But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.  Isaiah 40:31

God is in control. He does not actively generate suffering.

DISCUSSION:

    Does the truth that God is in control bring you comfort when you are suffering?

    Is this hard for you to believe?

God is inviting you to trust Him and come near to Him.

DISCUSSION:

    In what ways is God inviting you to trust Him during this time of pandemic? 

    Is waiting hard for you?

We're called to be agents of change, peace and hope as followers of Jesus. We have an opportunity to be life-giving and culture-shaping. 

DISCUSSION:

    What are some ways that you have seen followers of Jesus be agents of hope?

    How can you be an agent of hope and peace now?

In the Bible Job asked the why questions. He poured out his complaints to God. David does the same thing throughout the Psalms. God responds to them in a way that shows us He considers this a form of prayer. He can handle our why questions. He prefers that we complain to Him rather than turning away from Him and staying silent.

We can trust and complain at the same time. 

DISCUSSION:

    What are some of your why questions?  Have you been afraid to voice them to God? 

Surrender comes when you reach the place of recognizing that you cannot fix, solve or explain the circumstances.  Surrender happens in the midst of suffering. 

DISCUSSION:

    What would surrender look like for your life right now? 

    What would a good next step be for you?  Here are some things to consider:

        Is it time to give your life to Jesus and begin your journey of trusting Him? If so, please let us know at pastors@thecrossing.church

        Do you need to get in a group and experience community and support in a deeper way? 

        Is there a class or Bible Study you need to join?

    Please go to thecrossing.church/hopenow for a list of great next steps!

I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand on the earth. Job 19:25

When your are experiencing stress and anxiety, say that verse out loud to remind yourself that this is not the end.

Suffering does not get the last word. God gets the last word. Wrap yourself around the strength of God and trust Him in the waiting. 

Your wait will end. And you will be stronger on the other side. 

Reflect