REVIEW: Jacob took advantage of his brother.
- READ: 1 Peter 4:19 “So if you are suffering in a manner that pleases God, keep on doing what is right, and trust your lives to the God who created you, for he will never fail you.”
- DISCUSS: What are some of the ways you take things into your own hands rather than trusting in God’s plan?
REVIEW: Jacob deceived his father.
- READ: James 3:17 “But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere.”
- DISCUSS: Are there any parts of your life—past or present—that you feel need to be covered up or taken away to really move forward with God?
REVIEW: Jacob fought with God.
- READ: Romans 12:2 “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.”
- DISCUSS: What would it look like for you to fully trust God with your current life stage or season?
ASK:
What else did you get from this week's sermon? What actions or next steps can you take to apply it to your life?
PRAY:
For the Holy Spirit to reveal any selfish, deceptive, or independent tendencies in our hearts and the courage to surrender those places to him.