Discussion Questions:
1. Can resilience truly be learned only through experiencing suffering and fire, as Steve Carter suggests? How do you understand the connection between resilience and suffering or adversity?
2. Markus Watson mentions that Steve Carter was set to succeed Bill Hybels at Willow Creek Church but ultimately offered his resignation due to the leadership’s handling of the situation. How difficult do you think that was for Steve? How hard would it have been for you?
3. Tod Bolsinger discusses the importance of reflection, relationships, and spiritual practices in developing resilience. Have you found these elements to be helpful in navigating challenging times in your own life or leadership?
4. How do you interpret the statement “you’re formed when you’re facing the crucible of change”? What role does adversity play in shaping leaders and individuals?
5. Markus Watson emphasizes the role of supportive relationships and spiritual practices in helping him navigate fire and suffering. How do you view the significance of community and spiritual grounding in developing resilience?
6. Do you resonate with the idea that leaders are formed in the leading and that being over your head can be a means of God’s presence? How does this perspective influence your understanding of leadership and resilience?
7. Tod Bolsinger mentions being good stewards of our pain in order to grow. What does this concept mean to you, and how might it apply to your own experiences of adversity and resilience?
8. What are the potential pitfalls of interpreting suffering as a means for something good, especially in the context of resilience and spiritual growth? How can such perspectives be balanced with the reality of pain and suffering?
9. Reflecting on the conversation, how have supportive individuals or communities played a role in your own resilience during difficult times? In what ways have relationships impacted your ability to navigate challenges?
10. Thinking about Steve Carter’s quote on learning resilience through fire and suffering, how might this perspective inform the ways we approach and support others in times of hardship and adversity?
