Sermon: Renewal Part 8 - Renewal of Vitality

Everyone is encouraged to bring a Bible (Phone apps are good for reading together in the same translation. Study Bibles give help with interpretation.)

1. Icebreaker question: Some people seem to have a “green thumb” when it comes to successfully helping plants grow. How are your own skills in the garden or flowerbed?

2. The sermon was based on Isaiah 37:31 and Colossians 2:6-10 (review the passages if you need to). Review the main points and ideas of the sermon. What stood out to you? Do you have any questions to bring up?

3. Read Jeremiah 17:5-8

a) How does this passage relate to the sermon?

b) Why is it so costly to put our trust in human strength? Have you experienced this cost in your own life? In what ways?

c) What are the results of putting our trust in the Lord?

d) Have you ever experienced an especially fruitful season without worry because your trust in the Lord was so strong? What was that like?

e) Are you aware of anything in your life that you are currently putting your security in more than the Lord?

4. Read Psalm 92:12-15

a) Under what conditions can we expect to grow and mature as Christians?

b) What are the benefits of taking time to worship God?

c) How does our attitude affect what kind of nourishment we receive when we go to church?

d) What do you think it looks like to “bear fruit in old age”?

e) What steps can we take to "stay fresh and green" in our faith?

f) When might you be able to spend some extra time in prayer and meditation this week?

5. Take some time to pray for renewal of vitality in your lives. Offer up anything to the Lord that has been competing with your trust in Him. Ask for the Lord’s help to stay firmly rooted in Him.