Preparing the Way - Garden of Gethsemene | Michelle Stevens

Scripture Reading

Mark 14:32-42

Questions

1. Avoiding Pain vs. Facing It with God
   The sermon talks about how we often try to avoid or numb pain. How do you typically respond to pain or difficulty in your life? What might it look like for you to face pain with God instead of avoiding it?

2. God Understands Our Pain
   Jesus experienced deep emotional and physical anguish in the garden. How does it impact your view of God to know that He understands your suffering on such a personal level?

3. Sleeping Disciples vs. Praying Jesus
   The disciples fell asleep during a time of great need, while Jesus turned to intense prayer. In seasons of pain or pressure, are you more likely to "sleep" (ignore, avoid, numb) or pray? Why do you think that is? How could you choose to grow more in prayer?

4. When God Doesn’t Remove the Cup
   Jesus asked for the cup to be taken from Him, but it wasn’t. Have you ever prayed for something that didn’t happen the way you hoped? How do you continue to trust and surrender to God when His answer is different from your desire?

5. Learning in the Pain
   The sermon mentions “lingering in the discomfort” and how pain can grow our dependence on God. What’s something you’ve learned about God—or yourself—through a difficult season?

6. Courageous Surrender
   What would it look like in your life right now to courageously surrender to God’s will and strength? Is there an area where you’re being invited to trust Him more fully?