Begin This Good Work

July 24, 2022

Title: Begin This Good Work

What is the first word that comes to mind when you hear the word WORK? I would guess you would say, “horrible” or “exhausting” or you might just plain out admit that your job stinks. Maybe it’s not even a word–maybe it’s a sigh, a pit in your stomach, the anxiety you feel before you begin the work week. Rarely when we talk about work do we acknowledge it as GOOD! What if the work you hate is exactly the work God has for you at this moment. Good work sees the redemptive side of every situation–even when it stinks.

Your response is how you are remembered. Whether you choose to step in or sit this one out–people will remember how you respond.

“If your dream doesn’t seem impossible, your dream is too small.” -Donald Miller

Success is not what you achieve, it’s what God accomplishes through you!

As you reflect on the message this week, use some of these questions to consider how God might be working within and around you.

Questions for Individuals/Connect Groups:

  • Read Nehemiah 2:17. As we are heading into Hope Week, what are ways that we can prioritize “beginning the Good Work”? How can we remember that we are not just building a home, cleaning a park, or giving away a pair of shoes, but are allowing God to enter into broken situations?

  • Brad talked about the idea that the work that we hate/despise/complain about is the exact work that God needs us in at this very moment. What “work” or “project” can you identify in your life that God might be using in spite of your frustration?

  • Often in our lives, we see the mess (we focus on the negatives) while God sees the redemptive side (he sees the potential). What are some ways that we can shift our thinking and see the redemptive side of our brokenness?

  • Sometimes, we view ourselves as too “important” for “janitorial” work. We think we are above doing small tasks. That prevents us from moving forward in our faith. Can you think of a time that your pride got in the way and hindered growth in your faith? What did you do (or not do) to move past that?

  • Questions for Families:

    • This week in kids’ church, you talked about how the Bible tells you that God loves you all the time. Can you think of a time that you felt loved by God?

    • The Bible is like a pair of binoculars – it helps us to see all the details of God and what it means to be a part of His family. It tells us how to handle all kinds of situations that we will face in our lives. Talk about a time that you didn’t know what to do and found the answer in the Bible. Ask your parents and siblings to share an example too!

    • We all like to watch videos on a phone, tablet, or the computer. But as much as we like to watch videos, we should like to read God’s word more! What are ways that you can remind yourself to spend time reading your Bible and learning more about God?

    • Sometimes reading the Bible can be overwhelming. What can you do when you get overwhelmed?

    Share this message!

    be hope worship

    SET LIST

    LIFE IS NOT MEANT TO BE LIVED ALONE. YOU WERE CREATED TO EXPERIENCE LIFE WITH OTHER PEOPLE.