Week 2: You were planned for God's Pleasure

It's review/summary time again. I apologize for not getting this posted last night. Hopefully you'll forgive me. Again, these are discussion questions so if you want, we can discuss where your answers may differ from my own.

How is "living your whole life for God's pleasure" different from the way most people understand worship? I was brought up believing that worship took place on Sunday in church, or when good things happen. Living for God's pleasure means EVERYTHING I do is done to make Him smile, not me. Oh but how His smile makes me glad!

How is a friendship with God similar to any other friendship, and how is it different? I have to get to know God, spend time with Him and build the friendship, that's the same, but God won't adjust who He is for me. Sometimes with people you become friends and change each other, they start listening to rock and roll, you find yourself enjoying NASCAR. GOD is my friend, but He is UNCHANGING and He is NOT MY EQUAL.

Share something you learned from a time when God seemed distantI skipped this one and fought with the answer that I wanted to write and what is coming out instead. I learned that when God seems distant, that it's something I've done, or have to do. Sometimes He leaves me alone to see where I will turn for comfort. I've learned from events in my past, that He loves me and He was with me through every bad experience whispering, "I am here", "I have great things planned for you", "Trust in me." Quiet your mind in the midst of trouble, I bet He is telling you the same thing.

Which is easier for you -Public or Private worship? In which do you usually feel closer to God? Private worship is more difficult for me to do, but public worship comes naturally when I am around other believers worshiping. I feel closer to Him when I am in His body.

When is it appropriate to express anger at God?When I am hurt it is okay to express my anger. But my anger has to be expressed respectfully, if I am obedient to His will, then although I may be angry with a situation God has put me in, I should not be mad AT Him.

What fears surface when you think of surrendering your complete lie to Christ? That I will have to quit my job and move my whole family to be where God wants me to serve Him.