094 | What are you plans to expand?

For the greatest impact, invite a few others to go through this study guide with you.

⌘ Space to Belong | 5-10 minutes

Connect with one another with an ice-breaker.

💡 If you could see God expand one area of your life in 2025, what would it be and why?

⌘ Space to Believe | 10-15 minutes

Read and reflect on the scripture.

Isaiah 54:2 (NIV) “Enlarge the place of your tent, stretch your tent curtains wide, do not hold back; lengthen your cords, strengthen your stakes.

What stands out to you? Is there anything new for you to believe or obey?

Other Scriptures referenced in message: Isaiah 53:2–6; Isaiah 55:1; Matthew 25:14–30; Acts 10:9–16; Ephesians 3:20; John 1:47–50; John 14:12–14; Colossians 2:5–7

⌘ Space to Become | 10-15 minutes

A. Familiarize yourself with the sermon.

Belay’s Theme for 2025 is grounded in Isaiah 54:2: “Enlarge the place of your tent, stretch your tent curtains wide, do not hold back; lengthen your cords, strengthen your stakes.” This call to EXPAND challenges us to examine areas of life where God is calling us to grow—in faith, responsibility, and reliance on Him. This expansion isn’t about physical growth but heart and perspective shifts. Throughout the message, Paul Durbin highlights five specific actions inspired by this verse: Take New Ground, Allow Yourself to Be Stretched, Don’t Be Afraid, Explore Untapped Resources, and Strengthen Your Faith. These actions align with God’s plan to transform us and equip us for greater kingdom impact in the year ahead.

(See the bottom of this note for a full sermon outline).

B. Discuss one or more of the following questions.

What new “ground” is God inviting you to take in 2025?
- Paul emphasized the importance of stepping out in responsibility and purpose rather than avoiding new opportunities.
- Is there a step of obedience or goal you’ve been hesitant to pursue? How can you take action this year to step into that calling?
What might it look like for God to “stretch” you—personally or spiritually?
- Stretching is uncomfortable, but it’s essential for growing muscles, faith, and new habits. Paul pointed out Peter's struggle in Acts 10 to let go of old prejudices.
- Where do you sense God nudging you to step out of your comfort zone? How can you foster a willingness to trust Him as He stretches you?
How do you respond to fear when stepping into the unknown?
- Paul’s message reminded us that fear can hold us back from expansion and growth, but Jesus consistently calls us to “fear not.”
- What fears or hesitations have kept you from moving forward in faith? How can you take small, courageous steps to trust God more deeply in 2025?
What “untapped resources” has God already placed in your life, and how can you better utilize them?
- Paul encouraged us to pray bigger prayers and live in the reality of Ephesians 3:20—God can do far more than we imagine.
- What spiritual gifts, opportunities, or passions might you need to fully activate this year? How can living like “the best is yet to come” shape your faith and actions?
How will you strengthen your faith in the face of challenges or disappointments?
- Paul urged us to “strengthen our stakes” by rooting ourselves deeply in God through spiritual disciplines and gratitude (Colossians 2:5-7).
- What steps can you take to cultivate discipline and resilience in your faith? What practices (like prayer, community, or Bible study) are essential to staying firmly rooted in Christ?