A Framework for Those Who Suffer
As sufferings increase, so does the supply of God’s grace. The apostle Paul says that through Christ our comfort overflows, so that we might be able to then comfort others.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- What did you find to be the most impactful part of today’s sermon and why?
- Drawing near to Christ in a time of suffering is critical, since suffering often leads us to call God’s character into question. Do you agree or disagree with that statement? Explain.
- In developing “a framework for suffering,” we understand that, in part, it is so we might comfort others. How have you felt comforted by others, and how have found God use you to comfort others in need?
- Discuss the notion that God desires for us to not be channels and not cisterns.
- Another part of the framework for suffering is that we might not trust in ourselves but in our God. Discuss a time when your struggles bolstered your trust in God. If you find it difficult to trust in God because of a present struggle, would you be willing to share that with the group?
- Another part of the framework for suffering is that by we learn to give thanks. Read and discuss 1 Thessalonians 5:17, Colossians 3:15, and Colossians 4:2.
- We were encouraged to guard our hearts against bitterness. How do you navigate the biblical exhortation to be thankful with the human propensity to harbor bitterness?