Key Scriptures
Soon afterward, Jesus went to a town called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd went along with him. As he approached the town gate, a dead person was being carried out—the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. And a large crowd from the town was with her. When the Lord saw her, his heart went out to her and he said, “Don’t cry.” Then he went up and touched the bier they were carrying him on, and the bearers stood still. He said, “Young man, I say to you, get up!” The dead man sat up and began to talk, and Jesus gave him back to his mother. They were all filled with awe and praised God. “A great prophet has appeared among us,” they said. “God has come to help his people.” Luke 7:11-16
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7
Start talking. Find a conversation starter for your group.
- In one word, how would you describe your current emotional state?
- Can you recall a moment when you felt God's presence during a challenging emotional time?
- What does it mean to you that Jesus experienced a range of emotions during His life on earth?
Start thinking. Ask a question to get your group thinking.
- Why is recognizing that Jesus experienced emotions like ours essential to our faith?
- How can acknowledging and understanding our emotions help us grow in our relationship with God?
- How do Jesus' actions in Luke 7:11-16 show His deep compassion and care for those who are hurting?
Start sharing. Choose a question to create openness.
- Can you share an experience when you felt Jesus noticed and cared for you in a challenging situation?
- How has your faith helped you navigate difficult emotions or situations in your life?
- How can we become more aware and compassionate towards others who may be struggling emotionally?
Start praying. Be bold and pray with power.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus, who experienced emotions just like we do. Help us always remember that He sees us, notices our pain, and deeply cares for us. May we turn to Him in times of emotional distress and find hope in His love and compassion. Amen.
Start doing. Commit to a step and live it out this week.
- Set aside time each day to acknowledge your emotions and bring them before God in prayer.
- Reach out to someone you know who might be going through a difficult emotional time, offering your support and a listening ear.
- Reflect on Jesus' compassion in Luke 7:11-16, and think about how you can demonstrate similar compassion to others in your daily interactions.
- Whenever you feel overwhelmed by emotions, remember to cast your cares on Jesus, trusting that He deeply cares for you (1 Peter 5:7).
- Read the Gospels with a focus on instances where Jesus displays various emotions, deepening your understanding of His humanity and connection to us.