Sooner or later we all wonder, “How could this happen to me—from where has this unexpected problem or pain come?” These questions echo throughout each page of Job’s story. Responding to these questions can lead us onto dangerous ground, but it’s a necessary part of life. This weekend we begin exploring the causes or sources for the problems and pain in our lives and world. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. According to the argument in Job chapter 4 (especially verses 7-17, why do people experience pain and problems? 2. Read Psalm 73 and compare the reasoning in Psalm 73:1-4 with the reasoning in Job 4:7-17. What differences do you notice? Do you tend to identify more with one set of arguments than the other? Why? 3. What did you hear this weekend that inspired you, challenged you, or sparked disagreement or further consideration? 4. At different times in your life how have pain and problems either strengthened or weakened your faith in God? What do you think makes the difference to pull you in one direction or another (toward faith or away from faith)? 5. How could we balance a general principle of “reaping what you sow” with the reality that sometimes people experience pain and problems through no fault of their own while others receive benefits they didn’t deserve? 6. Job’s friends were “miserable comforters.” How can we be present to help someone who is hurting without making things worse? Is there someone in your life you could reach out to encourage right now or simply be present for them? If you need to ask for help, who will you talk with about your pain or problems this week?