John 3:16
Introduction
Overflow is all about giving. Our relationship with God exists because He first gave His Son for us so that we could be in a relationship with Him and have eternal life (John 3:16). Just as giving fuels our relationship with Him, it also sustains our relationships with others.
In our relationships, we need to focus on giving by looking out for the interests of others and not just our own (Phil 2:4). In marriage, both spouses need to give 100% rather than 50% each so that there is the potential for overflow. Effective communication in marriage is key, so couples need to speak edifying words to one another (Eph 4:29). In families, parents can lead children to Jesus as they go about their daily activities. The most important thing parents can do for their children is pray for them because the outcome of their lives depends on God, not on the parents.
For those who are single, fulfillment doesn’t come after marriage. It comes from focusing on the purposes of God. In Genesis 2, before Adam met Eve, he had the presence of God, the Word of God, boundaries from God, and a purpose from God, and he was fulfilled. To be prepared for marriage, single adults and teenagers should carve out time with the Lord, develop financial stewardship, find accountability, and practice submission to authority. Submission applies to everyone because every believer is called to submit to the authority of God. When we submit, we position ourselves for overflow, experiencing the fullness of what God has in store.
Getting Started
- This Sunday’s message was delivered on Super Bowl Sunday so let’s pause to talk football. What characteristics do you need to have in order to accomplish your goals?
- Reflecting on the teams you’ve been part of—whether in your family, workplace, school or elsewhere—what made them effective? What lessons did you learn about working and serving together successfully?
Let’s Get Personal
- Would you use the word “overflow” to describe your relationship with God? Why? Why not?
- If you are married, do you and your spouse think of giving 50% or 100%? How does that affect your marriage? If you are single, where do you struggle in giving to the Lord?
- What authority do you struggle to submit to?
Take the Next Step
- In what area or relationship of your life are you currently lacking in giving? How can you find accountability this week to grow in this area?
- What steps do you need to take this week to refocus on God’s purposes for your life?
- Want to dig deeper? Take a look at the following passages: Genesis 2; Psalm 128:3; Ephesians 4:29; Philippians 2:4; 1 Peter 3:9.
Renew Your Mind
“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.”
John 3:16
