Under the Surface
 Slowing Down to Look

Pastor Kirk, Sept 8^th, 2019

Scripture: Exodus 2:11-3:10, John 15:1-17

Summary:    Moses withdraws into the desert to deal with what was hidden within his soul and find God.

Main Though: You have to slowdown to see what’s under the surface and become what Jesus envisions

Getting to Know Each Other (Start Here): 

• Share about a trip where you found something unexpected because you slowed down or got lost.
• What part of Moses’ life sticks out in your mind?
• Do you know the meaning of your name?

Going Deeper: 

1. Read John 15:1-17 – What does it mean to abide in Christ? What does it look and feel like for you to abide in Christ? What are the “abiding” actions in your life?   How does God shape who we are (identity) when you abide in him and what are the signs or fruit of this shaping?
2. Pastor Kirk talked about how Moses marked his shaping with the names of his kids. What are the moments in your life that mark the work God has done in changing you? Share your significant character shaping moments.  If you can’t think of any, take a moment to listen to God and what He identifies as a major moment. 
3. Sometimes we fear slowing down or going to the desert. Why do you think this is?  What is the fear that keeps you from slowing down or withdrawing to be with God regularly? 
4. Read 1 Kings 19:1-8 – Moses had the well; Elijah had the stream. God provides for us in our wilderness. Has God ever supplied for you when you slowed down or withdrew to the wilderness? Share your story of slowing down and God providing. Spend time together in prayer, praising God for His grace and mercy.
5. Why do you think God allowed Elijah to speak to Him the way he did? Have you ever talked to God like that? What does Elijah’s encounter with God in the wilderness reveal to you about the character of God? 
6. Pastor Kirk talked about needing a rhythm of time in the desert and time in the market. Do you agree?  Why or why not?  What is the purpose of the desert and what is the purpose of the market?  What does the rhythm of market and desert look like in your life? 

Apply it:

• How could you create moments of ‘desert’ in your daily life?
• What is the Holy Spirit saying to you?

Pray without ceasing:

Our partner church in Moncton is hosting a Soul Care conference the third week of Oct. Pray that the 25 pastoral couples who are being invited as well as many citizens of Moncton would attend and be renewed by the Holy Spirit. Pray that Resurrection Church would continue to impact their community and bring the gospel into their neighborhoods.

Community Reading Plan: 1 Samuel 7-12

This week add 1 Samuel 7 to 12 to your devotions. Read a chapter a day up to and including chapter 12. Look at the relationships that are present in these chapters and keep two questions in mind.

• What do I need to know from this chapter (a truth about my reality or God or a life lesson)?
• What do I need to grow (Is there something God is trying to teach me through His Word)?

 Keep a journal nearby and write down any questions or thoughts you can share with your Community Group.  Remind and encourage each other to participate in this group devotion.