Knowing God is the greatest gift we could ever receive and be thankful for. Jesus made knowing God in salvation possible when he paid for our rebellion on a cross. Nothing is better than intimacy with God. Why stand at the foot of the mountain wasting your time dabbling in sin and making golden calves? Draw near to God through Jesus.
Each week, as you take in the Bible, find some friends to talk it out. You can follow this simple guide to help. First, R.E.A.D. and P.R.A.Y. on your own. Then, meet with friends to share what you've learned.
R - Repeated words
E - Examine and mark
A - Ask what you learn about God
D - Do if there is anything to do
P - Praise
R - Repent
A - Ask
Y - Yield
Sunday's Message Text: Exodus 19-20, Exodus 32-33
Bible Plan Reading - Week 47
START IT.
We took a look at the importance of drawing near to God this week. From Sunday's message or the Meet Jesus Bible Reading Plan this week, what is impacting you the most? Was there a word, phrase, Bible verse, or theme that impacted you?
STUDY IT.
In Exodus 19:1-6, how does God view his people? What is the pupose of God's people?
In Exodus 19:7-20, how are the people prepared to draw near to God?
From Exodus 20, what's the difference between the first four commandments and the last 6 commandments? What was Moses' response to the people when they were filled with fear after hearing the commandments?
Move to Exodus 32. What caused the people's fear of God to be replaced with idolatry (something other than God)? What is God's response? What is Moses' plea to God and what happens?
In Exodus 33, what is the people's response to God relenting and forgiving his people? What about God moved them from idolatry, to fear, to repentance?
SHARE IT.
Does drawing near to God come easy to you, or is it a difficult idea for you? Do you believe God "treasures" you?
Can you recall a time when God used your repentance to bring about restoration?
Is standing in the gap for others a part of your weekly life like Moses? Who can you start interceding for (praying for) this week? Start a list.
How does Exodus, the 10 commandments, a holy mountain, a golden calf, and Moses point us to Jesus? What's the big so what of drawing near to God?
If God has a purpose for his people, what's yours? Is there any step left to take in 2023 before the new year?
FINAL THOUGHT
We are moving into the Christmas season after this week. It will be easy to get caught up in the holiday traditions and busyness, and miss drawing near to God. Remind yourself of what Christmas is all about...God drawing near to you! Commit right now to have a daily reminder of the importance of drawing near to God because He has drawn near to you through Jesus. Happy Thanksgiving!
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