KEY VERSE: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. (2 Corinthians 12:9-10)

Ice Breaker: How has social media positively and negatively impacted your relationships?

‘The central issue is this: if you don’t have authenticity, you don’t have relationship. You’re not in a real relationship with someone if you’re not honest, open and vulnerable, because they’re not in a relationship with you – they’re just in a relationship with a shallow projection of you.’ Why do you think there can be a tendency not to show weakness in our friendship groups and churches?

‘Right at the beginning, God said that it is not good for us to be alone. Nothing combats loneliness and cultivates closeness like saying, ‘Me too. I get it. I’m with you.’.’ What has been the impact in your life when you’re struggling with something and someone shared that they have had the same issue?

Do you find it difficult admitting that you’re wrong? Why/why not?

Are there ways that you could be like the mighty elephant in the story: having the ability to be free but still living bound by shame?

What would more freedom look like in your life?

Creative Moment: Send someone an encouraging message.

Next Step: Look for ways this week to be honest and open. If you’re at a small group then share something you’re struggling with and would like prayer for.