Longing for Peace in a Hostile World: Discussion Guide
This sermon explores Psalm 120, the first of the Psalms of Ascent, which begins with a cry of distress from someone feeling trapped in a world of lies and hostility. The psalm addresses how believers should live as faithful sojourners in a hostile world, longing for true peace (shalom) while surrounded by those who reject it. The psalmist demonstrates that in times of distress, we should cry out to God and trust Him to make things right, rather than trying to find peace on our own terms.
Intro Prayer
Lord, as we gather to discuss Your Word, open our hearts to understand what it means to be sojourners in this world. Help us recognize where we've believed the world's lies about peace and contentment. Guide our discussion and show us how to find true shalom in You. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Ice Breaker
What's your favorite road trip memory from childhood?
Key Verses
Psalm 120:1
1 Peter 2:11
Romans 1:25
Romans 12:18-19
Questions
What does it mean to be a 'sojourner' in this world, and how have you experienced this in your own life? \
How would you define 'shalom' and how is it different from our typical understanding of peace?
What are some common lies our culture tells us about finding peace and contentment?
When you feel distressed or isolated, what's typically your first response?
How can you make turning to God your first instinct?
How does knowing that God always answers impact your prayer life?
In what ways have you tried to find peace on your own terms instead of God's?
How does Jesus' sacrifice relate to our search for true peace?
What practical steps can we take to resist being shaped by the world's values and instead be shaped by God's truth?
Life Application
This week, identify one area where you've believed the world's lies about finding peace or contentment. Commit to bringing that area to God in prayer daily, asking Him to replace those lies with His truth and to help you find true shalom in Him.
Key Takeaways
True peace (shalom) can only be found in God, not in the world's counterfeits
As believers, we are sojourners in a world that opposes God's peace
God always hears and answers His people's cries for help
Jesus took God's judgment upon Himself to give us the peace we long for
Perfect justice will come through God's timing, not our own efforts
Ending Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that this world is not our home. Help us to resist the lies that promise peace apart from You. Give us the courage to cry out to You in our distress and the faith to trust Your timing for justice. Thank You for sending Jesus to give us true shalom. Guide us as we journey toward our eternal home with You. In Jesus' name, Amen.