Perspective is everything. What makes you a success? Some people believe this means never falling short or making mistakes. And yet life is most-often filled with challenges for us to overcome, and if this can be accomplished in the power of God – it is totally awesome!
Two passages are key for this conversation.
“The God who made the world and all things in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands; nor is He served by human hands, as though He needed anything, since He Himself gives to all people life and breath and all things; and He made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their habitation, that they would seek God, if perhaps they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us; for in Him we live and move and exist, as even some of your own poets have said, ‘For we also are His children.’ – Acts 17:24-27
And He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ’s sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9,10
So counter-intuitive on a human scale. Today we talk about some great story conversations you can initiate with others to go deeper.
The phases of life story. What would you say are the major phase of life? Crossings? How has God spoken to you over time?
The depth of friendships and brotherhood. Who are you companions from the different phases you have experienced thus far?
The experience of selflessness. How has selflessness served you well? How has selfishness cost you?
The experience of oneness. How deep is your oneness with your spouse? With your friends? With your companions?
How have you overcome obstacles within the power of God (as we succeed and fail in strength and weakness).
Embracing loneliness and imperfection. In what ways have you seen these produce anger? Hopelessness and giving up? Helpful change?
The assets of honesty, vulnerability and transparency. How has each of these served you or eluded you?
How are faith – hope – and love encouraging your spirit as a part of your human and spiritual walk?
How is your gifting emerging/solidifying? What are your spiritual gifts? Those of your friends? In what ways do you see these as connected?
In what ways are you experiencing confidence about God within you?
And here is our team, talking about the power of story together. Enjoy!