A Tender Heart in a Tough World

ey Scriptures

“I said, ‘Plant the good seeds of righteousness, and you will harvest a crop of love. Plow up the hard ground of your hearts, for now is the time to seek the Lord,

that he may come and shower righteousness upon you.” Hosea 10:12

“And I will give them singleness of heart and put a new spirit within them. I will take away their stony, stubborn heart and give them a tender, responsive heart, so they will obey my decrees and regulations. Then they will truly be my people, and I will be their God.” Ezekiel 11:19-20

“Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.” Proverbs 4:23

Start talking. Find a conversation starter for your group.

• Have you ever tried to plant crops or care for a plant before? Were you successful or not? Why do you think so?
• What did you learn during this week's message about harvesting our hearts?

Start thinking. Ask a question to get your group thinking.

• Was there ever a time you witnessed someone giving generosity change their life when they thought they were changing someone else? Have you ever experienced that same thing? Explain.
• Think back to a time that you were going through a storm. If you didn't press into the Lord, what was the outcome?

Start sharing. Choose a question to create openness.

• What are some things or people in your life that you need to erase the wrongs and forgive to experience the fullness of God's glory?
• Where in our life is there soil that needs to be plowed? How do you begin?

Start praying. Be bold and pray with power.

Lord, there are so many aspects of my life that you have delivered me from, and I thank you. You are the alpha and the omega, and I am so grateful that you bring tools into my life to guide me in righteousness. Holy Spirit, guide me to soils in my life that need to be plowed and convict me through this week to become more like you and less like me. Forgive me for my sins, and give me a soft heart. Show me who needs forgiveness, and I will lay it all on the cross. Give me the courage to be generous above and beyond, oh Lord. We love you and worship you in Jesus' mighty name, Amen!

Start doing. Commit to a step and live it out this week.

• Begin to plow soil in your life that has yet to be attended to and needs it this week.
• Give generously, forgive others, be thankful, and pray throughout your week.