Reading: Genesis 28:10-22

Devotional: Jacob's encounter at Bethel reminds us that God can turn any place into a sacred space. As you read about Jacob's dream and his response, reflect on the times and places where you've encountered God unexpectedly. How did those experiences change you? Today, approach your surroundings with a sense of reverence, recognizing that God's presence can transform any location into holy ground. Practice being aware of God's presence throughout your day, turning ordinary moments into opportunities for worship.

Reading: 2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1

Devotional: Jacob instructed his household to get rid of foreign gods and purify themselves. This act of separation and cleansing was crucial for true worship. Consider what "foreign gods" might be present in your life - things that compete for your devotion or hinder your relationship with God. Spend time in honest self-reflection, asking the Holy Spirit to reveal areas where you need purification. Commit to removing anything that stands between you and wholehearted worship of God. Remember, our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, and we are called to be set apart for God's purposes.

Reading: Ephesians 1:3-14

Devotional: God changed Jacob's name to Israel, signifying a transformation in his identity and destiny. As believers, we too have been given a new identity in Christ. Meditate on the truths in today's reading about who you are in Christ - chosen, adopted, redeemed, and sealed by the Holy Spirit. How does embracing this identity change the way you view yourself and your circumstances? Today, consciously live out your identity as God's beloved child, allowing it to influence your thoughts, decisions, and interactions with others.

Reading: Psalm 105:1-15

Devotional: God reminded Jacob of His promises and past faithfulness. Remembering what God has done is a powerful act of worship that builds our faith for the future. As you read today's psalm, reflect on God's faithfulness in your own life. What "altars" can you build - tangible reminders of God's work in your life? Consider starting a gratitude journal or creating a visual representation of God's faithfulness. Let these reminders fuel your worship and strengthen your trust in God's ongoing work in your life.

Reading: Romans 12:1-2

Devotional: True worship transforms us into living altars - sacred spaces where God's presence dwells and His glory is revealed. Paul urges us to offer our bodies as living sacrifices, which is our true and proper worship. Reflect on what it means to be a "living sacrifice" in your daily life. How can you align your thoughts, attitudes, and actions with God's will? Today, consciously offer each part of your day to God as an act of worship. Whether at work, with family, or in solitude, let your life be a continuous offering of praise to God, transforming every space you occupy into a place of worship.

This discussion guide is based on Pastor DJ's sermon "Sacred Spaces" from the series "Altars Everywhere." We encourage you to continue the discussion with a few friends within your HOW Church Community.

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

Key Scripture: Genesis 35:1-3, 9-13

Main Idea: Worship is not just something you do, but it's the person you become. We are called to be sacred spaces for God's presence.

Discussion Questions:

1. The sermon states, "God doesn't just want your worship from a space, He wants true worship to make you the space." What does this mean to you personally?
2. How do you understand the difference between worshiping in spirit and worshiping in truth? Why are both important?
3. Jacob was told to return to Bethel and build an altar. What "Bethel moments" have you had in your life? How have they shaped your faith journey?
4. The sermon mentions four sacred spaces. Which of these resonated with you the most and why? a) Sacred Space of the Mind b) Sacred Space of Separation c) Sacred Space of Identity d) Sacred Space of Promise
5. How can we practically "get rid of foreign gods" in our lives today? What might these look like in modern context?
6. The sermon emphasizes that our primary calling is to be with God. How can we prioritize this in our busy lives?

Key Takeaways:

1. True worship transforms us into sacred spaces for God.
2. We must remember and return to places where God has spoken to us.
3. Separating ourselves from things that separate us from God is crucial for worship.
4. Our identity in Christ is fundamental to our worship.
5. Authentic worship aligns us with God's promises and destiny for our lives.

Practical Applications:

1. Memory Exercise: Take time this week to recall and journal about a significant "Bethel moment" in your life. How did it impact your faith?
2. Identity Affirmation: Write down your God-given identity based on Scripture. Reflect on this daily.
3. Sacred Space Audit: Evaluate your daily environments (home, work, social spaces). How can you make these more conducive to worship and God's presence?
4. Separation Challenge: Identify one "foreign god" (distraction, habit, or influence) in your life and take steps to remove or reduce its impact this week.
5. Promise Meditation: Choose one of God's promises from Scripture and meditate on it daily, considering how it applies to your life and calling.

Closing Prayer: Close the session by thanking God for His presence and asking for His help in becoming true worshipers in spirit and truth.