August 23, 2026
Assigned Scripture
Hebrews 12:1-3
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. 2 We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith.[a] Because of the joy[b] awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne. 3 Think of all the hostility he endured from sinful people;[c] then you won’t become weary and give up.
1 Peter 5:6-11
6 So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor. 7 Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.
8 Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. 9 Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith. Remember that your family of believers[a] all over the world is going through the same kind of suffering you are.
10 In his kindness God called you to share in his eternal glory by means of Christ Jesus. So after you have suffered a little while, he will restore, support, and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation. 11 All power to him forever! Amen.
Group Response
Most of us hate to be bored and we go to great lengths to avoid it. But there are two kinds of boredom: the holy and the unholy, and one of them is good for you. Have you ever wondered what God might be up to in those seasons when nothing is happening, and how those seasons are crucial for building the muscle that will carry you into your better years?
Discussion Questions
1. Have you ever been in a season of boredom? What were the symptoms?
2.The Preacher of Hebrews says to “lay aside every entanglement and every sin. What “entanglements” or “sins” do people get into when they’re bored?
3. Reflecting on that season of boredom in your life, are you able to see what God was doing? How would you describe that work?
4. Think of that season again. Which of the 5 words resonates most with you? Slow? Hard? Hidden? Repetitive? Unclear? Why does that word mean so much to you?
5. What do you think God is saying to you after today? What would it mean to follow that Word?