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For the Newsletter Growing Deeper email click here.https://mailchi.mp/a8610c44103b/weekly-connection
Sermon study guide for next-level growth.
Sermon Overview
This past Sunday, we explored the powerful message of Psalm 46, reminding us that God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Pastor Nick discussed how this psalm encourages us to have unshakeable courage, unconditional joy, and unexplainable peace, even in the face of life's greatest challenges. The psalmist highlighted how our faith in God's presence and power can sustain us through any circumstance, just as it did for the people of Judah when faced with the Assyrian threat.
Sermon Series:
Psalms of the Summer
God is With Us
Key Passage: Psalm 46
Key Takeaways
- We can have unshakeable courage because God is our refuge. No matter what storms of life we face, our God is stronger than any fortified city.
- We can experience unconditional joy because God is with us. His presence in our lives is like a life-giving river that brings flourishing and gladness.
- We can find unexplainable peace by recognizing God's control over all things. When we "be still and know that He is God," we surrender to His sovereignty and find true peace.
Discussion Questions
- Pastor Nick mentions that we are born with fears. What are some fears you struggle with, and how does the message of Psalm 46 address those fears?
- Reflect on verse 1: "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." Share a time when you experienced God as your refuge during a difficult situation.
- The Psalm talks about not fearing even when the earth gives way. How can we cultivate this level of trust in God when facing major life upheavals?
- Discuss the imagery of the river in verse 4. How does the idea of God's presence bringing gladness resonate with your own spiritual experience?
- The sermon connects this Psalm to the gospel, with Jesus as our "Emmanuel - God with us." How does knowing Jesus enhance your understanding of God's presence in your life?
- The sermon mentions surrendering to God's sovereignty. What areas of your life do you find most challenging to surrender to God's control?
Practical Applications
- Identify Fears: Write down your top three fears. Next to each fear, write a truth from Psalm 46 that counters that fear.
- Gratitude Journal: Each day, write down one way you've experienced God as your "refuge and strength."
- Community Support: Share with the group one area where you need God's peace or strength. Commit to praying for each other in these areas throughout the week.
- Memorization: Choose a verse from Psalm 46 to memorize this week. Share it with the group next time you meet.
Closing Prayer
Thank God for being our refuge, strength, and ever-present help. Ask for His help in cultivating unshakable courage, unconditional joy, and unexplainable peace in our lives.