Most of us know a family member, a friend, a co-worker, or someone we went to school with that is in a battle with some kind of addiction. The truth is, it may be you, reading this now. Maybe you’ve never acknowledged it. Maybe you’ve lived in denial about the daily struggle that you’re experiencing. Regardless of how this subject has impacted you, we hope that you’re encouraged in our conversation today.

Our guest this week is Mike Mueller. Mike is a husband, father and coach in our community who has been a part of Southland for 13 years.

On this episode Mike shares the story of how God changed his life and is now using him to impact lots of people who have struggled with some of the same things.

 

DISCUSSION GUIDE

Have you ever coached at the youth sports level? What is your favorite story from coaching kids?

Mike has served in several areas in the church (Connections, security, small groups, Men’s Retreat). What areas have you served in? If you don’t currently serve, what areas of ministry would you be best suited for?

Scott talks about how even if we don’t have the big name vices, most people have an addiction to something. What do you find yourself going back to time and time again despite the negative consequences? What are you addicted to?

Mike describes himself as a functional alcoholic. He did so much to cover up his addiction. Have you experienced this yourself or with someone you know? Why is this so dangerous?

Scott & Mike discussed the beauty of Rock Bottom. It’s the pivot point, it’s your opportunity to change, and to meet God. Have you ever had a Rock Bottom moment? What did God teach you there? What changed about you?

Read James 4:8-10. What does this passage teach us about how we deal with sin? What do you need to take from this passage to utilize in your own life?

Read Luke 9:23-24. What do you need to deny yourself of to follow Jesus? What are you still holding onto that’s keeping you from full life in Jesus?

Read Psalm 40:1-10. What does it look like to be fully authentic in front of God and others? Do you have a place to share the good, the bad, and the ugly of your story? For those who have shared their story, what was that experience like? How did God use that to grow you?

We want men to experience freedom. Is there something you are hiding and need to reveal to somebody? Will you confess it in this group? If not, will you email [email protected] and let us connect you to somebody to confess to?

What else from the podcast spoke to you?

What did God/Holy Spirit speak/prompt/say to you?  What’s God asking you to do?  What does He want to give you?  What does He want you to lay down?

 

NEXT STEPS 

• Visit the AA meetings that happen at our church:

• NIC Campus Thursday 6-8pm

• LEX Campus Tuesday 6-8pm

• GEO Campus Tuesday 7-8pm.

• Join a Group at southland.church/groups

• For any other questions or comments email [email protected]