Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Heroes & Villains Week 3 - Anger

Connect leaders, this week's IMax ("I Maximize the Message") discussion guide is all about Anger. Batman and Joker both had to deal with anger, brought about by injustice. But they reacted in very different ways.

A. Read 1st Peter 2:12 and James 1:12
Have you ever faced an injustice in life? An adverse situation that was completely out of your control, and caused you emotional pain?
What emotions rise up within us when we deal with injustices?
Anger is a difficult emotion to channel. Are there constructive uses of anger?
In what situations do you feel is it acceptable to express anger?

B. Read Ephesians 4:26b – 27, and Proverbs 22:24-25
Anger causes you to not listen to others – have you found this to be true in your own life?
How can you counteract that?
Have you ever said or emailed something you really regretted? What did you do to “fix” the situation?
What was the outcome of that situation?

C. Read Ephesians 4:26, 1 Peter 3:9 and Philippians 1:21
Share with others in the group any coping mechanisms you are familiar with that can help them deal with anger.
Do you believe there is a relationship between unresolved anger and bitterness?
If you have any key scriptures that you use to help you to deal with anger, please share them with your group.

Connect Group Challenge – When faced with injustice, and you feel yourself getting angry, CHOOSE use that anger and frustration to make an impact for good. ENDURE like a hero – the reward is great. A hero can use even adverse situations to grow stronger, and help others.

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

What is "G"?


Generosity

The "G Offering" is an opportunity to help the salvation of the world through heroic acts of generosity.
 

When?

October 10 & 11, 2009 at all campuses

How?

  1. Begin to pray about the amount of your “G Offering.”
  2. Participate in the “G Offering” the weekend of October 10 & 11.

What?

Our goal is $500k above and beyond our weekly tithes.

Why?

  • Because there are orphans and widows in distress.(James 1:27)
  • Because there are people who are hungry and thirsty. (Matthew 25:35)  
  • Because there is a need to go into the world and make disciples. (Matthew 28:19)

On the radar!


Leaders! Wanted to keep some HOT items in the forefront as we run after it!
  • Beach Baptism is this weekend - Sept. 27th at 5pm - in Ft. Lauderdale Beach! Come on out with your Connect Groups & celebrate life change, enjoy BBQ & a great time. Rain or shine!!
  • "G" offering - our opportunity to be Heroes to this world! Be praying about what that looks like for you & your family, and for your Connect Group!
  • Check out our new Connection Center at all the campuses. It's your stage! iConnect
Thanks for all you do to run after IT with us. Lets connect & partner with people to help them reach their God-Potential!

Saturday, September 12, 2009

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Walk with me...


WALK WITH ME along paths of trust.  The most direct route between point A and point B on your life-journey is the path of unwavering trust in Me.  When your faith falters, you choose a trail that meanders and takes you well out of your way.  You will get to point B eventually, but you will have lost precious time and energy.  As soon as you realize you have wandered from your trust -path, look to Me and whisper, "I trust You, Jesus."  This affirmation will help you get back on track.
 
The farther you roam along paths of unbelief, the harder it is to remember that I am with you.  Anxious thoughts branch off in all directions, taking you father and farther from awareness of My Presence.  You need to voice your trust in Me frequently.  This simple act of faith will keep you walking along straight paths with Me.  Trust in Me with all your heart, and I will make your paths straight. 
 
ISAIAH 26:4;  PSALM 9:10;  PSALM 25:4-5;  PROVERBS 3:5-6
 
I trust you God.