00:00 The Joy and Challenge of Christmas

00:20 When Christmas Isn't Merry

00:35 Faith in Times of Trial

01:34 The Message of Job

02:02 The Yearning of Christmas Songs

05:42 Job's Story of Suffering

09:10 Trusting God in Dark Seasons

11:13 Job's Profound Trust

12:28 Grieving with Hope

15:05 Worship in the Midst of Suffering

16:17 Job's Humble Beginnings and Endings

17:17 Acknowledging God's Sovereignty

18:57 Understanding Christian Expectations

21:20 Gratitude for God's Blessings

23:17 Trusting God's Goodness in Suffering

30:01 Yearning for Jesus and Trusting God's Plan

31:30 Conclusion and Prayer

Resolved: Courage to Confront

Text: Mark 6:14-30

I. Pursue Clarity About Jesus’ Identity

II. Live According to Conviction—Not Convenience

III. Courageously Confront Evil

Application Questions

1. Read Mark 6:14–15 and John 1:29–30. What do people in your circles say about Jesus today? Are their views more influenced by cultural assumptions or Scripture? How does a deeper clarity about Christ change the way you live, speak, and serve?
2. Which biblical truths are you most convinced of, to the point you would suffer for them? How are those convictions shaping your everyday decisions at home, work, or church this month?
3. Read Mark 6:18 and Ephesians 4:15. John called out Herod’s sin directly and biblically. When you see evil celebrated around you, what’s your typical response? What would it look like to grow in convictional courage without becoming combative?
4. Herodias wanted John killed, but Herod was drawn to him (Mark 6:20). When non-believers hear you speak truth, do they hear courage with humility, or self-righteousness? What kind of tone and life do you want your gospel witness to reflect?
5. Read Luke 12:4–5. Where are you tempted to shrink back from confrontation because of fear? How would fear of God realign your response?

Resolve to love God so much that you hate sexual sin.

Genesis 39:7-12

I. Expect Temptation’s Targeted Attacks (v.7)

II. Enumerate the Reasons Why Sin is Very Stupid (vv.8-9)

III. Draw the Battle Lines Far From Temptation—Not on the Edge (vv.10-12)

Application Questions

1. Consider some of the prominent former pastors who have given in to sexual sin. What lessons can you glean from these public failures?
2. Read Genesis 39:9 and 1 Corinthians 6:18-7:1-5. While it is true that "all sin is sin," what makes sexual immorality uniquely grievous to the Lord?
3. Read Genesis 39:8-9 and Psalm 103:2. Start working on your own personal list: What are the reasons that giving in to sexual sin would be particularly stupid and destructive in your life? How might regularly revisiting a list like this, inspired by Psalm 103:2, fortify your love for God over sin?
4. Read Genesis 39:10 and Matthew 5:29-30. Joseph drew his battle lines far from temptation by refusing even to "be with her" day after day. In your daily routines, where might you be "dancing on the brink" of sin, such as through media, relationships, or environments? What practical steps can you take to ruthlessly eliminate gateways to temptation and pray daily against it (Matthew 6:13)?