Are you meeting regularly with a discussion group? If you meet just once a week, you can find all of this week’s discussion questions in one place right here.

Question:

What helps you keep your cool in a panic situation?

Reading:  

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:4-6)

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. (Philippians 4:7-9 ESV)

Question:  

What do you think these other defences represent?

Question:

Why is Paul’s reference to himself as an example not egotistical? In what situations would it be right and even necessary to offer yourself as a model?

Challenge:

Make a list of good, positive, happy things in your life. Focus on whatever is:

  • True:
  • Honorable:
  • Right:
  • Pure:
  • Lovely:
  • Commendable:

Spend the rest of your commute focusing your thoughts on them, and in prayer to thank God for them. If you find your mind drifting to negative things, intentionally refocus your thoughts on the things in this week’s list. If it helps, use an object to remind you. For example, have a Bible or cross in your hands, or nearby, and whenever you drift to negativity, touch that item to remind you to bring your mind back to God as well.