Week 22:

PAIN & SUFFERING

For the first 30 minutes, please enjoy a meal together as a group. This is an intentional time set aside for fellowship. Eating together is a family activity, and helps us become like a spiritual family. This is one simple way we practice doing what Jesus did.

1/3rd

  • Pray for God to train up the group through His Word and Holy Spirit.

  • Ask: “What are you thankful for that God did this week?” (Have everyone share)

  • Ask: Based on the previous 3/3rds we did (Have everyone share):

    • “How did you obey what God taught you to do?”

    • “Who did you teach what God taught to you?”

  • Ask: “Does anyone need help this week? (meals, service, finances, etc.)

  • Ask: “What would you like prayer for?” (Have everyone share; everyone pray for the person on their right)

  • Focus on the Gospel: Read 1 John 4:7-16

    • Take communion as a group to celebrate this gospel passage.

    • Read 1 Corinthians 11:23-28 for communion instructions. Follow the Lord’s pattern and examine yourself before partaking.

    • Tell the group that everyone is to try to memorize the entire passage. You’ll have two months to memorize it.

YOU ARE ENTERING MID SESSION OF PRACTICING THE WAY. PLEASE IGNORE THE REFERENCES TO PRIOR MATERIAL.

Discuss:

  • Can you tell one story of a painful experience you’ve been through that has been used for good in your formation?

  • How have you experienced God in times of pain and suffering?

  • Which of the three responses to emotional pain are you most inclined toward: deny, detach, or drug? What has that looked like in your life?

  • How will you begin dealing with your pain and suffering?

  • Make a plan and hold to it!

  • Set a time this week to meet with your “one,” in order to show them this video or simply teach them about how to deal with pain and suffering.

  • For more information on practicing the way, check out: practicetheway.org

Ask someone pray to close out your group’s time.