Ice Breaker: Share about a time when you went through something difficult but came out stronger on the other side. What did you learn from that experience?

Discussion Questions:

1. Read 1 Peter 3:17-22 together. What stands out to you most from this passage? What questions does it raise?
2. Peter says "it is better...that you suffer for doing good rather than doing wrong." Why would God allow His people to suffer when they're doing the right thing? How does this challenge our understanding of fairness?
3. Pastor Rino mentioned that "all things are permissible, but not all things are profitable." What does this mean in practical terms? Can you think of examples from your own life?

Going Deeper

4. The Exhale Principle: The sermon emphasized that "our exhale should always honor God." What does your "exhale" look like when you're under pressure or facing difficulty? How can you improve your response to trials?
5. Redemption vs. Salvation: The pastor distinguished between salvation (what we've been saved from) and redemption (being purchased/restored). How does understanding redemption change the way you view your relationship with Christ?
6. Fighting from Victory: The sermon stated, "We do not fight for victory. We fight from victory." What's the difference? How does this perspective change the way you approach spiritual battles or life challenges?
7. Peter uses Noah's story as an example of enduring through difficulty. Noah built the ark for 120 years while being mocked. What can we learn from Noah's perseverance? How can this encourage us in our own trials?

Personal Application

8. The "Why Not You?" Question: When facing trials, we often ask "Why me?" The pastor challenged us to ask "Why not me?" How would this shift in perspective change your attitude toward current difficulties?
9. Think about a current trial or persecution you're facing (it could be at work, in relationships, or elsewhere). How can you "suffer for the right reasons" in that situation? What would it look like to respond with Christ-like character?
10. The sermon mentioned that suffering can open our hearts to our brothers and sisters in Christ, teaching us "the power of team." Are you trying to handle your struggles alone? Who in your life could you reach out to for support?

Practical Applications
Choose at least one action step for this week:

• Guard Your Words: Following Psalm 34, commit to guarding your tongue from evil and speaking no deceit, especially when under stress. Ask someone to hold you accountable.
• Gratitude for Redemption: Spend time this week thanking Jesus specifically for your redemption—not just salvation, but the price He paid to purchase you.
• Reach Out: If you're going through a trial, reach out to at least one person in your small group or church family for prayer and support.
• Perspective Shift: When facing difficulty this week, practice asking "Why not me?" instead of "Why me?" Journal about how this changes your attitude.
• Study Victory: Read and meditate on Romans 8:31-39. Write down what Christ's victory means for the specific challenges you're facing.