Opening Question: What does the phrase "I've got your six" mean to you? How have you experienced this in your life?
Key Takeaways:
1. "The Lord has your six" refers to the security of your soul, not necessarily physical protection.
2. God won't listen to accusations against His justified children, not even from ourselves.
3. Nothing can separate us from God's love once we're in Christ.
4. God demonstrated His love by not sparing His own Son for us.
Discussion Questions:
1. The sermon mentions that God having our "six" doesn't mean we won't face hardships. How did this align or conflict with your understanding of God's protection?
2. Reflect on Romans 8:33-34. How does it make you feel knowing that God won't even listen to accusations against you, including your own self-criticism?
3. Eric emphasizes that God loved us even when we were sinners. How does this impact your view of God's love for you now as a Christian?
4. Discuss the statement: "The devil can't tell the truth and God can't lie." How can this help us discern between God's Word and negative thoughts?
5. How does the idea that "God is for us" (Romans 8:31) change your perspective on challenges you're currently facing?
6. The lesson mentions that we sometimes work hard to be loved by God. Have you ever felt this way? How does Romans 8:38-39 address this?
Practical Applications:
1. Self-Talk Challenge: This week, when you catch yourself engaging in negative self-talk, consciously replace it with a truth from Romans 8.
2. Love Inventory: Make a list of ways God has demonstrated His love for you, both before and after becoming a Christian.
3. "Six" Support: Choose one person in your life to intentionally "have their six" this week. How can you demonstrate God's love and support to them?
4. Scripture Memorization: Commit to memorizing Romans 8:38-39 as a reminder of God's unbreakable love.
5. Gratitude Journal: Each day, write down one way you see God being "for you" in your life.
Closing Prayer:
Thank God for His unwavering love and protection. Ask for help in truly believing and living in the security of His care for us.
Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on the themes from the lesson:
Day 1: God's Unfailing Love
Reading: Romans 8:31-39
Devotional: Today’s passage reminds us of the steadfast and unchanging nature of God’s love. Paul affirms that nothing can separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus—not tribulation, distress, persecution, or any other power in creation (Romans 8:35–39).
There may be times when we feel distant from God, but Scripture assures us that His love does not waver. God proved His love for us when Christ died for us while we were yet sinners (Romans 5:8). His love is not dependent on our merit, but on His perfect and unchanging nature.
Consider how firmly trusting in that truth could shape your daily relationship with Him. Let the assurance of God’s enduring love strengthen your faith, calm your heart, and guide your actions today.
Day 2: Justified by Faith
Reading: Romans 5:1-11
Devotional: Paul explains how we are justified - made right with God - through faith in Jesus Christ. This justification brings peace with God and access to His grace. It's not something we earn, but a gift we receive. Consider the weight of guilt or shame you may carry from past sins. Now, imagine God declaring you "not guilty" because of Christ's sacrifice. How does this change your self-perception and your approach to God? Today, practice living as one who is justified. When negative thoughts about your worth arise, counter them with the truth of your justification in Christ. Express gratitude for this undeserved gift and let it motivate you to live in a way that honors God.
Day 3: Hope in Suffering
Reading: Romans 5:3-5, James 1:2-4
Devotional: These passages present a counterintuitive view of suffering - that it can produce endurance, character, and hope. In our pain, we often ask "Why?", but perhaps a better question is "What can I learn from this?" Reflect on a current struggle or past difficulty. How has it shaped your character or deepened your faith? Remember that God doesn't waste our pain; He uses it to refine us. Today, if you're facing a trial, ask God to help you see it through the lens of spiritual growth. If you're in a season of relative ease, consider how you can support and encourage others who are suffering.
Day 4: God's Presence in Our Weakness
Reading: 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, Psalm 46:1-3
Devotional: Paul speaks of finding strength in weakness, while the Psalmist describes God as our refuge and strength in trouble. These passages remind us that God's power is often most evident in our moments of vulnerability. Think about times when you've felt weak or inadequate. How has God shown up in those moments? Our culture often prizes strength and self-sufficiency, but God invites us to depend on Him. Today, practice acknowledging your weaknesses to God. Instead of trying to hide or overcome them on your own, invite God's strength into those areas. Look for opportunities to boast in your weaknesses, allowing others to see God's power at work in you.
Day 5: Secure in Christ
Reading: John 10:27-30, Ephesians 1:13-14
Devotional: Jesus reminds us that no one can snatch His faithful followers from His hand, and Paul describes the Holy Spirit as a seal of God’s promise to those who remain in Christ (John 10:28–29; Ephesians 1:13–14). These passages remind us of the confidence and security found in a faithful relationship with the Lord.
There may be times when we question our standing before God or feel unsure about our salvation. In those moments, we can take comfort in knowing that God is faithful to His promises. As we continue to walk in the light and remain obedient to His will, we can rest assured of His steadfast love and grace (1 John 1:7).
Let the assurance of God’s care strengthen your resolve to live faithfully. Live with confidence—not in yourself, but in the One who holds you—and let that assurance motivate you to serve Him wholeheartedly each day.
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