Jeremiah 3:19-20 & Isaiah 3:16-21

Grow

• “Exile” is a recurring theme in the Bible. Learn why, in this video.

• Read about “shalom” in this article. Meditate on this peace that only God’s presence can bring.

Share

• Even as the kingdom declined, the prophets bore witness to God. How can you bear witness to God’s love and ways to those around you this week?

• What aspects of God’s character are displayed in this part of his story? How will knowing this about God impact how you treat those in your life today?

Connect

• How have you seen God’s presence in your life, even in times of “exile?” How did that encourage you?

• How can we help one another maintain hope and peace even when we are in the midst of brokenness, pain, or consequences that sin brings?

• Explore Matthew 3:13-17 and John 3:22-36 together to prepare for next week’s sermon.

Joshua 1:5-9, 24:15, 1 Sam. 8:4-7, 2 Sam. 7:16

Grow

• Watch this video for a helpful overview of the rise and fall of God’s people during this time of judges and kings.

• Look up definitions for the word “king.” Journal your thoughts, comparing and contrasting these definitions with what the true King is like.

Share

• Joshua repeatedly commands God’s people to “be strong and courageous.” Share with someone this week how God’s presence brings you strength and courage.

• Spend time reflecting on ways you may be refusing the true King in your life. Then honestly share with a friend and pray for one another.

Connect

• God’s people asked Samuel to anoint a king for them like all the nations. As Christians today, how can we still stumble by trying to be like “other nations?”

• Discuss ways we desire the true King’s rule and ways we cling to self-rule. How can self-rule lead to “doing what is evil in the sight of the Lord?”

• Explore Jeremiah 3:19-20 and Isaiah 3:16-21 together to prepare for next week’s sermon.

Psalm 143

Grow

• For an in-depth look at the book of Psalms, consider this helpful BibleProject video.

• Listen to the song, “Revive me,” as an additional way to meditate on Psalm 143.

Share

• Psalm 143 is a prayer of David. Pick a section to share with someone who needs God’s mercy and help this week, commit to praying these verses for them.

• Rewrite verse 10-11 in your own words. How can you share these Truths through your words and actions this week?

Connect

• Do you have a teachable heart (v.10)? What “level ground” do you need the good Spirit to lead you on?

• Share honestly about a time when you felt crushed, persecuted, or overwhelmed. Personalize v.11 as a prayer for one another.

• Explore 1 Samuel 8:1-7 and 2 Samuel 7:1-6 together to prepare for next week’s sermon.

Exodus 3:1-15; 33:12-34:10

Grow

• Watch this video to learn what took place between God’s covenant with Abraham and Moses leading God’s people out of Egypt.

• To better appreciate “God’s glory” check out this article.

Share

• God’s desire has always been to dwell with His people. How can you practically show those around you this week that God dwells in you through his Holy Spirit?

• Pay attention to the evidence of God’s glory all around you. Make a point of telling someone this week about His glory and goodness!

Connect

• Moses didn’t want the promised land if God’s presence wasn’t there. What desires in your life can compete with God’s presence?

• How has God revealed his glory to you? What practices help you to focus on God’s and maintain a hunger for His presence?

• Explore Psalm 143:1-12 together to prepare for next week’s sermon.