Groups Discussion Guide
Read Scripture. Go Deeper. Ask Questions. Take Action.
Move Forward
Scripture
48 When the Philistine started forward to attack him, David ran quickly to the battle line to meet the Philistine. 49 David put his hand in the bag, took out a stone, slung it, and hit the Philistine on his forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and he fell facedown to the ground. 50 David defeated the Philistine with a sling and a stone. David overpowered the Philistine and killed him without having a sword. 51 David ran and stood over him. He grabbed the Philistine’s sword, pulled it from its sheath, and used it to kill him. Then he cut off his head. When the Philistines saw that their hero was dead, they fled.
Main Idea
Obedience to God requires that you move forward. David would have never experienced the greatest victory of his life had he stood still. Move forward through your giants so you can experience the victory God is calling you to.
Never underestimate the battles you fight in secret. They are preparing you for a public victory.
Discussion Questions
- What giants stand in your way as you move toward God's purpose in your life?
- How can you be sure that you have fully defeated the giants in your life?
- The enemy tends to distract us from facing forward. How can you identify and eliminate distractions?
- What is the next move that you need to make as you move toward God's purpose?
Summary
Jesus has already won a great victory for us. God calls us to pursue that victory. Oftentimes in this pursuit, we face giants. Our giants can be personal and private. Or they can be public. To move forward to fight the large public battles, you first have to fight the private battles. In 1 Samuel 17, David fought a very public battle against Goliath. But before that, David fought many smaller private battles. David's family was a source of resistance while he pursued his destiny. The tactic of the enemy is to distract us from our aims. If you want to move forward to victory, it starts with a forward focus. The narrative of the past can stop you from moving forward. Be more concerned with what is in front of you instead of what is behind you. Victories, even if they seem small, can equip you to face a bigger challenge. God uses challenges to cultivate strength. Instead of running from battles, move forward and lean in. And when you face giants, do not be satisfied with stunning them. Kill them completely. God wants total, complete victory for you. Move toward the victory that Jesus has already won.
Take Action
- Pray about some ways in which you can move forward. Consider stepping across the line of faith and finding ways to serve in church, invite others to share in your faith, or give financially.
- During your Bible studies this week, find other examples of God's people conquering giants.
- Send an encouraging text to someone that you haven't recently.
Announcements
- Next weekend is a message about the new SNZ: Miracles Ahead, Miracles Now.
- Pastor Kevin Gerald will be joining us for a special message on Sunday February 18th.
