Part 1 – The Sound of Silence
Discussion Guide
Our world is full of noise, of choices, and information. We seldom do “nothing.” We do not sit, think, or listen. Instead, we listen to music, podcasts, play games, or talk. Elijah, overwhelmed by his life and circumstances, finds that God is found in the silence.
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. What's the longest you've gone without doing anything? In fact, if you had to choose between a week without your phone or a week without your favorite food, which would you pick?
2. Read 1 Kings 19:7-8. Have you ever been exhausted and fed up with life? Have you ever felt God refreshing you? How did God prepare him for the journey? When have you waited on an answer from God for a long period, like 40 days? What does 40 days signify?
3. Read 1 Kings 19:9-10. When Elijah finally has a chance to get in front of God and he is asked ‘What are you doing here,” what does Elijah do? Is this your MO? Read 1 Kings 19:11-12. How was Elijah expecting God to reveal Himself? Instead, how did he hear God? Had God already been speaking to Elijah?
4. God speaks in the silence. Read these instances of how to hear from God. Jot down at least one “tip” from each verse.
a. Matthew 14:13:
b. Luke 6:12-13:
c. Luke 22:40-41:
5. Read 1 Kings 19:13-18. When God speaks clearly, what does He give Elijah?
6. Action Step: Would you be willing to treat your phone like a 90’s phone, attached to the wall and stationery, for one day a week? You can use it, but not carry it. Would you commit over the next 40 days to sitting in silence, working up to 15 minutes a day, focused on God?
Deeper
Here at The Cove, our mission is to Introduce our friends to Jesus, learn to follow Him, and Celebrate His Presence in our lives. We want you to be fully equipped with the Word of God by spending time with Him daily through prayer, hearing His direction, and through studying His Word. We believe this is how you will be equipped to make disciples.
To grow spiritually in 2024, we must start within ourselves, allowing the kingdom of God to rule and reign. Spend time with Him. Take time meditating on these verses:
James 1:19-21
Romans 12:2
Psalm 139:17
Isaiah 26:3
Psalm 37:7
Isaiah 30:1
Psalm 46:10
Psalm 19:14
Isaiah 40:31
2 Timothy 1:7
Psalm 141:3