Grace Chapel Wilsonville Grace Chapel

Martin Luther once said, "I have so much to do that I shall spend the first three hours in prayer." Prayer is an essential part of our life. Never be too blessed or successful to forget to pray. Prayer is the source of our strength and safeguard, acquiring and sustaining blessings. Make prayer a habit.

Our Heavenly Father wants to speak identity over us.

In this week's message, Pastor Mike explores the fundamental principles of Christian faith and living. He emphasizes the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity, the transformative power of suffering, and the necessity of spiritual growth through humility, community, and obedience. Pastor Mike encourages us to lead lives of distinction, deeply rooted in faith and characterized by an unwavering pursuit of God's will, even in the midst of life's trials and tribulations. This is the true path of discipleship and transformation.

Throughout our Living Series, we have discussed what it looks like to live surrendered, Jesus-following, holy, consecrated lives.

We have practiced praying for healing, individual and community confession, and asked God to show us areas where we can live consecrated lives. We want to hear how the Holy Spirit is working in your life!

In what area of your life are you walking in more freedom or have you experienced healing? If you would like to share your story with us, please answer the questions on the form linked below.

Resurrection offers a future life, a reconciled life, and a refreshed life.

Acts 1:8 "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere, in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the universe."

1. Holy Spirit = God's Active Personal Presence
2. Witness = Telling people about Jesus
3. Ends of the Earth = Everywhere  


Discussion Questions:

Read Acts 10 
In verses 2-9, Cornelius and Peter both functioned in their everyday/average rhythms of talking with God when they each had a vision. Do you have a regular/average rhythm of prayer? If so, what does that look like? If not, what could a regular rhythm be for your life? 

In verse 20, God used that time to invite them into a mission with Him. How do you keep your ear/ life attuned to the invitation of God? Can you walk into your mission 'with no doubts'? 

Jesus had a high view of the Holy Spirit and the role of the Holy Spirit in his life. What does living entirely dependent on the Holy Spirit look like in your life? 

In verses 34-35, God called Peter into a time of repentance in disqualifying people to be a part of the Kingdom of God. We often disqualify ourselves and others, too. Which of these resonates with your heart? 

Even me, Lord? Do you disqualify yourself because of your story, sin, comparison with others, and perceived value?

Even my prodigal Lord? Yes, our Father's heart is turned toward your prodigal. We live in hope because of the gospel laid out in this chapter! Believe, pray, keep inviting! Even that person, Lord? We live in this broken world and experience hurt, frustration, and righteous anger in our human relationships. We are called to love, forgive, bless, and pray for our enemies. 

Group Practice: 

With your group, identify the 'even' statement that you know God wants to address in your life. Pray for one another - Pray for value and identity over those feeling discouraged/disqualified. Pray hope with those whose hearts are breaking for their prodigal. Pray for Peter's repentance over those struggling with an 'other.' Use this prayer of forgiveness to release 'that person' and your heart!