Reading: Psalm 27:1-14

Devotional: David's singular focus on seeking God's presence is a powerful example for us. In a world full of distractions and competing priorities, David declares, "One thing I have desired of the Lord, that will I seek." This laser-like focus on God's presence isn't just admirable—it's transformative. Today, reflect on your own desires. Are they scattered among many things, or centered on the One who matters most? Consider how you might cultivate a "one track mind" for God's presence in your life. What distractions or lesser desires might you need to set aside? Remember, when we seek God's face above all else, everything else falls into its proper place.

Reading: Genesis 12:1-9

Devotional: Abraham's journey of faith was marked by building altars wherever he went. These weren't just religious rituals—they were declarations of God's presence and lordship in every place Abraham set foot. In our sermon, we're reminded that as believers, we're called to see every space we occupy as an altar. This shifts our perspective dramatically. Your workplace, your home, the grocery store—all can become places of worship and encounter with God. Today, choose one place you'll be and consciously treat it as an altar. How does this change your attitude, your actions, your awareness of God's presence? Let this practice transform your everyday spaces into holy ground.

Reading: Exodus 25:1-9, 40:34-38

Devotional: God gave intricate instructions for the Tabernacle, not because He needed a house, but because He was teaching His people a pattern for His presence. The triune nature we see in the Tabernacle (Outer Court, Holy Place, Holy of Holies) reflects God's own triune nature and our own (body, soul, spirit). This pattern reminds us that approaching God's presence is intentional and transformative. It involves our whole being. Today, consider how you approach God. Are you engaging your body, soul, and spirit in worship? How might you more fully enter God's presence, allowing Him to transform you from the inside out?

Reading: Psalm 63:1-8

Devotional: David's desperation for God's presence is palpable in this psalm. He compares his longing for God to thirsting in a dry and weary land. This isn't duty-driven devotion—it's desire-fueled desperation. In our busy lives, it's easy to approach our relationship with God as another task to check off. But God is inviting us into something deeper. He wants our passionate pursuit, our fervent prayers, our wholehearted worship. Today, take time to kindle your desire for God. What would it look like to approach Him with the desperation of someone dying of thirst? Let that desperation fuel your prayers and guide your day.

Reading: John 15:1-11

Devotional: Jesus uses the metaphor of a vine and branches to illustrate what it means to truly dwell in Him. This isn't occasional visitation—it's constant connection. It's not dabbling in spirituality—it's making our home in Christ. When we dwell in Him, we bear much fruit. Apart from Him, we can do nothing of eternal value. This echoes David's desire to dwell in God's house all the days of his life. Today, examine your connection to Christ. Are you dwelling or dabbling? What might need to change for you to remain more consistently connected to Him? Remember, this connection isn't about perfection, but persistent turning to Jesus throughout your day. Let His life flow through you, transforming you and bearing fruit in every area of your life.

This discussion guide is based on Pastor DJ's sermon "ONE Desire" from the series entitled "Altars Everywhere".  We encourage you to continue the discussion with a few friends in your HOW Church community!

Opening Prayer
Key Scripture: Psalm 27:4 (NKJV) "One thing I have desired of the Lord, That will I seek: That I may dwell in the house of the Lord All the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the Lord, And to inquire in His temple."

Discussion Questions:

1. The sermon emphasizes God as a relational God. How does this perspective impact your approach to worship and your daily relationship with Him?
2. Pastor mentions that "we ALL WORSHIP, however we don't always worship the same thing." Reflect on your life - what competes for your worship besides God?
3. How does the concept of the Tabernacle of David challenge or inspire your understanding of worship?
4. The sermon outlines four main points about rebuilding our desire for God. Which one resonates with you the most and why? a. Desire Driven by Desperation, Not Duty b. Desire that Results in Prayer, Not Performance c. Desire to Dwell, Not Dabble d. Desire to Inquire, Not Inspire
5. What does it mean to you personally to have a "one track mind" focused on God's presence?

Key Takeaways:

1. God desires an intimate, unhindered relationship with us.
2. True worship involves a singular focus on God's presence above all else.
3. The Tabernacle of David serves as a model for continuous, passionate worship.
4. Our desire for God should be driven by desperation, not duty.
5. Dwelling in God's presence requires consistent commitment, like a marriage.

Practical Applications:

1. Evaluate your daily routine. Identify one way you can incorporate more intentional time in God's presence this week.
2. Practice "inquiring" in your worship. Before your next prayer or worship time, take a moment to examine your heart and consider the quality of what you're offering to God.
3. Write a personal "One Thing" declaration, inspired by Psalm 27:4. Share it with the group if you're comfortable.
4. Challenge yourself to pray more fervently this week. Set aside time for "desperate" prayer, holding onto the "horns of the altar" as mentioned in the sermon.
5. Reflect on areas of your life where you might be "dabbling" rather than "dwelling" in your commitment to God. What steps can you take to deepen your commitment?

Closing Prayer: Encourage group members to pray for each other, asking God to cultivate a "one track mind" focused on His presence in each of their lives.