What If God Himself Is the Blessing?
A fresh look at the Beatitudes that reveals how God Himself is the greatest blessing we could ever receive.

Daniel Ziesing •
July 5, 2026

6 Minute Read
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.

170 | What If God Himself Is the Blessing?

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.

Daniel Ziesing • 7/5/2026
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 🔎
  1. 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?
  2. 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?
  3. 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 👋
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.

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From this Collection: Study Guides
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? 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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? 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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? 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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

May 17, 2026 • 7 Minute Read
How Do We Stay on the Path of Purity?
OVERVIEW 👀 Paul Durbin teaches from Psalm 119 and asks the same question David asked thousands of years ago: how can a person stay on the path of purity? Purity is not just about avoiding obvious sin; it is a life of honesty, integrity, holiness, and character, where we have nothing to hide and our lives honor God and people. Paul walks through six practical ways to stay on that path: prioritize the Word of God, unreservedly seek God, restrict your freedom, internalize Scripture, turn and keep turning, and ultimately yield to the lordship of Jesus. The message reminds us that we cannot walk this path in our own strength, but Jesus cleanses us, forgives us, and gives us resurrection life so we can live differently.How Do We Stay on the Path of Purity? 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 life had a “no Bible, no browsing” rule, what app would complain the loudest? BIBLE PASSAGE(S) 📖 Psalm 119:9-11 How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word. With my whole heart, I have sought you. Don’t let me wander from your commandments. I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. Psalm 24:3-6 Who may ascend to Yahweh’s hill? Who may stand in his holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart; who has not lifted up his soul to falsehood, and has not sworn deceitfully. He shall receive a blessing from Yahweh, righteousness from the God of his salvation. This is the generation of those who seek Him, who seek your face, even Jacob. Psalm 119:32 I run in the path of your commandments, for you have set my heart free. Psalm 119:36-37 Turn my heart toward your statutes, not toward selfish gain. Turn my eyes away from looking at worthless things. Revive me in your ways. Acts 20:21 Testifying both to Jews and to Greeks repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus. 2 Corinthians 5:21 For him who knew no sin he made to be sin on our behalf; so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. OBSERVATION 🔎 In Psalm 119:9-11, what specific actions does the writer connect to staying on the path of purity? In Psalm 24:3-6, what kind of person is able to “stand in his holy place,” and what does that person receive from the Lord? In Psalm 119:36-37, what does David ask God to turn his heart and eyes away from, and what does he ask God to turn him toward? APPLICATION 👋 Where do you most need to prioritize the Word of God in your daily life right now? Paul talked about how easily distractions take over if we do not make a purposeful decision. Think honestly about what gets your first attention, your best energy, and your most consistent habits. What would “no Bible, no browsing” look like in your real life? This does not have to become a legalistic rule, but it may reveal something important about what is shaping your heart before God’s Word gets a chance to. What does it mean for you to seek God with your whole heart in this season? Paul described God as one who invites us to seek Him, call to Him, and look for Him. Consider what rhythms, prayers, or choices would help you move toward Him more intentionally. Where might you need to restrict your freedom so you can actually live more freely? The playground fence illustration reminds us that guardrails are not always punishment; sometimes they create the space where we can run with confidence. What “covenant with your eyes” or similar decision do you need to make before the moment of temptation arrives? Job made a decision ahead of time about what kind of person he wanted to be. Think about the choices you can make now so you are not deciding under pressure later. What Scripture do you need to internalize, not just read? Paul shared how memorized Scripture shaped his faith, his love for Jesus, and his love for people. Consider one passage you could meditate on, memorize, pray through, or revisit until it starts shaping you from the inside out. Is repentance becoming a regular habit in your life? Paul said we turn from sin and turn toward Jesus, then keep turning for the rest of our lives. Think about whether you respond quickly when the Holy Spirit shows you something, or whether you tend to ignore, defend, or delay. LIVE ON BELAY 🏔️ Invite someone into a simple Scripture rhythm with you this week. Ask a friend, your spouse, your kids, or someone in your Belay community to read Psalm 119:9-11 with you each day and share one thing God is highlighting. Create one practical guardrail that helps you walk the path of purity. It might be a phone boundary, a content boundary, a relationship boundary, a spending boundary, or a time boundary. Then tell someone you trust so they can encourage you. Encourage a graduate, student, young adult, or someone in transition. Send them a note, take them to coffee, or pray over them. Remind them that the path of purity is worth it, and they do not have to walk it alone. Practice quick repentance this week. When the Spirit nudges you about an attitude, action, word, or thought, pause and turn toward Jesus right away. Do not spiral into shame; turn and keep turning. Be a blessing through integrity. Choose one place where honesty, humility, or holiness could bless someone else this week, maybe at work, home, school, or in a friendship. Let your life make Jesus look good. PRAYER 🙏 Jesus, help me walk the path of purity with honesty, integrity, and a heart that honors You. Father, teach me to prioritize Your Word above the distractions that compete for my attention. Holy Spirit, show me where I need wise guardrails, and give me the humility to receive them. Lord, turn my heart away from selfish gain and my eyes away from worthless things. Jesus, I yield to Your lordship again today. Cleanse me, lead me, and help me keep turning toward You. WORSHIP 🙌 OUTLINE 📝 Main Idea: We stay on the path of purity by building our lives around God’s Word, seeking God fully, setting wise guardrails, turning from sin, and yielding to Jesus. 1) The question David asks How can a person stay on the path of purity? Purity as integrity, honesty, holiness, and character A life with nothing to hide 2) Why the path of purity matters Clean hands and a pure heart Blessing from the Lord Vindication from God our Savior 3) Prioritize the Word of God Living according to God’s Word Distraction is always available No Bible, no browsing 4) Unreservedly seek God Seek Him with all your heart God invites us to call and look for Him Those who seek Him will not be disappointed 5) Restrict your freedom Do not let me stray from Your commands Guardrails help us run freely Decide before you decide 6) Internalize the Word of God Hide God’s Word in your heart Scripture shapes desire and direction God’s Word transforms from the inside out 7) Turn and keep turning Turn from sin Turn toward Jesus Make repentance a lifelong habit 8) Yield to the lordship of Jesus We cannot stay pure in our own strength Jesus was tempted but did not sin In Him we become the righteousness of God Takeaway: Walk the path of purity by surrendering fully to Jesus and letting His Word, His Spirit, and His lordship shape your life.

Paul Durbin

Lead Pastor

May 10, 2026 • 6 Minute Read
Is There a Standard for Giving?
OVERVIEW 👀 In this message, Pastor Paul Durbin walks us through 1 Corinthians 16:1-2 and uncovers six surprisingly practical standards for giving. Drawing from Paul's words to a self-absorbed Corinthian church, he shows how generosity pulls us out of ourselves and into God's mission. With honesty, humor, and stories from his own life, Paul invites Belay'ers to see giving not as a burden, but as a beautiful habit that breaks money's grip and shapes us into people who live "on belay."View Media 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 someone handed you a "silver dollar," would you actually check to see if it was real silver, or just toss it in a drawer and forget about it? BIBLE PASSAGE(S) 📖 1 Corinthians 16:1-2, Now about the collection for the Lord's people: Do what I told the Galatian churches to do. On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made. 2 Corinthians 9:6-8, Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. OBSERVATION 🔎 Who is the offering in 1 Corinthians 16 intended for, and what does that tell us about Paul's vision for the Corinthian believers? Paul instructs giving to happen "on the first day of every week." What specific details does he give about how and when this should be done? In 2 Corinthians 9, what kind of giver does God love, and what promise follows that kind of giving? APPLICATION 👋 Paul redirected the Corinthians from their own problems to a need 1,000 miles away. Where in your own life have you been so self-focused that you've lost sight of the needs of others? It's easy for our prayers, our energy, and our money to circle around our own world. Pastor Paul shared the story of giving away his guitar money so his friend could buy a bass. When was the last time giving cost you something you actually wanted? Sometimes the most formative giving moments aren't the easy ones. If giving is a normal practice for followers of Jesus, why do you think it's the one church practice people push back on most? Jesus warned that we can't serve both God and money—so our resistance often reveals something deeper about who has our heart. Paul says to give on the first day of the week, before we know what's coming. How does your current giving rhythm compare to that? Many of us wait until the end of the month to see what's "left over," which often means little or nothing is left. Have you ever sat down and made an actual plan for your generosity—a budget for giving? Without a plan, giving tends to be reactive instead of intentional, and we miss the joy of being ready when needs arise. Pastor Paul described how he and Patty consider 20% of their income as "not theirs"—designated for God, for others, and for blessing kids. What percentage feels honest for where you are right now, and what would it look like to grow from there? This isn't about hitting a number—it's about training your heart. What would it look like for you to have "margin" in your finances so you could give freely when the Spirit prompts you? Margin is what turns generosity from a struggle into a joy. LIVE ON BELAY 🏔️ Set up a zero-based budget this week (using an app or just a notebook) and give every dollar a job—including a line item for generosity. Identify one missional need outside your immediate circle—a missionary, a ministry, a neighbor in another country—and give toward it this month. Make giving the first line in your budget instead of the last. Try it for 30 days and see what shifts in your heart. Surprise someone with a gift this week—a meal, a tank of gas, a coffee, an unexpected check—and don't tell anyone you did it. Talk with your spouse, a roommate, or a trusted Belay'er about your giving plan. Generosity grows best in community. PRAYER 🙏 Ask God to show you any way money has become your master instead of your servant. Pray for a missional vision—eyes that see needs beyond your own household and scope. Ask the Spirit to help you trust Him with the first of your income, not just the leftovers. Pray for joy in giving, that it would become a habit you look forward to instead of one you avoid. Pray that Belay would continue to be a church marked by generosity, margin, and missional giving. WORSHIP 🙌 OUTLINE 📝 Main Idea: God's Word gives followers of Jesus a clear standard for generosity—six simple practices found in just two verses. Text: 1 Corinthians 16:1-2 1) Giving is missional a. A vision for needs beyond our own scope b. Paul points Corinth toward Jerusalem, a thousand miles away 2) Giving is normal a. It's simply what the church does, like prayer and worship b. Resistance to giving reveals who our true master is (Luke 16) 3) Giving happens first a. Give before you know what the week holds b. Abel's firstborn vs. Cain's "in the course of time" 4) Giving is habitual a. Not when we feel like it, but a regular rhythm b. Like exercise, food, and sleep—built into our lives 5) Giving is proportionate a. "In keeping with your income"—no set price tag b. Examples from Jacob (a tenth) to the early church (everything) 6) Giving creates margin a. A plan creates freedom to give when needs arise b. True for individuals and for Belay as a church Takeaway: Build a plan for generosity, and let God shape you into a cheerful, missional giver.

Paul Durbin

Lead Pastor