City Group Guide: The Kingdom Week 9 – “Kingdom Priorities & Trust”
1. Setting the Kingdom Vision (10 min)
In Matthew 6:19–34, Jesus teaches about where we place our treasure and how we handle worry. He calls His followers to store up treasures in heaven rather than earthly wealth, and to trust God for provision:
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth… But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.”
“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life… Your heavenly Father knows that you need them.”
Kingdom living prioritizes eternal values over temporary gains. Trusting God releases us from anxiety and allows us to focus on His purposes.
Discussion:
Where do you most often feel anxiety about provision or security?
How does focusing on heavenly treasure change your perspective on daily life?
What practical steps could help you trust God more deeply in your decisions?
(Leader note: emphasize that trust is cultivated, not instantaneous.)
2. Guide Overview: Treasure and Trust (2 min)
Jesus contrasts earthly worries with Kingdom focus. Treasures in heaven reflect eternal impact, while earthly wealth and worry are fleeting. Tonight, we’ll explore what it means to align priorities with God’s Kingdom and live with dependence and trust in Him.
3. Kingdom Practice: Reflection and Prayer (30 min)
Step 1: Read the Passage (5 min)
Read Matthew 6:19–34 aloud. Pause and ask: “Which promise or instruction challenges you the most?”
Step 2: Reflect (5 min)
In quiet prayer, ask:
“Where am I overly focused on temporary things?”
“How might God be inviting me to trust Him with my needs and decisions?”
Step 3: Share and Pray (15 min)
Invite each person to share one area where God is calling them to shift priorities or let go of worry. Pray together:
“Father, teach [name] to trust You with their life, needs, and choices. Help them seek first Your Kingdom and rely on Your faithful provision.”
(Leader tip: model vulnerability by sharing your own struggles with worry or misplaced priorities.)
Step 4: Group Reflection (5 min)
Discuss together:
How does living with Kingdom priorities affect daily decisions, relationships, and work?
How can trusting God in tangible ways encourage others in our community?
4. Reflection: Kingdom Trust (5 min)
Re-read Matthew 6:33:
“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
Reflect: Kingdom focus shifts worry into trust. Where might God be inviting you to prioritize Him above earthly concerns this week?
5. Exercise for the Week Ahead (3 min)
Practice: Daily Trust and Priorities
Begin each day by asking: “Lord, what treasure should I pursue today?”
Consciously redirect focus from worry to God’s provision.
Notice moments of trust and gratitude as invitations from God to align your priorities.
Closing Prayer:
“Lord Jesus, You call us to trust You with our lives and seek Your Kingdom first. Teach us to release worry and focus on eternal priorities. May our hearts reflect Your Kingdom in daily decisions, and may our trust in You inspire those around us. Amen.”