Heavenly Father:

I pray that as we look at hard situations and emotions this week, we look at them through Your lens, the Bible. Emotions are not always truth, and we often need clarity to navigate them rightly. We pray for that guidance. I pray for good and caring ears as we discuss these daily lessons in our small group.

In Jesus’ matchless name we pray, Amen.

Memory Verse

“All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.”2 Corinthians 1:3–4, NLT

Background

Emotions are an important part of who we are, and how we deal with our emotions is part of our sanctification. Understanding that emotions are not always truth can be key to living the way God intends us to live. God is sovereign in all areas of our life, and emotions are no exception.

Personal Response to God

As a believer, understanding your emotions from a biblical perspective helps to ground you in the truth and keeps you from being “tossed to and fro by the waves” (Ephesians 4:14, ESV). The strength that comes from biblical wisdom and discernment will also enable you to help others in their times of trouble. Jesus is our first and best example: “Surely our griefs He Himself bore, And our sorrows He carried; Yet we ourselves esteemed Him stricken, Smitten of God, and afflicted” (Isaiah 53:4, NASB). The Bible also teaches us to help others through empathy, as stated in Romans 12:15, NASB: “Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.”

Spend time in prayer this week that God will lead and correct you as you understand your emotions. When you are with others, pray that the Holy Spirit will bring to mind the perfect biblical responses to help a friend in need.

Journaling Questions
  1. What new insights did I learn from the online recorded teaching for this week’s lesson?
  2. How can I apply what I have learned in this lesson and through the teaching?

Study Guide Available

For the corresponding study guide, please contact Melissa Renner at melissar@stonebriar.org.