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Date: December 13, 2020
Shaking Off Fear
The Point: God is our defender no matter what we face.
Get Into the Study
As you introduce today’s session, share this video (or share a screenshot) of a gigantic alligator strolling across a golf course in Florida.
Explain that while alligators aren’t uncommon on this golf course, the size of this one has garnered news attention across the country and even around the world.
Ask: How would you have reacted to this alligator if you were on the golf course? Who would you have wanted to have with you?
Emphasize that fear is a reasonable response to threats. Fear can keep us from acting foolishly. However, fear can also paralyze us if we let it get the best of us. Knowing that we have someone else with us can help us face our fears. In this session we will see that we never have to face our fears alone. God is our defender no matter what we face.
Nikki Wilbanks grew up in Tennessee before heading to California to study literature at Pepperdine University. After graduation, she enjoyed a decade-long career as a commercial real estate appraiser and investor. Having returned to Tennessee with her husband, she is now thrilled to be a stay-at-home mom, writer, and Bible study teacher.
Get Into the Study [Additional Option from Adult Leader Guide]
In advance, play this video clip to help group members relate to things that cause us to be afraid. Then ask Question #1.
Study the Bible [Option from Advanced Bible Study Teacher Guide)
After reading and discussing Psalm 91:106, display these images of things that make some people experience fear. Use these images to discuss fear and the hold fear can have on us.
Live It Out
Use the following illustration as you conclude today’s session.
MotorTrend has named the Land Rover Defender the 2021 SUV of the Year. In the announcement, MotorTrend highlighted the all-terrain attributes of the Defender, noting “Sport utility vehicles as we know them have transformed from go-anywhere tools . . . Most vehicles we refer to today as SUVs are actually CUVs—car-based crossovers lifted up in the air a few inches, not for ground clearance but because people like to sit up high.” The announcement added, “Yet if asked to traverse great swaths of rutted, tumbling African trails, the Defender is a steadfast, undeterred companion and guide.” The Defender is designed to keep the driver and passenger safe in most all terrains, off-road and on.
If the consumer’s expectations have been lowered when it comes to what the typical SUV can handle, we must not lower our expectations when it comes to what God can handle. Our God is the true defender—our steadfast, undeterred companion and guide. We have nothing to fear, safe and secure in His protection.
Nikki Wilbanks grew up in Tennessee before heading to California to study literature at Pepperdine University. After graduation, she enjoyed a decade-long career as a commercial real estate appraiser and investor. Having returned to Tennessee with her husband, she is now thrilled to be a stay-at-home mom, writer, and Bible study teacher.
Additional Questions
Icebreaker
- What’s an example of a healthy fear?
- What are some things you do to keep your fear at bay?
- What childhood fear do you laugh about now?
Psalm 91:1-6
- Which of the metaphors in this passage helps you feel most secure?
- What’s the difference between worry and fear?
- In what ways is God like a fortress?
Psalm 91:9-13
- What are some of the biggest threats to our safety today?
- How can we look for God’s protection while we are suffering and afraid?
- How would you encourage someone who suffered pain even while trusting God?
Psalm 91:14-16
- What kinds of things are promised to those who set their hearts on God?
- Which phrase from Psalm 91 will you hold most closely this week?
- When have you seen God rescue someone and give them honor?
For Those in Your Group
Send the following link to your group members as either a teaser before the group meets or as a follow-up thought:
Playing the “Who Would Win?” Game
Podcast
Click here for a 20-minute podcast for both the group member and the leader.
Tips for Leading Bible Study Groups
Podcast (adultsleadertraining): Play in new window | Download
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