Sermon Recap 🎬
Pastor begins the sermon by addressing the misconception of the "happiness gospel," which suggests that God's primary desire for us is to be happy. He argues that prioritizing happiness over holiness can lead to spiritual confusion and ultimately to a disconnection from God. Instead, Pastor emphasizes that while God cares about our happiness, His ultimate goal for us is holiness, which can lead to true fulfillment. The message encourages listeners to reflect on their pursuits and to seek a deeper relationship with God, recognizing that true joy comes from spiritual growth rather than the temporary pleasures of life.
Ice Breaker 🧊
If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, but it had to be a food that you absolutely dislike, what would you choose?
Discussion Questions 💬
What does it mean to pursue holiness over happiness, and why is it important?
Pastor emphasized that God cares about our happiness but that holiness should be our highest priority.
Can you think of a situation where you chose to pursue temporary happiness instead of a choice that would have led to holiness? How might you approach it differently next time?
How does the 'happiness gospel' affect our relationship with God?
The sermon discussed how believing that God's main goal is our happiness can cause people to leave the church when they don't feel happy.
Reflect on a time when you didn't feel happy despite doing the right thing. How did that impact your faith, and how did you respond?
In what ways does the scripture 'You are my lord; apart from you, I have no good thing' (Psalm 16:2) challenge the way we view happiness?
Pastor pointed out that true joy is found in God alone, rather than in material possessions or temporary pleasures.
How can you focus more on your relationship with God this week to find joy beyond material things?
Why do you think many people justify their actions when pursuing what makes them happy?
The sermon mentioned that we often rationalize our sins when we prioritize our happiness over holiness.
Can you identify an excuse you've made for a choice in your life? How might that choice have changed if you prioritized holiness instead?
What steps can you take to ensure your pursuit is directed towards a deeper relationship with God?
Pastor encouraged the group to consider what changes they need to make in their lives to prioritize their relationship with God above all else.
What specific action or commitment can you make this week to strengthen your relationship with God?
Prayer 🙏
• Ask God to help us prioritize holiness over happiness in our daily choices.
• Pray for the strength to pursue a deeper relationship with Him this week.
• Request assistance in recognizing and addressing anything in our lives that may distract us from our purpose in Him.
• Take time to share any personal prayer requests with the group.