10-02-22 Triggered: Used

Be ready with a printed copy of the Wheel of Emotions to hand out to your group or have them download it themselves.

ICEBREAKER
What's the farthest you've ever walked or run? Was it for fun or did you have to do it?

We’re discussing a new teaching series from Pastor Jim called Triggered and during this series, we’ll be exploring various emotions that are easily triggered in us, how they can lead to sin, the commands Jesus gives us about those emotions, and how to manage them. This week we're looking at the emotions that are triggered when we feel like someone is using us for their gain.

REVIEW & DISCUSS

1. Read or Review Matthew 5:38-42.
2. What do you know or remember from Jim's message about the meaning behind "If someone forces you to go one mile"?
3. How would you feel if you were forced by the soldier of an oppressive empire to carry their equipment for a mile?

TAKEAWAY

1. What examples can you think of where you feel used by someone else or maybe even forced to do something you don't want to do?
2. Catch It - What was your usual reaction to this? How do you handle it?
3. Name It - What emotions did it trigger in you? Be specific. Take a look at the Emotions Wheel if you'd like help.
   • Do you feel humiliated?
   • Do you feel disrespected?
   • Do you feel resentful?
4. Train It -
   1. What are some questions you could ask yourself about those emotions?
      1. ​Why does this feel so humiliating? Is this where my dignity comes from?
      2. Why am I feeling so resentful? 
   2. What are some lies you can replace with truths?​
5. What can you do when you're struggling to go another mile?
   1. ​Pray another Prayer?
   2. Say another verse?
   3. Sing another song?

PRAYER
First, take some time to ask people to identify prayer needs related to the discussion about feeling used by others. Second, take some time to ask for additional prayer requests. Then close your time together in prayer.