Leader Guide
At The Cove Church: We take the Bible seriously and we are generous. Throughout Scripture, God calls His people not only to know His Word, but to trust it, obey it, and allow it to shape every area of life. The tension comes when we embrace the parts of God's Word that comfort us while resisting the parts that challenge us. As we take Scripture seriously and put it into practice, it changes the way we live, including how we view our time, resources, and generosity.
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
Leader: This section is designed to get discussions started, examine God’s truth, and apply it to our week. Life Group leaders should not assume everyone in their group is a Christ follower. Because they are taking part in a Life Group, they must have some openness to know more and explore. Pray for the Holy Spirit to work and let Him lead you as well.
1. Have you ever tried to put something together without reading the instructions or made a meal without following the recipe? How did it turn out? What usually keeps us from following instructions, even when we know they’re there to help us?
2. Read 2 Timothy 3:16; James 1:22. According to these verses, what does God intend His Word to accomplish in our lives? Why do you think people are often tempted to obey God selectively? Can you think of a time when Scripture challenged something you believed, valued, or wanted to do?
Leader: His correction is not meant to condemn us, but to help us grow and become more like Christ. James reminds us that God's Word was never meant to be information we simply hear or agree with; it is meant to be lived out. Spiritual growth happens when we respond to what God is teaching us and put it into practice every day.
3. Read 1 Samuel 15:22–23. What does this reveal about the condition of Saul’s heart and his view of God? What are some ways we justify partial obedience in our own lives? Why do you think such strong language is used to describe disobedience?
Leader: Saul believed partial obedience was enough. His story reminds us that God is not looking for outward religious activity while our hearts remain resistant to Him. He desires trust-filled obedience. Often our struggle with obedience is really a struggle with trust. When we fully believe God is good, wise, and for our good, we are more willing to surrender our preferences and follow His leading, even when it costs us something.
4. Read 2 Corinthians 9:11; Matthew 6:19–21. What do these passages reveal about God’s purpose for the resources He entrusts to us? How does generosity reveal what we truly value and trust?
Leader: Paul reminds us that God's provision has a purpose. He blesses us not just so we can accumulate more for ourselves, but so we can be generous and help meet the needs of others. When believers give, needs are met and God receives glory through the thanksgiving that generosity produces. Generosity becomes one way we put our faith into action and reflect God's heart to the people around us. When our treasure is centered on God and His kingdom, generosity becomes a natural response rather than an obligation.
Action Step: This week, read Psalm 139:23-24 and make it your prayer. Ask God to search your heart, test your thoughts, and reveal anything that may be offensive to Him. As He does, ask for the humility to receive His correction, the courage to take a step of obedience, and the willingness to follow Him as He leads you in the way everlasting.
Optional - Deeper Dive: Read 2 Kings 5:1-14. Why was Naaman resistant to obeying God’s instructions? What does this story teach us about trusting God’s way instead of our own?