Storytellers (James Wilkes)
This week in Storytellers, Jessica sat down with Rev. Rickiah Wingfield from Elon First Baptist to discuss the remarkable passage from 2 Kings that Rev. Dr. James Wilkes preached about on Sunday.
Icebreaker: How do you typically respond in crisis—do you retreat, panic, pray, or press forward (or some combination)?
If you haven’t yet, take some time to read this remarkable passage found in 2 Kings 4:8-37.
Can you share a situation where you had to act in faith without explaining everything to others? What were the circumstances? How did it feel?
What does this story teach us about seeking God (or godly counsel) in times of deep need?
Discuss the following questions with your group or take some time this week to reflect on your own or with a trusted friend:
Is there something in your life that’s dying—or already dead—that you haven’t brought to God yet? Are you waiting for the “right time”? What if now is the right time?
In his sermon, Rev. Wilkes discussed some ways to handle tough situations, based on the story of the Shunammite woman and Elisha:
Don’t freak out.
Recognize that your faith needed a resurrection.
Declare it will be well (regardless of the outcome).
Discuss these with your group. Which resonate with you? Which ones challenge you?
The Shunammite woman is a powerful example of those who bring their lament and protest to God’s attention, living out the bold hope that God hears the brokenhearted and acts in mercy and power. What area(s) of your life can you follow her example and do the same? Where can you have the faith to expect a miracle?
(*Video available after Sunday services)
