How often do we find ourselves praying for our own ‘kingdom’ to come rather than God’s kingdom? What might change if we shifted our focus in prayer?
In what ways can we practically build God’s kingdom in our daily lives, using the ‘kingdom values’ mentioned in the sermon?
How does the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector challenge our understanding of humility and righteousness before God?
What does it mean for us to let God’s will be done ‘on earth as it is in heaven’ in our personal lives and communities?
How can we cultivate an awareness of God’s goodness and unfailing love pursuing us throughout our day-to-day experiences?
In what areas of your life do you find it most challenging to surrender your will to God’s will? Why do you think that is?
How might our lives and relationships change if we consistently approached challenges with the mindset of building God’s kingdom rather than our own?
What role does scripture and community play in helping us discern and follow God’s will for our lives?
How can we balance praying for our personal needs and desires with seeking God’s kingdom and will first?
In what ways can we be ‘salt and light’ in our specific contexts to help expand God’s kingdom and influence others positively?
Personal Ambitions vs. God’s Kingdom:
- Discuss the things you really want in life. How do these compare with the idea of building God’s kingdom?
- Are there any desires or ambitions that might need to be re-evaluated in light of seeking God’s will?
Building God’s Kingdom:
- What activities or values can we incorporate into daily life to help build God’s kingdom as a family?
- How can we better serve others, help the poor, or show love to our “enemies”?
Prayer Perspectives:
- The sermon talked about not praying “Let my kingdom come.” How can we adjust our prayers to focus on God’s kingdom and will?
- What might be some practical ways to include praying for God’s will in our family’s prayer routine?
Values and Actions:
- The sermon highlighted several kingdom values like protecting children, serving others, and being salt and light. Which of these do you find most challenging and why?
- How have you seen these values make a difference in the lives of others?
Goodness and Unfailing Love:
- How do you interpret the idea of God’s “goodness and unfailing love” pursuing you? Can you share a time when you felt this was true?
- Share some ways we can remind each other daily of God’s presence and goodness.
Overcoming Temptations:
- The sermon used a playful analogy of being tempted and tripped up. What are some real-life temptations that try to steer us away from focusing on God’s kingdom?
- Discuss strategies we can use to stay focused and not “trip” over these challenges.
Listening to God:
- How do you currently spend time listening to God? Are there any new practices or habits that might help us as a family to better hear God’s direction?
- What role does reading the Bible play in understanding God’s will for us?
Family Projects/Goals:
- Consider a family project or goal that aligns with building God’s kingdom. What might that look like for us, and how can each member contribute?
Everyday Opportunities:
- In what everyday situations can we be more mindful of living out kingdom values? How can we hold each other accountable to these values?
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