Reading: John 20:11-18

Devotional: Mary Magdalene's encounter with the risen Jesus reminds us that God often reveals Himself in unexpected ways. Like Mary, we might be so focused on our grief or problems that we fail to recognize Jesus standing right before us. Today, reflect on times when God has surprised you with His presence. How can you cultivate a heart that is more open to recognizing God in your daily life? Ask the Lord to help you see Him in both the ordinary and extraordinary moments of your day.

Reading: John 20:24-29

Devotional: Thomas's doubt turned into profound faith when he encountered the risen Christ. His story teaches us that God understands our doubts and is patient with our questions. Rather than condemning Thomas, Jesus met him where he was and provided the evidence he needed. If you're struggling with doubt, bring it honestly before God. Ask Him to strengthen your faith and reveal Himself to you. Remember, "blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." How can you choose to trust God today, even in areas where you lack complete understanding?

Reading: Isaiah 55:8-9

Devotional: Today's sermon reminded us that God's ways are often different from our expectations. We may think we know what we want or need, but God's wisdom surpasses our limited understanding. Reflect on a time when God's plan turned out to be better than what you had envisioned for yourself. How can you surrender your plans to God today, trusting that His ways are higher? Ask for the grace to align your desires with His will, even when it doesn't match your initial expectations.

Reading: Romans 8:11

Devotional: The resurrection of Jesus is not just a historical event, but a living reality that impacts our daily lives. The same power that raised Christ from the dead is at work in us. How does this truth change the way you view your challenges and struggles? Today, identify an area in your life where you need resurrection power – perhaps a relationship, a habit, or a fear. Pray for God's transformative power to bring new life to that situation, trusting in His ability to overcome even death itself.

Reading: Acts 1:8

Devotional: Jesus told His disciples, "you will be my witnesses." As believers who have experienced the reality of the risen Christ, we too are called to be living proof of His resurrection. Reflect on how your life demonstrates the transformative power of Christ. Are there areas where you need to allow His resurrection power to work more fully? Ask God to empower you by His Holy Spirit to be a bold and effective witness, sharing the hope of Christ with those around you through both your words and actions.

We encourage you to continue the discussion with a few friends within your HOW Church Community.  Here is a short discussion guide based on Pastor DJ's sermon "No Cap, I AM Living Proof".

Opening Prayer: Begin with a prayer, asking God to open hearts and minds to His message and guide the discussion.

Key Scripture: John 20:24-29

Discussion Questions:

1. What does the phrase "No cap, I am living proof" mean to you in the context of this sermon and your faith?
2. The sermon mentions that God knows what we want and need better than we do. How have you experienced this in your own life?
3. Why do you think Thomas wasn't present when Jesus first appeared to the disciples? Have you ever felt like you've "missed out" on a spiritual experience?
4. The pastor says, "Open doors are our way of access, open hearts are God's way of access." What does this mean to you, and how can we keep our hearts open to God?
5. Discuss a time when you had to believe without seeing. How did this impact your faith?

Key Takeaways:

1. God answers prayers to give us clarity and change our disposition, not because He needs confirmation.
2. We shouldn't let our conditions keep us from experiencing Jesus's confirmation.
3. God is not obligated to reveal Himself on our terms or in ways we expect.
4. True blessing comes from believing, even when we can't see or understand.
5. Our commitment to God's presence should be greater than our commitment to our own plans.

Practical Applications:

1. This week, practice being present and attentive in your spiritual life. Set aside time each day to be still and listen for God's voice.
2. Reflect on areas in your life where you may be setting conditions for God. Write these down and pray for an open heart to receive God in unexpected ways.
3. Share a testimony with the group next week about a moment when you chose to believe despite challenging circumstances.
4. Create a gratitude journal, focusing on the "good days" that outweigh the bad, as mentioned in the sermon.
5. Reach out to someone who may feel like they've missed out on a spiritual experience and encourage them in their faith journey.

Closing Prayer
Encourage group members to meditate on the verse: "Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed" (John 20:29) throughout the week.