LEADERSHIP THOUGHT:
As we enter this new year, it is essential for us to focus on Jesus, the importance of the cross, and our mission as His disciples. The cross is fundamental to everything we do as followers and ministers of Christ. To remain faithful to the call that God has given us as believers, we must continue to center our lives on Christ.
"Then he said to them all: 'Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.'" (Luke 9:23 NIV)
Denying oneself means letting go of personal ambitions, preferences, and comforts that conflict with God’s will. It’s about prioritizing God’s desires over our own. Taking up our cross isn’t a one-time event. It’s a daily choice to live sacrificially, embracing God’s will, even when it’s difficult. This calls us to examine areas in our lives where self-centeredness may hinder our walk with Christ.
The Cross Symbolizes:
Suffering: Being willing to endure hardships for the sake of Christ.
Sacrifice: Putting others and God’s Kingdom above personal gain.
Surrender: Faithfully obeying God’s call, regardless of the cost.
As we focus on the cross and its profound significance, let us remember that our strength and direction come from Christ alone. By keeping Jesus at the center of our lives and ministry, we can faithfully fulfill the mission He has set before us.
DISSCUSSION QUESTIONS:
What does “denying yourself” look like practically in your daily life? Are there comforts, habits, or ambitions you sense God calling you to surrender in 2025?
What does your personal “cross” look like right now? What challenges, sacrifices, or steps of faith do you feel God is asking you to embrace daily? Are there things you need to let go of this year? Are there things He is calling you to do this year? Explain.
What are you trusting God for this year as we focus on Jesus and His mission? Is there a specific word or theme that summarizes what you're believing God for in 2025?
PRAYER:
Pray for strength and perseverance to take up our cross daily, embracing the challenges, sacrifices, and steps of faith required to follow Jesus faithfully.
Pray for clarity and focus as we begin the year centered on Jesus and the cross.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
COACHES TRAINING
Aloha Pearlside Coaches! Save the dates have been sent out via for the All Coaches Training happening on Saturday, February 1, 2025. Please RSVP by Friday, January 24. Excited for this time of equipping with you all!
MEN’S HUDDLE
Calling all men! Join us on Saturday, February 8, 2025 for our first "Men’s Huddle," featuring former Super Bowl Champion, Pastor Tim Johnson. Let’s encourage all our men to sign up and not miss this opportunity to elevate their faith and take on the mantal God has called them to hold as leaders in our communities and homes! To register, please visit pearlside.org/menshuddle.com.
UPCOMING CLASSES:
Freedom Weekend:
Main Campus Women’s Freedom Weekend, Saturday, January 25, from 9:00 am - 3:30 pm in the Hub at Main Campus
Main Campus Men’s Freedom Weekend, Saturday, January 25, from 9:00 am - 2:30 pm in Classroom 1 at Main Campus
Kahala Men’s Freedom Weekend, Saturday, March 1, from 9:00 am - 2:30 pm in the Hub at Main Campus