REVIEW: Testing reveals what is in our hearts.
- READ: Psalm 139:23-24 “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.”
- DISCUSS: What common temptations do you face when dealing with trials or testing? In other words, what has recent testing revealed is living in your heart?
REVIEW: Testing refines our faith.
- READ: 1 Peter 1:7 “These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world.”
- DISCUSS: How has God used trials to develop your faith and character? Give examples of certain situations and how God used them to develop you.
REVIEW: When we lay it all down, our lives point people to Jesus.
- READ: Ephesians 5:2 “Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God.”
- DISCUSS: Who have you seen handle testing well, and how did it encourage you toward Jesus?
ASK:
What else did you get from this week's sermon? What actions or next steps can you take to apply it to your life?
PRAY:
For a Godly perspective on the difficulties we face, the humility to face our struggles and weaknesses, and the resolve to trust God with those areas and invite his transformation over time.