When You’ve Ditched God

JAN 30 / Sunday – Lk 15:11-24 / Matt 26:31-35, 69-75 / Jn 6:47-69, 21:15-19

Overview: The Chance #2022 message series considers how God repeatedly gives us more than just a second chance when we screw up.

31 / Mon – Ditching God  |  Read Psalm 139:1-12

Why would a person decide to ‘ditch’ God? What would push them to do something so drastic? Do you know anyone who has given up and walked away? Have you yourself ever been tempted to do the same thing? If so, what were the circumstances? What happened to change your mind? What do these verses remind you about God when you feel you can’t come back?

FEB 01 / Tue – He sailed away  |  Read Jonah 1:1-3 / Jonah 3:1-5, 10 / Jonah 4:1-4

Jonah was a prophet who ditched God. You might think Jonah ran away because he was afraid of the Assyrians but Jonah’s own words in 4:1-2 give his reason. God knew what was in Jonah’s heart but He cared enough to pursue anyway and gave him a second chance. Why? God could have easily tapped another prophet to deliver His message. Are you running from something God wants you to do for the same reason Jonah did? God knows your heart but still offers you another chance.

02 / Wed – He walked away  |  Read Luke 15:11-24

Ever hear of the disease called FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out)? It is not always easy to follow God’s ways. It is sometimes very difficult and you don’t always see good happening as a result. Are you tempted to become envious when you see the great things your non-Christians friends have or are able to do. This son didn’t want to ‘miss out’ any longer so he ditched his dad. It was a disaster. Has this ever been your story? What would you tell someone who is in this son’s situation right now?

03 / Thu – He ran for his life  |  Read Mark 14:50 / John 21:15-19

Peter was persistent. He believed wholeheartedly that Jesus was the Messiah. He left all to follow Jesus and promote his ministry wherever they went. Peter thought he could do whatever it took to stick with Jesus till the end. That is, until it came to physical danger. Then he ran. Literally, leaving Jesus to face the cross alone. Could Peter ever be forgiven? Yes and he became a rock-solid leader of Jesus’ new church. Are you a runner? There is hope for you!

04 / Fri – They turned away  |  Read Luke 10:1-3, 17 / John 6:60-69

Although you are most familiar with the 12 men Jesus chose midway through his ministry, there were other disciples who also followed him. Luke mentions that Jesus sent 72 disciples out to preach and heal. What an amazing experience they had! But did they all stay true to him? What caused many of them to later turn away from following him? Why did the 12 stay? Have you nearly turned away at some point because of things you didn’t understand?

05 / Sat – Guilty as charged  |  Read Hebrews 10:15-17 / 1 John 3:20

What happens when you’ve failed? What words come crashing into your mind when you recognize it? Do you wonder if God will give you another chance, especially when you’ve walked away and done things you’re ashamed of? Even when you thought you were alone, you weren’t. Turn around and come back (repent). God understands all things. He forgives completely. He is a master at weaving all things into a good ending. Remember that and share it with others. It is good news!