We live in an emotionally charged culture ready to explode into a myriad of reactions. At the core of these emotions are runaway fears. Deep seated fears over what has happened, is happening or could happen without someone or something intervening. As a result, we attempt to take control only to find ourselves with more questions and a larger mess. At the heart of these emotions is a cry for something to bring us peace. True peace doesn’t arrive in the absence of these emotions, but with a greater surrender to Christ’s presence in the midst of them. ~ Pastor Dave
Open: Have you ever been so overwhelmed with emotion, whether positive or negative, that it poured out of you in reaction? Share your story.
Read: John 13-16; John 20; Isaiah 26:3; Philippians 4
Discuss:
1. Everyone has emotions. In our current culture, emotions are running high. Why do you think there are so many unfiltered emotions in society today? What emotions do you think are most prevalent today? What emotions do you see most in your life? Describe how emotions cause us to take matters into our own hands.
2. Describe the connection between emotions and fear. How have you seen fear elevate into unhealthy emotions? Can you list some biblical characters that exemplify unhealthy emotions because of runaway fears?
3. How do our emotions reveal a deeper cry for peace? In what ways do you see a longing for peace in society today? Describe the context of John 14. Why was Jesus telling his disciples to not let their hearts be troubled? What would your reaction have been after hearing this?
4. As part of Jesus’ last words, He offers them peace. Define peace (Shalom). What do you make of Jesus’ tenderness and care in His offer of peace, while knowing He was going to be on a cross in less than 24 hours? Jesus says that His peace will be different than the world’s. Describe the difference between the world’s peace and Christ’s peace.
5. How did the disciples demonstrate runaway fears and negative emotions as they experienced Jesus’ arrest and death? Read John 20. Even after His resurrection, Jesus graciously reminds them of His peace. In what ways does peace begin with a mindset? Read Philippians 4:7. How does peace guard our minds? How should this help us overcome negative emotions?
6. Do you agree with this statement “emotions can demonstrate either our steadied faith or our runaway fears”? Why or why not? What are some specific steps you can take to stop negative emotions?
Pray: Ask God to give you an awareness of your runaway emotions. Confess the emotions that have caused improper reactions. Pray that God would give you a greater awareness of His peace and that you would submit your emotions to Him.
Memorize/Meditate: The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7
