Key Takeaways:

1. We’re DELICATE: We are delicate, not dumb, and need God’s protection and care. Without God’s guidance, we are directionless and prone to wandering.
2. We’re DIRECTIONLESS: We are easily deceived and need to rely on hearing God’s voice.
3. We’re DECEIVED: Only a relationship with Jesus Christ can bring true satisfaction and purpose.

Discussion Questions:

1. We mentioned that each of us is “delicate.” How have you experienced your own fragility or vulnerability in life? How does recognizing this change your perspective on needing God?
2. In what areas of your life do you feel directionless? How might surrendering those areas to God as your Shepherd change things?
3. The sermon mentioned how easily we can be deceived. Can you share an example of a time you were deceived or misled in your spiritual journey? How did you realize it, and what did you learn?
4. How does the image of Jesus as a Shepherd who leaves the 99 to find the one lost sheep impact your understanding of God’s love for you?
5. We used the example of Chris the sheep to illustrate our need for a Shepherd. In what ways do you relate to Chris – carrying burdens you can’t remove on your own?
6. How does understanding yourself as a “sheep” in need of a Shepherd challenge or comfort you in your faith journey?

Practical Applications:

1. Daily Shepherd Check-in: Spend 5 minutes each day this week consciously “checking in” with Jesus as your Shepherd. Ask for His guidance and direction.
2. Burden Identification: Write down 3 “burdens” or areas of struggle in your life that you need help with. Pray over these, asking Jesus to “shear” them from you.
3. Voice Recognition: Practice listening for God’s voice this week. Keep a journal of moments when you feel God is speaking to or guiding you.
4. Invitation to the Shepherd: If anyone in the Group hasn’t accepted Jesus as their Shepherd, encourage them to talk with a leader about taking that step.