Following Jesus isn't always convenient. It doesn't always feel like we are doing something significant, productive, or helpful, yet even in those times Jesus calls us to follow Him. Great moments and turning points in our relationship with Jesus are often the consequence of taking small, inconvenient, and seemingly insignificant steps.
1. Jesus asked Peter to let him go out on his boat. It was a small step for Peter to take but yet an important one in light of the entire story. Have you ever felt God asking you to do something, even if it seemed inconsequential/inconvenient? What did you do, and what came of it?
2. Have you ever experienced a season of frustration and exhaustion that God used to grow your faith?
3. When Jesus asked Peter to take him fishing, it was the wrong time and the wrong place to go fishing. Yet Peter moved beyond all of that and said,"but because you say so, I will..." Peter trusted Jesus. What makes it difficult for us to trust God when he asks us to do something?
4. Jesus wanted Peter to do something he had done a thousand times but in a different way than any of the times before. What is something routine that you have been sensing Jesus is asking you to do different?
5. Why do you think Jesus chooses to ask us to do things that at the time make no sense and seem inconvenient and unimportant?
6. Have you ever had a time in your life where you didn't recognize the importance of a step of faith until after the fact? Share.
7. None of the disciples knew what was at stake in their decision to do what God was asking them to do. Do you think we view different steps in our faith journey in such a way that we perceive more value in some steps than others?
8. How often do you spend time reading the Bible each week? What do you like and dislike about reading scripture? Do you think a consistent intake of scripture would benefit you? What might keep you from it?
9. What next steps are you currently struggling to take? What can you do to begin to make small steps in that direction?
Adopt a Bible reading plan and read the Scripture daily.
Ask these questions as you read:
1. What did I learn about my Heavenly Father?
2. What did I learn about loving God & loving people?
3. Is there a sin to avoid?
4. Is there a command to obey?
5. Is there a promise to claim?
6. Is there a principle/example to follow?
Romans 10:17 (NIV) Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.
James 1:22 (NIV) Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.
