March 30 2025
The heart of a Rust City Group is to care for people and carry the culture of Rust City Church.
You don’t have to follow this guide like a script! Use discernment from the Holy Spirit as you lead your group discussion.
If you notice that someone in your group needs additional care or support that’s beyond your capacity, please let a pastor know.
ICEBREAKER QUESTION OPTION:
If you had to eat only one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
HE Promises: Part 3
SPEAKER: PASTOR DOUG GARASIC
Scriptures—
Matthew 28:19-20, Mark 4:35-41
Key Takeaways—
Jesus promises to be with His followers always, even when we don't feel His presence
God sometimes leads us into storms to disciple us, not to discipline us
Storms in our lives are temporary, but Jesus and His promises are eternal
We should hold onto Jesus during storms, not abandon our faith
God is stronger than any storm we face in life
Isolation makes us vulnerable to spiritual attacks
Sometimes worship comes from a place of pain and struggle
Discussion Questions—
How does the image of Jesus sleeping on a cushion during the storm challenge or comfort your understanding of God's presence in difficult times?
How do you reconcile Jesus' promise to always be with us with times when you feel alone or abandoned in your struggles?
In what ways might God be using the storms in your life to disciple you rather than simply discipline you?
How can we cultivate a faith that is strong enough to withstand storms, rather than seeking only 'fair weather' Christianity?
How can we balance the desire for comfort with the reality that following Jesus often leads us into uncomfortable situations?
In what areas of your life do you need to trust Jesus to 'get to the other side' of a difficult situation?
What are some practical ways we can avoid becoming isolated from our Christian community during times of struggle?
How can we develop a more raw and authentic form of worship, like Pastor Doug's 'bloody knuckles' moment, in our relationship with God?
In what ways can we be more intentional about 'making disciples' in our daily lives, as Jesus commands in the Great Commission?
Practical application—
Take the Easter invite cards and prayerfully consider who you can invite to church this Easter season.
Closing Prayer—
Father, thank You for Your promise that You will never abandon us. We ask for strength to trust You, especially in difficult times. Help us to rely on Your presence and guidance. Give us opportunities to share Your love with others and be a light in their lives. In Jesus' name, Amen.
