Help for the Journey: Week 4

Day 1
Freedom from condemnation

In the Bible

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Romans 8:1

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9

1. If you fail, does God condemn you?

2. When you sin as a Christian, what should you do?

3. Do you believe you are “in Christ Jesus”? If you are not sure, review God, What Is Going On? material on the GriefShare website.

In your life

1. Do you feel that you are forgiven? Why or why not?

2. Do you feel guilty?* Does that feeling keep returning? What is its source?

* People who have not experienced the death of a loved one do not truly understand the feelings of guilt you may be experiencing (regardless of whether the guilt is false). At a GriefShare group you can learn about God’s offer of freedom, forgiveness, and love.

Day 2
A transformed sorrow

In the Bible

Then maidens will dance and be glad, young men and old as well. I will turn their mourning into gladness; I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow. Jeremiah 31:13

1. It may seem like your sorrow will last forever. How does this verse suggest something else?

2. What is God’s final goal for you?

In your life

1. How has your compassion grown through your suffering and grief?

2. How have you become more aware of the feelings of others?

Day 3
An invincible hope

In the Bible

Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep [die], or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope. 1 Thessalonians 4:13

1. What kind of difference is there when you have hope during your grieving?

2. What does a Christian have to be hopeful about?

In your life

1. If you knew with certainty that you would see your loved one again someday, how would that change your grieving?

2. What are your hopes and dreams attached to?

3. If you are a Christian, how does your grief differ from people you know who aren’t Christians?*

* For more information about what it means to let God lead your life and to learn what there is to be hopeful about, visit God, What Is Going On?

Day 4
The greatest book in the world

In the Bible

All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16–17 NASB

1. How can you be equipped by God?

2. What are the different uses of the Scriptures (God’s words in the Bible)?

In your life

1. How do you use Scripture in your life?

2. How has Scripture corrected or encouraged you?

3. Make a plan for studying or reading the Bible on a regular basis.

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Day 5
Worship

In the Bible

Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the LORD our Maker. Psalm 95:6

1. What does it mean to “worship”?

2. What inspires you to worship God? (silence, songs, being out-of-doors)

In your life

1. How has music affected you during this time in your life? Which songs have been helpful to you in your healing?

2. Why is it good to worship with other people?