Are You Running From What God Is Calling You To Do?
A walk through Jonah chapter one that challenges us to stop running from God's call and start surrendering to it.

Paul Durbin • Lead Pastor
August 2, 2026

7 Minute Read

OVERVIEW 👀

Pastor Paul Durbin opens a new series in the book of Jonah, walking us through chapter one and the story of a prophet who knew exactly what God wanted him to do—and ran the other way. Paul reminds us that God still invites regular, rebellion-prone people like us to partner with Him in His work, and that saying yes always beats running away. Through Jonah's storm, the sailors' fear, and Peter's contrasting obedience in Acts, we're challenged to stop running, surrender sooner, and trust that God's mercy keeps offering us another chance to say yes.

174 | Are You Running From What God Is Calling You To Do?

Pastor Paul Durbin opens a new series in the book of Jonah, walking us through chapter one and the story of a prophet who knew exactly what God wanted him to do—and ran the other way. Paul reminds us that God still invites regular, rebellion-prone people like us to partner with Him in His work, and that saying yes always beats running away. Through Jonah's storm, the sailors' fear, and Peter's contrasting obedience in Acts, we're challenged to stop running, surrender sooner, and trust that God's mercy keeps offering us another chance to say yes.

Paul Durbin • Last Sunday

TIPS 📌

For the greatest impact, invite a few others to go through this study guide with you.
You don't need to do every section and question—use what fits your group or season.
Let the Spirit highlight where to slow down and engage.

ICEBREAKER(S) 🧊

If you had to flee to a random city tomorrow like Jonah fled to Tarshish, where would you pick and why?

BIBLE PASSAGE(S) 📖

Jonah 1:1-16

1 The word of the Lord came to Jonah son of Amittai: 2 "Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it, because its wickedness has come up before me." 3 But Jonah ran away from the Lord and headed for Tarshish. He went down to Joppa, where he found a ship bound for that port. After paying the fare, he went aboard and sailed for Tarshish to flee from the Lord. 4 Then the Lord sent a great wind on the sea, and such a violent storm arose that the ship threatened to break up. 5 All the sailors were afraid and each cried out to his own god. And they threw the cargo into the sea to lighten the ship. But Jonah had gone below deck, where he lay down and fell into a deep sleep. 6 The captain went to him and said, "How can you sleep? Get up and call on your god! Maybe he will take notice of us so that we will not perish." 7 Then the sailors said to each other, "Come, let us cast lots to find out who is responsible for this calamity." They cast lots and the lot fell on Jonah. 8 So they asked him, "Tell us, who is responsible for making all this trouble for us? What kind of work do you do? Where do you come from? What is your country? From what people are you?" 9 He answered, "I am a Hebrew and I worship the Lord, the God of heaven, who made the sea and the dry land." 10 This terrified them and they asked, "What have you done?" (They knew he was running away from the Lord, because he had already told them so.) 11 The sea was getting rougher and rougher. So they asked him, "What should we do to you to make the sea calm down for us?" 12 "Pick me up and throw me into the sea," he replied, "and it will become calm. I know that it is my fault that this great storm has come upon you." 13 Instead, the men did their best to row back to land. But they could not, for the sea grew even wilder than before. 14 Then they cried out to the Lord, "Please, Lord, do not let us die for taking this man's life. Do not hold us accountable for killing an innocent man, for you, Lord, have done as you pleased." 15 Then they took Jonah and threw him overboard, and the raging sea grew calm. 16 At this the men greatly feared the Lord, and they offered a sacrifice to the Lord and made vows to him.

OBSERVATION 🔎

  1. What does the passage tell us about how Jonah physically responds to God's word—where he goes, what he does, and how he acts on the ship?
  2. Notice the sailors in this chapter. How do they change from verse 5 to verse 16, and what causes the change?
  3. What details does the text repeat or emphasize about Jonah "running from the Lord" and about the storm?

APPLICATION 👋

  1. Where in your life right now do you sense God calling you to something you'd rather not do?
    Paul talked about how we often know the thing we're supposed to do but resist it. This question is a chance to get honest about where you feel that pull today.
  2. What's your version of "buying a ticket to Tarshish"—a choice you've made (or are making) to put distance between you and God's call?
    Sometimes we don't outright refuse God; we just steer our life in the opposite direction. Think about jobs, relationships, habits, or distractions.
  3. Have you ever experienced a season where "the path of running got rougher"? What did that look like?
    Paul pointed out that Jonah's escape seemed smooth at first, but eventually his world went haywire. Reflect on how God has used discomfort to get your attention.
  4. When has fear of what people might think kept you from being honest about your rebellion or struggle?
    Paul talked about how pride and fear can keep us stuck. Consider whether there's something you've been hiding that God is inviting you to bring into the light.
  5. Where in your life have you settled for "empty worship"—saying the right words while your heart is somewhere else?
    Jonah told the sailors he worshiped the Lord, but his actions said otherwise. This is a chance to check the gap between what you say and how you're living.
  6. Who around you might be affected by your obedience—or your rebellion—right now?
    Paul reminded us that foolish decisions don't just affect the decider. Think about your family, friends, coworkers, and Belay community.
  7. What "preferred destiny" do you sense God has for you, and what would it look like to say yes to it this week?
    Paul used the phrase "preferred destiny" to describe the life God is inviting you into. Dream a little—what might God do if you fully surrendered?

LIVE ON BELAY 🏔️

  • Identify one area where you've been running from God and confess it out loud to a trusted friend or your house church this week.
  • Reach out to someone God has put on your heart—a text, a call, a coffee—and speak the word of encouragement, apology, or prayer you've been putting off.
  • Ask a Belay'er you trust, "Where do you see me resisting God right now?" and actually listen to their answer without defending yourself.
  • Look for your own "Nineveh" this week—a person or place that's outside your comfort zone—and take one small step toward loving them well.
  • Invite someone who feels far from God to share a meal, a hike, or a Sunday gathering with you, and be ready to share your own story of saying yes.

PRAYER 🙏

  • Ask God to reveal any place in your life where you're running from Him, and give you courage to turn around.
  • Pray for the people your obedience (or disobedience) is affecting—your family, friends, and community—and ask God to bless them through your yes.
  • Ask the Holy Spirit to help you say yes sooner, before the storm gets louder.
  • Pray for the "Ninevehs" in your life—people or places that need the good news—and ask God to send you.
  • Thank God for His mercy that keeps offering another chance, and ask Him to help you receive it today.

WORSHIP 🙌


OUTLINE 📝

Main Idea: God keeps inviting ordinary, rebellion-prone people to partner with Him—and the wisest thing we can do is stop running and say yes.

God Invites Regular People Into His Work
  • The invitation goes back to the garden (Genesis 1:28)
  • Isaiah's "Here am I. Send me." (Isaiah 6:8)
  • Jesus extends the same call (Matthew 28:18-19)
Running From God Never Really Works
  • Jonah heads to Tarshish and Joppa
  • Contrast with Paul (from Tarsus) and Peter (sent to Joppa)
  • Saying yes opens doors we couldn't imagine (Acts 11:18)
Rebellion Puts Us on a Fool's Errand
  • Empty worship without obedience
  • Foolish choices pile on foolish choices
  • Fear and pride keep us stuck
Three Takeaways From Jonah 1
  1. Foolish decisions don't just affect the decider
  2. The path of running away doesn't get any smoother (Proverbs 14:12; 16:25)
  3. Even in our stubbornness, God keeps giving invitations to surrender
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August 2, 2026 • 7 Minute Read
Are You Running From What God Is Calling You To Do?
OVERVIEW 👀 Pastor Paul Durbin opens a new series in the book of Jonah, walking us through chapter one and the story of a prophet who knew exactly what God wanted him to do—and ran the other way. Paul reminds us that God still invites regular, rebellion-prone people like us to partner with Him in His work, and that saying yes always beats running away. Through Jonah's storm, the sailors' fear, and Peter's contrasting obedience in Acts, we're challenged to stop running, surrender sooner, and trust that God's mercy keeps offering us another chance to say yes.running TIPS 📌 For the greatest impact, invite a few others to go through this study guide with you. You don't need to do every section and question—use what fits your group or season. Let the Spirit highlight where to slow down and engage. ICEBREAKER(S) 🧊 If you had to flee to a random city tomorrow like Jonah fled to Tarshish, where would you pick and why? BIBLE PASSAGE(S) 📖 Jonah 1:1-16 1 The word of the Lord came to Jonah son of Amittai: 2 "Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it, because its wickedness has come up before me." 3 But Jonah ran away from the Lord and headed for Tarshish. He went down to Joppa, where he found a ship bound for that port. After paying the fare, he went aboard and sailed for Tarshish to flee from the Lord. 4 Then the Lord sent a great wind on the sea, and such a violent storm arose that the ship threatened to break up. 5 All the sailors were afraid and each cried out to his own god. And they threw the cargo into the sea to lighten the ship. But Jonah had gone below deck, where he lay down and fell into a deep sleep. 6 The captain went to him and said, "How can you sleep? Get up and call on your god! Maybe he will take notice of us so that we will not perish." 7 Then the sailors said to each other, "Come, let us cast lots to find out who is responsible for this calamity." They cast lots and the lot fell on Jonah. 8 So they asked him, "Tell us, who is responsible for making all this trouble for us? What kind of work do you do? Where do you come from? What is your country? From what people are you?" 9 He answered, "I am a Hebrew and I worship the Lord, the God of heaven, who made the sea and the dry land." 10 This terrified them and they asked, "What have you done?" (They knew he was running away from the Lord, because he had already told them so.) 11 The sea was getting rougher and rougher. So they asked him, "What should we do to you to make the sea calm down for us?" 12 "Pick me up and throw me into the sea," he replied, "and it will become calm. I know that it is my fault that this great storm has come upon you." 13 Instead, the men did their best to row back to land. But they could not, for the sea grew even wilder than before. 14 Then they cried out to the Lord, "Please, Lord, do not let us die for taking this man's life. Do not hold us accountable for killing an innocent man, for you, Lord, have done as you pleased." 15 Then they took Jonah and threw him overboard, and the raging sea grew calm. 16 At this the men greatly feared the Lord, and they offered a sacrifice to the Lord and made vows to him. OBSERVATION 🔎 What does the passage tell us about how Jonah physically responds to God's word—where he goes, what he does, and how he acts on the ship? Notice the sailors in this chapter. How do they change from verse 5 to verse 16, and what causes the change? What details does the text repeat or emphasize about Jonah "running from the Lord" and about the storm? APPLICATION 👋 Where in your life right now do you sense God calling you to something you'd rather not do? Paul talked about how we often know the thing we're supposed to do but resist it. This question is a chance to get honest about where you feel that pull today. What's your version of "buying a ticket to Tarshish"—a choice you've made (or are making) to put distance between you and God's call? Sometimes we don't outright refuse God; we just steer our life in the opposite direction. Think about jobs, relationships, habits, or distractions. Have you ever experienced a season where "the path of running got rougher"? What did that look like? Paul pointed out that Jonah's escape seemed smooth at first, but eventually his world went haywire. Reflect on how God has used discomfort to get your attention. When has fear of what people might think kept you from being honest about your rebellion or struggle? Paul talked about how pride and fear can keep us stuck. Consider whether there's something you've been hiding that God is inviting you to bring into the light. Where in your life have you settled for "empty worship"—saying the right words while your heart is somewhere else? Jonah told the sailors he worshiped the Lord, but his actions said otherwise. This is a chance to check the gap between what you say and how you're living. Who around you might be affected by your obedience—or your rebellion—right now? Paul reminded us that foolish decisions don't just affect the decider. Think about your family, friends, coworkers, and Belay community. What "preferred destiny" do you sense God has for you, and what would it look like to say yes to it this week? Paul used the phrase "preferred destiny" to describe the life God is inviting you into. Dream a little—what might God do if you fully surrendered? LIVE ON BELAY 🏔️ Identify one area where you've been running from God and confess it out loud to a trusted friend or your house church this week. Reach out to someone God has put on your heart—a text, a call, a coffee—and speak the word of encouragement, apology, or prayer you've been putting off. Ask a Belay'er you trust, "Where do you see me resisting God right now?" and actually listen to their answer without defending yourself. Look for your own "Nineveh" this week—a person or place that's outside your comfort zone—and take one small step toward loving them well. Invite someone who feels far from God to share a meal, a hike, or a Sunday gathering with you, and be ready to share your own story of saying yes. PRAYER 🙏 Ask God to reveal any place in your life where you're running from Him, and give you courage to turn around. Pray for the people your obedience (or disobedience) is affecting—your family, friends, and community—and ask God to bless them through your yes. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you say yes sooner, before the storm gets louder. Pray for the "Ninevehs" in your life—people or places that need the good news—and ask God to send you. Thank God for His mercy that keeps offering another chance, and ask Him to help you receive it today. WORSHIP 🙌 OUTLINE 📝 Main Idea: God keeps inviting ordinary, rebellion-prone people to partner with Him—and the wisest thing we can do is stop running and say yes. God Invites Regular People Into His Work The invitation goes back to the garden (Genesis 1:28) Isaiah's "Here am I. Send me." (Isaiah 6:8) Jesus extends the same call (Matthew 28:18-19) Running From God Never Really Works Jonah heads to Tarshish and Joppa Contrast with Paul (from Tarsus) and Peter (sent to Joppa) Saying yes opens doors we couldn't imagine (Acts 11:18) Rebellion Puts Us on a Fool's Errand Empty worship without obedience Foolish choices pile on foolish choices Fear and pride keep us stuck Three Takeaways From Jonah 1 Foolish decisions don't just affect the decider The path of running away doesn't get any smoother (Proverbs 14:12; 16:25) Even in our stubbornness, God keeps giving invitations to surrender

Paul Durbin

Lead Pastor

July 26, 2026 • 7 Minute Read
Where Will Your Name Appear in the Credits?
OVERVIEW 👀 In this closing message from Colossians, Pastor Paul Durbin walks Belay'ers through the final verses of Paul's letter—the part most of us skip like movie credits. But hidden in those names are seven roles that make a church thrive: testimony teller, unity bringer, relationship restorer, prayer warrior, faithful healer, helpful host, and mission completer. Paul invites us to picture the credits rolling on our own lives and asks the honest question: which of these roles will our name appear beside?credits TIPS 📌 For the greatest impact, invite a few others to go through this study guide with you. You don't need to do every section and question—use what fits your group or season. Let the Spirit highlight where to slow down and engage. ICEBREAKER(S) 🧊 Do you stay for the credits at the movies, or are you out the door the second the screen goes dark? Why? BIBLE PASSAGE(S) 📖 Colossians 4:7-18 7 Tychicus will tell you all the news about me. He is a dear brother, a faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord. 8 I am sending him to you for the express purpose that you may know about our circumstances and that he may encourage your hearts. 9 He is coming with Onesimus, our faithful and dear brother, who is one of you. They will tell you everything that is happening here. 10 My fellow prisoner Aristarchus sends you his greetings, as does Mark, the cousin of Barnabas. (You have received instructions about him; if he comes to you, welcome him.) 11 Jesus, who is called Justus, also sends greetings. These are the only Jews among my co-workers for the kingdom of God, and they have proved a comfort to me. 12 Epaphras, who is one of you and a servant of Christ Jesus, sends greetings. He is always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured. 13 I vouch for him that he is working hard for you and for those at Laodicea and Hierapolis. 14 Our dear friend Luke, the doctor, and Demas send greetings. 15 Give my greetings to the brothers and sisters at Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church in her house. 16 After this letter has been read to you, see that it is also read in the church of the Laodiceans and that you in turn read the letter from Laodicea. 17 Tell Archippus: "See to it that you complete the ministry you have received in the Lord." 18 I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you. OBSERVATION 🔎 Paul lists a lot of names here. What descriptive words or phrases does he attach to each person, and what stands out about the way he talks about them? What specific actions or contributions do these people make to Paul's ministry, and how do those contributions differ from one person to the next? In verse 17, Paul sends a direct word to Archippus. What does the wording of that message suggest about Archippus' situation, and why might Paul say it publicly through this letter? APPLICATION 👋 Where in your everyday conversations are you most tempted to slide from testimony into gossip, and what would it look like to catch yourself and turn the corner? This is less about big sins and more about the small tone shifts in our talk about coworkers, family, or other Belay'ers. Onesimus took a huge risk to walk back into a broken relationship. Is there a relationship in your life where you've been "running by geography"—hoping distance will fix it Sometimes we change jobs, churches, or friend groups instead of stepping into the harder work of repair. Who in your life needs someone willing to do a little sleuthing and take initiative to restore a broken relationship? Could that person be you? Restoration rarely happens by accident. It usually takes one person willing to make the first awkward move. When was the last time you said "I'll pray for you" and then didn't? What would change if you swapped that phrase for "Can I pray for you right now?" Praying on the spot feels vulnerable at first, but it turns a polite line into a real moment. Luke stayed. Demas left. In the current season of your life, which one are you more like, and why? Faithfulness is usually tested in the unglamorous middle stretch, not the exciting beginning. What space has God given you—a home, an apartment, a backyard, a lunch table at work—that could become a place where ministry happens? Helpful hosts don't need big houses. They just need open doors and a willingness to make room. Is there a "ministry you have received" that you've set down—a call, a burden, a project, a dream? What would it look like to pick it back up this week? God rarely reassigns something He's clearly put on your heart. Sometimes He's just waiting for you to start again. LIVE ON BELAY 🏔️ Text or call three people this week and share a specific "gold" you see in them—something good God is doing in or through their life. Identify one broken or distant relationship and take one small step toward restoration: a text, a call, a Culver's meet-up. Retire the phrase "I'll pray for you" for the next 30 days and replace it with "Can I pray for you right now?" Open your home (or your table, or your backyard) once this month for a meal, a study, or just hanging out with someone outside your usual circle. Write down the "ministry" or assignment you sense God has given you, and take one concrete step toward it this week—even if it's small. PRAYER 🙏 Ask God to help you become a testimony teller—someone whose words consistently build up rather than tear down. Pray for a specific broken relationship in your life, and ask God to show you your part in the restoration. Ask the Spirit to make you a real prayer warrior, not just someone who says the words. Pray for the Belay'ers around you—that our church would be full of faithful healers, not hurtful deserters. Ask God to remind you of any ministry you've set down, and to give you courage to pick it back up. WORSHIP 🙌 OUTLINE 📝 Main Idea: The final verses of Colossians read like movie credits—and hidden in those names are seven roles that help a church thrive. Testimony Tellers (Tychicus) Share the good news, not gossip Look for the gold in people Choose positive talk over negative Unity Bringers (Onesimus) Take risks to build bridges Stop running from conflict Step into painful situations Relationship Restorers (Paul & Mark) Try again when it seems hopeless Sometimes we play the role, sometimes we need someone to play it for us Bury the hatchet, do the hard work of repair Prayer Warriors (Epaphras) Wrestle in prayer for others Stop saying "I'll pray for you"—start praying on the spot Real intercession is hard work Faithful Healers (Luke) Stay close, don't desert Be a healing presence, not a Demas Listen to the Spirit's promptings to reach out Helpful Hosts (Nympha) Open your space for the gospel Use what you have, not what you don't Ministry often happens around a table Mission Completers (Archippus) Don't quit when you get sidetracked Pick back up what God has assigned you Complete the ministry you've received Takeaway: One day the credits will roll on your life—may your name appear beside every one of these seven roles.

Paul Durbin

Lead Pastor

July 19, 2026 • 6 Minute Read
Are You Keeping Pace With Jesus?
OVERVIEW 👀 In this message, Pastor Paul Durbin walks us through Colossians 4:2-6, unpacking four words that spell out P.A.C.E.—Pray, Act, Converse, and Everyone. Drawing from his recent trip to Morocco and a nail-biting layover in Paris, Paul reminds us that following Jesus takes intentional pace. Just as Jesus resolutely set his face toward Jerusalem, we're called to live with that same sense of purpose—praying devotedly for ourselves and our church, acting wisely toward outsiders, seasoning our conversations with grace and salt, and doing it all on behalf of everyone God places in our path.pace TIPS 📌 For the greatest impact, invite a few others to go through this study guide with you. You don't need to do every section and question—use what fits your group or season. Let the Spirit highlight where to slow down and engage. ICEBREAKER(S) 🧊 What's the most confusing airport, city, or building you've ever tried to navigate—and did you make it out with your dignity intact? If you had to pay for something today using a currency other than money (like salt, buttons, or high-fives), what would you want your currency to be? What's a food that is completely ruined without salt, and what's a food that is completely ruined with too much of it? BIBLE PASSAGE(S) 📖 Colossians 4:2-6 Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone. OBSERVATION 🔎 Paul uses four distinct commands in this passage—devote, pray, be wise, and let (your conversation). What does the order of these commands suggest about how they relate to each other? Paul asks the Colossians to pray specifically for two things regarding his ministry. What are those two things, and why might they matter more than a request for release from prison? What does Paul say our conversations should look like toward "outsiders," and what image does he use to describe that kind of speech? APPLICATION 👋 When you pray for yourself, are you honest about the things that trip you up, or do you tend to keep those areas hidden from God? Being watchful in prayer means naming the "XYZ" struggles we all carry. Bringing them into the light with Jesus is where real change begins. How often do you actually pray for Belay and the people who teach and lead here? Paul reminded us that preaching and teaching is a partnership—those who speak need the Spirit's help, and that often comes through the prayers of the church. Who in your life right now would be most surprised (in a good way) if you started praying for them regularly? Sometimes the people we overlook in prayer are the ones God wants to reach through our persistence. Think about how you treat people in everyday interactions—servers, cashiers, drivers on the road. Would they describe you as someone keeping pace with Jesus? Paul told the story of Kwame nearly walking away from faith because of how a pastor treated hotel staff. Our small moments often preach louder than our big ones. Does your conversation add value to the people you talk with, or does it mostly circle back to you? Salty speech, according to Paul, means people walk away feeling like their time with you was worth something. When was the last time your words made someone thirsty for Jesus—or at least curious about the hope you carry? Jesus made people thirsty just by talking with them. Our speech, filled with the Spirit, can do the same. Is there a conversation you've been avoiding because it might require you to lovingly "spur" someone on? Encouragement is part of the picture, but Hebrews reminds us that real community sometimes involves the uncomfortable work of pointing each other back to Jesus. LIVE ON BELAY 🏔️ Set a daily prayer alarm on your phone for one week and use it to pray for Belay—for open doors, clear teaching, and hearts to be reached. Pick one person you interact with regularly (a coworker, neighbor, barista) and commit to adding value to them through your conversation this week. Practice "arrow prayers" throughout your day—short, quick prayers like "Help me, Lord" or "Help her, Lord"—especially when you feel your pace slipping. Invite someone who feels like an "outsider" to coffee or a meal, and let your only agenda be listening well and treating them with the same grace Jesus would. Write a short note or text to someone who teaches, leads, or serves at Belay, letting them know you're praying for them by name. PRAYER 🙏 Lord, help me be honest with you about the things that trip me up, and give me the courage to invite you into those places. Father, open doors for the message of Jesus—through Belay, through me, through conversations I haven't even had yet. Jesus, teach me to talk like you talked—full of grace, seasoned with salt, adding value to everyone I meet. Holy Spirit, help me act wisely toward outsiders, especially when I'm tired, rushed, or annoyed. Lord, quicken my pace. Keep my eyes fixed on you and my heart aimed at the calling you've placed on my life. WORSHIP 🙌 OUTLINE 📝 Main Idea: Following Jesus requires an intentional pace—one marked by prayer, wise action, gracious conversation, and a heart for everyone. Pray Devotedly Be watchful—honest with God about what trips you up Be thankful—turn struggles into gratitude Pray for the church and those who teach Act Wisely Be like Jesus—hardest on the religious, gentlest with sinners Make the most of every opportunity Spur one another on, even when it's uncomfortable Converse Gracefully Salty speech is savory—it attracts and delights Salty speech adds value—people leave better Salty speech limits decay—it points toward holiness Salty speech triggers thirst—for Jesus On Behalf of Everyone Not just family, not just church—everyone You're a minister wherever you go Takeaway: Keep pace with Jesus by praying, acting, and speaking in ways that point every person you meet toward him.

Paul Durbin

Lead Pastor

July 12, 2026 • 5 Minute Read
Can You Trust God in the Pit?
OVERVIEW 👀 In this heartfelt message, Patty Durbin walks us through the life of Joseph and shows how God stays close, shapes character, and works good even in the darkest seasons. Drawing from her own story of growing up as an outsider in a broken home, Patty invites us to expect trouble, trust God's presence, worship through hard work, and adopt a kingdom perspective that sees setbacks as soil for something beautiful. Joseph's journey from pit to prison to palace reminds us that no pain is wasted when God is with us.in the pit TIPS 📌 For the greatest impact, invite a few others to go through this study guide with you. You don't need to do every section and question—use what fits your group or season. Let the Spirit highlight where to slow down and engage. ICEBREAKER(S) 🧊 What's the weirdest dream you've ever had? BIBLE PASSAGE(S) 📖 Genesis 37:2-36 Genesis 39:1-23 Genesis 40:23-41:57 John 16:33 1 Corinthians 10:13 1 Peter 5:6-10 James 1:2-4 Romans 8:37-39 OBSERVATION 🔎 In Genesis 37, what specific actions and attitudes from both Joseph and his brothers contribute to the family's brokenness? What details stand out? Throughout Genesis 39, the phrase "the Lord was with Joseph" appears multiple times. In what different circumstances does this phrase show up, and what happens as a result? In Genesis 41, how does Joseph respond when Pharaoh asks him to interpret the dreams? What does his answer reveal about how he has changed since chapter 37? APPLICATION 👋 Patty said we live in a time when we think that following Jesus should make life easier, but Jesus told us to expect trouble. Where in your life have you been surprised or discouraged by hardship because you expected the Christian life to be smoother? Joseph came from a deeply broken family, yet God still used him in powerful ways. What parts of your own family story have you assumed disqualified you from being used by God? Sometimes we treat our background as a limit rather than as raw material God can shape. Patty talked about the difference between pain and harm—sometimes pain is actually good for us. Can you think of a painful season that ended up producing growth in you? Or one you're in right now that might be doing the same? This helps us reframe our current struggles instead of only trying to escape them. Joseph "worshiped God in his work"—whether as a slave, a prisoner, or a leader. What would it look like this week for you to treat your everyday tasks as worship rather than just something to get through? Worship isn't just Sunday singing—it's the posture we bring to Monday mornings. Potiphar's wife tempted Joseph day after day, and he eventually ran. What temptation in your life do you need to stop negotiating with and simply flee from? God promises a way out, but sometimes taking it means leaving your coat behind. Joseph was forgotten in prison for two more years after helping the cupbearer. Where does it feel like God has forgotten you or left you waiting? How are you tempted to respond? Waiting is often where our character gets shaped the most. Patty said the 17-year-old privileged, proud Joseph became a humble 30-year-old servant through years of hardship. What is God trying to shape or soften in you right now through your current circumstances? God is more interested in who we're becoming than in how comfortable we are. LIVE ON BELAY 🏔️ Reach out to someone this week who is in a "pit" season—send a text, buy them coffee, or simply sit with them and remind them they're not alone. Pick one job or task you usually dread and intentionally do it as worship this week, giving it your full heart as if you're serving the Lord. Identify one temptation or unhealthy pattern you've been flirting with, and put a real boundary in place—delete the app, change the route, tell a friend. Write down three "negatives" from your story and ask God how He might want to use them for good. Share one with a trusted friend or Belay'er. Invite someone new into your circle this week—someone who might feel like the outsider, the way Patty once did in her small North Dakota town. PRAYER 🙏 Thank God for being with you in every season—the pit, the prison, and the palace. Ask God to shape humility and steadfastness in you through the hard things you're walking through. Pray for someone you know who feels forgotten, discouraged, or overwhelmed by trauma. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you where you're negotiating with temptation and give you courage to flee. Pray for a kingdom perspective—that God would help you trust His plan even when your circumstances feel absurd. WORSHIP 🙌 OUTLINE 📝 Main Idea: God is with us in every pit, prison, and palace—using every hardship to shape us into who He created us to be. Expect Trouble, Pain, and Betrayal Joseph's broken family Brothers' betrayal and the cistern Jesus promised trouble in this world God Is With Us "The Lord was with Joseph" in Potiphar's house The Lord was with Joseph in prison God walks with us in water and fire Worship God in Your Work Fleeing temptation with Potiphar's wife Serving faithfully as a slave and prisoner Every task can be worship Adopt a Kingdom Perspective Forgotten but not abandoned Humble Joseph before Pharaoh God shapes character through difficulty Nothing Is Wasted Manasseh—God made me forget Ephraim—God prospered me in my sorrow God restores, confirms, strengthens, establishes Takeaway: No pit is too deep, no prison too long, and no pain too great for God to redeem—so keep trusting, keep worshiping, and keep walking with the One who is walking with you.

Patty Durbin

July 5, 2026 • 6 Minute Read
What If God Himself Is the Blessing?
OVERVIEW 👀 In this message, Daniel Ziesing walks us through the Beatitudes in Matthew 5 and reframes what it really means to be "blessed." Rather than treating blessing as a Christian buzzword or a list of good things we hope God will hand us, Daniel shows how Jesus is describing the good life—a life of flourishing that flows from being poor in spirit, mournful over sin, gentle, hungry for righteousness, merciful, pure in heart, peacemaking, and even willing to be persecuted. The heart of the message is simple and profound: God Himself is our greatest blessing, and every other gift is secondary to knowing Him.God himself TIPS 📌 For the greatest impact, invite a few others to go through this study guide with you. You don't need to do every section and question—use what fits your group or season. Let the Spirit highlight where to slow down and engage. ICEBREAKER(S) 🧊 If you could inherit any one thing on earth (a mountain, a taco truck, an NFL team), what would you pick and why? BIBLE PASSAGE(S) 📖 Matthew 5:1-12 Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them. He said: "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you." OBSERVATION 🔎 What repeated word or phrase stands out most as you read through the Beatitudes, and what patterns do you notice in how each verse is structured? What kind of people does Jesus describe as "blessed," and how does that list compare to how the world typically defines a blessed or successful person? Look at the second half of each Beatitude (the "for they will…" phrases). What is Jesus promising, and who is the one doing the giving? APPLICATION 👋 When you hear the word "blessing," what usually comes to mind first—God Himself, or the gifts and circumstances He gives? This question gets at the heart of Daniel's message. It helps expose where we might be treating God's gifts as the main thing rather than God Himself. Where in your life are you tempted to trust your own strength or goodness instead of admitting you're "poor in spirit"? Being poor in spirit isn't weakness—it's honesty. Take a minute to consider whether pride is quietly running the show anywhere. Are you more likely to laugh off your sin or genuinely mourn over it? Daniel quoted Richard Wurmbrand: "I hear a whole lot of laughing in America, but very little weeping." True mourning over sin leads us to real comfort and repentance. What "authority ladder" are you climbing right now that God might be asking you to step off of? Meekness is a broken stallion—still strong, but usable. Sometimes God's blessing looks like being freed from a fight that was never worth it. Would you say you're hungering and thirsting more for God's righteousness, or for your own comfort, reputation, or preferences? This isn't about guilt—it's about honestly noticing what you feed on most. What we hunger for shapes who we become. Is there someone in your life right now who needs mercy from you—and how does remembering the mercy you've received change how you approach them? If we've truly received mercy, we tend to give it. Withheld mercy might be a sign we've forgotten our own. Where might God be calling you to be a peacemaker, even if it means people insult or misunderstand you? Peacemaking isn't avoiding conflict—it's bringing people to God, who is our true peace. That will cost something. LIVE ON BELAY 🏔️ Read Matthew 5-7 this week in one sitting and jot down one line that convicts you and one that comforts you. Pick one person you've been withholding mercy from and take a tangible step—text, call, coffee, or forgiveness—to extend it. Share your salvation story (or a moment you felt closest to God) with one non-believing friend or neighbor this week. Practice "poor in spirit" prayer each morning for seven days—start with, "God, I need you today," before asking for anything else. Invite someone who's mourning (a loss, a hard season, their own sin) out for a walk or a meal and simply be present with them. PRAYER 🙏 Thank God for being the greatest blessing—more than anything He gives, He Himself is the gift. Ask the Spirit to soften your heart to genuinely mourn over sin—yours, your community's, and the world's. Pray for meekness—that God would break any wild rebellion in you and use you fully for His will. Ask God to make you merciful in a specific relationship where mercy feels hard. Pray for boldness to be a peacemaker who brings people to Jesus, even when it costs you. WORSHIP 🙌 OUTLINE 📝 Main Idea: God Himself is our greatest blessing—every other gift is secondary. What "Blessed" Actually Means Makarios / esher: happy, flourishing, the good life Not what the world calls the good life Jesus is redefining human flourishing The Eight Attitudes of the Blessed Life Poor in spirit — free from pride, receive God's mercy Those who mourn — brokenness over sin leads to true comfort The gentle — broken stallions who inherit through God's will Hunger and thirst for righteousness — satisfied yet still seeking The merciful — full of mercy because they've received mercy Pure in heart — pure devotion, undivided loyalty to God Peacemakers — bring others to God, the source of peace Persecuted — both by inner flesh and outer world The Point Behind the Points Every Beatitude points back to God as the reward Blessings in Scripture are always secondary to knowing God Salvation and spiritual maturity share the same posture Takeaway: Any blessing we receive should help us see God more deeply, turn us to repentance, and move us to share His love with others.

Daniel Ziesing

June 28, 2026 • 8 Minute Read
What's Your Next Step After Meeting Jesus?
OVERVIEW 👀 In week six of the Colossians series, Pastor Paul Durbin walks us through Colossians 3, where the Apostle Paul lays out what comes next after we've been raised with Christ. Using stories from hiking, camping, and a little dog named Perry, Paul unpacks four practical next steps every follower of Jesus can take: pursuing heaven's perspective, putting off old hindrances, putting on Christ's qualities, and practicing Christ-like relationships. This is a message about moving from the parking lot into the real beauty of life with Jesus—and discovering that how we treat others is really how we treat Him.step TIPS 📌 For the greatest impact, invite a few others to go through this study guide with you. You don't need to do every section and question—use what fits your group or season. Let the Spirit highlight where to slow down and engage. ICEBREAKER(S) 🧊 If your family went on vacation growing up, were you a "stay at a hotel" family or a "camp out of the car" family? Any stories? BIBLE PASSAGE(S) 📖 Colossians 3:1–4:1 (NIV) 1 Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. 5 Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. 6 Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. 7 You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. 8 But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. 9 Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices 10 and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. 11 Here there is no Gentile or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all. 12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. 15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. 17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. 18 Wives, submit yourselves to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. 19 Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them. 20 Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. 21 Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged. 22 Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to curry their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. 23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. 25 Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for their wrongs, and there is no favoritism. 1 Masters, provide your slaves with what is right and fair, because you know that you also have a Master in heaven. OBSERVATION 🔎 What does Paul say has already happened to us in verses 1–4, and what does he say is still to come? In verses 5–11, what specific things does Paul tell us to "put to death" and "rid ourselves of"? What words or themes show up more than once? According to verses 12–17, what are believers told to "clothe themselves" with, and what role does Christ play in holding it all together? APPLICATION 👋 Where are you currently parked at the "trailhead" of your faith—seeing the view but not actually stepping into it? Pastor Paul described people who visit national parks but never get out of their car. Sometimes we settle for a windshield view of Jesus instead of hiking deeper in. What does it actually look like for you this week to "set your mind on things above" in the middle of bills, stress, and a busy schedule? This isn't about escaping real life—it's about letting heaven's perspective shape how you handle it. What's your "Perry"—the thing you keep holding onto even though you know it's holding you back? For the woman in Tijuana, it was a tiny dog that kept her in an unsafe situation. For us, it might be a habit, a relationship, an old wound, or an attitude. Paul says in Christ there is no Jew or Gentile, slave or free. What identity are you tempted to put above your identity as a follower of Jesus? Our culture loves labels. Paul reminds us that being "in Christ" is the identity that reshapes all the others. Which one of these qualities do you most need to "put on" right now—compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, or patience? We don't drift into Christlikeness. We have to choose to clothe ourselves with it. Who is one person you've struggled to forgive, and what would it look like to forgive them "as the Lord forgave you"? Forgiveness isn't pretending it didn't hurt; it's releasing the debt the way Jesus released yours. If you really believed that how you treat others is how you treat Jesus, what's one relationship that would change this week? Spouse, kid, coworker, barista, the driver who cut you off—Jesus says it all counts as how we treat Him. LIVE ON BELAY 🏔️ Pick one quality from verse 12 (compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience) and intentionally practice it every day this week with the people you usually rush past. Write down your "Perry"—the thing holding you back—and share it with one trusted Belay'er who can pray with you and check in on you. Treat one service worker this week (barista, server, cashier, delivery driver) as if you were serving Jesus Himself. Make eye contact, learn a name, leave a generous tip, speak a blessing. Reach out to someone you've had a grievance with and take a step toward forgiveness—a conversation, a text, or simply releasing it before the Lord. Invite someone who feels stuck at the "trailhead" of faith to join you at Belay or for a meal, and share one next step Jesus is leading you to take. PRAYER 🙏 Ask God to lift your eyes to heaven's perspective in the middle of everyday stress and noise. Ask the Spirit to show you the "Perry" you're still holding onto, and for the courage to let it go. Ask Jesus to clothe you with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience this week. Pray for one specific relationship where you need to treat the other person as if you were treating Jesus. Thank God that you've been raised with Christ and that your real life is hidden with Him. WORSHIP 🙌 OUTLINE 📝 Main Idea: Since you've been raised with Christ, take the next steps into the new life He's prepared for you. 1) Pursue Heaven's Perspective Set your heart and mind on things above Stop viewing life from the windshield—get out and hike in You've died; your real life is hidden with Christ 2) Put Off Old Hindrances Put to death sexual immorality, impurity, lust, greed, anger, slander, lying Drop your "Perry"—the thing you keep holding that holds you back Your old identities don't define you anymore; Christ is all and in all 3) Put On Christ's Qualities Clothe yourself with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience Bear with each other and forgive as the Lord forgave you Let the peace of Christ rule and the word of Christ dwell richly 4) Practice Christ-like Relationships Wives, husbands, children, parents, workers, leaders—all changed by Jesus It is the Lord Christ you are serving How you treat others is how you treat Him Takeaway: You've been raised with Christ—now take the next step into the life He's already prepared for you.

Paul Durbin

Lead Pastor

June 21, 2026 • 7 Minute Read
What is hijacking your faith?
OVERVIEW 👀 In this fifth message from the Book of Colossians, Pastor Paul Durbin walks us through Colossians 2:8–23 and uncovers four sneaky "hijackers" that try to pull our faith away from Jesus. Using a memorable story of a bait-and-switch taxi ride in China, Paul reminds us that in Christ we already have fullness, newness, and forgiveness—and we don't need anything more added to that. He challenges us to spot godless philosophies, legalistic rule keeping, mystical experiences, and traditional wisdom that try to take us for a ride to places we don't want to go. The invitation is simple: keep your faith squarely rooted in Jesus.hijack TIPS 📌 For the greatest impact, invite a few others to go through this study guide with you. You don't need to do every section and question—use what fits your group or season. Let the Spirit highlight where to slow down and engage. ICEBREAKER(S) 🧊 Have you ever been "bait and switched" by something that promised one thing and delivered another (a vacation, a product, a meal)? Tell the story. BIBLE PASSAGE(S) 📖 Colossians 3:1–4:1 (NIV) 1 Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. 5 Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. 6 Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. 7 You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. 8 But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. 9 Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices 10 and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. 11 Here there is no Gentile or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all. 12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. 15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. 17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. 18 Wives, submit yourselves to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. 19 Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them. 20 Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. 21 Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged. 22 Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to curry their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. 23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. 25 Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for their wrongs, and there is no favoritism. 1 Masters, provide your slaves with what is right and fair, because you know that you also have a Master in heaven. OBSERVATION 🔎 What words or phrases does Paul use to describe what we already have "in Christ"? What specific warnings or "watch outs" does Paul give in this passage? What does Paul say happened to the record of our sin, and what imagery does he use to describe it? APPLICATION 👋 Where are you most tempted to believe Jesus alone isn't enough—that you need to add something to your faith to feel secure? Paul compares our fullness in Christ to a cargo ship that can't take on one more piece of cargo without sinking. What "extras" have you been tempted to load on top of Jesus? Is there a "godless philosophy" or smart-sounding idea you've been quietly absorbing that leaves Jesus out of the equation? Do you find yourself measuring your spiritual life more by rules you keep (or break) than by your relationship with Jesus? What might that be hiding? Pastor Paul shared that he's had real, unexplainable spiritual experiences—but warned against chasing the experience over the relationship. Where might you be chasing a spiritual "high" instead of a steady walk with Jesus? What cultural expectations (being on time, independent, successful, polished) do you sometimes confuse with being a good Christian? These are good things, but they're not the same as righteousness in Christ. If a friend asked you, "What does it actually mean to follow Jesus?" how would you answer without sliding into a list of do's and don'ts? LIVE ON BELAY 🏔️ Pick one "hijacker" from the message (philosophy, legalism, mysticism, or cultural wisdom) and ask a trusted friend this week to help you spot it in your own life. Write down three things you have in Christ—fullness, newness, forgiveness—and share them with someone who needs that reminder. Reach out to someone who feels disqualified or "not enough" spiritually and remind them what Jesus has already done for them. Invite someone over for a meal this week and have a real, unhurried conversation about faith—relationship, not rules. Spend one morning this week unplugged from social media or news, and use that time to simply talk with Jesus like a friend. PRAYER 🙏 Thank Jesus for the fullness, newness, and forgiveness you already have in Him. Ask the Spirit to show you any "hijacker" that's slowly pulled you off course. Pray for someone you know who's stuck in rule-keeping religion instead of relationship. Ask God to keep your faith simple, steady, and rooted in Jesus alone. Pray for Belay'ers to live on belay this week—on mission, in step with the Spirit. WORSHIP 🙌 OUTLINE 📝 Main Idea: In Christ, you already have everything you need—don't let anything hijack that. What We Have In Christ Fullness — the cargo ship is full Newness — buried and raised with Christ Forgiveness — nailed to the cross Hijacker One: Godless Philosophies Smart-sounding ideas that leave Jesus out True wisdom starts with the fear of the Lord C.S. Lewis: by Christ we see everything else Hijacker Two: Legalistic Rule Keeping Measuring faith by do's and don'ts Rules are a shadow; Christ is the reality Relationship, not a rulebook Hijacker Three: Mystical Experiences Chasing a high over a connection Experiences without the Head are empty Welcome them, but don't worship them Hijacker Four: Traditional Wisdom Cultural norms can look like righteousness Good citizen ≠ citizen of heaven Honor culture, but don't bow to it Takeaway: Put your faith squarely in Jesus—He is enough, and anything added only sinks the ship.

Paul Durbin

Lead Pastor

June 14, 2026 • 6 Minute Read
How Can I Grow Toward Greater Christ-Like Maturity? P2
OVERVIEW 👀 In part two of his teaching on Christ-like maturity, Pastor Paul Durbin walks Belay'ers through Colossians 1:24–2:7 to unpack three more deliberate practices that grow us into spiritually mature followers of Jesus. He shows how spiritual discernment, continual growth, and overflowing thankfulness move us past fine-sounding arguments and shallow faith into a deeply rooted life in Christ. Using the picture of a pinyon pine sending its taproot deep into rocky ground, Paul invites us to stop spreading wide and start going down—anchored in Jesus, who is all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.part 2 TIPS 📌 For the greatest impact, invite a few others to go through this study guide with you. You don't need to do every section and question—use what fits your group or season. Let the Spirit highlight where to slow down and engage. ICEBREAKER(S) 🧊 If you had 10,000 hours to master any skill (no responsibilities, no excuses), what would you pick and why? BIBLE PASSAGE(S) 📖 Colossians 1:24–2:7 24 Now I rejoice in what I am suffering for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ’s afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church. 25 I have become its servant by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness—26 the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the Lord’s people. 27 To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. 28 He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ. 29 To this end I strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me. 1 I want you to know how hard I am contending for you and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not met me personally. 2 My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 4 I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine-sounding arguments. 5 For though I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit and delight to see how disciplined you are and how firm your faith in Christ is. 6 So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, 7 rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. OBSERVATION 🔎 What words or phrases does Paul use to describe what Jesus is and what He gives to believers in this passage? What does Paul say is his goal for the believers he writes to, and what reasons does he give for telling them all of this? Paul uses agricultural and construction images (rooted, built up, strengthened). What do these word pictures suggest about the kind of life Paul is describing? APPLICATION 👋 Paul warns about being deceived by "fine-sounding arguments." What's a spiritual idea or message you've encountered recently that sounded great on the surface but didn't quite line up with Jesus? We grow in discernment by knowing the real thing—Jesus Himself. How would you describe your current rhythm of getting to know Jesus through His Word? The legalism trap says, "Jesus plus something else." Where might you be tempted to add conditions—rules, performance, or proving yourself—to your relationship with God? The mysticism trap says other voices or practices are also needed to be whole. Are there any "extra voices" (horoscopes, self-help gurus, trending spiritual ideas) competing with Jesus for your attention? Blue spruce roots grow wide but shallow; pinyon pine roots grow deep. Honestly, which one better describes your spiritual life right now? Take a moment to consider why. Paul says to "continue to live your lives in him." Where are you tempted to coast or stop growing? What does pressing on look like in this season? Paul mentions thankfulness in every chapter of Colossians. What would change in your daily life if you actually overflowed with gratitude instead of complaints or excuses? LIVE ON BELAY 🏔️ Pick one passage of Scripture this week (try Colossians 1–2) and read it daily. Let it sink in so you can recognize the real thing when fine-sounding arguments come along. Write down three things you're thankful for every morning this week—and tell at least one person each day something specific you appreciate about them. Invite someone further along in their faith to coffee and ask them how they've grown a deeper taproot in Jesus. Listen, take notes, and apply what you hear. Identify one "extra voice" you've been listening to (a podcast, app, influencer, habit) that's been crowding out Jesus, and take a break from it for two weeks. Send a quick text, note, or voice message to someone outside your normal circle this week to encourage them and remind them that Christ in them is the hope of glory. PRAYER 🙏 Thank Jesus that the gospel is simple: He came to save sinners, and that includes you. Ask the Holy Spirit for sharper discernment to spot fine-sounding arguments that pull you off course. Pray for a deeper taproot—ask God to root you in Him and in His Word this season. Ask God to make you a person who overflows with thankfulness, even on hard days. Pray for someone in your life who needs to hear the hope of "Christ in you" today. WORSHIP 🙌 OUTLINE 📝 Main Idea: Growing toward Christ-like maturity takes time, mentors, and deliberate practices that root us deeply in Jesus. Quick Review of Last Week's Practices joyful suffering willing service strenuous contending walking in glorious hope 5) The Practice of Spiritual Discernment fine-sounding arguments still exist today the legalism trap: Jesus plus rules the mysticism trap: Jesus plus other voices we discern by knowing the real Jesus 6) The Practice of Continual Growth blue spruce: wide roots, easily blown over pinyon pine: deep taproot, survives the storms the parable of the soils—go deep in good soil 7) The Practice of Overflowing Thankfulness we overflow with apologies, excuses, or complaints Paul mentions gratitude in every chapter of Colossians what if we went overboard with thankfulness? Takeaway: Practice these things and immerse yourself in them, so all may see your progress.

Paul Durbin

Lead Pastor

June 12, 2026 • 7 Minute Read
How Can I Grow Toward Greater Christ-Like Maturity?
OVERVIEW 👀 In this message from Colossians 1:24–2:7, Paul Durbin unpacks the Apostle Paul's vision of becoming "fully mature" (teleios) in Christ. Drawing on Malcolm Gladwell's 10,000-hour rule and the pushback that real mastery requires deliberate practice with coaching, Paul shows that spiritual maturity works the same way. Jesus isn't waiting at the finish line tapping His foot—He's the world-class expert walking with us, filling us with His Spirit. Through four deliberate practices—joyful suffering, willing service, strenuous contending, and glorious hope—we grow into the kind of mature, seasoned followers who reflect Jesus to the world.Grow TIPS 📌 For the greatest impact, invite a few others to go through this study guide with you. You don't need to do every section and question—use what fits your group or season. Let the Spirit highlight where to slow down and engage. ICEBREAKER(S) 🧊 Have you ever been in an outdoor situation that got way more serious than you expected? (Lost on a trail, stuck in weather, kayak drifting out to sea…) BIBLE PASSAGE(S) 📖 Colossians 1:24–2:7 24 Now I rejoice in what I am suffering for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ’s afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church. 25 I have become its servant by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness—26 the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the Lord’s people. 27 To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. 28 He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ. 29 To this end I strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me. 1 I want you to know how hard I am contending for you and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not met me personally. 2 My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 4 I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine-sounding arguments. 5 For though I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit and delight to see how disciplined you are and how firm your faith in Christ is. 6 So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, 7 rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. OBSERVATION 🔎 What words or phrases does Paul repeat in this passage, and what do those repetitions emphasize about his focus? According to verse 28, what is Paul's goal for the people he serves, and what methods does he use to get them there? What does Paul say about the source of his energy and strength in verse 29, and how does that contrast with how we usually think about hard work? APPLICATION 👋 Paul says he rejoices in his suffering. Where in your life right now are you tempted toward bitter suffering instead of joyful suffering? Reframing pain through the lens of knowing Jesus better is hard—but it changes everything. Think about a current frustration or hardship and how Jesus might be in it with you. What's one area where you've stopped growing because you've gotten comfortable just doing what you already know how to do? Like the violinists who needed deliberate practice and coaching, we can plateau spiritually without realizing it. Comfort is often the enemy of maturity. Paul went from persecuting the church to becoming its servant. What does it look like for you to "become" a servant in this season—at home, work, or church? Maturity shows up when we walk into a room asking how we can serve instead of how we'll be served. When was the last time you strenuously contended for something spiritually—prayer, a relationship, a habit, a calling? Kapos means weariness like you've been beaten. Most of us avoid that kind of effort in our walk with Jesus, but it's where real growth happens. Where do you feel like you've got "nothing left"—and how might Jesus be the speedboat showing up on the swell? Paul didn't fight with his own energy; he fought with Christ's energy in him. That changes both what we attempt and how long we keep going. What "new hacks" or quick fixes have you been chasing for spiritual growth instead of the old, proven ingredient of Jesus Himself? The master stock isn't impressive because it's new—it's rich because it's ancient. Maturity comes from time spent with the timeless One. Who in your life is farther along in faith, and how could you invite their honest feedback into your spiritual growth? Mastery requires coaches and mentors. We need people who'll tell us the truth and help us see our blind spots. LIVE ON BELAY 🏔️ Pick one current hardship and write down three ways God might be using it to grow you—then share it with a fellow Belay'er this week. Show up somewhere this week (Belay, work, neighborhood, family) with one question on your mind: "How can I serve here?" Then actually do it. Choose one area where you've been ready to quit—a relationship, a habit, a calling—and recommit for 30 more days of strenuous contending, with prayer and a friend cheering you on. Reach out to someone you know who's suffering and simply sit with them—bring a meal, a text, or a coffee. Be the speedboat showing up on the swell. Find a mature believer and ask them to coach or mentor you in one specific area of your faith for the next season. PRAYER 🙏 Jesus, when suffering shows up, help me reframe it as a doorway to know You better. Lord, give me a true servant's heart—make me someone who walks in asking how to give, not how to get. Holy Spirit, fill me with the energy of Christ to strenuously contend where I'd rather quit. Father, free me from chasing quick fixes and root me deeper in the ancient, proven goodness of Jesus. Jesus, make me a giant in the faith—not for applause, but for the sake of the people You've placed around me. WORSHIP 🙌 OUTLINE 📝 Main Idea: Christ-like maturity (teleios) doesn't happen by accident—it's the result of deliberate, Spirit-empowered practice over time. 1) The Practice of Joyful Suffering Paul rejoices from prison Reframing pain to know Jesus better Praying for breakthrough while receiving the work 2) The Practice of Willing Service Paul "became" a servant Maturity shows up not on stage, but in the kitchen Putting childhood selfishness behind us 3) The Practice of Strenuous Contending Kapos—weariness like being beaten The kayak story: when the fight leaves you Fighting with Christ's energy, not just our own 4) The Practice of Glorious Hope The master stock: ancient, not new Christ in you, the hope of glory Yielding daily: "Fill me up, Jesus" Takeaway: Don't chase new hacks—press into the ancient, Spirit-filled practices that grow giants in the faith.

Paul Durbin

Lead Pastor

May 31, 2026 • 5 Minute Read
Why Should Jesus Be the Center?
OVERVIEW 👀 In this message from Colossians 1:15-23, Pastor Paul Durbin walks us through what many scholars call the most Christ-centered passage in the New Testament. Paul unpacks eight powerful reasons Jesus insists on being the center of our lives—not a welcome guest, not an add-on, but the absolute nucleus around which everything else revolves. From Jesus being the visible image of the invisible God, to the Creator who holds all things together, to the One who reconciles us back to the Father through the cross, this teaching invites us to ask an honest question: Is Jesus truly at the center of my life?Jesus at the Center TIPS 📌 For the greatest impact, invite a few others to go through this study guide with you. You don't need to do every section and question—use what fits your group or season. Let the Spirit highlight where to slow down and engage. ICEBREAKER(S) 🧊 What's a weird life hack you've learned that nobody else seems to know about (like the South African super glue and baking soda trick)? BIBLE PASSAGE(S) 📖 Colossians 1:15-23 (NIV) OBSERVATION 🔎 What does Paul say specifically about Jesus' relationship to creation in verses 15-17? In verses 21-22, what words does Paul use to describe our past condition versus our present condition in Christ? Verse 18 says Jesus is "the head of the body, the church" so that "in everything he might have the supremacy." What does this language suggest about Jesus' role and authority? APPLICATION 👋 Pastor Paul said Jesus isn't a "welcome guest" but the nucleus your life revolves around. What's the difference between treating Jesus as a guest versus the center? Take a moment to think honestly—what currently competes with Jesus for the center of your life? This isn't about shame; it's about clarity on where our hearts actually orbit. Paul warned about following political leaders, entertainers, or ideologies with cult-like intensity. Where do you see this happening in your own life or circles? Sometimes the things we follow most passionately reveal what we've actually centered our lives around. Pastor Paul shared that Jesus' fingerprint is literally on you because He created you. How does seeing yourself as God's artwork change the way you treat yourself and others? If "Jesus holds everything together," what's an area of your life right now that feels like it's falling apart and could use His sustaining grip? Naming it is often the first step to surrendering it. The "if you continue" language in verse 23 creates some tension—our reconciliation is by grace, yet we're called to keep walking in faith. How do you live in that tension without falling into either laziness or legalism? Pastor Paul shared about the long alienation and eventual reconciliation with his sister. Is there a relationship in your life where you could take the first step toward reconciliation, the way God took the first step toward you? LIVE ON BELAY 🏔️ Write down the eight reasons Jesus deserves the center and post them somewhere you'll see daily this week—on the bathroom mirror, your dashboard, or the fridge. Take a "centering inventory" this week. Each evening, ask yourself: where did Jesus actually sit on the throne of my heart today, and where did something else? Reach out to someone you've been alienated from. Send the text, make the call, suggest the coffee. Be the one who moves first, like Jesus did toward us. Invite a fellow Belay'er into a conversation about what it practically looks like to keep Jesus at the center in their work, family, or schoolweek. Bless someone this week who doesn't yet know the One who holds all things together—offer a meal, a listening ear, a prayer, or a simple word of encouragement. PRAYER 🙏 Thank Jesus for being the image of the invisible God and ask Him to make Himself more visible in your daily life. Pray for the grace to dethrone whatever currently sits where Jesus belongs. Ask the Holy Spirit for endurance—the kind Paul talked about—to keep continuing in your faith. Pray for a relationship in your life that needs reconciliation, asking God to give you courage to take the first step. Pray for Belay, that we would be a community where Jesus is unmistakably at the center. WORSHIP 🙌 OUTLINE 📝 Main Idea: Jesus insists on being the absolute center of your life, and Colossians 1 gives us eight powerful reasons why. 1) Jesus Is God The icon of the invisible God Not Caesar, not a political leader, not an entertainer 2) Jesus Created Everything All things made through Him and for Him His fingerprint is literally on you 3) Jesus Holds Everything Together The supernatural glue of the universe If He holds galaxies, He can hold your life 4) Jesus Has Been Put in Charge Head of the body, the church Life goes better when He calls the shots 5) Jesus Is the Essence of Life "I am the resurrection and the life" Resurrection didn't happen to Jesus—He (the resurrection and life) happened to death 6) Jesus Gave His Life for Us Sin requires blood; God provided His own Atonement received, not earned 7) Jesus Reconciles Us to God We were enemies; now we're holy and free God made the move toward us 8) Jesus Sustains Us "If you continue" is held up by His Spirit's power We don't walk this road alone Takeaway: Jesus has moved toward you—why not move back toward Him and let Him take His rightful place at the center?

Paul Durbin

Lead Pastor

May 28, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
Discovery Bible Study
What is it? DBS is a simple guide for group Bible study. In a DBS, we read a Bible story, discover what it says, and are challenged to live out what we’ve learned. Look Back ⏪ Look back on your week and discuss: What are you grateful for? What's a challenge you're facing? How have you followed through on what you’ve been learning? Look In 🔍 Read a passage of Scripture a few times, summarize it, then discuss: What stands out? What do we learn about God/Jesus/His nature? What do we learn about people/us/humanity? Look Up ☝️ Discuss the impact this DBS will have on your next week: What is the Holy Spirit saying to you through our time together? What are you going to do about it? How can this group come alongside you? Look Forward 👣 Pray together and set a time to meet again 10 Stories of Hope Party at Levi’s Mark 2:1-17 (NIV) Jesus Teaches Nicodemus John 3:1-17 (NIV) A Transformed Life Mark 5:1-20 (NIV) A Memorable Act Luke 7:37-50 (NIV) The Lost Son Returns Luke 15:11-32 (NIV) Thank You Luke 17:11-19 (NIV) What God Sees Luke 18:9-14 (NIV) Coming to Your House Luke 19:1-10 (NIV) Hungry for God John 4:1-54 (NIV) Hearing God Mark 4:1-20 (NIV) For more information and additional lists, visit https://novo.org/dbs

Paul Durbin

Lead Pastor

May 24, 2026 • 6 Minute Read
How Does God Keep Growing You After You Believe?
OVERVIEW 👀 In this opening message of a six-week series through Colossians, Pastor Paul Durbin walks us through the first 14 verses of Paul's letter and asks a simple but powerful question: how does God's work keep growing in us after we've believed? Drawing from Paul's prayer for the Colossian church, Paul highlights five growth areas the Holy Spirit wants to develop in every follower of Jesus—clarity, strength, gratitude, awareness, and prayerfulness. With warmth, humor, and practical insight, Paul reminds us that spiritual maturity isn't about hard things going away; it's about being rooted deeply enough in Christ to bear more and more fruit, no matter the season.Sermon TIPS 📌 For the greatest impact, invite a few others to go through this study guide with you. You don't need to do every section and question—use what fits your group or season. Let the Spirit highlight where to slow down and engage. ICEBREAKER(S) 🧊 If you had to compete in curling, pickleball, or ultimate frisbee for a championship, which would you pick and why? BIBLE PASSAGE(S) 📖 Colossians 1:1–14 (NIV) 1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, 2 To God’s holy people in Colossae, the faithful brothers and sisters in Christ: Grace and peace to you from God our Father. 3 We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, 4 because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all God’s people—5 the faith and love that spring from the hope stored up for you in heaven and about which you have already heard in the true message of the gospel 6 that has come to you. In the same way, the gospel is bearing fruit and growing throughout the whole world—just as it has been doing among you since the day you heard it and truly understood God’s grace. 7 You learned it from Epaphras, our dear fellow servant, who is a faithful minister of Christ on our behalf, 8 and who also told us of your love in the Spirit. 9 For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, 10 so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, 11 being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, 12 and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light. 13 For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. OBSERVATION 🔎 What does Paul specifically thank God for when he prays for the Colossians, and what does that reveal about what mattered most to him? In verses 9-12, what are the specific things Paul asks God to do in the lives of these believers? According to verses 13-14, what has God already done for those who are in Christ? List as many actions as you can find. APPLICATION 👋 Where in your life right now are you most needing clarity from God? Paul prays that we'd be "filled with the knowledge of His will." Think about a decision, relationship, or season where you're unsure of what God wants—what would it look like to actively seek His will rather than passively wait? What's a hard thing from a few years ago that doesn't level you the way it used to? Spiritual maturity doesn't mean hard things stop hurting—it means they stop having the same power to destroy us. Consider how God has already grown your strength and endurance. When you scan your conversations from the past week, which won out—gratitude or complaining? Our culture trains us to complain and call it feedback. Be honest with yourself about the tone of your everyday talk. What's one specific thing Jesus has "buried" in your life that you sometimes still try to dig back up?Brokenness, unforgiveness, shame, idolatry—Paul says these things go into the grave with Christ. Sometimes we keep revisiting what God has already put to rest. Do you tend to think of yourself more as a sinner or as a saint? Paul never addresses believers as sinners—he calls them saints with growing to do. Our self-identity shapes how we live. Who are you currently praying for regularly, and who might God be nudging you to add to that list? Paul models growth in prayerfulness by simply praying these very things for people he had never even met. What's one practice you could put in place this week to grow in one of these five areas (clarity, strength, gratitude, awareness, prayerfulness)? Growth isn't passive. Pick one and get specific. LIVE ON BELAY 🏔️ Start a simple gratitude rhythm this week—text one person each day something specific you're thankful for about them. Pick three people (a neighbor, a co-worker, a Belay'er) and pray Colossians 1:9-12 over them by name every day this week. Catch yourself mid-complaint at least once and turn it into a thank-you out loud, even if it feels awkward. Take a 20-minute walk with no phone and ask God for clarity on one specific decision you're facing. Reach out to someone who is in a hard season and remind them that what once leveled them won't level them forever—offer to pray with them. PRAYER 🙏 Lord, fill me with the knowledge of Your will—give me clarity for the decisions in front of me. Father, strengthen me with Your power so I can endure with patience whatever this week brings. Jesus, replace my complaining heart with a grateful one—catch me when I drift. Holy Spirit, help me see clearly what's been buried at the cross and what's been raised to new life in me. Lord, grow me in prayerfulness for the people around me, especially those who don't yet know You. WORSHIP 🙌 OUTLINE 📝 Main Idea: God's work in us doesn't stop at belief—He keeps growing us in five key areas. 1) Growing in Clarity Knowing God's will for our life Asking, reading, yielding 2) Growing in Strength, Power, and Endurance Hard things still happen—but they don't destroy us the same way Spiritual maturity carries weight that used to crush us 3) Growing in Gratitude A complaining tongue reveals an ungrateful heart Contentment in every circumstance through Christ's strength 4) Growing in Awareness What's been buried with Christ: brokenness, unforgiveness, sin's reign, idolatry, shame, deception What's been raised in Christ: relationship, inheritance, sainthood, embarking on mission 5) Growing in Prayerfulness Paul models it by praying these very things for people he'd never met Mature faith prays these growth areas over others Takeaway: Keep growing—by God's grace, in His power, for His glory.

Paul Durbin

Lead Pastor