Lifegroup Discussion Guide

God Always Has a Better Plan

Ps John Lindell

Scripture

2 Chronicles 7:8-11:

“Now then, tell my servant David, ‘This is what the Lord Almighty says: I took you from the pasture, from tending the flock, and appointed you ruler over my people Israel. I have been with you wherever you have gone, and I have cut off all your enemies from before you. Now I will make your name great, like the names of the greatest men on earth. And I will provide a place for my people Israel and will plant them so that they can have a home of their own and no longer be disturbed. Wicked people will not oppress them anymore, as they did at the beginning and have done ever since the time I appointed leaders over my people Israel. I will also give you rest from all your enemies.

Main Idea

God always has a better plan. Sometimes He will say “yes” and sometimes He will say “no.” But when He says “no,” that “no” includes a “yes” to something better. Our role is to respond properly to His leading, even when we don’t understand, and to choose to praise Him in every situation.

1. David’s Great Idea That Wasn’t a God Idea

We need people around us who can pray with us and help us discern the Lord’s will.

Why is having godly people around you so critical to discerning the will of God? Is there a difference between good advice and godly wisdom? Explain.

2. God’s “No” That Included a Big “Yes”

When God says ‘no,’ there is always a ‘yes.’ When He closes one door, He opens another!

Tell of a time you felt God close the door to one opportunity but open the door to another. What did you learn from that experience?

3. David’s Lack of Pride That Led to Praise

When you praise God, you are giving Him glory and defeating the enemy.

In what way does praising God help to subdue our pride? Why do you think praise is such a powerful spiritual weapon?

Call To Action

Reflect:

God always has a better plan. When He says “no,” it’s never rejection—it’s redirection.

Respond:

What is one practical way this week you can respond to God’s leading—even when it doesn’t make sense?

Remember:

Every time we praise, God’s presence goes with us, and His “yes” always leads us into greater blessing and victory.

Care Form

If someone in your group needs care,

We want to be there for them. The James River Care team is designed to walk alongside people in every season – to celebrate life’s best moment and offer support through the challenging ones. We want to be there for the following life events:

Marriage
Births
Hospitalization and deaths
Questions or concerns.

 Please submit a request at: jamesriver.church/care-form

Additional Leader Resources

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