A Spiritual Heart

Icebreaker:

What’s the most memorable conversation you’ve ever had? What made it so special?

Read Aloud:

Have someone read Matthew 6:5–18 aloud to the group.

When You Pray (Matthew 6:5–8)

• What contrast does Jesus draw between the prayers of hypocrites and the way we are called to pray?

• Why do you think Jesus emphasizes praying in secret?

• If the Father already knows what we need (v. 8), what is the purpose of prayer?

Pray Then Like This (Matthew 6:9–14)

• What specific requests are included in the Lord’s Prayer?

• How would you put each of those requests into your own words?

• How does this prayer address heart-level issues that we all face?

• Why do you think Jesus places such strong emphasis on forgiving others?

When You Fast (Matthew 6:15–18)

• Jesus assumes that His followers will fast. What has been your personal experience with fasting?

• What similarities do you notice between Jesus' instructions for fasting (vv. 15–18) and His earlier instructions for giving (vv. 2–4) and praying (vv. 5–8)?

• How are these spiritual disciplines (giving, praying, fasting) connected?

• What is one thing you could fast from this week to help you obey Jesus' teaching?

• How might fasting help you grow spiritually?

Application & Prayer Time:

The authentic heart from Week 1 and the spiritual heart from Week 2 go hand in hand.

• How has the Holy Spirit been challenging you so far through this study?

• How are you responding to His prompting?

Break into smaller groups (2–3 people) for prayer:

• Pray for each other to grow in giving, praying, and fasting this week.

• Pray that God would reveal Himself powerfully to your group through this study.

• Pray for hearts that are authentic and spiritually alive.

Close your time by praying the Lord’s Prayer (Matt 6:9-13) together.