Small Group Questions

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We will be discussing the following sermon: When circumstances aren’t as we had hoped // Ezra 3-4

Read Psalm 31:9-10, 14-16.

• What does this Psalm teach us about prayer in times of trouble?

• In what ways does it show a balanced way to pray?

Read Ezra 1:1-5.

• What do these verses tell us about God’s dramatic fulfilment of prophecy at this point in history?

• How do you think this would have influenced the attitude of God’s people for the future?

Read Ezra 3:3-4.

• What was the significance of the first act the returned exiles took after arriving in Jerusalem?

• Why would the people of God prioritise worship over building the walls for security?

• In what ways did fear motivate their decision?

Read Ezra 4:1-3.

• What did the people of the land offer to do and how did God’s people respond?

• Was this a good decision? Why or why not?

• What practical steps can we take to ensure that we do not compromise our faith, similar to the people of God who refused help from their adversaries?

Read Ezra 4:4-5, 23-24.

• What was the response of the people of the land to the rebuilding efforts of the returned exiles?

• How do you think the people of God felt after they were forced to stop building for 15 years (when the prophetic expectation was that God supernaturally brought them back to rebuild the ruins)?

• In what ways can we prepare ourselves spiritually for the challenges that come when we choose to follow God’s calling?

Read Ephesians 6:10-12.

• What do these verses tell us about the true nature of the spiritual battle when facing challenges?

• What is our source of strength in the battle and how do we overcome?

Read Psalm 23:4 and Colossians 1:13, 3:3.

• What does Psalm 23:4 suggest about God’s presence during our trials and what difference does it make?

• What is the primary blessing and hope of the Christian life that sustains us in times of trouble?

• How can we overcome doubts and discouragement in the Christian life?

• How can we support one another in our struggles during difficult times to help maintain faith?

• How can we remain steadfast in prayer and trust in God during periods of disappointment and suffering?