Isolation…a crappy Job…flurona—all of us have an easy list of reasons why this year could be destined to suck. In fact, these days it’s reasonable and normal to assume things are awful and won’t change. But is that actually the truth? Join us today as Brian talks about how we have the power to change our lives regardless of the terrible circumstances we face.
Process, journal or discuss the themes of this article - here's a few questions to get the ball rolling...
This is the group part of the Bible Challenge, so your questions are based on a specific Bible passage like the weekend message. Each week, your group will discover what God might be saying to you, and how you can respond through a group discussion.
What’s the best nickname you’ve ever received? (Note: If you have any new people in your group, be sure to get their real name first, or it could get weird.)
What stood out to you in this weekend’s message?
Read Daniel 1:3-7. Daniel was selected because he had some things going for him. Share with the group how you think God made you — gifts, skills, characteristics, etc. How does this affirm who God made you to be?
The Bablyonions tried to bring Daniel into their culture by giving him a new name. Discuss some areas as a group where you feel tension in following God or aligning with the culture you’re in.
Now read Daniel 1:8. What is one way you can choose to follow God this week?
Now close your time in prayer. Here’s an example: “God, thank you for giving us an example of faithfulness in Daniel. He was in a world that was in chaos, and our world feels like that too. We ask for the same clarity Daniel received. As we read Your Word, teach us who You are and who You say we are. Give us the strength and courage to lean more on you then on our own understanding.”
More from the Weekend
Bonus Questions Check these out if you’re on a roll and want to go a little deeper!
1) There are many prophecies in the book of Daniel. For some of us that’s a new concept, and others of us might have stories that make us hesitant of prophecy today. What is your experience with prophecy, and how do you feel about leaning into it as a way to experience God?
2) Sometimes it’s hard to see where God is using specific situations for our long-term good, like the Babylonions’ rule in this time reminding people He is the one true God. Share an area where odds seem against you. Where do you need His encouragement or perspective of how he’s working this out for you? As a group, commit to praying for each other in those areas this week.
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Jan 9, 2022 • 1 hr 9 mins