Hey, Siestas! It’s time for summer Bible study! For the sake of rich fellowship and vital accountability, we hope as many of you as possible are meeting with small groups and on every other Tuesday or as close to Tuesdays as possible. You are absolutely welcome to join us solo but try to stay as involved as possible in the discussions so that you’ll feel plugged in. This is what you’ll do every other Tuesday:
1. Watch the video so you’ll have your instructions for your gathering or for your solo experience. I will always put the bare bones of the instructions in writing on the post just in case there is a video malfunction.
2. (You will find these instructions reiterated in this post because it’s fundamental to the experience.) If you are in a small group, designate one person who will write a comment to this post briefly telling us about your group and your discussion. It can be a different person each week or the same. START THE COMMENT WITH THE CITY, THE NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS AND LOCATION THEN DESCRIBE YOUR GROUP AND ADD SOMETHING ABOUT YOUR DISCUSSION. For instance, I am meeting with my Monday staff members so my comment will begin with:
Houston, Texas; 8 of us; Meeting at Living Proof Ministries. Our group is primarily made up of…The main part of our discussion was about…(And so forth).
3. If you are going solo, your comment will become the way you complete the assignments. In other words, you’ll see that I ask you to describe this season of your life in one word. In your comment, tell us what that one word would be.
Make the length of it one good, descriptive paragraph. Try not to write too much or readers will tend to skip over it.
This clip is to give instructions for your first gathering – the one you are hopefully having today or in next 24 hours. You can watch this together or your leader can watch it and pass on your instructions.
Summer Bible Study – Week 1 from LPV on Vimeo.
I so hope that makes sense! Now, here are the written instructions for your gathering just in case you can’t get the video to work. Welcome aboard! May God take us on a journey that we’ll treasure for many years. Let’s find the Ruth in us, Siestas!
Today in your small group, here’s what I am asking you to do:
1. If you don’t know each other, spend a few minutes finding out some basic biographical information about one another. (Single, married, still in school, or in a career. Children, no children. The regular stuff. Keep in mind that everybody fits in Bible study. You don’t need to all be alike. In fact, the more alike you all are, the less you may sharpen one another.)
2. Each of you in your small group characterize your life in this present season in ONE WORD. Have the leader record these.
3. Each of you in your small group share one specific goal you have this summer for being in Bible study. Have the leader record these, too.
4. Look at the very last verse of the Book of Judges (Judges 21:25) because of its placement just prior to the book we’ll study together this summer. Discuss several specific reasons why doing what each of us sees fit at any given time could be dangerous. After several minutes of discussion, read Jeremiah 17:7-14 and talk about how this segment relates or contrasts to Judges 21:25.
Leader: this is very important. You get back on within 24 hours of meeting and write a brief summation of your group time as a comment to this post. Tell us how many came, your city, and something about your group or your group discussion.
*UPDATE*
Here’s a link to the first chapter of Ruth in case you don’t have your workbook yet.
http://www.lifeway.com/lwc/files/lwcF_Ruth-Sample-Chapter.pdf
I may be the first to leave a comment! I have a slow connection at home so I usually begin to play the Vimeo and then pause it until more loads and I can watch the video without pauses. What is hysterical is the freeze frames. It never seems to matter when I pause it you are always beautiful Beth.
I have to agree with you about the hysterical freeze frames. At one point Beth had her hands up and her mouth open. My small group looked at each other and duplicated the expression. It will be our sign to each other all summer long “I’m doing my home work and loving it!” :-O
We eventually muted the video and hand a disscussion, then went back to the video. Luckily we still got 1 small freeze frame :-O. I think God found it funny too.
I’m going to go ahead and post because I’m doing the study solo this summer, so no group meeting. I’m single, live in Tennessee and my employment status is kind of iffy right now. If I had one word to describe my state of life at present, it would be “frustrated.” I’m participating in the hopes that a structured study will facilitate a bit more consistency in my Bible reading this summer.
As for question 4, I’ll just add that one of my life lessons over the last couple of years has been learning to question my own desires. Sometimes we pursue things we don’t really want, and sometimes we really want something that we look for in all the wrong places. It is exasperating to long for something that you can’t have, and even more aggravating when you find yourself questioning how much you desired it in the first place. How can we trust ourselves at all?
So, to answer the question, I think doing what is right in our own eyes is a recipe for some really dumb decision-making.
Anne I also live in Tennessee and I am going Solo cause I don’t know anyone on here. I saw you were on her Solo from Tennessee thought you might want to join up? Let me know. I have been studying this for 2 weeks already and I’m only on the last verse of the First Chapter but I wanted to start with Siestaville Today! I am sooo excited to begin this is my first Study that I hope to ACTUALLY fiinish!
Michelle – also solo in TN. Would love to meet other Siestas.
I am in Morristown, TN. Anybody in TN close to this area?
I’m solo in Jefferson City, TN- if you’d like to meet up, email me @ [email protected]
I was raised in Morristown! But I live in New England now. I miss it so much!
My e-mail is [email protected].
There is a group of us doing the study in Nashville… well, Nolensville technically. If you want to join us – let me know 🙂
Anne I am so praying for you right now!
I want you to think and pray about something, always for our good, God sometimes says yes to our requests and sometime He says no but much to our supprise I believe He also says Not Yet I believe that is when He wants us to be still! and know Him for me, I’ve got the “Know that He is God” part, it is the be still that i sometimes struggle with. I have learned that when I stop the struggle There is more Peace then I ever thought Possable!
Keeping you in my Prayers
Anne, So glad you are joining “solo” may you find rich community online. I know God will meet you where you are and I pray you will see that with new eyes- that you’ll be “wow-ed” by his provision for you. Praying right now for your job situation too.
Ladies, also single and going solo in TN…would love to join with you ladies if you get together (figuratively).
I’m in Jefferson City, TN- email me at [email protected] if you are close by and interested.
Forgot to say I’ll be happy to meet in Morristown
Anne and Tina and Michelle, I’m also solo in TN but doing this study with an on-line group.
Anne, I understand what you are saying. I’ve just gone part-time at my job and am also single (widowed) and am a little anxious about it. You are so right about doing what is right in your own eyes and bad decision making. Proverbs 3:5-6 help me focus back on God and His provision cause I can sure want what I don’t have!
Camas, WA; 8 of us; Meeting at Panera Bread. We are all mommies who are dedicated to our families and in need of some big girl time! Our discussion centered on our shared goal of digging into God’s Word with a renewed passion; we want to do more than read His word, we long to know it so much that our roots become fixed and established in Him so that we will know He is our Source in times of trial and times of blessing! We are so excited to be on this journey through Ruth together and can’t wait to see how we can experience God more intimately and we are expecting Him to do great things in our group of girlfriends!
Pensacola, Florida; 11 of us; meeting at our dear Terrie’s house! Our ages range from college students to grandparents. Our discussion centered around the amazing work God is doing in all of our lives. We also discussed our desire to know Jesus more through this study. After reading the verse from Judges, the discussion centered around our world, and it’s self centered nature. We also noted what a wonderful opportunity we have to bring light into that darkness!
My daughter, Laura, and I live in Pekin, IL and this will be our second summer Siesta Bible Study. We plan to meet at Starbucks to review the study – if there’s anyone else in the area that would like to join us, let us know!
I’m in Springfield and going solo. Wish I was closer!
Camas, WA. Going solo since I will be traveling for part of the summer.
One word to describe my life right now — uncertainty
Excited about the study and hoping to get a specific word from the Lord.
Beth and Siestas,
This is my first Siesta Bible Study! I am from Mobile, Alabama. I am doing it solo because I am going to Jacksonville, Florida to work for a month! The timing of this is not coincidence. I will know only God in Jacksonville but that is what I want 30 days alone with Him and every other week my Siesta sisters and “momma”! One word to characterize where I am in my present pilgrimmage: sojourner. Each summer I go somewhere to be alone with God and allow Him to do what is needed in my life to conform myself to Him. Beth, my story is much like yours but by His grace I am redeemed! Your Bible studies have been such a huge part of my healing and taking back the ground that satan has tried to plant so God can have a harvest.
Great contrast in both Scriptures – too much like America (Judges 21:25) and a need for 2 Chronicles 7:14 – (If my people) The Lord gave you and excellent choice of Scriptures in Jeremiah 17 that spoke to me as I head to Jacksonville that I am not alone and that He plants us where we are and directs out steps where we are for a reason! He is the King and He is in control. Nothing can happen without His loving permission! The Lord bless and I am looking forward to a wonderful God experience in Siestaville!
Cathy
Hey Cathy~ I live in Palm Coast, Florida, but I work in Jacksonville. Let me know if you need anything or want to know where something is, etc. I know how hard it is to live somewhere and feel all alone. Be Blessed!
Cathy,
I live in Alabama but am originally from Jacksonville. Will be there at the beginning of August to vivit family. Would love to visit with you if you are still there and recap Bible Study! I am going solo also. Let me know if you need to know about restaurants, churches, etc in Jax
Donna
I live in Mobile but will work for Pearson for a month in Jacksonville. Where in Alabama do you live?
Cathy
Hey Cathy! I’m from Mobile as well, and now live in Jacksonville. Please let me know if you need anything while you are here. I go to an awesome church if you are looking for a place to call home for a few weeks.
Cathy,
I am not doing the Bible Study but I live in Jacksonvile and if I can be of any help to you while you are here feel free to email me at [email protected]. I also go to an awesome church, if you want to visit it while you are here.
I’m Julie in Kingsport, TN. I’m flying solo this summer, but I am very excited about beginning the study. I am married with 2 daughters. I work a full-time job and am involved with several community activities, so the word I would use to describe my life in this present season is non-stop! There’s always something to get done! My prayer is that through this study, I will get off focusing on the business of life and focus more on the Lord and his desires for my life. See you back in 2 weeks!
I grew up in Kingsport. Class of ’88.
How cool! I live in Kingsport also. I wasn’t for sure if I would be doing this series or not. I think I might go check it out at Lifeway in the next few days. I also want to focus more on the Lord and just enjoy being with him and doing what He has planned for me.
Hi Julie –
I am also in Kingsport and am going solo –
I’m Sue, and I’m also in Kingsport, TN. At this point, I am studying solo. I have never participated in the Siestas study before, but have completed many of Beth’s studies. I have been married for nearly 27 years, and have a 19 year old daughter. One word to describe me at this season of life is “blessed!” I have a Savior who love me, and accepts me for who I am. I am a teacher, and love my job, even though I forget that when things get stressful. Currently, I am on my short summer break, have been reading professional literature, and I need to get back in the Word. This is a time for refreshing. I need the discipline of a study.
If you girls want to get together at some point in the Bible study for discussion – maybe at Panera or Starbucks – I would love to do so. My email is [email protected].
Palmer, Alaska. One of me. Meeting in my living room, right outside is the most beautiful mountain range. (I’m having my Solo Bible Study in the wee hours of Tuesday morning b/c out of state company descends on me and my abode in a few hours). One word: Agitated (but in a primarily good way). One specific goal: to view Ruth as a friend – not only a biblical character from antiquity. Based on the Word, what would I learn from Ruth, the woman, if she were a dear, personal friend of mine? Re: Judges/Jeremiah verses: that when I do things in my life “as I see fit” – it’s a clear sign my soul is thirsty: that I have “forsaken (even if it seems in a small or insignificant place in my life) the Lord, the spring of living water.” So excited for this study!!
Lynchburg, VA; Just ME; 32 yrs old, married for 9 yrs, 3 boys (7, 4 &2); My one word would be: Exhausted; My goal seems to be the same over and over and that is to know God more deeply and to love and serve Him with all of me. I pray I am an example to my family and to others but more importantly I am what He has called me to be. I believe in reading the verses and just in everyday life especially with being with my 3 boys all day everyday, I learn a lot of life lessons just by watching them and trying to teach them what is right. Just as an example, but if I tell my boys to not do something that I know would harm them, and they go ahead and make the decision to do as they please, there will be consequences. If I go about my everyday life and do exactly as I please, when I know God would have me do otherwise, I will have consequences. I am so thankful for a loving Father that will always be there to mold me and guide me. My prayer is that I will be there for my children and teach them the joys of following hard after God. I am so excited about this summer. This is my first time doing the Summer Bible Study, but I know I am about to experience some great things. Thank you for all you do to continue to keep us in His Word.
Alaina, I know exactally how you feel. I have 3 boys myself and it takes a speacial mama to raise 3 active boys. Your first couple of lines are what I so feel also. Glad to know someone else is the “Queen of the family”.
Yeah for Queens of the family!!!! I have two boys and not sure how God saw me fit to raise boys…I do know that He is trying to mold me through them!! 🙂
I so agree witht the molding part…..
As a momma to 3 boys, 14,12, and 9 I will join the all boy momma club with you. 🙂 Its just me and the dogs that are the girls. We still dominate though. Ha!
Hi everyone, My name is Tricia, I’m 34 years old and live in Georgia. I haven’t been able to get the Bible Study but wanted to say that I hope that everyone starting today has a wonderful experience and that this summer will open hearts and minds to God’s Word!
Hi there seista I went on Kelly Minter web sight to get mind I could not find it anywhere so I finally found it on her web sight. Hope this helps anyone who needs a study book. This is for TRICIA
Thanks Carol, though my problem isn’t the finding it part. I hope to have the money to get the study before too long. Thanks again.
Hey Tricia if you need the money I can get you one and have it sent to you its up to you if you let me know I will be more than happy to do that.
My email is [email protected]
Blessings to you sweet seista
Carol
That is soo sweet!
Where do you live in Georgia?
Sorry Laura, i just saw this comment, I assume you meant me? I live in Brunswick.
Locust Gorve, GA 9 of us. We are a diverse group of ladies that are in love with Jesus : ) we are loving the study. Our group started last Tuesday because our school system has a short summer. We meet in my home and we had the chicken enchiladas from the book…delicious! Our discussion was so rich…this is a great study.
I do have a question. I have a group of gals that want to do the study however they are on vacation and we cannot meet together until July 7th. We can archieve the blogs to get the video correct?
Yes, you will still be able to access the older posts and videos.
Wilmington NC
I will be doing this study solo
Pam
Hi Pam, if you would like to join a small group in Wilm, NC, email me @ [email protected]. We have 7 ladies now that will be meeting in my living room. We would love to have you join us.
Hi Kathy and Pam,
We have a small group meeting in each other’s homes in Carolina Beach/Kure Beach, NC. We had 9 ladies last night. Keep us posted on how your group progresses. We should get together at some point.
([email protected])
I am i Wilmington NC too!!!!! Looking for ladies to study with, God willing.
Hi Renee, email: [email protected]. Come & join our group.
Louisville, KY;
Flying Physically Solo – but working through it virtually with my mom who is a missionary in Costa Rica;
Also flying physically solo (I’m single), no children but I do have a little girl named Bella (my maltese).
My goal for this summer is to deepen my love for Christ, and find my fulfillment through His daily Presence in my life. I’m diving deeper!
Oh and one word for where I’m at: Longing
My group meets tonight but I’m the ‘leader’ and I was watching the video this morning and when she said one word that describes you right now, the first thing that popped in my head was was ‘wanting’. When I saw your ‘longing’ I thought, that’s a much better word for perhaps the same thing 🙂 Praying that God meets you where you are and your love for Him is deepened and fulfillment only found in Him! 🙂
Thanks for sharing!
Rebekah,
I’d like to know more about your group. I had planned to go solo until I saw you had a group in Tupelo.
Sallie, send me an email at [email protected] and I’ll fill you in! 🙂
Rebekah,
Please send alternate information to get in touch with you. I can’t access the account below.
[email protected]
Hello!! We are so excited to begin this Siesta study! I’m Jessica, and I have helped to put together a group of 13 very busy ladies. Most of us attend the Presque Isle Wesleyan church in Presque Isle Maine. We have not met yet, but will meet next week. We are not meeting often during this study, because of schedules and the need to be more relaxed over the summer. We plan to meet at a local restaurant for dessert, fellowship and discussion. We will be communicating through email. Some that can will be commenting on the blog and video as individuals. Thanks so much for offering another summer study! This is my first time participating, and I’m excited.
hi, i’m also doing the study myself. i’m excited about digging deeper into one of my favorite bible characters. i live in florida and would classify this period of my life as peaceful. God’s peace has overwhelmed me through so much chaos lately and i’m so thankful to Him!!
Amarillo, TX
I am doing this solo in one sense but also with one of my best friends from Lubbock, TX. We are keeping each other accountable over the distance (2 hours) and I’m actually going to visit tomorrow and we are going to watch the video together tomorrow.
Hi Brie…I have a group in Amarillo also. We started last night as well and will meet every other week. If you’d like to join us at any point to discuss face to face, let me know. We’d love to have you! [email protected] April
Austin, Solo, DRY is my word, Goal: to Keep my Focus on God this summer-
Judges 21:25 is an illustration of a directionless quality of life- I love the translation from the Message for Jeremiah 17:14- “God, Pick up the pieces and put me back together again.”
Thank you Beth for offering this study to enrich our long hot summer!
Kathy, thanks for sharing The Message version of the verse–I needed to hear that today!! Enjoy our summer study!
Hey Kathy in Austin, I would like to do this study but was wanting for some company in doing it. If you would like to join forces please let me know I don’t have the book but will get it!I am new to the area just moved here from Kansas in January.
Hi Kathy,
Just read your post and saw you were in Austin! Would you like to join our group? We have 6 right now but you would be welcome! Email me if you would like to: [email protected]
I, too, love the Message’s take on this verse. Thanks for sharing it!
Eden,Texas there are 11 of us and we will be a week behind ya’ll we are having VBS this week sowe will be having our first meeting June 29th at 6:00 pm…anyway our group range in ages of 16 to 60ish and I am looking foward to the way we will see how God’s word touches and changes us.I confess I started the homework for week 1 WOW!
I love the Book of Ruth I am so ready to get started as a group and to share how our group discussion went
I am from Belford, NJ and will be doing the study by myself. My season right now is one of blessing. Over 5 months ago I was operated on for cancer–a rare sarcoma in my right thigh. The healing has been very slow but I am coming out the other side. Praise God, He has been so wonderful to me, standing by me and keeping me in His perfect peace. What a “blessing”!!
We are a group of 4 gals meeting together in Indianapolis,, In
Participating solo from Austin, Texas. Wish I could participate in a group but my work schedule and outside commitments have me hopping this summer. SO glad this opportunity is available. I miss ladies bible study. Thank you Beth and Amanda!
Just listened to the video. One word to describe this season: scattered. Too much going on at work, too many other commitments, not enough quality time with my family. My goal for this summer is to slow down long enough to refocus my time and attention on my relationship with God and my family. I want this study to help me get back on track with daily Bible study – as in more than the 10 minutes I squeeze in most mornings to read a daily devotional and worry/pray about the day. I know that getting in the Word regularly will help me do a lot more praying and trusting and a lot less worrying.
St. Mary’s County, MD, solo
1. Solo.
2. Unsure.
3. Letting go/life changes.
4. Doing what I see fit ALWAYS hurts someone I love. My decisions made for myself are too self-motivated. I can’t trust my own heart, but I can trust my own GOD!
Melissa
Hi Melissa,
I am in Southern Calvert County going solo too. Maybe we can join together as study partners.
Tammy:
I would SO LOVE THAT! Let’s set a place/date! 🙂 E-mail me: [email protected]
Melissa
Hi Melissa,
“I can’t trust my own heart, but I can trust my own God!” Well said. I so needed to hear that today.
Patti
Thanks, Patti. I’m glad God spoke.
Thanks for the encouragement 🙂
Melissa
Our bible study is in Dallas, Ga, 5 women, we will be meeting on Thurs. nights. Most of us are empty nesters, but one is actually pregnant with a long awaited baby girl after years and years of infertility…Praise God!
I live in West GA., too. Solo, this is my first Siesta study and I am so looking forward to it. I have done so many of Beth’s studies-I always want to ask her, “How could you know?”, because I can relate to so much of her life experiences. Sometimes it helps to know someone else has felt this or been there.I am a Registered Nurse, in education now (definitely a God thing). I am very blessed-married 36 years to a wonderful man, 2 married children who have blessed us with 3 darling granddaughters, the newest, 7 mos. old, but miles away in distance, not in our hearts. So thankful for SKYPE that can reach to southern California! One word-anticipation-God spoke to me about this study before I ever opened the book-not what we want to do (considering some major changes in our life), but what and when He sees fit, it will happen.We just pray and wait.
Hi Brenda! My mother-in-law, also named Brenda, is new to Dallas and is longing for some fellowhsip of Christian ladies. I told her about your group and she was interested if ya’ll could sqeeze one more. Please email me [email protected]
Since we are still finishing up a Beth Moore study at church, I’m doing this solo. I’m in Carthage, MO.
Tammy, going solo, 47 married and live in N.C. My word -stressed.
Tammy, your comment grabbed me and wouldn’t let me go. You are loved, sweet girl! “Stressed” is a familiar state to me, too. Hang in there! So glad to see that you’ve committed to digging in His Word. I’ll be praying for you.
In HIS Love,
Anna
Flying solo on this Bible study adventure. I’am a fifty something married empty-nester from the Mississippi Gulf Coast! One word: INVISIBLE! The goal for the summer is to be saturated in Holy Writ and what better way to do that than through the book of Ruth! Blessings to all on the journey!
Hi SJ, I am from the Ms Gulf Coast also, Hancock County to be exact. I have a group meeting at my house Thurs from 7-8:30 PM. My prayer for you is that by the end of this study that you will no longer feel invisible but will have begun to bloom into a beautiful flower that shares its beautiful arouma of praise with all that God brings near you.
Hi everyone, My name is April. I live in Vermilion,OH. I’m married, 40s, mother of two. I’m doing the study solo(first one). One word to describe my life right now: Trust. My specific goal for this study is to know God and how to live for Him through His word. In reference to the verses, it is scary beyond words to think of living without the Lord and following Him through His word. I don’t know how people do that! I wouldn’t want to know. So looking forward to this study. Have a great day siestas!
Hi April in Ohio~ I’m praying for you this first week – that God will meet you on the pages of the study and the pages of Ruth (I, too, am a mother in her 40’s). May God so bless your week with Himself!
Warm in Alaska ~ Bless your heart, thank you for your prayers! I would be honored to keep you in my prayers as well. May you too be blessed with God Himself this week!
Blessings \o/
Hi – I’m Katharine from Tallahassee, FL. My one word to describe life right now would be stressful! I’m doing this study solo and looking forward to digging into the Word and drawing closer to my Lord!
Katharine – I’m in Tallahassee too. I planned to do the study solo, but would love to share it with someone. Email me if you’re interested: [email protected]
Karen and Katherine- I am from Tallahasseee, too! I just moved here a couple months ago and would love to meet over some great coffee and great studying of God’s Word for this study. My email is [email protected].
Livingston Parish, 4 of us; will meet on Thursdays at a coffee shop, but first meeting this Friday @ a restaurant. My friends, who are all very different, are joining me for this Bible Study; I will post more after our first meeting.
Spring Hill, TN. Going solo on this study. I would say I am in an overwhelming season. I am a wife, a mother, (I have a 22 month daughter I am pregnant due in December), and I am taking care of my 60 yr old mom who is in the beginning stages of Alzheimers. God is really teaching me to be joyful in my situation. Looking forward to this study!
Kristen – I am praying for you!!!
My 2 babies are 3 & 8 months and while I didn’t have to care for my mother, I still felt as though there was no way I could do it sometimes. He is faithful!
Fresno, CA; 16 of us; meeting at a home;
Our group is made up of women from all walks and seasons of life, some new to the faith and have never done a Bible Study before, others have spent a lot of time in the Word.
The main part of our discussion was getting to know each other. We took a chunk of time to do this, longer than we anticipated, but sensed that was exactly what the Lord would have us do this time. Our main question was, in the last decade, what has been your life journey in three words? Naomi’s may have been something like-Famine, loss, and foreigner, from Ruth 1:3-4. It was AMAZING to hear stories in three words, such as: brokenness, gratefulness, and peace.
We meet on Monday nights because that is the night that is the night my co leader and I could do it.
What a joy to serve the Lord by loving people and pointing each to Him!
Omaha, NE. 4 of us. Scooters Coffee Shop. We are 4 moms and good friends. We plan on meeting next Wednesday (this week didn’t work for any of us). I am so completely thrilled to be doing this study and getting to be part of a community of women who are studying together.
On a side note, I wanted to let Beth know how much her studies and ministry have impacted my life, and the life of my sister. We were privileged to attend the Deeper Still Conference in Denver two weeks ago. It was amazing and I would go again tomorrow. Thank you Mama Beth for all that you do and all the lives that the Lord has allowed you to touch.
Louisville, Nebraska, 9 of us. Hi, Jessica in Omaha! How fun to do this study at a Scooters. :.)
We are meeting on Monday nights at each of our homes. We are all moms about the same age, but our kids are varied. This is our first Siesta and we’re looking forward to the study.
Hi Jessica!
My beautiful friend Kim and I are doing the Ruth Bible study with the rest of you *siestas*, but just the two of us in our group! What Scooters do you meet at? She and I were also thinking of doing a Scooters meeting place!
We are 2 Moms in Blair, with a little bit of a late start, but are ready to really dig into this study and get caught up! Would love to maybe link up with your group to dig into His wonderful Word!
Gainesville Georgia, just me,stay at home grandma with a 5 yr old that God has blessed me with-
Is the 5 yr old your grand daughter or daughter? I am 49YO SAHM with a 5 yr old daughter. I also have 2 grown children that live in TX and I am a grandmother! My husband is a pastor and our lives are very busy. Sometimes I feel that I cannot keep up!
I am going solo with this study in Southern California. Am in my 40’s, single, in a career. One word to describe this season: silent. Goal for the study: life. The reason we can’t do as we see fit is answered in Jer. 17:9 – our hearts are deceitful above all things and beyond cure. We can’t trust what we want to do or how we feel all too often because it could be based on a lie. It must all be filtered through the Word of God because as verse 7 says, “But blessed is the (wo)man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in Him. (S)He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” Lord, please let all of us be like this tree and bath us in Your living water as we study your Word this summer. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Gretchen, love your words, you are so right on about our hearts! I too am going solo, and am anxious to learn as much as possible from this study.
Candace
Thank you, Candace. I’ll be praying specifically for you by name that the Lord would hear and answer the cry of your heart even beyond anything you could ask or think! Blessings to you, Gretchen
Gretchen, although born and raised in SC(Torrance and then OC), I am now in Colorado Springs…I will pray for you too! I am so excited about this study, God is doing something amazing.
Gretchen,
that is lovely! Thank you….
Sharoni
Hey Gretchen,
I’m also in Southern California, (San Diego), doing the study solo. Married, with grown children (my daughter is in DC, my son is out of college, here at home) Would love to do the study with one other person, (emailing and connecting online) would you be interested? The season of my life can best be described as “exhausted”.
Seeing myself as vulnerable because I’m exhausted and need to be refreshed in my spirit, soul and body. bless you, Pam in San Diego
Hi, Pam,
I’m actually in Ventura Country, but would love to connect. My email is [email protected].
Blessings,
Gretchen
Pam,
I live in San Diego and am doing this solo. Where do you live? I am in the East County area. I would love to connect and do this with someone.
Portia
Gretchen, I am 40, single, going solo and in Socal (South Orange County). Are you close? Maybe we can meet on one of the weeks.
: )
Christian
Hi, Christian,
I’m in Ventura County, but would love to meet up! You can send my an email at [email protected].
Blessings,
Gretchen
Christian:
I am in S. Orange County too…Mission Viejo,CA. Where are you? Please feel free to email me.
Hi
I am in Orange, Ca. Are you doing it solo? Maybe we could meet up if anyone is interested? my email is [email protected]
Hi
I am in my late 40’s and in Orange, Ca. Maybe we could all meet up?
Hi, This is my first Siesta bible study. I’m going solo and my goal is to grow closer to God. The word in my life right now is “seeking”. I want to know Him more. Michigan
Jo, I am in Grand Rapids, Michigan and am going solo at this point as well. Are you near me? Would you be interested in meeting for coffee??
Hilary
Hilary,
I have a small group meeting on the NE Side Of Grand Rapids, If you would like to Join us! Please email me
!! [email protected] We would love to have you join us!
Five of us meeting in Holland. If you live anywhere near us, please come join us! We’d love to meet another new member as only one (me!) in our group knows everyone so we’re making a lot of new friends this summer.
Do you know anyone in Muskegon doing the study? I am here for a month, would love to connect!
Temporarily living in mountains of East Tn so going solo on this one. Have beautiful group of ladies in Nashville that I have been doing group studies with(mostly yours Beth) for over 3 years. My current situation in one word – patience! My goal is to stay in His Word. Just finished reading “So Long Insecurity” and the beautiful “Whispers of Hope” journey. Looking forward to being here every other Tuesday….I’ve never posted on here before!
Elaine, I’m in Jefferson City, TN- are you close by? If you are and want to connect, email me at [email protected]
I’m in Erwin….Tri City area for a while.
Are you talking Smoky Mountains? We’re a group meeting in Maryville on Thursday evenings – let me know if you’d like to join us in two weeks!
Thanks for the invite Missy June but I’m in Erwin (Unaka Mountains).
I, too, am doing the study solo because of travel and other commitments this summer. I am 48 years old, married, 4 college/grown kids, in Mansfield, TX.
The one word I would use to describe my life right now is “waiting” because I am waiting to see what the Lord would lead me to next in this new phase of my life.
I think everyone doing what is right in his/her own eyes leads to confusion and chaos. It is pretty much the way the world is today. But living life according to the Lord’s word and his standards is much less confusing, anxiety producing, and peaceful!
Ready to see what God has in store for this study!
In His Grip,
Kathy W
Hey,
I’m going solo in Columbus, GA. One word to summarize is really a phrase – chemo for breast cancer. God is faithful and I trust Him.
Another one checking in solo for Columbus, GA and simply can’t wait to get started.
Mrs. Ward, I love you to pieces and I’m praying for you! 🙂
~Amanda
Amanda, I love you, too…so much that I’m insisting you d-r-o-p that MRS. WARD thing! : ) Keep up those prayers.
I am praying for you Amy. God is Faithful! Love you my sister in GA.
Thank you Stormy! : )
Hey I am a breast cancer sista. Praying for you and sending you hugs!!!
Amy… I’m an Alabama neighbor! I will be praying for you too! May He bless your socks off in miraculous ways, so that everyone around you will be awed by your Savior!
I am sorry I am commenting so late (even though I started last week with the others :)! Sadly, I am going solo this summer, but I am a big girl and look forward to the accountability of the Siestas! I live in Charlotte, NC with my loving husband and five children.
My word for this season is Dedicated…to my God, my husband, my children, my family, my church, my friends, and to homeschooling. I am dedicated to all of these things, but know I can stand to improve in all these areas and desperately need God’s help!
Thoughts on Judges…doing right in his own eyes would be so bad as there would be no more moral code; injustice and selfishness would abound! Thoughts on Jeremiah…Trusting in the Lord brings blessing. In the words of the philosopher Travis Cottrell (smile big here :)), “Obedience brings blessing, disobedience brings consequence.”
Thank you for doing this Beth, Amanda, Melissa, & LPM gang!
1. Jan – I live in middle Georgia on a farm, married 33 years, 2 grown sons who are both married to sweet girls, 3 grandblessings; I am a minister’s wife and I also work full-time for our public school system as an administrative assistant.
2. 1 word: Abiding
3. I’m going solo on purpose with my goal of being FOCUSED to FINISH so my life will be more FRUITFUL as I attempt to live out my FAITH by showing more love to my FAMILY and FRIENDS. (fa la la la la) 🙂
4. The very first study I ever did as a young believer was the book of Judges, and I remember this phrase so well, “and the people did what was right in their own eyes.” This verse contrasts the JOY and security of the blessed who trust in the Lord seen in the Jeremiah 17 passage.
Our only hope is in Him, not what we think. Jeremiah 17:10 is so awesome – The Lord searches the heart and tests the mind – to give every man according to his ways and the fruit of his doings. That’s enough right there to make me want me to ABIDE in Him. I want to be in the Advanced Placement and Honors program with Jesus! To do what He wants me to do – seeking to walk in Him and not what is right in my own eyes. An obedient daughter of the Most High.
Amen. I’m in.
GJ
Couldn’t have said it better myself! I’m willing to go through all the tutoring I can to get me there! 🙂
Georgia Jan,
I’ve heard your name before from Beth. I live in Watkvinsville but grew up in Eastman and went to college in Macon…middle GA. It’s fun to connect with other Siestas.
Mandy
Tiffany M from Nashville, TN, married, one child. Looking forward to hearing from our “home girl” Kelly!
Studying alone (although I did invite 2 others to study with me!)
My one word to describe this season of life is “reliant” (on Christ alone.) Yeah-I know that’s really 4 words.
My goal for the summer to remain in His word with joy, expectation and excitement. I always learn something new no matter how many times I’ve read the words. Praise His Name!
Jaime
Married w/teens
30s
Going solo
Fort Collins, CO
I missed out on last summers bible study and am still kicking myself about it. I’m so glad to be back.
My one word for this season in my life is: cautious expectation (I know that’s two, I cheated)
I would like to get rid of the cautious all together and move deeper into faith and trust in God and His goodness.
It’s been a season of new revelations following a hard and bitter season of threshing and sifting.
My goal this summer is to grow in Love and knowledge of Christ. And learn to trust Him more.
Jaimie,
I am hosting this Bible Study with other ladies on my blog. http://www.dawnscottagecorner.blogspot
Please feel free to join us every other Tuesday at 7:00 PM CST. We chat through the comments section.
Have a Blessed evening,
Dawn
Jaime, I’m meeting with another friend here in Fort Collins to do the study. If you’d like to meet with us you’re welcome to. My email is [email protected]
Jaime, “cautious expectation” is a perfect sumamtion for my season as well! I’ve been sitting here thinking about what I would say and read your post. I, too, have just come out of a hard & bitter season of sifting (7 months of unemployment). I’m so thankful that it’s over and praise God for a job that far exceeded my expectations but I’m still being very cautious in how I approach life. I hear God asking me “Why don’t you fully trust me yet?! I’ve never let you down!”. I’m trying to overcome that, but it’s sooooo scary! But it’s really nice to see that I’m not alone in this!
Thanks so much!
Robin M.
MS, I am doing it solo. Season: Restore.
May the Lord bless this Siesta Bible study.
If you’re in Northeast Mississippi, you are more than welcome to join our study! 🙂 Just go and comment on my blog and we’ll figure something out 🙂
Rebekah, I was born and raised in Ripley! Living in Georgia now.
I think once a Northeast MS girl, always a NEMS girl 🙂 Ha! Although, I didn’t move to Fulton until I was 13, but…I’ll still claim it as home 🙂
Hi, Evelyn… my sister-in-law was born and raised in Ripley, too! Do you know Ranae Hill Caldwell? Small world! 🙂
Hello everyone! I’ll be doing this Bible Study solo in Fruitland Park, FL. I feel like I am finally coming off a roller coaster with where my life has been over the last 8 months. I moved back down to FL because my house didn’t sell, had to endure joblessness for a bit, rough times financially, and a whole lot of tears sprinkled on top. My one word right now is HUNGER – for the Word, for God, for His Presence, everything. I miss Him!!
I am so excited to be a part of your study!
1. I am from Northeastern Kentucky, am 32, married to a wonderful Christian man, and have two children. I have a work from home business. I have had a alot of medical problems lately and have a minor surgery tomorrow and would appreciate your prayers.
2. The one word that describes this season in my life is awaiting. I chose this word because God has done SO MANY wonderful things for our family in the last year or so, and amidst other situations, we are now in a season where my husband, after over 20 years of employment at the same location, is out of work and I am awaiting (waiting with expectation) to see what God does next. Whatever it will be, we can trust it is for our good.
3. My goal for this study is to gain a closer, more passionate walk with the Lord.
4. It was dangerous to “do that which was right in his own eyes” (Judges 21:25) because this choice takes you out of God’s will, away from His guidance, and robs you of blessings He may have otherwise had for you.
Forgot to say I am going solo!
West Lakeland, MN.
I will be doing this study solo. I am new to the Blog, but have been reading it for several weeks. I’m so happy to be here.
I am in SE MN near Rochester. If you want someone nearby (well little over an hour away) to talk with about the study, let me know.
Thanks Tara, I’m happy to do that! I’m picking up my study book today! Can’t wait to get started.
Hi Jody,
Email me if you want to meet or just chat, my email is [email protected]
I will be doing the study solo also.
Thank you abundantly for making this available.
I lift you, Amanda, & Melissa up in prayer daily.
God Bless y’all!
I’m doing this study solo as well- getting my feet wet with this sort of situation (on line study).
Sonoma County, CA
Georgia, just me, I am looking forward to this study. Help me pray along with the others and the soloist, that we can become more focused on what God has in store for us and for wonderful women that can guide us on this journey.
If I had one word to describe my life I think it would be confussion. I have alot of stuff going on in my life that are really dragging me down and I am trying to keep my head up.
I am here if anyone needs to talk to someone, hoping to make some new friends through this study. I am a single mom, with 2 teenagers that live in another town with there father. I have been unemployed for a year now and I am attempting to go back to school full time. But plan for now to try to put all that aside and focus on God and this study.
Talk to all of you soon and will be praying for everyone involved in this study.
God bless
I am praying for you Kristan!
Hi. I am doing this solo. I am a leader of 2 women’s Bible studies at my church, but we have taken the summer off. I have never been too up for an online study, but my middle name is Ruth. With a nudging of the Holy Spirit, here I am.I am an anxious student, so I have already done the first week’s homework, and have made myself stop! Kelly has already taught me much about sustained obedience. Looking forward to more.Blessings to you for all you do!
My middle name is Ruth also. After my maternal grandfather’s mother. 🙂
Louisiana, solo (possibly with one friend).
One word description–Contemplative
Goal–To stay focused on truth
Judges/Jeremiah thoughts–Living according to our own desires is ultimately destructive and can never truly satisfy. It will end up leading us straight into sin. We cannot trust our own motives. Each human is led astray by his/her own sinful desires. I need to be planted near the spring of living water! I want to be fruitful even in a season of drought because I have drawn near to the One who truly satisfies.