Then sings my soul

There are many reasons why believers are to worship God in any circumstances. Worshiping God might be easier when life is smooth sailing, however, the reality of life as Jesus’ followers is not always like that. We often face pressures and challenges, but Pastor Heather reminds us that God remains faithful in those times. We have to learn how worship can help us in times of challenge, and understand that just as God was at work through Paul and Silas in Acts 16, He is at work in and through us.

Read Acts 16:16-30

Discuss

1. What is one of your favourite praise/worship songs? Why? When do you normally listen to it?
2. How have you experienced or witnessed the power of praise and worship?
3. What did the crowd and the magistrates do to Paul and Silas before throwing them into prison? Why do you think Paul and Silas were still able to praise God?
4. Ps. Heather teaches us to recognise the source of a challenge/hardship. Have you ever put the blame on God for your challenges? When did you realise what God was doing in that situation? Share your journey.
5. We need to recognise who God is and what He is up to in our hardship. How can we become stronger in our faith foundation and more sensitive to what God is doing in our life, especially in hardships?
6. Read Acts 16:29-34. What happened to the jailor? Do you think Paul and Silas’ suffering/persecution and subsequent praising of God had anything to do with the salvation of the jailor? Why or why not?

Respond

Not only can praising and worshiping God in the midst of a challenge bring breakthrough to our circumstances, but it can also witness God’s character to the people around us. The jailor’s life and his whole household were forever changed because Paul and Silas were led to sing praises to God in their sufferings. This week, how can you bring your praise and worship of God to your circle of influence?

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