Message Details

Sermon Series Name: Grow

Message Title: Peace

Short Summary:
In a world filled with overwhelming pressures, both sudden and cumulative, we often find ourselves struggling under the weight of life's challenges. Pastor Carter's message explores how the Apostle Paul and Jesus' disciples faced immense pressures and how we, too, can find peace through the presence of the Holy Spirit. By embracing the Holy Spirit as our divine spotter, we can experience God's peace even in the most unpeaceful circumstances.

Icebreaker Question:
What's the heaviest physical object you've ever tried to lift, and what did you learn from that experience? (This connects to the theme of being overwhelmed by life's pressures and needing help.)

Review of the Previous Week’s "I Will" Statement:
Reflect on last week's commitment: I will do what love requires of me. Can you share an instance where you acted out of love, even when it was challenging? In what ways did you see God working through your actions of love?

Five Discussion Questions (Core Focus):

1. Reflecting on the Message:
   Pastor Carter highlighted the pressures Paul faced in 2 Corinthians 1:8-9. Can you share a time when you felt overwhelmed by life's pressures? How did you respond, and where did you see God in that situation?
2. Understanding the Holy Spirit's Role:
   Jesus promised the Holy Spirit as a comforter and counselor in John 14:26-27. How do you understand the role of the Holy Spirit in your life? Share an experience where you felt the Holy Spirit's presence or guidance.
3. Personal Struggles with Peace:
   Todd's message discussed the difference between peace and peacefulness. Describe a situation where you had peace despite the absence of peacefulness. What did that teach you about God's peace?
4. Accumulated Stress and Its Impact:
   Todd mentioned "stress contamination" from small, cumulative pressures. What are some small pressures in your life that have added up? How can you invite the Holy Spirit to help you manage these?
5. Embracing the Holy Spirit's Presence:
   In his message, Todd encouraged us to embrace the Holy Spirit as our spotter. What practical steps can you take this week to be more aware of the Holy Spirit's presence and to rely on Him for peace?

This Week’s "I Will" Statement:
I will surrender my weights and pressures to God's Holy Spirit, allowing Him to be my spotter and source of peace.

Prayer Prompts:

1. General Prayer Requests:
   Begin by asking if anyone has specific prayer requests they would like to share.
2. Prayer for Surrender:
   Pray for the courage and willingness to surrender personal weights and pressures to the Holy Spirit, trusting Him to provide peace.
3. Prayer for Awareness:
   Ask God to heighten your awareness of the Holy Spirit's presence in your daily life, helping you to rely on His strength and guidance.

Rewatch the Message:
For those who want to revisit the message, you can watch it again at www.pathwaychurch.com/messages.