PAIN...HURT...These are simple, four-letter words. But at the same time they can carry enormous amounts of weight and depth in our lives as teenagers. How can something so small impact our lives in such huge, life-altering ways?
This past Sunday night, we wrapped up our teaching series entitled "Pause." We started by looking at how we need to pause from the busyness of life and planning ahead for the future, in order to be "in the moment." Last week, we saw how when we pause long enough, we can begin to see how we are in the midst of God's presence. And finally, this past Sunday, we saw how in the midst of pain and hurt- when life seems like it is spiraling out of control and hope seems like a distant thought, we can turn to the cross and recognize that God sees our pain, He's heard our cried for help, and that He has come down to rescue us in the person of Jesus. In the midst of your pain, your hurt, and your questions of "why," know that you can cling to the cross and find hope and and peace through what Jesus has done for us.
During this week, take some time to re-read through Exodus 3:7-9. If you want to see how God "came down" to rescue his people from their hurt and pain, read through Exodus 14. After reading, focus your time on these questions:
1. During this past week, were you able to Pause long enough to experience God's presence around you? If so, where were you? How did you experience God?
2. Do you think it is easier to pause and notice God in the good times of life when things are going well, or when you are in the midst of pain and hurt and darkness is all around? Why?
3. Have you ever found yourself questioning God's presence? What happened that caused your questioning?
4. What does Exodus 3:7-9 tell us about the character of God in the midst of our pain?
5. Where do you tend to turn for hope and peace in the midst of the painful and trying times of life? Why?
6. Has God ever used friends, scripture, lyrics, etc...to comfort you in your times of hurt?
7. Read Isaiah 40:25-31, what do you think it means to "wait" or to "hope" in the Lord?
Although God doesn't promise us a perfect, pain-free life, He does promise to carry us in the worst of life's situations. In John 16:33, Jesus reminds us that we are going to have trouble, that life is not always going to be perfect. But that is why He has come, to rescue us from ourselves- from the pain and the hurt, and to give us hope, peace, and life.
Plan to join us this Thursday night at the home of the Tuhacek's, from 7:00pm-8:30pm, for senior high small group. This week will be a little different than past weeks. On Thursday, we will be spending time outside around the fire, simply sharing our stories of hurt and pain. We will also be looking at Isaiah 40:25-31, and focusing on verse 31 and the word "hope." Come ready to grow in the midst of life's pain and hurts. We hope to see you there!
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