Our focus this month is on character. Who are you when no one is looking? In his book Louder than Words, Andy Stanley defines character like this: "Character is the will to do what is right, as defined by God, regardless of personal cost." 

Leader Guide

• This book/topic is going to stir up a lot of questions. You may want to break up the book discussion over a couple of weeks. Assigning certain chapters to discuss each week.

• Don't feel like you have to have all the answers. It is okay to say you don't know. Use those opportunities to have the group do some research and discuss the following week. Some questions need to be pondered.

• Decision-Making Handout - Select some of the following questions and use the "6 Guiding Questions" from the handouts to discuss. Some of these are spicy and will hopefully get the group thinking about how they make decisions.

  • Is gambling a sin?

  • Is drinking alcohol a sin?

  • Can a Christian watch R-rated movies?

  • Language - when is it a sin to say certain words? (It is offensive to my wife when I say, "that sucks")

  • Is it ever a sin to eat certain foods? (Unhealthy, too much)

  • What kind of things have power over you? (TV, social media, food)

  • Is it a sin to wear certain clothes? (Too short, revealing, too tight, offensive logo)

Get Strong Bible Reading Plan – Talking Points

• 1 Cor 9:24-26 - What does it mean to run in such a way as to win the prize? What is the prize?

• Look at 1 Cor 13 - In what ways do you need to improve the way you love and with who?

• Discuss the meaning and application of 2 Corinthians 12:9-10

• James 2 says faith with deeds is useless. Do you agree or disagree? Explain?

• Two great truths about marriage - James 1:19 & James 4:1-3

• Discuss Hebrews 4:12-13. In what ways is this true?

Book Recommendations: Character / Christian Living

1) The Pursuit of Holiness by Jerry Bridges. This book is a Christian classic. It will both stretch you and bless you at the same time.

2) Louder than Words by Andy Stanley. This is a book about uncompromised living. It is about choosing to be a man or woman of integrity every day, a person whose actions speak louder than words.

3) Firmly Planted by Robby Gallaty. Robby Gallaty shares a roadmap for spiritual maturity in biblical, practical, and simple terms. The book addresses topics such as Assurance, Identity, and a Victory Plan over our battle with sin.