Step By Step [Small Steps And Leaps Of Faith] Discussion Guide

Summary
This sermon explores the story of the Israelites crossing the Jordan River in Joshua chapter 3, focusing on taking steps of faith even when circumstances seem impossible. Jonathan emphasizes that God often asks us to step into the unknown before we see His miraculous work unfold. Using the metaphor of a parent holding a child's hand while walking, the message illustrates how God guides our steps and keeps us from falling even when we stumble. The Israelites had to step into the flooding Jordan River before it parted, demonstrating that faith requires action before seeing results. The sermon challenges believers to identify their own "Jordan Rivers”… the overwhelming circumstances they face… and trust God to fulfill His promises as they take steps of obedience toward His calling.

Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, we come before You today with grateful hearts, knowing that You are the God who leads us step by step. As we gather together to study Your Word and learn from the example of the Israelites, we ask that You open our hearts and minds to what You want to teach us today. Help us to be receptive to Your voice and willing to apply Your truths to our lives. Lord, we know that each of us may be facing our own Jordan Rivers… circumstances that seem impossible to overcome. Give us the faith to trust in Your guidance and the courage to take the steps You're calling us to take. We pray that our time together would draw us closer to You and to one another. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.

Ice Breaker
Share about a time when you had to take a bigger step than expected to keep your balance while walking… maybe you tripped on uneven pavement or misjudged a curb. How did it feel in that moment?

Key Verses

• Psalm 37:23-24
• Joshua 3:8-17
• Hebrews 11:1
• 2 Corinthians 5:7

Questions

• What does it mean to you that God 'delights in every detail of your life' as mentioned in Psalm 37:23-24? How does this change your perspective on daily challenges?
• The priests had to step into the Jordan River before it parted, unlike at the Red Sea where it parted first. Why do you think God sometimes asks us to act in faith before we see the miracle?
• What are some 'Jordan Rivers' in your life right now… circumstances that seem impossible to overcome on your own?
• How can we better recognize God's guidance in our daily lives, similar to how the Israelites followed the Ark of the Covenant?
• The sermon mentioned that taking steps of faith is 'not a one-time event' but a daily choice. What does daily faith look like in practical terms?
• Share about a time when you took a step of faith and experienced God's faithfulness. How did that experience strengthen your trust in Him?
• What's the difference between stepping out in faith versus being reckless or presumptuous? How can we discern God's leading?
• Jonathan said 'God didn't ask them to do the impossible, He asked them to trust Him.' How does this perspective change how you approach overwhelming situations?

Life Application
This week, identify one specific 'Jordan River' in your life… an area where God may be calling you to step out in faith. Take one concrete step toward trusting God in that situation, whether it's having a difficult conversation, applying for a new opportunity, starting a ministry, or addressing a relationship issue. Remember that God is holding your hand through the process, and commit to taking that step even if you can't see the full outcome yet.

Key Takeaways

• God guides our steps and delights in every detail of our lives, holding us by the hand even when we stumble
• Faith often requires us to step into the unknown before we see God's miraculous work unfold
• We must recognize God's guidance through His presence, prayer, and Scripture before we can take steps of faith
• When we follow God's leading, He is faithful to fulfill His promises, even in impossible circumstances
• Taking steps of faith is not a one-time event but requires daily commitment and ongoing obedience to God's call

Ending Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for this time of fellowship and learning together. As we've studied how the Israelites crossed the Jordan River, we're reminded that You are the same God who goes before us today. Father, we ask for courage to step into the waters of uncertainty, trusting that You will part the way as we move forward in obedience. Help us to remember that You are holding our hands, guiding our steps, and that You delight in every detail of our lives. Give us the faith to take the steps You're calling us to take this week, knowing that You are faithful to Your promises. May we walk by faith and not by sight, trusting in Your perfect timing and provision. We commit our Jordan Rivers to You, Lord, and ask for Your strength to move forward. In Your precious and holy name, Jesus, we pray. Amen.