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Series Resources

sermon-based study guide

This guide is designed to guide a group discussion around the weekend sermon. You can also use this as an individual, but we highly recommend finding a friend and inviting them to discuss with you. Menlo Church has Life Groups meeting in-person and online using these guides. We’d love to help you find a group.
What you will find in this guide: A discussion guide for groups and individuals. If you are using this as an individual be sure to engage with each question in a journal or simply in your mind as you prayerfully consider what you heard in the sermon and seek to discover what God is inviting you to know and do.

For The Bay | Choosing Trust Over Fear

SERIES TITLE: FOR the BAY
SERMON TITLE: Choosing Trust Over Fear
Date: November 10, 2024

Connect

  1. Think of a time when you were really anxious about an outcome but later saw it wasn’t as crucial as you’d thought. What was the situation, and how did it resolve?
  2. How has the “For the Bay” series influenced your understanding of living out your faith in challenging times or moments of uncertainty?

Engage

Scripture Reading:

  • Daniel 2:20-21 
  • Philippians 2:1-11 

Discussion Questions:

  • Daniel reminds us that God has control over everything, including leadership and seasons. Does this bring comfort or challenge you as you think about today’s world? Why?
  • In Philippians 2:1-4, Paul emphasizes humility and unity. When it comes to practicing humility, what do you think is most challenging in your own life, and how does Jesus’ example offer a way forward?
  • Paul describes Jesus’ willingness to “empty Himself” and take the form of a servant (Phil. 2:5-8). How does this example reshape our perspective on power and influence?
  • What are some ways our identity in Christ might guide us to respond differently to divisive issues than those around us?

Apply

Reflection Questions:

  • Reflect on how you react to political or societal changes—do you find yourself feeling anxious or overly attached to outcomes? In what ways does remembering God’s plan help you find peace amid change?
  • What is one practical way you can demonstrate empathy and kindness toward someone who has a different perspective, particularly in areas like politics?
  • Our culture often celebrates individualism and “winning.” How can we instead practice humility and servant-heartedness, following Jesus’ example in Philippians 2?
  • This week, consider a specific relationship where you might prioritize listening and empathy over debating or convincing. What might that look like for you?

Prayer

Encourage everyone to share their prayer needs and take time to pray together.

  • Thank God for His ultimate authority and control over all things, even the aspects of life that feel uncertain.
  • Pray for wisdom and courage to live out humility and unity, reflecting Jesus’ love to those around us.
  • Ask for a spirit of peace and trust in God’s larger plan, especially during divisive times.

Going Deeper

Menlo Midweek Podcast
Join the Menlo Midweek Podcast every Wednesday for an in-depth conversation that dives into the week’s message with stories, insights, and practical applications. 

Serve Your Community
Explore outreach opportunities through our church’s Outreach and Missions page, where you can actively share the hope and love of God with our neighbors across the Bay Area. Jesus calls us to serve beyond our comfort zones, and you can be part of that impact. 

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