Growth Groups

There are 2 growth groups in Mississauga, 3 in Oakville (including a 20's growth group that meets on Thursday), and 2 in Toronto (see www.nlife.ca for Toronto Growth Group info). Please contact the church office for times and places.

Growth Group Questions

Reading: 1 Samuel 30:1- end of chapter.

Recap: Ziklag was in ruins and the women and children were in captivity, the army was in disarray and David was seeking God's guidance. This portion of the story represents a spiritual shift in David's life. When he teamed up with the Philistines he didn't seek God's advice. As a result things didn't turn out so well. Now he turns to God and is told to pursue the amalekites.

1- When are you most likely to seek God's advice on a matter? When things are going well? When life is chaotic? Never? Or always, even when ordering a pizza?

David and his 600 men begin to chase the amalekites but weren't sure where they had gone. Their first stop was brook Besor. There 200 of David's men rested while the remaining 400 pursued the amalekites. David's pursuit of the amalekites can represent our spiritual lives. Sometimes we join the battle and other times we sit by the brook and rest and let God fight for us.

2- Where are you right now? Are you in the battle or sitting by the brook? Explain your response.

1 Samuel 30:7-25 with the help of an Egyptian left behind by the amalekites David and his men attacked and recovered their wives, family and property. David and his men returned to Besor, where the 200 resting soldiers remained.

3- If you had been part of the army that defeated the amalekites what might have been your reaction to the resting soldiers? Have you ever had such thoughts about your brothers and sisters in Christ?

Max Lucado says in his book "Facing Your Giants" that some people hangout at the brook Besor and if you are listed among them, here is what you need to know: It's okay to rest- Jesus is your David. He fights when you cannot. He goes where you cannot. He's not angry if you sit. (See Mark 6:31)

4- Describe a time when you've experienced grace and been a recipient of something undeserved.

Brook Besor, blesses rest. Brook Besor also cautions against arrogance. David knew that victory was a gift. Let's remember the same. Salvation comes like the Egyptian in the desert, a delightful surprise on the path. Unearned, undeserved, who are the strong to criticize the tired? Are you weary? Take a rest. Catch your breath. We need your strength. Are you strong? Reserve passing judgement on the tired.

5- Rejoice together with those who feel strong and finish your time together praying for those who need rest and refreshment.