Week 1: Do Not Worry Big idea: Worry shrinks when we remember God is near and hand Him what we can’t hold. (Philippians 4:5–7) Core scriptures: Matthew 6:25–34; Philippians 4:5–7; 1 Peter 5:7; Psalm 46:1
Short teaching points
Two lies fuel worry: I am alone and it’s all up to me.
The gospel answers: The Lord is near and He cares → we can cast cares and take the next faithful step.
Application questions
Where does worry show up most for you right now, and why?
Which verse today speaks to your situation, and what does it invite you to do?
What would “casting this care” actually look like this week (what to stop/start)?
What signals tell you worry is rising (thoughts, body, habits)?
Who could you invite to support or pray with you?
What single next step honors God even if the outcome stays uncertain?
One-week challenge
When the worry pops up, pause for 30 seconds to acknowledge, “The Lord is near,” and record three moments this week.
Memory verse
“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)
Closing prayer
“Father, You are near. We place these cares in Your hands; give us Your peace and today’s wisdom. Amen.”
Week 2: Enter His Rest Big idea: Rest is not earned; it’s received by trusting Christ’s finished work. We work from rest, not for it. (Hebrews 4:9–11) Core scriptures: Hebrews 4:9–11; Matthew 11:28–30; Psalm 23:1–3; Exodus 20:8–11
Short teaching points
Rest has layers: theological (Jesus finished the work), rhythmic (Sabbath), practical (wise limits).
God’s rest restores identity and reorders our week.
Application questions
What most keeps you from resting—hurry, guilt, fear of missing out, expectations?
What activities truly restore you (not just distract)?
What boundary would protect regular rest in your current season?
How does trusting Christ’s finished work change how you approach unfinished tasks?
What would a small rhythm of “Stop • Rest • Delight • Worship” look like for you?
One-week challenge
Block 2–4 hours for purposeful rest before the next meeting and note one joy you experienced.
Memory verse
“Come to me… and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11:28–29)
Closing prayer
“Jesus, You are our rest. Teach us to stop, trust, and delight in You. Amen.”
Week 3: Take Care of Yourself Big idea: Self-care is stewardship, not selfishness—caring for body, mind, and spirit so we can love God and others well. (3 John 1:2) Core scriptures: 1 Kings 19:5–8; 3 John 1:2; 1 Corinthians 6:19–20; Mark 6:31
Short teaching points
God met Elijah with sleep and food before new assignments.
Jesus said, “Come away… and rest.” Healthy limits honor God.
Application questions
Which area needs attention now: sleep, movement, nourishment, connection, or prayer?
What small boundary would make the biggest difference this week?
Which habit drains you more than it helps (e.g., late screens), and what swap could you try?
How will caring for yourself enable you to serve others better?
What simple check-in could keep you accountable?
One-week challenge
Choose two small rhythms to practice daily for seven days and share what changed.
Memory verse
“I pray that you may be in good health…” (3 John 1:2)
Closing prayer
“Lord, our lives are Yours. Show us wise rhythms that restore us to love You and others. Amen.”
Week 4: Rejoice in the Lord Big idea: Joy is a choice rooted in God, not circumstances. We rejoice in the Lord—who He is and what He’s done. (Philippians 4:4) Core scriptures: Philippians 4:4; Habakkuk 3:17–18; Psalm 103:1–5; 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18
Short teaching points
Gratitude and praise re-train attention toward God’s character and gifts.
Joy can coexist with hardship because its source is Him, not outcomes.
Application questions
Where do you tend to tie joy to results, and how could you re-anchor it in God’s character?
Which truth about God today fuels joy for you?
What everyday cue could remind you to rejoice (commute, mealtime, bedtime)?
How might practicing gratitude change the tone of your home this week?
What is one story from your life where joy and hardship stood together?
One-week challenge
Write a brief “Joy List” on three days this week (5 gifts from today + 1 attribute of God) and share one story next time.
Memory verse
“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.” (Philippians 4:4)
Closing prayer
“God, You are good and Your love endures forever. Teach our hearts to rejoice in You. Amen.”