Sunday, November 23, 2025

John 10:10
“The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.”

We all hear competing voices every day. The enemy speaks through lies, distractions, and fear. These lies have a way of pulling us toward guilt and shame. When we listen to the noise of the world - the whispers of the thief - it can lead us to a place where we are either stuck by the weight of our past or running from it.

But here's the truth about these whispers: They are not the voice of God.

Jesus speaks life. His words bring clarity, peace, and purpose. If the words you're hearing aren't full of these things, then the voice you’re listening to is not his.

How do we know? Because Jesus invites us into a full and abundant life. And before we get ahead of ourselves, let's remember: this invitation isn’t dependent on perfection or on striving to become “good enough.” That’s not what grace and mercy are about.

Instead, Jesus invites each of us to live from a place of redemption, restoration, and hope.

As we look ahead into this week, let's tune our ears to the voice of the One who came to give us a real, rich, and soul-satisfying life. His truth always leads us forward, never backward.

Discussion Questions:

Ice Breaker: What’s one thing that recently made you feel encouraged or energized?

What would it look like if our community became a place where people experience the freedom Jesus offers, free from condemnation and full of grace?

Read Romans 8:1-2: Knowing there is no condemnation for those who belong to Jesus, where do you still carry guilt or shame that he has already set you free from?

What voices - internal or external - tend to pull you away from the freedom Jesus promises?

Reflect and Respond: What practical steps can you take this week to tune your heart to Jesus’ voice instead of the enemy’s lies? Who in your life needs to be reminded of the freedom we have in Christ, and how can you intentionally encourage them?

Prayer:
Jesus, thank you for being the One who speaks life, freedom, and truth over us. Help me silence every voice that brings guilt, shame, or fear, and teach me to recognize your voice above all others. Give me courage to walk in freedom, strength to let go of what holds me back, and compassion to share your hope with others. I love you, I trust you, and I worship you. Amen.

Series Theme Verse:

Romans 1:20
For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities - his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.

This post was written by Lori Tuckerman, Director of Content for the Daily LivingItOut.