WELCOME ICEBREAKER

What do you remember about preparing to return to school?

WORSHIP

Read Psalm 112

WORD

Winston Churchill - He was considered so slow, his father publicly wondered whether Winston could ever get a reasonable job in life. He was hyperactive and was dead last entering the school at Harrow. He twice failed college entrance exams.

Thomas Edison - One teacher called him "addled" (confused or muddled). His father called him a "dunce." His headmasters claimed that he "would never make a success of anything."

Read Daniel 1:1-9

Background:  Jerusalem has been overtaken by Babylon during the reign of King Nebuchadnezzar. It is said that Daniel was 16 years of age during this time. He continued to serve in a leadership position of government in Babylon for approximately 70 years.

Review qualifications for acceptance.

1. We can feel forced into situations that seem out of our comfort zone, yet our circumstances do not have to ‘defile’ us. How can we determine in our own heart to walk in the light of God’s Word? Read Joshua 1:8
   
   
2. As we step into places of growth, talk about how we can expect increased wisdom and skill in learning. Read 1 Chronicles 4:10 – Prayer of Jabez.
   
   
3. How did Daniel recognize His Source of Strength and commune with Him? Read Daniel 6:10, 11, 21, 22.
   
   
4. Read Matthew 18:19 and Daniel 2:17. Has there been a time in your life where others agreeing with you brought the answer to prayer you were believing for? How does James 4:6 affect this?
   
   
5. Read Daniel 2:20-23. What does this example set by this young teen worshipping God do for you? Share other accounts of worship – whether it was to answer to prayer (Nehemiah) or amidst difficulties (Paul and Silas), or  a reaction to a miracle (disciples in the boat after Jesus calmed the sea)
   
   
1. Worship shifts the battle into the Lords hands – it creates an atmosphere where the enemy cannot move.

PRAYER

1. For the Mongolian team as they finish up their conference and return safely. For the Mongolian believers who will take what they have heard and be doers of the Word.
   
   
2. For the upcoming Financial seminar on Saturday morning with Bob Ricci.