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SMALL GROUP GUIDE

Even In the Silence: “The Power of Lament”

Scripture Focus: Habakkuk 1-2:1

ICEBREAKER

Talk about a time you experienced something unexpected—either pleasant or painful—how did you respond?

OR

Share a time where you depended on God’s character to get you through a difficult season. What did you learn about God during that process?

SERMON SUMMARY

In life, all of us will face unexpected circumstances that are bigger than we can handle. When these challenges come, questions can begin to surface. As we continue to study the profound conversation between Habakkuk and God, we see that God is not scared of difficult questions and are reminded that “…the righteous shall live by his faith.” (Habakkuk 2:4) God is in control of ALL things and Habakkuk’s expressions and response model how we can live by faith as we wait for God’s plan to unfold.

What part of Pastor David’s message stood out to you most?

INTO THE WORD

Read Habakkuk 1-2:1. Pastor David highlighted that when the unexpected happens, there are three steps we can take toward faith—Lament, Remember the character of God, and Meet with God—which of these do find the most difficult in the midst of trying times? Why?

Read Mark 14:36, Psalm 6:3, Acts 2:38, and 2 Corinthians 7:10. When we lament, we are not accusing God, but rather, acknowledging Him in our situation. How do these verses demonstrate The Power of Lament.

Read Habakkuk 2:12-14. How can remembering God’s character help to break through the silence and confusion we may experience during times of difficulty?

Read Habakkuk 2:1 and John 15:5. How can meeting with God affect our faith, even when we are experiencing grief, sorrow, or helplessness?

EMBRACE AND EMBODY

No matter the circumstance, we can trust that God is fully in control and has a plan for it. Our response to uncertainty should be to draw closer to the One that is certain—and at times—lament. Expressing yourself to God, repenting when needed, focusing on who He is, and seeking Him daily are ways to increase your faith and make God known to others who may be watching.

Seek God Daily: Memorize Isaiah 55:8-9 – “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, declares the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.”

OPTIONAL PRAYER PRACTICE

Read out loud the six characteristics of God discussed in this week’s sermon: God is everlasting, personal (both transcendent and immanent), sovereign, just and all-knowing, holy, and Creator. Ask the group members to quietly reflect on the characteristic that most sticks out to them, and have them write it down. Have the group members take turns praying out loud, thanking God for the characteristic they chose, and asking the Holy Spirit to help each group member focus on who He is, instead of difficult circumstances.

CLOSING PRAYER

Father, thank You for not being offended by our lament and that You walk with us through every circumstance. We ask that You help us focus on who You are instead of what we see around us. And when unexpected things happen, please help us to live by faith as we wait on You. In Jesus’ name, Amen!