Week of December 29, 2024 – For Auld Lanxiety

December 29, 2024

Description:

As we step into the new year, we take a look at the story of Ehud, an unlikely hero whom God used to deliver Israel from oppression, reminding us of his power to bring victory through unexpected means. Ehud’s story encourages us to trust God’s plan, embrace our unique gifts, and boldly confront challenges, knowing that he equips us for every battle. Let Ehud’s faith and courage inspire a renewed confidence in God’s purpose for the year ahead.

Dig In Questions

Small Group Study Guide

Ice Breaker Questions

Who is someone in your life that you’ve seen step up as a leader in an unexpected way?
Have you ever faced a situation where you had to act courageously and rely on your unique skills? How did it turn out?
Why do you think God often uses unexpected people or methods to accomplish his purposes?

Scripture Passages

Judges 3:12-30 – The Story of Ehud

Isaiah 53:2-3 – A prophetic description of Jesus and how he would bear the sins of humanity.

1 Corinthians 1:27-31 – Description of God works in ways that defy human expectations

Discussion Questions

Why may God have chosen a left-handed man, Ehud, to carry out his plan against Eglon? How does this detail add to the story?

How does Ehud’s approach to defeating Eglon show both Faith and strategy? How does this teach us about how God works through people?

Ehud’s left-handedness was considered a limitation, but God used it to accomplish his purposes. Have you experienced a time when God used something unexpected or unconventional in your life?

What does this story teach us about God’s faithfulness, even when his people repeatedly turn away from him?

How does Ehud’s story encourage us to trust God’s plan, even when it doesn’t make sense?

Action Steps

Recognize and repent of sin: Reflect on the areas where you may have drifted away from God or allowed harmful patterns to take route. Confess these to God and ask for his help to turn back to him, just as the Israelites cried out for deliverance.

Trust God to use your uniqueness: Identify qualities, skills, or circumstances that may seem insignificant or limiting. Ask God to show you how he can use these for His glory, just as he used Ehud’s left-handedness.

Take bold steps of faith: Consider areas where God calls you to take action, even if it feels risky or unconventional. Then commit to stepping out in obedience and trust in God to equip you just like he did with Ehud.

Seek God’s guidance and strategy: Spend prayer asking for wisdom to face challenges or opportunities. Be open to creative solutions or unexpected methods that align with God’s plan.

Prayer:

God, thank you for the reminder that you use unlikely people and unexpected means to accomplish your purposes. As we reflect on this lesson, help us to trust in our power, even when we feel inadequate or unworthy. Strengthen our faith to step out in boldness and obedience, knowing that you equip those you call.