In our image-centric culture, it’s often easier to be concerned about how we look than who we really are on the inside. But the further our image of ourselves is away from reality, the more disconnect from real relationships we’ll experience. This week in our You 2.0 series, we’ll explore how the challenging task of being self-reflective can open us back up to the growth and vision God has for our lives – and the huge benefits self-awareness can have in our relationship.
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Discussion Guide
Week 2: A Self-Reflective Person
Begin your time together with prayer
Introduction
Take a few minutes to check in.What was it like practicing curiosity this week?Where did you notice yourself slowing down, listening differently, or responding in a new way?
Connect
Take a few minutes to talk together:
What’s one habit, hobby, or situation that naturally makes you pause and reflect?
When has taking a moment to be honest with yourself helped you grow or make a healthier choice?
Opening
We’re continuing our You 2.0 series, where we’re looking at character traits that help us live and love more like Jesus. Last week we talked about curiosity, and this week we’re turning inward to the practice of self-reflection. In a world that cares a lot about outward image, it’s easy to focus on what people see instead of who we really are. But real transformation happens when we slow down and let God show us what is going on in our hearts. When we take time to reflect with God, we begin to see ourselves more clearly, not through shame, but through his love and grace.
This leads us to our main idea for this week:
We should become well-practiced in self-reflection.
Unpack
Read each set of verses out loud as a group, making observations as you go. Afterward discuss each of the connected questions before moving to the next set of verses:
Read
Psalm 139:23-24Lamentations 3:40
Discuss
What do these passages teach us about inviting God into the process of reflection, even when it feels uncomfortable?
Why do you think these passages acknowledge that reflection can feel vulnerable? What reassurance do they offer?
How can slowing down to reflect with God draw us closer to his view of our lives?
Read:
Romans 12:2-3Philippians 4:8-9Matthew 7:3-5
Discuss:
How do these verses help us see that spiritual growth begins when we let God change the way we think?
What role does humility play in self-reflection?
How does seeing ourselves clearly help us love and understand others better?
What happens to our relationships when we neglect reflection and only focus on others’ faults?
Action Step
Take a moment to be still before God. Ask him to show you one area of your life where he’s inviting you to slow down and reflect.
Consider these questions together:
What keeps you from slowing down for honest reflection?
