Here are some questions based on last Sunday’s sermon text (Psalm 121), in case they’re helpful to you for personal growth or group discussion…

• [1-2] A pilgrim on the hard road of life needs help is he/she is to arrive safely at “the big party”—God’s festival presence in the New Heavens and New Earth. What kind of help do you think you need?

• God has said that he is our help, our companion coming alongside us on the way. What kind of help do you expect from “the LORD who made heaven and earth”? What kind of help do you see in Jesus? What kind of help do you see in the Holy Spirit, whom Jesus called “another helper” like him (John 14:16, 26; 15:26; 16:7)?

• [3-4] God is constantly, carefully watching over you, to keep you on the way to his festival presence. Do you think of his attention as being intimidating (“He knows when you’ve been bad or good, so be good for goodness’ sake!“) or comforting, reassuring, encouraging? Why?

• In what ways are you personally prone to stumbling on the road through life? Do you know how God keeps your foot from stumbling?

• [5-6] The LORD himself is your shade, intercepting that which would kill you and prevent you from entering his festival presence. On the cross, Jesus sheltered you from the wrath of God by his own death in your place. Why do you think he would do that? What is your response to that?

• [7-8] Read Romans 8:28-39. Does God’s preservation of your life mean you will never experience hardship or suffering? Does God’s preservation of your life depend on your faith or understanding? Is there any reason for God ever to give up preserving your life?