3.15.20 Huddle
INTRO: This week we decided to hold off on starting our new series, “Friends.” With everything that has taken place over the last week or so, it seemed best to spend some time discussing the reality of the moment and the Christian response.
INTRO QUESTIONS:
- If you had access to a fully stocked Wal-Mart and could stock up on 3 things, what would it be?
- On a more serious note: How are you feeling in relation to the uncertainty that is going on surrounding the Corona virus? Are you anxious, peaceful, concerned?
SCRIPTURE ENGAGEMENT – PHILIPPIANS 4:6-7
INTRO: There is no chapter in the Bible titled, “How To Handle the Corona Virus.” Still, throughout the library of scripture we see numerous examples people relying on their faith to help them process difficult circumstances. Paul, the writer of the book Philippians, was well versed in handling suffering. In 2 Corinthians 11, Paul says he had been put in prison multiple times, been beaten, stoned, shipwrecked, hungry, etc. He KNEW suffering. He lived it on the regular. How does someone experience all of that and continue on . . . not merely surviving . . . but thriving with purpose and mission?
Paul gives us insight into that very question in his closing words to the church at Philippi. He says:
“6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
We want to spend some time breaking that down and allowing it to give us guidance as we try to process the current cultural climate.
- What stands out to you from these verses? As it was read, what word or phrase seemed to grab you more than the others? Why do you think that is?
4 THINGS WE CAN DO DURING UNCERTAIN TIMES
BE PRAYERFUL
- Looking back at our verses, why is prayer important in times of uncertainty?
- Do you find Paul’s claims true in your own life? Do you find (at least a moment) of peace during uncertainty when you spend time praying about it?
BE GRATEFUL
It is proven that gratitude has an effect of bringing about a better attitude and a sense of calm.
- How do moments of uncertainty remind us to be grateful?
- What are some of the things we often take for granted that have been surfaced by the Corona virus situation?
- What is one thing you can be thankful for today?
BE PEACEFUL
- How does uncertainty reveal where our peace actually comes from?
- What are some other places/things that we run the risk of relying on to provide us peace?
- Read Philippians 4:10-13: What is Paul trying to say in these verses?
BE CHARITABLE
The Early church was famous for their bold and charitable response to times of crisis, including epidemic. In fact, it is one of the things that made it known throughout the Roman world.
- How can the church stand out in a charitable way during this time?
- How can you and I personally be light and hope during this time?
PRAYER
As you close today, if you are comfortable, have one person pray for each of the four following things.
- Pray for wisdom—for sorting out truth from mistruth and how to respond
- Pray for One Life and other churches—trying to figure out what to do In this new reality
- Pray for Government—that God would give them wisdom
- Pray for Power—that God would do a miraculous work
PRACTICE
This week, spend some time reflecting on what you are grateful for. Make a list of 10 things. In addition, what do you realize that have you taken for granted? Make a list of 5 things. Close by reciting the words of Philippians 4:6-7. If you need to, write it down and carry it with you over the next few days. Then, re-read it when you feel anxious.
“6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”