2026 Sunday School Discussion Guide

Together we will read through the Psalms and Proverbs in 2026!

Here are some helpful discussion questions for your Sunday School class or small group!

Download Discussion Questions through the Psalms and Proverbs

SePTEMBER

Week 38 (9/27)

Christian Life - Small Group Warm Up Question:

What are some tips you would share with a new Christian about church?

Psalms & Proverbs

Psalm 111 ~ Psalm 112 ~ Psalm 113 ~ Proverbs 23:1-18

1. How has God used your church “congregation” to encourage, mentor, and grow you in your Christian walk? Name some specific examples. (Psalm 111:1) What sort of long-term legacy do you hope to leave within your local church family?

2. What is the difference between knowing something and studying something? Why would those who love the Lord’s works “study” them rather than just “knowing” them? What might that look like? (Psalm 111:2)

3. How would you describe the characteristics of someone who is “trustworthy”? Why do we want to have trustworthy friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers? How does it impact you to hear about God, that “all his precepts are trustworthy”? (Psalm 111:7) Do you think we give the Bible the time, attention, and love that it deserves? How can we do better?

4. How would you explain or summarize Psalm 111:10 in an easy-to-understand way?

5. What does it mean that “the righteous will never be moved”? (Psalm 112:6) What does it not mean? Who are the “righteous”?

6. Read Psalm 112:5-9. Do you agree or disagree with verse 5? How do you make sense of this passage?

7. Psalm 113 is summarized as “Who is like the Lord our God” based on verse 5. What stands out to you from Psalm 113 & why?

8. What is your favorite name of God? Characteristic of God? Miracle of God? Why? (for ideas see www.spiritualwarfare.blog/names-of-god , www.spiritualwarfare.blog/miracles-of-god , www.spiritualwarfare.blog/character-of-god ). Why should we brag about God? What are some ways we can boast in the name of the Lord? In daily conversation? Through digital means?

9. Who is the most famous or richest person you have met? What was that like? Did you act differently when you were in their presence? Why? Why do we sometimes think that fame or riches would make our life better? What does the Bible say about fame and riches? (Proverbs 23:1-5)

10. Have you ever encountered someone who was manipulating or using you? Did you get hurt in that situation? What are characteristics we might be able to spot in someone with bad motives? (Proverbs 23:6-8)

11. The warnings of Proverbs 23:1-18 sound like loving advice from a parent to a child. What is some of the best advice you received from your parents? What sort of advice might you prioritize to pass down to the next generation?

General Discussion Questions

• What do these passages teach us about our enemies’ attacks (deceptions, distractions, discouragement, and temptations)? How can we better resist these attacks?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

OCTOBER

Week 39 (10/4)

Christian Life - Small Group Warm Up Question:

What are some tips you would share with a new Christian about marriage?

Psalms & Proverbs

Psalm 114 ~ Psalm 115 ~ Psalm 116 ~ Proverbs 23:19-35

1. What is one of your favorite miracles or part of God’s deliverance of His people, Israel, from captivity in Egypt, through 40 years in the desert, into the Promised Land? Why?

2. Why do you think God describes the sea, mountains, and hills the way he does in Psalm 114?

3. If you had to be famous/well-known, what would you want to be famous/known for? What temptations would you face in being famous? What advantages would you have in being famous? Why do you think Psalm 115 starts the way it does?

4. Why do people make and worship idols in the Bible? How is verse 3 “Our God is in the heavens; he does all that he pleases” contrast the reasons people turn to idols?

5. What are some modern-day man-made “idols” people pursue and worship? How have you been tempted by these idols? How does Psalm 115:4-8 provide important reminders about “idols”?

a. See also: “What does the Bible say about idols?” www.trustworthyword.com/idols

6. Why do you think “trust the Lord” is repeated three times in Psalm 115:9-11? What sort of situations can make us turn away from trusting in the Lord? When we aren’t trusting in the Lord, who or what do we trust in?

7. Why do you think “he will bless” is repeated three times in Psalm 115:12-13? How is this a contrast to those who worship idols? What should be our response to God’s blessings? (v.18)

8. How can you tell is someone is a good listener? Why is being a good listener evidence of love? How does it make you feel to know that you can call on the Lord in prayer as long as you live? (Psalm 116:1)

9. What is your favorite verse in Psalm 116? Why?

10. What does God mean when He says “Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints.” (Psalm 116:15)? Which sort of funerals and visitations do you care the most about attending? Why? How does it make you feel to know that God deeply cares about the deaths of his followers?

11. Did you listen well to your parents/guardians when you were a teenager? Why or why not? Why do you think God emphasizes listening to your father and mother (Proverbs 23:22)?

12. Why is lust so dangerous and destructive? (Proverbs 23:26-28) What advice or encouragement would you give a young man or woman to help them resist sexual temptations?

a. “What does the Bible say about Sexual Sin?” www.trustworthyword.com/what-does-the-bible-say-about-sexual-sin

b. “How to Protect Yourself and Your Family from Porn” www.trustworthyword.com/protect-from-porn

13. Proverbs 23 finishes with warnings about the love of alcohol leading to drunkenness. (Proverbs 23:29-35). Why do you think so much attention is given to this subject? How has alcohol or substance abuse affected your life or family? What has God taught you on this subject?

a. See also: “What does the Bible really say about Alcohol?” www.trustworthyword.com/alcohol

b. See also: “What does the Bible say about Addictions?” www.trustworthyword.com/what-does-the-bible-say-about-addictions

General Discussion Questions

• What did you learn about humanity or yourself in the readings this week? About your identity, character or purpose as a Christ-follower?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

Week 40 (10/11)

Christian Life - Small Group Warm Up Question:

What are some tips you would share with a new Christian about parenting and family?

Psalms & Proverbs

Psalm 117 ~ Psalm 118 ~ Proverbs 24:1-18

1. Psalm 117 is super short (two verses) but focus on two key aspects of God’s character: love and faithfulness. How would you define love and faithfulness? Why are they such important characteristics in a relationship? Other world religions, sects, and cults portray God as distant, uninvolved, or impersonal. How does it impact you to focus on God’s love and faithfulness?

2. Psalm 118 continues the theme of “steadfast love” in its first four verses. If your family/house were to describe ways in which God has loved you consistently, what might you mention?

3. When were you in a situation in which you felt entrapped, surrounded or captive to someone else’s will or a tough situation? How did the Lord set you “free” in that circumstance or from that person?

4. Look at Psalm 118:6. If people can cause lots of harm to us, how can the Psalmist write “What can man do to me?” What are some of your biggest fears in life about what people might do to you or your family? How can you similarly reorient your mind about those fears in such a way that you can find peace in the midst of stressful scenarios?

5. What is a “refuge”? Why do we “take refuge” in others? What some ways in which we might try to “take refuge” in someone other than God? How can we shift our mindset and heart towards a trust in God? What steps can we take to daily trust more deeply in God?

6. Have you ever had a “near death” experience? What was that like? What did you learn from it? In Psalm 118:17, what is the purpose of life that the Psalmist gives himself to after a “near death” experience? If you knew you only had one year to live, what changes would you make in your life?

7. What is the purpose of parental discipline? How would your parents discipline you growing up? What was effective and what was ineffective? When was a time that you think you experienced the Lord’s “severe discipline” (Psalm 118:18)? What was that like?

8. Do you have any gates at your house? What is the purpose of a gate? Do you keep them locked or unlocked? Why? How might you pray similarly to Psalm 118:19-21?

9. Psalm 118:22 is quoted at least 7 times in the Bible (Matthew 21:42; Mark 12:10–11; Luke 20:17; Isaiah 28:16; Acts 4:11; Ephesians 2:20; 1 Peter 2:4-7). Why is this such an important prophecy about who the Messiah?

10. Did you ever sing Psalm 118:24 as a child? What is so powerful about this verse?

11. How does the world define “success”? If you were to pray to be successful in life, what might you mean by that sort of prayer? How would you define success in God’s eyes?

12. Skim over Proverbs 24:1-18. What stands out to you? Why?

13. What do you think about Proverbs 24:17-18? In all honesty, is this easy or hard to follow?

General Discussion Questions

• What can you learn about God from these passages? His work? His character? How can this help you grow in your trust of Him?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

Week 41 (10/18)

Christian Life - Small Group Warm Up Question:

What are some times or ways you have seen God’s greatness and power through nature?

Psalms & Proverbs

Psalm 119:1-88 ~ Proverbs 24:19-34

1. Psalm 119 is the longest Psalm in the Bible (and longer than some Bible books). It follows a pattern called an “acrostic” where it is organized by the 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet. If you were to summarize Psalm 119 in one word, or one sentence, how would you summarize it?

2. What is your favorite verse from Psalm 119? Why?

3. What are some of the various words used to describe the Bible in Psalm 119? How do those words emphasize the important and significance of the Bible to us?

4. Why do you think Psalm 119 starts out by talking about who is “blessed” (Psalm 119:1-3)? How does that differ with the world’s version of “blessed”?

5. If you make a new rule with your child, what sort of responses might you get? Why do children struggle against rules? Why do parents implement and enforce rules?

6. How would you define “purity”? (Psalm 118:9) What is the opposite of purity? Why is purity a worthy pursuit? What does God say is key to pursuing purity in this life? Why does Satan oppose purity so passionately?

7. What challenges in life have you faced in regard to prioritizing the Bible each day? What have you found to be a helpful approach to the discipline of Bible reading and study? How has God blessed you in seasons when you’ve been more diligent to be in the Word consistently?

8. What does it mean to be a “sojourner” (Psalm 119:19)? Why is our temporary state here in life so important to consider in light of our eternal residence?

9. Psalm 119 is full of personal statements… “I will”, “I cling”, “I have chosen”, “I delight”, “I am”, “I have kept”, “I told”, “My soul”, etc. How has the Bible become personal to you since you were born again?

10. What is one of your favorite gifts you’ve received in life? Why was it so special? How did you use it? Why is seeing the Bible as a “gift” an important perspective?

11. Psalm 119:37 asks God to help “turn my eyes from worthless things.” What are some “worthless things” your eyes spend too much time looking at?

12. Psalm 119:67 says “Before I was afflicted, I went astray, but now I keep your word.” How does your personal testimony of salvation connect with this description? What does it mean that “in faithfulness you have afflicted me”? (Psalm 119:75)

13. What sort of things tempt you to “fret” or worry? What sort of things tempt you to “envy”? How can worry and covetousness been a concerning symptom about our relationship with God (Proverbs 24:19)? How does zooming out to our eternal blessings in Jesus help us regain perspective (Proverbs 24:20)?

14. Why the Bible often commands us to “fear the Lord”, what does it mean to “fear…the king” (Proverbs 24:21-22)? Is it acceptable to be anti-government and anti-authority today? Why can an anti-authoritarian attitude be dangers? Is an anti-government bias a bad Christian witness?

15. Proverbs 24:27,30-34 speaks a lot about work ethic. Which is your favorite piece of advice about work ethic? Where did you learn your work ethic from? What wisdom would you pass on to the next generation about a good work ethic?

General Discussion Questions

• What was something new you noticed this week? What impacted you the most? Why?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

Week 42 (10/25)

Christian Life - Small Group Warm Up Question:

How are you seeing God work among the next generation?

Psalms & Proverbs

Psalm 119:89-176 ~ Proverbs 25:1-14

1. When someone makes you a promise, what sort of thoughts go through your mind? In comparison, what amazes you about God’s promises? (Psalm 119:89-90)

2. What is your favorite Bible verse? Why? How has God used that verse in your life?

3. “I am yours; save me” is such a short, simple statement, yet is so powerful (Psalm 119:94). How would you explain the power and comfort of this verse to a non-Christian?

4. What are some techniques you have found helpful to “meditate” on God’s Word “all the day”? (Psalm 119:97)

5. What is your favorite sweet or dessert? When did you first acquire a taste for it? What do you like so much about it? How does it affect you to think of it even now? In what ways is the Bible “sweeter” than your favorite candy or dessert? (Psalm 119:103)

6. What is a food that you “hate”? How could someone else know that you hate that food? Similarly, what should it look like to “hate every false way”? (Psalm 119:104)

7. Have you ever been stuck in a dark or scary situation when a light was needed, helpful, or comforting? What was that like? How much did you value your light in that circumstance? Psalm 119:105 says “your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” How has God used the Bible to help you navigate or find comfort in this dark and dangerous world?

8. What is your favorite sport to watch or participate in? Why are rules important in that sport? What happens if coaches don’t teach their players the rules? In a similar way, why does our God emphasize his “rules” to us? Is that “oppressive” or “restricting”? Why should we want to learn and live by His “rules”? (Psalm 119:108)

9. Psalm 119:113-120 contrasts the faithful to the unrighteous. What comparisons stand out to you in this section?

10. Read 119:136. How can you relate to this? Should we feel this sort of pity and compassion towards the lost? Why?

11. Why would our “persecutors” and “adversaries” try to get us to swerve from God’s law? (Psalm 119:57? What tactics might our enemies use to pull us away from God’s law?

12. What is your favorite proverb from Proverbs 25? Why?

13. How would you define gossip? Why is gossip so easy in many circumstances? Why is gossip so destructive? (Proverbs 25:9)

14. If you could give away valuable jewelry for free to others, how do you think people would respond? How would it make you feel to give away such valuable gifts? Why do you think “a word fitly spoken” is compared to a fine piece of jewelry (Proverbs 25:11-12)? How does it impact you to know that we can both acquire and share God’s infinitely valuable wisdom?

General Discussion Questions

• Context Questions: Who is writing this? Who is it being written to? When? Why? What type of writing is this? How does this matter to my understanding of the meaning of these chapters?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

NOVEMBER

Week 43 (11/1)

Christian Life - Small Group Warm Up Question:

How are you trying to share God’s truth and love with the next generation?

Psalms & Proverbs

Psalm 120 ~ Psalm 121 ~ Psalm 122 ~ Proverbs 25:15-28

1. If you call the police, fire department, or ambulance in an emergency and they did not answer your call, how would you feel? Why would you feel that way? Does God have to answer our “calls” for help when we pray? How does it make you feel to know that the Creator of the Universe chooses to answer your prayers for help when you are in “distress”? (Psalm 120:1) What do we learn about God’s character by the fact that He answers personal prayer?

2. Do “lying lips” bother you? Why? Why do some people thrive off of conflict? How have you learned to navigate, avoid, or restrain those who gossip, lie, or love to provoke conflict? (Psalms 120) What is it like when you finally encounter peace?

3. Read Psalm 121:1-2. This is a Psalm that would be recited when climbing up to the temple to worship God in Jerusalem. Why do you think the Psalmist begins this way? When we walk, how does the focus of our eyes affect us? What does it look like to set the “eyes” of our heart on God? When we go to God in prayer for help, why is remembering Him as Creator so powerful?

4. How does the rest of Psalm 121 comfort you about who God is and how he works?

5. How would you explain to a non-Christian the purpose of church? How would you encourage a new Christian about the importance of going to church? What gets your excited about going to church? What can steal our joy in going to church? (Psalm 122)

6. In Psalm 122:4, what is the purpose of the city of Jerusalem? How can we best accomplish that purpose today?

7. How would you define “peace”? What is the purpose of Jerusalem having peace? How are the residents of Jerusalem described? Is that true of the population of Jerusalem today? In what ways should we be praying for the “peace of Jerusalem” today? (Psalm 122:6)

8. What does God mean by “peace be within you”? How is that possible? What does that experience feel like?

9. What does it mean that a “soft tongue will break a bone”? (Proverbs 25:15) Why is speaking softly so challenging at times? Why is it often so effective?

10. Read Proverbs 25:21-22. What are some practical ways you have sought to love on your “enemy”? Why would such love be like “burning coals on his head”? Even if our enemy does not respond well to such love, how does receiving the Lord’s “reward” encourage you? Read Romans 5:8-10. When did God love us?

11. Middle eastern roofs were often flat, uncomfortable (with exposure to the sun and elements), with dirty corners (where dust and debris accumulates). Similarly, why is marital conflict so hard? (Proverbs 25:24) What are some good techniques you have learn to better love and communicate with your spouse?

12. In what parts of your life do you desire more self-control? How does the imagery of a city with walls help you to visualize the importance of self-control? (Proverbs 25:28)

General Discussion Questions

• What do these passages teach us about our enemies’ attacks (deceptions, distractions, discouragement, and temptations)? How can we better resist these attacks?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

Week 44 (11/8)

Christian Life - Small Group Warm Up Question:

Who is on the top of your prayer list? Why?

Psalms & Proverbs

Psalm 123 ~ Psalm 124 ~ Psalm 125 ~ Proverbs 26:1-16

1. Why do you think Psalm 123 focuses on our eyes so much? What can we make of the comparisons giving in Psalm 123:2? What are some similar reasons why we should “look to the Lord our God”? How are our physical eyes and spiritual “heart” connected? How can we practically ensure the “eyes of our heart” stay focused on God daily?

2. What is “mercy”? Why does the Psalmist keeping looking upon the Lord “till he has mercy upon us”? (Psalm 123:2-4) What are some specific ways we need and want God’s mercy?

3. What are some ways you’ve seen the Lord be “on our side”? (Psalm 124:1-2) Why is it so easy to forget the past ways God has delivered us? Why is it so easy to become self-dependent and not desperate enough for God’s “help”? Why do you think the Psalmist, when asking God for “help”, refers to God as the One “who made heaven and earth”? (Psalm 124:8)

4. When you look at all the evil opposition in the world today, how do you feel? Why? How do you think the Psalmist felt at times? Why is Psalm 125 such a good corrective to temptations towards depression and prolonged sadness or hopelessness?

5. How does Psalm 125:1-2 encourage your faith? What circumstances in life have made you feel like you were surrounded by enemies rather than surrounded by God? Read 2 Kings 6:15-18. How is this situation with Elisha and his servant similar to Psalm 125? How should Elisha’s example instruct us?

6. Why do you think Psalm 125:4 asks the Lord to do good those who “are good” rather than those who “do good”? How does “upright in their hearts” describe a true believer? Conversely, how does Psalm 125:5 describe a non-believer or a false convert? Why should we pray similarly?

7. Why is snow in summer not appropriate? Why is rain not good during the harvest? Why is honor not fitting for a fool? What are the consequences of honoring fools? How do you see fools being honored today? Share some specific examples. How can we personally avoid honoring fools? (Proverbs 26:1)

8. Read Proverbs 26:4-5. Do these verses contradict each other? Why are both of these reminders so helpful? How can we practically apply such wisdom in person? On social media?

9. Why do you think Proverbs speaks so much about fools? Which is your favorite verse from Proverbs 26 about foolishness? Why?

10. How would you define a “sluggard”? What are some “sluggish” habits and temptations we face today? What are some ways you would advise the next generation to resist becoming a “sluggard”?

General Discussion Questions

• What did you learn about humanity or yourself in the readings this week? About your identity, character or purpose as a Christ-follower?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

Week 45 (11/15)

Christian Life - Small Group Warm Up Question:

What is a favorite memory of yours from growing up in church?

Psalms & Proverbs

Psalm 126 ~ Psalm 127 ~ Psalm 128 ~ Proverbs 26:17-28

1. What does the word “restore” mean? What does it imply about the previous situation? What does it describe about the current situation?

2. While we don’t know the details of what specific events are being described by Psalm 126, we can see their descriptions of their feelings. What are some of their responses to God’s mercy and blessing that stand out to you in Psalm 126?

3. When was a time in your life when you believe the Lord “restored” you by showing you mercy and blessing? How did that make you feel? What are some of the “great things” the Lord has done for you? (Psalm 126:3)

4. The Negeb is a very dry section of southern Israel. What is the significance of asking God for a blessing “like streams in the Negeb”? (Psalm 126:4)

5. Grain seed is the edible harvest that is used to make food such as bread. The same seed is used for planting the next year’s crops. What is the significant investment/risk a farmer takes at the time of planting? Why would a farmer be “weeping” when he goes out to plant the “seed for sowing”? Why would a farmer “come home with shouts of joy” at harvest time? (Psalm 126:5-6)

6. How did Jesus “sow” Himself on the cross? As a dead “seed” into the ground? How did He “sow in tears”? How did Christ “reap”? How did Jesus “come home with shouts of joy”? Who are the “his sheaves” that He brings with Him?

7. What can Christians “sow” with their lives and labors? How might such efforts result in “tears” and “weeping”? What do Christians “reap with shouts of joy”?

8. Why do you think Psalm 127:1 is such a popular verse? How would you summarize and explain this verse to a child? How would you summarize and explain the rest of Psalm 127? What do you think God is trying to teach you through Psalm 127?

9. How can you tell is a child respects their parents? How can you tell if a student respects their teacher? How can you tell if a patient respects their doctor? How can you tell if someone “fears the Lord”? (Psalm 128:1)

10. How does our spiritual faithfulness bless our work, marriage, and parenting? (Psalm 128:2-3) Conversely, how does spiritual unfaithfulness curse one’s work, marriage, and parenting?

11. How would Israel’s faithfulness to God spiritually bless the nations around them? Does your country spiritually bless or curse the nations around it? How does your life spiritually benefit your family? Neighbors? Co-workers? Classmates?

General Discussion Questions

• What can you learn about God from these passages? His work? His character? How can this help you grow in your trust of Him?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

Week 46 (11/22)

Christian Life - Small Group Warm Up Question:

What sins do you see as dominating in popularity today? How can we best respond in truth and love?

Psalms & Proverbs

Psalm 129 ~ Psalm 130 ~ Psalm 131 ~ Proverbs 27

1. Psalm 129 describes the confidence Israel can have in God, based on their past experiences of deliverance from those who hate them. How has God grown your confidence in Him since you first became a Christian?

2. How does the Psalmist describe his suffering? What are some ways you see Christians being “afflicted” today?

3. How does the Psalmist pray for deliverance? How can we pray for deliverance of the Christians who are being persecuted today?

4. What does it feel like to be in the “depths” or low places in life? Psalm 130 begins with a plea for God to pay attention and listen to their prayer for relief. Do we pray this way? Should we pray this way? Why or why not?

5. Read Psalm 130:3-4. How would you summarize or restate the point the Psalmist is making?

6. How would you define “hope”? What does the phrase, “don’t get your hopes up” mean or imply? Why can the Psalmist so confidently claim to be waiting and hoping in the Lord? How can we gain and maintain a similar confidence in the Lord? How does such a confidence change your perspective and attitude?

7. What does the writer do to keep himself calm and relaxed? (Psalm 131:1) What sort of things in life get you worked up or anxious? How do you try to calm yourself? What steps could you take to minimize your anxiety and calm your soul?

8. Why is a young infant at peace in its mother’s presence? How can we have such peace in the midst of so much chaos in life? Why is this peace described as a forever peace? (Psalm 131:2-3)

9. What is your favorite truth from Proverbs 27? Why?

10. What are some ways we “boast about tomorrow”? Why does God warn us not to do that? (Proverbs 27:1)

11. What are ways you see people praise themselves today? Why is that dangerous? Why do people do that? What are ways to protect ourselves from that temptation? (Proverbs 27:2)

12. Why is “open rebuke” better than “hidden love”? How can we apply this to our lives? (Proverbs 27:5)

13. What are the “wounds of a friend”? How are those wounds “faithful”? (Proverbs 27:6) How can this help us to be a better friend and to seek better friends?

14. Why do you think Proverbs 27:17 is so popular? How would you explain this verse to a child?

15. What does it mean that the “heart of man reflects the man” (Proverbs 27:19)? If we see that we have “heart” problems reflected in our lives, what can we do about it?

16. How can you see in today’s society that “never satisfied are the eyes of man” (Proverbs 27:20)? What steps can we better take to protect ourselves from this temptation?

General Discussion Questions

• What was something new you noticed this week? What impacted you the most? Why?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

Week 47 (11/29)

Christian Life - Small Group Warm Up Question:

Share a time when God grew you significantly (a mission trip, a retreat, a conference, a camp, a tough season, etc.)?

Psalms & Proverbs

Psalm 132 ~ Psalm 133 ~ Psalm 134 ~ Proverbs 28:1-14

1. When David was King of Israel, how did things go for Israel? Why? What do you remember of how David finished as King? What happened after his rule? Why?

2. The Psalmist begins Psalm 132 with a focus on David’s faithfulness to God in building the temple. What request is the Psalmist making? Why would the Psalmist bring up David’s faithfulness in the midst of such a request?

3. When they pray for the Lord to be in their midst (Psalm 132:8 “your resting place”, i.e. the temple in Jerusalem), what sort

4. The word Messiah comes from the transliterated Hebrew word for “Anointed” and the word Christ comes from the transliterating “Anointed” into Greek (ESV Study Bible). What connection do you see in Psalm 132:10 pointing forward to Jesus, according to the promises to David (Psalm 132:11-12, 17)?

5. Read Psalm 132:13-18. How does this description bring to mind a foretaste of Heaven?

6. Have you ever experienced a time of division within your church family? Within your biological/adopted/marriage family? Within your workplace? All of the above? What does it feel like to be in such situations of turmoil? In contrast, what is the experience of “unity” in relationships like? (Psalm 133:1)

7. Psalm 133 uses the imagery of a priest being anointed in comparison with “unity.” How does peace in relationships demonstrate our “holiness” in being set apart for God’s purposes?

8. Psalm 133 also uses the imagery of a mountain rising above the landscape as the visible source of water for the region. How does peace in relationships bring life to others around Christians?

9. Read Psalm 134. What do you think the purpose is for this Psalm? What does it teach? How does it encourage you?

10. Why would the wicked flee “when no one pursues”? Why would the righteous be as “bold as a lion”? How have you experienced or observed this personally? (Proverbs 28:1)

11. How might Proverbs 28:2 apply to what you have observed in your nation’s government? How might this guide your prayers for your country?

12. Would you rather be rich or poor? Why? What are the temptations that the rich face? What temptations might the poor face? What important truths can we learn from Proverbs 28:6,8,11 about being rich or poor? How do these verses encourage you in your relationship with money?

13. Proverbs 28:13-14 reveal two attitudes towards God in regard to sin. What are the promises? How might this motivate and direct us in our daily prayer life?

General Discussion Questions

• Context Questions: Who is writing this? Who is it being written to? When? Why? What type of writing is this? How does this matter to my understanding of the meaning of these chapters?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

DECEMBER

Week 48 (12/6)

Christian Life - Small Group Warm Up Question:

What is your biggest hope and prayer for the future of your church?

Psalms & Proverbs

Psalm 135 ~ Psalm 136 ~ Psalm 137 ~ Proverbs 28:15-28

1. What was a game you played as a child that involved being “chosen”? What did it feel like to hear your name called out? To be picked for a good team? Read Psalm 135:4 & 1 Peter 2:9-10. How does it feel to know that the Creator of the universe chose you, called you by name, and wants you on His “team”

2. Have you ever known someone who does whatever they want? What are the characteristics of someone like that? Read Psalm 115:3 & 135:6. What do you think about God doing whatever He wants? Do you struggle with this reality, that God does whatever He wants? Why or why not? How do you think verses 7-14 help us? How can this truth comfort our souls in times of suffering and difficulty?

3. What are some of the purposes of idols in the Bible? Why would people worship them? What are some of the “idols” you see today? How do people “worship” them? Why do people “worship” them? (Psalm 135:15-17) Why does God warn us about idols? (Psalm 135:18)

4. Psalm 135 finishes with an emphasis on calling everyone to “bless the Lord” (Psalm 135:19-21). Why is blessing the Lord important? When can we do that? How can we do that?

5. If someone asked you to summarize the purpose and meaning of Psalm 136, how would you respond? What has God taught you through Psalm 136?

6. What are some of the differences between human “love” and God’s perfect love? (Psalm 136)

7. Look at the descriptions of God in Psalm 136. Why do you think these particular descriptions were given to us? Which is your favorite descriptor of God here? Why?

8. How would you describe your “low estate” before you were born again? (Psalm 136:23) What “foes” did God rescue you from? (Psalm 136:24) How has God provided for your needs? (Psalm 136:25) How do these reminders make us more grateful to God? How do these reminders specific evidence God’s particular, steadfast love towards you?

9. What do you think it would be like for your nation to be invaded, conquered, and for you and your family to be forced to move into the land of the conquering nation? What emotions would you experience? What would you miss most? What would you pray for? How would you pray concerning your enemies? Understanding that the Israelites were in exile as captives in Babylon, how does Psalm 137 reveal their heart and their priorities?

10. Why do some people get so passionate about political leadership and elections? What differences does a bad leader make? What differences does a good leader make? How might Proverbs 28:15-16 direct our prayers in regards to our governmental leaders?

11. What do you think about the work ethic in your country today? In your workplace? Read Proverbs 28:19. How have you seen this truth play out in life? What are some “worthless pursuits” you see people choosing today?

General Discussion Questions

• What do these passages teach us about our enemies’ attacks (deceptions, distractions, discouragement, and temptations)? How can we better resist these attacks?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

Week 49 (12/13)

Christian Life - Small Group Warm Up Question:

What is your biggest hope and prayer for your family?

Psalms & Proverbs

Psalm 138 ~ Psalm 139 ~ Psalm 140 ~ Proverbs 29

1. What are you most thankful for in your life? When did you last thank God specifically for them? What does it mean to be half-hearted? What does it mean to be whole-hearted? How do you want to be more genuinely whole-hearted in our thanks-giving to God? (Psalm 138:1)

2. If a child is ungrateful, how would you teach that child to be more thankful for what they have? How can you recognize sincere gratitude in a child? As a child of God, how has God taught you to be more grateful? What is the Psalmist most thankful for in Psalm 138:2? Why?

3. Have you ever called, texted, emailed, or messaged someone and been intentionally ignored? What did that feel like? Why? If you could call, text, email, or message a celebrity, who would you call and why? How would you feel if they refused to respond to your communication? Why? Now think about the Creator of the Universe. Psalm 138:3 says “On the day I called, you answered me.” Think about how God gives you a way to communicate with Him. Invites you to call upon Him. Chooses to listen to your voice. Loves to answer your prayer, even though you are “lowly” compared to Him (Psalm 138:6). What is God teaching you now? About prayer? About gratitude? About God?

4. What are some of the “troubles” God has rescued you from in the past? For which you are most grateful? (Psalm 138:7) What “purpose” do you think God has for you? (Psalm 138:8) In light of all for which you are grateful, how does that impact your desire to live in God’s “purpose” for you?

5. Look over Psalm 139:1-6. What does God know about you? What does God not know about you? How should we respond to God’s knowledge?

6. Look over Psalm 139:7-12. Where does God go? How does reality impact you?

7. Look over Psalm 139:13-16. Why is God’s creation of us in our mother’s womb so significant? What does the Psalmists description of pre-born human children reveal about him?

8. Why do think lost souls fight so hard to disregard infants as human life? Why do you think there is such a demonic effort to murder babies in the womb? What does our attitude about pre-born human children reveal about us?

9. What do you think about how Psalm 139 ends?

10. What are some ways Christians might pray for protection and deliverance today? Where you live? In other countries? How should we pray to God on behalf of the next generation of Christians?

11. Why do you think Proverbs 29 uses so many contrasting examples? What are some of your favorites? Why?

12. How do you see people “squandering wealth” on sexual sin today? (Proverbs 29:3) What other examples from Proverbs 29 do you see playing out today?

13. If you were to write your own piece of wisdom, in the style of Proverbs 29, what wisdom would you prioritize to share with the next generation?

General Discussion Questions

• What did you learn about humanity or yourself in the readings this week? About your identity, character or purpose as a Christ-follower?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

Week 50 (12/20)

Christian Life - Small Group Warm Up Question:

What Christmas traditions help you remember and celebrate the true meaning of Jesus’ birth?

Psalms & Proverbs

Psalm 141 ~ Psalm 142 ~ Psalm 143 ~ Proverbs 30

1. When do you remember King David being in positions of desperation? What sort of struggles do you think he may have faced as a King? How does it help to think of David more personally as you read Psalm 141? How do you connect personally with the prayer of Psalm 141?

2. What was the purpose of incense and sacrifices in the Bible? How is prayer similar? How do we usually think of prayer? (Psalm 141:2)

3. Psalm 141 requests God’s protection to remain faithful, sincere, uncompromising in the face of dangers or threats. When have you been treated wrongly due to your faith? How have you been tempted to compromise your faith in such seasons? Why is Psalm 141:3-4 such a help in such situations? How does Psalm 141:9 help you? How does Psalm 141 encourage you to maintain a good witness for Jesus?

4. How can we pray against “evil deeds” today? What would you prioritize in those prayers? (Psalm 141:5)

5. Psalm 142, like Psalm 57, probably describes David’s escape from Saul into a cave in 1 Samuel 22:1 or 24:3. Have you ever felt like you were being “chased” by an enemy in a particular situation? Like you were “hiding” in a cave? What was that like? How did David respond through Psalm 142?

6. Compare Psalm 142 with Psalm 57. What similarities do you notice? What differences?

7. If you were to write out a song or prayer to God in a “cave moment”, what might you write?

8. Psalm 143 is a “penitential psalm”, or a song of confession of sin (similar to Psalm 6, 32, 38, 51, & 130). Read Psalm 143:2. How can you relate to this prayer? How do you intentionally seek to ask God for forgiveness and mercy for your sins? How has God grown you in the practice of confession to Him?

9. What is the purpose of “remembering”, “meditating”, and “pondering” on God’s past works in biblical history? (Psalm 143:5)

10. Do you prefer to lead or take directions when you are walking or driving somewhere? What is hard about leading? What is important in leading? What is hard in following? What is important in following? As a Psalm of repentance (penitential), Why do you think this Psalm says “make me know the way I should go” and “let your good Spirit lead me on level ground”? (Psalm 143:8, 10)

11. What is your favorite piece of wisdom from Proverbs 30? Why?

12. Why do you think Proverbs 30 starts out the way it does? What is the connection between the first 4 verses and verses 5 & 6?

13. What do you think about Proverbs 30:8, “give me neither poverty nor riches”? Would you pray this way? Why or why not?

14. If you could be like any animal, which would you pick and why? What do you think about Proverbs 30:24-28?

General Discussion Questions

• What can you learn about God from these passages? His work? His character? How can this help you grow in your trust of Him?

Application Questions:How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

Week 51 (12/27)

Christian Life - Small Group Warm Up Question:

Looking back at the past year, what were some ways you grew spiritually?

Psalms & Proverbs

Psalm 144 ~ Psalm 145 ~ Psalm 146 ~ Proverbs 31:1-9

1. When was a time that you felt under attack? When is a time in your future where you will feel a similar sense of being overwhelmed or helpless? Read Psalm 144:1-2. How does God encourage you with His names?

2. When are times that people are tempted to feel lonely? Purposeless? Worthless? How does Psalm 144:3-4 overwhelm you with significance and love?

3. Psalm 144:12 speaks to the desire for one’s sons and daughters to mature and impactful. What are some of the ways you pray for your children or grandchildren?

4. Psalm 144:13-14 is a prayer for material blessing? Is it wrong to pray for prosperity? When might it be ok to pray this way? When might it be wrong to pray this way?

5. Why is it important to bless God’s name every day? (Psalm 145:1-2) What does it look like to do that? Why do you think the phrase “The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love” (Psalm 145:8) is so often repeated across the Scriptures? How could this guide our prayers?

6. When you see all of the ongoing evil in the world, how does Psalm 145:20 help you?

7. Why do you think so many people put so much trust, faith, and hope in their government leaders? What is the danger in that? (Psalm 146:3-4)

8. What connections do you see between Psalm 146:5-10 and Jesus?

9. When the end of a year comes, and the beginning of a new year approaches, why do so many people make “New Year’s resolutions”? What is the purpose? How does one go about making a resolution? What are some keys to a successful resolution? In Proverbs 31:2, the question “What are you doing?” is repeated three times. How is the key question to establishing a good resolution?

10. What are the two warnings of the oracle to King Lemuel from his mother? (Proverbs 31:3-5) What warnings would you prioritize for your children? Why?

11. King Lemuel’s positive encouragements come in verses 8 & 9. Why do you think these are priorities for him as a king? What are some of your priorities in your role where God has placed you?

General Discussion Questions

• What was something new you noticed this week? What impacted you the most? Why?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

JANUARY

Week 52 (1/3)

Christian Life - Small Group Warm Up Question:

Looking forward to the next year, what plans are you making to better love God and others?

Psalms & Proverbs

Psalm 147 ~ Psalm 148 ~ Psalm 149 ~ Psalm 150 ~ Proverbs 31:10-31

1. When have you been most “brokenhearted”? How did God heal and grow you through that season? (Psalm 147:3)

2. When you think of the fact that God created, named, and determined the exact number of stars in the universe (Psalm 147:4), yet knew your name from the foundation of the universe (Revelation 17:8), how do these realities affect you? What does it tell you about your significance to God?

3. What does the world try to push as keys to a “successful life”? According to Psalm 147:10-11, what pleases the Lord? How should these truths affect our priorities in life?

4. How would you summarize Psalm 148 in one sentence? How should this be the goal of our life?

5. Why are songs so powerful, impactful, and helpful? What are some Christian songs that you have found yourself singing in your bed? (Psalm 149:5)

6. While our lives are designed to “praise the Lord”, our songs are a verbalization and specific expression of those praises. What are some highlights you see in Psalm 150 about biblical songs of praise? What are some of your favorite characteristics of singing in your church?

7. What are some of the characteristics that stand out to you about the “Proverbs 31 woman”? If you were to highlight some of your favorite characteristics about the women in your life (wife, daughters, mother, grandmother, etc.), what would you highlight? Why?

8. Proverbs 31:10-31 is essentially a list of genuine compliments about a woman “who fears the Lord.” Do you struggle with giving compliments? Why or why not? Why do you think genuine compliments (not flattery) are so important? How do genuine compliments help you? What are some biblical characteristics you prioritize in your own life? Why?

9. Why is someone’s trust such a compliment to their character? (Proverbs 31:11) How is trust gained? How is trust lost?

10. What are some ways in which you see the “Proverbs 31 woman” fulfilling the command to love others? In what ways does Proverbs 31 reveal the priorities of those relationships? Who are the priorities that God has called you to love? How can you love them better over the next year?

11. Proverbs 31:30 mentions “charm” and “beauty” as two worldly priorities that ultimately fail. What does the world today highlight as its priorities for women? For men? How do those priorities ultimately fail? Why is one “who fears the Lord” the ultimate foundational characteristic to these other praiseworthy descriptions? (Proverbs 31:30)

General Discussion Questions

• Context Questions: Who is writing this? Who is it being written to? When? Why? What type of writing is this? How does this matter to my understanding of the meaning of these chapters?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)