Discussion Questions

Where do people today most often look for comfort, and how does Isaiah 40 challenge those sources? What are examples of “withering grass” comforts in your life?
Which of God’s actions in Isaiah 40:1–2 (peace, forgiveness, restoration) speaks most deeply to your current need for comfort? Why?
How does the picture of God as both a mighty King (v. 10) and a tender shepherd (v. 11) shape your understanding of His comfort? Which aspect do you personally find harder to believe?
What would it look like for you to “prepare the way of the Lord” (vv. 3–5) in your own heart today? What obstacles need to be lowered or cleared?

Prayer Points

Pray for God’s Comfort to Break Into Our Weariness, Grief, and Sorrow.
Pray that God will move the hearts of our neighbors, friends, and coworkers to be open to the Good News of Jesus’ Advent.
Pray to experience God’s Strength and Tenderness this Christmas and open our hearts to the ways God desires to fulfill the longings of our hearts.