We don’t know why certain things happen, but we can trust that God is still good.
Key Quote
“When you don’t feel God’s Hand in your life, trust his Heart.” – Pastor Nate Dooley
Start talking. Find a conversation starter for your group.
Are you more of a dog or a cat person?
What’s a dream vacation you’d love to take one day?
If you got to spend a day with anyone, past or present, who would it be?
You’re stranded on a desert island: What 3 things would you have with you?
Start thinking. Ask a thoughtful question.
Why do you think God sometimes allows bad things to happen?
What do we know about God’s heart? What do we know about his character?
What is the significance of going “through the valley”?
What does Pastor Nate’s pottery illustration of going through fire teach us about life?
Start sharing. Choose questions that create openness.
What are trials that you’ve been through that you now realize God was using for your good?
What do you need to trust God with right now that doesn’t really make sense?
How has your former or current pain been used to help someone else?
What’s a lesson you have learned in the valley?
Start praying. Be bold, and pray with power.
Dear Jesus, thank you that you are always working things together for our good. Even though we don’t understand everything, we trust your heart. In your name we pray, Amen.
Start doing. Commit to a step and live it out this week.
Take some time this week to write down 10 things that Scripture says about who God says you are. Read over that list every time you need that reminder!
Spend time in prayer asking God to lead you through this trial.
Tell the group about a time God brought you through a struggle or trial. You never know who will be encouraged by your story!
Sometimes the best way to encourage yourself during hardship is to serve others. Identify one way you can serve or help someone this week.
Scriptures
“…you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good” Genesis 50:20
“So then, it was not you who sent me here, but God.” Genesis 45:8
“3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our troubles, SO THAT we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
“ And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you.” Genesis 45:5
“28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28
