Rarely is the path to peace clearly lit. It’s not always easy to see a way through conflict, injustice, and violence without creating more suffering in return. Yet, Proverbs provides us with a light to make wise choices which can lead us to an inner sweetness and a more beautiful world. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. What from the sermon stood out as significant to you? For example, was there something that inspired you, challenged you, stuck with you, or sparked disagreement? 2. When you think about the word “peace,” what comes to mind? Can you describe a time when you felt at peace? Where were you? What was happening that caused you to be at peace? What other feelings did you experience? 3. Read Matthew 5:38-39. How do you see the prevailing response to violence of Jesus’ day, “an eye for an eye,” persist today? What is your reaction to the alternative Jesus gives his audience? 4. Proverbs 12:20 says those who practice peace have joy. Think about your daily encounters with your family, your coworkers, and the strangers you cross paths with as you run errands. In pursuit of joy, what does it look like for you to practice peace as you go through your day? 5. Reread Proverbs 1:10-19. Solomon instructs his son about whom to avoid, but how would you rewrite this passage to instruct him on who to gravitate to instead? What examples would you give to describe groups that work together for peace instead of violence?