SOAR DISCUSSION GUIDE

Dale Sheppard grew up in Clayton Church of Christ – but at age 18, his world was shattered – a fatal bike accident left him quadriplegic and confined to a wheelchair. Now married and a father of two, he shared his perspective on suffering. If you missed his inspirational message we urge you to listen online.

Here are some thoughts and discussion questions based on Dale’s perspective on suffering..  

1. God is constantly shaping & preparing us for what lies ahead.  

• Dale shared about hearing ‘The Voice’ speaking words he later discovered in Hebrews 13:5&6.  

Have you had a similar experience, when viewed in hindsight, was God preparing you for something new or unexpected?  

Share your thoughts on Hebrews 13:5&6 and its relevance to your current or recent experiences.

1. Dale referred to looking at life / suffering thru the ‘what if’ principle.

• Read Romans 9: 17 – 24. Note particularly v 17 and v 23. Also read John 9:1 – 3.
• So often in suffering we focus on ‘me’ (poor me / why me etc.) But this principle says: ‘it’s not about me – it’s about Him’ – God and His glory.

Do we agree that God is sovereign and has the right to allow good or bad things to happen to us?

Why are we so self-centered when we suffer? What difference does it make when we look at life/suffering thru the ‘what if principle’?

1. Surrender results in strength in our suffering.

• Read the familiar passage 2 Corinthians 12: 7 – 10. We all struggle, we all suffer. But sadly sometimes, we will not admit our need of help. Dale shared how indescribable peace came over him as he prayed: ‘Lord, I’m sorry. I can’t do this on my own. I need your help’
• He stated many times: it is hard / it is not easy / it’s frustrating. But then he was quick to also say ‘I am thankful to God for what happened!’

Are we able to embrace God’s ‘No’ if it means no miracle but continued pain and suffering?

Are we comfortable, even glad, for God’s strength to be seen in the midst of our weakness? Even if it means ‘losing face?’

Is there an area or issue in your life where you need strength? Will you surrender yourself and your situation to God? In your weakness and pain can you say ‘Thank you God – it’s not about me – it’s all about your glory!’  

This Week at 10am:  Join us as we ‘thank and farewell’ Pastor Kenny Koay and family.

Don’t forget, we’re switching to one 10am service on 20th November for the summer!