
SMALL GROUP STUDY GUIDE
Message Series: Parenting Through Proverbs
Message Title: “Thidwick, The Good-Hearted Moose”
Pastor Hugh pointed out in his message that “wise people are teachable in a world of fools.” In the independent years, when those over the age of 18 are considered by the law and the world to be grown up, we can be tempted to do what we want instead of what’s wise. Scripture cautions us to embrace God’s wisdom and advice for happy and successful lives.
Read aloud Proverbs 12: 15-16.
This passage draws a distinction between foolishness and wisdom. In v. 16, Solomon suggests it is better to be prudent and overlook an insult rather than showing your annoyance.
Are you more likely to show your annoyance when insulted, or are you good at overlooking it?
Do you dwell on it, or are you able to dismiss it easily?Share with the group a time when you ignored good advice and made a foolish decision that cost you later.
There aresome areas where we commonly struggle with self-discipline – health, emotions, marriage, kids, career, and finances. In which of these areas do you struggle and why?
What wisdom and advice do you think might help you in becoming victorious in an area of your life where you struggle or wish to grow?
Share a time when you or your children were tempted to take the easy way out, and then later
experienced the pain of regret.
Is there a method you either use yourself, or have taught to your children, to evaluate how to make good decisions?
Kevin pointed out that in order to have an awesome life in God, we have to experience the death of our own selfish desires (two sides of the coin). When did you make a decision that was more difficult in the short term, but resulted in great reward later?
Read aloud Proverbs 11: 24-25
These two verses point out a paradox; we become richer by being more generous. When we are good stewards of God’s gifts to us by being generous, we free up God to bless us even more.
When was a time when you were generous with your time, money, or energy and it made a difference in someone’s life? How did it affect you?
Describe a grown-up, healthy relationship you have with either you kids or a friend, and talk about what sacrifices you have had to make to keep it healthy.
What boundary issues or red flags do you look for in relationships that warn you to proceed with caution?
Pastor talked about all relationships having a “personality” that is unique. How would you describe the personality of one of your close relationships, either with your kids, spouse, family member or friend?