The Global Kingdom

Discussion Guide 

Pastors Sergey and Natasha are living in Israel where living in war is the norm. During violence and chaos, they choose to find strength and joy. Finding their hope in Christ allows them to be a light to the community. We can be encouraged by their faithfulness to trust in God through the difficult seasons of our lives.  

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. Share a critter you are afraid of, like snakes, spiders, or mice. What is your initial reaction to a stressful situation? 

2. Strength and Discipline. Read Joshua 1:9, 2 Timothy 1:7, and Romans 8:14-15. What does a Spirit-lead life look like for you? Have you created a routine that will set you up to be prepared for the difficult seasons in your life?  

3. Joy. Read Matthew 5:14-16. How do you plan on using the gifts God has given you? How did Sergey and Natasha’s perspective encourage you?   

4. Unity. Read Ecclesiastes 4:12. Why is it better to have someone in your life, rather than be alone? What steps can we take to become more unified with those around us? 

5. Action Step: This week, we discussed having strength, joy, and unity while facing life’s challenges. Which of these three topics do you struggle with the most? Take time to reflect on how you can practically grow in that area this week. Pray and ask God to guide your actions to glorify Him!