Adults

Spirit of Gratitude

<ol><li>Gratitude is a natural response to God’s goodness and grace. In 2021, where have you seen God’s goodness and grace in your life?&nbsp;</li><li>Our lives were purchased at a great price. How does this realization help you live with humility, honoring Jesus' sacrifice?&nbsp;</li><li>Gratitude is the antidote for entitlement. As you reflect on 2021 how have you used gratitude to fight against entitlement?&nbsp;​ </li></ol>

​<a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/luk.17.11-19" alt="Luke 17:11-19&nbsp;" class="on">Luke 17:11-19&nbsp;</a>​Gratitude unlocks wholeness. Why do you think the one who returned received healing of body and heart?&nbsp;

God, create in us a spirit of gratitude.

​<a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/1th.5.16-18" alt="1 Thessalonians 5:16&nbsp;">1 Thessalonians 5:16-18&nbsp;</a>​​<a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/psa.136.1" alt="Psalm 136:1&nbsp;">Psalm 136:1&nbsp;</a>​​<a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/heb.13.5" alt="Hebrews 13:5&nbsp;">Hebrews 13:5&nbsp;</a>​​<a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/114/psa.65.11" alt="Psalm 65:11&nbsp;">Psalm 65:11&nbsp;</a>​​<a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/psa.68.6" alt="Psalm 68:6&nbsp;">Psalm 68:6&nbsp;</a>​​<a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/mat.16.18" alt="Matthew 16:18&nbsp;" class="on">Matthew 16:18&nbsp;</a>​

Discuss

Read

Pray

Additional Scriptures

The Most Important Year

<ol><li>How are you building others? How is someone building you?&nbsp;</li><li>Kingdom movement leads to Kingdom joy and strength. How have you seen this pattern work in your life?&nbsp;</li><li>Who are you becoming? Where do you see evidence of the fruit of the Spirit growing in your life?&nbsp;</li><li>How would you describe your spiritual journey in 2021? What patterns, behaviors, habits, and beliefs have become ingrained in your life?&nbsp;​ </li></ol>

​<a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/pro.4.20-22" alt="Proverbs 4:20-22&nbsp;">Proverbs 4:20-22&nbsp;</a>​How has God’s Word brought life to you this year?&nbsp;

Jesus, thank you for where you’ve brought us this year. May we continue to value and honor your word as we anticipate breakthrough in the remaining 40 days of this year.

Encourage your Circle to attend Join the Movement, happening the first Sunday of every month!&nbsp;

DISCUSS

READ

PRAY

LEADERS

Message Notes on YouVersion

It's Time To Choose

<ol><li>What has Jesus been saying to you?&nbsp;</li><li>Where is Jesus inviting you to submit to His Lordship?&nbsp;</li><li>What is your next step?&nbsp;</li><li>Who can you ask to hold you accountable to take your next step?&nbsp; </li></ol>

What verse(s) do you need to hold on to from this series?&nbsp;Read these verses together.&nbsp;

Jesus, we choose you! May we have the faith to follow you, because you are the ancient future, the path of life.&nbsp;

Here are some potential Scriptures for your Circle to hold on to:&nbsp;​<a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/jer.6.16" alt="Jeremiah 6:16&nbsp;">Jeremiah 6:16&nbsp;</a>​​<a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/tit.2.11-12" alt="Titus 2:11-12&nbsp;">Titus 2:11-12&nbsp;</a>​​<a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/mat.28.18-20" alt="Matthew 28:18-20&nbsp;">Matthew 28:18-20&nbsp;</a>​​<a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/2ti.3.16-17" alt="2 Timothy 3:16-17&nbsp;">2 Timothy 3:16-17&nbsp;</a>​​<a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/heb.11.1" alt="Hebrews 11:1&nbsp;" class="on">Hebrews 11:1&nbsp;</a>​

Leaders

There's More For You Than Against You

<ol><li>Describe how you have made a choice to walk the ancient path, to choose life, throughout this series.&nbsp;</li><li>As a believer, the ancient path is easiest when the grace of God, the Spirit of God, the people of God, and the Word of God are active in your life. What evidence is there of each in your life?&nbsp;</li><li>Are you thinking, acting, talking, living, and believing like Jesus? If not now, when? </li></ol>

​<a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/tit.2.11-12" alt="Titus 2:11-12&nbsp;" class="on">Titus 2:11-12&nbsp;</a>​How do these verses encourage you on your ancient path journey?&nbsp;

Holy Spirit, thank you that you empower and strengthen us to choose Jesus, the ancient path. May we live and walk the ancient path and help others discover it.&nbsp;

Invite your Circle to join the mission of serving 1,000 families in our city with Thanksgiving groceries!&nbsp;

Moving Past Apathy

<ol><li>Three ways to practice the way of Jesus in being on mission: 1) Serve 2) Build 3) Invite. Are you engaged in any of these? Where are you being invited to grow in these areas?&nbsp;</li><li>When making decisions, how do you factor in serving, building, and inviting others?&nbsp;</li><li>Share how being on mission has refreshed you and kept your passion alive for what Jesus has done in your life?&nbsp; </li></ol>

<a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/mat.28.18-20" alt="Matthew 28:18-20">Matthew 28:18-20</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/8/gen.1.28" alt="Genesis 1:28" class="on">Genesis 1:28</a>&nbsp;Do you consider these Scriptures your purpose? Why or why not?&nbsp;

Jesus, reignite passion in our hearts for being on mission with you. May we have humble and repentant hearts to point our feet in the direction we want our hearts to go.

​<a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/2co.6.2" alt="2 Corinthians 6:2">2 Corinthians 6:2</a>, <a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/heb.12.2" alt="Hebrews 12:2">Hebrews 12:2</a>, <a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/jhn.4.1-30" alt="John 4:1-30" class="on">John 4:1-30</a>​

Invite your Circle to join the mission of serving 1,000 families in our city with Thanksgiving groceries!

Additional Scripture

There's No Third Road

<ol><li>Share a story when you have either received or given radical generosity.</li><li>Three reasons we struggle with giving God control of our money: 1) Fear 2) Greed 3) Pride. Which one of these do you struggle with the most and why?</li><li>What’s one step you can take to practice the way of Jesus in being debt-free, tithing, and radical generosity? </li></ol>

​<a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/mat.6.19-24" alt="Matthew 6:19-24" class="on">Matthew 6:19-24</a>​As you honestly reflect, is money a tool or a treasure in your life? Are you trying to serve two masters?

God, thank you for your radical generosity to us. Will you give us grace and courage to be radically generous and to give you Lordship in every area of our lives.

Encourage your Circle to attend Join the Movement, which is the first Sunday of every month.

Slowing Things Down

<ol><li>What was your experience like this weekend? What stretched you, challenged you, or encouraged you?</li><li>Where is there a disorienting interruption in your life that is a divine invitation?</li><li>What is the Holy Spirit saying to you?&nbsp;&nbsp; </li></ol>

​<a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/rom.8.26-27" alt="Romans 8:26-27" class="on">Romans 8:26-27</a>​How does knowing the Holy Spirit is helping you pray change the way you pray?&nbsp;

Choose one Scripture and pray that verse as the Spirit leads.​<a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/1ti.2.1-2" alt="1 Timothy 2:1-2">1 Timothy 2:1-2</a>​Pray for a leader in your life: that God would fill them with godly wisdom, understanding, and supernatural insight; that God’s face would shine upon them and they would have His favor.​<a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/mat.5.44-45" alt="Matthew 5:44-45">Matthew 5:44-45</a>​Pray for someone who is against you: that you feel the Lord’s compassion and love for them; that kindness would lead them to repentance; that the Lord would be gracious and good to them.​<a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/mat.9.37-38" alt="Matthew 9:37-38">Matthew 9:37-38</a>​Pray for your campus pastors, leaders, and serve teams: that they be encouraged and strengthened; that they be filled by the Holy Spirit; for God’s protection and blessing; that people would rise up to serve each other.​<a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/jer.29.7" alt="Jeremiah 29:7">Jeremiah 29:7</a>​Pray for your city: for supernatural intervention; for schools, businesses, and government entities; for peace and prosperity; for His kingdom to come.​<a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/php.4.6-7" alt="Philippians 4:6-7">Philippians 4:6-7</a>​Pray for the peace of God to guard your heart and mind: give your burdens to the Lord; give your circumstances to the Lord; give your worries to the Lord; stop thinking about it and start praying about it.​<a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/luk.11.9-10" alt="Luke 11:9-10" class="on">Luke 11:9-10</a>​Pray for the desires of your heart: ask, seek, and knock; that your desires would come in line with His desires; that you would surrender your will to His will.&nbsp;

Shaking the Ground

<ol><li>How would your prayers change if you believed the primary purpose was to enjoy God?</li><li>To choose to pray is to choose not to be anxious. What steps can you take to lay down a burden of worry through prayer?</li><li>Why is it our responsibility to the world to live a lifestyle of prayer?​</li></ol>

​<a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/1ti.2.1-2" alt="1 Timothy 2:1-2">1 Timothy 2:1-2</a>, <a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/mat.5.44-45" alt="Matthew 5:44-45">Matthew 5:44-45</a>, <a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/mat.9.37-38" alt="Matthew 9:37-38">Matthew 9:37-38</a>, <a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/jer.29.7" alt="Jeremiah 29:7" class="on">Jeremiah 29:7</a>​These are prayers Jesus asks us to pray. Pray these Scriptures aloud within your Circle.

Lord, teach us how to pray. Help us to enjoy you and live empowered by you. Stir our hearts to see your kingdom on earth as it is in heaven.

Open your time together by leading your Circle to acknowledge and enjoy the presence of God.

Unshakable Hope

<ol><li>Hope is being anchored in God’s goodness. Do you believe God is good? Do you believe God is good to you? Why?</li><li>Focusing on God’s character, faithfulness, and promises is how we cultivate hope in our hearts. How is your hope?</li><li>What are your countenance and words saying about the hope in you? </li></ol>

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/rom.4.18-21" alt="Romans 4:18-21" class="on">Romans 4:18-21</a>​ What is the difference between having hope for something versus hope in someone?

Thank You Jesus for being our living hope. Turn our hearts back to You and stir up hope in us. Jesus, because of You, we always have hope.

This Will Require Faith

<ol><li>How’s your faith level? Where have you been lowering your beliefs to match your circumstances?</li><li>Encourage each other’s faith by sharing when you have seen the supernatural move of God in your life.</li><li>What specific actions do you need to take to grow your faith this week?</li></ol>

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/heb.11.1-2" alt="Hebrews 11:1-2" class="on">Hebrews 11:1-2</a>​Where can you strengthen your faith by focusing your eyes on Jesus, reducing the voices you’re listening to, and valuing time spent with God and his faithfulness?

Jesus, as we fix our eyes on you, will you increase our faith. May your faithfulness fill us and bring us rest for our souls. Lord, we do believe, help us with our unbelief.

Encourage your Circle to attend Join the Movement, which is held the first Sunday of every month.

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/mrk.6.5-6" alt="Mark 6:5-6">Mark 6:5-6</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/mat.8.5-10" alt="Matthew 8:5-10">Matthew 8:5-10</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/eph.3.20" alt="Ephesians 3:20">Ephesians 3:20</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/mrk.9.24" alt="Mark 9:24">Mark 9:24</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/gen.32.28" alt="Genesis 32:28" class="on">Genesis 32:28</a>​

A Whole New Way of Life

<ol><li>Jesus is the true reference for our new identity. Share your story - who were you before and who are you now in Jesus?</li><li>As we enter this week, how can we remind ourselves that we are carrying the presence of God into our families, workplaces, and communities?</li><li>Share the name of one person in your life that needs the hope of Jesus. As a Circle, pray for these people by name to receive the hope of Jesus. </li></ol>

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/jhn.17.15-18" alt="John 17:15-18" class="on">John 17:15-18</a>​What did Jesus mean when He prayed that we not be taken out of the world?

God, may we pursue our calling and purpose to carry the hope of Jesus to our world.

When You Have No King

<ol><li>How do you currently process decisions in your life?</li><li>What things are you holding onto that make it difficult for you to walk in the way of Jesus?</li><li>What is Jesus inviting you to submit to His Lordship?</li></ol>

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/isa.55.8-9" alt="Isaiah 55:8-9" class="on">Isaiah 55:8-9</a>​Where has God given you a path forward, but you’re having a difficult time trusting Him vs. the world? How can you practice trusting God in this situation?

Jesus, create in us humble hearts to submit all of our lives to your Lordship. Give us a desire and passion to be followers of the way.

Is baptism the next step for anyone in your Circle? Baptism classes are on September 19 and baptism celebrations on September 26.

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/1co.1.30" alt="1 Corinthians 1:30">1 Corinthians 1:30</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/1jn.1.1" alt="John 1:1">John 1:1</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/jhn.14.6" alt="John 14:6">John 14:6</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/luk.5.5" alt="Luke 5:5" class="on">Luke 5:5</a>​

Leaders 

Once Spoken

<ol><li>What’s happening in your life right now that is an invitation or opportunity to practice the way of Jesus?</li><li>Are there areas of your life where you’ve lost sight of God’s word? What can you do to rediscover God’s word and begin walking in its ways?</li><li>What has God said to you that you feel is modern foolishness because it’s so counter-cultural? What do you do about that? </li></ol>

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/jer.6.16-17" alt="Jeremiah 6:16-17" class="on">Jeremiah 6:16-17</a>​How does walking the ancient paths lead to rest for your soul?

Jesus, will you lead and guide us with grace to walk your ancient paths. May your word be the light and lamp that shows us the next step to take.

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/mal.3.6" alt="Malachi 3:6">Malachi 3:6</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/mat.7.24-27" alt="Matthew 7:24-27">Matthew 7:24-27</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/2ki.22" alt="2 Kings 22" class="on">2 Kings 22</a>​

By Design: Circles

<ol><li>How do you know when you have hard, rocky, divided, or good soil in your heart?</li><li>In your Circle, how are you going to hold each other accountable to steward the seed and receive 30, 60, 100 fold return?</li><li>Do you treat the Word of God as common or supernatural? How is that reflected in your life? </li></ol>

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/mrk.4.10-20" alt="Mark 4:10-20" class="on">Mark 4:10-20</a>​Discuss content consumption versus cultivating conversations.

God, thank you for your Word and its supernatural power. May we steward it well to receive the 30, 60, 100 fold harvest in our lives.

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/isa.55.11" alt="Isaiah 55:11">Isaiah 55:11</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/2ti.3.16-17" alt="2 Timothy 3:16-17">2 Timothy 3:16-17</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/heb.4.12" alt="Hebrews 4:12">Hebrews 4:12</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/jhn.6.63" alt="John 6:63" class="on">John 6:63</a>​

New Circle - Get to Know Each Other

<ul><li>Find out more about each person: family, work, background, interests, VCC story.</li><li>What’s this season been like for each of them?</li><li>What does each person hope to get out of Circles this semester? </li></ul>

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/eph.2.19-22" alt="Ephesians 2:19-22" class="on">Ephesians 2:19-22</a>​What is the significance of being members of God’s household?

God, help us to take our responsibility to be in relationships seriously, to be humble, hungry, and honest. May our Circle be an environment for your presence to dwell.

Do the Heart Work

<ul><li>Do you believe you need relationships with people in our church? Why or why not?</li><li>How are your relationships with the people in our church?</li><li>What keeps you from building relationships with the people in our church?</li><li>Are there any hurts, wounds, or offenses that are keeping you from building those relationships?</li><li>What are you the most afraid of in connecting with others?</li><li>What does God want to do in your life through the gifts of others? What does He want to do in their life through your gifts?</li><li>What is God saying to you?</li><li>What is your next step? </li></ul>

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/psa.139.23-24" alt="Psalm 139:23-24" class="on">Psalm 139:23-24</a>​Why is it important to take time to answer these questions?

God, will you continue to transform us as we slow down and do the heart work. May our greatest relationships be those yet to come.

How Much Do You Want?

<ul><li>How has this series changed your perspective of why meaningful relationships with the family of believers are essential?</li><li>People build relationships for these reasons: meet a need in their life, find friendships, personal growth, or want more of God. Why are you in your Circle?</li><li>As a result of this series, what responsibility do you now have? </li></ul>

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/neh.3.28-32" alt="Nehemiah 3:28-32" class="on">Nehemiah 3:28-32</a>​If some relationships in your life have crumbled, how do you begin to remove the rubble and build new ones with people right in front of you?

Holy Spirit, will you give us the courage to ask questions and engage in meaningful conversations.

Next time you meet, share with your Circle a meaningful conversation you had while on your campus.

Challenge

There I Am

<ul><li>Share a time when you experienced God in a profound way while in community with other believers.</li><li>What is our responsibility in building the third leg of the stool in order to experience the fullness of God’s presence in our weekend gatherings?</li><li>Who are you building and who are you being built by? </li></ul>

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/eph.4.11-16" alt="Ephesians 4:11-16" class="on">Ephesians 4:11-16</a>​What gifts have you been given to build and grow the VCC family?

God, help us to take our responsibility to be in relationships seriously, to be humble, hungry, and honest. May we gladly accept the invitation to build an environment for your presence.

What Are You Attracting?

<ul><li>Where are you on this scale: building new relationships, rebuilding existing relationships, or connecting others to relationships? What’s your next step? Who is one person you can invite to Circle next week?</li><li>In your life, what are you preparing for? What are you attracting? Is this what you want to attract?</li><li>As a believer, you are God’s temple and His Spirit dwells within you. How are you positioning yourself to receive “the more” God has available for you? </li></ul>

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/eph.2.19-22" alt="Ephesians 2:19-22">Ephesians 2:19-22</a>​What is the significance of being members of God’s household?

God, will You take us and use us to build a supernatural temple in which You can dwell and the world can see Your glory.

60 Days Celebration

<ul><li>In which area did you experience the greatest growth in yourself: rest, joy, or relationships?</li><li>Soul Detox was a powerful time of encountering God’s goodness. How have you been applying what God spoke to you?</li><li>What have you learned through engaging with Scripture daily throughout the last 60 days? </li></ul>

Choose a Scripture from your campus-specific message to discuss with your Circle.

Jesus, may we never forget that You are our source of rest, joy, and relationships.

Next Level Relationships

<ul><li>Would people in your life say that you value them?</li><li>How are your relationships marked with honesty, serving, and fun?</li><li>Jesus went first for you. How can you go first for others? </li></ul>

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/mrk.12.29-31" alt="Mark 12:29-31" class="on">Mark 12:29-31</a>​Do you view the relationships in your life with this level of priority?

Jesus, let me see the people in my life as you see them.

Soul Detox

If the pain of repentance feels higher than the pain of tolerance we have dropped the guard off our heart. Where are you tolerating toxins versus repenting and turning away from them?&nbsp;Here are five ways to have a toxic-free heart. Which one do you need to start taking next steps in today?<ul><li>Engaging the word of God</li><li>Repenting to gain the perspective of God</li><li>Declaring the promises of God</li><li>Gathering with the people of God</li><li>Worshipping and giving your heart to God </li></ul>

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/97/MAT.8.3-4" alt="Matthew 8:3-4 (MSG)" class="on">Matthew 8:3-4 (MSG)</a>​How can you express gratitude to God for what he has done for you?"

Jesus, will you give us a desire to live toxic-free lives. May we lean in and plant your promises in our hearts.

When are you planning to go to the Soul Detox experience? Have you encouraged those in your Circle to go? Details at valleycreek.org/souldetox

Time To Celebrate

<ul><li>Spend some time celebrating stories of God’s goodness in your lives.</li><li>How do you invite God’s presence into your day through worship, gratitude, and prayer? Share your best tips! </li></ul>

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/1co.14.1-3" alt="1 Corinthians 14:1-3" class="on">1 Corinthians 14:1-3</a>​Declare courage, love, awe and wonder, faithfulness, and strength over our church family and those in your Circle.

Ask God for a fresh awareness of His goodness.

God created men with intention and purpose. Use the questions below to dig deeper into how they were designed and how we can honor them. There are some questions just for men, some just for women, and some for everyone. You can also use the Scriptures listed in each section for further study.

Questions:Men: How are God’s attributes displayed in you? (God is___, so I am ___)Women: How are some of the qualities that men have a reflection of God? (Men are___, and God is___)Men &amp; Women: What is the result when men live and serve under the authority of God?Scriptures:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/GEN.1.26-27.NIV" alt="Genesis 1:26-27">Genesis 1:26-27</a>&nbsp;| <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/mrk.10.45" alt="Mark 10:45" class="on">Mark 10:45</a>​

Questions:Men: Is there anything that keeps you from defining your core identity as a beloved son?Women: Have you ever asked the Holy Spirit how you can encourage the men in your life to receive love from God?Men &amp; Women: Where in your life are you acting like an orphan instead of a beloved son or daughter?&nbsp;Scriptures:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/mat.3.17" alt="Matthew 3:17">Matthew 3:17</a>&nbsp;| <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/luk.19.10" alt="Luke 19:10">Luke 19:10</a>​

Questions:Men: When have you resisted vulnerable relationships and why?Women: Do you let the world or the kingdom define what your relationships should look like?Men &amp; Women: When have you valued achievement and status over relationship?&nbsp;Scriptures:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/GEN.2.18" alt="Genesis 2:18">Genesis 2:18</a>&nbsp;| <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JHN.10.14-15.NIV" alt="John 10:14-15" class="on">John 10:14-15</a>​

Questions:Men: One of the primary ways men are created to work with God is to declare identity over the people in their lives. Who are you helping discover their identity in Jesus?Women: Where have you seen God’s work done through men and women partnering together?Men &amp; Women: How has this message opened your eyes to the difference between job and work?Scriptures:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/gen.2.15" alt="Genesis 2:15">Genesis 2:15</a>&nbsp;| <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/gen.1.28" alt="Genesis 1:28">Genesis 1:28</a>&nbsp;| <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/col.3.23" alt="Colossians 3:23" class="on">Colossians 3:23</a>​

Questions:Women &amp; Men: How did this message change your perspective on how God designed men and what they are created to do?Women &amp; Men: Who is one person that you can share this message with?

God Created Man

 Men Are Designed to Live as Sons

Men are Made for Relationship

Men are Created to Work with God

The Path to Joy

<ul><li>How’s your joy? Are you hopeful, cheerful, lighthearted?</li><li>What or who is trying to destroy your joy?</li><li>How are you engaging with the movement of God at Valley Creek? </li></ul>

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/psa.126" alt="Psalm 126" class="on">Psalm 126</a>​Why do you think kingdom joy is tied so closely to kingdom movement?

Jesus, as we move forward with you fill us with your fullness of joy, power, and purpose!

Time to Rest

<ul><li>How’s your soul? Are you at rest?</li><li>What or who is trying to pursue you and steal your rest?</li><li>Where do you need to embrace humility, gratitude, and margin to find rest inside of you? </li></ul>

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/jer.6.16" alt="Jeremiah 6:16" class="on">Jeremiah 6:16</a>​In what ways are you a roadblock to your own rest? Where are you trying to get rest apart from God?

God, may we seek and find rest for our souls in you. Help us to learn to rest in you and experience the fullness of what you have for us.

Becoming Response Weekend

<ul><li>Who are you becoming? What specifically are you excited about and where do you feel stuck?</li><li>Where is Jesus inviting you to submit to His Lordship?</li><li>What is your next step? </li></ul>

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/2pe.1.3-8" alt="2 Peter 1:3-8" class="on">2 Peter 1:3-8</a>​What do these Scriptures say about the process of growing as a disciple?

Jesus, we are grateful that you have given us everything we need to live the life you have called us to live. Thank you for your grace that draws us and transforms us.

No Holding Back

<ul><li>How have you been discipled by other people?</li><li>Where is God asking you to surrender your time, talent, and treasure to go on mission with Him?</li><li>What are you going to do with what God has been teaching you in this series?​ </li></ul>

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/mat.28.18-20" alt="Matthew 28:18-20" class="on">Matthew 28:18-20</a>​Ask God what this means for your life.

Jesus, stir up a passion in my heart for your mission. Thank you for the purpose you have given me.

Love is the Measure

<ul><li>What are some characteristics of living with the fruit of love versus living with the fruit of the flesh?</li><li>Is there any area you need to take responsibility and reconcile for not living love?</li><li>Do you spend your life trying to love Jesus or allowing Him to love you? </li></ul>

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/jhn.13.12-17" alt="John 13:12-17">John 13:12-17</a>​What are you willing to sacrifice to live love as Jesus modeled?Additional Reading - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/jhn.13" alt="John 13">John 13</a> &amp; <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/1jn.4" alt="1 John 4" class="on">1 John 4</a>​

God, thank you for the way you love us. May we know and rely on your love that surpasses knowledge.

Woman

God created women with intention and purpose. Use the questions below to dig deeper into how they were designed and how we can honor them. There are some questions just for women, some just for men, and some for everyone. You can also use the Scriptures listed in each section for further study.

Questions:&nbsp;Women: How are your unique, feminine attributes displayed in God?(I am _______, and God is ________)Men: How are some of the qualities that women have a reflection of God?&nbsp;(Women are __________, and God is __________)Women &amp; Men: Women are God’s masterpieces. How are we to value a masterpiece?Scriptures:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/GEN.1" alt="Genesis 1-2" class="on">Genesis 1-2</a> | <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/col.1.15-17" alt="Colossians 1:15-17">Colossians 1:15-17</a> | <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/eph.2.10" alt="Ephesians 2:10" class="on">Ephesians 2:10</a>​

Questions:Women: What has God entrusted to you that you have multiplied and given life to?Women: Where have you let Satan define your identity and sideline you from your purpose? What are you going to do about it?Men: How can you encourage the women in your life to stand up and be who God called them to be?Women &amp; Men: As the Church, how are you giving life to your community?&nbsp;Scriptures:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/GEN.3.20" alt="Genesis 3:20">Genesis 3:20</a>&nbsp;| <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/GEN.3.15" alt="Genesis 3:15">Genesis 3:15</a> | <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/jdg.5.6-7" alt="Judges 5:6-7" class="on">Judges 5:6-7</a>​

Questions:Women: Where have you resisted relationships and why?Men: How has your life been enhanced as a result of women carrying a heart for relationships?Women &amp; Men: How do your thoughts and feelings about the word “helper” relate to what you learned in this message?Women &amp; Men: How do you experience the Holy Spirit as a helper?&nbsp;Scriptures:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/GEN.2.18" alt="Genesis 2:18">Genesis 2:18</a>&nbsp;| <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/GEN.1.28" alt="Genesis 1:28">Genesis 1:28</a> | <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/jhn.14.16" alt="John 14:16" class="on">John 14:16</a>​

Questions:Women: You are equipped and empowered to advance the kingdom of God. What does this look like for you?Men: How can you make the women in your life feel seen?Women &amp; Men: What does Scripture say about how God uniquely empowered women?Scriptures:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/act.2.18" alt="Acts 2:18">Acts 2:18</a>,<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/act.2.21" alt="21">21</a> | <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/2ti.3.17" alt="2 Timothy 3:17">2 Timothy 3:17</a> | <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/GEN.3.6" alt="Genesis 3:6" class="on">Genesis 3:6</a>​

Questions:Women &amp; Men: How did this message change your perspective on how God designed women and what they are created to do?Women &amp; Men: Who is one person that you can share this message with?

God Created Woman

 Women Were Designed To Give Life

Women Are Made For Relationships

Women Are Empowered To Advance The Kingdom

Because You Say So

<ul><li>What has Jesus been saying to you?</li><li>Where is Jesus inviting you to submit to His Lordship?</li><li>What is your next step?</li></ul>

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/luk.6.46-49" alt="Luke 6:46-49" class="on">Luke 6:46-49</a>​What keeps you from following and obeying Jesus?

Jesus, may you be Lord of all areas of our lives and may we be disciples.

Refuse To Be Conformed

<ul><li>We focus more on what Jesus has done for us than what we have to do for Him. What has Jesus done for you?</li><li>If others listened to your words, would they say you are focused on: yourself, religion, being a victim, judging others, or Jesus?</li><li>Where have you let opinions, preferences, experiences, and passions become absolutes? </li></ul>

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/rom.12.2" alt="Romans 12:2" class="on">Romans 12:2</a>​You are a disciple of whatever you focus on the most. So what are you a disciple of?

Jesus, we want you to be the absolute center of our lives. Help us to take our focus off of the distractions of this world and place it back on you.

The Power of Presence

<ul><li>Who are you becoming? What evidence in your life points to growth, maturity, and development in the character and power of Jesus?</li><li>Why can we struggle having a relationship with God?</li><li>When was the last time you enjoyed God? How can you rearrange your day to spend 90 seconds each morning enjoying Him? </li></ul>

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/97/MAT.11.28-30.MSG" alt="Matthew 11:28-30" class="on">Matthew 11:28-30</a> (The MSG translation)Take note of the number of times the word “with” is used in this passage. How is “with” a clue to learning the unforced rhythms of grace?

God, may we learn your heart and carry it into the world.

Who Are You Becoming?

<ul><li>Compare your thoughts and feelings about being a disciple with what we learned this weekend.</li><li>Do you measure your life by accomplishments or by who you are becoming?</li><li>A disciple is a learner. Who are you learning from? Do you want to become like this person? </li></ul>

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/jer.18.1-6" alt="Jeremiah 18:1-6" class="on">Jeremiah 18:1-6</a>​How are you allowing God to shape you through His word, His Spirit, His people, and circumstances?

Jesus, I am your clay and you are my potter. Help me to live as the masterpiece you have created.

The Story

<ul><li>Your circumstances are not your whole story, but just one paragraph. Have you accepted the invitation from Jesus to put your paragraph into His story? If so, describe how your identity has been restored, your relationship reconciled, and your purpose redeemed.</li><li>Is Jesus the hero of your story or are you? Where are you trying to be the savior of your life?</li><li>After experiencing The Story, what does it mean to you? And, what are you going to do about it? </li></ul>

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/rom.5.18-20" alt="Romans 5:18-20" class="on">Romans 5:18-20</a>​Is there anything keeping you from fully receiving the righteousness of God (being in right standing with God)? If so, what is it?

Express gratitude for who Jesus is and what He has done in your life.

Family on Mission

<ul><li>Describe something you are super passionate about.</li><li>How do we cultivate the same level of passion about Jesus and for our mission?</li><li>What’s one easy way you can jump into mission this week? Invite someone, post on social media, serve, share your story... </li></ul>

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/rom.1.14-17" alt="Romans 1:14-17" class="on">Romans 1:14-17</a>​Paul was passionate and unashamed of the gospel. What keeps you from living completely unashamed of the gospel?

Note: Circle Leaders - have each person in your Circle pray this out loud.Jesus, I ask you to prepare a receptive, eager heart in [insert name]. I pray that [he/she] will say “yes” to my invitation to join us as we experience The Story.

Insta Story Weekend

<ul><li>Which story resonated most with your heart and why: do hard things, trust God, seek God with your whole heart, or know God is with you?</li><li>What story is God currently writing in your life? </li></ul>

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/rev.12.11" alt="Revelation 12:11" class="on">Revelation 12:11</a>​According to this verse, why is it important to value and share your story/testimony?

Jesus, help me to value your voice in my life and in the lives of others. Thank you for the stories of your faithfulness and goodness.

So Let Us Run

<ul><li>During these past eight weeks, we have learned to engage, connect, forgive, obey, enjoy God, remember, and trust again. How have you moved forward by faith in one or more of these areas?</li><li>Fill in this blank: I need to ____________ again.</li><li>Who can you encourage to breathe again, believe again, and begin again? </li></ul>

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/heb.12.1-3" alt="Hebrews 12:1-3" class="on">Hebrews 12:1-3</a>​According to this passage, what are the elements needed to live a life following Jesus?

Jesus, give us the faith to step forward into the life you’ve called us to live.

Broken Trust

<ul><li>What or whom do you love most in this world? Are you entrusting God with these?</li><li>How is your journey of trusting God going? Do you trust him more today than yesterday?</li><li>Where are you skeptical and still expecting the worst? </li></ul>

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/jer.17.7-8" alt="Jeremiah 17:7-8" class="on">Jeremiah 17:7-8</a>​These verses show us a picture of faithful trust over a long period of time. What does faithful trust look like in your life? How are you cultivating trust?

God, thank you that you are good and can be trusted. Teach us to trust your goodness one step at a time.

A City to Serve & a Kingdom to Release

<ul><li>How have you been part of the missional move and how has the missional move impacted you?</li><li>Where is it time for you to give again, serve again, and live on mission again? What will that look like in your life? </li></ul>

​<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/act.2.42-47" alt="Acts 2:42-47" class="on">Acts 2:42-47</a>​Devoted means doing something with intense effort despite difficulty. What are you devoted to for the good of others and the glory of God?

God, show us how we can live a life that matters every day.

What can we help you find?

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