Table Talk | July 27-28

1. God chooses to relate to us as a loving Father.

2. Our Heavenly Father knows we need discipline, and it’s for our good.

3. Pain is a necessary, purposeful, and productive aspect of God’s fathering.

1. How has your understanding of God as Father evolved over time? Share any experiences that have shaped this view.

2. Pastor Todd’s initial view of God was as a judge. Have you ever struggled with a similar perspective? How has it changed?

3. Read Romans 8:14-17. What stands out to you about our relationship with God as described in these verses?

4. How do you typically respond to discipline or correction in your life? How might viewing it as evidence of God’s love change your perspective?

5. Discuss the difference between discipline as training and discipline as punishment. How does this distinction impact your view of God’s role in your life?

6. Share a time when you experienced pain or hardship that later produced growth or positive change in your life. How did you see God working through that situation?

7. How can we support and encourage one another during times of discipline or hardship?

1. Reflect on a current challenge in your life. Write a prayer asking God to reveal His purpose and help you grow through it.

2. Practice viewing difficulties as opportunities for growth rather than punishment. Each day this week, identify one challenging situation and consider what God might be teaching you through it.

3. Reach out to someone in your life who is going through a difficult time. Offer encouragement and support, reminding them of God’s love and purpose.

4. Memorize Hebrews 12:11 as a reminder of God’s purpose in discipline.

5. Create a list of ways God has shown His fatherly love to you. Reflect on this list when you face challenges or doubt His love.

Heavenly Father, thank you for your perfect love and your desire to help us grow. Help us to trust in your goodness, even when we face difficulties. Give us the strength to endure hardship as discipline and the wisdom to learn from it. May we support one another as we seek to become more like Christ. In Jesus’ name, Amen.