Part 1: Overcoming The Fear Of Failure In Your Marriage

Conversation starter. Start talking to your group about the series topic.

Describe your worst date ever.
Rights(expectations)—vs—Responsibilities How has focusing on your rights harmed your relationship or focusing on your responsibilities helped?
Contemplate. Ask questions to get your group thinking.

What does Philippians 2:1-11 tell us about how to live in our relationships?
Do you spend time with your spouse in Bible study and prayer? How has it effected your relationship? If single, will your ideal spouse study and pray with you?
Contribute. Ask questions that create openness in your group.

Which of the principles in Philippians 2:1-5 do you struggle to show in your relationships? Is it encouragement? Comfort? Participation? Affection and sympathy?
How often do you pray for or with your spouse, future spouse, or for a future spouse?
How are you fighting for your marriage or future marriage?
Cry out to God. Pray intensely for your group on the topic.

Father, give us the strength to be like Jesus and to see like Jesus as we take on His character. Teach us to be more encouraging, comforting and loving as we participate with affection and sympathy in our relationships. Amen

Commit to change. What’s a new area to grow with the Lord? 

What is one new character quality you will use this week in your relationships from these verses?
Commit to reading these verses with your spouse, if possible, and talk about personal failures in these areas and your spouse's successes.