Small Group Discussion Guide

Message Details

• Sermon Series Name: Flourishing
• Message Title: Hope
• Short Summary: In a world where struggle seems more familiar than flourishing, Pastor Elliott's message this week explores how true flourishing is found not in the absence of struggle but in its presence. Drawing from Romans 8, we learn that our current sufferings are incomparable to the glory that awaits us. Through hope, help from the Holy Spirit, and God's overarching plan, we can navigate life's challenges with faith and anticipation.

Icebreaker Question

• If you could choose one superpower to help you through life's struggles, what would it be and why?

Review of the Previous Week’s "I Will" Statement

• Reflect on last week's "I Will" Statement "I will run to the Father in prayer with the difficulties and brokenness of my life."  What challenges did you face in keeping it? How did you see God at work in your life during this time?

Five Discussion Questions (Core Focus)

1. Reflecting on Struggle and Scripture:
   • Romans 8:18 speaks of our present sufferings not being worth comparing to future glory. How does this perspective change the way you view your current struggles?
   • Context: The message highlighted that struggle is part of the journey due to sin's presence in the world.
   • Life Application: How can this understanding help you find peace in your current situation?
2. Personal Stories of Struggle:
   • Describe a time when you faced a significant struggle. What emotions did you experience, and how did you see (or not see) God at work during that time?
   • Context: Rodney shared personal stories of marital and health struggles, emphasizing the reality of suffering even as a follower of Jesus.
   • Life Application: How can sharing your story with others provide encouragement and hope?
3. Hope in the Midst of Waiting:
   • Rodney's message emphasized hope as something we do not yet have. How do you maintain hope when the outcome is uncertain?
   • Context: Like a mother waiting for childbirth, we wait for the fulfillment of God's promises.
   • Life Application: What practical steps can you take to cultivate hope in your daily life?
4. The Role of the Holy Spirit:
   • How have you experienced the Holy Spirit's help in your life, especially during times of weakness or uncertainty?
   • Context: The Holy Spirit intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express.
   • Life Application: How can you become more aware of and reliant on the Holy Spirit's presence and guidance?
5. God's Sovereignty in Struggle:
   • Romans 8:28 assures us that God works all things for the good of those who love Him. How does this truth impact your view of personal challenges?
   • Context: The message highlighted that God doesn't waste any part of our struggles.
   • Life Application: How can you trust in God's plan even when you can't see the big picture?

This Week’s "I Will" Statement

• "I will wait with hope, believing that God is working even in the waiting." This week, is there one specific step you can take to trust God more deeply in an area of struggle?

Prayer Prompts

1. Prayer Requests: Invite participants to share personal prayer requests.
2. Hope and Help: Pray for the ability to maintain hope and recognize the Holy Spirit's help in times of struggle.
3. Trust in God's Plan: Pray for trust in God's sovereignty and His ability to use our struggles for good.

Rewatch the Message

• For further reflection, you can rewatch the message at www.pathwaychurch.com/messages.