Firm Foundation – Wk. 5 (First Things First)
Firm Foundation – Wk. 5 (First Things First)
- Matthew 6:31-33, Hebrews 12:1-2
Observations:
1. Putting Jesus first means Him first and everything else around Him.
- Matthew 6:33
- Colossians 1:17-18
2. Putting Jesus first means
our
fixed on Him.
- Hebrews 12:1-2
- Colossians 3:1-2
3. Putting Jesus first means anything that keeps us from Him faithfully.
- Hebrews 12:1
- 1 Corinthians 10:23
Application:
-
Jesus and make Him
of your life today.
- Ask yourself whether Jesus is truly
and
– and if He’s not,
.
- Make the decision today to
something that’s
your pursuit of Jesus.
Discussion Questions:
1. Read Matthew 6:31-33. What does Jesus tell His followers to seek first, and what does that reveal about the proper order of our lives? What are some good things that can become “first things” if we are not careful? As you look at your own life, what tends to move ahead of Jesus in your priorities?
2. Read Colossians 1:17-18. What does this passage say about Christ’s place in all things? How is Jesus being the center of your life different from simply giving Him one important part of it? What area of your life is hardest for you to connect back to Jesus—your work, family, money, relationships, future plans, or something else?
3. Read Hebrews 12:1-2 and Colossians 3:1-2. What do these passages tell us to keep our attention fixed on, and why does that matter? What things most often compete for your attention and begin shaping the direction of your life? When you realize your focus has drifted, what helps you get your eyes back on Jesus?
4. Read Hebrews 12:1-2 again. What do you notice about the relationship between fixing our eyes on Jesus and running the race with endurance? Think about the story of the boy who could find his way home once he saw the steeple. When life feels confusing or disorienting, what does keeping Jesus in view look like for you in practical terms?
5. Read Hebrews 12:1 and 1 Corinthians 10:23. What two kinds of things does Hebrews tell us to lay aside? Why do you think the writer distinguishes between sin and other hindrances? Is there something in your life that may not be sinful in itself, but is still making it harder for you to pursue Jesus faithfully?
6. Read Revelation 2:4-5 and Hebrews 12:1-2. What does Jesus call His people to do when they realize He is no longer first? As you think about sequence, center, focus, and hindrances, where is God pressing on you most today? What is one specific thing you need to repent of, lay down, or reorder so that Jesus truly has first place in your life?
7. What’s one thing about God you learned this week that you’re excited to share? Who can you tell it to? And who will you invite to “come and see” this week—whether it’s church, a small group, a Bible study, or a one-on-one conversation?