Discussion Guide
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.
What you will need: A Bible or your Bible app, a notebook, pen, and highlighter. The verses highlighted below are linked so that you can easily access them during your study time.
Jump Start
1. If the New Year came with a “reset button,” what’s one area of life you’d be tempted to press it for?
• Relationships
• Health
• Schedule
• Finances
• Spiritual life
• Something else
2. Why do you think fresh starts are so appealing to us?
3. Read Psalm 27:4. David had many responsibilities and pressures. Why do you think he narrowed his desire down to “one thing”? What tends to compete for that “one thing” spot in our lives today? When you hear “growing spiritually,” what does that mean to you personally?
4. Read 1 Timothy 4:7–8. Why do you think Paul compares spiritual growth to training rather than instant change? Which of these 5 spiritual habits do you need to work on or have helped you grow in the past (church, serving, life group, giving, quiet time)? Have you ever felt like you were in a spiritual rut or plateau? What might “changing it up” look like?
5. Read Matthew 22:34–40. Why do you think Jesus included heart, mind, and soul instead of just saying “love God”? Which of these three do you naturally focus on the most? Which is the hardest? How could loving God this way reshape how you approach a new year? How does passionately loving God help us naturally love others better?
Action Step: As you look toward 2026, which area do you most need to grow in?
• Heart – emotions, worship, passion, connection with God
• Mind – learning, understanding Scripture, asking questions
• Soul – living faith throughout your whole life, not just a time slot
Choose one simple step you can take this month to grow in that area. Examples:
• Create a worship playlist and use it during the week
• Start a Bible reading plan or devotional
• Invite God into everyday moments instead of only quiet time
Deeper Dive: Read Galatians 5:25, John 14:26. How does the Holy Spirit help us live this out daily—in conversations, decisions, and relationships?