Key Scriptures

Give your burdens to the LORD, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall. Psalms 55:22

Don’t love money; be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, “I will never fail you. I will never abandon you.” Hebrews 13:5

So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you must endure many trials for a little while. These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world. 1 Peter 1:6-7

For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11

Start talking. Find a conversation starter for your group.

• Have you ever had the thought “God why?”
• Have you wondered why bad things happen to good people?

Start thinking. Ask a question to get your group thinking.

• Which part of the message was most impactful for you and why?
• What do you do when things around you look hopeless?
• Where do you get your greatest strength and encouragement? Through prayer, a friend, spouse, scripture, or other?

Start sharing. Choose a question to create openness.

• Do you really believe has a plan for your life?
• Do you feel God is really in control?
• What are some ways you can encourage someone going through difficult times?
• What does it mean to you to bear one another’s burdens?

Start praying. Be bold and pray with power.

Jesus I know you are in control. You have a plan for my life and you are going before me and alongside of me on this journey. Thank you for interceding on my behalf. Help me to bear the burdens of my brothers and sisters and minister to them in compassion and love. Give me a word of encouragement for someone in need. Amen.

Start doing. Commit to a step and live it out this week.

• This week I’m going to cast my cares upon Jesus knowing He cares for me and can handle anything that I face.
• I am going to be an encourager to others and allow the Holy Spirit to work to me to bless someone in need.
• I will pray specifically for someone that God lays upon my heart this week.

Start the 5 Part Video Devotional Reclaiming Christmas