Gateway Church

DON’T PLAY SMALL

March 16, 2025
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MARCH 16

DON’T PLAY SMALL

Work through the following questions and scriptures on your own or get together with your group, spiritual running partners, or family to talk through what you are learning.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

   1. We usually say that humility is living fully in who God made us to be, no more, no less.  In light of this, share a time where you tried to be more or less than you really are.

   2. The weekend’s message challenged us in three areas where we tend to shrink back or play small: Faith, Relationships, and Giving (sacrificially of our time, talent, and treasure). In which of these areas do you find yourself shrinking back during a tough season of life?

   3.  Read 1 Samuel 17:1-18:4.

Make some observations about this passage (What does the text say?):

  • What stands out to you about this passage?
  • What do you notice and what are you curious about?
  • What characteristics of David stand out to you the most?
  • Does anything stand out to you about the armor that Goliath is wearing? (symbolism)

Make some interpretations (What does the passage mean?)

  • What do you learn about God in this passage?
  • In light of this story, how do David’s actions reflect 1 Samuel 13:14?
  • What do you learn about David, the king in waiting, and his role in representing God when no one else will?

Now make some applications (what’s my response?)

  • How are you encouraged, challenged, or convicted by this passage?
  • In what ways does God want you to step out more fully in who He created you to be? Are there areas in your life where you are playing small?

KEY SCRIPTURE

  • 1  Samuel 17:1 – 18:4
  • 1 Samuel 13:14  
  • Genesis 3:14 – 15

PRAYER

Father, as we learn from David, the man after Your own heart, help us face adversity knowing that You are with us. The battle is not ours, and we do not fight for our own gain or strength. Help us to take steps of faith in Your name, without fear of being more or less than what You’ve called us to be. We repent for the times we’ve shrunk back and acknowledge that You are always present with us, even in times of trouble. 

PRACTICE

Engage with Scripture Daily – Read this story at least once more this week.  Take note of what stands out to you after reading it on your own. 

Heart like David – Identify one characteristic that David models that you want to intentionally pursue.