Week 2 – Faith: Even If
Discussion Guide
In every life, there will come hardships and hurts, trials and troubles. Jesus Himself said this would be so. Yet He also promised to be with us and respond to our faith. How do you hold on to faith, when God does not seem to hear, or the answer is long delayed? Let’s look at some verses that will help us.
What you will need: A Bible or your Bible app, a notebook, pen, and highlighter. The verses highlighted below are linked so that you can easily access them during your study time.
Jump Start
1. In “Little Boy,” Pepper is given a list to accomplish. What kinds of things are on the list? Do you think starting with actions might change our faith or hearts?
2. Much of the movie “Little Boy” revolves around this idea of a mustard seed. Read Matthew 17:14-20. What was the original problem in this passage? Why could the disciples not accomplish the healing? What do you imagine their attitudes where at the time, since Jesus gave them a clear reason for their failure? How are you encouraged personally by verse 20? Read Hebrews 11:1. Is it okay to have assurance and faith for things hoped for, even if God’s answer turns out to be “no”?
3. Read Mark 9:21-24. What In this corresponding account of the same father with a son who is afflicted by a demon, the exchange is between whom? Whose faith is necessary in this account? What part of this passage could you make your own prayer?
4. Read Daniel 3:17-18 and 2 Corinthians 12:9. Have you ever felt like you're praying the wrong way because your prayers aren't answered? When we do not hear from God, or we do not get the answer and results we asked for, how do you remain faithful?
5. Action Step: Does Pepper, accomplishing the list he is given, make God answer his request? Does accomplishing the list change anything? What one thing may be keeping you from allowing God to work in your life?
Deeper
6. If we were to make a list of spiritual disciplines that might lead to greater connection with God, do you think this would also lead to greater faith? What might it definitely lead to?
a. Proverbs 19:17:
b. John 7:24:
c. Galatians 3:26-28:
d. Colossians 4:2:
e. James 1:27:
f. Romans 15:7:
g. Micah 6:8:
h. Hebrews 10:25:
i. Matthew 22:37-39:
j. Deuteronomy 10:18:
k. Matthew 25:35-40: