We like a sure thing… we want to know how everything will work out before we even get started. But then we’re met with a roadblock… a job loss… a lousy health report… a relationship ends… and we’re stuck in this place of uncertainty.
When facing the Unknown, we need to focus on our Heavenly Father, who tells us—even when we can’t see the way out—He’s in the middle of it with us… walking with us every step!
Key Scripture
Discussion Questions
Don’t be afraid to add to this list, skip questions that don’t work for your group, or branch off with additional questions as discussion unfolds. Conversation is key! This is the time to work through the application of scripture and have group members figure things out together.
- Walking by faith is living every day, believing that God can be trusted and will keep His promises. Do you think that you truly trust God with everything that you are and everything that you have? Why or why not?
- Read Hebrews 11:32–38. There is quite a difference between the positive outcomes described at the beginning of this segment compared to the hardships described in the latter half. Yet all of these portrayals are of faithful believers. Sometimes, in our Christian walks, we will see God visibly working, and sometimes, it seems as if He isn’t there with us at all. How can you combat the lie that tells us that facing challenges and trials means that God has abandoned us? What verses do you look to when you feel alone?
- Read Hebrews 11:39. All of the Old Testament “greats” of the Bible never saw the full extent of God’s promises come to fruition in their lifetime, yet they still walked by faith. When you pray for something and don’t receive a response, how can this knowledge encourage you? What do we have that they didn’t, and why should that make our faith that much stronger?
- Do you find yourself thinking that you are mentally and/or physically strong enough to get through whatever life puts in your path? Read Hebrews 12:1–2. What does God say to do when you are facing difficulty?
- If your eyes aren’t fixed on Jesus, they will be fixed upon something else that will never satisfy. What do you find yourself looking to? Things that money can buy? The pleasures of sin? Hopes and dreams for the future? Another person? As believers, why is it so crucial not only for ourselves but also for the unsaved around us that we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus and Jesus alone?
- When we lose heart, we are even more susceptible to sin. We can experience bitterness, envy, hatred, anger, or feelings of abandonment. We can look for an escape, or we can look elsewhere for happiness. Do you tend to gravitate towards one of these things? How can we avoid falling into these traps? Why is it so important that we don’t hide our pain and pretend everything is always okay?
- Pastor Anthony told us to stop looking at Jesus to make our lives better. Sometimes, God brings things into our lives for the sole purpose of bringing Him glory so that we can shine brighter for Him. We have a responsibility to live fearlessly, confidently, and faithfully. Read 2 Corinthians 12:9 and encourage your group members to live out this directive.
Accountability
- Where are you reading in the Bible this week? What has God been revealing to you through your quiet time with Him?
- Discuss any struggles you may be going through with your group.
- How can you pray for your group this week? How can they be praying for you?