ROOTED WEEK 4: Where is God in the Midst of Suffering

 

ROOTED: Connecting with God, The Church, Your Purpose

Weekly Memory Verse:

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:6-7

Day 1: The Reality of Hardship and Suffering

• All of have gone through times of despair or feeling completely alone. In that time, what were your feelings about your situation and about God?
  
  
• What lessons from David's life can help you through these challenging times?
  
  
• Write a prayer expressing your challenges/despair/confusion/anger about a situation. Your words don't have to be "churchy" or eloquent. Just be honest. Don't worry, God can handle it.

Day 2: You Are Not Alone

• Describe a time when you felt hopeless
• Describe a time when, despite your circumstances, you had hope from the Lord.
• Thank God for His unfailing love. If you are in a challenging spot right bow, boldly ask for His sustaining hope.

Day 3: Double-fisted Faith

• Describe your feelings of "double-fisted faith." Is this idea a struggle for you or do you embrace it?
• When have you had to clench your fists and cling tightly onto God's promises, not knowing the outcomes of the situation?
• Pray that God would strengthen your faith in questioning times, knowing that He has you in the palm of His hand.
  
  

Day 4: Our Response: SURRENDER

• What would it take to completely surrender your life to God?
• What is a care in your life you need to give over to God right now?
• Write a prayer of surrender.  Ask God to help you release to Him what you've been holding tightly.

Day 5: Character Like Christ

• What challenges are you facing now that are helping transform your character to be more like Christ's?
• Where do you see God's hand working in your circumstances?
• Thank God for the opportunities He gives to become more like Christ. Ask Him to show you His plan as you move through difficult times.