September 2006 Discussion Questions

Adults

Attitude is everything, they say. About what things do you have a good attitude? Are there things about which you have a bad attitude? What difference might it make to change your attitude about those things? What keeps you from making that change?

Much has been written about the value of “meaningful work,” and yet both men in this month’s parable had the same job. What made it meaningful for one and not the other?

This month’s parable might be said to be about “emotional stewardship.” Are our emotions and attitudes God’s gifts, too?How can we be good stewards of those gifts?

Teens

The two men in this parable had the same boring job and the same responsibilities at home. But one came home crabby and depressed while the other one seemed upbeat and eager to spend time with his family. What do you think made the difference?

Do you have a job? What is it? How do you feel about it? What would you change about it if you could?

Coaches try to foster a “winning attitude” in their players. Why? What difference does it make? How does attitude affect performance? Give examples from your own experience if you can.

Children

Do you know any crabby people like the first man in this story? What do you suppose makes them that way? Are you ever crabby? What do you do to cheer yourself up?

Do you have any chores around the house? What are they? How do you feel about having to do those jobs for your mom or dad?

Has anyone ever praised you or rewarded you for a job well done? How did it make you feel?