|
|
|
|
|
This Bible study was designed so there could be as much group involvement as possible. Please try, as a leader, to involve each individual in the group as much as possible for reading, discussion, etc. This is a group Bible study; that means that the group learns from one another. As leader, you should resist the temptation to give all the answers to questions that are asked in this study. It is hoped that as a leader you would guide the participants through the lesson and engage them in a meaningful sharing and discussion. This Bible study has been designed to help God's people to apply God's unchanging Gospel to the spiritual concerns all Christians face as they confront the pain and suffering caused by changes in their lives and families. As you work through the lesson, ask God for the special sensitivity to the needs of all the people in the group. Some of them are hurting because of changes that have occurred in their lives. How would God have us adjust and cope to changes in our lives? One thing is certain we all have to deal with change in our lives whether we like to or not. The rate of change seems to be accelerating. It is not uncommon today to find the gap that once existed between generations now existing within the same generation. These fast changes in our culture are having their effect on all of us and our families. One thing that does not change is the Word of our Lord regarding His love for us through Christ Jesus. Our situations and stations in life may change, but God's promises to us remain steadfast and reliable. Be sure to point this out to your people throughout the lesson. The major text for this Bible study is in Genesis 25:19-34. The issues addressed are briefly:
All of this produced many changes in that marriage changes in the relationship between Isaac and Rebekah. All of a sudden they were parents of twins that were so different. Consider all the strife that their differences may have affected. Not just strife between the brothers, but also strife between Isaac and Rebekah, the new parents. Please allow plenty of time for the participants to discuss the few questions that are asked in the study, especially the question "When do you find it the hardest to trust God?" After everyone has shared the beautiful words of Romans 8:31-32 will give them assurance. Our identity as God's Children is so important as we face difficult changes in our lives. Ephesians chapters 1 and 2 of Paul's letter to the Ephesians Christians speaks of that special relationship that we have with God through Christ. The leader may want to read both of these chapters in order to get a better grasp of what it means to be a child of our Heavenly Father and what that identity means. We do have a glorious inheritance by virtue of our position in God's family. Knowing our identity can make all the difference in the world when we go through tough times in our lives. Romans 8:31-32 reminds us that God will never forsake us. He will never forsake His people for which He gave His only Son. He will see us through all the changes we will have to face in our lives. Philippians 4:11-13 assures us that in Christ we can do everything through God who gives us strength. By God's strength, we can adapt to changes that take place in our lives. God cares and when we know and trust God's care for us, it provides a wonderful confidence and security in our lives. Through this study of God's Word, it is anticipated that each member of the group will have a renewed knowledge and trust in God. Finally as you lead your group do so prayerfully! Depend on the Holy Spirit. Expect His presence. He will guide you and cause you to grow through His powerful Word. God will not let His Word return empty. Darold Reiner, Pastor The Church at Creston Lutheran Kalispell, MT 59901 reiner@centurytel.net |
|
|
