Week 4: 2 Kings 1-7

David's sermon focuses on the story of Namaan and the healing of his leprosy (2 Kings 5). He uses this story as an illustration of the dangers of 'achievement addiction.' Where do you see evidence that people in our culture struggle with the addiction of achievement?

David points to 4 symptoms that may indicate 'the achievement addiction' might be present in your life:

1. Anger

2. Critical

3. Demeaning

4. Mockers

If we are honest, all of us can see these symptoms present in our life. With your group, talk about which of the symptoms are observable in you. In what settings do they show up?

In spite of our best efforts, it is the Gospel of Grace that offers the ability to break this addiction to achievement. Read the words of Jesus in Matthew 11:28 (The Message)

"Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly."

Talk with your group about your reaction to this passage. It is incredibly powerful. How is grace the remedy to the achievement addiction (David addresses this link in his message)?

David mentions 3 qualities of personality that indicate and understanding of grace:

1. Thanksgiving

2. Giving

3. Worship

Which of these qualities can you see present in your own life?

Big Idea: increased experience of God's grace erodes the influence of our addiction to achievement.