Wouldn't it be great if rebuilding was done with only help from friends? But that rarely happens! You're going to face opposition and challenges. How did Nehemiah handle opposition and how can we learn from it?

CATCHING UP/LOOKING AHEAD

1. Talk about your experiences of writing a thank-you note to someone each day (or even one day) this last week.
2. When you face opposition, is your first reaction to want to engage or to want to escape?

KEY VERSE

Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm.

Ephesians 6:13 NLT

DISCOVERY QUESTIONS

1. What helps you redirect your thoughts in the face of negative talk or gossip?
2. Is there a new strategy you need to consider in order to reposition your forces as you face some kind of attack on your faith, family, or business?
3. Is there an area of discouragement you’re facing where the group could pray for you?
4. When you face distraction, what helps you regain your focus?

LIVING ON PURPOSE

God’s five purposes for each of us are evangelism, discipleship, fellow- ship, ministry, and worship. In this section, we’ll look at how we can take practical steps to fulfill one of those purposes based on the truths we’ve looked at in this study.

DISCIPLESHIP

Scripture memory has proven to be one of the keys to victory in the lives of many believers. Memorize the key verse for this week, or one of these verses that address the four strategies for winning the battle.

When you are ridiculed

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.

Romans 8:1

When you are attacked

We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; per- plexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.

2 Corinthians 4:8–9

When you are discouraged

Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

1 Peter 5:6–7

When you are distracted

I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 3:14

PRAYING TOGETHER

Share and pray for one another’s needs as you close your group meeting.