How do we know if our opposition is from spiritual warfare or spiritual discipline?

Outline:

I. Spiritual warfare opposes our faithfulness (Ezra 4:4-5, 24) “the people of the land discouraged the people of Judah and made them afraid to build”

II. Spiritual discipline opposes our unfaithfulness (Hag 1:9-11) “I have called for a drought”

Personal Reflection Questions:

1. Have you ever been in a rock and a hard place situation? Share.

2. Read 2 Timothy 3:12 . Why do you think persecution is a certainty for all genuine Christ followers? What are some ways Christians are being persecuted in our context today? If willing, share a personal experience.

3. Read Ephesians 6:12 . What word/phrase most captures your attention? How do you keep yourself aware of this unseen reality?

4. “Spiritual warfare means there is no easy button in Christian growth or in advancing the Kingdom, we should expect strong opposition.” How have you experienced this truth? How can remembering this truth combat our discouragement?

5. When you hear the word “discipline,” do you default to positive or negative associations? What helps you to understand that spiritual discipline is good?

6. Of the three steps to discern spiritual discipline in our life, (1) Considering a spiritual cause, (2) Asking God for understanding, and (3) Searching the Word, which are you most prone to neglect and why?

7. How have you seen your faith becoming stronger over time? What has been the greatest contributor to your growth?