The Struggle is Real
"The Struggle is Real"
Big Idea: Not every hardship is the same. Wisdom is learning what time you’re in — and how God is using it. Points: 1. Storms reveal your foundation (Matt. 7:24–27) 2. Setbacks redirect your path (Gen. 50:20) 3. Seasons form your character (Deut. 8:2; Gal. 6:9) Key Lines: • Storms test you, but don’t label you • Setbacks are often protection • Don’t rush seasons — grow through them
Sermon Description
Life gets hard… and not all hard seasons are the same.
In this message, we talk about storms, setbacks, and seasons — and how God uses each one differently to shape us, grow us, and anchor us in hope. Whether you’re new to church or have been around faith for a while, this message meets you right where you are.
Scriptures: Ecclesiastes 3:1–8; James 1:2–4; Romans 8:28; Matthew 7:24–27; Genesis 50:20; Deuteronomy 8:2; Galatians 6:9
Small Group Discussion Questions
What’s the difference between a storm, setback, and season?
Which one do you tend to mislabel the most?
Why is mislabeling struggle so damaging?
How have you seen God use difficulty to shape you?
What does anchoring look like in your daily life?
References: Ecclesiastes 3:1–8; Matthew 7:24–27; Genesis 50:20; Deuteronomy 8:2; Galatians 6:9
2 Deep Journal Questions
What season am I in — and what might God be forming in me right now?
Where do I need to stop resisting and start trusting?