ART OF EXPECTATION PART 10 SMALL GROUP STUDY GUIDE
Pastor Debbie delivers a sermon on the art of expectation, focusing on Hebrews 11:6. She explores the difference between human expectations and God's expectations, emphasizing that true biblical expectation comes through a relationship with God. Through her personal story of having miracle children and particularly her experience with her son Josiah who has Asperger's, she illustrates how God's plans and purposes often differ from our expectations but are ultimately for our good.
Intro Prayer
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather to discuss Your word, open our hearts and minds to understand Your expectations for our lives. Help us to see beyond our human desires and align our expectations with Your divine purpose. Guide our discussion and reveal Your truth to each person here. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Ice Breaker
Would you rather go forward in time or backward in time, and why?
Key Verses
Hebrews 11:6
Genesis 5:21-24
Questions
Intro Prayer
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather to discuss Your word, open our hearts and minds to understand Your expectations for our lives. Help us to see beyond our human desires and align our expectations with Your divine purpose. Guide our discussion and reveal Your truth to each person here. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Ice Breaker
Would you rather go forward in time or backward in time, and why?
Key Verses
Hebrews 11:6
Genesis 5:21-24
Questions
- How do you typically handle disappointment when your expectations aren't met?
- What's the difference between human expectations and godly expectations?
- How can we develop a relationship with God similar to what Enoch had?
- In what ways has God's plan for your life differed from your expectations?
- How do you distinguish between your desires and God's purpose for your life?
- What role does faith play in managing our expectations?
- How can we maintain our faith when facing seemingly impossible situations?
- What does it mean to you that God wants to reward us with His presence?
Life Application
This week, identify one area where your expectations might not align with God's purpose. Spend time in prayer asking God to reveal His perspective and purpose in this situation. Journal about how your view changes as you seek His presence rather than just the outcome you desire.
Key Takeaways
True expectation should be rooted in God's Word, not human desires
God's reward is primarily His presence and relationship with us
Our expectations should align with God's purpose and destiny for our lives
God often works through our challenges to fulfill His greater purpose
Having faith means believing God is able and has our best interests in mind
Ending Prayer
Lord, thank You for showing us that Your expectations for our lives are greater than anything we could imagine. Help us to trust in Your purpose and destiny for our lives, even when the path looks different than we expected. Give us the courage to walk in faith and the wisdom to recognize Your hand at work. In Jesus' name, Amen.
This week, identify one area where your expectations might not align with God's purpose. Spend time in prayer asking God to reveal His perspective and purpose in this situation. Journal about how your view changes as you seek His presence rather than just the outcome you desire.
Key Takeaways
True expectation should be rooted in God's Word, not human desires
God's reward is primarily His presence and relationship with us
Our expectations should align with God's purpose and destiny for our lives
God often works through our challenges to fulfill His greater purpose
Having faith means believing God is able and has our best interests in mind
Ending Prayer
Lord, thank You for showing us that Your expectations for our lives are greater than anything we could imagine. Help us to trust in Your purpose and destiny for our lives, even when the path looks different than we expected. Give us the courage to walk in faith and the wisdom to recognize Your hand at work. In Jesus' name, Amen.