Contentment | One Joy

Follow Along with the Message

1. Doing Life

As a church family, we care about each other’s lives: what we’re celebrating, what we’re mourning, what decisions we are praying through, and everything in between 

(1 Thessalonians 2:8, Romans 12:10, 15). Suggested time: 10-20 minutes 

• How are you doing? 
• What can you thank God for this week?
• When were you most aware of Jesus’ presence this week? When were you least aware of Jesus’ presence this week?
• Do you have any practical needs?

2. Jesus Centered

God uses His Word to reveal Himself to us, equip us to live the good life He’s designed for us, show us our sin, and strengthen us as we follow Him (2 Timothy 3:16-17, Colossians 1:9-12, and James 1:22-25). Suggested Time: 20-40 minutes 

(Sermon Discussion Questions)  The Secret of Contentment

Primary Scripture Passage:  Philippians 4: 10-20

1.       While you might find Philippians 4:13 on coffee mugs and T-shirts, the verse is often used out of context.  In light of what Paul says he has learned in verses 10-11, how might you re-word verse 13?
2.       Reflect upon times that you have practiced “situational contentment” with the phrase “If I had ___________, then I would be content.”
3.       Share an example of something that you once strived after, perhaps even coveted, and then once you had it you were left unsatisfied.
4.       When Paul speaks of being content in “whatever situation” and in “any and every circumstance” he specifically mentions four stages of life; which of these can you identify with as being particularly difficult to remain content?
5.       In the rise (abounding)
6.       At the top (plenty)
7.       In the decline (humbled)
8.       At the bottom (hungry and in need)
9.       Many of our desires are good and God-given but become distorted due to the presence of sin. 
10.       What are some of the forces and influences with which we do battle as we pursue the inner peace of contentment in our hearts?
11.       Who is our source of hope in the midst of the battle?
12.       According to verse 19, why can we have confidence as we struggle with contentment?

3. Engaging the Heart

Jesus calls us to walk in the light, confessing our sins to God and each other. God’s Spirit works through confession and community to lead us to repentance. (Romans 3:23-24, James 5:16 and 1 John 1:5-10) Suggested Time: 10-20 minutes 

• How are you doing abiding with Jesus this week in Scripture and prayer? 
• What sin do you need to confess to God? What are you struggling to trust Jesus with this week? How can you give Him control of it? (As people confess sin, make sure to remind one another of the good news Jesus offers.)

4. Expanding the Kingdom

Just like God the Father sent Jesus on a mission of reconciliation for us, Jesus sends us out as ambassadors of His reconciliation. We are called to make disciples wherever we go. (John 20:21 and 2 Corinthians 5:18-20) Suggested time: 10-20 minutes

• People: Who in your life can you be building with right now? What does that look like during this season? 
• Plan: Are there any rhythms planned (virtual or in-person) that we can invite these friends into? What spiritual conversations do you want to initiate with them soon? 
• Pray: Let’s pray for our people by name; pray for their needs, opportunities to connect, and opportunities to have spiritual conversations that help them take next steps toward Jesus.