Cycles of positive and negative experiences define our journey through life. To make progress, we need to learn how to keep moving forward and remain faithful whether we’re on top of the world or it feels like the world is on top of us. Psalm 40 reminds us how to feel gratitude in the middle of grief and cultivate qualities that result in faithfulness and progress in every situation. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: 1. Read Psalm 40. Notice how David reflected on rescue he experienced at the beginning of this song but returned to trouble and need for God’s help again in verses 11-17. When you absorb David’s descriptions, requests, and emotions—are there any experiences in your life reflected in these words? 2. What does David do and what does God do in verses 1-10? How would you characterize the relationship between Davids’ actions and God’s actions? 3. From verses 11-17, how does David describe himself and his condition? What does David ask God to do? 4. What did you hear this weekend that inspired you, challenged you, or sparked disagreement or further consideration? 5. Think of someone whose life you admire (biblical, character, biography, personal relationship). How did you observe them entering and exiting the “pits” of life? What are some qualities that enabled them to continue moving forward or living faithfully? 6. Of the qualities describe in this song that help us remain faithful in any situation, which one or two would you like to develop? What action could you take to move in that direction?