Check-In (Highs & Lows) 15 min
A great, quick way to catch the highlights of what is happening in the lives of the people in your group is to take turns quickly sharing the “highs & lows” of your week. High: What was your biggest highlight since we last met? Low: What was the low point during this time?
Settle-In (Ice-Breaker) 10 min
Talk about a woman that has made a big impact in your life? Why did she make an impact and what did she teach you?
Dig-In (Scripture) 35 min
1. Read Exodus 2:1-10. How did Jochebed’s act of sacrifice impact the course of history?
2. What does this story teach us about sacrifice?
3. Read Ruth 1:1-22. What are the key elements that stand out to you in this passage?
4. How did Ruth’s decision to stay with Naomi demonstrate love and loyalty?
5. How does this passage from Ruth handle loss and sorrow?
6. Read Proverbs 3:5 and Esther 4:14. How does the concept of surrender intersect with trusting in God’s sovereignty? What do these passages teach us about surrendering?
Gear-Up (Application) 15 min
1. Balancing Responsibilities (Laura’s Story). In what ways do you prioritize your responsibilities? How do you maintain balance in busy seasons? How can you trust God with the demands of your current season, knowing it’s temporary?
2. Setting Healthy Boundaries (Jenni’s Story). What role do boundaries play in maintaining healthy relationships, especially in challenging circumstances? How can you extend grace to yourself and others when setting and enforcing boundaries?
3. Embracing Change (Nicki’s Story). How do you approach transitions or changes in life, particularly those related to family dynamics? What steps can you take to embrace new seasons with hope and anticipation rather than fear?
4. Finding Identity in Christ (Emilie’s Story). How do societal expectations influence your perception of womanhood and identity? What practices or habits help you stay rooted in your identity as a child of God, regardless of external pressures?
Step-Up (Homework)
Take time this week to journal about your current season of life. Consider the themes of sacrifice, sorrow, surrender, and sovereignty discussed in the sermon. How do these concepts resonate with your own experiences?