GROUP LIFE QUESTIONS- Psalm 137
-Primary scriptures… Psalm 137, Jeremiah 29:4-7, Jeremiah 52,
Historically, this psalm finds Israelites scattered across the Babylonian empire. Their disobedience had placed them under the discipline of their God. As a result Jerusalem had been sacked, the temple destroyed and the walls torn down. To say that it was a dark day would have been an understatement…
1. Psalm 137 says that the harps had been hung in the willows… the equivalent of songs of praise had ceased. What kind of responses have you been aware of as you see our nation rejecting God ? How has that drift affected you?
2. Read through Ephesians 5:15-21. Notice especially the effects of the filling of the Holy Spirit.
3. Jeremiah gave the exiles instructions for doing life while scattered abroad. Look at those in 29:4-7.
-How have you witnessed followers of Jesus be a blessing to our community?
-We all have unique spheres of influence, unique groups of people that we have access to. How has God given you opportunity to be a blessing to them?
4. What are some ways that we need to be praying for our communities?
5. How can you incorporate prayer into your everyday interaction with the people in your sphere of influence?
After giving them time to share, offer these suggestions…
1. Listen carefully to what people are talking about. They will talk about their concerns.
2. Pray for them right then, just you and God.
3. Practicing discernment, look for an opportunity to share that you are praying. Could be right then, might need to be later.
4. Follow up with them to let them know that you have continued to pray.
