"The stories we tell ourselves shape our lives. They shape who we believe we are, and this belief translates into who we become."
Recap
Every one of us has been shaped by a story, whether we realize it or not. The way we see ourselves, define success, and make decisions is formed by the stories we've come to believe. As we began Story-Formed Life, we discovered that many of the values of our culture, even the "American Dream", often conflict with God's Story. If we want our lives to be shaped by His Kingdom instead, we must intentionally train in God's Story. Faith isn't primarily the result of gaining more knowledge; it grows as our belief in God's Story deepens and we learn to trust Him more fully.
That's why Story-Formed Life is more than a Bible study. It's training in faith. Rather than simply receiving information, we learn together through discussion, wrestling with Scripture, asking questions, and seeking God's truth together. The invitation is to experience God's Story, allowing it to transform not only what we know, but how we live.
That's why Story-Formed Life is more than a Bible study. It's training in faith. Rather than simply receiving information, we learn together through discussion, wrestling with Scripture, asking questions, and seeking God's truth together. The invitation is to experience God's Story, allowing it to transform not only what we know, but how we live.
Reflection & Training
Use these reflection questions to help you dig deeper into what you talked about with your SFL group.
There is no pressure to answer all of the questions; these will not be turned in or graded. They are intended for your personal growth. These questions also make for great discussion with your spouse or friend.
There is no pressure to answer all of the questions; these will not be turned in or graded. They are intended for your personal growth. These questions also make for great discussion with your spouse or friend.
Shaped by Stories
How has the story embedded in your culture impacted your life and values?
Consider the ways that story conflicts with God's Story.
Talk/Think through a major decision you've made and how it was influenced by a story you believed.
Consider the ways that story conflicts with God's Story.
Talk/Think through a major decision you've made and how it was influenced by a story you believed.
What we believe matters
Experiences form beliefs > Beliefs determine behavior
What is the difference between knowledge and belief?
Brainstorm some of your key life experiences and consider how those shaped what you believe.
How do those beliefs impact the way you behave or the choices you make?
What is the difference between knowledge and belief?
Brainstorm some of your key life experiences and consider how those shaped what you believe.
How do those beliefs impact the way you behave or the choices you make?
Training in Faith
Reflect on a time that you've trained for something. What elements make the training work?
Why don't we train when it comes to faith?
What could it look like to begin training in faith?
Why don't we train when it comes to faith?
What could it look like to begin training in faith?
Share your Thoughts
Take a moment to share your reflections with your group in your group chat. Sharing how God is working in your heart will encourage others in your group.