Your Assignment
Discussion Guide
This sermon focuses on the story of Zacharias and Elizabeth from Luke 1, emphasizing how God speaks with purpose and gives assignments to His people. Pastor Ruth explores how Zacharias received a prophetic word about having a son (John the Baptist) who would prepare the way for Jesus, but struggled with unbelief. The message highlights the power of our words - both to speak life or death over God's purposes - and the importance of stewarding the assignments God gives us. Elizabeth's example of protecting her pregnancy by secluding herself for five months demonstrates wisdom in guarding what God has entrusted to us from negative voices. The sermon concludes with a call to recognize our own assignments from God and to partner with the Holy Spirit to fulfill them.
Intro Prayer
Father God, we come before You with open hearts this morning. We ask that You would prepare our minds and spirits to receive what You want to speak to us today. Help us to set aside any distractions or preconceived notions, and give us ears to hear Your voice. Holy Spirit, we invite You to move among us and reveal the assignments and purposes You have for each person in this group. May we be receptive to Your word and ready to respond in faith and obedience. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Ice Breaker
What's one Christmas tradition from your childhood that you still enjoy or remember fondly today?
Key Verses
Psalm 138:2
Isaiah 59:19-21
Luke 1:6
Luke 1:13
Proverbs 18:21
Psalm 141:3
2 Peter 1:3
Questions
How do you typically respond when God speaks to you about something that seems impossible, like Zacharias did?
What are some ways God has spoken to you in the past, and how did you recognize His voice?
Why do you think Elizabeth chose to hide herself for five months during her pregnancy, and what can we learn from this?
How can we 'set a guard over our mouths' as mentioned in Psalm 141:3, especially when speaking about God's promises?
What assignments or callings do you sense God has given you, and how are you stewarding them?
How can we protect the things God has spoken to us from negative voices or discouragement?
In what ways can our words either bring life or death to the purposes of God in our lives and others?
How does having the Holy Spirit help us fulfill the assignments God gives us?
Life Application
This week, identify one specific assignment or calling you believe God has given you. Spend time in prayer asking the Holy Spirit to show you practical steps to move forward in that assignment. Also, practice 'setting a guard over your mouth' by speaking only words of life and faith over yourself, your family, and the purposes of God in your life.
Key Takeaways
God always speaks with purpose and gives assignments to His people
Our words have the power to bring life or death to God's purposes
We need to guard what God has entrusted to us from negative voices and unbelief
The Holy Spirit equips us with everything we need to fulfill our assignments
God's timing and ways are different from ours, requiring faith and obedience
Ending Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for speaking to us and giving us assignments that matter for Your kingdom. Help us to steward well what You have entrusted to us. Give us wisdom to guard our mouths and speak only words of life over the purposes You have for us and others. Fill us afresh with Your Holy Spirit so that we can walk in the power and authority You've given us. May we be faithful like Elizabeth and Zacharias to believe Your word and see Your promises fulfilled. In Jesus' mighty name, Amen.
