Begin group time with 2 minutes of silent prayer. Assume a comfortable position and repeat the phrase “Come Holy Spirit” to yourself as you breathe. If your mind wanders, that's okay—simply notice it, repeat the phrase, and return your focus. After the silence, invite someone from the group to close in prayer.

READ OUT LOUD AS A GROUP: Matthew 1:22-23; Isaiah 7:1-14; Isaiah 37:10-20

DISCUSS: “The season in which we sing and talk about peace the most is when we experience it the least.”

• What are you most looking forward to this holiday season? What are you looking forward to the least?
• How can you intentionally pursue peace ruling in your heart during this busy season?
• What do you do when your heart is shaken? Where do you go when you’re not okay?

Q1 - It can feel impossible to engage when you feel like your heart is shaken. Have you experienced this “shaken heart” that Miles talked about?

Q2 - It is tempting to ask for a sign from God even when we have the Holy Spirit. When was the last time you thought you needed a sign from God and how did he meet you in that? How did you know it was God?

Q3 - Short-term peace feels good for a while, but future generations may deal with what we avoid addressing. Where do you tend to run when you’re not okay?

• Name out loud some of the idols you turn to for temporary peace.
• Reflect on your family of origin. What patterns, both good and challenging, do you see in them that have been passed down to you?

Q4 - Hezekiah took his prayer to the temple—the secret place—but because of the Holy Spirit, we now have access to God anywhere, transforming ordinary spaces into holy ground. How has your perspective on the "secret place" shifted, knowing it can be any moment or space in your daily routine? Where in your life can you begin to intentionally create a sacred space, making even the mundane a place of deep communion with God?

CHALLENGE:

ONE HOUR WITH GOD.
Find time in your schedule this week to schedule one hour with God for genuine real prayer and true worship with your father in the secret place. Try to make it your “best” hour of the day as far as focus and alertness, it may mean changing some things in your schedule around. Maybe try some of the suggestions Miles recommended. It doesn’t have to be perfect, just honest and true. Take note of your experience.

RESOURCES:

A Long Obedience in the Same Direction by Eugene Peterson Hidden Christmas by Time Keller

‍