1. Take Off The Goggles

Pastor Earl opened with Hophni and Phinehas, two priests who were around the things of God but far from the heart of God. Then he put on VR goggles and stood in a safe box, fully convinced there was a cliff in front of him because of what the goggles were showing him. Sometimes what we focus on can distort reality. We can be around church, serving, and leading while slowly drifting from intimacy with Jesus.

Read 1 Samuel 2:22–26 and Luke 10:38–42

Where in your life have you been more focused on doing for God than being with God, and what is one “goggle” you need to take off this week?

2. Bread Without Meat

Pastor Earl shared the Chick-fil-A story, expecting the full sandwich and finding only bread with no meat inside. He used it as a picture of faith that has activity without intimacy. God never called us to empty routines. He desires a real relationship.

Read 1 Samuel 2:17–18 and Luke 11:1–13

Have there been any areas where your relationship with God has started to feel routine or surface level? What is one practical way you want to pursue intimacy with Jesus this week?

3. Who’s Watching You Follow Jesus?

Pastor Earl reminded us through the story of the Good Samaritan that people are always watching how we follow Jesus. The priest and Levite had the title and appearance of faith, but the Samaritan was the one who stopped, cared, and reflected the heart of God.

Read Luke 10:25–37 and 1 Samuel 2:26

Who has God placed in front of you this week that you can intentionally love and care for like Jesus?