Elijah's Encounter With God Group Guide

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Start Off

• Let’s begin our time by acknowledging the presence of God in our Group. We’ll use a physical item to remind us that God is right here with us (like a candle, small cross, etc.). Let’s take a few deep breaths and open in prayer.
• Looking back, did anyone do any of the five daily practices from the last Group Guide? If so, is there a day that stood out to you?
• For a quick summary of the message, you can take turns reading the summary and key thoughts from the “Sermon Notes” portion on main page of the Chase Oaks App.
• This week’s message (“Elijah’s Encounter with God”) reveals how God responds in our darkest, loneliest moments. Share about a time when someone encouraged you simply by being present rather than trying to solve your problem. Why did that mean so much?

Reflect on God’s Word

• Read 1 Kings 19:1-18 (you can take turns reading 2-3 verses each).
• What events led up to Elijah's emotional collapse?
• What physical and emotional condition do we find Elijah in under the broom tree?
• Why do you think God cared for Elijah's physical needs before speaking to him spiritually?
• God revealed himself in a gentle whisper. What might the gentle whisper teach us about how God often works in our lives?
• What does God's response reveal about his character?

Go Deeper

• Have you ever experienced a season where you felt emotionally, spiritually, or physically exhausted?
• Which of Elijah's experiences (loneliness, fear, criticism, disappointment, silence from God) do you relate to most?
• How has God "made breakfast" for you, showing his care in practical ways?
• What distractions keep you from hearing God's whisper today?
• What is one "next step" God may be asking you to take instead of trying to solve everything at once?

Wrap Up

• What was a win for today’s meeting? Where did we see the Holy Spirit show up?
• Share prayer request and things you are thankful for, and then take turns praying for one another. To close the time of prayer, read this week’s verse to meditate on (Isaiah 41:10) and then pray: Father, we thank you that you meet us in our weakest moments with compassion instead of condemnation. When we feel overwhelmed, remind us that your presence is enough and that you will give us strength for the next step. Help us hear your gentle whisper above every lie, trust your faithful care, and become people who extend that same comfort to others. In Jesus' name. Amen.

VERSE TO MEDITATE ON AND MEMORIZE THIS WEEK

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10, NIV)

PUT IT INTO PRACTICE (BETWEEN MEETINGS)

Day 1 – It's Okay to Not Be Okay

Read 1 Kings 19:1-8. Reflect on areas where you've been pretending everything is fine. Bring those honestly before God in prayer. Write down what has been weighing on you and surrender it to God.

Day 2 – Receive God's Care

Read Matthew 11:28-30. Notice how Jesus invites weary people to come to him rather than perform for him. Build intentional rest into your day. Take a walk, unplug from technology, or spend quiet time with God without an agenda.

Day 3 – Listen for the Whisper

Read 1 Kings 19:9-13. God often speaks most clearly when we slow down. Spend 10-15 minutes in silence. Ask, "Lord, what do You want me to hear today?" Record any Scripture, thoughts, or impressions that align with God's character.

Day 4 – Trust God for the Next Step

Read Isaiah 41:10. God doesn't always provide the whole roadmap, but he promises his presence. Identify one faithful next step you've been avoiding and take it today.

Day 5 – Share Hope

Read 2 Corinthians 1:3-7. God comforts us so we can comfort others. Reach out to someone who may be struggling. Offer encouragement, pray with them, or simply be present, just as God was present with Elijah.