Taking it Deeper:

Spend some time in Matthew 15:21-28; Luke 18:1-8; Colossians 1:3-6; Micah 7:7

Ice Breaker: 

What is your favorite story of persistence, either in real life or in fiction? OR tell about a time when someone’s persistence swayed your opinion or actions. 

Discussion Questions for Small Groups

or Individual Study

1. Read Matthew 15:21-28. List characteristics of the Canaanite woman. What did she lack? What did she have in abundance? How did her persistence lead to a miracle? What is the relationship between hope and persistence? 
2. Read Luke 1:1-5. How is the widow described? How is the judge described? Why does he agree to serve justice on her behalf? Read Luke 1:6-8. What is God’s response to those “who cry out to him day and night” (v. 7 NIV) What key word do you notice that describes God’s response? Why does it matter?
3. Contrast Willpower (your persistent faith, patience, and trust) with Waypower (God’s provision, timing, miracle-making). What happens to your willpower when you are content with the crumbs? How does a good Father give to his children? 
4. Read Colossians 1:3-6. Where is hope stored? What does it tell you about hope to know where it is stored? What happens to you when your heart aligns with the will of heaven? 
5. Read Micah 7:7. How should you watch for the Lord? Who do you wait for? What promise do you have as one who watches in hope and waits?