Message Notes on YouVersion

Adults

Meditation, Part Two

Leaders: Based on this week’s message and the invitation to memorize John 15, is there anything you want to share with your Circle? If so, start with that conversation.

1. Did you work on memorizing Psalm 23 last week? If so, what did you learn about memorization of Scripture? If not, why?2. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JOS.1.8" alt="Joshua 1:8" target="_blank">Joshua 1:8</a>. If you are honest, would you say you want the world’s definition of prosperity and success (fame, fortune, and followers) or the kingdom’s definition (becoming like Jesus and accomplishing God’s purpose for your life)? Why do you want that? How are you arranging your life toward that destination?3. Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/ROM.1.28" alt="Romans 1:28">Romans 1:28</a>. Repentance starts where excuses end. Where do you need to take responsibility for the excuses you’ve been making? How is God inviting you to repent on what it means to be held accountable?4. Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/jer.23.29" alt="Jeremiah 23:29" class="on">Jeremiah 23:29</a>.<ul><li>What could your life look like if you allowed God to start a fire within you and carry a hammer in your heart?</li><li>What are the things you are afraid may get burned up, purified, smashed, and rebuilt? </li></ul>

Meditate on Psalm 23 this week. You can <a href="https://valleycreek.plus/downloads/psalm-23-phone-wallpaper" alt="download digital resources on ValleyCreek+" class="on">download digital resources on ValleyCreek+</a>.

Pray for our church to have the courage to let God set a fire inside of us and carry a hammer in our hearts.

​In your attendance notes, please provide feedback to question #4.

DISCUSS & ENGAGE THE SCRIPTURES

SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES PRACTICE PLAN: MEDITATION

PRAY

LEADERS

Meditation, Part One

Kingdom meditation is thinking deeply about deep things; it's thinking with the Holy Spirit.1. Leaders go first: Share with your Circle what you have been learning as we have memorized 1 Corinthians 13 and John 15:1-17 in this season. Be honest and vulnerable.2. Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JOS.1.8" alt="Joshua 1:8">Joshua 1:8</a>. How does this verse cause you to rethink how we attain prosperity and success in life? Where do you need to repent?3. Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians+4%3A8&amp;version=TLB" alt="Philippians 4:8">Philippians 4:8</a> and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/ROM.12.1-2" alt="Romans 12:1-2">Romans 12:1-2</a>.<ul><li>Who or what are you allowing to lead your thought life?</li><li>How is that working out for you?</li></ul>4. Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/ROM.1.28" alt="Romans 1:28" class="on">Romans 1:28</a>. What does this verse mean to you and how do you want to rearrange your life according to it?

Memorize Psalm 23 this week. You can download <a href="https://valleycreek.plus/downloads/psalm-23-phone-wallpaper" alt="digital resources on ValleyCreek+" class="on">digital resources on ValleyCreek+</a>.

Pray that we would be a church who has a high value of God’s Word and choose to meditate on it and memorize it.

<ul><li>In your attendance notes, please provide feedback to question #1. </li></ul>

Baptism Celebration

This weekend, we celebrated 206 people saying "yes" to following Jesus as their Lord – to living as a disciple! This is what it looks like to be a movement of hope for the city and beyond.1. How are you practically contributing to the movement of hope for the city and beyond?&nbsp; 2.&nbsp;Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/2CO.5.17" alt="2 Corinthians 5:17">2 Corinthians 5:17</a> and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/MAT.28.19-20" alt="Matthew 28:19-20" class="on">Matthew 28:19-20</a>.<ul> <li>If you’ve been baptized, how are you living as if Jesus is Lord of your life?</li><li>If you have made a decision to follow Jesus but haven’t been baptized, what is keeping you from taking that next step?</li><li>Where are you learning to obey as you follow Jesus in your daily life (at home, work, school, etc)?</li></ul>

Pray that we would be a church who live a different way as we follow Jesus, one next step at a time.

<ul><li>In your attendance notes, please respond to question #2.</li><li>Serve the City is on April 20, and registration is open! Learn more and sign up at <a href="https://valleycreek.org/servethecity/" alt="valleycreek.org/servethecity" class="on">valleycreek.org/servethecity</a>. </li></ul>

YOUVERSION MESSAGE NOTES

Easter at Valley Creek 2024

<ol><li>This weekend was Easter! Did you just attend a service or did you come to meet with God? What’s the difference? If you met with God, how so? If not, why? </li><li>Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/1co.13.4-8" alt="1 Corinthians 13:4-8">1 Corinthians 13:4-8</a> and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/1jn.3.16" alt="1 John 3:16">1 John 3:16</a>. Do you believe you are loved? If so, how has that changed your life? If not, why do you struggle to believe it? </li><li>You are the most important preacher in your life. The message of the cross is either foolishness or the power and wisdom of God.<ol><li>What message do you preach to yourself every day?</li><li>What does the message of the cross mean to you? (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/1co.1.18" alt="1 Corinthians 1:18" class="on">1 Corinthians 1:18</a>)</li></ol></li></ol>

Pray for our upcoming baptism weekend on April 7.

Three out of the five songs this Easter were original Valley Creek Worship songs. Access the entire Easter experience at <a href="https://valleycreek.plus/videos/easter-at-valley-creek-2024" alt="valleycreek.plus" class="on">valleycreek.plus</a>.

<ul><li>Our last baptism class is Tuesday, April 2. If baptism is your next step, sign up at <a target="_blank" href="https://valleycreek.org/baptism" alt="valleycreek.org/baptism" class="on">valleycreek.org/baptism</a>.</li><li>In your attendance notes, please respond to question #3.​ </li></ul>

DID YOU KNOW

Easter

Preparing for Easter

<ol><li>This weekend, we spent time praying for our Easter experiences. What did you learn about prayer and yourself as we prayed? (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/act.4.31" alt="Acts 4:31">Acts 4:31</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/jer.29.7" alt="Jeremiah 29:7">Jeremiah 29:7</a>)</li><li>Our vision is to be a movement of hope for the city and beyond. What does this mean to you? How do you see yourself as a part of it? (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/mat.28.19-20" alt="Matthew 28:19-20">Matthew 28:19-20</a>)</li><li>One of the prayers you prayed was that you would be a hope carrier (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/mat.9.37-38" alt="Matthew 9:37-38">Matthew 9:37-38</a>). How will that practically play out in your life this week?</li><li>One of the prayers you prayed was that you would be anointed to serve. Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/1co.12.7,27" alt="1 Corinthians 12:7,27">1 Corinthians 12:7,27</a>. As a part of the body of Christ, how are you going to serve this weekend and the weekends to come?</li><li>Is your next step baptism? If so, find details and register today at <a target="_blank" href="http://valleycreek.org/baptism" alt="valleycreek.org/baptism">valleycreek.org/baptism</a>.</li></ol>

Prayer is both intimacy and authority. As we prepare to celebrate Easter together, pray that we would meet with God.

Easter service times can be found at <a target="_blank" href="http://valleycreek.org/easter" alt="valleycreek.org/easter" class="on">valleycreek.org/easter</a>.

Selah Experience (March 17)

<ol><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JHN.15.1-17.NIV" alt="John 15:1-17" class="on">John 15:1-17</a>. What is God showing you through His Word? </li><li>Every campus pastor shared what God is teaching them about living a different way. What did the Holy Spirit say to you during this message? </li><li>What is God teaching you about living a different way? (Your personal summary statement may be a good starting point.) </li></ol>

As a Circle, take time to pray the verse that stood out to you in John 15, or as you feel led.

<ul><li>All messages from A Different Way are on <a href="https://valleycreek.plus/" alt="ValleyCreek+">ValleyCreek+</a>.&nbsp;</li><li>Serve the City is this Saturday, March 23. If you’d like to invite your Circle or anyone to take a next step into serving, they can register at <a href="https://valleycreek.org/servethecity/" alt="valleycreek.org/servethecity" class="on">valleycreek.org/servethecity</a>.</li><li>Baptisms are coming up on April 7. If anyone in your Circle is ready for this next step, they can register for a class at <a href="https://valleycreek.org/baptism/" alt="valleycreek.org/baptism">valleycreek.org/baptism</a>.</li><li>Take attendance and add feedback on question #2 in the “notes” section, then send to “Leadership Only.” </li></ul>

Selah Experience (March 10)

Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/PSA.139.NIV" alt="Psalm 139" class="on">Psalm 139</a> together and discuss what God is showing you through His Word.

As a Circle, take time to pray the verse that stood out to you in Psalm 139 or as you feel led.

<ul><li>All messages from A Different Way are on <a href="https://valleycreek.plus/" alt="ValleyCreek+">ValleyCreek+</a> if you’d like to take one of these deeper in your Circle this week.</li><li>Baptisms are coming up on April 7. If anyone in your Circle is ready for this next step, they can register for a class at <a href="https://valleycreek.org/baptism/" alt="valleycreek.org/baptism" class="on">valleycreek.org/baptism</a>. </li></ul>

Scripture, Part Two

1. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/MRK.4.9" alt="Mark 4:9">Mark 4:9</a>, <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/116/MRK.4.24-25" alt="Mark 4:24-25 NLT">Mark 4:24-25 NLT</a>, and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/PRO.2.1-6" alt="Proverbs 2:1-6">Proverbs 2:1-6</a>. We may have a desire for God's Word, but we lack devotion to it. Which of these, desire or devotion, is God inviting you to lean into this week?2. If you have a heart to hear from God, here are four ways to engage His Word:<ul><li>Engage God’s Word from a Jesus-focused perspective. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JHN.1.1" alt="John 1:1">John 1:1</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/LUK.24.27,31-32" alt="Luke 24:27,31-32">Luke 24:27,31-32</a>. How does this challenge or inspire you to engage differently? </li><li>Engage God’s Word as a disciple. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/1SA.3.2,7,9" alt="1 Samuel 3:2,7,9">1 Samuel 3:2,7,9</a>, <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/HEB.4.12" alt="Hebrews 4:12">Hebrews 4:12</a>, <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/2TI.3.16-17" alt="2 Timothy 3:16-17">2 Timothy 3:16-17</a>, and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/ACT.2.37" alt="Acts 2:37">Acts 2:37</a>. Scripture is not information; it's transformation.<ul><li>How are you allowing God’s Word to teach, rebuke, correct, or train you?</li><li>When was the last time you were cut to the heart in Scripture or through a weekend message? </li></ul></li><li>Engage God’s Word with Him. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JHN.5.39-40" alt="John 5:39-40">John 5:39-40</a>, <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JHN.14.26" alt="John 14:26">John 14:26</a>, <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/LUK.10.39-40" alt="Luke 10:39-40">Luke 10:39-40</a>, and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/MAT.7.22-23" alt="Matthew 7:22-23">Matthew 7:22-23</a>. What do you need to change in order to stop reading the Bible and start meeting with God? </li><li>Engage God’s Word with a plan. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/PRO.8.34" alt="Proverbs 8:34">Proverbs 8:34</a>, <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/1JN.4.16" alt="1 John 4:16" class="on">1 John 4:16</a>.<ul><li>If you are training, what will you need to rearrange in your life to implement this week’s practice plan?</li><li>What is the Holy Spirit saying to you about engaging God’s Word as you believe that God is love, you are loved, and everything He says is loving? </li></ul></li></ul>

Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/PSA.119.NIV" alt="Psalm 119" class="on">Psalm 119</a> and engage with the <a href="https://valleycreek.plus/readingplan" alt="Valley Creek Reading Plan" class="on">Valley Creek Reading Plan</a> 5 times this week in a different way.

Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/ACT.2.37" alt="Acts 2:37" class="on">Acts 2:37</a> together, then pray that over the Valley Creek family.

<ul><li>Access A Different Way resources at <a href="https://valleycreek.org/a-different-way/" alt="valleycreek.org/adifferentway" class="on">valleycreek.org/adifferentway</a>.</li><li>Find out what’s happening at Valley Creek by going to <a href="https://valleycreek.org/connect/" alt="valleycreek.org/connect">valleycreek.org/connect</a>.</li><li>Take attendance and add feedback on question #2 in the “notes” section, then send to “Leadership Only.” </li></ul>

SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES PRACTICE PLAN: SCRIPTURE

Scripture, Part One

<ol><li>The Bible is God’s voice; it’s not a book. How does this change your perspective of engaging God’s Word? </li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/PSA.119.160" alt="Psalms 119:160">Psalms 119:160</a>. God’s Word shows us three things:<ol><li>What is true in a world full of lies. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/MAT.7.24-27" alt="Matthew 7:24-27">Matthew 7:24-27</a>. What is the Holy Spirit saying to you about your source of truth? What are some lies you’ve believed that have influenced your daily life?</li><li>What is possible in a world of impossibilities. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/ISA.55.8-9" alt="Isaiah 55:8-9">Isaiah 55:8-9</a>. In what areas of life have you resisted dreaming with God? Why do you think you’ve been resisting?</li><li>God's heart in a world without heart. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/MAT.12.34-35" alt="Matthew 12:34-35" class="on">Matthew 12:34-35</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JER.15.16" alt="Jeremiah 15:16">Jeremiah 15:16</a>. God’s heart is good, so His Word can only be good. What is your heart hungry for? </li></ol></li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/MAT.4.4" alt="Matthew 4:4" class="on">Matthew 4:4</a>. God’s Word is simply God speaking. His Word creates (<a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/116/GEN.1.3-4.NLT" alt="Genesis 1:3-4 NLT">Genesis 1:3-4 NLT</a>), sustains (<a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/HEB.1.3" alt="Hebrews 1:3" class="on">Hebrews 1:3</a>), and redeems (<a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/REV.19.11,15" alt="Revelation 19:11,15" class="on">Revelation 19:11,15</a>) all things. How do you see Him creating, sustaining, and redeeming your life? </li></ol>

Engage with the Valley Creek Reading plan 5 times this week. You can find the Reading Plan on <a href="https://valleycreek.plus/readingplan" alt="valleycreek.plus." class="on">valleycreek.plus.</a> How will you implement this plan?

God, please give us a hunger for Your Word. May we be a people who can say, “It is written,” in Jesus’ name.

<ul><li>Access A Different Way, Season 1 resources at <a href="https://valleycreek.org/a-different-way/" alt="valleycreek.org/adifferentway">valleycreek.org/adifferentway</a>.</li><li>Find out what’s happening at Valley Creek by going to <a href="https://valleycreek.org/connect/" alt="valleycreek.org/connect" class="on">valleycreek.org/connect</a>.</li><li>Take attendance and add feedback on question #2 in the “notes” section, then send to “Leadership Only.” </li></ul>

SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES PRACTICE PLAN: SCRIPTURES

Open The Door

<ol><li>What did God show you through reading and thinking about the different translations of <a href="https://www.bible.com/events/49213810" alt="Matthew 11:28-30">Matthew 11:28-30</a>? </li><li>What did you discover as you reflected on your notes? (Examples: areas where you’ve seen growth, things you may have forgotten about, something God highlighted that you haven’t implemented yet). If you are newer to Valley Creek and didn’t have notes to look back on, what did you discover as you reflected on who you are becoming and who you want to become? </li><li>Share your summary statement of this season that you wrote down during our reflection time. </li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/REV.3.20" alt="Revelation 3:20" class="on">Revelation 3:20</a>. What door(s) is God knocking on and inviting you to let Him in? </li></ol>

Which of these prayers do you need to pray for yourself this week?<ul> <li>Jesus, help me to be open to a different way.</li><li>Jesus, give me a desire to be Your disciple.</li><li>Jesus, help me have the intent to change.</li><li>Jesus, help me be open to Your changing grace.</li></ul>​As you wrap up Circle, take time to individually pray your prayer out loud, then have someone close out the prayer time praying all four over our church family in Jesus’ name.

<ul><li>Access resources on living a different way at <a href="https://valleycreek.org/a-different-way/" alt="valleycreek.org/adifferentway" class="on">valleycreek.org/adifferentway</a>.</li><li>This week, we start a new book of the Bible in our reading plan. Encourage your Circle to jump in!</li><li>Take attendance and add feedback on question #2 in the “notes” section, then send to “leadership only.” </li></ul>

How Do I Change?

<div class="se-component se-image-container __se__float-none" contenteditable="false"><figure style="margin: 0px; width: 360px;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/valley-creek-church/image/upload/v1707676079/VCCResources/20240211-Life_Change_Graphic-Circle_Guide_White.png" alt="" data-rotate="" data-proportion="true" data-rotatex="" data-rotatey="" data-size="360px,360px" data-align="none" data-file-name="20240211-Life_Change_Graphic-Circle_Guide_White.png" data-file-size="0" data-origin="," style="width: 360px; height: 360px;" origin-size="1080,1080" data-image-link="" data-index="0"> </figure></div>1. Spiritual formation is the process of being formed into the image of Christ to become a person of love. The Holy Spirit forms us through the ways above. What is the Holy Spirit showing you about your spiritual formation?<ul> <li>God’s Word – <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/2TI.3.16-17" alt="2 Timothy 3:16-17">2 Timothy 3:16-17</a>​</li><li>Godly Relationships – <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/EPH.4.15-16" alt="Ephesians 4:15-16">Ephesians 4:15-16</a>​</li><li>Trials – <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JAS.1.2-4" alt="James 1:2-4">James 1:2-4</a>, <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/1PE.1.6-7" alt="1 Peter 1:6-7">1 Peter 1:6-7</a>, <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/ROM.8.28-29" alt="Romans 8:28-29">Romans 8:28-29</a>​</li><li>Spiritual Practices – <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/COL.3.9-10" alt="Colossians 3:9-10">Colossians 3:9-10</a>​</li><li>Time – <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/GAL.6.9" alt="Galatians 6:9">Galatians 6:9</a>​</li></ul>2. A spiritual practice is doing what I can do now to open myself up to God’s grace. What (if any) spiritual practice is the Holy Spirit highlighting for you to consider practicing? (See below)Remember, spiritual practices:<ul> <li>are not a measure of maturity</li><li>are an invitation, not an obligation</li><li>are not one-size-fits-all</li><li>are done with God, not for God</li><li>are done in the secret place&nbsp;</li></ul><div class="se-component se-image-container __se__float-none" contenteditable="false"><figure style="margin: 0px; width: 360px;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/valley-creek-church/image/upload/v1707676092/VCCResources/20240211-Spiritual_Practices_Graphic-Circle_Guide_White.png" alt="" data-rotate="" data-proportion="true" data-rotatex="" data-rotatey="" data-size="360px,451px" data-align="none" data-file-name="20240211-Spiritual_Practices_Graphic-Circle_Guide_White.png" data-file-size="0" data-origin="," style="width: 360px; height: 451px;" origin-size="1080,1350" data-image-link="" data-index="1"></figure></div>3. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/1TI.4.7-8" alt="1 Timothy 4:7-8" class="on">1 Timothy 4:7-8</a>. The spirit of the world has a plan to form us into it’s image. But we can intentionally plan to train ourselves to be godly. What would it look like for you to have a training plan for godliness in your life?

Pray together: Jesus, help me be open to Your changing grace.

<ul><li>Serve the City registration is open, <a href="https://valleycreek.org/servethecity" alt="sign up here" class="on">sign up here</a> to serve on February 17.</li><li>Visit <a href="https://valleycreek.plus/adults" alt="valleycreek.plus">valleycreek.plus</a> to rewatch the message and access all resources.</li><li>Grab a journal and access the reading plan at <a href="https://valleycreek.org/a-different-way/" alt="valleycreek.org/adifferentway" class="on">valleycreek.org/adifferentway</a>.</li><li>As you take attendance, please add notes on question #1. </li></ul>

Can I Actually Change?

Start with a “get to know you” conversation. Ask everyone to introduce themselves, share how they got connected at Valley Creek, and one fun fact about themselves.

1. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/ROM.7.15,18-20,22-24" alt="Romans 7:15, 18-20, 22-24">Romans 7:15, 18-20, 22-24</a>. What ruts (patterns or habits) are so deeply formed in you that you naturally and effortlessly go the world's way? How are you acknowledging it and allowing Jesus to train you as a disciple (<a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/1TI.4.7-8" alt="1 Timothy 4:7-8">1 Timothy 4:7-8</a>)?2. We can become the person God created us to be when we have a vision (a preferred future for our life; see <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/MAT.4.19" alt="Matthew 4:19" class="on">Matthew 4:19</a>), intent (earnest, eager, devoted, and committed to see a new reality), and means (next steps).<ul><li>Who do you want to become (your vision)?</li><li>What’s your intent?</li><li>What next steps (means) is God inviting you to take as you train to live a different way? </li></ul>3. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/PHP.2.12-13" alt="Philippians 2:12-13">Philippians 2:12-13</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/MAT.5.6" alt="Matthew 5:6" class="on">Matthew 5:6</a>. Humility and hunger lead to change. What are you hungry and thirsty for? What vision has captivated your life? What are you pursuing?

Pray together: Jesus, help me have the intent to change.

<ul><li>Visit <a href="https://valleycreek.plus/adults" alt="valleycreek.plus">valleycreek.plus</a> to rewatch the message and access all resources.</li><li>Grab a journal and access the reading plan at <a href="https://valleycreek.org/a-different-way/" alt="valleycreek.org/adifferentway" class="on">valleycreek.org/adifferentway</a>.</li><li>As you take attendance, please add notes on question #2. </li></ul>

NEW CIRCLES

What Is A Disciple Again?

1. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/LUK.6.40" alt="Luke 6:40">Luke 6:40</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/MRK.8.34-35" alt="Mark 8:34-35">Mark 8:34-35</a>. A disciple is a student, a learner, a follower; one who becomes like the one they follow. To be a disciple of Jesus, we have to count the cost. What are some ways He’s inviting you to die to yourself and follow Him?2. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JHN.1.38-39" alt="John 1:38-39">John 1:38-39</a>. If being a disciple of Jesus isn’t something you are interested in today, what is it that you want from God? Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/HAG.1.5-7" alt="Haggai 1:5-7" class="on">Haggai 1:5-7</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JHN.14.6" alt="John 14:6">John 14:6</a>. Jesus invites us to follow Him, to live a different way, as a new creation in Christ. As you consider your daily life, are you more like Peter in <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/MAT.4.19-20" alt="Matthew 4:19-20">Matthew 4:19-20</a>, who immediately follows Jesus? Or more like the rich young ruler in <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/MRK.10.21-22" alt="Mark 10:21-22">Mark 10:21-22</a>? How do you know?3. Which of The Three Circles is God inviting you to lean into as you learn to walk a different way?<div class="se-component se-image-container __se__float-none" contenteditable="false"><figure style="margin: 0px;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/valley-creek-church/image/upload/v1706466533/VCCResources/20240128-The_Three_Circles_Jesus-Graphic.png" alt="" data-rotate="" data-proportion="true" data-rotatex="" data-rotatey="" data-size="360px,203px" data-align="none" data-file-name="20240128-The_Three_Circles_Jesus-Graphic.png" data-file-size="0" origin-size="1920,1080" data-origin="," style="width: 360px; height: 203px;" data-index="0"></figure></div>4. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/MAT.4.19" alt="Matthew 4:19">Matthew 4:19</a>, <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JHN.8.31" alt="John 8:31">John 8:31</a>, and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JHN.13.34-35" alt="John 13:34-35" class="on">John 13:34-35</a>. Obedience and love are both the intent and result of being a disciple of Jesus.&nbsp;<ul><li>What step of obedience is God inviting you to take this week?</li><li>Love is God’s good will toward you. Where is God inviting you to receive His love in your life? </li></ul>

Pray together: Jesus, give me a desire to be Your disciple.

<ul><li>To register for Join the Movement visit <a href="https://valleycreek.org/jointhemovement/" alt="valleycreek.org/jointhemovement" class="on">valleycreek.org/jointhemovement</a>.</li><li>Visit <a href="https://valleycreek.plus/adults" alt="valleycreek.plus">valleycreek.plus</a> to rewatch the message and access all resources.</li><li>Grab a journal and access the reading plan at <a href="https://valleycreek.org/a-different-way/" alt="valleycreek.org/adifferentway">valleycreek.org/adifferentway</a>.</li><li>As you take attendance, please add notes on question #2. </li></ul>

Can I Really Do What Jesus Did?

1. We all join a Circle for different reasons. As we kickoff the new series, A Different Way, let’s start this semester by answering this question: What are you hoping for in Circle this semester?2. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/MRK.8.34-35" alt="Mark 8:34-35" class="on">Mark 8:34-35</a>. If we want to do the things Jesus did, we have to first do the things that Jesus did. Look at the things Jesus did in daily life. We all desire these things in some way. How are you trying to access them?<div class="se-component se-image-container __se__float-none" contenteditable="false"><figure style="margin: 0px;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/valley-creek-church/image/upload/v1705862017/VCCResources/20240121-Icons-Circle_Guide.png" alt="" data-rotate="" data-proportion="true" data-rotatex="" data-rotatey="" data-size="360px,203px" data-align="none" data-file-name="20240121-Icons-Circle_Guide.png" data-file-size="0" origin-size="1920,1080" data-origin="," style="width: 360px; height: 203px;" data-index="0"></figure></div>3. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/MAT.11.28-30" alt="Matthew 11:28-30">Matthew 11:28-30</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/MAT.6.33" alt="Matthew 6:33">Matthew 6:33</a>. Our lives are all centered around something or someone. How is your lifestyle shaping who you're becoming? 4. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/1TI.4.7-8" alt="1 Timothy 4:7-8">1 Timothy 4:7-8</a>. We can’t do on-the-spot what we haven’t practiced behind-the-scenes. What is the Holy Spirit saying to you about living a different way?

Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/PSA.25.4" alt="Psalms 25:4" class="on">Psalms 25:4</a>.&nbsp;<ul><li>Invitation is a way of Jesus. Who is one person you can invite to our Circle?</li><li>Pray together: Jesus, help me to be open to a different way. </li></ul>

<ul><li>Visit <a href="https://valleycreek.plus/adults" alt="valleycreek.plus">valleycreek.plus</a>&nbsp;to rewatch the message and access all resources.</li><li>Grab a journal and access the reading plan (starts January 22) at <a href="https://valleycreek.org/a-different-way/" alt="valleycreek.org/adifferentway">valleycreek.org/adifferentway</a>.</li><li>As you take attendance, please add notes on question #3. </li></ul>

How to Have the Best 2024

Jason Hillier, Flower Mound Campus Pastor

1. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/MRK.3.34" alt="Mark 3:34" target="_blank">Mark 3:34</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/ACT.2.42" alt="Acts 2:42" target="_blank">Acts 2:42</a>. If you are reading this question, it’s because you’ve said “yes” to taking a next step into a Circle at Valley Creek. What would it look like for you to choose to be devoted to this Circle in 2024?&nbsp;2. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/PSA.92.12-13" alt="Psalms 92:12-13" target="_blank">Psalms 92:12-13</a>. <a href="https://valleycreek.org/jointhemovement/" alt="Join the Movement" target="_blank">Join the Movement</a> is the best next step you can take to be planted at Valley Creek. How will you choose to be planted at Valley Creek this year?&nbsp;3. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JER.15.16" alt="Jeremiah 15:16" target="_blank">Jeremiah 15:16</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/PSA.1.1-3" alt="Psalms 1:1-3" target="_blank">Psalms 1:1-3</a>. Our <a href="https://valleycreek.plus/readingplan" alt="Reading Plan" target="_blank">Reading Plan</a> starts in one week on January 22. What is the Holy Spirit saying to you as you plan and prepare to engage with His Word?&nbsp;4. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/EPH.5.26-27" alt="Ephesians 5:26-27" target="_blank" class="on">Ephesians 5:26-27</a>. God wants to move in your life through His Word this year.<ul><li>What are you hoping for in your life, your family, your work, your school, and our church in 2024?&nbsp;</li><li>Everything is possible! How different would your year look if, one day at a time, you chose by faith to engage God's Word through the Reading Plan and meditation?</li></ul>

Jesus, thank You for Your Word and Your promise to transform us through it. Lord, give us a hunger for Your Word this year!

<ul><li>Our semester officially launches on January 21, and we’ll begin taking attendance and asking for feedback on a specific question.&nbsp;</li><li>Next Steps<ul><li>Join A Circle – <a href="https://valleycreek.org/circles/" alt="valleycreek.org/circles" target="_blank">valleycreek.org/circles</a>​</li><li>Join the Movement – <a href="https://valleycreek.org/jointhemovement/" alt="valleycreek.org/jointhemovement" target="_blank">valleycreek.org/jointhemovement</a>​</li><li>Connect With Us:<ul><li>​<a target="_blank" href="sms:55888?&amp;body=vcc" alt="Text “VCC” to 55888">Text “VCC” to 55888</a>​</li><li>​<a href="https://www.instagram.com/valleycreek/" alt="Instagram" target="_blank">Instagram</a>​</li><li>​<a href="https://www.facebook.com/valleycreek" alt="Facebook" target="_blank">Facebook</a>​</li><li>​<a href="https://www.youtube.com/valleycreekonline" alt="YouTube" target="_blank" class="on">YouTube</a>​</li></ul></li><li>2024 Bible Reading Plan – <a href="https://valleycreek.plus/readingplan" alt="valleycreek.plus/readingplan" target="_blank">valleycreek.plus/readingplan</a>​ </li></ul></li></ul>

COMMUNICATOR

RE Day One: Righteousness

<ol><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/psa.136.1" alt="Psalms 136:1" class="on">Psalms 136:1</a>. What do you need to celebrate from 2023? </li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/116/2CO.3.17.NLT" alt="2 Corinthians 3:17 NLT">2 Corinthians 3:17 NLT</a>. What do you need to leave behind in 2023?&nbsp; </li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/mat.7.7-8" alt="Matthew 7:7-8">Matthew 7:7-8</a>. What do you want to ask God for (dreams, desires, needs, wants) for 2024? </li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/rom.14.17" alt="Romans 14:17">Romans 14:17</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/zep.3.17" alt="Zephaniah 3:17">Zephaniah 3:17</a>. What is the Holy Spirit showing you about your righteousness in God through this interlude (selah)? </li></ol>

Jesus, thank You for a time to pause and reflect on Your goodness. We pray for a strong relationship with You this year.

<ul><li>Invite your Circle to RE Days 2 and 3. Details are at <a href="https://valleycreek.org/re-2024/" alt="valleycreek.org/re" class="on">valleycreek.org/re</a>.</li><li>Our semester officially launches on January 21 and we’ll begin taking attendance and asking for feedback on a specific question. </li></ul>

A Simple Invitation

This week’s challenge is to invite someone to a Christmas service this week.

Justin Nall, Denton Campus Pastor

<ol><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JHN.20.21" alt="John 20:21">John 20:21</a>. A simple invitation can change everything. Who are you inviting to a Christmas service at Valley Creek? </li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/ACT.4.20" alt="Acts 4:20" class="on">Acts 4:20</a>. What are some barriers you’ve experienced to inviting others to church? How will you break past those barriers this week? </li><li>&nbsp;Which of the stories shared this weekend impacted you the most and why? What’s your story of how you came to be part of the Valley Creek family? </li></ol>

Take time to specifically pray for every person you and your Circle are inviting to a Christmas service. Pray for them to have an encounter with Jesus this Christmas! Then, wrap up your prayer time by praying over all of Valley Creek's Christmas services. May everyone who is invited come and see Jesus, so they can decide to come and follow Him.

<ul><li>To find all Christmas service times and resources visit <a href="https://valleycreek.org/Christmas/" alt="valleycreek.org/Christmas" class="on">valleycreek.org/Christmas</a>.</li><li>Refer to your email for recent details on wrapping up the Circle semester and our Spring semester launch date. If you have any questions, reach out to your staff leader. </li></ul>

THE SOMEONE ELSE CHALLENGE

See The Good

This week’s challenge is to celebrate someone.

Justin Lanham, Flower Mound Student Director

Celebrating is paying attention and calling attention to the good in someone else.&nbsp;<ol><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/ZEP.3.17" alt="Zephaniah 3:17">Zephaniah 3:17</a>. What is the Holy Spirit saying to you about this verse? </li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/events/49180047" alt="Luke 6:45 BSB">Luke 6:45 BSB</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/HEB.10.24" alt="Hebrews 10:24" class="on">Hebrews 10:24</a>. In what areas of life are you more inclined to celebrate or critique others? What do you think your invitation is to grow in celebrating others? </li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/PRO.18.20-21" alt="Proverbs 18:20-21" class="on">Proverbs 18:20-21</a>. We replicate what we celebrate. What are some good things you want to see replicated in your home, at school, or at work? How can you start celebrating that very thing this week? </li></ol>

God, thank You for Your faithfulness to celebrate and love us. May we receive and release the kingdom through celebration everywhere we go.

<ul><li>To find all Christmas service times and resources visit <a href="https://valleycreek.org/christmas/" alt="valleycreek.org/Christmas" class="on">valleycreek.org/Christmas</a>.</li><li>To learn more about the Young Adult Summer Internship, visit <a href="https://valleycreek.org/youngadults/internship/" alt="valleycreek.org/youngadults">valleycreek.org/youngadults</a>.</li><li>When you submit attendance for your Circle, please share insight from your conversation around question #3 in the notes section.&nbsp; </li></ul>

COMMUNICATOR	

 PRAY

 LEADERS

A Simple Question

This week’s challenge is to ask someone else a meaningful question.

Becca Reynolds, Executive Pastor &amp; Teaching Team

1. Read&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/PRO.20.5" alt="Proverbs 20:5" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 76, 255); text-decoration: none; -webkit-user-drag: none; overflow: visible; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit;">Proverbs 20:5</a>&nbsp;together. Take a moment to reflect and realize that every time you come to a Circle and go through questions in this Circle Guide, there is an invitation from the Lord for you to discover something about yourself and about Him.<ul> <li>What have you been discovering about yourself and God through Circle?</li></ul>2. Read&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JHN.5.6-9" alt="John 5:6-9" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 76, 255); text-decoration: none; -webkit-user-drag: none; overflow: visible; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit;">John 5:6-9</a>. Jesus asks questions to help us discover something about ourselves and about Him. What are some barriers that keep you from asking questions? What’s one step you plan to take to remove that barrier this week? 3. Read&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/ACT.3.11-12" alt="Acts 3:11-12" );="" text-decoration:="" none;="" -webkit-user-drag:="" overflow:="" visible;="" font-family:="" inherit;="" font-size:="" inherit;"="">Acts 3:11-12</a>. What question(s) is Jesus asking you? How will you respond? 4. A simple invitation can change someone’s life. What is your invitation story? Who can you invite to Christmas at Valley Creek?

Jesus, thank You for asking us questions that lead to more of a discovery of who You say we are and who You are. We pray for You to give us eyes to see people to ask meaningful questions to. And, Jesus, help us to slow down and listen to them in the same way You listen to us.

<ul><li>Take a moment in your Circle to celebrate participation in the Reading Plan together.</li><li>To learn more about the Young Adult Summer Internship, visit <a href="https://valleycreek.org/youngadults" alt="valleycreek.org/youngadults" class="on">valleycreek.org/youngadults</a>.</li><li>When you submit attendance for your Circle, please share insight from your conversation around question #1 in the notes section. </li></ul>

COMMUNICATORS	

Live Thanks 2023

This week’s challenge is to express gratitude to someone who is not in your immediate circle of friends or family.

Denton Campus: Pastor Justin Nall Flower Mound Campus &amp; Online Campus: Pastor Jason Hillier Gainesville Campus: Pastor Brian Schoenhofer Lewisville Campus: Pastor Rob Shields

<ol><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/1TH.5.16-18" alt="1 Thessalonians 5:16-18">1 Thessalonians 5:16-18</a>. We live with a spirit of gratitude. Gratitude is the normal response to receiving God’s grace. Where in your life is gratitude the normal response, and where is not? How so? </li><li>Gratitude is humility in our hearts (<a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/jas.1.17" alt="James 1:17">James 1:17</a>), a posture of our minds (<a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/116/ROM.1.21" alt="Romans 1:21 NLT">Romans 1:21 NLT</a>), and is expressed (<a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/PSA.107.1" alt="Psalm 107:1">Psalm 107:1</a>). During service, we practiced expressing gratitude, then we surrendered our gratitude to God. What did God show you through this experience? </li><li>We are four weeks into The Someone Else Challenge! Take a moment to read the story of the Good Samaritan in <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/LUK.10.24-34" alt="Luke 10:25-34" target="_blank" class="on">Luke 10:25-34</a>. How have you seen God work in your life through this series and the weekly Someone Else challenges? </li></ol>

God, we praise You and we say thank You for an abundant life. As we receive Your gift of grace in our lives, may we express our gratitude to You and those around us.

<ul><li>Join the Movement is for anyone who's ready to get started at Valley Creek. Invite anyone in your Circle who hasn’t gone to register at <a href="https://valleycreek.org/jointhemovement/" alt="valleycreek.org/jointhemovement">valleycreek.org/jointhemovement</a>.</li><li>To learn more about the Young Adult Summer Internship, visit <a href="https://valleycreek.org/youngadults/internship/" alt="valleycreek.org/youngadults" class="on">valleycreek.org/youngadults</a>.</li><li>When you submit attendance for your Circle, please share insight from your conversation around question #2 in the notes section. </li></ul>

The Way of Gratitude

Dawson Shields, Denton Students Director Kennedy Hughes, Central Worship Coordinator Caleb Chapple, Flower Mound Teams Director

<ol><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/1TH.5.18" alt="1 Thessalonians 5:18">1 Thessalonians 5:18</a>. It’s God’s will for us to give thanks in all things, both wants and needs. When was the last time you thanked God for something you needed but didn’t really want (encouragement, correction, challenge)? </li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/LUK.17.15-17" alt="Luke 17:15-17">Luke 17:15-17</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/PHP.4.19" alt="Philippians 4:19">Philippians 4:19</a>. Where in your life are you seeing what isn’t instead of what is? How do you think Jesus is inviting you to move forward in the goodness He has for you? </li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/PHM.1.4-5" alt="Philemon 1:4-5" class="on">Philemon 1:4-5</a>. Gratitude is expressed, genuine, and specific. How will you respond to the goodness of God in your life this week? </li></ol>

God, as a church we are grateful to You for our next generation and their willingness to follow God. Thank You that we get to be a family that is raising up generations of hope carriers. God, please continue to guide, protect, and raise up the next generation. Help us see Your goodness in our lives and respond with gratitude in all things.

<ul><li>To learn more about the Young Adult Summer Internship, visit <a href="https://valleycreek.org/youngadults/internship/" alt="valleycreek.org/youngadults" class="on">valleycreek.org/youngadults</a>.</li><li>When you submit attendance for your Circle, please share insight from your conversation around question #2 in the notes section.&nbsp; </li></ul>

COMMUNICATORS

Two Silver Coins

This week’s challenge is to be generous to someone by participating in Hope on the Move: Groceries. What’s your plan to participate?

1. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/116/LUK.10.35" alt="Luke 10:35 NLT">Luke 10:35 NLT</a>. Generosity is a key to getting outside of ourselves; it’s a mark of living as a disciple of Jesus.<ul><li>Where in life are you generous with finances? (i.e. income, allowance, possessions, talents and abilities)</li><li>How are you going to remove any obstacle that gets in the way of your generosity?</li></ul>2. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/116/ACT.20.35" alt="Acts 20:35 NLT">Acts 20:35 NLT</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/HEB.13.5" alt="Hebrews 13:5">Hebrews 13:5</a>. God’s security is greater than anything the world provides! We don’t own the resources He gives us – we are stewards of them.&nbsp;<ul><li>What would it look like for you to find security in God as you steward what He’s given you?</li><li>What would your life look like if you believed that it is more blessed to give than to receive?</li></ul>3. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/116/ISA.32.8" alt="Isaiah 32:8 NLT">Isaiah 32:8 NLT</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/DEU.15.10" alt="Deuteronomy 15:10" class="on">Deuteronomy 15:10</a>. God has a plan for our generosity. Tithing is a vertical return of our finances. Generosity is horizontal giving of our finances. In which of these areas is God inviting you to move forward by faith? How will you seek His vision for your finances this week?

God, may we be generous people in Jesus’ name.

<ul><li>Hope on the Move: Groceries launches this week. Visit <a href="https://valleycreek.org/groceries/" alt="valleycreek.org/groceries" class="on">valleycreek.org/groceries</a> to sign up to serve or learn all the ways you can participate.</li><li>To learn more about the Young Adult Summer Internship, visit <a href="https://valleycreek.org/youngadults/" alt="valleycreek.org/youngadults" class="on">valleycreek.org/youngadults</a>.</li><li>When you submit attendance for your Circle, please share insight from your conversation around question #3 in the notes section. </li></ul>

Pace of Grace

<ol><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/LUK.10.25-34" alt="Luke 10:25-34">Luke 10:25-34</a>. What aspect of The Good Samaritan story stood out to you the most and why? </li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/EPH.4.7" alt="Ephesians 4:7">Ephesians 4:7</a>. Life-giving people receive and release the life of Jesus wherever they go. Busyness can be an obstacle that prevents us from living out this value. What are some adjustments you can make in your schedule, calendar, or even your thinking to help you align your life with this kingdom value? </li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/116/LUK.10.33-34" alt="Luke 10:33-34 NLT" class="on">Luke 10:33-34 NLT</a>. How will you slow down this week and prepare for the week ahead? If God has already put someone on your heart to reach out to over the next few weeks, how will you be intentional about walking in obedience to His prompting? </li></ol>

<ul><li>From now through December, there will be one challenge per week for us to practice getting outside of ourselves.</li><li>Here are some questions to help you to identify the “someone else’s” in your life: Who is someone you see everyday? Who is someone you sit next to at work or school? Who is someone you pray for regularly? Who is someone you serve with? Who is someone you know needs hope? Who is someone who carries hope to you? Who is someone you could invite to church next week? Who is someone you are grateful for? </li></ul>

God, we want to awaken to what You want to do in us and through us as we get outside of ourselves.

<ul><li>Hope on the Move: Groceries launches this week. Visit <a href="https://valleycreek.org/groceries/" alt="valleycreek.org/groceries">valleycreek.org/groceries</a> to sign up to serve or learn all the ways you can participate.</li><li>To learn more about the Young Adult Summer Internship, visit <a href="https://valleycreek.org/youngadults/internship/" alt="valleycreek.org/youngadults" class="on">valleycreek.org/youngadults</a>.</li><li>When you submit attendance for your Circle, please share insight from your conversation around question #3 in the notes section. </li></ul>

Hope Carrier Initiative Rewind: Garden City

<ol><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/8/GEN.1.28" alt="Genesis 1:28 AMPC" class="on">Genesis 1:28 AMPC</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/COL.3.17" alt="Colossians 3:17">Colossians 3:17</a>. God has placed you in multiple gardens (areas of life). How are you cultivating those through your words and actions? Where are you releasing God's kingdom, or where may you be releasing worldliness?<ol><li>For those of you who are hearing this message for a second time, what has changed in your work since then? </li></ol></li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/GEN.1.26" alt="Genesis 1:26">Genesis 1:26</a>. In what ways, does “work” (job, school, family, social media) rule over you? What would it look like for you to take authority over it and live God’s created purpose for your life? </li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/gen.3.5" alt="Genesis 3:5">Genesis 3:5</a>. Eve tried to get from the world what she already had in God. Where are you looking for purpose (meaning, status, freedom of time, etc.) in the world instead of walking out God’s created purpose for your life? </li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/ROM.5.17" alt="Romans 5:17">Romans 5:17</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/REV.21.1-3" alt="Revelation 21:1-3">Revelation 21:1-3</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/REV.22.5" alt="22:5">22:5</a>. We have so much more in Jesus than we lost in Adam. Our work is worship, will be rewarded, participates in the Garden City, and is practice for eternity. How does this help shape your perspective of the work God has entrusted to you?</li></ol>

Thank You, Jesus, for blessing us with a purpose. May we let You shape our view of work, and the truth that we were created to work with You.

<ul><li>Visit <a href="https://hopecarrier.com/" alt="hopecarrier.com" class="on">hopecarrier.com</a> for more resources or to purchase hope carrier gear.</li><li>To learn more about the Young Adult Summer Internship, visit <a href="https://valleycreek.org/youngadults/internship/" alt="valleycreek.org/youngadults">valleycreek.org/youngadults</a>.​ </li><li>When you submit attendance for your Circle, please share insight from your conversation around question number 2 in the notes section. </li></ul>

Hope Carrier Initiative Rewind: Created For More

<ol><li>As a Circle, grab your phone or mobile device and go to <a href="https://valleycreek.plus/" alt="valleycreek.plus">valleycreek.plus</a>. Use this <a href="https://res.cloudinary.com/valley-creek-church/video/upload/v1697980814/VCCResources/Save%20Valley%20Creek%20Plus.mp4" alt="how-to video" class="on">how-to video</a> to add ValleyCreek+ to your phone’s home screen. This is where you can find all the Hope Carrier Initiative messages and lots more resources to help you grow on your journey with Jesus. </li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JAS.1.22-26.NIV" alt="James 1:22-26">James 1:22-26</a>. For those of you who have heard this message before (January 2023), how has your life changed? If this was your first time hearing it, how will you apply it to your life? </li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/ACT.17.26" alt="Acts 17:26">Acts 17:26</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JER.1.5" alt="Jeremiah 1:5">Jeremiah 1:5</a>. You were created and called for so much more. Where has God called you to be a hope carrier? How are you reflecting the kingdom of God with your words and actions in those spaces? If we drew a line and on one end was “good American church” (consumerism) and at the other end was “kingdom come” (meeting with God), which end would you be closer to? How do you know? </li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JHN.4.28-30,39,42" alt="John 4:28-30, 39, 42">John 4:28-30, 39, 42</a>. The kingdom within you will become the kingdom around you. To the degree you are surrendered to the lordship of Jesus is the degree to which you can change your world. Where is the Holy Spirit inviting you to submit and surrender to the lordship of Jesus? </li></ol>

Jesus, thank You for bringing us hope. May we live as disciples, as hope carriers, changing our world in Your name!

<ul><li>Visit <a href="https://hopecarrier.com/" alt="hopecarrier.com" class="on">hopecarrier.com</a> for more resources or to purchase hope carrier gear. </li></ul>

Baptism Weekend

<ol><li>Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/mat.28.18-20" alt="Matthew 28:18-20" class="on">Matthew 28:18-20</a><ol><li>What inspired you about baptisms?</li><li>What is God saying to you?</li></ol></li><li>What next step is God inviting you to take and how will you move forward by faith?</li><li>Who are you discipling and who is discipling you?</li><li>Who is one person you can invite to this Circle?</li></ol>

Jesus, thank You for Your resurrection life! Thank You for salvation that leads us to follow You into the waters of Baptism. We pray that we will live as disciples of You as we disciple others.

Be Still & Know

1. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/PSA.46.10" alt="Psalms 46:10">Psalms 46:10</a>. When we rest in God, we can find the rest of God.&nbsp; <ul><li>Describe your experience of being still and knowing that He is God as we practiced our faith for five minutes during service. </li></ul>2. In the Bible, when people saw God, they fell like dead men to the ground. There were three primary ways they moved in response to seeing God: <ul><li>Immediate repentance and personal holiness</li><li>Immediate obedience</li><li>Worship</li></ul>As we’ve gone through this series, how have you been responding? Where have you had a sense of humility, brokenness, conviction, or hunger and thirst for more of God? How is that changing how you think, act, and live? 3. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/NUM.6.24-27" alt="Numbers 6:24-27" class="on">Numbers 6:24-27</a>. When we believe we carry the name of God, and therefore all the realities of God, our lives should be very different. What’s getting in the way of you living a life worthy of His name? 4. When was the last time you took a defined next step? What’s the next one God is inviting you to take?

God, thank You for who You are, and that we get to know You. Holy Spirit, we ask that You stir up within the Valley Creek family personal holiness, a sense of repentance and confession, a desire for obedience, and a desire to worship You with our lives. May we be a people who respond in a way that is worthy of Your goodness. We pray for everyone getting baptized this weekend to stay encouraged and full of faith this week, thank You for resurrection life in Jesus’ name. Amen.

<ul><li>All YHWH messages are on <a href="https://valleycreek.plus/series/yhwh" alt="ValleyCreek+" class="on">ValleyCreek+</a> as resources to go back and revisit, along with many other resources to help people on their journey with Jesus. </li></ul>

God Is Good, Part Two

Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/exo.34.6-7" alt="Exodus 34:6-7" class="on">Exodus 34:6-7</a>.<ol><li>God defines His goodness and what His character and nature look like. As we broke down this passage, what did the Holy Spirit highlight to you about God’s goodness? </li><li>A low view of grace leads to a low view of sin, then a low view of the law, and ultimately, a low view of God. Where is the Holy Spirit leading you to confess, repent, and see the circumstances of your life with a high view of God, His grace, and His goodness? </li><li>God’s glory (goodness) radiated from Moses’ face for others to see. What would the people closest to you say your countenance reflects? Where is the Holy Spirit prompting you to look at God instead of the world? </li><li>If this passage is the Lord according to the Lord (who He is), how will you respond to who He says He is and what He says He is like? </li></ol>

Holy Spirit, help us be aware of God passing by us, proclaiming His name, and bringing all of His goodness into our lives. May we believe and live knowing that God is good, Jesus has forgiven me, I am loved, and everything is possible. In Jesus’ name, amen.

<ul><li>Ask your Circle if Baptism is anyone’s next step. Baptism Weekend will be October 15. Our next Baptism class is on October 8. Register at <a href="https://valleycreek.org/baptism/" alt="valleycreek.org/baptism">valleycreek.org/baptism</a>.</li><li>All YHWH messages are on <a href="https://valleycreek.plus/" alt="ValleyCreek+" class="on">ValleyCreek+</a> as resources to go back and revisit, along with many other resources to help people on their journey with Jesus. </li></ul>

God Is Good, Part One

<ol><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/EXO.33.18-19" alt="Exodus 33:18-19">Exodus 33:18-19</a>. What fruit in your life demonstrates that you really believe God is good? </li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/EXO.33.14-15" alt="Exodus 33:14-15" class="on">Exodus 33:14-15</a>. Where are you choosing to stay instead of going with God? Or, where are you choosing to go instead of staying with God? </li><li>Any problem we have in our life can be traced back to unbelief in these core truths listed below. Which truth are you struggling to believe based on the current circumstances of your life?<ol><li>God is good.</li><li>Jesus has forgiven me.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>I am loved.</li><li>Everything is possible. </li></ol></li></ol>

Have a few people in your Circle find Bible verses about God’s goodness. Then read them aloud and pray that our Valley Creek family will repent and believe that God really is good.

<ul><li>Ask your Circle if Baptism is anyone’s next step. Baptism classes are on October 1 and October 8. Register at <a href="https://valleycreek.org/baptism/" alt="valleycreek.org/baptism">valleycreek.org/baptism</a>.</li><li>Do you know any young adults or graduating seniors who are hungry to grow with God and are ready for a challenge? Valley Creek Leadership Academy is a two-year college right here at Valley Creek Church! We have a preview event coming up where you can find out more at <a href="https://vcla.com/" alt="vcla.com" class="on">vcla.com</a>:<ul><li>Preview Day: Tuesday, October 3 from 8:30am-1:30pm at the Flower Mound Campus (for prospective students) </li></ul></li></ul>

 Songs of Sacrifice Experience

<ol><li>We are passionate about the presence of God; we are a worshiping church.<ol><li>What did you experience as we responded to God together? </li><li>How do you live out what it means to be a “worshiping church” in your everyday life? </li></ol></li><li>Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/2sa.24.24" alt="2 Samuel 24:24">2 Samuel 24:24</a>. <ol><li>What is God showing you through "Songs of Sacrifice"? </li><li>What is God inviting you to offer as a sacrifice (pride, preferences, praise, next steps, finances, time, etc.)? Are you willing to? </li></ol></li><li>How have you been experiencing the awe and wonder of God this week? </li></ol>

Thank You, God, for these songs of sacrifice. May they be pleasing to You and may they help advance people on their journey with You.&nbsp;

Encourage your Circle to download <a target="_blank" href="https://valleycreek.plus/albums/songs-of-sacrifice" alt="&quot;Songs of Sacrifice&quot;">"Songs of Sacrifice"</a> on their favorite music streaming service or on ValleyCreek+.<div class="se-component se-image-container __se__float-none" contenteditable="false"><figure><a target="_blank" href="https://valleycreek.plus/albums/songs-of-sacrifice" alt="https://valleycreek.plus/albums/songs-of-sacrifice" data-image-link="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/valley-creek-church/image/upload/v1694020009/VCCResources/20230905-Songs_Of_Sacrifice-Logo.png" alt="" data-rotate="" data-proportion="true" data-rotatex="" data-rotatey="" data-size="360px,360px" data-align="none" data-file-name="20230905-Songs_Of_Sacrifice-Logo.png" data-file-size="0" data-origin="," style="width: 360px; height: 360px;" data-image-link="https://valleycreek.plus/albums/songs-of-sacrifice" origin-size="1080,1080" data-index="0"></a></figure></div> Our Kids worship album, <a target="_blank" href="https://valleycreek.plus/albums/your-word-album-2023" alt="&quot;Your Word&quot;">"Your Word"</a> is also available! Listen on your favorite music streaming service or on ValleyCreek+. <div class="se-component se-image-container __se__float-none" contenteditable="false"><figure><a target="_blank" href="https://valleycreek.plus/albums/your-word-album-2023" alt="https://valleycreek.plus/albums/your-word-album-2023" data-image-link="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/valley-creek-church/image/upload/v1694971383/VCCResources/20230915-Kids-Your_Word_Album-Full.jpg" alt="" data-rotate="" data-image-link="https://valleycreek.plus/albums/your-word-album-2023" data-proportion="true" data-rotatex="" data-rotatey="" data-size="360px,360px" data-align="none" data-file-name="20230915-Kids-Your_Word_Album-Full.jpg" data-file-size="0" data-origin="," style="width: 360px; height: 360px;" origin-size="3000,3000" data-index="1"></a></figure></div> Do you know any young adults or graduating seniors who are hungry to grow and ready for a challenge? Valley Creek Leadership Academy is a two-year college right here at Valley Creek Church! We have two preview events coming up where you can find out more: <ul><li>​Interest Gathering: Sunday, September 24 at 12:45pm at the Flower Mound Campus (for parents and prospective students)</li><li>Preview Day: Tuesday, October 3 from 8:30am-1:30pm at the Flower Mound Campus (for prospective students) </li></ul>

Discuss

Pray

Leaders

 Message Notes

What Is God’s Name?

As you discuss the weekend message, remember that the kingdom of God is not cognitively understood but received by faith. Don’t try to comprehend the greatness of God (YAHWEH) with your mind, but instead, with your heart. Before you get started, let’s pray: Holy Spirit, we invite You in.

<ol><li>How did this message increase your perspective of the awe and wonder of God? </li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/EXO.33.19" alt="Exodus 33:19">Exodus 33:19</a>,<a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/EXO.34.5-7" alt="34:5-7">34:5-7</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JHN.1.1-4,14" alt="John 1:1-4,14">John 1:1-4,14</a>. The name of God (YAHWEH), the great I AM/HE IS, contains the personhood, power, and presence of God. In His name are all the realities of God.<ol><li>What does this mean to you? </li></ol></li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/EXO.20.4-5" alt="Exodus 20:4-5">Exodus 20:4-5</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/HEB.3.1" alt="Hebrews 3:1">Hebrews 3:1</a>. Idols (lowercase "g" gods) are anything that have our worship (attention, affection, and emotion).<ol><li>Is there any area of your heart or mind where you're aligning your attention, affection, and emotion with both Jesus and other gods (elohim)? If so, how will you move forward in repentance (<a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/rom.2.4" alt="Romans 2:4">Romans 2:4</a>)? </li></ol></li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JHN.8.58" alt="John 8:58">John 8:58</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/8/JHN.17.6" alt="John 17:6 AMPC" class="on">John 17:6 AMPC</a>. As you read through these declarations of Jesus, what is the Holy Spirit saying to you? How are they causing you to think differently about God’s goodness?<ol><li>I AM the bread of life</li><li>I AM the light of the world</li><li>I AM the good shepherd</li><li>I AM the resurrection and the life</li><li>I AM the way, the truth, and the life</li><li>I AM the vine </li></ol></li></ol>

Thank You, God, for revealing Your name to us. May we have a reverence for Your name and an accurate view of who You are.

<ul><li>Share <a href="https://valleycreek.plus/" alt="valleycreek.plus">valleycreek.plus</a> with your Circle to find resources, including this week’s message and transcript. </li></ul>

 He's Better Than You Think

<ol><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JHN.1.14" alt="John 1:14">John 1:14</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/116/JHN.1.18" alt="John 1:18 NLT">John 1:18 NLT</a>. God wants to be found and He reveals Himself to those who want to find Him. He does this through creation (<a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/ROM.1.19-20" alt="Romans 1:19-20">Romans 1:19-20</a>), Scripture (<a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JHN.5.39" alt="John 5:39">John 5:39</a>), and Jesus (<a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/COL.1.15" alt="Colossians 1:15">Colossians 1:15</a>).<ol><li>How are these challenging your thoughts about God?</li><li>What do you need to reconsider about who you think God is, why you think that, and how you know it’s true? </li></ol></li><li>Jesus came to earth to:<ol><li>Save the world. (Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/LUK.19.10" alt="Luke 19:10">Luke 19:10</a>)<ul><li>What is Jesus saving in your world?</li></ul></li><li>Show us what it’s like to be human. (Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JHN.14.12" alt="John 14:12">John 14:12</a>, <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/MAT.11.28-30" alt="Matthew 11:28-30">Matthew 11:28-30</a>)<ul><li>How is Jesus revealing what it means to be human to you?</li></ul></li><li>Destroy the works of the devil. (Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JHN.10.10-11" alt="John 10:10-11">John 10:10-11</a>)<ul><li>Where do you need to repent in attributing the works of the devil to God?</li></ul></li><li>Make the kingdom available and accessible to everyone. (Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/114/MAT.4.17" alt="Matthew 4:17 NKJV">Matthew 4:17 NKJV</a>)<ul><li>How has your view of God and sin shifted as you look at the face of Jesus?</li></ul></li><li>Show us what the Father (God) is really like. (Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/1849/HEB.1.1-3" alt="Hebrews 1:1-3 TPT">Hebrews 1:1-3 TPT</a>)<ul><li>What areas of your life are you discovering that God is better than you think? </li></ul></li></ol></li></ol>

Thank You, God, for sending Your Son to earth to reveal to us who You are. May the Valley Creek family seek to know everything You want to show us in Jesus’ name.

<ul><li>Tuesday Night Prayer is on September 5. Let your Circle know and invite them to join us for a night of worship and prayer. Tuesday Night Prayer is at our Flower Mound, Gainesville, and Online campuses at 7pm Central.</li><li>Men’s Night kicks off on Tuesday, September 12. Share the date with your Circle, and invite them to check out the website for more details: <a href="https://valleycreek.org/mensnights/" alt="valleycreek.org/mensnights" class="on">valleycreek.org/mensnights</a>. </li></ul>

Who Do You Think God Is?

Start with a “get to know you” conversation. Ask everyone to introduce themselves, tell how they got connected at Valley Creek, and why they want to be in a Circle.

<ol><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/HEB.3.1" alt="Hebrews 3:1">Hebrews 3:1</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/MAT.16.15-17" alt="Matthew 16:15-17">Matthew 16:15-17</a>. This weekend’s message had some big questions for us to consider, mindfully filtering out any “churchy” responses. What did you discover in answering these three questions?<ol><li>Who do you think God is?</li><li>Why do you think that?</li><li>How do you know it’s true? </li></ol></li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/2CO.10.5" alt="2 Corinthians 10:5">2 Corinthians 10:5</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/114/PRO.23.7" alt="Proverbs 23:7 NKJV">Proverbs 23:7 NKJV</a>. Spiritual warfare is choosing to refuse any thought that is not true about God.<ol><li>What thoughts do you have about God that don’t align with His true character? How are they shaping your decisions, choices, or actions? </li></ol></li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/114/PSA.8.4-5" alt="Psalms 8:4-5" class="on">Psalms 8:4-5</a>. Is it easy or difficult for you to believe God has abundant thoughts about you? Why or why not? </li><li>Circles are where we grow on our journey with Jesus. Who is one person you can invite to be a part of our Circle so we can discover more of God together? </li></ol>

Jesus, may You uncover thoughts in our minds that aren’t aligned with who You are and reveal to us more of who You are.

NEW CIRCLES 

Coming to Our Senses

Start with a “get to know you” conversation. Ask everyone to introduce themselves, tell how they got connected at Valley Creek, and share one fun fact about themselves.

<ol><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/heb.11.6" alt="Hebrews 11:6">Hebrews 11:6</a>. Fasting is a step of faith and an act of humility. God uses the physical realm to show us the Spiritual realm. What step of faith did you take during our week of fasting and praying? What did God show you through it? </li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/97/ROM.13.11.MSG" alt="Romans 13:11-14">Romans 13:11-14</a> MSG and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/rom.2.4" alt="Romans 2:4">Romans 2:4</a>. We, as the people of God, have been crying out to Him for an awakening. What has God been awakening you to?&nbsp; </li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/pro.3.5-6" alt="Proverbs 3:5-6">Proverbs 3:5-6</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/isa.40.3-4" alt="Isaiah 40:3-4." class="on">Isaiah 40:3-4.</a> By faith, we surrender to God anything that has more of our heart than Him, even good things. This fall, what is the Holy Spirit showing you that you need to surrender? How can we support you in your next step? </li></ol>

Jesus, help us be a people who are awakened to Your kingdom. May we hunger and thirst for You alone, knowing that in You, we are satisfied.

Lift Up Your Head

<ol><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/1KI.8.58" alt="1 Kings 8:58 ">1 Kings 8:58 </a>and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/114/2CO.3.18" alt="2 Corinthians 3:18">2 Corinthians 3:18</a> NKJV. We know our hearts are turned toward God when we are walking in His ways.&nbsp;As you live your daily life, where are you walking in His ways and where are you not? </li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/GEN.28.16-17" alt="Genesis 28:16-17">Genesis 28:16-17</a>. We tend to control any area of life where we don’t believe God is in it. What is God showing you about the areas of your life that you attempt to control the most? </li><li>We can’t wake ourselves up, but we can put ourselves back to sleep. What is God showing you through the six ways we can awaken to Him?<ol><li>Creation (<a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/ROM.1.19-20" alt="Romans 1:9-20">Romans 1:9-20</a>)</li><li>People (<a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/ACT.9.17-18" alt="Acts 9:17-18">Acts 9:17-18</a>)</li><li>Signs &amp; Wonders (<a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/ACT.2.19" alt="Acts 2:19">Acts 2:19</a>)</li><li>God’s Word (<a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JHN.5.39-40" alt="John 5:39-40">John 5:39-40</a>)</li><li>Holy Spirit (<a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JHN.16.8" alt="John 16:8">John 16:8</a>)</li><li>Jesus (<a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JHN.12.32" alt="John 12:32">John 12:32</a>) </li></ol></li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JOL.2.12-13" alt="Joel 2:12-13">Joel 2:12-13</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/MAT.6.16-18" alt="Matthew 6:16-18" class="on">Matthew 6:16-18</a>. Fasting is an invitation to partner with God as a normal part of following Jesus.<ol><li>If you’ve decided to fast and pray, what’s your plan?</li><li>If you’ve decided not to, what is God revealing to you about your heart? </li></ol></li></ol>

By faith, turn our hearts toward You, God, in every way.

<ul><li>Encourage your Circle to scan the QR code on the card from our experience, or visit <a href="https://valleycreek.org/awaken/" alt="valleycreek.org/awakening" class="on">valleycreek.org/awakening</a> every day August 14-20 as we pray and fast together.&nbsp; </li></ul>

Who Turns Your Heart?

<ol><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/mat.16.6" alt="Matthew 16:6">Matthew 16:6</a> and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/mrk.8.15" alt="Mark 8:15" class="on">Mark 8:15</a>. Where is yeast of religion (Pharisees), hopelessness (Sadducees), or worldliness (Herod) present in your life? How is God drawing you to turn back toward Him in those areas?&nbsp; </li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/1KI.8.58" alt="1 Kings 8:58">1 Kings 8:58</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/MAT.13.14-15" alt="Matthew 13:14-15">Matthew 13:14-15</a>. When we awaken to God it leads to growing in worship, holiness, and love. Which of these areas do you have a hunger to grow in in this season? </li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/EZK.36.26-27" alt="Ezekiel 36:26-27">Ezekiel 36:26-27</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/ISA.65.1" alt="Isaiah 65:1" class="on">Isaiah 65:1</a>. What is the Holy Spirit saying to you about awakening to God? </li><li>The Awakening Prayer and Fasting week will be August 14-20. What have you decided to fast, and when are you planning to seek God in prayer that week? </li></ol>

Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/1KI.8.58" alt="1 Kings 8:58">1 Kings 8:58</a>.&nbsp;Take time together as a Circle for each person to pray, "God, turn my heart back to you."

Freedom of Forgiveness

1. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/116/EPH.6.12" alt="Ephesians 6:12">Ephesians 6:12</a> NLT and<a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/COL.3.12-13" alt=" Colossians 3:12-14"> Colossians 3:12-14</a>. We fight for our family, not with our family. How is God inviting you to grow in kindness and compassion toward your family? 2. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/HEB.8.12" alt="Hebrews 8:12">Hebrews 8:12</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/HEB.12.15" alt="Hebrews 12:15">Hebrews 12:15</a>.<ul> <li>As you consider your heart, what areas of unforgiveness may have produced bitterness in your life? What is God inviting you to do with that?</li><li>Remember, bitterness doesn’t just hurt us, it hurts the people around us. If you have harbored unforgiveness, where have you seen it affect the people in your life?</li></ul> 3. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/116/MAT.18.21-22" alt="Matthew 18:21-22 " class="on">Matthew 18:21-22 </a>NLT. Here are some practical ways to walk out forgiveness and questions to help you process. Which of these ways do you need to do the most heartwork in and why? <ul><li>Ask Jesus for help.What do you need to ask for?</li><li>Go first in seeking forgiveness. Who/what do you need to seek forgiveness for?</li><li>Don’t require an apology.What do you need to release to move forward?</li><li>Admit to what’s been lost.Take inventory of your heart by writing those down.</li><li>Cancel the debt and credit the account.How can you bless who you’ve forgiven? </li></ul>

Jesus, help us receive and release forgiveness as we declare and demonstrate the gospel through kindness and compassion for one another.

<ul><li>Join the Movement is August 6 at 12:30pm. Invite anyone in your Circle who hasn’t attended yet to register at <a href="https://valleycreek.org/jointhemovement/" alt="valleycreek.org/jointhemovement" class="on">valleycreek.org/jointhemovement</a>. This is where people learn more about our story, our theology, and what being a hope carrier is all about. </li></ul>

Nature Of A Servant

<ol><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/MRK.10.45.NIV" alt="Mark 10:45">Mark 10:45</a>. How has Jesus served you? (Share some examples with your Circle.) </li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/jos.24.15" alt="Joshua 24:15">Joshua 24:15</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/1849/LUK.22.24,26-27.TPT" alt="Luke 22:24,26-27">Luke 22:24,26-27</a> (TPT).<ol><li>How would you describe relationships with your family (spouse, kid(s), roommate, etc.)?</li><li>Whether your family dynamics look more like Jesus’ model of servanthood or worldly selfishness, what would it look like for you to take on the nature of a servant and serve them? </li></ol></li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/mat.20.16" alt="Matthew 20:16">Matthew 20:16</a>. We can’t outserve our family with a worldly mentality. What are some personal challenges you face in serving your family? What is Jesus teaching you about servanthood in your life? </li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/114/1JN.4.17.NKJV" alt="1 John 4:17">1 John 4:17</a> (NKJV) and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/8/GEN.1.28.AMPC" alt="Genesis 1:28">Genesis 1:28</a> (AMPC). In your family, what could be saved through your choice to serve like Jesus? </li></ol>

Thank You Jesus for serving us best when we deserved it the least. Lord, we pray for all Valley Creek families to become the greatest of all by serving one another in love for our family’s good and Your glory.

<ul><li>Join the Movement is August 6 at 12:30pm. Invite anyone in your Circle who hasn’t attended yet to register at <a href="https://valleycreek.org/jointhemovement/" alt="valleycreek.org/jointhemovement">valleycreek.org/jointhemovement</a>. This is where people learn more about our story, our theology, and what being a hope carrier is all about. </li></ul>

Redefining Discipline

1. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/heb.12.6" alt="Hebrews 12:6">Hebrews 12:6</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/1co.13.4-7" alt="1 Corinthians 13:4-7">1 Corinthians 13:4-7</a>. What does discipline look like in your family? What is God inviting you to say or do differently with your words and actions?2. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/pro.22.15" alt="Proverbs 22:15">Proverbs 22:15</a>, <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/pro.13.24" alt="Proverbs 13:24">Proverbs 13:24</a>, <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/pro.19.18" alt="Proverbs 19:18">Proverbs 19:18</a>, and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/1jn.4.18" alt="1 John 4:18">1 John 4:18</a>, then reflect on the chart below. <ul> <li>Parents, does your parenting style align more with discipline or punishment? How so?</li><li>If you aren’t in a season of parenting, what is God teaching you about giving or receiving discipline, either in your current season or a future one?</li></ul><div class="se-component se-image-container __se__float-none" contenteditable="false"><figure style="margin: 0px;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/valley-creek-church/image/upload/v1689528527/VCCResources/Discipline%20Chart%20White.png" alt="" data-rotate="" data-proportion="true" data-rotatex="" data-rotatey="" data-size="360px,203px" data-align="none" data-file-name="Discipline%20Chart%20White.png" data-file-size="0" origin-size="1920,1080" data-origin="," style="width: 360px; height: 203px;" data-index="0"></figure></div> 3. Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/col.2.8" alt="Colossians 2:8">Colossians 2:8</a>. Discipline is a tool that leads to heart transformation. Below are some tips on how we can use that tool in a life-giving way. Where is God inviting you to take a next step? What will that look like for you practically? <ul> <li>Check your heart</li><li>Own your part</li><li>Choose appropriate consequences</li><li>Teach them to take responsibility</li><li>Restore them gently </li></ul>

As a Circle, we want to be intentional to spend time ministering to one another during our prayer time. Break into small groups or have your Circle go around and spend about ten minutes praying for God’s healing, comfort, and restoration for each other as we continue to learn how to do healthy family God’s way.

<ul><li>Find resources for VCLA and Young Adults at <a href="https://vcla.com/" alt="vcla.com">vcla.com</a> and <a href="https://valleycreek.org/youngadults/" alt="valleycreek.org/youngadults" class="on">valleycreek.org/youngadults</a>. </li></ul>

Healthy Communication

<ol><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JAS.1.19-20.NIV" alt="James 1:19-20">James 1:19-20</a>. To have healthy communication in the family, we need to model being quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. Which of these kingdom attributes is God highlighting for you? </li><li>What would others say about the culture you’ve created as a listener? Where do you need to grow in being quick to listen? </li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/PRO.18.21.NIV" alt="Proverbs 18:21">Proverbs 18:21</a> and <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/EPH.4.29.NIV" alt="Ephesians 4:29">Ephesians 4:29</a>. When you speak, is it out of reaction or with intention? What is Jesus teaching you about the impact your words have on others? </li><li>Read <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/GAL.5.19-21.NIV" alt="Galatians 5:19-21" class="on">Galatians 5:19-21</a>. When we walk in the Spirit, we can be free of frustration. How does the Jesus in you want you to respond to things that cause you to feel frustrated, out of control, or angry? </li></ol>

Jesus, may we be people who walk in the Spirit, growing in Your righteousness as we become quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.

<ul><li>Find resources to share with your Circle for Kids and Students at <a href="https://valleycreek.org/kids/" alt="valleycreek.org/kids">valleycreek.org/kids</a> and <a href="https://valleycreek.org/students/" alt="valleycreek.org/students" class="on">valleycreek.org/students</a>. </li></ul>

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