Message Notes on YouVersion

Adults

God's With You

Caleb Chapple, Central Associate Students Director

<ol><li>Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JOS.1.9" alt="Joshua 1:9">Joshua 1:9</a>. Where in your life do you need to believe this promise for yourself? </li><li>In what area of your daily life do you rely on being qualified rather than moving forward claiming, declaring, and walking in this promise? </li><li>Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/EXO.33.15-16" alt="Exodus 33:15-16">Exodus 33:15-16</a>. What Promised Land have you sought outside of God’s presence (maybe even without realizing it)? Where do you want the desert with God more than the Promised Land without Him, or vice versa? What is the Holy Spirit saying to you? </li><li>Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/1713/2CO.3.17-18" alt="2 Corinthians 3:17-18" class="on">2 Corinthians 3:17-18</a>. We were made to live set apart! Where are you trying to fit in with the world rather than stand out with the kingdom? How so? </li></ol>

Declare this promise aloud together, then pray it over your Circle and the Valley Creek family by personalizing it.“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

<ul><li>In your attendance, share feedback on question #3. </li><li>Join the Movement is coming up on August 4. This is a great next step for anyone in your Circle who hasn’t gone through it. Share the registration link with them <a target="_blank" href="https://valleycreek.org/jointhemovement/" alt="here" class="on">here</a>. </li></ul>

60 Days of Unfamiliar Promises

COMMUNICATOR

DISCUSS & ENGAGE THE SCRIPTURES

PRAY

LEADERS

God's Providing

Justin Lanham, Flower Mound Campus Student Director

1. Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/PHP.4.19" alt="Philippians 4:19">Philippians 4:19</a> and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/MAT.6.8" alt="Matthew 6:8">Matthew 6:8</a>. We work so hard to get what we want in life that sometimes, we don’t actually get what we need from God.<ul><li>What are some things in your life you've been convinced are needs, but are actually wants?</li><li>How will you surrender those to God as you change the way you live? </li></ul> 2. Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/116/PSA.84.11" alt="Psalms 84:11 NLT">Psalms 84:11 NLT</a>. God will always give you what you need to be who He’s called you to be and do what He’s called you to do. In order to meet our needs, God promises to provide us:<ul><li>The Grace Of God</li><li>The Spirit Of God</li><li>The Word Of God</li><li>The People Of God</li><li>The Mission Of God</li></ul>How are these five things helping you become who God has called you to be and do what He’s called you to do? 3. Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/PHP.4.19" alt="Philippians 4:19 ">Philippians 4:19 </a>aloud as a Circle. What would it look like for you to claim, declare, and walk in this promise, acting as if it were so?

Thank You, God, for providing everything we need. May we allow You to always define our needs and trust in Your promises.

In your attendance, share feedback on question #2.

Week of July 7

1. Read <a target="_blank" 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>. Practice plan check in! How's your summer training going? If you haven’t made one or started yet, what’s stopping you? What’s your next step? 2. Below are all the promises we’ve talked about so far this summer. Take some time to read through and discuss each of them, then walk through these questions:<ul><li>How have you been applying these promises to your daily life?</li><li>How have you seen God move in your life as you have been claiming, declaring, and walking in His promises?</li><li>Which promise has shaped you the most this summer? </li></ul>

Week 1: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/2CO.1.20" alt="2 Corinthians 1:20" class="on">2 Corinthians 1:20</a> – For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God. Week 2: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/ROM.8.28" alt="Romans 8:28">Romans 8:28</a> – And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Week 3: <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/2692/PRO.3.5-6" alt="Proverbs 3:5-6" class="on">Proverbs 3:5-6</a> – Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Week 4: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/mat.6.33" alt="Matthew 6:33">Matthew 6:33</a> – "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."

God, thank You for Your promises and Your ways, which are higher than ours. May we continue to put You first and trust in You as we choose to live as disciples of Jesus.

<ul><li>Visit <a target="_blank" href="https://valleycreek.plus/" alt="valleycreek.plus" class="on">valleycreek.plus</a> for resources.</li><li>In your attendance notes, share your conversation around both questions. </li></ul>

GOD’S PROMISES

Believing & Receiving God's Promises

<ol><li>Read Psalms 103:1-13 aloud together. What is the Holy Spirit highlighting for you in this Psalm?&nbsp; </li><li>How are you resting and enjoying God this week? </li><li>What are you celebrating this summer? </li></ol>

Jesus, we pray for families, serve teams, leaders, and staff of Valley Creek to experience rest as we trust in Your goodness.

<ul><li>Visit <a target="_blank" href="https://valleycreek.plus/" alt="valleycreek.plus " class="on">valleycreek.plus </a>for resources.</li><li>In your attendance notes, share your conversation around question #1. </li></ul>

God's Blessing

Dave Scriven, Central Next Gen Pastor

1. Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/mat.6.33" alt="Matthew 6:33">Matthew 6:33</a>. How has your perspective of this promise changed? 2. Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/MAT.6.25-28" alt="Matthew 6:25-28">Matthew 6:25-28</a>,<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/MAT.6.31-34" alt="31-34">31-34</a>. What is it that you are worried about, and which of the four lies of worry do you find yourself believing the most? After identifying those lies, what’s your invitation to trust in God’s promise?The Four Lies of Worry: - Something bad is going to happen - The more I worry, the better my chance of avoiding it - I can’t help but to worry - By worrying, I can control the outcome 3. Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JHN.17.3" alt="John 17:3">John 17:3</a> and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/116/EPH.3.17" alt="Ephesians 3:17 NLT" class="on">Ephesians 3:17 NLT</a>. How can you choose to make Jesus the center and walk in this promise in every area of your life, whether mundane or extraordinary?

Jesus, thank You for the promise of You. May we take our eyes off of life's worries and focus on You and Your promises.

<ul><li>Visit <a target="_blank" href="https://valleycreek.plus/" alt="valleycreek.plus" class="on">valleycreek.plus</a> for resources.</li><li>In your attendance, share your conversation around question #2. </li></ul>

God's Guiding

Sebastian Mancillas, Central Students Director

<ol><li>Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/2692/PRO.3.5-6" alt="Proverbs 3:5-6">Proverbs 3:5-6</a>. As you read this promise, what draws you in? </li><li>How do you think your life would be different if you believed this promise with all your heart? </li><li>Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JAS.1.5" alt="James 1:5">James 1:5</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JAS.1.6-8" alt="James 1:6-8">James 1:6-8</a>, and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/2CO.4.18" alt="2 Corinthians 4:18">2 Corinthians 4:18</a>. Where is doubt getting in the way of God's invitation for you to trust in Him? What do you need to release so you can receive this promise? </li><li>Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/PSA.145.13" alt="Psalms 145:13">Psalms 145:13</a> and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/ROM.8.28" alt="Romans 8:28" class="on">Romans 8:28</a>. We practice trusting God in the tangible now so we can trust Him with the intangible later. Tithing and Sabbath are two areas where we can practice tangible trust. What is the Holy Spirit saying to you about your next step? </li></ol>

Jesus, thank You for Your promise to make our paths straight. May we trust in You with all our hearts!

God's Working

Dawson Shields, Denton Campus Student Director

1. How have you been claiming, declaring, and walking out God’s promises? 2. Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/ROM.8.28-29" alt="Romans 8:28-29">Romans 8:28-29</a>. Take a moment and consider your life’s circumstances, whether you are in a storm, coming out of a storm, or if there may be one on the horizon.&nbsp;<ul><li>If this promise is hard to believe, what’s it costing you?</li><li>If you take a step back, how do you see God working in your life? (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/2CO.4.8-9" alt="2 Corinthians 4:8-9">2 Corinthians 4:8-9</a>)</li><li>How is God shaping your character to be more like Him? (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/GEN.50.20" alt="Genesis 50:20">Genesis 50:20</a>) </li></ul>3. How do you think your life would be different if you believed in this promise and applied it to your daily circumstances going forward?

God, thank You for Your promises that are “yes” and “amen” in Jesus’ name. May we believe You are working things together for our good, and shaping us to be more like You.

<ol><li>Visit <a target="_blank" href="https://valleycreek.plus/" alt="valleycreek.plus " class="on">valleycreek.plus </a>for resources.</li><li>In your attendance, share your conversation around question #2. </li></ol>

God's Fulfilling

Pastor Jason Hillier, Flower Mound Campus

1. Practice plan check in! What’s your practice plan to keep training over the summer? If you’ve already been practicing, how’s it going? (1 Timothy 4:7-8) 2. Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/2CO.1.20" alt="2 Corinthians 1:20">2 Corinthians 1:20</a>. How has your history with broken promises from people kept you from believing that God is fulfilling His promises for you? 3. To activate our faith in God’s profound promises we:<ul><li>Claim It (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JHN.14.14" alt="John 14:14">John 14:14</a>). What promise of God do you need to claim? </li><li>Declare It (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/116/PSA.138.1-2" alt="Psalms 138:1-2 NLT">Psalms 138:1-2 NLT</a>). Are you speaking God's promises over your life, or the enemy's lies? What’s your next step in declaring God’s promises for you?&nbsp; </li><li>Walk It Out (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/PSA.85.8" alt="Psalms 85:8">Psalms 85:8</a>). Where do you need to demonstrate that you believe God’s promises by “acting as if it’s so”? </li></ul>

God, thank You for Your promises that are “yes” and “amen” in Jesus’ name. Help me believe in all the promises You have for me.

<ul><li>Visit <a target="_blank" href="https://valleycreek.plus/" alt="valleycreek.plus" class="on">valleycreek.plus</a> for resources.</li><li>In your attendance, share your conversation around question #3. </li></ul>

Local Campus Experience (May 26)

1. There are so many things happening this summer that will help us live as disciples. What are you most excited about engaging in? 2. As your Campus Pastor shared stories during service, was there one that resonated with you? Why? 3. Read these verses on forgiveness: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/heb.12.15" alt="Hebrews 12:15">Hebrews 12:15</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/116/MAT.18.21-22" alt="Matthew 18:21-22 NLT">Matthew 18:21-22 NLT</a>, and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/1PE.4.8" alt="1 Peter 4:8" class="on">1 Peter 4:8</a>.<ul><li>What do you need to release as we go into summer?</li><li>When will you release it?</li><li>How will you release it?</li><li>What is Jesus teaching you about being a person of love through forgiveness? </li></ul>

Thank You, Jesus, for Your forgiveness. May we be a people who choose forgiveness.

<ul><li>You can download digital resources on <a target="_blank" href="https://valleycreek.plus/" alt="ValleyCreek+" class="on">ValleyCreek+</a>. </li></ul>

Season 2 Review

As we wrapped up Season 2 of A Different Way, we took time to reflect on the questions below. Take time to go through them as a Circle. 1. How has your understanding of what it means to be a disciple of Jesus been changing? 2. How have you been rearranging your life around Jesus and His practices? 3. If repentance starts where excuses end, where is God inviting you to stop making excuses and simply repent? 4. What is your summary statement of this season? 5. What is your practice plan for the summer? Below are some examples:<ul><li>Engage the daily reading plan</li><li>Memorize and meditate on a passage of scripture (Psalms 103:1-13)</li><li>Celebrate the specific goodness of God 30 minutes a week</li><li>Come to church every Sunday</li><li>Relisten to Season 1 and 2 of A Different Way </li></ul>

​Create your practice plan for the summer. Who is someone you can share your plan with to help hold you accountable?

Read the Scriptures below then pray them back over your Circle. <a href="https://www.bible.com/events/49260418" alt="Deuteronomy 11:18-21" class="on">Deuteronomy 11:18-21</a> VOICE/TLB &amp; <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/MAT.11.28-30" alt="Matthew 11:28-30" class="on">Matthew 11:28-30</a>​

<ul><li>You can download digital resources on <a target="_blank" href="https://valleycreek.plus/" alt="ValleyCreek+" class="on">ValleyCreek+</a>. </li></ul>

SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES PRACTICE PLAN

Celebration

1. We are a movement of hope for the city and beyond. We’re all about raising up generations of hope carriers by helping people take the next step on their journey with Jesus.<ul><li>How are you receiving from and contributing to the vision and mission of raising up the next generation God has placed in this family? (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/NEH.4.14" alt="Nehemiah 4:14">Nehemiah 4:14</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/DEU.6.6-7" alt="Deuteronomy 6:6-7">Deuteronomy 6:6-7</a>) </li></ul>2. Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/EXO.16.2-8" alt="Exodus 16:2-3,6-8">Exodus 16:2-3,6-8</a>. God takes both our grumbling and celebrating personally. Would the people in your life say you grumble more or celebrate more? How do you know? 3. As we practiced the discipline of celebrating, what did God show you about His goodness in your life? Was this easy or hard? Why?&nbsp; 4. Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/LUK.10.21" alt="Luke 10:21" class="on">Luke 10:21</a>. Celebration is paying attention and calling attention to the goodness of God. Just like we modeled the discipline of celebration in service, take time to celebrate God’s goodness in your Circle.&nbsp;

Every day this week (when you first wake up or right before you go to sleep), celebrate the specific goodness of God in your life.

Jesus, thank You for calling us to raise up the next generation. May we live a life worthy of the calling You have for us and celebrate Your goodness in our lives.

<ul><li>You can download digital resources on <a target="_blank" href="https://valleycreek.org/connect/" alt="ValleyCreek+">ValleyCreek+</a>.</li><li>Anyone can give or find more information on giving or VCLA scholarships at <a target="_blank" href="https://valleycreek.org/connect/" alt="valleycreek.org/connect">valleycreek.org/connect</a>. </li></ul>

SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES PRACTICE PLAN: CELEBRATE

Meditation, Part Three

Circle leaders, prayerfully consider which two or three questions to focus on with your Circle. In your attendance notes, please provide feedback to your conversation based on the questions you were led to discuss. 1. Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/8/1JN.2.5" alt="1 John 2:5 (AMPC)">1 John 2:5 (AMPC)</a> and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JHN.14.21" alt="John 14:21">John 14:21</a>. We love because God first loved us.<ul><li>How have you been captivated by God’s love?&nbsp;</li><li>How does your obedience to God’s Word reflect this love? </li></ul>2. Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JER.23.29" alt="Jeremiah 23:29">Jeremiah 23:29</a>. Without God’s Word, we are filled with apathy and our hearts become hard. Pastor John shared his summary statement for what God has been doing in his life: “God has lit a fire in my soul that I must attend to.”<ul><li>What are you attending to in your life?</li><li>What are some things you want God to burn up and break down? </li></ul>3. Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/PSA.19.14" alt="Psalms 19:14 ">Psalms 19:14 </a>and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/2CO.10.3-5" alt="2 Corinthians 10:3-5">2 Corinthians 10:3-5</a>. We are only able to think God’s thoughts if we know God’s Word. How will you arrange or rearrange your life to fill your mind with God’s Word? 4. Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/MAT.16.23" alt="Matthew 16:23">Matthew 16:23</a>. Worldly thinking is agreement with darkness and heavenly thinking is agreement with God. There isn’t a third option of "just thinking like a good person."<ul><li>Which way of thinking are your thoughts aligned to? How do you know?</li><li>How are you inspired by your own thinking? If you aren’t, where is God inviting you to confess and repent? </li></ul>5. Read <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bible.com/bible/1588/JHN.5.39-40" alt="John 5:39-40" class="on">John 5:39-40</a>. How is God’s Word leading you to Jesus? If it’s not, what do you need to change or rearrange in your daily life?

<ul><li>Pick a passage</li><li>Keep it in front of you</li><li>Ask the Holy Spirit to illuminate it </li></ul>

Declare Psalm 23 out loud every day this week. You can download digital resources on <a target="_blank" href="https://valleycreek.plus/downloads/psalm-23-phone-wallpaper" alt="ValleyCreek+" class="on">ValleyCreek+</a>.

Jesus, we pray that Your love captivates us, that we may know You through Your Word.

HOW TO MEDITATE 

SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES PRACTICE PLAN: MEDITATION

Rise With The Tide

Just like we had great church on Sunday, we can have a great Circle today.1. We took time this weekend to stay in-step with what God is doing as we cried out, "Jesus, have it all.” <ul> <li>What did you confess and repent?</li><li>What did you let go of to rise with the tide?</li><li>What is God asking you to place on the altar?</li><li>Are you able to say, "Jesus, have it all," and mean it? If not, what are you holding back and why? Song Lyrics: Jesus, have it all. Jesus, have it all. To You belongs the glory; the praise of all the world. Jesus, have it all. Jesus, have it all. Blessing and all honor, all majesty and awe, Jesus, have it all. All my days, all my life, have it all. Have it all. Have all my days. Take all my life. Have it all. </li></ul>

If you haven’t memorized Psalm 23, keep working on it 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>.

Jesus, we pray that You would have it all – our church, our heart, our mind, our soul, and our life. May You be the one thing we seek.

In your attendance notes, please provide feedback to question #1.

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.

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>

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>

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