Locations & Times

Are you stuck in the cycle of trying to earn God’s grace? Or maybe you’ve swung the other way, putting in no effort at all? What if grace wasn’t opposed to effort—just earning? In this message, Ben Foote unpacks how he’s learning (slowly) to rest in God’s love while putting in real effort to follow Jesus. He shares two game-changing habits that have made his relationship with God more real than ever—no more grind, just grace. If you’re tired of striving or coasting, this one’s for you.

Set List

Message Discussion Questions:

Grace is opposed to Earning, not Effort

Ben Foote
Jan 5th, 2025

// Bible References: Eph 2:8-9, John 14:6; 1 John 3:1; Gal 3:26-29; Rom 6:1-2; Matt 23:25-26; Ex 28:29; 1 Thess 5:16-18

// Community Question: What is one thing this past year has taught you?

// Discussion Questions

1. Ben shared a powerful statement from his daughter's journal “Jesus will never stop loving me”. Why is it important to believe that 'Jesus will never stop loving us'? How does this truth help us in our daily lives? How can remembering that Jesus loves you unconditionally impact the way you view your mistakes or failures?
2. Ben talked about how we often try to earn God's grace through our actions. What does it mean that 'grace is opposed to earning'? Can you explain how this concept affects our relationships with God? In what ways do you find yourself trying to earn God's love or grace? How can recognizing that it’s a gift change your approach to faith?
3. Ben explained that while we can’t earn grace, we have the responsibility as grace is not opposed to effort. How can we put effort into our relationship with Jesus without falling into the trap of legalism? What practical steps can you take this week to put effort into your relationship with God without feeling like it’s a chore?
4. Ben discussed the importance of reading the Bible slowly and seeking understanding rather than checking off a list, which allowed him to discover deeper insights. Why do you think this approach is beneficial? How might you adjust your own Bible reading habits to focus more on understanding and less on quantity?
5. Ben used the analogy of family rules to explain that the guidelines God provides are for our benefit, not to earn His love. How can the idea of family rules that guide us in our relationship with God? What 'house rules' have you encountered in your faith journey that have helped you live in a way that honors God? How can you apply them more intentionally?

// Challenge: In the sermon Ben described three essential prayers, Help, Thanks, and Wow. What areas in your life do you need help with, are thankful for, and are in awe of God’s goodness? Share them with the group. How can you incorporate these essential prayers into your life this week?