God’s Story: Learning to Walk With the Shepherd

You may find yourself in a season where life feels harder than expected. Following Jesus doesn't eliminate obstacles; it changes how we walk through them.

REVIEW: The Shepherd Is With You.

READ: Psalm 23:4
“Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me."

DISCUSS: When life feels uncertain or overwhelming, what tends to make you feel alone or afraid, and what helps you remember that God has not left you?

REVIEW: The Shepherd Is Forming You.

READ: Romans 5:3–4
“We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation.”

DISCUSS: Think about a difficult experience that has shaped you. What did it reveal about your character, your faith, or the areas where you still need to grow?

REVIEW: The Shepherd Is Leading You.

READ: Philippians 3:13–14
“No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.”

DISCUSS: What is something you may need to stop carrying from your past so you can be more available to what God may be asking you to pursue next?

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ASK

What from this lesson challenged you, encouraged you, or changed the way you think about difficult seasons?

PRAY

Jesus, thank You for being our Shepherd and staying with us through every valley. Help us see You, trust You, and follow You when life is hard. Show us what You are forming in us and give us courage to take the next faithful step. Remind us that You are always with us and leading us forward. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

INVITATION TO RESPOND

Following Jesus doesn't mean the path will always be easy, but the Shepherd is with you. As you move through this season of your life, here are a few steps to help you keep walking with Him:

• Be Present: Pause throughout your day and remind yourself, “Jesus, You are with me here.” Look for His presence, even in ordinary moments and difficult circumstances.
• Notice Growth: Ask, “Jesus, what are You developing in me through this?” Pay attention to opportunities to practice patience, trust, courage, compassion, or faith.
• Let Go: Give God your fear, resentment, and need for control. When you feel overwhelmed, pray, “Jesus, I give this to You. Help me trust You with what I cannot control.”
• Move Forward: Ask, “Jesus, what does faithfulness look like for me today?” Then take the next right step, even if you cannot see what comes next.
• Keep Going: Don't stop because you don't see the whole path. Continue taking the next faithful step, trusting that God is leading you.

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You're not alone, it's not wasted, and this isn't the end—the Shepherd is with you, forming you, and leading you.