Going Deeper in “The Gift You Couldn't Afford”
Read the following a few times:
Rom 4:1-15, Gen 15:6; Heb 11:8-12; Luke 18:9-14
Reflect on the following:
1. How does comparison (grades, sports, social media) make us feel like we have to “earn” our worth?
2. Abraham trusted God’s promise before he saw the results. Why is trusting before seeing so difficult?
3. Abraham waited years without seeing the promise fulfilled. Why is waiting so hard for us?
4. In what ways might we subtly drift into trying to “afford” what God only gives as a gift?
5. If righteousness is “credited” to us, what does that say about how God sees us when we trust Him?
6. What happens when we turn faith into a checklist instead of a relationship?
7. In Genesis 15, Abraham questions God — but he still believes. What does that teach us about doubt and faith?
8. What happens when we turn faith into a checklist instead of a relationship?
9. How does knowing God keeps promises change how we think about our future?
10. If we really believed grace is free, how would it change how we treat people who mess up?
Spiritual Challenges:
1. Trust Before You See - Choose one area where you’re anxious about the future (college, sports, friendships). Pray specifically, trusting God’s promise rather than trying to control the outcome.
2. Give Grace - Show unexpected grace to someone — especially someone who doesn’t “deserve” it. That’s how God treats us.
3. Look at the Stars - One night this week, step outside and look at the sky. Remember: God keeps promises, even when we can’t see the outcome yet.