Small Group Discussion Guide
Sermon Series: Wise Up
Sermon Title: Prudence
BREAK THE ICE:
When you hear the word “prudence”, what comes to your mind?
Transition: Let’s look at prudence more closely today . . . as we continue our series WISE UP
Defined – prudence means, “thinking about the __________ before you act.
Transition: Today we are in Proverbs. We will see four types of People . . .
- The simple – do not have enough life experience to know
- The wise – learned how life works, and make good decisions
- The fool – know how life works, but still make bad decisions
- The mocker – a fool that is militant about it
Transition: Today we will focus on the wise and prudent person
DIG IN:
Read Proverbs 22:3, 27:12
In verse 3, what do prudent people do?
How is this outcome different than the inexperienced person?
Transition: Let’s discover three characteristics of the prudent
A. Prudent People See and Act
Read Proverbs 14:15
The sensible (prudent) person watches __________
However, the inexperienced (simple) person believes __________
Read 1 Thessalonians 5:21
What are the commands in this verse?
The Bereans were commended in Acts 17:11b, let’s read
To truly see, prudent people . . .
- Slow down
- Notice patterns
- Go Beyond the surface level
Transition: So, we have seen a prudent person sees and acts, secondly,
B. Prudent People Act Knowledgeably
Let’s Read Proverbs 13:16
What is the truth about the prudent or sensible?
A fool displays __________.
Read 1 Chronicles 12:32
How were the Issacharites described?
Summation: We should see, so we can know, the way we should go!
Transition: Prudent People Act and See, Prudent People Act Knowledgeably, and thirdly,
C. Prudent People Sow Good Seed to the Spirit
Read Galatians 6:7-8
in verse 7, what do we reap as humans?
In verse 8, there are two soils planted . . . they are?
Flesh soil reaps ___________.
Spirit soil reaps ___________.
Truth: If you want a different harvest, plant different seeds
Summation of the Lesson:
Prudence is part of spiritual wisdom. Prudent (spiritual) people see and act.
They act knowledgeably and sow to the Spirit, not the flesh. The result is eternal life!
BRING IT HOME:
What was your one compelling take-a-way today?
Personal Application:
What does prudence look like in your life? Remember to slow down, notice patterns, and go beyond the surface!
Your homework assignment:
Regarding prudence, what do you need to work on this week with God?
Let’s Pray