Checking In:

1.)   Take this time to check in with everyone in your life group. How is their walk with the Lord currently going?

Ice Breaker for the study:

2.)   Growing up, were you the bully, or the one bullied? Explain.

Digging Deeper: Read 1 Samuel 4:1-7:17

3.)   How did the Israelites initially respond to their defeat by the Philistines (1 Samuel 4:1-3)? What does this reveal about their understanding of God's presence and power?

4.)   What was the result of the Israelites' actions in bringing the Ark into battle (1 Samuel 4:10-11)? How does this demonstrate the consequences of disobedience and misplaced trust in God?

5.)   How did Eli respond to the news of the Ark's capture and the death of his sons (1 Samuel 4:18)? What does this reveal about his spiritual state?

6.)   How did the Philistines initially react to capturing the Ark of the Covenant (1 Samuel 5:1-2)? How did their actions after capturing the Ark demonstrate their understanding of God?

7.)   What role did Samuel play in leading the Israelites back to God (1 Samuel 7:3-17)? What did Samuel call the people to do (1 Samuel 7:3)? 

Application:

8.)   What is the difference between trusting in God and trusting in religious practices or symbols (1 Samuel 4:3, 7:1-17)?

9.)   What are the "foreign gods" or idols that can compete for our affection today?

10.)In what ways can we apply the lessons of 1 Samuel 4-7 to our lives today? How can we better cultivate a relationship with God and avoid misplaced trust?

11.) How can we experience God's presence and blessing today?