Small Group Notes

1

Psalm 111 invites us not simply to notice God’s works but to “study” and remember them. What works of God — in Scripture or in your own life — help you see more clearly who God is?

Psalm 111:1–4 — remembering God’s works

Spend some time deliberately remembering God’s faithfulness. What might you be overlooking because present concerns are occupying your attention?

2

Verses 4–9 describe God as gracious, compassionate, faithful, just, trustworthy and holy. Which aspect of God’s character particularly speaks to you at present, and why?

Psalm 111:4–9 — God’s works reveal God’s character

Instead of beginning prayer with what you need God to do, begin by naming something you know to be true about who God is.

3

The sermon says, “Praise isn’t pretending there are no shadows in our lives; it is remembering, even within them, the light and faithfulness of God.” How can lament and praise genuinely exist together?

Psalm 109 → Psalm 111; 2 Corinthians 4

Are there circumstances in which you find praise particularly difficult? How might remembering God’s past faithfulness help without denying the reality of the difficulty?

4

Jesus says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” What does Matthew 11 add to our understanding of the gracious and compassionate God described in Psalm 111?

Matthew 11:25–30 — God's character revealed in Christ

What does it practically mean to bring a burden to Jesus rather than simply continuing to carry it ourselves?

5

Psalm 111 finishes, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” Why do you think a Psalm about praise ends with wisdom? How can seeing God more clearly change the way we actually live?

Psalm 111:10; 1 Corinthians 1; Psalm 112

Consider the sermon’s statement: “If God is God, then I don’t have to be.” Where might trusting God change a decision, anxiety or responsibility you are carrying?

6

The sermon suggests beginning prayer with: “Lord, I remember when…” What would you put after those words today?

The sermon’s “So what?”

As a group, share examples of God’s faithfulness and allow those memories to become prayers of thanksgiving and praise.