Discussion Notes (for use in a small group or individual study)
Sermon: Renewal of Hope
(Phone apps are good for comparing multiple translations. Study Bibles help with interpretation.)

Questions:
1. Icebreaker question: Do you have a testimony of a time when you felt hopeless, but the Lord dramatically turned things around? What happened?
2. Key Scriptures to review: Malachi 4:2-6, Luke 1:5-25
3. The sermon focused on how we can be people of hope. What do you remember about each of the main points? What stood out to you or impacted you?
4. What is the difference between faith and hope?
5. Read 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 (Paul here discusses a difficult struggle in his life that he refers to as a “thorn”. We don’t know exactly what it was that he was dealing with).
a) Which points from the sermon outline can you see reflected in the way Paul dealt with his struggle?
b) Do you have a “thorn” that you are dealing with in your life right now? If so, can you see ways that God is using it to strengthen you?
6. Read 1 Samuel 23:15-18
a) What steps did Jonathan take to encourage David?
b) What do you think most helped David to find his strength in God?
c) Do you ever struggle to know how to encourage a hopeless person? (Sentiments like, “You’re in our thoughts and prayers” are nice but can sometimes feel lacking)
d) What can you personally apply from Jonathan’s approach?
e) Do you know of someone that you could reach out to this week to help them find hope again?
7. Break into growth groups (2-4 of the same gender)
a) Is anyone dealing with weariness or hopelessness?
b) Discuss any points from the sermon (or any other ideas) that might help.
c) Take some time to pray for renewal of hope in your lives. Pray in the mighty name of Jesus and expect results!