When You've Failed.

Introduction:

We Have 3 Options When We Fail: (Judges 16:23-31):

1. Live in Defeat .
2. Live in Denial .
3. Live in Discipline .

The Process of Restoration:

1. God brings Discipline (Not punishment).
2. Discipline brings Heart-change.
3. Heart-change brings deeper Commitment.

   Psalm 119:67 - Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I keep your word.

4. Deeper Commitment brings new Opportunities.

Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANK
Hint: Highlight blanks above for answers!

Small Group Discussion
Read Judges 16:23-31

1. What was your big “take-away” from this passage / message?
   

2. Explain the difference between regret, remorse, and repentance. Why does God call you to repentance instead of just calling you to regret or remorse?
   

3. Why do you think some Christians choose to wallow in shame instead of move on in God’s path to restoration?
   

4. If we are forgiven in Christ, why is restoration often a long and hard process? Why doesn’t God just “wipe the slate clean”?
   

5. Explain punishment vs discipline:
   - Why is the believer in Christ not “punished”?
   - What is the endgame of discipline?

Breakout
Pray for one another - to handle failure God’s way.