Godly Contentment - Pt 1: “Settled or Settling”

Today we kicked off a new series on godly contentment. Often we long to experience a sense of peace and satisfaction yet it seems elusive or short-lived. We read in the scripture that God offers us peace, yet it is often just a wish and not a true experience for many. The reality is that God’s gift of peace is available for us, if only we can face the idols we too often turn to for peace, and instead learn to receive it from Jesus. May we experience the grace and peace that He offers! Discussion Questions: 1. Can you share 1 or 2 things that bring you a sense of peace or satisfaction? What about something that steals your peace? How might this help expose a priority that is out of place? 2. Read James Hastings quote on how grace and peace go hand in hand: “Grace is the sum of blessing bestowed, from God. Peace the sum of blessing experienced.” Can you think of a time when God’s grace was present in a difficult situation, and even though it was difficult you experienced his peace in the midst of it? Can you reflect back on a time when you were in a difficult situation and you know now that God’s grace was there to help you, but you missed it at the time? Why do you think we miss His grace at times? 3. In the sermon we discussed that experiencing God’s peace comes through attachment to Him (since he is the only source of true peace). What role does worship play in being attached to God and experiencing peace in His presence (read & discuss Psalm 100 for some direction)? 4. This week’s “worship response” is meditation - what are some ways we can practice meditating on God’s Word and His ways? Why is meditation so beneficial in experiencing peace? What is one step you can take this week to be more intentional to receive peace from God?