Here's a small group guide based on the sermon from 9/14,

Small Group Guide: Faith That Heals

Key Scripture: Mark 5:25-34

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Discussion Questions:

1. What stood out to you most from the sermon? Why?

2. "Miracles require faith." How have you seen faith play a role in your own life experiences?

3. Discuss the woman's persistence in reaching Jesus despite her circumstances. What obstacles do you face in pursuing Jesus?

4. How does our self-talk and the company we keep impact our faith? Share examples from your own life.

5. The sermon mentioned that many in the crowd were close to Jesus but didn't experience miracles. Why do you think that was the case?

6. Reflect on Mark's testimony. How have you seen God work in difficult career or life decisions?

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Key Takeaways:

1. Faith is essential for miracles and allows us to believe in a God who does the impossible.

2. We must press past pain, disappointment, and obstacles (including ourselves) to reach Jesus.

3. Our view of ourselves and Jesus greatly impacts our faith and ability to receive from Him.

4. Sometimes, standing firm in faith requires difficult decisions, but God is faithful.

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Practical Applications:

1. Daily Affirmation: Write down and speak aloud faith-affirming statements about God's power and love for you.

2. Faith Journal: Start a journal documenting moments where you've seen God work in your life, big or small.

3. Surrounding Yourself: Evaluate your close relationships. Are they encouraging your faith? If not, consider how to include more faith-building influences in your life.

4. Persistent Prayer: Choose one area in your life where you need a breakthrough. Commit to praying about it daily for the next month, believing that Jesus is the answer.

5. Faith in Action: Identify one situation where you need to step out in faith this week. Share with the group and commit to taking that step.

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Closing Prayer: Thank God for His faithfulness and ask for increased faith to trust Him in all circumstances.

Opening Question:
- What does the phrase "Jesus loves you" mean to you personally? Has its significance changed for you over time?

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Key Takeaways:
1. God has always loved us, even from the beginning of creation.
2. Nothing can separate us from God's love.
3. God is love - it's not just what He does, it's who He is.

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Discussion Questions:

1. The sermon mentions different reasons why people might come to church. What brought you here today, and how does that relate to God's love for you?

2. Read John 3:16 together. How does this verse demonstrate God's love? What does it mean for our lives?

3. The sermon discusses God's pursuit of Adam and Eve in Genesis 3:9. How does this example of God's love in the face of disobedience impact your view of His character?

4. Reflect on Romans 8:38-39. What are some things in your life that you feel might separate you from God's love? How does this passage address those concerns?

5. The parable of the lost sheep (Luke 15:4-7) illustrates God's personal love. How does it feel to know that God would pursue you individually?

6. The sermon mentions John's transformation from "Son of Thunder" to "the one Jesus loved." Can you share an example of how God's love has changed you or someone you know?

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Practical Applications:

1. This week, try to start each day by reminding yourself of God's unconditional love for you. How might this practice affect your daily life and interactions?

2. Choose one person in your life who might need to be reminded of God's love. Find a way to demonstrate or communicate God's love to them this week.

3. Reflect on how understanding God's love more deeply might change your approach to difficult relationships or situations in your life.

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Closing Prayer:
Thank God for His unchanging, unending love. Ask for His help in fully embracing and living in the reality of His love, and for opportunities to share that love with others.

Opening Question:
Share about a time when you felt alone or abandoned. How did that experience affect you?

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Key Takeaways:

1. Storms will come to everyone, regardless of their faith.
2. Jesus is always with us, even in the midst of our storms.
3. Jesus has authority over all circumstances in our lives.

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Discussion Questions:

1. The sermon mentions that "Even the most introverted people do not like to feel alone." Do you agree? How do you personally cope with feelings of loneliness?

2. The disciples followed Jesus' instructions to cross the lake, yet still encountered a storm. Have you ever experienced difficulties despite following God's guidance? How did you respond?

3. When the storm hit, the disciples asked Jesus, "Don't you care?" Have you ever felt like God doesn't care about your struggles? How can we maintain faith during such moments?

4. Jesus calmed the storm with just His words. What does this reveal about His nature and power? How can this truth impact our approach to life's challenges?

5. The pastor said, "Sometimes God will take you into the storm. Not to discipline you. But to disciple you!" What are your thoughts on this statement? Can you share an experience where a "storm" in your life led to spiritual growth?

6. How does the promise that Jesus is "with you always, to the end of the age" (Matthew 28:20) affect your daily life and decision-making?

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Practical Applications:

1. Take a few minutes to write down any "storms" you're currently facing. Next to each one, write "Jesus is here" as a reminder of His presence in every situation.

2. This week, intentionally pause several times each day to acknowledge Jesus' presence with you, especially in challenging moments.

3. Reach out to someone you know who might be going through a tough time. Remind them they're not alone and offer support.

Key Takeaways:
1. God's peace is different from worldly peace - it's lasting and perfect.
2. True peace comes from fixing our thoughts on God and trusting Him completely.
3. We need God's peace to fulfill our calling and navigate life's challenges.
4. The Holy Spirit helps us remember Jesus' teachings, including His promise of peace.

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Discussion Questions:
1. How does the world typically define peace? How is God's peace different?

2. The sermon mentions Isaiah 26:3. Read this verse together. What does it mean to keep our minds "stayed on" God?

3. Share a time when you experienced God's peace in a difficult situation. How was it different from worldly coping mechanisms?

4. The sermon states, "True and perfect peace isn't found in the absence of problems, perfect peace is found in the presence of God." How does this statement challenge or encourage you?

5. Read Philippians 4:6-7. How can we practically apply these verses to our daily lives?

6. What are some common things that rob us of peace? How can we combat these with God's truth?

7. How does understanding the role of the Holy Spirit (John 14:26) help us in maintaining God's peace?

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Practical Applications (Optional)
If one of these stands out, pick that one:

1. This week, start each day by writing down one of God's promises or attributes. Reflect on how this truth can bring peace to your current circumstances.

2. Media Fast: Choose one day this week to abstain from news and social media. Use that time to pray, read Scripture, or engage in peaceful activities.

3. Anxiety to Prayer: When you feel anxious this week, practice immediately turning that worry into a prayer, as instructed in Philippians 4:6-7.

4.  Place sticky notes with peace-related Bible verses in places you'll see throughout your day (e.g., mirror, car dashboard, desk).