August 23 Small Group Guide

Primary Scripture: Ephesians 2:10 

Supporting Scriptures: John 10:10; Romans 12:2; Philippians 1:6; Matthew 5:14–16 

Big Idea: God created us for more not necessarily more success, possessions, or recognition, but more  purpose, growth, freedom, and influence. You were made to know God, become who He created you to be,  and make a difference wherever He has placed you.  

Opener  

1. When you were younger, what did you imagine you would be doing at this point in your life? 

2. What is something you were created or trained to do well?  

3. Where do people commonly look for purpose and significance?  

4. Have you ever experienced a season when you wondered, “Is this all there is?”  

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God   9  not  by works, so that no one can boast.  10  For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good  works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:8-10  

1. What word or phrase from this passage stands out to you?  

2. What does it mean to be God’s “handiwork”?  

3. Why is it important to understand that we are not saved by good works but saved for good works?  

4. How does this passage challenge the belief that our lives are accidental or insignificant?  

1. You Were Made on Purpose God describes you as His handiwork something intentionally created. Your  value does not begin with what you accomplish. It begins with the One who created you. Disappointment,  failure, rejection, and the opinions of others may affect how you see yourself, but they do not determine your  worth.  

Key Thought: Before you ever accomplished anything, God had already placed value on you.  

Discuss  

1. What are some unhealthy ways people try to prove their value?  

2. Which experiences or voices have most influenced the way you see yourself?  

3. Is it easier for you to see God’s craftsmanship in others or in yourself? Why?  

4. How would believing that God made you intentionally change the way you approach life?  

5. What ability, personality trait, or life experience might God have placed in you for a purpose?  

2. You Were Saved for Something God’s grace does more than rescue us from our past. It releases us into  His purpose. Like a restored boat that was meant to return to the water, we are restored so that our lives can  be used. God calls us to love, serve, encourage, forgive, give, and carry hope to others.  

Key Thought: God’s grace does not simply rescue us from our past; it releases us into His purpose.  

Discuss  

1. What is the difference between being saved by good works and being saved for good works?  

2. Why is it easy for Christians to remain safely “tied to the dock”?  

3. How has receiving God’s grace changed the way you treat other people?  

4. Which of these roles feels most natural to you? 

o Bringing peace into tense situations  

o Helping people who feel overlooked  

o Serving practical needs  

o Sharing hope 

 o Being a faithful presence  

5. Where might God want to work through you right now?  

3. More Begins Where You Are We often imagine that our purpose will begin sometime later when we have  more time, more knowledge, fewer problems, or better circumstances. However, God’s purpose usually begins  with the people, opportunities, gifts, and needs already in front of us. 

Read Matthew 5:14–16.  

Key Thought: You don’t have to do everything to do something meaningful.  

Discuss  

1. Why do we sometimes overlook ordinary opportunities while waiting for something bigger?  

2. Where has God currently placed you?  

3. Who is one person within your present circle of influence whom you could encourage or help?  

4. What need have you noticed recently that you may be able to meet?  

5. What does it look like to “let your light shine” without seeking attention for yourself?  

6. Share an example of a small act that made a meaningful difference in your life.  

4. More Requires Leaving Something Behind Read Romans 12:2.  We often want the new life God offers while still holding tightly to the thoughts, habits, hurts, and fears that  keep us from experiencing it. Like a trapeze artist releasing one bar to reach the next, faith sometimes requires  us to release what is familiar so we can take hold of what God has next.  

Key Thought: Sometimes the greatest barrier to what God wants to do next is what we refuse to release from  yesterday.  

Discuss  

1. What old patterns commonly keep people from moving forward?  

2. How does renewing our minds help transform our lives?  

3. Which is most difficult for you to release: fear, resentment, regret, control, comfort, or the approval of  others?  

4. How can we tell the difference between God calling us forward and simply becoming restless?  

5. What might God be asking you to leave behind?  

6. How can this group support you as you take that step?  

5. Your Best Contribution May Still Be Ahead Read Philippians 1:6.  God used Moses in his later years, Ruth after deep loss, Peter after public failure, and Paul during  imprisonment. Your assignment may change with the seasons, but your usefulness does not expire.  

Key Thought: As long as God has given you breath, He still has a purpose for your life.  

Discuss  

1. What circumstances can make someone feel that their most meaningful days are over?  

2. Which biblical person’s story reminds you that God can use anyone in any season?  

3. Has a difficult experience equipped you to help someone else? If so, how?  

4. What wisdom, experience, ability, or resource could you offer others during this season?  

5. Is there a gift or interest within you that has never been fully developed? 

6. What would it look like to believe that your best contribution may still be ahead?  

This Week’s Challenge Complete the following sentence:  

Because I was made for more, this week I will ____________________________.  

Possible next steps include:  

Encourage each person to choose one action that is specific and realistic.