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. When you were a child or student, what was one of the scariest things you had to do?
2. If you are a believer, did you assume accepting Jesus would make everything wonderful and your life would be perfect? Do you feel you were “oversold” on the benefits of choosing Jesus? Read John 16:33. What words suggest we might lose hope? What two things does Jesus promise when we are at that point?
3. Read Hebrews 11:1. What do sight and faith have to do with each other? How can faith alter your perception of what you see? “Giving up is a choice, just as choosing to believe is a choice.” What are some ways that bring you to the place of confidence and faith in what you believe will happen? How does God assist you?
4. Read Colossians 1:13-14. “Hope has a name and His Name is Jesus.” The biggest pit in our lives is the possibility of eternity separated from God. But He has already rescued us! If you feel comfortable, briefly share your rescue (salvation) story.
5. Consider this: Is there a situation where you could easily lose hope? Are you currently in a negative, hopeless mindset about this issue? Are you willing to “choose to believe” no matter what the circumstances look like? Would you be willing to share with your Life Group enough details so that they could pray with you?
Deeper
Throughout this movie, the miners’ words are key. Some were words of faith and trust in God, while others spoke only words of negativity, anger, and despair.
6. Break down these verses that speak of the power of our words. Copy and memorize any verses that speak to you.
a) Power for Healing: Proverbs 18:21, Proverbs 16:24, Proverbs 12:18
b) Power for Hope: John 6:63, Proverbs 12:25
c) Power to Speak for God:1 Peter 4:11, 2 Samuel 23:2, Isaiah 50:4, Jeremiah 1:9, Matthew 10:19
d) Power to Destroy: Proverbs 6:2, James 3:6, Proverbs 18:7
e) Power to Bring Joy: Proverbs 15:23, Proverbs 13:2
7. When you have finished reading the verses above, do an inventory of your own words. Call out any negative self-talk. What will you change this week? In what situation will you refuse to give up?