Message: YOUR PATH...Seeing what's on the horizon
Week of May 24, 2009

Thematic Focus
If you want to move in a certain direction, you have to choose the right path. Doing so requires seeing what's on the horizon.

Main Points
There are two types of people:
·  Those who are prudent or wise.
·  Those who are simple or naive.

Both face challenges, but respond differently:

Wise person
·  Connects today with tomorrow.
·  Sees down the road.
·  Draws on past experience and others.

Naive person
·  Acts as if life is disconnected.
·  Just keeps going.
·  Masters self-deception.

Summary Points
When you see trouble coming, take action.
Remember direction determines destination.

Scriptural Lens:
· Proverbs 2:1-9; Proverbs 27:12

Pursuing clarity
Use the following structure to guide your discussion:

Opening Prayer
Take a moment to recognize Christ’s presence with you.

Opening Reflection
Many people end up choosing paths that do not lead in the direction they want to go. Why do you think this is the case?

Scriptural Focus
Take time to read the suggested Scriptures.

Group Discussion
Use these questions to begin your discussion:

1. How can (or has) choosing the wrong path cost you or someone you know years?
2. Put into your own words the difference between a "prudent" and a "simple" person.
3. How can you tell ahead of time if a particular path will lead you to a destination you desire? What process might you use?
4. What does it mean to act as if the future is now?
5. What are the dangers of acting as if tomorrow will never come?
6. How can wisdom sometimes appear to be foolish?
7. Identify some ways taking action could create "embarrassment" in the short term and "relief" in the long term.