"Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy: Discovering the Grace of Lament" *

*our new teaching series inspired by and adapted from Mark Vroegop's book of the same title.

Resources for Further Study

• BOOK: Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy by Mark Vroegop - buy on Amazon
• BOOK: Thinking Right When Things Go Wrong by John Hutchison - Amazon
• BIBLE READING PLAN: If you use the YouVersion Bible app by Life.Church, you might want to look for the "Learning to Lament" 5-day devotional.
• PODCAST: The Gospel Coalition podcast episode #77 entitled "Discover the Grace of Lament" is a one-hour talk featuring the author, Mark Vroegop.
• VIDEO: Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy author speaking at EFCA Theology Conference - "The Psalms & Christian Lament"

Week #1 Reflection Questions (adapted from the book listed above)

1. In your own words, what makes lament Christian? Why does it take faith to lament?
2. Describe a time when you found it difficult to pray because you were suffering. What were the circumstances or the reasons for your silence?
3. What are some of the hard and painful questions that you've asked God over the years?
4. As you think back on God's faithfulness, where has he proven himself to be trustworthy?
5. What portions of scripture do you use to Anchor your soul to who God is?
6. How is lament connected to your theology?
7. How does the cross become the ultimate anchor and resolution for our suffering and pain?
8. Take a few minutes and talk to God about whatever is in your soul as you consider the topic of lament. Tell him your pain, share your questions, from your trust, and ask him to keep you trusting.