“Trusting Jesus – Part 1- the Meaning of Faith”

Memory Verse:  Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.  Hebrews 11:1

As you continue to study the book of Hebrews, ask Him for understanding and wisdom as you study - take time to focus on Him as He makes you aware of why He is so completely worthy of your trust!

Review this Week’s MEMORY VERSE (Heb 11:1).  Meditate, Review! Thank Him for the gift of faith!

DISCUSS: What did I learn in the Sunday School lesson and the sermon about “The Meaning of Faith?”

Meditate upon (Heb 11:1-7) using 2PROAPT (on the back or at the bottom if online).  Be still before Him and think about what you have just read. In your own words, summarize what the word “Faith” means to you.

• Having faith means different things to different people. What are some ways people understand it? 
• According to this passage, what are the characteristics of true faith?
• (V 6) tells us that God “rewards those who earnestly seek” Him; what do you think this means? How have you seen this proven in your own life?
• What would you say is more important in pleasing God: a heart attitude of faith or obedient action?  (Jas 2:14,26)

Apply the Word

• Do you think you have the kind of faith described in this passage?  Why or why not?  
  
• What does it mean in (v 6) to be “without faith”?  If one lives “without faith”, then what does he or she actually live by?
  

(Resource – Faith Foundations Study Guide, Alan Perkins)

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Intimacy with God: Your Quiet Time –2PROAPT

Two key elements in having intimacy with God are prayer and the Word.  We come to the Word of God not just to read it, but to understand what He is saying to us and to determine how He wants us to apply it to our lives; asking Him for the strength and will to apply it.  Finally, writing it down and sharing it with another so that they might also learn.

Study a short passage (couple of paragraphs) using an acrostic called: 2PROAPT.

• Pray – Ask the Holy Spirit to illuminate the passage and give you understanding. Remember, your goal is to meet with Him, so spend time in Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving and Supplication (ACTS) – the supplication is to understand the Word, to know Him and to enjoy Him!
  
• Preview – Read the passage quickly; what’s the topic or theme? Did you notice anything in particular?
  
• Read – Read the passage again more slowly.  Is God trying to tell you something?  Is there something you haven’t noticed before?  
  
• Observe – Read the passage again out loud.  Look at each word; each phrase; underline or mark key words; vary the emphasis you place on the words.  What is He saying to you; what is He asking you to do?  Paraphrase the passage in your own words.
  
• Apply – Is there a command to obey; a sin to confess or an action to take?  How can you apply this scripture to your life?  Does He want you to do it now?
  
• Pray – Pray that He would enable you to do what He has told you to do in applying the scripture. Memorize (Phil 2:13); stand upon its truth. Be still before Him, listen, and let the Word saturate your thoughts and your heart.
  
• Tell – Write in your journal what He has revealed to you, then share with someone what you have learned. Don’t place your light under a basket (Mt 5:15). Remember to have a plan, a place, a purpose (to meet with Him), and finally – PERSEVERE, even when you don’t feel like it or don’t think you have the time, give God the “first fruits” of your day! Early mornings are wonderful in His presence; set your alarm clock 20 minutes earlier.