Discussion Guide | Feb. 16, 2025

February 18th, 2025

Introduction

"Stick in There" - Sermon Summary

This week's sermon focuses on the importance of encouragement in today's world and our dual role as both recipients and givers of encouragement. Pastor Bill emphasizes that while we all face moments of discouragement and self-doubt, our hope should be placed in God rather than worldly things. He uses various biblical examples and historical references to illustrate how encouragement can transform lives and situations.

True encouragement isn't just about making people feel better, but about infusing others with hope and courage while pointing them to God. We are reminded that joy and peace are fruits of the Spirit rather than feelings, and can be present even in difficult circumstances.

Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, as we gather to discuss Your word, we ask that You open our hearts and minds to receive what You have for us today. Help us to be both encouraged and encouragers. Guide our conversation and help us to see how we can better reflect Your encouraging nature in our daily lives. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Ice Breaker

Can you share about a time when someone's words of encouragement made a significant difference in your life?

Main Study

Key Verses

John 16:33
Psalm 16:8
Isaiah 40:31
Philippians 4:13
Romans 8:28
Hebrews 10:23-25

Questions

Why do you think encouragement becomes harder to find as we get older?
How does placing our hope in God differ from placing it in other things?
The sermon mentions that joy and peace are fruits of the Spirit, not feelings. How does this change your perspective on experiencing joy in difficult times?
What does it mean to 'put on a garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness'?
How can we be more intentional about encouraging others in our daily lives?
What role does community play in encouragement, according to the sermon?
How can we maintain encouragement when circumstances don't change?
What practical steps can we take to become 'sons and daughters of encouragement' like Barnabas?

Life Application

This week, commit to being intentionally encouraging to at least three people. Write down specific, meaningful encouragements for each person, similar to the teacher's classroom exercise mentioned in the sermon. Then, share these encouragements with them either in person or through a written note.

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Closing

Key Takeaways

True encouragement is rooted in God's presence and promises, not circumstances
We are called to be both recipients and givers of encouragement
Joy and peace are fruits of the Spirit, not dependent on our situations
God works all things together for good, even in difficult times
Encouragement can have lasting impact on people's lives

Ending Prayer

Lord, thank You for Your constant encouragement through Your Word and Your presence. Help us to be vessels of Your encouragement to others, speaking life and hope into the lives around us. Give us wisdom to know when and how to encourage others, and help us to remember that You are working all things together for good. In Jesus' name, Amen.

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