INTRODUCE: With unlimited amounts of money and access to any property on the face of the earth, where would your backyard be located?

READ: Matthew 26.36-39

WATCH SERMON

PRAYER: Begin the time by praying together

DISCUSS
1. Pastor Robert referred to this passage as a beautiful example of “Lord willing.” What is the beauty that’s on display in this account?
2. Is there an area of your life that God has fenced in tight? If you feel comfortable sharing, what do you know you must avoid doing, but notice that it is okay for other believers to do?
3. What is in your cup that you wish God would take away?
4. Pastor Robert noted that Ecclesiastes 1:18 says, “with much wisdom comes much sorrow.” Have you found this to be true? What sorrows have increased for you as you have gained wisdom?
5. How do you think we can avoid being distracted by or preoccupied with the things that God has given other people in their “backyard”?
6. Have you prayed, “Not my will, but yours” about the cup that is in your backyard? Why do you think you can feel the freedom to tell this to God? Why could you feel stuck with the unwanted cup?
7. How do you think of God when he’s given you an unwanted gift? Do you struggle with acknowledging Jesus as Lord? Seeing that God is good?

PRAY
Thank you, Lord, that there is freedom within the “backyard” you have given me. Thank you that Jesus took the cup of your justified wrath. Even as I wrestle with the cup that you have given me; may I know that you – my daddy – are Lord and you are good.

SHARE & PRAY
Share one thing you need prayer for today…
Take time to pray for one person at a time
Invite the Holy Spirit to guide your time
Listen to the Lord for guidance in how to pray for one another
…and then pray….