Summary

The sermon focuses on the need to pivot from our old ways of thinking and seeing things to God's perspective. Using the story of a Canaanite woman's interaction with Jesus, the pastor illustrates how true faith and humility can lead to transformation. The message emphasizes that we must stop conforming to worldly patterns and instead be transformed by renewing our minds through knowing God better, honoring His ways, and speaking His words.

Intro Prayer

Lord, as we gather to discuss Your word, open our hearts and minds to receive what You want to teach us. Help us to be honest with ourselves about areas where we need to pivot from our old ways of thinking to Your perspective. Guide our discussion and help us to encourage one another in faith. Amen.

Ice Breaker

When was the last time you changed your mind about something important? What caused you to change your perspective?

Key Verses

1. Ephesians 4:21-24
2. Matthew 15:21-28
3. Romans 12:2
4. Psalms 145:8-9

Questions

1. What old desires or ways of thinking do you need to pivot away from?
2. How do you typically respond when God calls you to do something uncomfortable?
3. What does it mean to see yourself the way God sees you?
4. How can we better know and understand the heart of God?
5. What prevents you from speaking about your faith more openly?
6. How has your perspective of others changed since becoming a follower of Jesus?
7. What practical steps can you take to renew your mind this week?
8. How can you better honor God with your actions, not just your words?

Life Application

This week, commit to spending dedicated time in prayer each day (perhaps at noon) using the Lord's Prayer as a guide. Pay attention to how this practice affects your perspective and relationships with others.

Key Takeaways

1. Listening to God first is key to seeing yourself and others correctly
2. True transformation requires putting off our old self and putting on the new self in Christ
3. We are called to love God and love others - everything else flows from these commands
4. Our faith should change not just our words but our actions and entire perspective
5. God sees us as mighty warriors capable of more than we imagine

Ending Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for showing us how to see ourselves and others through Your eyes. Help us to pivot away from our old patterns of thinking and embrace Your perspective. Give us courage to live out our faith boldly and to love others as You love them. Transform us through the renewing of our minds and help us to be living testimonies of Your grace. In Jesus' name, Amen.