Read Acts 1:4-14

It seems like people are always coming in and out of our lives. Dealing with these transitions can be difficult. Our issue isn’t the “welcome”, our challenge is the “goodbye.” How can we have healthy goodbyes?

1. Embrace the season, not just the stay. Many friendships are seasonal, and it’s important to appreciate people for the specific time they are in our lives. It’s okay to feel sad and grieve when a friend moves away, but it’s also important to stay connected to community, stay in touch with the person, and create new connections.

2. Recognize the purpose, not just the person. Instead of focusing on what a person can do for you, let’s shift our focus to what God is teaching you through that person. This perspective helps us see God’s purpose in all relationships and prevents bitterness when they end.

3. Identify with Christ, not just your connections. While connecting with others is important, your identity should be rooted in Christ. This provides a firm foundation so you can be confident you are never alone, even when people come and go from your life. Remember, friendships may be seasonal, our relationship with God is eternal.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1. English Worship Jogja is a “river, not a lake.” Do you resonate with this description based on your own experience with this community? How does this perspective affect the way you approach new friendships?
2. Good goodbyes take time to grieve. What are some healthy ways you have processed sadness, loneliness, or anger when a close friend has moved away?
3. Can you think of a past relationship where you now see a specific purpose God had for it, even if the friendship was for a season?
4. There’s a concern that some people may get connected to community but not to Christ. How can we, as a community, make sure we are helping people find their identity in Christ rather than just in their social circle?
5. Jesus promised the disciples the presence of the Holy Spirit before He left. How does knowing that the Holy Spirit is with you help you feel secure and not alone when you experience relational changes and goodbyes?

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