Life Group - Study Guides

At the beginning of a new year, many people focus on resolutions, goals, diets, exercise plans, or a “word for the year.” Others are completely over all of it. But whether we love or hate resolutions, most of us can agree on this: it's a natural time for a reset. What we need most isn’t just better habits—it's a heart and mind that hunger and thirst for God. Often, we assume nothing needs to change, or we tell ourselves that we will deal with spiritual things later. Over time, that delay can harden our hearts without us realizing it. Together, we want to be a church that intentionally seeks Jesus in 2026—not out of pressure or guilt, but out of desire and trust.

The New Year often feels like a fresh start. For some, it’s a reset in relationships, health, work, parenting, or faith. We set goals and make plans, but like diet and exercise, growth takes time—and sometimes we hit ruts or plateaus. As we approach 2026, what if our biggest goal wasn’t just external improvement, but spiritual growth? King David made it clear that above everything else, there was one thing he truly desired. Join us as we explore what it means to pursue God in a deeper way and how that pursuit can shape every area of our lives.

Jesus turned every expectation upside down. Instead of demanding service, He offered it freely. Instead of elevating Himself, He humbled Himself. Instead of claiming power, He laid it down. His greatness was found in His willingness to serve — and He invites us to follow in that same quiet strength.

Many hoped for a Messiah who would overthrow oppressors and claim a throne with force. Instead, Jesus arrived as a Shepherd — guiding, protecting, lifting up the broken and wandering. His strength was tender. His leadership was personal. His power looked like compassion.

Zacchaeus wasn’t the man anyone expected Jesus to pursue. His reputation was damaged, his choices had hurt others, and the crowd believed he didn’t deserve kindness. Yet, Jesus called him by name, stepped into his home, and changed his life. Grace came where no one expected it — and that’s exactly how Jesus still works.