Job 19:25; James 5:10-11; Ruth 1; Esther 2; 2 Corinthians 11:23-28; Philippians 4:11-13
Memory Text: Psalm 46:1-3:
[1] God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. [2] Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, [3] though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.
Examples of those who endured trial and tragedy but maintained hope.
- Job
- Joseph
- Naomi
- Esther
Several Bible texts suggest that bad experiences produce good results. (E.g. Romans 5:3 tribulation produces patience, 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 God comforts us in our trials so we can comfort others, 2 Corinthians 1:8-9 Paul reinterprets challenges as way to learn to trust in God, 2 Timothy 1:11-12 Paul not ashamed to suffer since he knows in whom he believes)
- Is bad necessary for good to be discovered and experienced?
Being content with our circumstances (Philippians 4:11-12)
- Does this approach not risk complacency?
- How does one balance passivity and discontent?
Questions about stress and our how to cope with it.
- Do reminders of hope actually deny the experience of those who are suffering?
- What of situations that are, in fact, unchangeable and thus hopeless?
- How can we balance bearing another’s burdens with pointing them to the eternal future?
- How can we remain engaged in the present yet attached to eternity?
- Does hope for eternity disengage us from the present?
- Do individuals differ in their capacity to endure stress and hardship?
