Love in Sorrow Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. Romans 5:3–5 Rejoice in our sorrows What does God’s love cultivate in our sorrows? - Perseverance - Character - Hope May 24, 2020 | Brian SuterWant to go deeper? Check out the attached discussion questions to engage more with the sermon. Romans 5:1–5 James 1:2–4; 12 2 Corinthians 1:2–7 I Peter 4:12–16 2 Peter 1: 5–8 Bible Reading Plan Join us in reading the Bible together. The Bible Reading Plan is a way to incorporate reading the Bible into your week. Each day read a passage and take a few moments to reflect. These verses are chosen by our staff and designed to complement the Sunday message. Reflection questions: What does it say? What does it mean? How can I live this out today? Parenting Webinar Pastor Joel Johnson will host this conversation with Dr. Tim Johanson, author of “Gist: The Essence of Raising Life-Ready Kids.” Learn the parenting practices that work to produce kids ready for whatever they will experience in life. Wednesday, May 27, 8:00-8:45pm. Register online. Next Gen Summer Updates For the safety of our kids and students, we’ve made adjustments to our upcoming programs. But nothing can change how excited we are for all God will do this summer! • VBS will now be a free virtual experience taking place June 15-19. • Student trips to LA, Colorado and the MSM Missions Experience have been cancelled. • Decisions on summer camps are still pending. We will continue to have ongoing opportunities for kids, MSM, and HSM students, as well as a Student Serve Week. For more information, visit westwoodcc.org. May 24, 2020Don’t Waste Your Sorrows Love in Sorrow Sunday, May 24 1. In this season of uncertainty, what gives you hope? 2. What is one event in the past that has shaped who you are today? 3. The title of this sermon series is “Don’t Waste Your Sorrows”. What comes to your mind as you reflect on this phrase and any past or current sorrow or suffering in your life? 4. Sorrows we walk through are opportunities to encounter God’s love. How do you respond when you experience sorrow and suffering in your life? 5. Love is a word that seems to be used frequently in our world today. It can be used when describing a food, an experience and feelings for a person. What is the first word that comes to your mind when you hear the word “LOVE”? 6. Read 1 John 4:7-8 as a group. “Agape” is a Greek word used to define God’s love. It is a spontaneous, automatic love. It is not an emotion but an aggressive, benevolent, sacrificial, outgoing good will. How does “agape love” differ from your answer in #5? 7. “All the circumstances of this life are arranged for this one purpose: To enable one to learn Agape love in order to administer the law of love in eternity.” - Paul Billheimer Reflect on this quote. How does it change your perspective on life and the circumstances of life? 8. Read Romans 5:3-5 What do you see in these verses as you reflect on suffering in your life? 9. Your suffering and sorrow is unique to you. We don’t rejoice about our sorrows. We rejoice while IN them. How are these two phrases differ? What would rejoicing IN your sorrows look like for you in your unique circumstances? 10. God’s Agape love cultivates 3 things in us through suffering. 1. Perseverance- Steadfastness or cheerful, patient endurance that is used to expand our ability to face hardship. 2. Character- We are broken through our suffering. Jesus, through the outpouring of his Agape love, puts the pieces of your life back together in the development of HIS character. You become a better you. 3. Hope- Expectation or belief that desired results will be met while we face difficulties. Which of these is most encouraging to you as you face your unique suffering or sorrow today? Next >