Message Notes for June 30, 2019

Series: Pathways

Title: Pathway to Success – Psalm 127

John 14:6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

What does success look like in the world?

What does success look like for God?

Psalm 127 Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.² It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep. Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. ⁴ Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one\’s youth.⁵ Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.

God describes success as faithfulness to Him.

Jeremiah 17:7-8  Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord.⁸ He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit.”

Matthew 6:33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

The reward of faith.

Revelation 2:10 & 3:11

Family/Group Study Notes for the Week of July 7, 2019

Series: Pathways

Title: Pathway to Success – Psalm 127

• What does success look like for you?  How would you know if you were successful? Discuss with each other.
• Look up a list of quotes on the internet of how famous people would describe success.  Choose a few and share with each other your thoughts on these commentaries.
• Read Psalm 127.  How would this passage describe success?  What is the role of both God and humans in success? How is this description of success different from your own definition or that of those quoted? How does this passage have you consider success from an eternal perspective vs. finite/earthly perspective?
• What keeps you up at night?  What does God lovingly want to give you in Psalm 127:2?  How would you need to trust God differently?
• Read Matthew 6:33. What would success look like from this passage?  Based on Psalm 127, how would partnership with God complete a kingdom agenda in our lives as well as provide for the things we need?  What might that look like practically for you?
• Read Philippians 3:7-11.  How does Paul describe success in this passage?  What is he valuing more than earthly success? What would it look like for you to value God’s Kingdom agenda within the context of your work, family and personal economy?
• Gather in smaller groups and pray for each other.