Groups Discussion Guide
Read Scripture. Go Deeper. Ask Questions. Take Action.
It's Who You Know
Scripture
1The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
2He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
3he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
for his name's sake.
4Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
5You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
6Surely your goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
forever.
Main Idea
When we read Psalm 23 we see the good that God promises us, but it's not about the provisions. It's about our position. If the first part of verse 1 is true: "The Lord is my shepherd" then the second part will be. David equates us to sheep who need a shepherd. If we take the position of someone in need of shepherding, we'll live lacking nothing. Our culture tells us that living without lack is just on the other side of that "one thing" we're striving for. And that's where our drive and ambition tends to come from, but our relationship with our shepherd is what will satisfy us. In Matthew 19 God asks us to give up everything to seek Him. Which seems counterintuitive, but surrender is what truly brings us to having what we need. Enough isn't found in what you've got, it's in who you know.
No surrender, no supply.
Discussion Questions
- What do you feel you may be lacking in your life right now?
- What is driving you as you chase after those things? What's at the core of your "I need more?"
- What is the most difficult part for you to surrender to our Shepherd?
Summary
Feeling as though we are lacking is something we're used to and sometimes can't imagine what our life could look like without it. But by knowing God as our shepherd, we will never not have enough. We'll always have sufficient supply--even leftovers. We can't find enough on our own, but by seeking the Lord and allowing him to lead us, we'll have everything we need. In this, our feeling of lack will no longer be what drives us forward but rather the path God lays out for us.
Take Action
- Read Psalm 23 every day.
- Read the story of the rich, young ruler in Matthew 19.
Announcements
- Child dedications are on April 28 at the 8:30am & 9:45am services. Register at vel.city/dedication.
- YOCO meets every Sunday at 6:30pm at the church. If you're between the ages of 18 and 30, join us for fun and connection.
