Understanding & Applying the Word
These questions are to help the group discuss the main points. Try to ask them in
a way that is conversational. Encourage people to ask other follow-up questions.
The Big Idea –(Don’t read to the group. This is for you to know to guide the discussion.)
Doubts, big and small, are part of everyone’s life. The way we face them can
pull us away from God, or deepen our relationship with Him. The psalmist
honestly admits his spiritual stumbling and gives us an example of how to
pray through it.
•
Your foothold of faith may be slippery at times (vs. 2), but why is it
better to have a slippery foothold than no foothold in Christ? How
does this relate to the faith of a mustard seed?
GROUP DISCUSSION GUIDE - Psalm 73
•
Do you ever question the unfairness in this world as the Psalmist
does in vs. 3? What injustices of this world do you question?
Gathering: Take some time to chat as people are arriving. Serve some light
snacks, or ask group members to bring some. As the leader, engage people
in conversation and introduce any new members. Once most people have
arrived, invite everyone to gather around in a circle.
•
In vs. 17 the psalmist writes about entering God's sanctuary and
finding some peace there. What or where are your sanctuaries of
God (for example, worship, sermons, silence, nature, etc)?
•
Verses 21-23 speak of a personal grievance and pain, yet holding
fast to the fact that God is holding his hand. Have you had a time
in life when you have hurt deeply, but clung to God's presence in
your life?
•
In the sermon, Pete said, “You never have to choose between
faith or no faith.” What does this mean?
•
Do you think God expects us to doubt sometimes? Is it possible
not to doubt? How can doubt be a good thing?
Getting to Know Each Other
Below is a suggested question for helping the group members get to know each
other.
What fun fall activities have you and your friends or family done so far? Any
funny or favorite stories?
Approaching the Word
Psalm 73 is a prayer for times when doubt threatens our faith. Do you
find the psalms helpful in teaching us how to pray through our feelings,
particularly when we have a crisis in our faith and life?
Before reading the text, the leader should pray for God to teach you all and
guide your thoughts as you study his word.
Ask someone in the group to read Psalm 73.
Praying for One Another
The group can also share any specific prayer requests. As we first pray
silently as a group, express to God any doubts with which you may be
struggling. Ask Him to hold you in His hand and guide you in his counsel.
The leader can close in prayer, or ask other members to pray over the
specific requests.