Dwell: Better in 2026
Dwell: WEek 6 : Better in 2026
This sermon challenges us to make 2026 “better and brighter” by becoming better disciples. Devotion fuels our desire for God, and discipline forms habits that shape our lives. When we dwell with Christ through Scripture, worship, community, and obedience, the new year becomes a year of transformation.
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coming soon
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DWELL — WEEK 6 BLOG
The DWELL series ends by looking forward. Christmas shows us God’s desire to dwell with us—but the New Year invites us to respond with devotion.
2026 won’t be better by accident. It becomes better when we become more devoted and more disciplined disciples.
Deeper Devotion
Devotion is more than emotion or inspiration. It’s a decision. Jesus calls us to love Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. Devotion changes how we prioritize, sacrifice, and follow.
Devotion says:
“I’m all in—even when it costs.”Dedicated Disciplines
If devotion is the heart of discipleship, discipline is the habit of it.
Discipline of the mind — studying Scripture, meditating on truth, renewing our thinking.
Discipline of the soul — worship, prayer, community, gathering weekly.
Discipline of strength — resisting sin, pursuing holiness, training spiritually.Small disciplines create big change. Habits form hearts.
A Better Disciple Makes a Better Year
A brighter 2026 isn’t built on resolutions—it’s built on discipleship. When you dwell with Christ daily, you don’t just change your year… you change your life.
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Small Group Curriculum – DWELL
Week 5: Better & Brighter (Prequel)
Main Scripture: Mark 12:30 (NLT)
Big Idea: A better and brighter year begins with deeper devotion and stronger discipline.1. Connect (Icebreaker)
Fun: What’s one New Year’s resolution or goal you’ve made in the past—and how long did it last?
Personal: What’s an area of your life that needs more devotion or discipline right now?
Transition: Most people want the new year to be “better,” but real change doesn’t come from a resolution—it comes from devotion. Jesus said the most important command is to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength.
2. Discover (Scripture & Discussion)
Read: Mark 12:30; Joshua 1:8; Philippians 3:12–14 (NLT).
Discussion Questions
What does it practically mean to love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength?
How does devotion differ from just “good intentions” or temporary resolutions?
What spiritual disciplines (habits) help you grow closer to God and stay consistent in your faith?
Why do you think God links love and obedience together in discipleship?
According to Philippians 3:12–14, how do we stay motivated when following Jesus feels hard?
Dig Deeper Scripture: 1 Corinthians 9:25–27.
How does Paul’s comparison to athletic training challenge your approach to spiritual discipline?
What “training habits” can you put into practice this week to strengthen your faith?
3. Respond (Application & Prayer)
Personal Application
Which part of Mark 12:30 (heart, soul, mind, or strength) do you need to grow in most this year?
What one daily devotion and one weekly discipline could help you draw closer to God in 2026?
Group Prayer Prompt
Pray for deeper love and devotion to God in every area of life.
Ask God to help the group stay consistent in spiritual disciplines and to shine brighter for Christ this year.
Challenge for the Week
Memory Verse: Mark 12:30 (NLT)
Next Step: Practice one new spiritual habit this week—whether prayer, Scripture reading, or serving—and thank God daily for the chance to grow in devotion and discipline.
⏱️ Designed for 45–60 minutes
Connect: 10–15 min
Discover: 25–30 min
Respond: 10–15 min
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CONWAY
AYNOR
SOUTH STRAND