Lean In

What’s one Christmas tradition that warms your heart every year?
The Grinch’s heart grew “three sizes that day.” When has God expanded your heart in a surprising way?

Look Up

Primary Passage: Ezekiel 36:26–27

OBSERVATION – “What does the text say?”

INTERPRETATION – “What does it mean?”

What does a “heart of stone” look like in real life?
Why does God tie spiritual transformation to receiving a “new heart”?
How does this promise connect to the Grinch’s transformation story?
What does this teach us about God’s posture toward hard, hurting, or closed-off hearts?

APPLICATION – “How should I respond?”

Where do you sense your heart becoming guarded, cold, or tired?
What might God be wanting to soften or heal in you this season?
Who in your world needs grace instead of judgment?
What is one practical way to move toward people rather than away from them this Christmas?

SCRIPTURES USED

Ezekiel 36:26–27

Psalm 51:10

Matthew 11:28–30

1 John 4:9–11

Luke 6:36

PRAYER

Thank God for pursuing you even when your heart was closed.

Confess the areas where your heart has hardened.

Ask Him to expand your capacity to love like Jesus.

Close with:

“Lord, give us a new heart and a new spirit. Soften what has grown cold, heal what has been wounded, and teach us to love like You. Amen.”

PRACTICE: STEP OUT

Daily Heart Check:

Ask: “Father, is my heart open today?” Write what comes to mind.

Choose One Grinch Move: