The Beginning

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The Beginning Week 1 June 8/9, 2013 BOB MERRITT ///////////////////////////////////

INTRODUCTION The beginning–what a great place to start! In fact, a perfectlycreated place to start. God cares about us and created our world exactly how we need it to be. He also created us is His image, both male and female. We learn about God’s expert works and love for his people in the book of Genesis. This week, we look at God’s goodness in the world and the importance that he places on healthy relationships.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. As a child, what do you remember being fascinated by or in awe of in nature? Are you still in awe of it now? Is it something different now? If so, what? 2. Pastor Bob describes Genesis as a book showing God as a creator and relator. How do you view God as a creator in your life? How has God revealed himself as a relator in your life? 3. Read Psalm 33:6 and Genesis 1:1-31. How has God spoken to you through the words in the Bible? How has He shown His faithfulness and goodness? What have you seen in your life that is a direct result of His love and perfect design? Bob shared a story about how God spoke to him as he looked out at Lake Superior. Have you experienced something similar? 4. What challenges in life have you had to face alone? Read Genesis 2:18. Describe a time in your life when you needed to rely fully on someone else. How did that make you feel? How have others needed to completely rely on you? Is that easy or hard for you? Explain. 5. Read Genesis 1:27. How have you typically thought of God’s image? Share a relationship you have observed between a husband and wife that shows the design of helpers God intended. Do you have someone in your life to stop you from going out in public looking like a popsicle, as Bob described?

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THINK ABOUT IT Bob said, “Christians should be the most joyful people on Earth for all the good God’s created.” How’s your joy today? What do you need to turn over to Him to help you focus on His faithfulness? Recall some things for which you are thankful, including items that God specifically created.

COMMIT TO MEMORY: Your unfailing love, O Lord, is as vast as the heavens; your faithfulness reaches beyond the clouds. Psalm 36:5