1. ​Review:  In the spirit of the two reflection questions we'll be asking of ourselves throughout this entire series: 1) What do you think the Holy Spirit is saying to you these days (particularly in the Sermon on the Mount)? and 2) Where is he calling you to obedience in this?

2. Take a moment in prayer, welcoming the Spirit's presence.  Then read Matthew 5:2-12 (the Beatitudes).  Which one stands out to you as being especially relevant in your life these days and why?

3. Phil talked about Mt. 5:4 - "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted."  Do we really believe that those who mourn, grieve, or are sorrowful are blessed? 

4. There are all sorts of mourning.  Phil asked if we are broken over the brokenness of the world.  Read Psalm 119:136, Philippians 3:18, and Jeremiah 9:1 and discuss the kinds of mourning you see there.

5. We don't always know ourselves or our own hearts very well.  In Psalm 139, David says, "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts.  See if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."  Take a moment and pray this verse, and ask God to show you anything you may need to acknowledge or confess to him.  Don't shrink back from anything that may cause you sadness, grief, or mourning.  Offer that to God and receive the comfort and forgiveness of Christ.  (If you're in a small group consider praying for one another about this.)

6. The Holy Spirit is known as the paraclete, which means advocate, counselor, helper, or comforter.  How have you experienced the Holy Spirit as your Comforter? How have you experienced Him using you to comfort others (2 Corinthians 1:3-4)?

7. Read this question and answer from the Heidelberg Catechism. What truth comforts you most and why?   

Q. What is your only comfort in life and death? 

A. That I am not my own, but belong with body and soul, both in life and in death, to my faithful Saviour Jesus Christ. 

He has fully paid for all my sins with his precious blood, and has set me free from all the power of the devil. 

He also preserves me in such a way that without the will of my heavenly Father not a hair can fall from my head; Indeed, all things must work together for my salvation. 

Therefore, by his Holy Spirit he also assures me of eternal life and makes me heartily willing and ready from now on to live for him. 

(1 Cor 6:19, 20; 2 Rom 14:7-9; 1 Cor 3:23; Tit 2:14)

   8. ​In light of our Theme Verse during this study, (Matthew 7:24) consider: 

• What is the Holy Spirit saying to me?​

• Where is He calling me to obedience?

      Take a moment to pray and ask the Lord for guidance, mercy, and strength. ​

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