Discussion question for December 9, 2022.

When we are secure in our identity we know what we have to offer to a community.  What are the key characteristics of belonging, and how do you know you are accepted?  How does your relationship with God demonstrate that you belong with Him?  How would you define “meaningful participation” in a relationship or group setting?  What attributes have you had affirmed by someone you trust?  How else have you discovered your gifts in a group setting?  How do you know when you are working in your strengths versus striving to adapt to expectations or cope with stress?

Discussion question for December 2, 2022.

The mature person is secure in his identity and confident in knowing who he is.  How have your past choices and decisions helped you become secure?  Where do you get self-confidence?  How have you managed your uniqueness to fit into healthy relationships with others?  How committed are you to your identity?  What parts of your identity are changed by growth and maturity, and what stays the same?  When should you strive to change your character, values, gifts, or desires?  What changes are the current work of God in your life right now?

Discussion question for November 18, 2022.

Mature people understand that they have the authority and freedom to make choices.  How have your decisions influenced your personality?  What are your primary considerations when making a choice, and what guides you?  How willing are you to try new things?  What does it mean to you that you are free to make mistakes?  How do you respond when you realize you made a bad decision?  How has God used consequences to guide and shape your identity?  How does your purpose influence the choices you make?  What do you need for increased confidence in decision making?

Discussion question for November 11, 2022.

One measure of maturity is a stable or persistent identity, one that doesn’t change based on circumstances.  How have the words or actions of others affected your self-concept?  What conditions tempt you to change your behavior or persona?  How well do you know and accept your identity?  What specific fears or threats have motivated you to change your image in the past?  How do you reconcile being proud of yourself versus having humility?  How does your self-concept  influence your ability to join a group or find belonging in a family?

Discussion question for November 4, 2022.

The Bible says that gifts are given and empowered by the Spirit according to His will.  How have you discovered your gifts and strengths?  What are you able to do that is seemingly simple for you, yet has great value?  When are you tempted to hide or deny a strength?  What happens when you use a gift in your own strength?  How does your gift(s) help you fit into the body of Christ?  How have you seen your gift bring glory to God?  Why did God give you the gifts He has instead of different ones?

Discussion question for October 28, 2022.

Paul said he was content in all circumstances, which is a mark of maturity.  What brings you satisfaction?  How does a sense of contentment or satisfaction help you control your cravings?  What key factors help you distinguish between your needs and your wants?  How do you embrace limited consumption?  What happens to you physically, emotionally, and spiritually when you fast?  What is God’s purpose in your affliction or fasting?  How do you eliminate things in your life that promise satisfaction but never deliver?

We must persevere to accomplish hard things.  What have you used for motivation to push through a tough task?  How do you distinguish between perseverance and stubbornness?  What example do you have of seeing increased value by doing the hard thing?  How do you know when you are striving and should give it a rest?  How does your prayer life integrate with difficulties?  What has God used to build your capacity for obedience?  What has He used to build your confidence and faith?

Discussion question for October 14, 2022.

Overcoming an orphan mentality and poverty mentality requires an understanding of God as Provider.  How have you seen God provide for you in the past?  What promises do you claim regarding this concept? What channels or vehicles does He use for making provision for you?  How do you respond when there seems to be a lack?  What has been your experience of trying to provide for yourself?  How is your attitude affected by knowing God provides?  What examples do you have that God has provided more than enough for you?

Discussion question for October 7, 2022.  NOTE: No meetings for the rest of September.

Maturity requires one to have a good understanding of where they belong.  How well do you fit in with society in general?  What causes you to feel like an outsider?  What environment allows you to be most like yourself?  Where do you find the greatest success in following your purpose?  How have you been affirmed and welcomed in the past?  What is your most effective attitude for fitting in with a new group or when you meet new people?  What can you do to increase your sense of belonging?

Discussion question for September 9, 2022.  Note: No meeting on 9/2/22.

Children need to learn how to communicate; how to ask for what is needed. What are your primary ways of sharing thoughts and ideas?  How do you share your feelings?  How would you describe your communication style?  How well are you able to communicate your thoughts and emotions?  What is your “go-to” voice when sharing is urgent?  What circumstances challenge your ability to communicate, or threaten to take away your voice? How effective are you at asking for what you need?  How would you describe the relationship between being a good listener and being a good sharer?