Overview
As a child cries out to a parent when in pain or need, so we turn to our heavenly Father when suffering invades our lives. That turning to God, says Tim Stafford, is strong evidence that we belong to God. More than measured fruitfulness or other self-administered tests of faith, the longing cry of our spirit to our Father, Abba, marks us as children of God.
Table of Contents
SCRIPTURE: Psalm 50:15; Proverbs 18:10; Nahum 1:7; Matthew 26:14–16; Matthew 26:50–56; Matthew 26:69–75; Matthew 27:1–5; Mark 14:32–36; Luke 24:33–36; John 10:11–18, 25–30; John 21:15–19; Romans 8:9–17; Galatians 4:1–7
LEADER'S GUIDE
• The Issue
Sample questions:
What is your normal reaction to God during times of suffering or need?
Can you recall a time when a crisis caused you to turn away from God for a time? Why?
• The Scriptures
Sample Scriptures:
Romans 8:9–17: According to Paul, what does crying Abba say about us?
What role does the Holy Spirit play in our desire to turn to God as our heavenly Father when we hurt? (See Romans 8:14–16 and Galatians 4:6).
• The Application
Sample application questions:
How can we avoid coming to God with an attitude of bargaining or demanding his help?
What do you think is the basic difference between a Christian turning to God for help and a nonbeliever who cries out to God in an emergency?
• Recommended Resources
ARTICLE FROM CHRISTIANITY TODAY
• A God Named Abba, by Tim Stafford (May 1989, 7 printed pages)
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