The Trouble I’ve Seen
July 13, 2025
We learn and grow through the struggles and trials we endure. Consider a child learning to walk or ride a bike. The bumps and bruises of learning are a necessary part of the process. What is true for learning to walk is also true for learning to follow Jesus. What if every pain you've ever faced was simply evidence of something new God was trying to create in you? Join us for Track 4 of The Summer Psalms Mixtape, where we will explore Psalm 69 to see how Jesus' suffering is a model for our own.
Passage
Psalm 69
The ##Reality## of Suffering
Two sources of suffering:
- Suffering we ##bring## ##on## ##ourselves##.
- Suffering that is ##inflicted## ##on## ##us##.
Our ##Response## to Suffering
We Cry for Vengeance ( ##Justice## )
We Cry for Help ( ##Prayer## )
The ##Redemption## of Suffering
Small Group Questions
Practicing the Way 07
Use this outline for personal reflection, as a couples or family devotion, or with a small group.
HANGOUT
Be with Jesus. Become like Jesus. Live as Jesus lived. A Rule of Life is a schedule, a set of practices, and relational rhythms that create space for us to follow Jesus… to apprentice with Him truly. A Rule of Life is an intentional plan to slow down and simplify your life, centered on being formed by Jesus. It's an ancient practice that remains relevant to us today. Do you have a Rule of Life (or Sacred Rhythm)? If so, how did you develop it, and what has it done for your relationship with Jesus?
HEAR
Read John 15:5-8; Romans 12:1-2; I Corinthians 4:17
- What is the composition of your current Rule of Life?
- As you reflect on the habits and rhythms in your Rule of Life's design, how would you describe the spiritual formation needs for your personality and current life stage?
- What practices would you like to include in your Rule of Life?
- Who would be important to walk with you during the process of building your Rule of Life?
HUDDLE
As you consider creating a Rule of Life, what are some deep desires that emerge within you? What changes could lead to a more abundant life in Christ? Historically, a Rule of Life has been practiced within a community. Who will walk with you toward heaven? Discuss it, invite accountability, and pray together.
Daily Reading
As you read each passage, invite the Holy Spirit to be your teacher as you seek Him with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.
- Day 1: Psalm 41-45
- Day 2: Psalm 46-50
- Day 3: Psalm 51-55
- Day 4: Psalm 56-60
- Day 5: Psalm 61-65
- Day 6: Psalm 66-68
- Day 7: Psalm 69
Passage to Memorize: Psalm 69:6
Think Deeper
- Describe a time when you cried out to God because of injustice or suffering.
- Did God respond to your cry for help? If so, how and when?
- What has resulted from that season of suffering in your life?
Suggested Resources
Reflections on the Psalms, by C. S. Lewis
The Songs of Jesus, by Tim Keller
Psalms (Kinder Classic Commentaries), by Derek Kinder
One Year Bible Book of Psalms, by William Petersen and Randy Petersen
Check out these and other books from our suggested reading list at https://bit.ly/AspireSMB.