You can't win a battle you don't know you're fighting. The enemy is real, his attacks are strategic, and your faith, your family, and your future are on the line. But through Jesus, you've been given everything you need to stand firm. You weren't built to just get by—you were built for battle.
Conversation Starters:
Have some fun as you break the ice
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Joe wanted a cool piece of armor and not shoes - where did you think a sermon about shoes was going at first?
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Why do you think Paul connects peace with shoes here?
Key Scriptures:
Let God’s word frame the conversation. Take a minute to read this selected passage together as a group
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Ephesians 6:13–15 - “Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared.”
Discussion Questions:
Pick a few questions below to guide your time
Start Sharing:
Choose a question or two to create openness.
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When life gets uncertain, what's your natural response: worry, control, isolation, distraction, anger, something else?
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What's one area of your life where you're trusting Jesus but still trying to control the outcome?
Start Thinking:
Chose a question or two to think critically about the subject.
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Why do you think Paul looked at a soldiers footwear and automatically connected that with peace?
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What is it about the Gospel that gives us peace?
Make it Personal:
Choose a question or two to help you identify your best next step.
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Joe said, “You don't find peace by getting life under control. You find peace by placing your life under Christ.” What do you think is the difference between those two approaches to life?
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What can be your reaction next time you feel like your feet are slipping out from under you?
Next Steps:
Everybody has a next step. Check out some ideas below to help you grow by doing.
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What's one thing you're holding onto that you sense God asking you to release?
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Who needs to be part of your “fight club”?
Prayer:
Invite God to do what only he can.
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God thank you that peace is yours to give and that you give it when we surrender control to you. I pray that you would help us to surrender the thing we are holding onto so that we can have peace. And God we pray that you would give us soldiers in our lives to be in our fight club as we fight for faith.