Purpose Driven Life # 4

DISCIPLESHIP GROUPS Our Mission: To win, build and send Department of Defense leaders to live for Jesus Christ

The Purpose Driven Life 29 September - 3 October, 2003

LESSON # 4 – PLANNED FOR GOD’S PLEASURE (DAYS 11-14) INTRODUCTION  How is friendship with God similar to any other friendship, and how is it different? OBSERVATION/INTERPRETATION Note: This is the second lesson on purpose # 1, “You Were Planned for God’s Pleasure.” Rick Warren mentions six secrets to friendship with God. Today we’ll discuss some of those insights. Read Exodus 33:7-23 Note: We are privileged to see how Moses’ relationship with God grew over time. He was not perfect, but enjoyed a friendship with God that was unique at that time.  How did Moses meet with God?  How did God show His presence to those outside the tent? To Joshua (Moses’ deputy)?  Describe the relationship and conversations between Moses and God.  How does their conversation reflect honesty?  How can Moses be an intimate friend with God and still revere him? (p. 91) Psalm 25:14  Warren says genuine friendship is built on disclosure. (p. 94) What are some of the reasons we’re less than honest with God? (p. 92- 95)  Read Hebrews 4:14-16. How does our relationship with God through Jesus differ from Moses’ relationship with God? What can we confidently do now? Read Psalm 119:97-104  Warren says we establish a friendship with God by knowing his Word. (p. 90) According to this psalm, what value does David put on God’s Word?  What is the value of meditating on God’s word?  How does worry compare with meditation? (p. 90)  Sometimes we trust God’s wisdom and do what He says (follow His laws), even when we don’t understand. How does our obedience affect our intimacy with God? (p. 95) John 15:14

APPLICATION  Do you consider God a friend? What practical choices will enable you to draw closer to God?  Does your love for God show your love for His Word? Memorize and meditate on one verse this week, asking God to deepen your love for Him.

The key to friendship with God is not changing what you do, but changing your attitude toward what you do. What you normally do for yourself you begin doing for God, whether it is eating, bathing, working, relaxing or taking out the trash. Brother Lawrence Practicing the Presence of God There is nothing – absolutely nothing – more important than developing a friendship with God. It’s a relationship that will last forever. Paul told Timothy, “Some of these people have missed the most important thing in life – they don’t know God.” Have you been missing out on the most important thing in life? You can do something about it starting right now. Remember, it’s your choice. You are as close to God as you choose to be. p. 99