Small Group Study: “Purpose over Praise” — Living Out Colossians 3:23

“And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.” — Colossians 3:23 (KJV)

Duration

45–60 minutes

Opening Prayer (5 minutes)

Invite God into the conversation. Thank Him for the opportunity to gather and grow. Ask for open hearts and insights into what it means to honor Him through daily tasks.

Icebreaker (10 minutes)

Question: “What’s one task or chore you do regularly that feels totally mundane or frustrating?” Share responses briefly—this sets the stage for the study.

Bible Exploration (15 minutes)

Read aloud: Colossians 3:22–24 for added context.

Discussion Prompts:

• What does “do it heartily” mean in our everyday lives?
• Who are the “men” we sometimes work to please? How does that affect our attitude?
• How does knowing we work for God change how we approach our tasks—big and small?

Cross-Reference: Look at Ecclesiastes 9:10 and 1 Corinthians 10:31. How do these verses echo the same theme?

Real-Life Application (15 minutes)

Prompt: “Think about your week—school, work, parenting, errands. Where can you apply this verse in a practical way?”

Challenge: Choose one daily task this week to intentionally dedicate to God. Write it down and share next time you meet.

Group Activity (Optional, 10 minutes)

Title: “Sanctifying the Ordinary” Provide sticky notes and pens. Have each member write one task they often dread (e.g. laundry, emails, commutes). Then, write how it could glorify God. Post on a wall or board.

Wrap-Up & Prayer (5 minutes)

Pray for each member’s week ahead—that their work, no matter how ordinary, would be infused with purpose and offered as worship.

Bonus: Group Reflection Journal

Encourage members to keep a simple journal this week noting moments when they remembered Colossians 3:23 in action.