Navigation Church

Navigation Church
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Navigation Church is a community where you can be real, ask hard questions, and discover your next step in God’s Story. We do that by translating confusing theology into real talk, openly sharing our struggles and triumphs, and helping people make sense of God and grow in relationship with him.

  1. 3d ago

    Family Month – Navigating Conversations

    Navigating Conversations What kind of environment are your words creating? Are you aware that you can create with your words? The words we use may seem small, but they carry enormous influence. They can encourage or criticize, heal or wound, bring life or slowly create patterns that last for generations. In Week 3 of NAVIGATE, we explore James 3:5–10 and discover why James compares the tongue to a small fire capable of setting an entire forest ablaze. Our words don’t simply reveal what’s happening inside of us. Over time, they help create the culture of our homes, shape the people around us, and influence the next generation. Some of the words coming out of our mouths today were spoken into us years ago. But maturity isn’t becoming our parents, and it isn’t simply becoming the opposite of them. Maturity is becoming like Jesus. James 3:5-10 Discussion topics HEAD – What did Jesus say to you through the Word? Read James 3:5-10 together. James compares the tongue to a small fire capable of burning an entire forest. Why do you think he chose such an extreme picture to describe our words? James says the tongue can affect the “whole course” of someone’s life. What are some ways you’ve seen a few words have an impact far beyond the moment in which they were spoken? Sunday’s message said: “Your words don’t just express your world. They create it.” What do you think that means? In what ways can repeated language actually create a culture in a marriage, family, workplace, or friendship? HEART – How did it make you feel? What language from the home you grew up in have you carried into your life today? Are there things you’ve repeated? Are there things you’ve intentionally rebelled against? Sunday we said: Maturity isn’t becoming your parents. Maturity isn’t becoming the opposite of your parents. Maturity is becoming like Jesus. Is there an area of your communication where you’ve been defined more by what you experienced growing up than by how Jesus would have you respond? If someone followed you around for a week and only listened to your words, what would they say is happening beneath the surface of your life? Stress? Gratitude? Anger? Peace? Fear? Grace? Criticism? Encouragement? HANDS – What are you going to do with it? Finish this sentence:  I want __________ to become part of the language of my home. Encouragement? Gratitude? Grace? Forgiveness? Honor? Prayer? “I’m sorry”? “I’m proud of you”? “I love you”? What’s one phrase or pattern of communication you need to intentionally stop using? Family Month Check-In Did anyone use the Family Take-Home Kit this week? What was the funniest or most memorable part? What conversation happened at home because of it? Did your kids teach you anything from Sunday’s lesson? Check out our other audio series and video playlists that can help you find Jesus in every moment and then discover what’s next

  2. Aug 9

    Family Month – Navigating Decisions

    Navigating Decisions Every day we make decisions. Some are small. Others shape the direction of our families, our relationships, and our future. The question isn’t whether we’ll face decisions, but where we’ll turn for wisdom when we do. In Week 2 of NAVIGATE, we dive into James 1:5 and discover that God doesn’t expect us to navigate life alone. He invites us to ask Him for wisdom, and He promises to give it generously, without shame or condemnation. We’ll also discover the difference between living by principles and living by preferences. Principles are rooted in God’s unchanging Word. Preferences are driven by our changing feelings. Mature faith doesn’t ask God to rewrite His truth for our situation. It asks Him how to faithfully live out the truth He’s already revealed. “You don’t need all the answers. You need access to the One who does.” James 1:5 Discussion topics Icebreaker:What’s one of the funniest or worst decisions you’ve ever made? (Keep it light… wrong turn on vacation, bad haircut, impulse purchase, terrible first car, etc.) HEAD – What did Jesus say to you through the Word? Read James 1:5-8 together. James tells us that if we lack wisdom, we should ask God. According to Sunday’s message, how is wisdom different from simply having knowledge? The sermon made a distinction between principles and preferences.  How would you explain the difference in your own words? Why do you think James follows the promise of wisdom (v.5) with a warning about being double-minded (vv.6-8)? What connection do you see? HEART – How did it make you feel? When you’re facing a difficult decision which one are you naturally more tempted to follow? God’s principles? Your feelings? Other people’s opinions? Whatever seems easiest? Why? Is there an area of your life where God has already made His will clear through Scripture, but you’ve been hoping for a different answer?  Remember that in the sermon on Sunday Pastor David said, “Immature people make decisions based on preferences. Mature people make decisions based on principles.” Where do you see yourself growing in this area? HANDS – What are you going to do with it? Which area of life do you most need God’s wisdom in right now? Money Parenting Marriage Friendships Work Purity Time Something else? Is there one decision you’ve been delaying because you’ve been waiting for more clarity, when God may simply be asking you to obey what He’s already revealed? Check out our other audio series and video playlists that can help you find Jesus in every moment and then discover what’s next

  3. Aug 2

    Family Month – Navigating Pressure

    Navigating Pressure What if the pressure you’re experiencing isn’t there to break you… but to reveal what God is building in you? In the opening message of our Family Month series, we explore James 1:2-4 and discover that pressure doesn’t create our character. It reveals it. James challenges us to see life’s unexpected trials through a different lens, not as interruptions to avoid, but as opportunities God uses to shape us into people who are mature, steadfast, and complete. Whether you’re navigating family stress, difficult relationships, uncertainty, or unexpected hardship, this message will encourage you to stop asking, “How do I get out of this?” and begin asking, “What is God producing in me?” James 1:2-4 Discussion topics HEAD – What did Jesus say to you through the Word? The sermon pointed out that James assumes pressure is coming (“when,” not “if”). Why do you think we often act surprised when life gets difficult? One of the key ideas from Sunday was: Pressure doesn’t create what’s in you. It reveals what’s been built in you. How does that change the way you think about difficult situations? James says God uses pressure to produce perseverance, maturity, and completeness. Which of those words stands out to you most? Why? HEART – How did it make you feel? When pressure shows up in your life, what usually comes out first? Anger? Anxiety? Control? Withdrawal? Blame? Humor? Prayer? Something else?  How has that worked so far in your life? Can you think of a recent situation where pressure revealed something in you that surprised you? HANDS – What are you going to do with it? Which step of P.A.U.S.E. do you think will be the hardest for you this week? What situation do you already know you’ll probably face this week where you’ll need to practice it? Who in this group can help keep you accountable? Family Month Check-In Did anyone use the Family Take-Home Kit this week? What was the funniest or most memorable part? What conversation happened at home because of it? Did your kids teach you anything from Sunday’s lesson? Check out our other audio series and video playlists that can help you find Jesus in every moment and then discover what’s next

  4. Jun 28

    Youth Take Over

    The Open Seat We all know what it’s like to search for a place to belong. Whether at a lunch table, in a friend group, or in a crowded room, we’re constantly looking for an open seat. The good news is that God’s table has always been a place of invitation, not exclusion. In this special Youth Takeover Sunday, we explore Isaiah’s vision of God’s great banquet and discover that the open seat isn’t just about where we’ve been welcomed—it reminds us of who we’re called to welcome. Through powerful testimonies from students whose lives were impacted this summer, we’ll be challenged to remember our own “open seat” moment and make room for someone else to experience God’s grace.  Isaiah 25:6-9, Revelation 12:11 Discussion topics HEAD – What did Jesus say to you through the Word?   Read Isaiah 25:6-9 together.  What stood out to you most from the message, Scripture, or student testimonies?   What does this passage teach us about God’s invitation and who is welcome at His table?   How does the image of “The Open Seat” help you better understand the heart of the Gospel?  HEART – How did it make you feel?   As you listened today, what emotions surfaced when you thought about your own “open seat” moment—when someone welcomed you into faith, community, or a deeper relationship with Jesus?  Did any of the student testimonies or message points challenge, encourage, or convict you? Why?  How do you feel when you think about the people in your life who may still be looking for a seat at God’s table?  HANDS – What are you going to do with it?   Who is one person God may be asking you to intentionally make room for this week?  What is one way you can use your table of influence—your home, workplace, neighborhood, friend group, or church—to extend God’s invitation to someone else?  What part of your story could you share this week to encourage someone or point them toward Jesus?   NEXT STEP CHALLENGE FOR GROUPS:   The Open Seat Challenge  Before your group leaves, have every person write down the name of one person who may need an invitation—to church, to coffee, to dinner, to a conversation, or simply into community.  Commit to three things this week:  Pray for them every day.  Reach out to them personally.  Create a seat for them—literally or figuratively—by inviting them into a meaningful space where they can experience belonging.  At your next gathering, share what happened when you made room at your table.  Check out our other audio series and video playlists that can help you find Jesus in every moment and then discover what’s next

  5. Jun 21

    Upside Down Way of God – Riches Through Giving

    Riches Through Giving What is the richest thing a person can give? Is it money, possessions, opportunities, or something more? In this Father’s Day message, Pastor David explores a surprising truth found throughout Scripture: while the world says riches come from accumulation, God says riches come from generosity. Drawing from Proverbs 11, Luke 6, Acts 20, and the powerful example of John 3:16, we’ll discover that generosity is about far more than finances. It’s about living with open hands and open hearts. Through a personal story involving a green pillow, a son, a daughter, and a lesson in character, we’ll explore how some of the most valuable things we can ever give away are attention, patience, wisdom, identity, direction, honor, and love. Along the way, we’ll uncover a Kingdom principle that appears again and again throughout Scripture: what leaves your hand is not always lost. Often, it is planted. If Proverbs teaches that giving creates flourishing, Luke teaches that giving multiplies, and Acts teaches that giving blesses the giver, then John 3:16 reveals the foundation beneath them all: giving is the very nature of God. Because the richest gift ever given was not something God owned. It was Himself. Proverbs 11, Luke 6, Acts 20, John 3:16 Discussion topics HEAD – What did Jesus say to you through the Word? Pastor David shared that: Proverbs teaches that giving creates flourishing. (Prov 11:24-25) Luke teaches that giving multiplies. (Luke 6:38) Acts teaches that giving blesses the giver. (Acts 20:35) John teaches giving is the nature of God. (John 3:16) Which of the four points from this week’s message stood out to you the most, and why? How did this message expand your understanding of generosity beyond money? Or did it? What’s one lesson you learned from your dad, or father figure, that you still carry with you today? Was it a lesson you want to repeat or one you hope to avoid? How has it influenced your life? HEART – How did it make you feel? Pastor David said, “The things we give away often become the things that make us richest.” Where have you experienced that to be true in your own life? Which of these is hardest for you to give away right now? Time Attention Patience Forgiveness Encouragement Wisdom Money Trust Why do you think that is? Which statement from the sermon resonated most with you personally? “The world says riches come from accumulation. God says riches come from generosity.” “What leaves your hand is not always lost. Often, it is planted.” “The life you pour out eventually becomes the life you experience.” “The greatest inheritance isn’t what you leave behind. It’s what you place inside.” HANDS – What are you going to do with it? Who is one person you can intentionally invest in this week through your time, encouragement, wisdom, or presence? Is there an area of your life where you have been holding on too tightly? What would it look like to trust God with open hands instead? Check out our other audio series and video playlists that can help you find Jesus in every moment and then discover what’s next

  6. Jun 14

    Upside Down Way Of God – Foolish Confounds the Wise

    Foolish Confounds the Wise What if the very thing you trust most is the thing keeping you from seeing God clearly? For centuries, people have struggled with Jesus for the same reason. The Jews wanted power. The Greeks wanted wisdom. The Romans wanted strength. Yet God sent a crucified Savior. What looked foolish to the world became the very wisdom and power of God. In this message, we’ll explore Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 1 and uncover why the gospel still challenges our assumptions today. Why do some people embrace the cross while others reject it? Why do we so often trust our own logic, intelligence, expectations, and abilities instead of God’s ways? And what wisdom have we embraced that might be making Jesus harder to recognize? The gospel is not advice about how to become a better version of yourself. It is the announcement of what God has already done through Christ. Because every culture has a kind of wisdom that makes Jesus harder to recognize, but God’s wisdom is still greater than our own. 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 Discussion topics HEAD – What did Jesus say to you through the Word? What do you think Paul means when he says, “God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise”? Which of the five points from this week’s message stood out to you the most, and why? The gospel doesn’t fit our logic. The gospel cannot be discovered through intelligence alone. The gospel offends our expectations. God uses the wrong people. God’s method doesn’t impress the world. Pastor David said, “The gospel is not advice. It is news.” What is the difference between those two ideas? HEART – How did it make you feel? The message challenged us with this question: “What wisdom have we embraced that might be keeping us from seeing Jesus clearly?” How would you answer that personally? Examples of things that some people trust: Your own logic? Your own experience? Your own abilities? Other people’s opinions? Have you ever found yourself disappointed with God because He didn’t work the way you expected Him to work? Which statement hits closest to home right now? “The cross starts where self-help ends.” “Information can inform the mind, but only revelation transforms the heart.” “God often chooses people human wisdom wouldn’t even interview.” “The power was never in the packaging. The power was always in the message.” HANDS – What are you going to do with it? Is there a situation you’re currently trying to solve through effort, strategy, or control that may require surrender and prayer instead? Who is one person in your life that needs to hear the hope of the gospel? What is one practical step you can take to engage them this week? Check out our other audio series and video playlists that can help you find Jesus in every moment and then discover what’s next

  7. Jun 7

    Upside Down Way of God – Weakness is Strength

    Weakness is Strength What happens when the thing you trust most about yourself finally fails? In this message, we explore the life of Peter and the surprising journey from self-confidence to Spirit-dependence. Peter loved Jesus. He wanted to obey Jesus. He believed he would never abandon Jesus. Yet time after time, Peter found himself relying on his own courage, understanding, devotion, and strength. It wasn’t until his confidence in himself finally collapsed that he discovered the power of God’s grace. Through Peter’s story, we’ll wrestle with some honest questions: Where do we trust ourselves more than God? Where do we rely on our own effort instead of His presence? And what happens when life reveals we’re weaker than we thought? Drawing from 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, we’ll discover that God’s power is not perfected through our strength, but through our surrender. Because before Pentecost, Peter was drawing strength from Peter. After Pentecost, Peter was drawing strength from the Spirit. And that changes everything. God is not looking for impressive people. He is looking for dependent people. Philippians 2:5-8 Discussion topics HEAD – What did Jesus say to you through the Word? What stood out to you most from Peter’s journey?  Was there a specific moment in Peter’s life where you saw yourself? Before Pentecost, Peter was drawing strength from Peter. After Pentecost, Peter was drawing strength from the Spirit.  What do you think is the difference between self-confidence and Spirit-dependence? Which of Peter’s “strength strategies” do you relate to most? Courage Understanding Performance Helping others Devotion Passion Control Why? HEART – How did it make you feel? Have you ever experienced a season where God exposed a weakness you didn’t know was there? What did that experience teach you? One of the sermon questions was:  “Where do I trust me more than God?” How would you answer that honestly today? Which statement impacted you most? “Peter was not lying about his love. He was wrong about his strength.” “The rooster did not expose Peter to Jesus. It exposed Peter to Peter.” “Jesus did not restore Peter’s ego. He restored Peter’s calling.” “God is not looking for impressive people. He is looking for dependent people.” Why? HANDS – What are you going to do with it? What is one area of your life where God may be inviting you to stop relying on your own strength and start relying on His? Please be specific. Peter’s turning point came when he stopped drawing strength from himself. What practical step could you take this week to depend more on God? Examples: Begin your day in prayer. Ask for help. Admit a struggle. Invite accountability. Spend time in Scripture before making a decision. Check out our other audio series and video playlists that can help you find Jesus in every moment and then discover what’s next

  8. May 31

    Upside Down Way of God – Love Your Enemies

    Love Your Enemies What does it really mean to love your enemies? And how do you respond when people hurt you, oppose you, or work against you? In this message from our Upside Down Way of God series, we explore one of the most challenging teachings of Jesus from Matthew 5:43-48 and Luke 6:27-36. While culture teaches outrage, retaliation, and tribalism, Jesus teaches a different way: bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who mistreat you. Together, we unpack how hatred and bitterness shape the human soul, how modern culture profits from outrage, and why Jesus calls His followers to refuse becoming what wounded them. Most importantly, we discover that loving enemies is not weakness—it is one of the clearest ways we resemble our Father in heaven. Because while we were still enemies, God moved toward us through Christ. The world understands revenge. What shocks people is mercy. Matthew 5:43-48 Luke 6:27-36 Discussion topics HEAD – What did Jesus say to you through the Word? What stood out to you most from this week’s message?  Looking at Matthew 5:43-48, what was wrong with the religious teaching Jesus was correcting? Why do you think people naturally drift toward instead of Kingdom love? tribal love conditional love transactional love Which one of these four commands that Jesus gave feels the hardest to you personally, and why? love your enemies bless those who curse you do good to those who hate you pray for those who mistreat you HEART – How did it make you feel? What did it look like when bitterness or resentment began shaping: your thoughts your speech your attitude your peace Which line impacted you the most, and why? “The Kingdom refuses to become what wounded it.” “Hatred punishes the person carrying it.” “The cross is proof that God loves His enemies.” “You cannot love enemies while protecting ego.” Is there anyone you have quietly stopped seeing as an image-bearer and started viewing only as “the enemy”? HANDS – What are you going to do with it? What is one practical way you can actively show Kingdom love this week? praying for someone refusing gossip blessing instead of retaliating doing good quietly showing compassion releasing bitterness Take a moment and ask yourself: Is there someone I need to forgive?  Is there bitterness I’ve been rehearsing? Is hatred quietly discipling my heart? Now pray together for: healing from offense freedom from bitterness compassion for difficult people the ability to love like Jesus Check out our other audio series and video playlists that can help you find Jesus in every moment and then discover what’s next

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About

Navigation Church is a community where you can be real, ask hard questions, and discover your next step in God’s Story. We do that by translating confusing theology into real talk, openly sharing our struggles and triumphs, and helping people make sense of God and grow in relationship with him.

Information

  • Creator
    Navigation Church
  • Years Active
    2014 - 2026
  • Episodes
    104
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    Navigation Church