If God is all-loving… and God is all powerful… why is there suffering? If there is a God, why is He not doing something about the suffering? Where is God in the midst of suffering? That’s a great question. It’s a question that can be answered with a simple punctuation change. Let’s talk about it.

Philippians 4:6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

For Adult Homes and Groups
Below is an outline of today’s message. Share within your group some life experiences you have had that demonstrate the truth of these statements.

Message Outline:
• We suffer: There are things that cause us to be anxious.
- Suffering is a part of everyday life.
- Suffering robs us of peace.
- Suffering is not distributed equally.
• An all-powerful God loves you: We can prayerfully trust God with our suffering.
• We live in the tension of those two truths: You can have peace.

For Families with Kids
1. Share something that worries you about the future.
2. Do you know that God is in control of your present and your future? How does this change your fear?
3. Read Philippians 4:6-7 together. For younger children, you may need to summarize the verse.
4. When you’re worried, do you think to pray? If not, how can you be reminded to do so?
5. This week, listen to a song called “Already There” by Casting Crowns. Can you relate to the lyrics? What’s the source of hope in this song?