Lifegroup Discussion Guide

The Importance of Reverence for God’s Presence

Ps John Lindell

Scripture

2 Samuel 6:12-15

Now King David was told, “The Lord has blessed the household of Obed-Edom and everything he has, because of the ark of God.” So David went to bring up the ark of God from the house of Obed-Edom to the City of David with rejoicing. When those who were carrying the ark of the Lord had taken six steps, he sacrificed a bull and a fattened calf. Wearing a linen ephod, David was dancing before the Lord with all his might, while he and all Israel were bringing up the ark of the Lord with shouts and the sound of trumpets.

To read the full passage go to 2 Samuel 6:1-23.

Main Idea

God’s presence is holy. Good intentions and convenient methods can never replace humble reverence and obedience. Reverence brings blessing and joy; irreverence leads to loss and barrenness.

1. A lack of Reverence Results in Spiritual Blindness

Familiarity with the things of God can lead to irreverent behavior.

Where might you have grown casual with God—your language, worship habits, or approach to Scripture?

2. Good intentions do not make up for a lack of reverence

Our personal reverence for God’s presence matters. And our reverence for God in our public ministry matters.

What are some ways a person can tell that they have lost reverence for the presence of the Lord?

3. If you want God’s blessing treat His presence with reverence

When you love the presence of God you want to be in His presence! And you don’t want to miss one part of it!

What is something you can do this week to get into the presence of God more regularly?

4. When we reverence God there is joy as we worship Him

Our worship must always be first and foremost about God and not about us.

Practically speaking, what is the differences between self-focused worship, and God-focused worship?

5. A lack of reverence leads to a barren life

It’s possible to come to this church or another church and never see the fruit of your worship… never see God do anything for you.

Why do you think that a lack of reverence leads to a barren life?

Call To Action

Reflect:

It’s essential to know that a lack of reverence leads to less of His presence, while the opposite reveals more of His glory.

Respond:

What are practical ways to live reverently every day towards the Lord?

Remember:

What a blessing to know that God’s presence goes with us and that worship unto God reveals His presence in a whole new way!

Care Form

If someone in your group needs care,

We want to be there for them. The James River Care team is designed to walk alongside people in every season – to celebrate life’s best moment and offer support through the challenging ones. We want to be there for the following life events:

Marriage
Births
Hospitalization and deaths
Questions or concerns.

Please submit a request at: jamesriver.church/care-form

Additional Leader Resources

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