#mystruggle: Performance Based Acceptance

Have you ever felt like everyone else has it all together and you’re the only one that’s struggling? The reality is, we all struggle from time to time — it’s part of the human experience. But we don’t have to struggle alone. Chances are, if you’re struggling or have struggled with a particular issue, someone else has too. ⁠In this series called “#mystruggle,” some of the TMP staff will share some of the things they have struggled with and how they’ve worked or are working through them.

Here are some questions to help you process this message and apply it to your life:

1. What was your favourite year in school and why? Who was your favourite teacher?

2. What thoughts, images or words come to mind when you hear the word ‘religion’?

3. Read Luke 10:25-28. Is it possible to love God with every part of your being? Is that even possible? If not, is that sinning?

4. Read Luke 10:30-37. What stands out to you in this story? What character(s) do you identify with most and why?

5. Read Philippians 3:4-9. If you struggle with performance based acceptance, do these words bring you any comfort or encouragement? Why or why not?

6. Turn this promise from Jesus into a prayer and commit to praying it everyday this week. Jesus said, “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me — watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” - Matthew 11: 28-30 (MSG)