| Open The Scriptures Read Ephesians 3:14-19 slowly. What is Paul praying for? What physical and spiritual posture is Paul taking in this passage? Hebrew poetry is used at length in the wisdom books (Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon). Why do you think God used the poetic language of the heart to teach us about wisdom? Read Job 1:6-12 slowly. What stands out to you about God allowing Satan to take away Job’s family, health, and wealth? How does witnessing that cosmic interaction make you feel about the things we suffer on earth? Read Ecclesiastes 12:9-14 slowly. In light of all the heavy life lessons and vanity the Preacher lays out, what is the ultimate, bottom-line commandment he ends with? Open Your Lives The Depths (Job): When someone in your life is suffering, how do we typically respond? Based on Job, what does it look like to offer someone a “Presence” rather than unhelpful platitudes? The Heights (Psalms): The sermon spoke about honest lament as an act of high worship. What would it look like for you this week to bring a raw, honest lament to God in prayer or in a journal? The Widths (Proverbs): Proverbs calls for steady, everyday wisdom. What is one small habit you could start this week to practice “a long obedience in the same direction” in your relationships, finances, or work? The Lengths (Ecclesiastes): Ecclesiastes invites us to let go of fruitless pursuits. What is one thing you’re holding onto because it promises meaning, and how might you shift that energy toward growing your relationship with God? The Goal (Song of Solomon): We learned that God desires a dogged, relentless intimacy with us. How does viewing your faith as a passionate pursuit of Christ—rather than just a list of rules—change the way you approach your wee |
| The Bridge Church at Bear Creek |
