Life Group Questions

2) When you consider the idea of encouragement, what comes to mind? Who has been a source of encouragement in your life, and how did that impact you? How did their example of encouragement inspire you to want to do the same for someone else?

3) Describe how the example of Christ gives encouragement to Christians as they navigate through life (cf. Romans 15:3, Philippians 2:5-11). What are some specific things about Christ that have served to encourage you?

4) Read Romans 15:1-7 and discuss observations that stand out to you. What does Paul say about the idea of encouragement in these passages? How important is the idea of hope for Christians (cf. Hebrews 11:1, Romans 15:13)?

5) Read the following passages and discuss how the Word of God encourages Christians: Psalm 62:5-6; Isaiah 41:10; Psalm 119:105; Proverbs 2:6-7; Romans 8:35-39; Psalm 91:1-4,14-16. What are some of your favorite bible passages for encouragement?

6) When we consider the tools Christians have to give and receive encouragement (the Bible, prayer, uplifting words, etc.), how can we implement those in our lives to be a blessing to others (cf. Romans 15:1-2)?

7) What does it mean that Scripture was given for our instruction? How does the instruction of Scripture differ from application? In what way is all Scripture applicable to our lives today? Explain how the laws of the Old Testament apply to Christians today.

8) Take time to pray for and encourage one another, lifting one another up to the Lord.