Invested (Part 1): The Long Term Return

TO START: Every breath, relationship, ability, and financial resource is entrusted to us for partnering and fueling God's work. In the Invested series we unpack how we invest our lives, especially our finances, to align ourselves in the present with God's coming future. 

In this week’s message, we hear Paul’s words to his friend and co-laborer Timothy about living for God’s eternal future rather than the temporary things of this world.

TO READ: 2 Timothy 4:6-8

TO DISCUSS:

(1.) What’s a piece of wisdom someone a bit further along in life has shared with you that has stayed with you?

(2.) When Paul describes his life as being poured out like a drink offering, what story or moment from Acts or his letters comes to mind that illustrates this?

(3.) When it comes to pouring your life out for what God cares about, what holds you back more: everyday distractions or doubts about how God can use you?

(4.) In his second letter to Timothy, Paul talks about finishing the race of faith well. Who is someone you’ve seen firsthand invest in God’s kingdom and finish well?

(5.) In 2 Timothy 4:8, Paul looks ahead to the reward for faithfully investing in God’s Kingdom. What are you investing in God’s church today that you hope will have an eternal impact?

TO CLOSE/TO PRAY: Consider following the prayer exercise below

Leader: Invite the group to take a deep breath and become still before God. 

Leader: Say something like, “Let’s quiet our hearts before we listen to Paul’s words to Timothy” then read 2 Timothy 4:6-8 slowly one last time. 

Leader: Take a moment to soak in Paul’s words, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I kept the faith.” – What might it look like in your own life today?” (Pause a couple minutes) 

Leader: “Now is the time to share anything that bubbled up as you sat in prayer on that question.” 

Once folks have finished sharing and things quiet down, consider closing in prayer in light of what comes up.