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CHA O
Z WN
EXPERIENCE
PURSUE YOUR
PASSION
DEFINE YOUR
VISION
LIVE YOUR LIFE ON
PURPOSE
Welcome to the Chazown Experience...
Congratulations on your decision to discover your Chazown! Did you know that decision already sets you apart?
Most people stumble halfheartedly through life just existing, hoping tomorrow will be better than today. But you and
I were made for so much more!
Before you were born, God knew you. He knew what He wanted your life to be like. He had a purpose in mind for
you, even before you came to be. Discovering God’s vision and purpose for your life and designing a plan of action
for that purpose is what The Chazown Experience is about.
DO I HAVE TO READ THE BOOK CHAZOWN BEFORE I BEGIN THE CHAZOWN EXPERIENCE?
It is not necessary, although you may certainly choose to do so. The Chazown book offers a deeper look at
the concepts you will be exploring within the small group setting. Those participants who have read the book
beforehand or who engage in the suggested reading passages noted in each section will have additional insight as
they complete this experience.
IS THE CHAZOWN EXPERIENCE GOING TO REQUIRE A LOT OF TIME DURING THE WEEK?
Not at all. The Chazown Experience for small groups was designed to allow personal reflection each week without
excessive homework. You will notice that each session ends with an On Your Own list. Completing these items
before the next group session will help ensure you get the very most out of your Chazown Experience.
Where there is no Chazown – no dream, no revelation, no vision, no sense of our created purpose, we perish.
• Where there is no vision for a Godly family, 50% or more of marriages end in divorce.
• Where there is no vision for a healthy life, there will be ongoing physical struggle.
• Where there is no vision for financial freedom, people live paycheck to paycheck.
• Where there is no vision for a growing, lifelong, personal relationship with God, people will become lukewarm.
• Where there is no vision for meaningful work, people just exist.
If money was no object, what would you do with the rest of your life?
God created you with a divine Chazown. He knew you and formed you. He numbered the days of your life. You were
planted at this moment in history because it is at this moment that you can best glorify God with your gifts, talents,
and passions.
The Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost. Luke 19:10 NIV
No one takes [my life] from me, but I lay it down of my own accord...This command I received from my
Father. John 10:18 NIV
I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:10 NIV
How can we actively and prayerfully seek to find God’s Chazown for our lives? Through this
experience, we will examine three areas of your life. We’ll call them The Three Circles.
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THE THREE CIRCLES:
Suggested Reading… You can learn more about finding your Chazown by reading pages 3 thru 24 in the
book Chazown.
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called
according to his purpose. Romans 8:28 NIV
For we cannot oppose the truth, but must always stand for the truth. 2 Corinthians 13:8 NLT
We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. Romans 12:6 NIV
Nehemiah Administration
Moses Leadership
Abraham Faith
Barnabas Encouragement
CORE
Matthew Hospitality
Dorcas Serving
VALUES
CHAZOWN
C
SPIRITUAL PAST
GIFTS EXPERIENCES
These Three Circles reveal a great deal about the real you, and about the destiny God had in mind when He made
you. Where your Three Circles overlap, there lies your Chazown!
04
Once we have examined the Three Circles, we will look at five major areas of life that, when working as they should,
can help put your Chazown within your reach. We will call these five important life areas The Five Spokes. It’s
important to stay strong in each of these five areas. When even one of the major areas of life is not functioning the
way it should, all of life can break down. We will talk about each of these spokes in more depth later.
GOD
• Our Relationship with God WORK
TIO TALK IT OVER
PEOPLE Share what you expect or hope to
• Our Relationships with People
gain from The Chazown Experience
• Financial Life with those in your group.
FIN
H
• Physical Life
AN
HEALT
CES
• Work Life
Think of The Five Spokes just like the spokes of a wheel. When all five spokes are in place and functioning properly,
they will support and actually carry you forward toward your Chazown, or life purpose. But when even one spoke is
not where it should be, everything else can get off balance and fall apart.
We can finish strong if we keep the spokes tight. When this does not happen, life becomes unstable, and our
Chazown becomes out of reach. In our final sessions, we’ll look at how to take the Next Steps necessary to keep
your spokes intact so you can live out your Chazown.
Finally, we will set specific, measurable goals in the key spokes or areas that are most in need of attention.
A PROMISE TO YOU:
You will hear from God. His Spirit will direct you. You will no longer wander around hoping for an accidentally better
life. You will be empowered to live life on purpose.
Anyone can have the rich and meaningful life that God has intended for them. That’s what God wants for you. His
vision for your life is bigger and more important than you could ever imagine!
I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has
given me... Acts 20:24 NIV
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There is no promise that this journey will be easy. It may not be. But if you will open your heart and seek God, you
will hear from Him. He will motivate you. He will show you Next Steps. He will empower and equip you.
Your Chazown will propel you forward into the vision for which you were created. When everyone else just ends up
somewhere, you can end up somewhere on purpose. The Chazown Experience will show you how!
Suggested Reading… You can learn more about finding your Chazown by reading pages 3 thru 24 in the
book Chazown.
06
SESSION 2: LEARNING FROM PAST EXPERIENCES
The first area we’re going to explore to help you discover your Chazown is your
past experiences. These are events or seasons in your life that God has given you
TIO TALK IT OVER
How could finding your Chazown
to prepare to fulfill His future vision.
change the way you live the rest of
your life? How might living out your
Your past experiences can be a key to unlocking your Chazown! Chazown impact those around you?
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called
according to His purpose. Romans 8:28 NIV
“All things” includes all things – the good, the not so good, the things you wish had never happened, even
the things you haven’t thought about for years.
To help you begin to see God’s Chazown in your past experiences, you are going to create something unique: a
personal timeline.
Your timeline is a big-picture overview of your past that will help you begin to see God’s Chazown for your life.
As you create your timeline, you will do three things:
1. Identify ______________, events and ______________________ that have impacted your life in a significant way.
3. Clarify the different ________________ and ________________ God has shown you as you look at your past.
Don’t be afraid of the difficult and painful events. It is often out of pain that God’s Chazown can
be born!
07
Look at your past as a key to your Chazown, and remember – you won’t just end up somewhere, you’ll end up
somewhere ______ ____________________!
08
Creating a Personal Timeline
These are abbreviated instructions. For more complete instructions on how to create a personal timeline, you may
turn to appendix 1 at the back of this participant guide. You may also complete your personal timeline online at
www.chazown.com.
STEP ONE:
Identify the people, events, and circumstances that have most affected your life. Write them
down on the yellow sticky notes, using a separate note for each one.
STEP TWO:
Put things in order. Organize your sticky notes chronologically. Place your earliest sticky note in the top left
corner, leaving room for a row of sticky notes across the top margin of your board. Place your second earliest sticky
note below the first note. Continue to place your notes on the board, proceeding in a vertical row down the left side
until you near the bottom. Leave enough margin for a row of sticky notes across the bottom, and return to the top of
your board. Place your next sticky note next to your first yellow note in the top left corner. Continue the process in
vertical rows until all of your sticky notes are placed in chronological order.
STEP THREE:
Call it like it was. Take a moment and look at all of the yellow sticky notes on your board. Ask yourself which of
them were painful or hurtful when you experienced them. As you identify those that were difficult, transfer what you
wrote on the original yellow note to a pink sticky note and discard the yellow one.
STEP FOUR:
Organize your timeline into chapters. Look at the notes assembled on your poster board. Identify any key
segments, or “chapters” of your life journey that begin to emerge. Try to identify no fewer than three and no more
than six chapters. As you identify these chapters, you may need to move your sticky notes around some to reflect
those chapters.
Using the blue sticky notes, write down titles for the chapters you have identified and place them along the top
margin of your poster board above the chapter they represent.
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STEP FIVE:
Clarify the turning points and major lessons. A turning point is an event, experience, or encounter
that altered your life. Turning points are characterized by the fact that in some way, life was not the same after the
experience. God deposits key insights and develops character in us at the turning points of life. Identifying them will
help you see the important lessons you’ve learned along the way.
As you identify these turning points, boldly write “TP” on the top of those sticky notes.
Using purple sticky notes, write down the major lessons and themes that emerge through your life chapters and
turning points. You may want to use the following questions as a guide:
• What was God trying to teach me during this chapter or turning point of my life?
• What should I remember as I move forward?
• What abilities or insights has God deposited into my life as a result of this experience?
• In what ways can the skills or insights God gave me through this experience impact my future?
• What character traits were developed in me as a result?
• What character traits have I come to value most in others?
• Are there any unique experiences or insights I have gained?
• What are some of the ways God has used me?
• Did this experience reveal anything to me about what God is like?
PAST
EXPERIENCES
For additional help and resources related to creating a personal timeline and how
God shapes and develops each of our lives for a unique contribution, contact Leader
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SESSION 3: CLARIFYING YOUR CORE VALUES
AND SPIRITUAL GIFTS
Where there is no vision, the people perish. Proverbs 29:18 KJV
TIO TALK IT OVER
Describe the lessons and themes that
emerged through looking at your past
experiences. (These are the items written
on purple sticky notes.)
When God made you, He planted within you certain things you value deeply. They’re hardwired
into your heart. Through your life experiences, God has begun to make them clear to you. These are the things you would
be willing to die for. They explain how you come by your personal priorities. These things are your core values.
STEP one:
To identify your core values, it may help to ask yourself three questions:
3. What does your personal _________________ tell you about your core values?
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STEP two:
Circle the core values that may apply to you. Add others that come to mind if they are not listed here.
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STEP three:
Narrow it down. Now that you have circled the values that apply to you, pray and ask God to guide you as you
narrow this list down even further.
• Can you see how your past experiences relate to each of these values?
• Is there anything missing?
• Which of these values have actually been displayed in the last 90 days?
• Would the people closest to you recognize these as your core values?
Try to focus your list to between five and ten core values and list them in the circle below:
Suggested Reading… You can learn more about core values and spiritual gifts by reading pages 25 thru 51 in
the book Chazown.
CORE
VALUES
Choose one core value that is most evident in your life. Write a description of this core value:
We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. Romans 12:6 NIV
These gifts were given to us by God, but they are not for us. They are to be used to:
Your spiritual gifts are especially chosen for the Chazown to which God is calling you.
One way to identify your spiritual gifts is to complete a spiritual gifts assessment. You can find one at
www.chazown.com/spiritualgifts, or you can use the assessment found in Appendix 2 at the back of
this participant guide. Once you have taken the assessment, list the results here:
What are you ____________ at? What are the things that come easily to you? The answers to these questions can
help you focus in and identify your spiritual gifts and talents!
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Finally, look at the results of your spiritual gifts assessment
and the things you are especially good at. Then prayerfully ask
God to help you identify what among these things are your
SPIRITUAL
GIFTS
Your values and gifts are pointing toward your Chazown – the very reason you are here!
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Bringing the THREE circles together:
Congratulations! You have examined your past experiences. You have identified your
core values and your spiritual gifts. Now look carefully at the Three Circles you have just identified for your
life. You may be wondering how these three different areas relate to each other.
Are you ready? Bring all Three Circles together by listing the lessons and themes from your personal timeline, your
core values, and your spiritual gifts in the circles below:
CORE
VALUES
CHAZOWN
SPIRITUAL PAST
GIFTS EXPERIENCES
Now, find the place where they converge. In that place where all dimensions are at full strength, where your Three
Circles overlap, that is where you find your Chazown!
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Session 4: Your Purpose Statement:
Naming Your Chazown
Without a vision, the people perish. Proverbs 29:18 KJV TIO TALK IT OVER
When you think of the place where your
Three Circles converge, what immediately
Now that you have examined your past experiences and identified
comes to mind?
your core values and spiritual gifts, explore these questions:
The place where your past experiences, core values and spiritual gifts overlap is the
greatest key to your Chazown.
When you look at that powerful place where the Three Circles of your life overlap, do you see a picture taking
shape? Do possibilities for your purpose immediately come to mind? If so, it’s time to put your Chazown into a
purpose statement.
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A purpose statement is a one-sentence version of God’s Chazown for your life, expressed in words that greatly
motivate you to action.
Think about one action-focused sentence, a purpose statement that God will use to propel you forward for the rest
of your life.
God has created me with a dream for my life, and I think it might be…
3. What have my past experiences, both good and bad, shown me about myself and my purpose in life?
4. What do my past experiences, core values, and spiritual gifts have in common?
6. What consequence does God most want to accomplish through that action?
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Some examples of purpose statements are:
• To passionately encourage others to recognize the gifts that God has given them, to believe in themselves, and to
spread the overflowing joy that I receive from Christ’s love for me.
• To develop the talents of my coworkers to their fullest extent by identifying and funding their developmental needs,
while modeling the life of Christ and a commitment to raising the moral and ethical standards of the company and
our clients.
Keep in mind…
When God gives you His Chazown, it will often be bigger than you can imagine and impossible for you to do
on your own.
Now, it’s your turn! Write YOUR purpose statement in your own words. Make it your prayer, your goal, and
your thanksgiving!
It doesn’t have to be perfect right now. This is not a test and you are not being graded on this assignment! Just
begin to write, knowing that your purpose statement will probably be changed and refined as you put it into words.
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TIO TALK IT OVER
Go ahead, say it! Put your purpose statement into words. Take a deep breath, and finish this sentence:
“God has created me with a dream for my life, and I think it might be...
Suggested Reading… You can learn more about writing a purpose statement on pages 63 thru 96 in the
book Chazown.
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LIVING LIFE ON PURPOSE...
Now that you have identified your Chazown, or purpose statement, use these pages to jot down ideas on how you
can begin living your life on purpose. Don’t limit yourself to small thinking. Remember, God’s Chazown for your life is
often bigger than you can imagine!
Ask yourself...when it comes to living your Chazown, where do you hope to be...
When you imagine the end of your life, what are your highest goals or hopes concerning your Chazown, or life purpose?
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Next, ask yourself:
1. What steps can I take to begin moving toward God’s Chazown for my life? (Don’t edit yourself here. Brainstorm!
Write down everything that comes to mind.)
2. What one or two steps can I take right now to begin moving toward God’s Chazown for my life?
Step one:
Step two:
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Session 5: Living Your Chazown
TIO TALK IT OVER
Share your purpose statement with the group. It may still be evolving, and that is okay. Share as much as
you know at this moment.
When even one of the major areas of life is not functioning the way God intended, all of
life can break down.
There are five important spokes, or life areas, where you can live out your Chazown. If your Chazown does not shape
each of these five areas, your life will be unstable.
AN
HEALT
CES
I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because
you are lukewarm-neither hot nor cold-I am about to spit you out of my mouth. Revelation 3:15-16 NIV
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Some ways to experience God more in your daily life are:
How would a strong relationship with God impact your ability to live out your Chazown?
How would neglecting your relationship with God impact your ability to live out your Chazown?
God’s greatest command is to love Him. His second greatest is to love His people. Everything is about relationships,
and every aspect of your Chazown will be strengthened and blessed by the right relationships.
1. What relationship needs to be ____________________? God wants us to do life together, in teams. We all
need others for support, encouragement, and accountability. Who is missing for you? You have to look for these
relationships. Don’t wait for them to come to you!
2. What relationship needs to be ________________________? Is there a priority relationship in your life that is not
where it is supposed to be?
NS NEXT STEPS
For “Next Steps” to consider in your relationships
with others, see page 04 of Appendix 3 in the back
of your participant guide!
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3. What relationship needs to be _______________________? Is there a relationship that is broken, damaged, and not
where it should be? Restoration is not always easy, but it is worth it. The pain of an unresolved relationship is greater
than the pain of confrontation.
4. What relationship needs to be ________________________? There may be times when you have to distance
yourself from bad company.
Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.” 1 Corinthians 15:33 NIV
How would strong relationships impact your ability to live out your Chazown?
How would neglecting your relationships impact your ability to live out your Chazown?
Your finances deeply impact your ability to live out your Chazown.
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2. What is your financial _____________?
How do you think your financial life may relate to your Chazown?
How would a strong financial life impact your ability to live out your Chazown?
How would neglecting your financial life impact your ability to live out your Chazown?
Are you honoring God with the temple of the Holy Spirit? Ask yourself:
1. How are you feeding your body? How can you feed your body in a better way?
2. How are you exercising your body? How can you exercise more consistently and effectively?
3. How well do you rest your body? What steps can you take to ensure your body gets the quality rest it needs?
4. Are there any addictions you need to confess to God? How can you seek accountability for your addictions?
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Many people are short-sighted when it comes to their health!
• Suntan today = Skin cancer tomorrow
• Super-size meal today = Super-size belly tomorrow
• Beer today = Beer belly tomorrow
• Smoking today = Lung cancer tomorrow
NS NEXT STEPS
For “Next Steps” to consider in your
physical life, see page 06 of Appendix 3 in
A healthy body will move and equip you to
the back of your participant guide!
live out God’s Chazown for your life!
How do you think your physical life may relate to your Chazown?
How would a strong physical life impact your ability to live out your Chazown?
How would neglecting your physical life impact your ability to live out your Chazown?
The Lie:
A job is simply a way to pay the bills.
The Reality:
Your job can be a reflection of your deepest Chazown! If not, it still can and should offer you the freedom to
pursue your Chazown!
Before you were ever born, God had His divine assignments for you. Your gifts, values and experiences all
point to that assignment!
For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance
for us to do. Ephesians 2:10 NIV
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men... Colossians 3:23 NIV
How would a strong work life impact your ability to live out your Chazown?
How would neglecting your work life impact your ability to live out your Chazown?
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THOUGHTS ON THE FIVE SPOKES...
If you need to work on all Five Spokes, don’t panic, and don’t try to work on all five at once!
1. Choose the one or two spokes that need the most work.
2. Take step after achievable step.
One day, we will all reach the end of our life in one of two ways:
1. With regret, saying “I could have, I should have, I wish I would have,” or
2. With no regret, having sought God’s Chazown in each of the Five Spokes - or major areas -of our lives.
Seek God’s Chazown, and instead of just ending up somewhere, you will end up somewhere, without regret,
on purpose!
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SESSION 6: CREATING A 100-DAY PLAN
TIO TALK IT OVER
Share the 1 or 2 Next Steps you have identified to begin moving toward your
Chazown (found at the bottom of page 22 of your participant guide.)
Congratulations! You have made significant progress. Let’s review the road we’ve traveled in The Chazown
Experience so far and celebrate what God has shown us.
The big question: Will you live your life in a way that glorifies God, or will you end up somewhere
looking back with regrets because you lived a purposeless life?
You’ve decided an ________________ _______________ is not for you. You’ve committed to live life on purpose.
You’ve explored your ______________ __________________ – your past experiences, core values and spiritual gifts.
You’ve decided to live ______________ ________________ to God, strengthening five priority areas, or
“_________________.”
The RIGHT choice is to seek God as you pursue your Chazown. If you do, He will speak
clearly to you as you move toward His purpose for your life!
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Your 100-Day Plan...
SMART GOALS
Choose which 1-2 spokes you will focus on first, then set 1-2 goals for each spoke. Each of your goals should be SMART:
Be sure to write down your specific goals. When you do, it will bring excitement, motivation, and accountability to you
as you move toward God’s Chazown for your life!
Step 2:
Now, take a moment and review The Five Spokes. Just like the spokes of a wheel, these five areas will propel you forward
toward your Chazown. With these spokes in place, you will finish strong and live your Chazown, or life purpose.
Next, identify the 1-2 spokes you have chosen to focus on first. Then, set 1-2 goals for each of those spokes. Don’t
skip this step! Having all five key areas or spokes of your life in place can make all the difference and help move
you toward your Chazown when it might otherwise stay out of reach.
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Spoke 1:
Goal 1:
TIO TALK IT OVER
Goal 2: Share the goals you have set for each of your
spoke areas of focus along with your plans for
accountability in each of these areas.
Spoke 2:
Goal 1:
Goal 2:
Spoke 2: (optional)__________________________________________
My first choice for an accountability partner in this area is ________________________________________________.
I will invite this person to be my accountability partner by_________ /_________ /_________. (date)
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Making the commitment
If you’re ready to rise to the challenge, pray this prayer and sign it as your contractual commitment to God.
Dear God,
I commit to prayerfully find someone to hold me accountable to fulfill Your Chazown for my life, including my relation-
ship with You, my relationships with other people, my physical life, my financial life, and my life’s work. Please lead
me to the right people. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Signed:_________________________________________________
Congratulations! You have a Chazown, or vision! You will not perish! You WILL end up somewhere...on purpose!
You’ve dreamed your dreams. You’ve begun to seek God and His Chazown. You’re learning to better understand
your unique design and purpose. You’ve set some worthy goals. You’ve chosen (or will choose) someone to go with
you on the journey, to help you stay on the path.
You’ve come a long way! Great job! But your story is only beginning.
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MY NEXT CHAPTER...
A 100-day planning journal
34
MY NEXT CHAPTER...
A 100-day planning journal
35
MY NEXT CHAPTER...
A 100-day planning journal
36
Appendix 1 - Creating a Personal Timeline
(EXPANDED INSTRUCTIONS)
TO CREATE YOUR TIMELINE, YOU WILL NEED:
STEP ONE:
Identify the people, events, and circumstances that have most affected your life.
Using your yellow sticky notes, begin to write down the key people, events and circumstances that
have shaped your life up to this point. Use a separate sticky note for each one. Include both good and
difficult moments.
As you complete this step, it is important to “brainstorm” and allow your mind to roam freely. Remember, the
only rule of brainstorming is that there are no wrong answers! As soon as a name, an important event, or a life
circumstance comes to mind, write a one or two word name or description down on a sticky note. Peel it off, place it
on the table you are working on, and write another. (Don’t place them on the board yet). By the end of this exercise,
you should have 20-30 sticky notes providing a cross-section of the significant details of your life story.
• The key people who influenced and shaped your life may include friends, family members, classmates, work
associates, peers, mentors, pastors, your spouse, teachers, church friends and acquaintances, and others.
• The events that have impacted your life may include graduation, awards, projects you worked on, jobs you’ve held,
changes in the community, global events that had a personal impact on you, job loss, and other defining moments.
• The significant circumstances that have affected your life direction may include places you lived, career demands
of your parents, early childhood experiences, schools you attended, ministries you were involved in, and retreats you
experienced - among other things.
STEP TWO:
Put things in order.
Next, you will organize your sticky notes chronologically.
Next, place a sticky note at the very top and the very bottom of the board and mark both with a big “X.” The
purpose of these “X” notes is to remind you that when you place your sticky notes on your board, you should leave
a margin across the top and the bottom that is the width of one sticky note. To do this, you will need to place your
yellow and pink notes in the space between these two “X” notes.
APPENDIX 1 01
Organize your sticky notes chronologically. Place your earliest sticky note in the top left corner (remembering to
leave room for the margin across the top of your board). Place your second earliest sticky note below the first note.
Continue to place your notes on the board, proceeding in a vertical row down the left side until you reach the bottom
(remembering to leave room for the margin across the bottom). Return to the top of your board and continue the
process in rows until all of your sticky notes are placed in chronological order.
STEP THREE:
Call it like it was.
Once you have finished, take a moment and look at all of the sticky notes on your board. Ask yourself which of them
were painful or hurtful when you experienced them. As you identify those that were difficult, transfer what you wrote
on the original yellow note to a pink sticky note and discard the yellow one.
You may wonder why your most difficult experiences are being singled out during this exercise. The act of changing
the color of the sticky note for the difficult or hurtful experiences allows you to consciously say to yourself, “this one
was difficult... that one hurt.” God does some of his deepest work through some of our most difficult moments in
life. It is important to acknowledge those times and seasons.
STEP FOUR:
Organize your timeline into chapters.
Now take several moments and look at the notes assembled on your board. As you do, you will probably see key
segments, or “chapters” of your life journey begin to emerge. Try to identify no fewer than three and no more than six
chapters. As you identify these chapters, you may need to move your sticky notes around some to reflect those chapters.
Using the blue sticky notes, write down titles for the chapters you have identified and place them along the top
margin of your poster board above the chapter they represent. Your chapter titles should reflect your thoughts and
feelings about what was occurring in your life during that chapter. Feel free to be creative as you choose titles that
reflect you. Some participants have used popular movie titles, while others have chosen names that center around a
favorite hobby or sport. You may also choose terms that may seem random or meaningless to someone else, but that
are personally very significant. The important thing is to choose titles that mean something to you. It’s your life story!
APPENDIX 1 02
STEP FIVE:
Clarify the turning points and major lessons.
Next, you will identify the “turning points” in your timeline. A turning point is an event, experience, or encounter that
altered your life. It is a defining moment in your journey when:
Turning points are characterized by the fact that in some way, life was not the same after the experience. God
deposits key insights and develops character in us at the turning points of life. Identifying them will help you see the
important lessons you’ve learned along the way.
Take several moments and examine your timeline again, looking for 6-8 turning points; the events, experiences and
encounters that have altered your life in important ways. Once you have identified them, boldly write “TP” on the top
of those sticky notes.
Using purple sticky notes, write down the lessons and themes that emerge through your life chapters and turning
points. You may want to use the following questions as a guide:
• What was God trying to teach me during this chapter or turning point of my life?
• What should I remember as I move forward?
• What abilities or insights has God deposited into my life as a result of this experience?
• In what ways can the skills or insights God gave me through this experience impact my future?
• What character traits were developed in me as a result?
• What character traits have I come to value most in others?
• Are there any unique experiences or insights I have gained?
• What are some of the ways God has used me?
• Did this experience reveal anything to me about what God is like?
APPENDIX 1 03
Place these lessons and themes along the bottom margin of your poster board, underneath the corresponding
turning point or chapter. Then list them in the circle below.
PAST
EXPERIENCES
For additional help and resources related to creating a personal timeline and how God shapes and develops each of
our lives for a unique contribution, contact Leader Breakthru and Terry Walling at www.leaderbreakthru.com.
APPENDIX 1 04
Appendix 2—Spiritual Gifts Test
God has given each of us who are believers specific spiritual gifts. This spiritual gifts test will help you determine
what spiritual gifts and special talents God has given you. The test evaluates 22 gifts and talents. (Do not look ahead
to see what these gifts and talents are because that will influence your results!)
INSTRUCTIONS:
This spiritual gifts test consists of 110 statements that you are to respond to by entering in a number for each on
the analysis sheet (see page 2 of this appendix). Depending on how you feel about each statement, enter a number
between 1 and 10; 1 meaning that the statement does not describe you at all, and 10 meaning that the statement
describes you perfectly.
This test is designed for followers of Christ. If you have been following Christ for at least a few years, you should use
your personal experiences as the basis for your responses. If you are a new believer, then base your responses on
how well each statement describes you (even if you have not yet experienced what the statement refers to.)
Please keep in mind that this test was written by human beings and is certainly imperfect. It should be used as a
starting place to begin to discover how God has gifted you, but not as an absolute truth. The test may not always
indicate your true spiritual gifts. It is just one tool in what should be a life-long search for how God has gifted you so
you can give to others.
• As you take the test, enter a response for each statement in the corresponding pre-numbered box, rating on a
scale of 1 to 10 how well the statement describes you.
• Once you have completed a column, move back to the top and continue the test. Hide each finished column under
your participant guide so you cannot see the columns you have already answered. This will help to ensure unbiased
responses on the remainder of the test.
• Respond to each statement quickly with your first feeling. Because the list is fairly extensive and we don’t have
every gift, you will probably have many more low number responses than high number responses. That is ok.
• When you are finished, read the analysis instructions on page 8 of this appendix.
APPENDIX 2 01
SPIRITUAL GIFTS TEST – ANALYSIS SHEET
(TEAR THIS SHEET OUT, THEN FOLD ALONG CENTER GRAY LINE)
#1-22 #23-44 #45-66 #67-88 #89-110 SUM OF FIRST RANK IN ORDER NAME OF SPIRITUAL GIFT
5 COLUMNS HIGHEST TO / TALENT
LOWEST
RATE RATE RATE RATE RATE
1-10 1-10 1-10 1-10 1-10
1 23 45 67 89 Administration / Guidance
2 24 46 68 90 Apostle
3 25 47 69 91 Crafsmanship / Artisan
4 26 48 70 92 Discernment
5 27 49 71 93 Encouragement
6 28 50 72 94 Evangelism
7 29 51 73 95 Exhortation
8 30 52 74 96 Faith
9 31 53 75 97 Giving
10 32 54 76 98 Helps / Service
11 33 55 77 99 Hospitality
13 35 57 79 101 Knowledge
14 36 58 80 102 Leadership
16 38 60 82 104 Missionary
17 39 61 83 105 Music
19 41 63 85 107 Prophesy
20 42 64 86 108 Teaching
21 43 65 87 109 Wisdom
22 44 66 88 110 Writing
Gift 1 Gift 4
Gift 2 Gift 5
Gift 3
APPENDIX 2 02
BEGIN TEST:
1. People come to me when they are in desperate situations, and I am able to find someone who can help.
3. I enjoy using my artistic talents to create things that bring glory to God.
8. I hold fast to my personal belief in the truth even in the presence of ridicule, apparent failure, or pain.
9. I can give sacrificially because I know that God will meet my needs.
10. When I serve the Lord, I really don’t care who gets the credit.
12. I find myself praying when it might seem I should be doing other things.
13. I have had spiritual insights that others have said helped bring them closer to God.
18. I earnestly want to help Christians who have lost their way.
20. Studying the Bible and sharing what I learn with others is very satisfying for me.
21. I often feel an unusual presence of God and personal confidence when important decisions need to be made.
22. I sometimes express my love for God by writing poems, songs, prayers, or devotionals.
24. I feel God has asked me to establish new churches where people have never heard of Him.
25. I like to make gifts for others that will remind them of God or Jesus.
30. I am completely convinced God will fulfill His Word, even in circumstances when it seems He is not doing so yet.
32. I enjoy doing simple things for others that touch them deeply.
34. I often feel the need to pray for someone before others feel it.
37. I want to work with those who have physical or mental problems to alleviate their suffering.
38. I am willing to leave comfortable surroundings if it enables me to share Christ with more people.
39. Singing, dancing, and playing songs of praise to God for pure enjoyment is personally satisfying.
41. I find great joy in boldly announcing the Word of God to a specific situation.
42. People have told me that I have helped them learn Biblical truths.
43. Sometimes God gives me an insight into the proper course of action I or others should take.
44. I am able to take complex spiritual matters and write them down in a way that others can understand more easily.
45. I serve others by organizing and harnessing their gifts to solve a particular problem.
47. I like to serve God by working with my hands and making things.
50. I am able to determine when the Spirit has prepared a person to receive Jesus Christ.
51. People will take correction from me because they know I am on their side.
53. I am willing to maintain a lower standard of living in order to benefit God’s work.
54. I have enjoyed doing routine tasks that have led to more effective ministry by others.
55. I try to make everyone feel welcome and comfortable at church suppers or social events.
APPENDIX 2 04
56. When I hear a prayer request, I pray for that need for several days, at least.
57. Through study or experience I have discerned major strategies God seems to use in furthering His kingdom.
58. God has given me an ability to “rally the troops” in giving aid to others.
59. I enjoy spending time with a lonely shut-in person or someone in prison.
60. The thought of beginning a new church in a new community is exciting to me.
61. People have said they see the love of Jesus on my face when I sing, dance, or play music.
62. I feel I am responsible to help protect weak Christians from dangerous influences.
63. People tell me that I say things that are inspiring and convicting.
64. Teaching a Bible class is one of the most enjoyable things I do (or could do).
65. When a person has a problem, I can frequently guide him or her to the best Biblical solution.
66. I love to study God’s Word and write down what I have learned.
67. I can recognize talents and gifts in others, and find ways to use those gifts for God.
69. I am able to show people something about who God is through my art.
71. I have verbally given confidence to the wavering, the troubled, or the discouraged.
72. I minister better to those who do not yet know Christ than to believers.
74. I’ve been known to try the impossible because I have a great trust in God.
75. I have strongly sensed God asking me to give money to a specific person or cause.
76. I would rather work in secret than have my work recognized publicly.
79. I sometimes find I know things that I have never been taught.
81. I enjoy visiting people in hospitals and retirement homes, and feel I am helpful when I do.
82. More than most, I have a strong desire to see people in other countries won to the Lord.
83. People tell me they have been moved spiritually by my singing, dancing, or playing music.
APPENDIX 2 05
84. I feel God is asking me to be the spiritual leader of a group of Christians.
85. I am willing to speak against sin and evil, even though I might be criticized and ridiculed.
86. I devote considerable time to learning new Biblical truths in order to communicate them to others.
87. I feel I am especially good at selecting the best alternative in a difficult situation.
88. People say they have been touched spiritually by things I have written.
89. People sometimes look to me for guidance in coordination, organization, and ministry opportunities.
90. God has used me to bring the gospel to people who have never heard it.
91. I feel compelled to use my hands to craft things that show an aspect of God in some way.
92. I can quickly recognize whether or not a person’s teaching is consistent with God’s word.
93. People who are feeling perplexed often come to me for comfort.
95. I can identify with weakness and temptation so as to encourage people to repent and believe.
96. I have believed God for the impossible and have seen it happen in a tangible way.
97. I strive to find ways to give to others without calling attention to myself.
99. When people come to my home, they often say they feel at home with me.
100. Others have told me that my prayers for them have been answered in tangible ways.
101. God has given me words to say in different situations that have surprised even me.
102. I believe in motivating others to obey Christ by the living testimony of my life.
103. Sometimes I am overcome with emotion for the person I am praying for.
104. People of a different race or culture have been drawn to me, and we have related well.
106. God has given me the ability to teach and preach spiritual truth.
108. I communicate Biblical truths to others in a way that leads to identifiable change in them.
109. People with spiritual problems come to me for advice and counsel.
110. I prefer to write down my thoughts about God rather than speaking them out loud.
APPENDIX 2 06
ANALYSIS INSTRUCTIONS
First, look over the analysis sheet to make sure you have entered a number from 1 to 10 in each of the 110 pre-
numbered response boxes. If you left any of the boxes empty, go back to the corresponding statement and enter
your response.
Now, unfold the analysis sheet. Calculate the sum of the 5 responses in each horizontal row and enter it in the sum
column. Do this for each of the 22 rows of responses. Each sum should be a number between 5 and 50.
Next, look over the 22 numbers you have just entered in the vertical sum column. Identify the highest number. Now,
place an “1” in the rank column for the row with the highest sum. If there is more than one row with this same high
number, place an “1” in the rank column for each.
Look for the second highest number. Place a “2” in the rank column for each row with this number.
Look for the third highest number and place a “3” in the rank column for each row with this number.
Continue this process until you have identified your top five spiritual gifts and talents.
You can find out more about your spiritual gifts and talents by reading the spiritual gifts reference material on the
following pages.
ADMINISTRATION
Administration is the special ability God gives to some that allows them to accomplish God-given goals and
directives by planning, organizing, and supervising others.
People with the gift of administration have the ability to understand what makes an organization function and can
plan and execute procedures that accomplish the goals of the ministry.
APPENDIX 2 07
- create order out of organizational chaos
- manage or coordinate a variety of responsibilities to accomplish a task
- organize people, tasks, or events
1 Corinthians 12:28-31
Luke 14:28-30
APOSTLE
Apostles are able to exercise general leadership or oversight over a number of churches with an authority in spiritual
matters. Their authority is readily recognized. God appoints Christians with this gift to lead, inspire, and develop the
Church by the proclamation and the teaching of true doctrine.
Apostles have a divine ability to start and oversee the development of new churches or ministry structures.
1 Corinthians 12:28-31
Ephesians 4:11-16
2 Corinthians 12:12
Matthew 10:1-8
Acts 2:42-44
CRAFTSMANSHIP / ARTIST
Believers with this gift possess the skill to create artistic expressions that provoke a spiritual response. Those with
the gift of skilled craftsmanship have an unusual ability to create, build, maintain, or repair things.
Craftsmen are able to creatively design and/or construct items to be used for ministry. Artists communicate God’s
truth through a variety of art forms.
APPENDIX 2 08
- use variety and creativity to captivate people and cause them to consider Christ’s message
- challenge people’s perspective of God through various forms of the arts
- demonstrate fresh ways to express Biblical truths
Exodus 28:3-4
Exodus 31:1-11
Exodus 35:30-35
DISCERNMENT
Discernment is the special ability God gives to some to know with assurance whether certain behavior or teaching is
truth or contains error. People with the gift of discernment have an uncanny ability to differentiate between good and
evil, right and wrong.
1 Corinthians 12:7-11
1 John 4:1-6
1 Corinthians 2:9-16
2 Chronicles 2:12
Psalm 119:125
Proverbs 3:21
1 Kings 3:9
Hebrews 5:14
ENCOURAGEMENT
Encouragement is the special ability God gives some to offer comfort, words of encouragement, hope, and reassur-
ance to discouraged, weak, or troubled Christians in a way that consoles them.
Romans 12:6-8
Titus 1:9
Acts 11:23-24
Acts 14:21-22
1 Thessalonians 2:11-12
1 Thessalonians 5:9-11
APPENDIX 2 09
EVANGELISM / EVANGELIST
Evangelists are gifted with a special ability to proclaim the Gospel of salvation effectively so that people respond and
become followers of Christ. These people possess the ability to effectively communicate the gospel to unbelievers
so they respond in faith and move toward discipleship.
Ephesians 4:11-16
Matthew 28:16-20
Acts 2:36-40
Acts 8:5-6
Acts 14:21
Acts 8:26-40
2 Timothy 4:5
EXHORTATION
People with this gift have a special ability through the use of words to strengthen weak, faltering, and fainthearted
Christians, motivating them to become all God wants them to be.
Exhorters help others reach their full potential by means of encouraging, challenging, comforting, and guiding. They
are able to present truth in a way that urges those who are discouraged or wavering in their faith to take action.
1 Timothy 5:1-2
Hebrews 3:13
1 Thessalonians 5:14
APPENDIX 2 10
FAITH
Those with the spiritual gift of faith have especially strong conviction. They are firmly persuaded of
God’s power and promises to accomplish His will and purpose. These gifted people display strong confidence in
God and His Word, and circumstances and obstacles do not shake that conviction.
The spiritual gift of faith enables the believer to act on God’s promises with confidence and unwavering belief in His
ability to fulfill His purposes.
1 Corinthians 12:7-11
Mark 5:25-34
Acts 27:21-25
Hebrews 11
Romans 4:18-21
GIVING
The gift of giving enables a believer to recognize God’s blessings and to respond to those blessings by generously,
sacrificially, and cheerfully giving of their time, talents, and money without thought of being repaid.
This gift enables believers to contribute financial and other resources when God asks them to with cheerfulness and
generosity. Instead of asking “How much do I have to give to God,” people with the spiritual gift of giving often find
themselves asking “How much can I give?”
Romans 12:6-8
2 Corinthians 9:6-15
2 Corinthians 8:2-5
Mark 12:41-44
Matthew 6:3-4
APPENDIX 2 11
HELPS / SERVICE
This is the gift that enables a believer to work gladly behind the scenes to ensure that God’s work is
accomplished. The special ability God gives some to serve the church in a supporting role or to invest their talents in the
life and ministry of others enables people with this gift to make a lasting difference in the world.
Believers with this gift are able to accomplish practical and necessary tasks which free-up, support, and meet the needs of others.
HOSPITALITY
Those with a gift for making others feel like they are at home have the gift of hospitality. Believers with this gift provide an open
home and warm welcome to those in need of food, lodging, and fellowship. The gift of hospitality is marked by a readiness to
invite others into your home or church and to make them feel not only welcome, but as though they belong there.
1 Peter 4:9-10
Romans 12:9-13
Acts 16:14-15
Luke 10:38
Hebrews 13:1-2
APPENDIX 2 12
INTERCESSION / PRAYER
Some people are especially gifted by God to pray for extended periods of time on a regular basis and see frequent
and specific answers to their prayers. Their gift enables them to consistently pray on behalf of and for others, seeing
frequent and specific results.
KNOWLEDGE
The gift of knowledge is a special gift that enables certain Christians to understand in an exceptional way the great
truths of God’s Word and to make them relevant to specific situations in the church. Believers with this gift desire to
seek out and learn as much about the Bible as they possibly can. They enjoy gathering and analyzing information
about the Bible. Their gift enables them to bring truth to others through a revelation or Biblical insight.
APPENDIX 2 13
LEADERSHIP
Those with the spiritual gift of leadership are able to set goals to accomplish God’s purposes and can communicate
these goals to others in such a way that they voluntarily work together to accomplish them. Believers with this gift
are able to cast vision, motivate, and direct people to accomplish the purposes of God.
Romans 12:6-8
Hebrews 13:7
Hebrews 13:17
MERCY / COMPASSION
This gift allows certain Christians to feel exceptional empathy and compassion for those who are suffering
physically, mentally, or emotionally. They are able to feel genuine sympathy for the misery of others, speaking
words of compassion. Most importantly, they are able to care for those who suffer with acts of love that help
alleviate their distress.
Believers with the gift of mercy cheerfully and practically help those who are suffering and in need by putting
compassion into action.
APPENDIX 2 14
MISSIONS
Those with the special ability God gives to some to minister in another culture have the spiritual gift of missions.
Those with this gift find it easy or exciting to adjust to a different culture or community. Missionaries find great joy
working with minorities, people of other countries, or those with other distinct cultural differences. This gift instills in
believers a stronger-than-average desire to be a part of the fulfillment of the Great Commission around the world.
MUSIC
Music is the spiritual gift that gives a believer the ability to present personal witness and inspiration to others through
instrumental music, singing, or dancing. These gifted believers praise God through music in a way that enhances
the worship experience of other believers. Those listening or watching become inspired to feel the presence and
majesty of God.
APPENDIX 2 15
PASTOR / SHEPHERD
Believers with the spiritual gift of a pastor/shepherd are able to assume a long-term personal responsibility for
leadership and the spiritual care, protection, guidance, and teaching of a group of believers. They feel a strong
desire to nurture, care for, and guide people to follow and become like Christ.
PROPHET / PROPHECY
Believers with the spiritual gift of prophecy are able to proclaim the Word of God with clarity and apply it fearlessly to
strengthen, encourage, and convict other believers and to convince unbelievers. These believers are especially able
to interpret and apply God’s revelation in a given situation. They reveal truth and proclaim it in a timely and relevant
manner for understanding, correction, repentance, and edification.
APPENDIX 2 16
TEACHING / TEACHER
Some believers have been given a unique ability to explain the truths of the Word of God clearly and apply them
effectively so that others understand and learn. They instruct others about the Bible in a logical and systematic
way that communicates and imparts true understanding and growth. These gifted believers are able to understand,
clearly explain, and apply the word of God in a way that causes those listening to become more like Christ.
Ephesians 4:11-16
Romans 12:6-8
1 Corinthians 12:28-31
Hebrews 5:12-14
Acts 18:24-28
WISDOM
This gift allows a believer to sort through opinions, facts, and thoughts in order to determine what solution would be
best for themselves and others. These gifted individuals are able to apply knowledge to life in a way that is relevant
and practical to daily life and decision making. They know the mind of God in a way that brings insight into how to
apply knowledge so that specific needs of others are met.
1 Corinthians 12:7-11
James 3:13-18
2 Chronicles 1:7-11
Acts 6:3-10
1 Corinthians 2:6-13
James 1:5-8
1 Kings 3:16-28
APPENDIX 2 17
WRITING
This gift gives a believer the ability to express truth in written form in a way that builds up, instructs, comforts or
strengthens others. Their special ability to formulate thoughts and ideas into meaningful written form enables the
reader to find courage, guidance, knowledge, or edification through their words. The writers of the Bible had this gift.
Luke 1:1-3
1 John 2:1
1 John 2:12-14
1 Timothy 3:14-15
Jude 1:3
APPENDIX 2 18
Appendix 3 – Next Steps: FOCUSING ON THE FIVE SPOKES...
THE FIVE SPOKES: A SURVEY
Completing the following survey may help you determine the spokes or areas where you might be most hungry for
vision. Mark any of the following that are true for you:
The categories in which you marked the most statements are the ones you might consider giving priority attention.
You can’t do everything at once, so pick one or two of the five spokes to focus on in the coming weeks.
APPENDIX 3 01
SPOKE 1 NEXT STEPS; YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD
He who has clean hands and...who does not lift up his soul to an idol...He will receive blessing
from the LORD... Psalms 24:4-5 NIV
OVERCOMING SIN
Come back to your senses as you ought, and stop sinning... 1 Corinthians 15:34 NIV
In case you’ve ever felt trapped by a habitual, repetitive sin, here’s some encouragement from God’s Word:
God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will
also provide a way out... 1 Corinthians 10:13 NIV
No sin is too big for God to conquer in you. God will show you a way out!
REJECTING IDOLS
Idolatry is not a single act of sin. Think of it more as a lifestyle built around sinful priorities. Anything we value can
become more valuable to us than God. That is when it becomes an idol.
You shall have no other gods before me. Exodus 20:3 NIV
APPENDIX 3 02
1. Who or what do you put ahead of God?
“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,” declares the
LORD... Jeremiah 29:13-14 NIV
You have forsaken your first love...Repent and do the things you did at first. Revelation 2:4-5 NIV
(Place a mark beside the things you will do to focus on your relationship with God.)
Bible study
Worship
Serving
Prayer
Fellowship
Missions
Fasting
Accountability
Mentorship
Other:
In your 100-Day Journal, write down your action plan to increase your intimacy with God. Ask Him to help you!
APPENDIX 3 03
SPOKE 2 NEXT STEPS;
YOUR RELATIONSHIPS WITH OTHERS
Fill in the blanks, then make notes below each step detailing how you plan to accomplish it.
Step 3 - I commit to attempt to restore my relationship with ___________________ by _____________ (fill in specifics).
Step 4 - I commit to lovingly redefine or sever my relationship with ________________ until God shows me otherwise.
APPENDIX 3 04
SPOKE 3 NEXT STEPS;
YOUR FINANCIAL PLAN
1. Take another look at your core values. In the world of wealth, if you don’t stand for something, you’ll lay down
your money for anything. List your core values again here:
Examples:
• If physical health is a core value, your vision might include driving an older car to afford a gym membership.
• If generosity is one of your values, your vision might be to save money by packing your lunch instead of eating out,
freeing up more funds to give.
• If having a stay-at-home mom is a core value of your family, you might choose to live in a smaller house so she
doesn’t have to work to help meet the payments.
Let your values determine your financial plan. List some ideas below:
3. Get help! Choose someone with whom you can be completely transparent and honest about your finances. Let
them hold you accountable. Then take step after achievable step to pay off old debt as you live your financial life
according to God’s Chazown.
Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed. Proverbs 15:22 (NIV)
APPENDIX 3 05
SPOKE 4 NEXT STEPS;
YOUR PHYSICAL PLAN
...No one ever hated his own body, but he feeds and cares for it, just as Christ does the church...
Ephesians 5:29 NIV
4. What question are you relieved is not listed here? Ask it!
Based on your answers, list the positive changes you are committing to make. Then, seek accountability!
APPENDIX 3 06
QUESTION 2 - How will you care for your body?
5. Are you living with stress? Do you need to find appropriate relief?
8. What question are you relieved is not listed here? Ask it!
Based on your answers, list the positive changes you are committing to make. Then, seek accountability!
APPENDIX 3 07
SPOKE 5 NEXT STEPS;
YOUR WORK PLAN
For this season of your life, are you doing the work God wants you to do?
1. Don’t panic!
2. Trust God.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge
him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV
Now, take a deep breath. Look back through your Chazown participant guide. Then ask yourself:
Now, look again at the Three Circles. List them again below, prayerfully thinking through each of your past
experiences, core values and spiritual gifts as you write them down.
CORE
VALUES
CHAZOWN
SPIRITUAL PAST
GIFTS EXPERIENCES
APPENDIX 3 08
Consider these questions once more:
1. If money were no object and you could do anything you wanted for the rest of your life, what would you do?
2. Besides ministering to those who are most important to you, what is the number one thing that you believe God
wants to accomplish through you?
2. What is your vision for your work ten years from now?
List 2-3 short-term goals to help you move toward your vision:
Goal 1:
Goal 2:
Goal 3:
Finally, remember. Whatever you are doing at this moment, do it for Him. Do it with the
best attitude He can give you. Do it with everything in you. Don’t hold back!
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart as working for the Lord, not for men. Colossians 3:23 NIV
APPENDIX 3 09
Featuring video segments and step-by-step personal exercises, this life-planning experience is
designed to help you find, name, and live out your unique vision—your Chazown.
Discover all the resources you will need to host The Chazown Experience at your church or in
your small group – all at no cost! Visit www.chazown.com today!
www.chazown.com