Your Race Counts: You’re Not Running Alone

Apr 29

Group Leader Guide

Sermon Recap 🎬

Pastor John Mark Caton emphasizes the importance of running life’s spiritual race with a supportive community rather than alone. He draws parallels between the Christian journey and sports, illustrating that just as athletes need to train and prepare for challenges, believers should seek encouragement from others as they face life’s battles. Using the story of Elijah, pastor highlights the dangers of isolating oneself during difficult times and reminds the listener that countless witnesses are cheering them on, including those from biblical history. Ultimately, Pastor urges everyone to engage with their faith community, run together, and strive for the eternal prize, knowing their race counts for God and those around them.

Ice Breaker 🧊

If you could instantly master a skill or hobby, what would it be? Why is this one important to you?

Discussion Questions 💬

How can the examples of faith from Hebrews chapter 11 motivate you when facing challenges?

Pastor referenced the hall of faith in Hebrews 11, showing that many people faced difficult situations and overcame them through faith.
Reflect on a challenge you are currently facing. How can you apply a lesson from one of the examples in Hebrews 11 to your situation?

How can recognizing that you're part of a 'great cloud of witnesses' change how you view your struggles?

Pastor mentioned the support and encouragement we can draw from those who have gone before us in faith.
How can you draw strength and encouragement from the stories of others in your faith community when you're struggling with something?

What does it mean to 'run your race' in life, and why is it essential to have a community of support around you?

Pastor John Mark shared that we should gather a team of encouragers to help us on our journey, emphasizing that we are not supposed to run our race alone.
Can you think of specific people in your life who encourage you? How can you support them in their races?

Why do you think Pastor emphasized that the time to build your support team is before you encounter difficulties?

The sermon pointed out that waiting until you need help to find a team can complicate things when tough times come.
Consider a time when you needed help. How could having a support system earlier have made a difference in that situation?

What does it mean to 'run with perseverance' in your own life?

The sermon highlighted that running the race should involve endurance and effort, especially during tough times.
Can you identify an area where you need to practice perseverance? What steps can you take to keep going in that area?