Message Details

• Sermon Series Name: Hard Questions
• Message Title: Why Does a Loving God Allow Suffering?
• Short Summary: This message explores one of the most challenging questions of faith: why a loving God allows suffering. Through the story of Job, we learn that suffering is part of the human experience, but it can lead us closer to God. Pastor Elliott's message encourages us to be present for those who suffer, offering compassion rather than quick answers, and to find purpose in our own suffering by looking to Jesus, who suffered for a greater purpose.

Icebreaker Question

• If you could have any superpower to help alleviate suffering in the world, what would it be and why?

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

• Reflect on last week's commitment. "I will share my weakness to God and another Christ follower." What challenges did you face in fulfilling it? How did you see God at work in your life or the lives of others?

Five Discussion Questions (Core Focus)

1. Reflecting on Job's Story:
   • Question: How does the story of Job challenge or affirm your understanding of suffering?
   • Context: Job was a man who loved God and yet experienced immense suffering. Despite his trials, he remained faithful.
   • Life Application: Consider how you respond to personal suffering. What can you learn from Job's response to his trials?
2. Personal Suffering Stories:
   • Question: Share a time when you experienced suffering. How did it impact your faith journey?
   • Context: Rodney's message emphasized that everyone has a suffering story, and these stories often shape our faith.
   • Life Application: Reflect on how your suffering has drawn you closer to or further from God. What role did your faith community play during this time?
3. God's Role in Suffering:
   • Question: How do you reconcile the idea of a loving God with the existence of suffering in the world?
   • Context: Rodney highlighted that God allows suffering but also loves us deeply.
   • Life Application: How can you find peace in the midst of suffering, knowing that God is present and has a purpose?
4. Responding to Others' Suffering:
   • Question: How can you be a source of comfort and support to someone who is suffering?
   • Context: In his message, Rodney encouraged us to be present for those who suffer, offering our presence rather than answers.
   • Life Application: Identify someone in your life who is suffering and consider practical ways you can support them this week.
5. Finding Purpose in Suffering:
   • Question: How can suffering lead to spiritual growth and a deeper relationship with God?
   • Context: Jesus' suffering had a purpose, and our suffering can also have purpose when we trust in God.
   • Life Application: Reflect on a time when suffering led to personal growth or a deeper understanding of God's love.

This Week’s "I Will" Statement

• I will check in with someone I know who is hurting.

Prayer Prompts

1. Prayer Requests: Begin by asking group members to share any personal prayer requests.
2. Pray for Those Suffering: Pray for those in your life who are currently experiencing suffering, asking God to provide comfort and peace.
3. Pray for Compassion and Presence: Ask God to help you be a compassionate presence to those who are suffering, and to use your own experiences of suffering for His glory.

Rewatch the Message

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