Navigating Life From The Cross

How to Plan a Godly Life

In this video, Pastor Scott Thom emphasizes the importance of living godly through purposeful actions and spiritual disciplines. He outlines five key practices for cultivating a vibrant Christian life: prioritizing active learning and applying God's word, seeking wisdom from older Christians, disciplining the body, dedicating time for private prayer, and mentoring the next generation. These steps help believers grow spiritually, live authentically, and give others wisdom.

Discussion Questions:

1. How can you prioritize learning and actively apply God's teachings in your daily life?
2. How have older Christians mentored or influenced your spiritual growth? How can you seek their wisdom?
3. Why is bodily discipline (e.g., fasting or exercising) necessary for spiritual growth, and how can you practice it?
4. How can you create a consistent, quiet space for prayer and connect with God more deeply?
5. Who can you mentor in your community, and how can you pass on the wisdom you've gained through your experiences?

Prayer Points:

1. For Wisdom and Understanding—Pray for the ability to not just gain knowledge but to apply it wisely in all areas of life.
2. For Discipleship and Mentorship – Ask God to help you find and be a mentor to others, especially the younger generation.
3. For Strength to Discipline Your Body – Pray for the strength to resist temptations and practice self-control in physical and spiritual matters.
4. For Focus in Prayer – Pray for a quiet space to have uninterrupted time with God and be open and honest in your prayers.
5. For Spiritual Growth – Ask God to help you actively live out your faith and bring transformation to your life and the lives of others.

Action Steps:

1. Commit to applying one new learning from the Bible this week to your life in a visible way.
2. Reach out to an older Christian for guidance or wisdom, asking specific questions that invite mentorship.
3. Implement a physical discipline practice such as fasting or regular exercise with a spiritual focus.
4. Set aside 15 minutes of uninterrupted, private prayer each day to connect with God.
5. Find a young person or new believer to mentor, sharing both your successes and failures.

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Peace in Suffering Romans 5

In this sermon, Pastor Scott Thom explores Romans Chapter 5, emphasizing the peace and grace that come through faith in Jesus Christ. He discusses how believers, once enemies of God due to sin, are now justified by faith and given peace with God and the peace of God. Pastor Thom highlights that suffering and trials are not only inevitable but serve to build perseverance, character, and hope. Through this process, Christians can find purpose even in affliction. He encourages believers to embrace the love of God, which remains unwavering despite challenges.

Discussion Questions:

1. How does understanding "peace with God" change your perspective on your relationship with Him?
2. What is the difference between the "peace of God" and "peace with God"?
3. How can suffering in your life help build perseverance and character?
4. Why do you think trials are essential in the process of sanctification?
5. How do you respond to challenges knowing that God’s love for you is unconditional?

Prayer Points:

1. For Peace: Ask God to help you experience both the peace with God through justification and the peace of God in your daily life.
2. In Times of Suffering, Pray for strength and perseverance through trials, trusting that they are building character and hope in you.
3. For God's Love: Thank God for His unwavering love, which is demonstrated through Jesus Christ, and ask Him to remind you of His love in moments of doubt or struggle.
4. For Growth in Christ: Pray for the Holy Spirit’s work in sanctifying you so that you may become more like Jesus each day.

Action Steps:

1. Embrace Peace: Reflect on your standing with God, understanding that you have peace with Him through faith in Christ.
2. Persevere Through Trials: When facing challenges, remember that these are opportunities to grow in perseverance and character. Lean into God’s strength during hard times.
3. Pray Daily: Set aside time to connect with God in prayer, seeking His peace and guidance as you navigate life's difficulties.
4. Encourage Others: Share this message with someone who may be struggling, offering them hope through God’s grace and love.