In Unseen Spaces pt 1 - Discussion Guide

Summary: Today we kick off a new series, In Unseen Spaces, focusing on how God meets us in hidden or quiet moments—places where life slows down unexpectedly, like Jesus' time in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11). In this space, Jesus faces three tests, all of which revolve around identity, anxiety, and control. These trials reveal something deeper, showing us that wilderness moments aren't meant to be avoided but embraced, as they shape us and invite us to live at the pace of God's love.

Discussion Questions:

1. Wilderness Moments:

   • Think about a time in your life when things slowed down unexpectedly, and you found yourself in a "wilderness" moment. How did it make you feel?

   • In those moments, how did you experience God (or how did you wish you had)?

2. Identity and Circumstances:

   • In the first test, Jesus’ identity is questioned: “If you are the Son of God, turn these stones to bread.” How do you see this test relating to the ways your identity might be challenged in difficult circumstances?

   • How do you tend to respond when your sense of identity feels unstable? Do you try to fix things, or is there a different approach you might take?

3. Anxiety and Control:

   • The second test pushes Jesus to perform an act to “prove” who he is. How does anxiety sometimes push you to act or react hastily in life?

   • Can you think of a moment when you were tempted to take control of a situation rather than trusting God’s timing? How did it turn out?

4. The Invitation of Jesus:

   • Jesus ends each test with a clear choice: trusting God’s words and ways over quick fixes or shortcuts. What does it look like for you to trust God in your current season?

   • How might moving at “the pace of love” (slow, intentional, and unhurried) change the way you approach your daily life?

Closing Prayer: "Lord, thank You for walking with us through every wilderness moment. Help us to trust in Your timing and to let go of the need to control. As we wrestle with questions of identity, anxiety, and power, remind us that You meet us in quiet places, forming us in love. Guide us to move at Your pace, trusting in Your presence along the way. Amen."