Key Passage: “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4
The only way to the top of the “mountain” is through the valley.
REVIEW: The valley is the only way up the mountain.
- READ: James 1:2 “Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy.”
- DISCUSS: What are some of the lessons you have learned through hardship with God?
- DISCUSS: What has helped you hold to your trust in God while in a valley?
REVIEW: The valley is temporary.
- READ: Romans 8:28 “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.”
- DISCUSS: Do you feel stuck in any area of your life or any aspect of your character? How can this group help you have hope for the future?
REVIEW: The valley teaches us to depend on the shepherd.
- READ: Psalm 121:7-8 “The Lord keeps you from all harm and watches over your life. The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever.”
- DISCUSS: How can you leverage the current challenges, hardships, or pressures in your life to seek God more desperately?
ASK:
What else did you get out of the sermon this week? What actions or next steps can you take to apply it to your life?
PRAY:
Pray for a renewed hope in trials and a fresh perspective on our hardship that allows us to “consider them an opportunity for great joy.”