Focus Forward - Week 4

Message Text

Galatians 6:7-10

Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.

2 Corinthians 9:6-8

Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.

Message Notes

1. The difficulties we experience can either prepare the soil of our hearts or allow weeds to take hold so no crop will grow.

• Perseverance - Perseverance kills the weeds of quitting.
• Character - Character kills the weeds of deceit, envy, greed, and lust etc.
• Hope - Hope kills the weeds of despair.

2. Don’t just throw it out, use it as fertilizer.

• The very things that were meant to harm us can enrich the soil we will harvest from.

3. When the soil has been prepped, sow your best seed.

• Plant for the harvest you desire.
• Pant for the faith you will need in 6 months.

Connect Group Questions

1. Why is it hard to believe that difficulties can produce good things in us?
2. How have you learned to persevere?
3. What are some difficult situations that produce character?
4. How can hope be a byproduct of difficulties?
5. Have you ever considered that your suffering can actually be fertilizer for your faith?
6. Why don’t we sow seed more often in trials and difficulties?
7. What can we do now that will prepare us for 6 months from now?