Malachi #6 Life Group Guide: "Righteousness and Legacy"
Malachi #6 Life Group Guide: "Righteousness and Legacy"
Opening Prayer
Key Takeaways:
1. God desires true devotion and reverence from His people.
2. Righteousness comes through faith in Jesus, not our own perfection.
3. Our legacy is determined by how we respond to God's word and live our lives.
Discussion Questions:
1. What stood out to you most from the sermon? Why?
2. PJ mentions people questioning "What's the point?" of serving God. Have you ever felt this way? How did you overcome it?
3. How do you understand the concept of fearing the Lord? What does it look like practically in your life?
4. Reflect on the idea of the "scroll of remembrance." How does it make you feel knowing God treasures those who honor Him?
5. PJ’s message emphasizes the difference between claiming to follow Jesus and truly revering His name. How can we ensure our faith is genuine and not just seeking benefits?
6. Discuss the challenges of living a life fully devoted to God in today's world. What are some common obstacles?
7. How does understanding Jesus as our righteousness impact the way we approach our relationship with God?
Practical Applications:
1. Self-reflection: Take time this week to honestly evaluate your devotion to God. Are there areas where you've been half-hearted?
2. Accountability: Partner with someone in the group to encourage each other in living out your faith more fully.
3. Scripture meditation: Spend time reflecting on Malachi 3:16-18 this week. Journal your thoughts on what it means to fear the Lord and honor His name.
4. Act of service: Choose one way to serve others this week as an expression of your devotion to God.
5. Gratitude practice: Each day, write down one way you've seen God's righteousness or faithfulness in your life.
Closing Prayer:
Thank God for His patience and desire for our true devotion. Ask for His help in living lives that truly honor Him and reflect His righteousness.
Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide:
Day 1: God's Unfailing Love
Reading: Malachi 3:13-18
Devotional: Despite our complaints and doubts, God's love for us remains steadfast. He listens intently when we turn to Him in reverence, treasuring those who honor His name. Today, reflect on times you've questioned God's presence or love. How can you cultivate a heart that fears the Lord and honors Him, even in difficult seasons? Remember, your name is written in His book of remembrance when you choose to serve Him faithfully.
Day 2: The Power of Righteousness
Reading: Romans 3:10-26
Devotional: We often struggle with feelings of unworthiness, knowing our own failures and shortcomings. Yet, through Christ, we are made righteous before God. This gift of righteousness isn't earned but freely given. How does this truth change your perspective on your relationship with God? Take time to thank Him for His grace and consider how you can live in response to this unmerited gift of righteousness.
Day 3: Preparing for the Day of the Lord
Reading: Malachi 4:1-6
Devotional: The promise of God's judgment can be both comforting and challenging. For those who revere God's name, it brings hope of justice and healing. How does the reality of God's coming judgment influence your daily choices? Reflect on areas of your life where you need to align more closely with God's will. Pray for the Holy Spirit to guide you in living a life that honors God in anticipation of His return.
Day 4: Christ, Our Sun of Righteousness
Reading: Luke 1:76-79
Devotional: Jesus is described as the "sun of righteousness" who brings healing and light. In what areas of your life do you need His healing rays to shine? Consider how Christ's righteousness has brought light to your darkness and freedom from sin. How can you reflect His light to others who are still in darkness? Ask God to use you as an instrument of His healing and hope in your community.
Day 5: Remembering God's Instructions
Reading: Psalm 119:9-16
Devotional: God's final plea in Malachi is to remember His instructions. The Psalmist shows us how to treasure God's word in our hearts. What practices help you engage deeply with Scripture? Reflect on how God's word has guided and transformed you. Commit to hiding His word in your heart, not just for knowledge, but for life transformation. Ask the Holy Spirit to bring God's truths to mind throughout your day, guiding your actions and attitudes.
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