Rob Renfroe - A Way Through the Wilderness Leader Guide: Growing in Faith When Life Is Hard

A WAY THROUGH THE WILDERNESS:
LEADER GUIDE

Copyright 2015 Abingdon Press
All rights reserved.

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ISBN 978-1-5018-0097-9

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version, NIV. Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com .

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Scripture quotations marked NRSV are taken from the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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All of us go through wilderness experiences in life. Often the wilderness brings us to the breaking point, if not physically, then emotionally and spiritually. Whether its the loss of a loved one, a financial or health crisis, divorce, or some other painful experience, we see no end in sight and wonder how we can make it through another day. Theres a way through the wilderness that leaves us broken and bitter and far away from God. But theres another way through the wildernessGods waythat makes us stronger, leaves us with a deeper faith, and draws us closer to God than we ever imagined.

Thats what this study is about: helping us find Gods way through the wilderness so that when we come out, we are more like Jesus than when we went in. Its not easy. The way of real transformation never is. But it is definitely worth it. In the light of eternity, we will agree with what the Apostle Paul told the Romans: I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us (Romans 8:18 NIV).

As group leader, your role is to facilitate the weekly group session using the book A Way Through the Wilderness, this leader guide, and the DVD. This guide includes detailed instructions for six one-hour group sessions (if you would like to extend the group session to 90 minutes, simply increase the time allowed for group discussion and prayer). Each session outline has four primary sections:

1. Charting the Course

2. Getting Started

3. Engaging the Material

4. Closing the Session

In Charting the Course, you will find a learning objective, themes for exploration, a key Scripture, a theological focus, and a list of preparation steps to take before the session. Getting Started equips you with an opening prayer and conversation starter. Then, Engaging the Material provides summary statements and questions that foster interaction with the video, the Scriptures, and the book, as well as an application activity that participants can undertake between group sessions. Finally, Closing the Session provides a final statement or brief activity and a written prayer to bring the session to a close.

As you prepare to lead each group session, be sure to thoroughly read and reflect upon the lesson plan and corresponding chapter in the book, as well as view the video segment. Familiarity with the content will help you to present the material thoroughly and carefully, being sensitive to the difficult circumstances that some group members may be experiencing. Recognize that some may be wrestling with God and struggling with doubts and questions. This study is an opportunity to model the love and compassion of Christ and invite the healing power of God to bring good from difficult life experiences. The lessons we learn in the wilderness can become gifts that we share with the world.

As you lead this study, remember that the Holy Spirit is your teacher and guide. Rely on his help, constantly pointing others to him as the perfect source of comfort and hope. Regardless of our circumstances, he is always faithful.

Begin your time of preparation with prayer. Pray for each member of the group, including yourself.

Before each session, familiarize yourself with the book content. Consider reading the chapter again. Prescreen the video segment.

Choose the session elements you will use during the group session, including the specific discussion questions you will cover. Be prepared to adjust the session as group members interact and questions arise. Allow for the Holy Spirit to move in and through the material, the group members, and you.

Secure a TV and a DVD player prior to the session. Test all your connections and video playback before group participants arrive.

Arrange the meeting space to enhance the learning process. Group members should be seated around a table or in a circle so that all can see each other. Moveable chairs are best, because the group will occasionally form pairs or small groups of 3 to 5 for discussion.

Bring Bibles for those who forget to bring one or who might not have one. (If someone is reading aloud, you might ask the person to identify from which translation he or she is reading.)

). Have paper and pens or pencils available.

You will want access to a chalkboard, whiteboard, or an easel in order to record responses from participants or write questions or quotations for discussion. Make sure your gathering space has these tools available, with adequate chalk or markers.

There is time provided in the first session to take care of any housekeeping items. You may find it helpful to review some of these items before every session.

Share information concerning the meeting space and schedule for the course. It is best if the course can run for six consecutive weeks.

Encourage participants to bring their Bible and book to each session.

The sessions are planned with the idea that participants will read the chapter ahead of time.

Share the ideas from Optional Ideas for Enhancing the Study that you plan to use (see ).

oIf you plan to implement Journaling, explain the various ways that participants may use the journal and encourage participants to bring a journal or notebook to the remaining sessions.

oIf you plan to implement Role Plays, ask for volunteers to participate. Let them know that you will be in touch with them a few days before the session to explain their roles.

Let participants know that sharing during the class sessions is completely voluntary. Encourage group members to participate as they feel comfortable. Remember that some will be eager to give answers or offer commentary, while others will need time to process and think.