Still Standing
Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People? | Week 4
November 3, 2024 | By Jesse DeYoung
Ever wonder why a good God would let bad things happen? In this message, Jesse tackles this question head-on, sharing insights from Romans 8 and real-life examples of faith through adversity. We’ve all faced moments of pain, loss, or brokenness where trusting Jesus feels almost impossible. But what if God is using these trials to grow our faith? Join us as Jesse dives deep into what it truly means to rest in Jesus, not by avoiding struggles, but by letting Him transform us through them. This message is for anyone wrestling with life’s hardest questions.
Set List
Small Group Questions
Trust Jesus
Jesse DeYoung
Nov 3rd, 2024
// Bible References: Eccl 3:11; Rev 21:4; Rom 8:1-3, 9-11; 14-17, 26-28, 31-39; Matt 11:28-29; Eph 6:4
// Community Question: What does it take for someone to earn your trust?
// Discussion Questions
- Jesse discussed how many of us struggle to trust Jesus when we face hardships like illness or loss, leading to feelings of doubt. Why do you think it's difficult for people to trust God during tough times? Can you think of a specific time when you found it hard to trust God, and what helped or hindered your faith in that moment?
- Jesse emphasized that trusting Jesus helps us navigate life's challenges rather than letting circumstances dictate our faith. How does trusting Jesus change our perspective on the hardships we face? Can you think of a way you're currently facing a challenge? What would it look like to rely on Jesus more during this time?
- Read Romans 8:28. Jesse noted that our sufferings are not pointless, and that God can turn them into glory. In what ways can our suffering be transformed into something meaningful? How can you reframe current or past experiences of suffering in your life to see them in light of God’s purpose?
- Read Romans 8:31-39. This scripture highlights that God’s support is unwavering, and Jesus’ intercession for us signifies His love and backing during trials. How does this verse provide you with comfort or strength? How does remembering that God is on your side influence your daily decisions and interactions with others?
- The message points out that even circumstances meant to conquer us can instead become tools God uses for His glory. What does being 'more than conquerors' through Christ mean to you in your daily life? Have you faced situations where you felt overwhelmed but later saw a positive outcome? What did you learn from that experience?
// Challenge: Jesse challenged us this week to take a step of faith, accept Christ, and be baptized as a public statement of faith. If you have been baptized, how did that moment affect your relationship with Jesus? If you haven't, what might hold you back from taking that step?