Coping with Difficult Times
The following Bible study was written as a one-hour breakout study for a women’s retreat. It was written to elicit discussion and sharing of practical ideas on how to face those very difficult days of our lives. It was written by Barbara Hahn and Chris Luecke of Abiding Word Lutheran Church in Houston, TX. The theological content was reviewed by Martin Luther College Professor Lyle Lange.
Bible Study: Coping with Difficult Times
Leader’s Guide
Opening prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank you for giving us this opportunity to study your Word with the Christian friends you have put into our lives.It is indeed a great blessing.Be with us as we study today and teach us what you would have us learn.In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Bible Study
Why do bad things happen to “good” people?I’m a Christian shouldn’t my life be easier than that of a non-Christian?Everyone has had difficult weeks, months or even years.But some seem to handle it so much better than others, almost as if someone is carrying the load for them.What is their secret?
1. Why am I subjected to troubles and trials in my life?
Strengthens us; draws us closer to God; reminds us of God’s power; disciplines and trains us; we gain patience, wisdom and maturity; reminds us of the finish line at the end of our race – heaven; allows us to witness to others.
2 Corinthians 12:8-10
John 16:33
1 Peter 5:8-11
Hebrews 12:10, 11
Psalm 23:4
James 1:2-4
Romans 8:22, 23
Matthew 5:16
2.Is my life out-of-control and out of balance?
All things work for the good of believers; God has a plan for me – a plan to prosper me and not harm me; we may not understand but we may trust in the Lord with ALL of our heart; God is in control and can do all things. Find hope in God’s plan and live a life of thankfulness. Tip: list your troubles and concerns – then list your many blessings.
Romans 8:28
Jeremiah 29:11
Proverbs 3:5, 6
Jeremiah 32:27
1 Thessalonians 5:17, 18
3.Where do I go for guidance and help?
Seek spiritual direction from the Word of God and develop deep spiritual roots.
Psalm 32:8
Psalm 119:105
Jeremiah 17:7, 8
Matthew 7:24, 25
Philippians 4:9
Ephesians 6:10-18
4.What does the Bible teach about the attributes of God and how does that affect me?
Our God is Almighty and all powerful; understanding; always with us; will strengthen and uphold us; redeemed us; knows our name; will never forsake us; gentle; intercedes for us; inseparable love; faithful; will not allow us to be tempted beyond what we can handle and provides a way for us to endure.
Isaiah 40:28-31
Isaiah 41:10
Isaiah 43:1-3
Hebrews 13:5b-6
Matthew 11:28-30
Romans 8:34, 35 and 37-39
1 Corinthians 10:13
5.I feel so alone and helpless. Who is there for me when I need help?
Ask our Father in Heaven; He hears and He answers; I am Here, He promises; 24-hour knee-mail; I will deliver you; pray; present your petitions and requests to God; God promises us PEACE; when praying remember God’s many blessings and offer thanks; rely on the strength, encouragement and support of Christian friends.
Matthew 7:7, 8
Isaiah 30:19
Isaiah 58:9
Psalm 50:15
Philippians 4:6, 7
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
6.How can I let go and let God?
Replace worry with trust. Christ has died for us, we know God loves us. Remember God’s promises; remember God’s almighty power; remember His great love for you; seek first God’s kingdom; Tip: In the face of despair, worry or fear—recite a favorite Bible verse or sing a familiar hymn—will keep your focus on Christ, not yourself.
Joshua 1:5
Joshua 1:9
Philippians 4:13
Psalm 46:10
Psalm 31 (Hymnal)
John 14:1-3
Matthew 6:25-34
1 Peter 5:6, 7
John 14:27
Prayer
Prayer of an Unknown Confederate Soldier during the Civil War:
I asked God for strength that I might achieve.I was made weak that I might learn humbly to obey.I asked God for health that I might do greater things.I was given infirmity that I might do better things.I asked for riches that I might be happy.I was given poverty that I might be wise.I asked for power that I might have the praise of men.I was given weakness that I might see the need of God.I asked for all things that I might enjoy life.I was given life that I might enjoy all things.I got nothing that I asked for but everything I had hoped for.Almost despite myself my unspoken prayers were answered.I am among all men most richly blessed.
Closing Hymn
What a Friend We Have in Jesus
What a friend we have in Jesus,All our sins and grief to bear!
What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer!
Oh, what peace we often forfeit, Oh, what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer!
Have we trials and temptations?Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged—take it to the Lord in prayer.
Can we find a friend so faithful Who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness—take it to the Lord in prayer.