Stop Laughing and Start Listening

Preacher: Stephen Scott

Worship:
Song Suggestion: Same God – Elevation Worship
As you worship, pray: “Speak Lord, I am listening.” Invite God to refresh your faith and help you hear His voice again.

Check-in:
Faith fatigue is real. Take a moment to share:

• Where have I been tempted to laugh in disbelief instead of listening in faith?
• What promise from God have I struggled to believe lately?

Synopsis of message:
This week we explored the story of Abraham and Sarah (Genesis 17 – 18), who laughed at God’s promise of a child in their old age. Their laughter reflected disbelief – but God still fulfilled His word.

Key Themes:

1. Learn to Listen in Disbelief – Abraham bowed in surrender even while doubting. God welcomes our honesty when it’s paired with reverence.
2. Create Space to Listen – Faith comes by hearing God’s Word (Romans 10:17). We must intentionally make room to hear Him.
3. When You Listen, Really Listen – The Hebrew word Shema means to hear and obey. Listening biblically means putting God’s Word into practice.

God is forming us in the waiting. The promise may be delayed, but He is faithful. When we stop laughing in disbelief and start listening in surrender, our faith is refreshed – and joy returns.

Scripture Focus:

• Genesis 17:17; 18:12 – 15; 21:1 – 3
• Romans 4:18
• Hebrews 4:16
• Romans 10:17
• Matthew 4:4
• James 1:22
• Luke 11:28
• Ephesians 3:20

Discussion Questions:

1. Laughing or Listening?
   • Where have I been laughing at God’s promises because of my limitations or past disappointments?
   • What would it look like to respond with surrender instead of skepticism?
2. Posture of Faith
   • Abraham bowed even in disbelief. What does a posture of surrender look like in my life?
   • How can I bring my doubts to God without letting them define my response?
3. Creating Space
   • What distractions are keeping me from hearing God clearly?
   • What practical steps can I take this week to create space to listen?
4. Obedient Listening
   • What was the last thing God asked me to do? Have I obeyed it?
   • How does Shema – listening and obeying – challenge my current faith walk?

Prayer Moment:

• Pray: “Speak Lord, I am listening.”
• Ask God to refresh your faith and help you believe again.
• Invite the Holy Spirit to empower you to obey what He’s already spoken.
• Pray for those in the group who feel stuck in disappointment or disbelief.

Next Step:
This week, I will:

• Create intentional space to listen to God (e.g., Bible reading, silence, journaling).
• Obey one thing God has already asked me to do.
• Pray daily: “God, I will stop laughing and start listening.”