Expect the Unexpected

Small Group Discussion Guide

Expect the Unexpected
By Don Vess

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Scripture Focus

2 Corinthians 5:7
“For we walk by faith, not by sight.”

Proverbs 16:9
“A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.”

Proverbs 27:1
“Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.”

Additional Scriptures:
•Genesis 12:1
•Hebrews 11:8
•Philippians 4:5–7
•1 Peter 5:7
•Proverbs 3:5–6
•Isaiah 26:3
•John 16:33
•Matthew 24:36–44
•1 Thessalonians 5:1–11

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Opening Question (Icebreaker)
1.Can you share a time when something unexpected changed your plans? What did you learn from that experience?
2.Do you generally enjoy surprises, or do you prefer knowing exactly what’s coming next?

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Devotional Summary

The Bible teaches that believers are called to walk by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7). Faith means trusting God even when we cannot see the full path ahead. Because of this, the life of faith often includes unexpected turns.

Abram (later called Abraham) is a powerful example. In Genesis 12:1, God called him to leave his homeland and go to a place that God would show him. Abram did not receive a map or detailed instructions. Yet Hebrews 11:8 tells us he obeyed and went—even though he did not know where he was going. His obedience came before clarity.

Many believers experience something similar. God places a vision or calling in our hearts, and we begin making plans. But along the journey, circumstances shift. Unexpected challenges, opportunities, losses, or responsibilities appear. In those moments, we must decide whether to panic or to trust God’s guidance.

Scripture offers wisdom for those moments.

First, pray instead of panicking. Philippians 4:6–7 teaches that when we bring our concerns to God in prayer, His peace guards our hearts and minds. Prayer helps re-center our thoughts on God’s presence and care.

Second, guard your heart with God’s promises. Proverbs 3:5–6 reminds us to trust in the Lord rather than relying solely on our own understanding. When we keep our minds focused on God, Isaiah 26:3 promises that He will give us perfect peace.

Jesus also prepared His disciples for unexpected events. In John 16:33, He warned them that they would face trouble in the world—but He also assured them that He had overcome the world. Even when life surprises us, God is still in control.

There is another “unexpected” believers must remain ready for—the return of Jesus. Scripture says His coming will be sudden, like a thief in the night (Matthew 24:36–44; 1 Thessalonians 5:1–11). This reminder is not meant to produce fear but to encourage us to live alert, faithful, and hopeful.

So we are encouraged to make plans and pursue our responsibilities faithfully. Yet we hold our plans with open hands, recognizing that God ultimately directs our steps.

Sometimes the unexpected brings difficulty. Other times it opens doors we never imagined. But when our trust is anchored in God, no surprise can shake our foundation.

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Discussion Questions
1.2 Corinthians 5:7 says we walk by faith, not by sight.
What does this look like in practical, everyday life?
2.Abraham obeyed God without knowing the full plan (Hebrews 11:8).
Why do you think obedience often comes before understanding?
3.When unexpected situations arise, what is your typical first reaction?
How can prayer help shift that response?
4.Proverbs 3:5–6 calls us to trust God rather than our own understanding.
Why can it be difficult to release control of our plans?
5.Jesus promised both trouble and victory in John 16:33.
How does this promise help us face uncertain situations with courage?
6.Scripture encourages believers to stay ready for Christ’s return.
What does it mean to live spiritually alert and prepared?
7.How can trusting God in unexpected seasons strengthen our faith?

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Practical Application

Encourage each group member to practice these steps during the coming week:
•Pause and pray when unexpected situations arise rather than reacting immediately.
•Speak God’s promises daily. Write down key verses such as Philippians 4:6–7, Proverbs 3:5–6, and Isaiah 26:3.
•Ask God each day:
“Lord, what is my next obedient step today?”
•Live with spiritual readiness—keeping your heart aligned with Christ and your hope focused on His return.

Remember:
Faith does not eliminate surprises—it anchors us when they happen.

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Closing Prayer

Father,
Teach us to walk by faith and not by sight. When life surprises us, help us turn to You instead of reacting in fear. Fill our hearts with Your peace and guide our steps when our plans change. Help us trust Your wisdom above our own understanding. Keep us spiritually awake, ready for Your work in our lives and ready for the return of Jesus.

In Jesus’ name, Amen. ?