What is the greatest joy you have ever experienced? Why was it the greatest?

What was the greatest sorrow you have ever experienced?

Who do you remember walking through those times with you? What difference did they make?

Read John 16:16-19. When was the last time you felt like the disciples when experiencing God’s truth? Do you ever feel like Jesus is asking you, "Are you struggling with what I’m saying?" If so, how do you handle the situation?

In John 16:20 Jesus tells the disciples that they will mourn while the world rejoices, but He goes on and tells them that their grief will turn to joy. How do you feel knowing that so many rejoiced at Jesus’ death? Do you think that would happen today? Explain your answer. Have you ever had the Lord turn your sorrow to joy? If you are comfortable, please share.

Read and examine Psalm 73:1-28. What part(s) of this psalm resonate the most with you and why? As Asaph wrestles with his situation and ultimately with God, where does it lead him? Why is this so important for us today? Verses 21-28 are an anthem for those who are going through a storm. What parts of these verses give a Hope to hang on to?

The first verse of the song, "It is Well with My Soul" goes like this…
"When peace, like a river, attendeth my way, when sorrows like sea billows roll; whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say, it is well, with my soul. It is well, it is well, with my soul."
Analyze these words. How do they touch you? What is different in these words than how you would normally feel?
Verse three… "My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought! My sin, not in part but the whole, is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more, praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul! It is well, with my soul, it is well, it is well, with my soul."
What is songwriter Horatio Spafford saying with this verse? Why is this important?

Read Romans 12:12. What truths are spoken through this short verse that those in the midst of a storm can cling to?

Jesus says to "take heart," which means to be courageous or daring in Him. Ask the Lord this week to show you where you need to take more heart.

Trouble is a part of our world. Spend time this week really praying for someone in the middle of a storm. Spend time praying for our world, country and community where there is often trouble. Spend time praying or praising God for the storm you are in or coming out of.

Lord, thank You for all of the times You have guided me when a rogue wave hit my life. I know that I could not have made it through those times if it weren’t for Your hand guiding me, helping me up, or outright carrying me.
I ask You, Lord, to please continue to be there, not only for me, but for all of those trying to navigate through this world of sorrow that we are currently a part of. Help us all to remember and trust that You are in control and even through our times of pain, You love us and are constantly pushing against the dread with Your immaculate joy and peace that only You can give. Go with us now, into this next week, continuing to watch over us. In Your Holy Name, Amen.