1_Trusting_Gods_Promises_in_Uncertain_Times.pdf

**Bible Study Discussion Guide**

**Bible Reading:**
- Acts 1:1–11
- Acts 2:1–4
- Acts 2:14, 37–41

**Observation Questions:**
1. What promise did Jesus give to the disciples before His ascension, as mentioned in Acts 1:4-9?
2. Describe the events that took place on the day of Pentecost according to Acts 2:1-4.
3. How did Peter respond to the crowd in Acts 2:14, and what was the outcome of his message in Acts 2:37-41?
4. What role did the Holy Spirit play in the transformation of the disciples during Pentecost?

**Interpretation Questions:**
1. How does remembering God's past faithfulness help believers trust Him during uncertain times, as illustrated in the sermon?
2. In what ways does relying on the Holy Spirit's power differ from relying on one's own abilities, according to the sermon and Acts 2:1-4?
3. How does Peter's transformation from a broken disciple to an empowered leader demonstrate the power of grace and forgiveness?
4. What does it mean to respond in obedience to God's guidance, even when the path is unclear, as seen in Peter's actions in Acts 2:14?

**Application Questions:**
1. Reflect on a time when you felt uncertain about the future. How did remembering God's past faithfulness help you navigate that period?
2. Identify a current challenge in your life. How can you rely more on the Holy Spirit's power rather than your own strength to face it?
3. Think of a past failure or mistake. How can embracing God's grace and forgiveness help you move forward with confidence?
4. What is one step of obedience God is calling you to take this week? How can you ensure you act on it?
5. Consider a situation where you feel stuck between where you are and where you want to be. How can trusting in God's promises provide a safety net for you?
6. How can you remind yourself daily of God's promises and faithfulness, especially during times of doubt or fear?
7. In what ways can you encourage others in your small group to trust Jesus and let Him guide them through life's uncertainties?

Day 1: Remembering God's Unchanging Faithfulness
In times of uncertainty, it is essential to anchor ourselves in the memory of God's past faithfulness. This remembrance serves as a foundation for trust, as fear often thrives in the unknown. By focusing on God's unchanging character and His promises, we can overcome fear and find peace in His sovereignty. Reflecting on Scripture reminds us that God's promises are steadfast and reliable, providing a safety net in life's uncertainties. When we recall how God has been faithful in the past, it strengthens our faith and gives us confidence to face the future, knowing that He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

Psalm 77:11-12 (ESV): "I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your wonders of old. I will ponder all your work, and meditate on your mighty deeds."

Reflection: Think of a specific time when God showed His faithfulness in your life. How can remembering this moment help you trust Him in your current situation?


Day 2: Relying on the Holy Spirit's Empowering Presence
Trust grows when we rely on God's power rather than our own abilities. The story of Pentecost illustrates how the Holy Spirit empowers us to accomplish what seems impossible. Just as the disciples were filled with boldness and clarity, we too can experience transformation when we depend on the Holy Spirit. God's plans require His power, not our strength, and trusting Him means allowing His Spirit to guide us through challenges. When we lean on the Holy Spirit, we find the courage and wisdom to navigate life's uncertainties, knowing that we are not alone.

Acts 1:8 (ESV): "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."

Reflection: In what area of your life do you need to rely more on the Holy Spirit's power rather than your own strength? How can you invite Him to guide you today?


Day 3: Obedience in the Midst of Uncertainty
Trusting God involves taking action when He speaks, even if the path ahead is unclear. Like a hiker following trail markers, we may not see the final destination, but we trust God's guidance step by step. Peter's story shows how obedience leads to transformation and impact. By identifying and acting on one step of obedience, we align ourselves with God's will and experience His faithfulness in our lives. Obedience is not always easy, but it is the pathway to experiencing God's best for us and seeing His promises fulfilled.

Hebrews 11:8 (ESV): "By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going."

Reflection: What is one step of obedience God is calling you to take today, even if the outcome is uncertain? How can you trust Him in this step?


Day 4: Embracing Grace and Forgiveness
Peter's journey from a broken disciple to an empowered leader demonstrates the power of grace and forgiveness. God's Spirit can redeem and restore anyone, regardless of past failures. This transformation is a testament to God's ability to use our weaknesses for His greater story. Embracing grace allows us to move forward with confidence, knowing that God's plans are greater than our past mistakes. When we accept His forgiveness, we are freed from the burden of guilt and shame, and we can step into the new life He offers.

2 Corinthians 12:9 (ESV): "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me."

Reflection: Is there a past failure or mistake that you need to bring to God for His grace and forgiveness? How can embracing His grace change your perspective today?


Day 5: Trusting Jesus Through Life's Uncertainties
Life's uncertainties can feel overwhelming, but Jesus offers salvation, peace, and eternal life. Trusting Him means letting go of our own strength and allowing Him to lead us. The cross and resurrection are the ultimate expressions of His love and victory over sin. By confessing Jesus as Lord and believing in His resurrection, we begin a new journey with Him, finding hope and assurance in His promises. In the midst of life's storms, we can find refuge in His presence and trust that He is working all things for our good.

Isaiah 26:3-4 (ESV): "You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock."

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you find it difficult to trust Jesus? How can you intentionally surrender this area to Him today and find peace in His promises?

1. "Have you ever been searching for something, only to realize you were the one who was lost? Sometimes, the solution is right there the whole time, just waiting for us to see it."


2. "When you’re uncertain, remember what God has promised. Trusting God begins with connecting your heart to His faithfulness, creating the foundation for trust in times of uncertainty."


3. "Fear thrives on uncertainty, but it doesn’t have to control your life. Replace fear with faith by focusing on God’s sovereignty and His ability to lead you through every challenge."


4. "God’s promises act as your safety net in life’s uncertainties. Even if the future seems uncertain, step forward in faith, knowing that God will always uphold you with His promises."


5. "Trust grows when you rely on God’s power, not your own abilities, to face uncertainty. The Holy Spirit empowers us to do what seems impossible."


6. "Trying to fuel God’s vision for your life with your own resources is like trying to power your smartphone by blowing into the charging port. It won’t work without the proper power source."


7. "Trusting God means taking action when He speaks, even if the path ahead is unclear. Like a hiker trusting trail markers, we move forward, knowing He’s guiding us step by step."


8. "Life can feel like rowing against waves of doubt and fear. But God doesn’t call us to row in our own strength. Trusting Him means relying on His Spirit to sustain us."


9. "Jesus didn’t come to improve your life; He came to save your life. The cross was the ultimate sacrifice, and the resurrection was His victory over death."


10. "Are you ready to stop rowing in your own strength and let Jesus take over? Trust Him, even when you don’t see the whole path, and begin a new journey with Him."