Dust and Diamonds, “First Things First”
The following content can be used as a guide for TFH Groups.
The heart of a TFH Group is to care for people and carry the culture of The Father’s House.
You don’t have to follow the guide like a script! Use discernment from the Holy Spirit as you lead your group discussion. If you notice that someone in your group needs additional care or support that’s beyond your capacity, please let a pastor know.
ICEBREAKER QUESTION OPTION:
What food are you unreasonably loyal to?
SERIES: Dust and Diamonds
TITLE: Part 3 - “First Things First”
SPEAKER: Pastor Doug Garasic
Scriptures—
1 Corinthians 16:1-2; Malachi 3:8-10
Summary—
Pastor Doug calls us from 1 Corinthians 16 to examine where we place our trust and challenges us to put God first in our week, our day, and our finances. He emphasizes that giving is personal and proportional, with the tithe as a biblical guide. Like a child stuck in a candy jar, we often cling to what we have and miss what God wants to give. The true issue isn’t money but trust. When we put God first, we move from financial transaction to spiritual transformation and step into eternal impact rather than temporary comfort.
Key Takeaways—
Where we place our trust is really what we worship in our life
Three principles of biblical giving: Priority (first day of the week), Personal (each person), and Percentage (proportional/tithe)
Giving should be transformational, not transactional
Letting go of what we tightly hold allows God to pour out His blessings into our hands
When we put God first, all other things fall into their proper place or drop out of our lives
Discussion Questions—
Pastor Doug suggests that where we place our 'first' reveals where we truly place our trust. What currently receives the 'first' of your time, talent, and treasure?
What practical barriers keep you from giving consistently on purpose rather than as an afterthought?
How does seeing generosity as a personal act of worship change the way you approach giving?
Who might be impacted by your generosity in the future, even if you never meet them?
The candy jar illustration shows how holding tightly prevents us from receiving God's blessings. What are you currently holding onto that God might be asking you to release?
What fears or doubts make it difficult to believe that you’ll never come second by putting God first?
Practical Application—
Give God the first hour of your day through Scripture, prayer, and journaling. Start small if needed, but be intentional.
Calculate your tithe and take a real step toward giving consistently. If you already tithe, ask God where He is inviting you to stretch.
Release something you’ve been clinging to and trust God with it. Then take one action that invests in future generations for the sake of the Gospel.
Closing Prayer—
Close your session by praying for trust and courage in God’s provision. Pray for spiritual transformation, not just religious transactions. Lastly, pray for the impact of your giving on future generations.
