Talk-It-Over

Talking through the message during the week helps you turn what God is saying into action steps. These talking points, questions, and scriptures are designed to help you take the next step. If you are leading a group through this guide, don’t feel like you have to answer every question. Pick out those questions that will stir up conversation and action among your group. 

Desperate For God

Psalm 63

① David’s Devastation : You are going to experience times when you are down and devastated.

UGD: University of God in the Desert. Each of us has experienced desert experiences. If you are willing, discuss a time when you were in the spiritual “desert” (maybe doubting God?) where God was teaching you a lesson. What lesson did you learn? (Note that this is NOT a time you were faithful while dealing with issues, but a time you doubted and were needed to be taught spiritual lessons.)

② David’s Desperation (1) : When you are down and devastated, run to God in desperation.

In your time of desperation in the “desert” how long did it take you to turn to God and then to see and learn God’s lesson for you? Before you turned to God and learned the lesson what or how were you attempting to rescue yourself from your desert?

③ David’s Concentration (2-8) : Take your eyes off the situation and fix your concentration on God.

• Reflect on God's Incredibleness
• Recall on God's Lovingkindness
• Remember God's Goodness (5)
• Rest in God's Faithfulness (6-7a)
• Rejoice in God's Nearness (7b-8)

Discuss how each of these points are necessary looking at your past and current times of either desperation or blessing.

④ David’s Expectation (9-11) : Live with the expectation that God is going to sort everything out.

Does this mean that God will reverse the natural consequences of our poor decisions? What does it mean?

NEXT STEPS

#1 : I choose to accept that in this life, I am going to face times of devastation.

#2 : In my time of devastation, I will choose to turn my concentration on God. I will set my gaze on Him and allow my soul to find satisfaction and joy in Him rather than in the things of this world which ultimately cannot satisfy.

#3: I will live with the expectation that, come what may, God is going to sort everything out in the end, no matter how things look in the moment.

• How can we pray for you?

Small Group Guidelines

Though we call these Basic Group Guidelines, these are also effective in all relationships and environments. We believe it is wise to observe these whether in a one-on-one conversation or in a group discussion.

• Guidelines give boundaries for people to operate within.

• They help with the flow and pace of the discussions.

• They help us value one another.

• They help people to be more comfortable sharing deep and meaningful things.

This is a Safe Group

Confidentiality is key, what is said in the group stays in the group. Be aware how you are affecting the environment: words, actions, and non-verbal communication. This needs to be a place where people feel comfortable opening up and sharing.

No Crosstalk

Be considerate of others as they are sharing. No side conversations, checking phone, responding to text or email, etc.

Listen

Let’s value one another by listening to what is being shared. Allow a pause after someone shares to allow them to finish and others to consider what was said. Eye contact and body posture play key roles in creating a positive or negative group environment.

No Rescuing or Fixing

We are not here to fix each other, Jesus does that part. Avoid the tendency to rescue when someone is struggling to get the words out or shares a struggle or conviction.

Use “I” Statements

It’s easy to talk about the issues of others or respond with “we”, “us”, “the church”. But for us to grow as disciples and build relationship we want to use “I” statements.

Don’t Overtalk

We want to create time for all members of the group to participate in the discussion. Be careful not to always be the first responder or regularly give long responses.

Fight for Relationship

It’s not “if” conflict or hurt feelings will happen, but “when”. We commit to fight for relationship with each other. Go to that person and share your struggle or seek wise advice if you are not sure how to handle the conflict.