First listen to the sermon (posts Sun. afternoon). Then use the ideas below to help you and your group apply what the Lord is teaching you. Icebreaker idea: Read the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in Daniel 3:13-27 (read full chapter for more context if you wish). What emotions does the story stir in you? What is important about verse 18?

A way to pray: Based on what is shared in the group discussion below, pray for each other to grow in how we respond to suffering...that the way we suffer would cause those around us to ask about the hope that enables us to handle suffering well (see 1 Peter 3:15).

For discussion:

• Treasuring God: How does suffering reveal what really matters most to us? How does treasuring God help us in our suffering?
• Being Transformed: What does it mean to rejoice as we share in Christ’s sufferings? What does it look like practically to trust our Creator and do good even when we suffer?
• Loving Others: Why would our sin against others (e.g. murder/anger, stealing/envy, doing evil, and meddling) cause suffering not just for them but also for us? Why is this kind of suffering to be avoided?
• Pursuing Unity: How can suffering draw us closer to Christ and to one another? How can we help each other suffer in a way that is good for us and honors God?