Series Resources

sermon-based study guide

This guide is designed to guide a group discussion around the weekend sermon. You can also use this as an individual, but we highly recommend finding a friend and inviting them to discuss with you. Menlo Church has Life Groups meeting in-person and online using these guides. We’d love to help you find a group.
What you will find in this guide: A discussion guide for groups and individuals. If you are using this as an individual be sure to engage with each question in a journal or simply in your mind as you prayerfully consider what you heard in the sermon and seek to discover what God is inviting you to know and do.

Spiritual Formation Resource: Counter-Formation

Spiritual Formation Resources

Creating Space for God in a Distracted World

We live in a culture that constantly competes for our attention—notifications, endless to-do lists, and the pressure to always be "on." Spiritual formation requires intentionality: slowing down, refocusing, and making space for God in our daily lives. Below are three simple but powerful practices to help you cultivate a deeper, more present faith.

Try a “Distraction Detox”

What to Do: Choose one habit to limit this week—whether it’s reducing social media, cutting back on excessive news, or avoiding multitasking. Instead, use that time to be still, pray, or engage with Scripture.

Why It Matters: Constant distractions shape our minds and hearts more than we realize. By stepping away, even briefly, we become more aware of how much our attention is influenced by the world and how much we need to be shaped by Christ instead.

Reflection Questions:

  • What distraction did you limit, and how did it feel?
  • Did you notice any shifts in your focus, mood, or ability to connect with God?
  • How might you create more distraction-free moments moving forward?

Memorize Colossians 3:12-14

"Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience... And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony."

What to Do: Commit this passage to memory. Write it down, say it out loud, or set it as a daily reminder. Let these words shape how you interact with others throughout the week.

Why It Matters: The world forms us by default—but Scripture transforms us by intention. Memorizing God’s Word plants His truth deep within us, helping us respond to life with the heart of Christ.

Reflection Questions:

  • Which word or phrase in this passage speaks to you most?
  • How does this verse challenge you in your daily interactions?
  • What would it look like to “put on” these qualities in a difficult situation?

Journal About Your Unhurried Moments

What to Do: At the end of the week, take time to reflect on moments when you felt most present—with God, with loved ones, or even with yourself. Write about what made those moments meaningful.

Why It Matters: Jesus lived with an unhurried presence, fully engaged with those around Him. When we slow down and reflect, we begin to recognize how God is moving in our everyday lives.

Reflection Questions:

  • When did you feel most at peace or connected to God this week?
  • What helped you slow down and be fully present?
  • How can you create more space for stillness and awareness in your daily routine?

Next Steps

  • Set a Goal: Pick one of these practices to focus on this week.
  • Invite a Friend: Share what you’re learning with someone else.
  • Stay Intentional: Keep track of how these small shifts impact your faith and daily life.

Spiritual formation isn’t about doing more—it’s about making room for what truly matters. What’s one step you can take today?