Pictures of God's Providence in Suffering

How does God's providence and goodness help us endure through suffering? Join us this Sunday at CrossWinds Church in Spencer as we consider the answer from 2 Samuel 16.

Sermon Discussion

1. What is providence? How is God’s providence a comfort in hardship and suffering?
2. What is one takeaway from the sermon and one question that you had after hearing the sermon?
3. Read 2 Samuel 16:1–4; 19:24–30. What is Ziba doing here? How does God use Ziba’s selfishness and wickedness for good in David’s life?
4. Read 2 Samuel 16:10–12. What is David’s reasoning for enduring the slander of Shimei? How does David’s hope in God’s goodness (in spite of his sin) allow him to endure Shimei’s slander?
5. Read 2 Samuel 16:15–19. Discuss each statement from Hushai—what does he mean vs. how does Absalom interpret them?
6. How does God use the faithfulness of his people to accomplish his good purposes? How does God want to use you for good?
7. Read 2 Samuel 16:20–23; 12:11–12. How does God use evil desires to accomplish his purposes? How does this great evil accomplish good in David’s life?
8. How does 2 Samuel 16 provide you with hope, even in darkness?