Text: Daniel 3:16-23
- Have you ever needed to fix something, but you didn't have the right tool? What did you do?
- Talk about a time when an unexpected accident, loss, or tragedy happened that, in an instant, changed your life.
- In your own words, describe your definition of "suffering." Read I Peter 4:12 and discuss the reasons why we act surprised when we suffer. Why do some Christians suppose life should be easy?
- Many people ask "Why does God allow suffering?" Justin said there is an underlying question beneath that question; "Why do you think God owes you an explanation?". What are your thoughts about that? (To see God's answer to Job when he asked "why?" read Job 38 and 39)
Break up into two to three groups so everyone will have an opportunity to think through and answer these questions.
Daniel 3:17 - God is able.
* Where in my life have I been doubting that God cannot meet my need?
Daniel 3:17 - God is willing.
* Have I been living from an attitude of faith from the revealed will of God?
Daniel 3:18 - I am confident and submissive. ("What if" to "Even if")
* Is God really enough for me, and what does that actually mean?
Close praying for each other to be confident and submissive as each person possibly has, is, or will walk through suffering.
For further study: Look up and read Psalm 88 and then contrast the Psalmist's words with Isaiah 43:2-3a, and Deuteronomy 31:6. How can you relate to both contrasting passages?