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.
November 17, 2024 For The Bay - Choosing Staying Over Going
Date - November 17, 2024
Series - FOR the Bay
Title - Choosing Staying Over Going
1. Connect
- Have you ever had the urge to leave a place or situation? What made you feel that way, and what happened in the end?
- What do you think of when you hear the term “rooted”? Do you associate it more with strength, staying power, or something else?
2. Engage
Read: Philippians 2:12-18; Galatians 6:9
- In Philippians 2:14-16, Paul urges believers to do everything without grumbling or arguing. How can living out this instruction help believers shine as "lights in the world"? What impact does this have on those around us?
- Choosing to stay rooted can be challenging in a world that often celebrates quick changes and easy exits. What does it look like for you to stay steadfast in this community, workplace, or neighborhood, even when leaving might seem easier?
- In light of Galatians 6:9, which encourages us not to grow weary in doing good, how can we remain steadfast in our efforts to serve and support others, especially during challenging times?
3. Apply
- Choose one area of your life (work, family, or community) where you can intentionally invest time and energy over the next season. What specific steps can you take to deepen your commitment and create a lasting impact?
- Inspired by Paul’s example of pouring himself out, plan a specific act of service this week where you prioritize others’ needs over your own. What can you give—time, energy, or resources—to bless someone in your life?
- Think of a situation where you’re feeling drained or on the edge of burnout. What would it look like to rely more on God’s strength than your own? Choose a specific time each day to pause and pray, asking for renewal and guidance.
4. Prayer
Take time to pray for each other and the week ahead.
- Share any personal prayer needs with each other.
- Thank God for His faithfulness and presence in our lives, and ask Him to help us build resilience in our faith and commitment to our community.
- Pray for courage to stay and invest in the people and places God has put in your life, trusting that He has purpose for you here.
5. Going Deeper
Additional resources and next steps for further engagement.
Menlo Midweek Podcast
Each Wednesday, listen for a deeper dive into the sermon with insights, stories, and practical applications from the speaker. [Listen here]
Outreach Opportunities
Explore our Outreach and Missions page for ways to serve neighbors across the Bay Area and beyond. [Find out here]