Discussion Questions

• Can you name a time when God’s plan did not make sense in the moment, but later you could see his goodness?
• Mary said yes to God, knowing it would cost her. Where has God called you in the past, or where is he calling you now, to an obedience that may come with a cost?
• What would it look like, practically, to say, “Let it be to me according to your word,” in a specific area of your life this week?

This Advent, we turn from David, the shepherd-king who stumbled, to Jesus, the Shepherd-King who stood faithful. We look at Mary, Zechariah, and Simeon, and their responses of faith, trust, and joy. Through the songs and announcements in Luke’s Gospel, we see how God fulfills his promises to David by sending his Son, the true King. In him we find hope, peace, joy, and love.

Discussion Questions:

• Based on our study of David’s life so far, how would you explain what it means to be “After God’s Heart?”
• What does this passage show you about God’s grace? Does his grace move you as it did David (2 Sam 7:18-22)? Why or why not?
• Do you ever feel like a failure because you’re not “doing enough for God?” How does this passage speak to this fear?
• Create a list of all the promises that God has made to you through Christ in the New Covenant. Which ones encourage your heart the most today?

Discussion Questions

• What part of this story surprised or challenged you the most, and why?
• What helps you move toward God again after a moment of fear, failure, or conviction?
• David danced before the Lord with freedom, while Michal stayed trapped in dignity and resentment. Which one do you resonate with more, and why?