On Sunday, July 6, 2025, Teaching Pastor Bruce Hess’ message is “Message 4” from our BLESSED! series. Below are some questions for your personal or group reflection.
- I remember a time (I was around 9) when I decided I didn’t like my family. I was ready to be welcomed and adopted into another family. I told my dad and mom I was leaving and climbed onto my bike and proceeded to ride around the area not sure where I was headed. Of course, my dad kept an eye on me and when it started to get dark I decided to head back home. That was a wise decision. Was there ever a time in your life when you thought: I wish I was in another family? If so, what prompted those feelings?
- Bruce pointed out a comparison between justification and adoption in the life of a believer. What stood out to you about that comparison?
- Bruce said that adoption signifies we are not just ‘accepted’ by God, we are ‘cherished’ by Him. What does that tell us about how God values us?
- Bruce said it is a joy to be chosen. List some benefits of knowing God wanted you to be a part of his forever family.
- Our adoption, in effect, brought a smile to God’s face (one legitimate way of understanding the last phrase of Ephesians 1:5). Why do we tend to have doubts about how God views us?
- The full unveiling of our adoption is yet to come. Share some thoughts about how we might feel when that day arrives.
- Think of some specific people with whom you can use your ‘adoption story’ to share Jesus.
- Johnson Oatman suggested we count our blessings, name them one-by-one, and see what God has done. Spend some time in prayer thanking God for His great blessings in your life. Ask him to refresh your perspective, rejuvenate your soul, and to rekindle your gratitude.