MEETING 1: EVERYTHING

WORKOUT

ENOUGH IS [NOT] ENOUGH

In the book of Acts, a man named Saul was extremely successful and appeared to have everything he needed in life. He was Jewish, yet He was also a Roman citizen, which gave him unusual favor and influence. He was also educated and articulate in both political and theological settings.

In his mind, he was fulfilling his divine calling. But he couldn’t have been more wrong.

Unfortunately, Saul used his resources and influence to rally mobs of religious zealots against the world’s first believers. He was even present at the first recorded public execution of a Christian (Acts 6–7).

Saul was one of the witnesses, and he agreed with the killing of Stephen.

“A great wave of persecution began that day, sweeping over the church in Jerusalem; and all the believers except the apostles were scattered through the regions of Judea and Samaria. But Saul was going everywhere to destroy the church. He went from house to house, dragging out both men and women to throw them into prison.” — Acts 8:1, 3

Q: Why do you think Saul was so sure of himself yet wrong in his actions and attitudes?

Q: How do you think having “everything” (material success, abilities, resources, etc.) might cause someone to go against God’s plan for their life?

MORE THAN ENOUGH

Like Saul, when we seek the things we need in the wrong places or when we think we have what we need and act irresponsibly in that false reality, we can often damage ourselves and those around us.

Here’s the good news: the answer to the question of purpose, self-worth, and acceptance always comes back to God. He is all-powerful, loves us unconditionally, and gives us everything we need for a full life.

God is always more than enough.

“And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:19

God created you out of His perfect love.

“So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them;

male and female he created them.” — Genesis 1:27

And when fellowship was broken because of sin (Genesis 3), His love set into motion a master plan that would bring us back into a relationship with Him.

“God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure.” — Ephesians 1:5

Furthermore, He created you on purpose, for a purpose.

“And this is the plan: At the right time he will bring everything together under the authority of Christ—everything in heaven and on earth. Furthermore, because we are united with Christ, we have received an inheritance from God, for he chose us in advance, and he makes everything work out according to his plan.” — Ephesians 1:10–11

God also gave you goals, dreams, and desires related to that purpose, and He equipped you with the abilities, resources, and relationships to fulfill it.

“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” — Ephesians 2:10

But the only way to tap into everything that God has for you is to surrender everything and put Him first in your life.

“Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.” — Matthew 6:33

Q: What are some things you’re holding on to (control, bad habits, bad attitudes, etc.) that might be holding back what God wants to give you?

Q: How do you think living by Matthew 6:33 might change your life both on the field of competition and throughout all areas of your life?