Setbacks – Outline

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Setbacks

- OVERVIEW

Life is full of disappointments, losses, delays, and difficulties. Sometimes setbacks can shake our faith, but they can also become opportunities for spiritual growth. This week we will study several Bible stories that reveal how God remains faithful during life's storms. Although we may not always understand why difficulties happen, we can trust that God is still working for our good and helping us grow closer to Him.

- SATURDAY – Introduction

- Memory Text

Romans 5:3-5

KJV 3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; 4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope: 5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.

CEV 3 But that's not all! We gladly suffer, because we know that suffering helps us to endure. 4 And endurance builds character, which gives us a hope 5 that will never disappoint us. All of this happens because God has given us the Holy Spirit, who fills our hearts with his love.

A N O T
B W A G I T
K T T P P
A P C
A C H
N H D N D
B T L O G
H B P O I O H
B T H S W W G T U

- Lesson

Nobody enjoys setbacks. We naturally prefer comfort, success, and smooth pathways. Yet many of the greatest lessons of faith are learned during difficult times.

When difficulties come, we can either become discouraged or choose to trust that God is still leading our lives. He often uses trials to strengthen our faith and draw us closer to Him.

Paul explains that trials can produce perseverance, character, and hope – Romans 5:3-5

KJV 3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; 4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope: 5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.

CEV 3 But that's not all! We gladly suffer, because we know that suffering helps us to endure. 4 And endurance builds character, which gives us a hope 5 that will never disappoint us. All of this happens because God has given us the Holy Spirit, who fills our hearts with his love.

..God does not waste our difficulties. He can use them to deepen our faith and strengthen our relationship with Him.

Throughout this week's lesson we will see how storms, sickness, suffering, disappointment, and weakness became opportunities for God's power and faithfulness to be revealed.

- EGW Notes (Paraphrased)

Ellen White explains that Christians face many battles and temptations. Human strength alone is not enough to overcome the enemy.

Victory comes when we recognise our weakness and depend fully upon Jesus. He understands our struggles and promises strength for every trial.

When we place our confidence in Christ rather than ourselves, setbacks become opportunities to experience His power.

- Conclusion

God may not remove every difficulty immediately, but He promises to walk beside us through them.

- Reflection

How do you usually react when life becomes difficult?

Reveal Suggested Answer

What can setbacks teach us about God?

Reveal Suggested Answer

- SUNDAY – Life's Storms

- Lesson

Jesus instructed His disciples to cross the Sea of Galilee – Mark 4:35

KJV 35 And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side.

CEV (Matthew 8. 23-27; Luke 8. 22-25) 35 That evening, Jesus said to his disciples, “Let's cross to the east side.”

..Although He knew a storm was coming, He still led them into the journey.

This powerful story teaches that following God does not guarantee a trouble-free life. Sometimes the storms come even when we are exactly where God wants us to be.

Jesus and His disciples experienced a frightening storm on the Sea of Galilee. This story teaches us how faith grows during life's difficulties.

Read Mark 4:35-41

KJV 35 And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side. 36 And when they had sent away the multitude, they took him even as he was in the ship. And there were also with him other little ships. 37 And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full. 38 And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish? 39 And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. 40 And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith? 41 And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?

CEV (Matthew 8. 23-27; Luke 8. 22-25) 35 That evening, Jesus said to his disciples, “Let's cross to the east side.” 36 So they left the crowd, and his disciples started across the lake with him in the boat. Some other boats followed along. 37 Suddenly a storm struck the lake. Waves started splashing into the boat, and it was about to sink. 38 Jesus was in the back of the boat with his head on a pillow, and he was asleep. His disciples woke him and said, “Teacher, don't you care that we're about to drown?” 39 Jesus got up and ordered the wind and the waves to be quiet. The wind stopped, and everything was calm. 40 Jesus asked his disciples, “Why were you afraid? Don't you have any faith?” 41 Now they were more afraid than ever and said to each other, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!”

1. Jesus Leads the Journey – Mark 4:35-36

KJV 35 And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side. 36 And when they had sent away the multitude, they took him even as he was in the ship. And there were also with him other little ships.

CEV (Matthew 8. 23-27; Luke 8. 22-25) 35 That evening, Jesus said to his disciples, “Let's cross to the east side.” 36 So they left the crowd, and his disciples started across the lake with him in the boat. Some other boats followed along.

Jesus tells the disciples to cross the lake, and they begin the journey together.

2. A Violent Storm Arises – Mark 4:37

KJV 37 And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full.

CEV 37 Suddenly a storm struck the lake. Waves started splashing into the boat, and it was about to sink.

Powerful winds and waves threaten to overwhelm the boat.

3. The Disciples Wake Jesus – Mark 4:38

KJV 38 And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish?

CEV 38 Jesus was in the back of the boat with his head on a pillow, and he was asleep. His disciples woke him and said, “Teacher, don't you care that we're about to drown?”

Fear fills their hearts, and they question whether Jesus cares about their situation.

4. Jesus Calms the Storm – Mark 4:39

KJV 39 And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.

CEV 39 Jesus got up and ordered the wind and the waves to be quiet. The wind stopped, and everything was calm.

With a simple command, Jesus rebukes the wind, and the sea becomes calm.

5. A Lesson About Faith – Mark 4:40-41

KJV 40 And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith? 41 And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?

CEV 40 Jesus asked his disciples, “Why were you afraid? Don't you have any faith?” 41 Now they were more afraid than ever and said to each other, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!”

Jesus challenges their fear and reminds them to trust Him.

This story reminds us that Jesus remains with us during life's storms. Even when He seems silent, He has not abandoned us.

We are called to walk by faith rather than by sight – 2 Corinthians 5:7

KJV 7 (For we walk by faith, not by sight: )

CEV 7 But we live by faith, not by what we see.

..God's apparent silence does not mean His absence.

- EGW Notes (Paraphrased)

Ellen White explains that Jesus maintained perfect peace because of His complete trust in the Father.

The same peace is available to believers today. When we trust God, we can experience calmness even when circumstances seem overwhelming.

Jesus not only calmed the storm on Galilee but can also bring peace to troubled hearts.

- Conclusion

The presence of Jesus does not prevent every storm, but it guarantees that we never face them alone.

- Reflection

Why did the disciples become afraid?

Reveal Suggested Answer

What storm in your life needs to be placed into God's hands?

Reveal Suggested Answer

- MONDAY – Be Made Well

- Lesson

For twelve years a woman suffered from a disease that no doctor could cure – Mark 5:25-26

KJV 25 And a certain woman, which had an issue of blood twelve years, 26 And had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse,

CEV 25 In the crowd was a woman who had been bleeding for twelve years. 26 She had gone to many doctors, and they had not done anything except cause her a lot of pain. She had paid them all the money she had. But instead of getting better, she only got worse.

..Her story teaches us about perseverance, faith, and hope.

Despite many disappointments, she refused to give up. She believed Jesus could help her when no one else could.

This passage also begins with Jairus pleading for his daughter. While Jesus is on the way to help one suffering family, He stops to restore another suffering person. This shows that Jesus notices individual faith even in a large crowd.

Read Mark 5:21-34

KJV 21 And when Jesus was passed over again by ship unto the other side, much people gathered unto him: and he was nigh unto the sea. 22 And, behold, there cometh one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name; and when he saw him, he fell at his feet, 23 And besought him greatly, saying, My little daughter lieth at the point of death: I pray thee, come and lay thy hands on her, that she may be healed; and she shall live. 24 And Jesus went with him; and much people followed him, and thronged him. 25 And a certain woman, which had an issue of blood twelve years, 26 And had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse, 27 When she had heard of Jesus, came in the press behind, and touched his garment. 28 For she said, If I may touch but his clothes, I shall be whole. 29 And straightway the fountain of her blood was dried up; and she felt in her body that she was healed of that plague. 30 And Jesus, immediately knowing in himself that virtue had gone out of him, turned him about in the press, and said, Who touched my clothes? 31 And his disciples said unto him, Thou seest the multitude thronging thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me? 32 And he looked round about to see her that had done this thing. 33 But the woman fearing and trembling, knowing what was done in her, came and fell down before him, and told him all the truth. 34 And he said unto her, Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague.

CEV (Matthew 9. 18-26; Luke 8. 40-56) 21 Once again Jesus got into the boat and crossed Lake Galilee. Then as he stood on the shore, a large crowd gathered around him. 22 The person in charge of the synagogue was also there. His name was Jairus, and when he saw Jesus, he went over to him. He knelt at Jesus' feet 23 and started begging him for help. He said, “My little daughter is about to die! Please come and touch her, so she will get well and live.” 24 Jesus went with Jairus. Many people followed along and kept crowding around. 25 In the crowd was a woman who had been bleeding for twelve years. 26 She had gone to many doctors, and they had not done anything except cause her a lot of pain. She had paid them all the money she had. But instead of getting better, she only got worse. 27 The woman had heard about Jesus, so she came up behind him in the crowd and barely touched his clothes. 28 She had said to herself, “If I can just touch his clothes, I will be healed.” 29 As soon as she touched them, her bleeding stopped, and she knew she was healed. 30 At that moment Jesus felt power go out from him. He turned to the crowd and asked, “Who touched my clothes?” 31 His disciples said to him, “Look at all these people crowding around you! How can you ask who touched you?” 32 But Jesus turned to see who had touched him. 33 The woman knew what had happened to her. So she came trembling with fear and knelt down in front of Jesus. Then she told him the whole story. 34 Jesus said to the woman, “You are now well because of your faith. May God give you peace! You are healed, and you will no longer be in pain.”

1. Jairus Pleads With Jesus – Mark 5:21-24

KJV 21 And when Jesus was passed over again by ship unto the other side, much people gathered unto him: and he was nigh unto the sea. 22 And, behold, there cometh one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name; and when he saw him, he fell at his feet, 23 And besought him greatly, saying, My little daughter lieth at the point of death: I pray thee, come and lay thy hands on her, that she may be healed; and she shall live. 24 And Jesus went with him; and much people followed him, and thronged him.

CEV (Matthew 9. 18-26; Luke 8. 40-56) 21 Once again Jesus got into the boat and crossed Lake Galilee. Then as he stood on the shore, a large crowd gathered around him. 22 The person in charge of the synagogue was also there. His name was Jairus, and when he saw Jesus, he went over to him. He knelt at Jesus' feet 23 and started begging him for help. He said, “My little daughter is about to die! Please come and touch her, so she will get well and live.” 24 Jesus went with Jairus. Many people followed along and kept crowding around.

Jairus begs Jesus to come and heal his dying daughter, and Jesus goes with him as the crowd follows.

2. Years of Suffering – Mark 5:25-26

KJV 25 And a certain woman, which had an issue of blood twelve years, 26 And had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse,

CEV 25 In the crowd was a woman who had been bleeding for twelve years. 26 She had gone to many doctors, and they had not done anything except cause her a lot of pain. She had paid them all the money she had. But instead of getting better, she only got worse.

A woman suffers for twelve years and spends everything she has seeking help, but her condition only grows worse.

3. Faith Moves Her Forward – Mark 5:27-29

KJV 27 When she had heard of Jesus, came in the press behind, and touched his garment. 28 For she said, If I may touch but his clothes, I shall be whole. 29 And straightway the fountain of her blood was dried up; and she felt in her body that she was healed of that plague.

CEV 27 The woman had heard about Jesus, so she came up behind him in the crowd and barely touched his clothes. 28 She had said to herself, “If I can just touch his clothes, I will be healed.” 29 As soon as she touched them, her bleeding stopped, and she knew she was healed.

She hears about Jesus, reaches through the crowd, touches His garment, and is immediately healed.

4. Jesus Seeks the Believer – Mark 5:30-32

KJV 30 And Jesus, immediately knowing in himself that virtue had gone out of him, turned him about in the press, and said, Who touched my clothes? 31 And his disciples said unto him, Thou seest the multitude thronging thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me? 32 And he looked round about to see her that had done this thing.

CEV 30 At that moment Jesus felt power go out from him. He turned to the crowd and asked, “Who touched my clothes?” 31 His disciples said to him, “Look at all these people crowding around you! How can you ask who touched you?” 32 But Jesus turned to see who had touched him.

Jesus stops and asks who touched Him, showing that He recognises the difference between casual contact and genuine faith.

5. Faith Is Publicly Affirmed – Mark 5:33-34

KJV 33 But the woman fearing and trembling, knowing what was done in her, came and fell down before him, and told him all the truth. 34 And he said unto her, Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague.

CEV 33 The woman knew what had happened to her. So she came trembling with fear and knelt down in front of Jesus. Then she told him the whole story. 34 Jesus said to the woman, “You are now well because of your faith. May God give you peace! You are healed, and you will no longer be in pain.”

The woman comes forward trembling, and Jesus comforts her, declaring that her faith has made her well.

Many people were near Jesus that day, but only one reached out in genuine faith. The same Jesus still invites us to bring our needs to Him today.

This woman demonstrated perseverance, character, and hope – Romans 5:3-5

KJV 3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; 4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope: 5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.

CEV 3 But that's not all! We gladly suffer, because we know that suffering helps us to endure. 4 And endurance builds character, which gives us a hope 5 that will never disappoint us. All of this happens because God has given us the Holy Spirit, who fills our hearts with his love.

..Her setback became an opportunity to experience Christ's power and compassion.

Jesus still invites people to come to Him – Matthew 11:28-29

KJV 28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.

CEV 28 If you are tired from carrying heavy burdens, come to me and I will give you rest. 29 Take the yoke I give you. Put it on your shoulders and learn from me. I am gentle and humble, and you will find rest.

..He welcomes the weary, discouraged, and burdened.

- EGW Notes (Paraphrased)

Ellen White explains that many people crowded around Jesus, but only one exercised living faith.

The woman believed that Christ could help her, and her faith connected her with divine power.

True faith is more than knowing about Jesus. It is personally trusting Him with our deepest needs.

- Conclusion

Christ still responds to sincere faith today.

- Reflection

Why was the woman's touch different from everyone else's?

Reveal Suggested Answer

What need do you need to bring to Jesus today?

Reveal Suggested Answer

- TUESDAY – Trusting Through Suffering

- Lesson

Job's suffering raised difficult questions about pain, loss, and faith. Yet even in his darkest moments, Job refused to let go of God.

Although Job lost his children, wealth, health, and reputation, he continued trusting the Lord. His circumstances changed dramatically, but his confidence in God remained.

Job's story reminds us that faith is often tested most deeply when life seems unfair and God's purposes are difficult to understand.

Read Job 19:23-27

KJV 23 Oh that my words were now written! oh that they were printed in a book! 24 That they were graven with an iron pen and lead in the rock for ever! 25 For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth: 26 And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God: 27 Whom I shall see for myself, and mine eyes shall behold, and not another; though my reins be consumed within me.

CEV 23 I wish that my words could be written down 24 or chiseled into rock. 25 I know that my Protector lives, and at the end he will stand on this earth. 26 My flesh may be destroyed, yet from this body I will see God. 27 Yes, I will see him for myself, and I long for that moment.

1. Job Wants His Testimony Preserved – Job 19:23-24

KJV 23 Oh that my words were now written! oh that they were printed in a book! 24 That they were graven with an iron pen and lead in the rock for ever!

CEV 23 I wish that my words could be written down 24 or chiseled into rock.

Job wishes his words could be permanently recorded so others may know his faith.

2. Job Trusts His Redeemer – Job 19:25

KJV 25 For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth:

CEV 25 I know that my Protector lives, and at the end he will stand on this earth.

In the middle of his suffering, Job confidently declares that his Redeemer lives.

3. Job Looks Beyond Death – Job 19:26

KJV 26 And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God:

CEV 26 My flesh may be destroyed, yet from this body I will see God.

He believes that even death cannot destroy God's promises.

4. Job Expects to See God – Job 19:27

KJV 27 Whom I shall see for myself, and mine eyes shall behold, and not another; though my reins be consumed within me.

CEV 27 Yes, I will see him for myself, and I long for that moment.

Job's hope rests in a future reunion with God Himself.

Job's circumstances gave him little reason for optimism, yet his confidence rested in God rather than his present situation.

Later, Job describes another struggle that many believers experience.

Read Job 23:8-12

KJV 8 Behold, I go forward, but he is not there; and backward, but I cannot perceive him: 9 On the left hand, where he doth work, but I cannot behold him: he hideth himself on the right hand, that I cannot see him: 10 But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold. 11 My foot hath held his steps, his way have I kept, and not declined. 12 Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips; I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food.

CEV 8 I cannot find God anywhere — in front or back of me, 9 to my left or my right. God is always at work, though I never see him. 10 But he knows what I am doing, and when he tests me, I will be pure as gold. * 11 I have never refused to follow any of his commands, 12 and I have always treasured his teachings.

1. Job Searches for God – Job 23:8-9

KJV 8 Behold, I go forward, but he is not there; and backward, but I cannot perceive him: 9 On the left hand, where he doth work, but I cannot behold him: he hideth himself on the right hand, that I cannot see him:

CEV 8 I cannot find God anywhere — in front or back of me, 9 to my left or my right. God is always at work, though I never see him.

Job longs to find God but cannot understand where He is working.

2. God Knows the Way – Job 23:10

KJV 10 But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.

CEV 10 But he knows what I am doing, and when he tests me, I will be pure as gold. *

Although Job cannot see God clearly, he trusts that God sees him completely.

3. Job Remains Faithful – Job 23:11-12

KJV 11 My foot hath held his steps, his way have I kept, and not declined. 12 Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips; I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food.

CEV 11 I have never refused to follow any of his commands, 12 and I have always treasured his teachings.

He continues following God's ways and treasures God's Word above earthly necessities.

Job teaches us that faith is not the absence of questions. Faith is continuing to trust God while waiting for answers.

Sometimes setbacks leave us confused and discouraged. Like Job, we may not understand God's plan, but we can trust His character.

Faith is trusting God even when we cannot see the whole picture – Hebrews 11:1

KJV 1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

CEV 1 Faith makes us sure of what we hope for and gives us proof of what we cannot see.

..The Lord sees what we cannot see and is working for our eternal good.

- EGW Notes (Paraphrased)

Ellen White explains that God's people will often experience circumstances they cannot fully understand.

At times God may seem silent, yet He never abandons His children. He sees the end from the beginning and continues working for their good.

Like Job, we may not receive immediate answers, but we can remain faithful while trusting God's wisdom and love.

- Conclusion

When we cannot understand God's actions, we can still trust His character.

- Reflection

What gave Job hope during his suffering?

Reveal Suggested Answer

What can we learn from Job when life does not make sense?

Reveal Suggested Answer

- WEDNESDAY – The Road to Emmaus

- Lesson

Two disciples left Jerusalem discouraged and confused after Christ's crucifixion. What seemed like a devastating setback was actually part of God's plan.

Their hopes had been centred on what they expected Jesus to do. When events unfolded differently, they struggled to understand what God was accomplishing.

What follows is one of the most encouraging stories in the Bible because it shows that Jesus often comes closest when we feel most discouraged.

Read Luke 24:13-27

KJV 13 And, behold, two of them went that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was from Jerusalem about threescore furlongs. 14 And they talked together of all these things which had happened. 15 And it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned, Jesus himself drew near, and went with them. 16 But their eyes were holden that they should not know him. 17 And he said unto them, What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad? 18 And the one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto him, Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days? 19 And he said unto them, What things? And they said unto him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people: 20 And how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him to be condemned to death, and have crucified him. 21 But we trusted that it had been he which should have redeemed Israel: and beside all this, to day is the third day since these things were done. 22 Yea, and certain women also of our company made us astonished, which were early at the sepulchre; 23 And when they found not his body, they came, saying, that they had also seen a vision of angels, which said that he was alive. 24 And certain of them which were with us went to the sepulchre, and found it even so as the women had said: but him they saw not. 25 Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken: 26 Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory? 27 And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.

CEV (Mark 16. 12,13) 13 That same day two of Jesus' disciples were going to the village of Emmaus, which was about eleven kilometers from Jerusalem. 14 As they were talking and thinking about what had happened, 15 Jesus came near and started walking along beside them. 16 But they did not know who he was. 17 Jesus asked them, “What were you talking about as you walked along?”The two of them stood there looking sad and gloomy. 18 Then the one named Cleopas asked Jesus, “Are you the only person from Jerusalem who didn't know what was happening there these last few days?” 19 “What do you mean?” Jesus asked. They answered: Those things that happened to Jesus from Nazareth. By what he did and said he showed that he was a powerful prophet, who pleased God and all the people. 20 Then the chief priests and our leaders had him arrested and sentenced to die on a cross. 21 We had hoped that he would be the one to set Israel free! But it has already been three days since all this happened. 22 Some women in our group surprised us. They had gone to the tomb early in the morning, 23 but did not find the body of Jesus. They came back, saying they had seen a vision of angels who told them that he is alive. 24 Some men from our group went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said. But they didn't see Jesus either. 25 Then Jesus asked the two disciples, “Why can't you understand? How can you be so slow to believe all that the prophets said? 26 Didn't you know that the Messiah would have to suffer before he was given his glory?” 27 Jesus then explained everything written about himself in the Scriptures, beginning with the Law of Moses and the Books of the Prophets.

1. Two Disciples Leave Jerusalem – Luke 24:13-14

KJV 13 And, behold, two of them went that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was from Jerusalem about threescore furlongs. 14 And they talked together of all these things which had happened.

CEV (Mark 16. 12,13) 13 That same day two of Jesus' disciples were going to the village of Emmaus, which was about eleven kilometers from Jerusalem. 14 As they were talking and thinking about what had happened,

The disciples travel to Emmaus while discussing the troubling events surrounding Jesus' death.

2. Jesus Joins Their Journey – Luke 24:15-16

KJV 15 And it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned, Jesus himself drew near, and went with them. 16 But their eyes were holden that they should not know him.

CEV 15 Jesus came near and started walking along beside them. 16 But they did not know who he was.

Jesus walks beside them, but they do not recognise Him.

3. The Disciples Share Their Disappointment – Luke 24:17-24

KJV 17 And he said unto them, What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad? 18 And the one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto him, Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days? 19 And he said unto them, What things? And they said unto him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people: 20 And how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him to be condemned to death, and have crucified him. 21 But we trusted that it had been he which should have redeemed Israel: and beside all this, to day is the third day since these things were done. 22 Yea, and certain women also of our company made us astonished, which were early at the sepulchre; 23 And when they found not his body, they came, saying, that they had also seen a vision of angels, which said that he was alive. 24 And certain of them which were with us went to the sepulchre, and found it even so as the women had said: but him they saw not.

CEV 17 Jesus asked them, “What were you talking about as you walked along?”The two of them stood there looking sad and gloomy. 18 Then the one named Cleopas asked Jesus, “Are you the only person from Jerusalem who didn't know what was happening there these last few days?” 19 “What do you mean?” Jesus asked. They answered: Those things that happened to Jesus from Nazareth. By what he did and said he showed that he was a powerful prophet, who pleased God and all the people. 20 Then the chief priests and our leaders had him arrested and sentenced to die on a cross. 21 We had hoped that he would be the one to set Israel free! But it has already been three days since all this happened. 22 Some women in our group surprised us. They had gone to the tomb early in the morning, 23 but did not find the body of Jesus. They came back, saying they had seen a vision of angels who told them that he is alive. 24 Some men from our group went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said. But they didn't see Jesus either.

They explain how their hopes seem shattered and how recent events have left them confused.

4. Jesus Corrects Their Understanding – Luke 24:25-26

KJV 25 Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken: 26 Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory?

CEV 25 Then Jesus asked the two disciples, “Why can't you understand? How can you be so slow to believe all that the prophets said? 26 Didn't you know that the Messiah would have to suffer before he was given his glory?”

Jesus explains that the Messiah first needed to suffer before entering glory.

5. Jesus Opens the Scriptures – Luke 24:27

KJV 27 And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.

CEV 27 Jesus then explained everything written about himself in the Scriptures, beginning with the Law of Moses and the Books of the Prophets.

Beginning with Moses and the prophets, Jesus shows how Scripture pointed to Him.

The disciples thought everything had gone wrong, yet Jesus was closer than they realised. The same is often true in our own setbacks.

What appeared to be a terrible defeat was actually the greatest victory in history. God's plan was moving forward even when the disciples could not see it.

Jesus often guides His people through Scripture – Luke 24:27

KJV 27 And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.

CEV 27 Jesus then explained everything written about himself in the Scriptures, beginning with the Law of Moses and the Books of the Prophets.

..God's Word helps us understand His purposes when circumstances seem confusing.

- EGW Notes (Paraphrased)

Ellen White explains that Jesus directed the disciples to the Scriptures because faith should rest upon God's Word.

As Christ explained the prophecies, their confusion gradually disappeared and their faith grew stronger.

The Bible still provides light and understanding for believers facing discouragement, uncertainty, and disappointment.

- Conclusion

What appears to be a setback may actually be part of God's greater plan.

- Reflection

Why were the disciples discouraged?

Reveal Suggested Answer

How did Jesus help restore their faith?

Reveal Suggested Answer

- THURSDAY – Strength Through Weakness

- Lesson

Most people prefer to feel strong, capable, and self-sufficient. Yet God often uses setbacks to teach us our need of Him.

The apostle Paul learned this lesson through his own struggles. Rather than removing every difficulty, God taught Paul to depend upon divine strength.

Paul discovered that God's grace is sufficient – 2 Corinthians 12:9

KJV 9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

CEV 9 But he replied, “My gift of undeserved grace is all you need. My power is strongest when you are weak.” So if Christ keeps giving me his power, I will gladly brag about how weak I am.

..When human strength reaches its limits, God's power is still available.

Weakness can become a blessing when it drives us closer to Christ. It reminds us that success in the Christian life does not come through self-reliance but through dependence upon God.

The Lord often accomplishes His greatest work through people who recognise their need of Him.

- EGW Notes (Paraphrased)

Ellen White explains that many spiritual failures occur because people trust their own wisdom and strength.

Christ never intended His followers to fight alone. Heaven's resources are available to every believer who seeks God's help.

When we surrender our pride and self-confidence, God can work more effectively through us and reveal His strength in our weakness.

- Conclusion

Our greatest weakness can become an opportunity for God to reveal His power.

- Reflection

Why does God sometimes allow us to experience weakness?

Reveal Suggested Answer

How can setbacks help us grow spiritually?

Reveal Suggested Answer

- FRIDAY – Further Thought

- Lesson

Throughout the Bible, God's people experienced setbacks, disappointments, delays, losses, and suffering. Yet again and again, God used those experiences to strengthen faith, develop character, and prepare people for future service.

Joseph was sold into slavery before becoming a leader in Egypt. David spent years fleeing from Saul before becoming king. The disciples experienced confusion and sorrow before witnessing Christ's resurrection. Their setbacks did not mean God had abandoned them. Often, God was doing His greatest work during the most difficult periods of their lives.

The Christian life does not promise freedom from trials. Instead, God promises His presence through every trial – Isaiah 41:10

KJV 10 Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

CEV 10 Don't be afraid. I am with you. Don't tremble with fear. I am your God. I will make you strong, as I protect you with my arm and give you victories.

..When we trust Him, setbacks can become opportunities for spiritual growth rather than reasons for discouragement.

The Lord sees the end from the beginning. What feels like a setback today may be preparing us for blessings we cannot yet see.

- EGW Notes (Paraphrased)

Ellen White explains that trials often reveal weaknesses in our character that would otherwise remain hidden.

God allows difficulties not to destroy His people but to refine them. Just as gold is purified through fire, Christians are strengthened through testing.

Trials teach patience, humility, perseverance, and trust in God. The Lord never wastes the experiences of His children when those experiences are surrendered to Him.

- Conclusion

A setback does not mean God has stopped working. He often does His greatest work when we can see it the least.

- Reflection

How can setbacks become opportunities for spiritual growth?

Reveal Suggested Answer

Why should we continue trusting God when life does not go as planned?

Reveal Suggested Answer

- DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

What lessons can storms and difficulties teach us about God?

Reveal Suggested Answer

Why do you think God sometimes allows setbacks in the lives of His people?

Reveal Suggested Answer

What similarities do you see between Job's experience and challenges Christians face today?

Reveal Suggested Answer

How can Scripture strengthen our faith during times of disappointment and uncertainty?

Reveal Suggested Answer

How can we help someone who is struggling through a setback?

Reveal Suggested Answer

- LESSON SUMMARY

Setbacks

This week we learned that setbacks do not mean God has abandoned us. The disciples faced a frightening storm, a suffering woman reached out to Jesus in faith, Job trusted God through devastating loss, and the disciples on the road to Emmaus discovered that God was still working even when they could not see it.

Through every setback, God remained faithful. As we trust Christ during life's difficulties, He develops perseverance, character, and hope within us – Romans 5:3-5

KJV 3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; 4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope: 5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.

CEV 3 But that's not all! We gladly suffer, because we know that suffering helps us to endure. 4 And endurance builds character, which gives us a hope 5 that will never disappoint us. All of this happens because God has given us the Holy Spirit, who fills our hearts with his love.

..Even our setbacks can become opportunities for spiritual growth when we place them in His hands.