Enjoying the Presence of God, Chapters 16, 17, 18

Chapter 16: Addressing Deeper Fears About God
1. How have you overcome the reluctance to once again come to God with the ‘same sin’?
2. “This fear (that God isn’t good or fair) affects everything around us – our ability to get along with others, our sense of worth, our capacity to serve, our desire to talk to God.” (p. 111). Comments?
3. “Trying to understand God is a futile goal. Trying to control Him guarantees frustration.” (p. 111). What is your reaction to this quote?
4. In what ways does the author say we do not understand God’s goodness, anger, or mercy? (p. 112-114).
5. What does the author say on page 115 regarding how negative self-talk begins and the steps to overcome it?
6. Do the Questions to Ponder on pages 116-117.

Chapter 17: Believing God Loves Me
7. Have you wondered if God is compassionate enough to ‘put up with you’ or that he might ‘force you to go to Mongolia’? Where do these thoughts come from and how do you refute them? (p. 119).
8. “If you find yourself reluctant to enjoy God’s presence in certain moments of life, that might be a signal that you have fears about whether God loves you.” Does this resonate with your experience?
9. What are some ways God has used in your life to help you understand his love? When do you feel most loved by God?
10. “Believing God loves us equips us with a clear eyed acceptance of who we are.” Read the rest of this paragraph on page 121. Reaction?
11. How does totally accepting God’s love give you freedom?

Chapter 18: Revamping the “Quiet Time”
12. The author describes Duckworth’s facedown position of seeking God. Have you taken this or a similar position? Thoughts?
13. How is quiet time like batting practice (p. 126). Is there another simile comparison that fits your experience?
14. How do times of solitude with God change one? (p. 127). Have you experienced this? How can you create times of solitude in your life?
15. “Anytime we sense an anxious emptiness inside, this becomes a signal to spend time with God. . .” (p. 128). Comments?
16. Are there ways you currently worship God in your solitude with Him? Do you have favorite Psalms or passages that are pictures in your mind?
17. Do Questions to Ponder on page 131.
Epilogue: Read through and note significant points
Personal Challenge/Group Challenge