G. ADDRESSING EMOTIONAL NEEDS

A lady came up to me recently and shared that she had been watching the news and it made her so fearful about the future. Should we set aside food and water for the coming disaster? She was genuinely concerned and wanted to make a financial investment in preparing for future disasters. What does God say about all this? What should I do? Here is the verse that I would coach her through.

1 Peter 4:7-11 (NIV):

 ⁷ The end of all things is near. Therefore, be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. ⁸ Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. ⁹ Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. ¹⁰ Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. ¹¹ If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.

1. When you read this passage, what thoughts come to your mind?

2. What fears do you experience as you look at the future?

3. What do you think it means to be alert and sober of mind?

4. How does hospitality fit into the fear of the future?

5. Where do spiritual gifts fit into future thinking?

1. What practical steps can you take to focus your mind on what is most important?

2. What does this passage teach as we look into the future?

3. How will this work in your normal life?

4. What is one action you can do to deal with fear of the future?

5. When do you want to get started with that action?

6. How can I be of help in seeing you put this action into your life?