Character 19 Nov 17

(Message 3) David was weary of running from Saul. In his difficulty, he expected to find an ally in Nabal. When Nabal mistreated David and his men, this angered David and he was intent on killing Nabal. But a wise woman made an intervention that changed the course of David’s story.

HALT:

Hungry
Angry
Lonely
Tired

Two questions:

What story will you tell when your past is nothing but a story you tell?
Get some help writing your story.

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Read 1 Samuel 25:14-42. To which character in this story do you most relate? Why?
David’s character was hunted and hurting. List some reasons why David was hurting?
Hurt people, hurt people. Are you hurting? If not, can you remember a time when you were hurting? How do you respond to others when you are hurting?
Do you ever find yourself being upset with someone and then taking it out on someone else? For instance, you have a bad day at work. Who do you take that out on, if anyone? Can you share other examples?
Discuss the “HALT” tool described in the message. Before engaging in any self-destructive behavior . . . ask yourself:
- Are you hungry?
  - When did you last eat?
  - Is your hunger emotional or does your body need food?
  - If your body is asking for food, find something nutritious to snack on.
- Are you angry?
  - What are you dealing with right now that is stressful?
  - Is the stress what’s making you angry?
  - Find out why you are angry and find ways to diffuse that anger.
- Are you lonely?
  - When is the last time you socialized?
  - Was it a positive or negative experience?
  - Reach out for support. Let them help you.
- Are you tired?
  - Have you been getting enough rest and giving your body the breaks it needs?
  - How can you energize yourself?
  - Take some time to yourself and relax.
Do you currently have a relationship in your life in which you are tempted to or have thoughts of repaying evil with evil? In the future, what story do you want to tell about this period of your life when it’s just a “story” to tell? Read and discuss Romans 12:17-20.
Have you ever attended CR Friday nights at Generations Church? Every adult is invited to attend and there’s free childcare for children age 6 months – 12 years old. It would be a great experience for your whole small group. You are all invited! You’ll find more info on our website: generationschurch.com/ministries/groups/celebrate-recovery/