Sunday, April 27, 2025

Following Jesus isn't about earning approval or adding pressure - it's about walking with him, one step at a time. As we align our lives with this truth, we start to see how the spiritual foundation impacts everything else: our mindset, relationships, purpose, and how we handle the messiness of everyday life.

Culture and our own opinions often try to take the lead. But when we let Jesus guide us, we begin to discover a life of lasting purpose that stands firm against the world's pressures.

As we look ahead into this week, take a moment to ask yourself: What’s one area of my life where I need to stop trying to do it all on my own and start letting Jesus take the lead instead?

He's not asking for perfection - he's asking you to follow him and allow him to be your guide.

Discussion Questions:

Ice Breaker: What's one trend, phrase, or piece of advice you've heard lately that sounds good but doesn't quite align with what Jesus teaches?

Why do you think we separate our faith from other parts of life (like school, work, relationships, etc.)? What could it look like to invite Jesus into all of it?

Read Romans 12:1–2: What stands out in this passage when you consider following Jesus instead of the pressures of our minds and the role culture plays? What does it practically look like to "renew your mind"?

Where are you right now in your journey with Jesus - just getting started, stuck somewhere, or finding some freedom? What's helping you take steps forward?

Reflect and Respond: Where have you been fitting in your connection time with Jesus? What might change if you let your relationship with him guide your daily tasks from the start rather than adding him in as an afterthought?

Prayer:
Jesus, I am so thankful that following you isn't about being perfect but about the freedom I find when I trust you. Help me let go of the pressure to figure it all out on my own. Show me where I need to stop striving and start following, and lead me to where you'd like me to begin. I love you, I trust you, and I worship you. Amen.

Series Theme Verse:

John 8:31-32
Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

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