Part 1

When we are faced with problems that put us under stress, we can pray to God. Not only will He will answer our prayers, but He will also set us free (Psalm 118:5). However some distresses are meant to stay and rattle our cage. As followers of Jesus, our hearts are burdened by those who are yet to know Him. We are affected by persecuted people, poverty and injustices in the world. Unfortunately, these issues can be blinded by our own challenges and busyness in life.

Read [bible]Proverbs 21:13[/bible];[bible]Proverbs 29:7[/bible]

Discuss

1. Read Proverbs 29:7. In a consumeristic world that we live in today, what blinds us from the reality of poverty and injustice? How can we keep our eyes opened to those in need?
2. Read James 2:14-16. How does action impact our faith? What hinders us from putting our faith into action?
3. Have you ever experienced a situation where you had to be counter-cultural and put your faith into action regardless of what other people think? How did you do it? What was the outcome?
4. Read Proverbs 28:5. When we embrace Jesus in our lives, aware we are of injustices in the world. What is your understanding of this? How can we apply this to our day to day life?
5. Read Matthew 9:36 and Luke 7:13. Jesus’ heart is moved for those who are struggling in poverty and injustice. How can you relate to Jesus’ heart in the world today? What would it be like if you were to view the world through this lens?
6. Bob Pierce once prayed “let my heart be broken with the things that break the heart of God”. What would be the challenges before and after praying this prayer?

Respond

During His time on earth, Jesus engaged with people who were persecuted and marginalised. As a disciple of Jesus, what step of faith and action you can make today in your life?

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