Message Notes for October 8, 2023

Series: Anticipation

Title: Anticipation in Trials

God makes promises that we should anticipate will come true in the midst of trial and struggle.

1 Peter 5:6-11 Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, 7 casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. 8 Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. 9 Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. 10 And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. 11 To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Notes:

The nature of God in suffering:

The nature of evil in suffering:

What we can anticipate from God as we come face to face with suffering and brokenness.

1 – God can use problems to examine the intent of our hearts and refine our character.

2 – God can use problems to lead us in the right direction.

3 – God can use problems to shield us from greater harm or use us for a greater good.

4 – God can use time to refine our serving.

5 – God will pour out all grace.

6 – God will perfect us more securely on the other side.

Family/Study Group Notes for October 8, 2023

Series: Anticipation

Title: Anticipation in Trials

• Share with each other about a difficult time in your life. How did you experience the presence of God in that time?

• Read 1 Peter 5:6-11. What is God asking us to do in struggling times? What are the promises of God in this passage? What does this passage say about the character of God? How have you experienced the truth of this passage in your life?

• Read Matthew 7:24-27. What point is Jesus making in this passage? What does Jesus mean by hearing and doing the words of Jesus? What words would He be speaking of? When have you experienced failure because you did not follow the words of Jesus? How did you get back on the right path?

• How has God used a struggle or trial in your life to help others? How could you live this out with more purpose? How does Psalm 119:71-72 apply to you?