Encountering God

April 12 | Discipleship Guide

Be Real Together:

Take a few minutes to catch up, tell stories, and laugh together.
If you’re launching a new Group, trust and friendship take time to build. Take turns each week having someone share a bit of their story.

Read Together: 1 Samuel 3:1–10 CSB

In this passage, we see a young Samuel encounter God in a personal and transformative way. Although he had been around spiritual activity, he had not yet learned to recognize God’s voice. God was already pursuing Samuel, but Samuel needed help becoming aware and responsive. This story reminds us that encountering God isn’t just for a select few or rare moments—it’s something we can grow in as we become more receptive to His voice and more aware of His presence in our everyday lives.

The One Question:
If you only have time for one question, ask this one.

How are you currently positioning yourself to hear from and encounter God in your everyday life?

Grow Together:
Use these questions to go deeper with your Group or for personal reflection.

In 1 Samuel 3, God is speaking, but Samuel doesn’t recognize His voice at first. Why do you think it can be difficult for us to recognize when God is speaking? What tends to distract or hinder you from being receptive and aware of God’s presence?
How does Samuel respond to God? In what ways are you challenged or encouraged by His response?
Of the three ways to encounter God that were mentioned in the sermon—Scripture, the Holy Spirit, and the Saints—which one feels most natural for you right now? Which one feels most lacking? Review the sermon slides below and discuss where you'd like to be more intentional in these three areas.
How have you experienced God through Scripture, the Holy Spirit, or other people in the past?
What would it look like for you to move from “surviving” spiritually to actually “thriving” in your relationship with God? To set up a lifestyle where you could make space to encounter God each and every day?

Pray Together:

Thank God that He is not distant, but actively pursuing a relationship with you.
Ask Him to increase your awareness of His presence in your daily life.
Pray for a receptive heart that is ready to listen and respond when He speaks.
Ask the Holy Spirit to help you encounter God through Scripture, through His presence, and through community.
Pray for your group—that you would help one another grow in recognizing and responding to God’s voice.

Next Steps:

Scripture:
- Set aside 10–15 minutes each day this week to read the Bible.
- Choose one verse this week and commit it to memory so you can carry it with you throughout your day.
Holy Spirit:
- Begin each day with a simple prayer: “Speak, Lord, your servant is listening.” Pay attention to nudges, prompts, or convictions.
- Invite God into ordinary moments (driving, working, walking) and practice awareness of His presence.
Saints:
- Share something God is teaching you with a friend or group member this week.
- Take a step toward deeper community,