[OUT] How does the death & resurrection of Jesus burn in your heart for change in you and those around you?

Challenge: Establish regular rhythms calling on God for change in those around you

Don't Be Deceived - 2 Chronicles 18

Who has ever bought something in a shop, but then tried to justify the purchase later? Who has been seeking guidance, and consulted different friends ... but in reality you are doing a tour until you find a friend who tells you what you want to hear? Probably we've all done these at one time or another! When it comes to guidance our emotions and stuff deep within us interact in strong ways. So when we say "I'm following Jesus ..." do we really have our lives set on Him to show a 'True North', or do we let these other factors win the day?

[IN] Am I open to God's direction, or in truth will I only set about 'my thing'?

Challenge: Lay down your plans & preferences before God, again and again

If You Were King? - 2 Chronicles 19 - 27

We all face decisions in life, and sometimes outright dilemmas! In each situation is what we do informed by our faith and walk with Jesus. What do we do in scenarios where we have power - perhaps outright power? This week we will look at several of the kings in 2 Chronicles, and ask 'What would you do if you were king?'.

Temple Theology - 2 Chronicles 6:14 - 21

Solomon has completed the temple, and chapters 6 & 7 record a long prayer that Solomon makes, with God then speaking back. We should note how Solomon seems to know that the people will mess up, for he prays 'when' and not 'if', and furthermore God's reply seems to reflect this certainty! So Solomon prays 'when they mess up' ... they can look to this Temple, confess and pray to be restored. In other words the Temple is now a physical focal point, a reminder of the faithfulness of God, somewhere they can look to in order to reconnect with God.

Glory! - 2 Chronicles 5:2 - 14

By chapter 5 in 2 Chronicles we are at a real high point. It is a moment for the Glory of God. God came powerfully among the people in a way that they could not mistake for anything else. At Countess Free Church the leadership team hold three key strategic areas where we are looking for growth among us. One of these is headed 'God Among Us - Looking for the Lord powerfully present among us'.

Ask for Wisdom - 2 Chronicles 1

How does it work in your family regarding Christmas presents? Do you all make lists, or do some of you like surprises? In 2 Chronicles 1 Solomon seems to be invited by God to make the mother of all Christmas lists - 'Ask for anything you want!'.

[UP] Do you live by your own wisdom, or the wisdom of the Spirit?

 Challenge: Regularly ask for His Holy Spirit wisdom

Sent on the Gospel Message (Reprise) - Colossians 4

As Paul finishes his letter, we glean confirmation that he is in prison for his faith and witness. Yet he is not despondent, but full of hope and sees opportunity. He has good reason, for the chapter demonstrates a range of names, e.g. Tychicus, Onesimus, Aristartchus and Nympha to name just a few. This is a network of believers and co-workers, people on the same task of bearing witness to Jesus.

[OUT] What initiative will you take this Christmas?

Challenge: Pray for as little as one person/family, ask God for the next step