Sunday, October 6, 2024

Disappointment is a part of life! Live long enough and you are bound to experience a gap between your expectations and reality. And although we can’t escape it, we can determine how we respond to it and aim to react out of love, even toward those who disappoint us. 

Today, spend time reflecting on the following questions, what we can learn from Jesus regarding disappointment, and how he calls us to respond. 

Discussion Questions:

• Icebreaker: When was the last time you were disappointed?
• How do you usually respond to disappointment?
• Read Matthew 5:43-48. Why might people find these verses disappointing? What about these verses challenges you the most?
• What does Jesus teach us in the verses about our response?
• What simple, gracious act of kindness can you do for those who may be opposed to you?

Prayer:
Lord, this world is filled with disappointment. Sometimes, I don’t understand why you allow it, but I do know you have promised to restore our world. Until then, you invite me to respond differently to disappointment and respond in a way that reflects your love for me. Today, Lord, fill me with your grace and help me be intentional to love even those who disappoint me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Series Theme Verse:
John 16:33
"I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”

This post was written by Kelly Pagel, the Director of the LivingItOut.