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Scripture and questions for study and reflection:

Read 2 Corinthians 1:8-11.

1. Pastor Mick (ala Rick Warren) described our current situation in the world like Whack-a-Mole; every time we think one problem is solved, another one pops up. Do you agree with this? How is your personal life sometimes like this as well?

2. In today\\u2019s passage, Paul describes all of the troubles he\\u2019s experienced, even to the point of feeling like he was given a death sentence. How does hearing about Paul\\u2019s situation bring comfort to you in difficult times?

3. Paul says, \\u201cBut this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead.\\u201d He also said, \\u201cHe has delivered us from such peril, and he will deliver us again.\\u201d Do Paul\\u2019s words about his experience bring you comfort? Why/why not? Have you experienced God \\u201cdelivering you from peril\\u201d in the past?

4. Pastor Mick said we can lean on Jesus for help in times of trouble. He indicated three things we need to do to receive this help are Confession, Petition and Congregation. What did he mean by these three things and why are they important?

5. Why is humility so important? How can a lack of humility (pride) be a roadblock to all that God wants to do in your life?

6. How might God help us through other people in our times of trouble? Is it easy to accept help from others? Why/why not?

7. Pastor Mick made the comment, \\u201cIn times like these (pandemic, racial injustice, etc.), Jesus is all we got, and Jesus is all we need.\\u201d What do you think he meant by that? Do you agree? Why/why not?

8. The Message translation of Matthew 5:3 (Blessed are the poor in spirit) reads, \\u201cYou\\u2019re blessed when you\\u2019re at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and his rule.\\u201d How might this understanding help us in times like these?

Prayer for the Week:

Lord, we confess that some of the problems in the world (and in our lives) are unmanageable and we are powerless to fix them on our own. We humbly come to your throne of grace asking for your help. Work in and through us, and those all around us, to bring forth hope, health and healing in the world. We confess, Lord, that we need more of you and less of us to solve these problems. Deliver us once again, Lord, by your grace and through our faith, so that many will give thanks for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many. We pray all of this in the strong name of our risen Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ. Amen.