Challenges to Seeking

Seek
Written By Patrick Burch

OPENING THOUGHT

Seeking God first is challenging, but you might be surprised by the reasons why.

It’s natural to think that persecution might tempt believers to give up putting God first. But persecution did not hinder growth in the early church. In fact, with every wave of persecution, the church grew!

  • After Stephen was stoned, “those who were scattered went about preaching the word” (Acts 8:4).

  • After James the apostle was killed, Peter was imprisoned, “but the word of God increased and multiplied” (Acts 12:24).

  • When Paul was put in prison, he said his imprisonment “really served to advance the gospel” (Phil. 1:12).

What really distracts us from seeking the Lord?

EXPLORING GOD’S WORD

Revelation 3:14-22

  • What was the condition of the Laodiceans in their own estimation?

  • What was their condition according to the Lord?

  • How does prosperity test our devotion to God?

Isaiah 55:6-9

  • Why do we procrastinate important things?

  • How does Isaiah’s advice help us to overcome procrastination?

  • Is there any hope for a person who has been wasting time?

1 Corinthians 10:12-13

  • “Temptation” can refer to trials as well as temptations to sin. What challenges to seeking are addressed by these verses?

  • Generally speaking, Paul refers to tests in life. Does he say it’s possible to avoid tests? Why does God allow his people to be tested?

  • What will God provide to help us face temptations and trials if we continue to seek him first?

2 Timothy 6:6-8

  • If seeking God is the race you’re running, are you closer to the finish line today than you were three months ago? If not, what does that say about your growth?

  • What causes stunted growth in our spiritual lives?

  • How does the “crown of righteousness” change your perspective on the hardships you've faced?

Patrick Burch
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