Into the Wilderness: The Land in Between
In this discussion based on Shawn’s June 11 sermon, we will dive into the wilderness, the “land in between”. Like the Hebrew people in the book of Exodus—it is when we release control to God in the wilderness that we experience transformation and gain perspective.
1.Read Exodus 4:1-13. Discuss this interaction between Moses and God. How does Moses’ lack of confidence seem to block his wonder at the signs God is showing him? Can you relate to Moses here? What does it say about God that God still wants to work through Moses?
2. Read Isaiah 43:16-19. This passage references the Exodus story and God’s deliverance of God’s people away from Egypt, through the wilderness, to the Promised Land. Yet, speaking through Isaiah in verses 18 and 19, the Lord tells His people exiled in Babylon (away from the Promised Land): “forget the former things…I am making a way in the wilderness.”
Reflect on any of the following questions that stir up a response in you:
In what ways has God delivered you in the past?
Do you have a “wilderness” experience that God used to transform you? What “new things” has God opened up for you through the wilderness?
If you feel that you’re in the “land in between” right now, how can you lean into your faith, trusting that God is with you and will see you through? What do you need to let go of in order to fully trust that this is true?
3. In his sermon, Shawn pointed out that the wilderness is where we lose control, where we grow, and where we learn perspective. Discuss how the loss of control (usually thought of as a bad thing) is often the catalyst for our transformation. Feel free to reflect on your own life experiences here.
