SERMON DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1. Read Genesis 32:22-26. What are some things inside of you that need to be healed, transformed, touched, restored, reformed, and/or recreated? Discuss. What is holding you back and why are you wrestling with God on these issues?

2. Read Genesis 32:27. God knows who you are. He asked Jacob what His name was. Why do you think that is? Do you know who you are? How do you think that God sees you? Discuss with the group.

3. Read Genesis 32:28. God gave Jacob a new name and a new identity. When you stop striving with God, what do you think will be your name and identity? What is God hoping to accomplish in your life and how does He want to use you differently than you have been used in the past?

4. Read Genesis 32:29-30. We often struggle with the old person we were when God has given us a new identity. This is often a daily struggle. What are some things that you have a hard time releasing from your past? How can you overcome those things?

5. Read Jeremiah 29:11-13. God’s plans and identity for us are so much greater than we can imagine for ourselves. What prevents you from receiving His plans and living them out? Why do we continually struggle with entrusting God with our future and our welfare? Discuss.

6. Read Proverbs 28:13. According to this passage, why is it important to be open with our sins and mistakes? Does this mean we tell everyone our secrets?

7. Read Hebrews 3:7-11 & Proverbs 14:12. Why do we continually struggle with holding onto control and rebelling against God? How can we do better in the future?

8. Read James 4:8 & 1 Peter 5:5b-6. God requires us to humble ourselves in order to set things straight in our lives. How can we humble ourselves and dedicate our entire lives to Him. What can you personally do? Discuss.