Blessed: I Need God

Oct 5

Small Group Leader’s Guide

Sermon: Blessed Part 1 – I Need God!
Focus: Matthew 5:1–3, Ephesians 2:8–9, Psalm 1

Ask: “What is one thing you’ve wanted but had to admit you needed help to get or achieve?”

Read aloud:
- Matthew 5:3 (NIV): “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
- Ephesians 2:8–9 (NIV): “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
- Psalm 1:1–3 (NIV): “Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.”

In your own words, what does it mean to be “poor in spirit”?
How does admitting our need for God challenge the way our culture defines “blessed”?
The sermon said, “Blessing is an inside job.” How have you experienced God’s blessing in difficult circumstances?
Why do you think God values humility and dependence over strength and self-sufficiency?
Read Ephesians 2:8–9 again. How does understanding grace as a gift impact your view of your relationship with God?
Psalm 1 speaks of delighting in God’s law. What daily habits help you stay rooted in God’s presence and promises?

Invite each person to share one area in life where they need God’s help this week.
Challenge: This week, practice admitting your need to God in prayer and to a trusted friend.

Summarize: True blessing comes from humble dependence on God, not from our own achievements.
Pray: Ask God to help the group embrace humility, receive His grace, and remain rooted in Him through all circumstances.

Leader Guide