The day has finally arrived! Wooooohooooo! Let’s get into the Scriptures, Girls! This is our official launch where you will officially register as participants in our summer Bible study but here’s the important part: YOU WILL SIGN IN AFTER YOU AND YOUR GROUP VIEW THIS VIDEO AND HAVE YOUR DISCUSSION TIME. (If you’re going solo, you’ll view it by yourself, of course, and answer the questions succinctly in your comment as your way of discussing the subject matter.)
Please read the following instructions carefully:
If you are participating in a small group (even on line), choose a name for it in your first gathering. It does not need to be clever although you’re welcome to do it that way. It can be as simple as “Greensboro Summer Siestas.” Mine will be “The LPM Village” because I’ll be going through it with my in-house staff and we call our merry band of sisters the Village. You will use your group name every time you leave a comment on Bible study day.
After watching the video and participating in the discussion time with your small group, appoint ONE representative from your group to sign in through a comment to this post. You’re welcome to appoint a different representative each week that we meet. The main idea is to make sure only one person signs in for your group.
This is the way your group representative will sign in:
City, State; Name of group, Number in group. *A brief summary about your group time.
(*This might convey something interesting that came up in your time together or the question that motivated the most discussion. It’s wide open. Just give us a succinct report on your time in small group. Remember to keep them short and specific so that we can read as many as possible!)
Mine would look something like this:
Houston, Texas; The LPM Village, 12. Summary: We talked most about the challenges we have this summer and specific ways we each need God to “keep steady our steps.” (Then I’d give a couple of examples that came up in our discussion time. Get the idea?)
Sisters going solo: you will sign in individually and answer the questions very briefly in your comment. (You are welcome to limit your answers to the ones that resonate most to you.) If I were going solo, mine might look like this:
Houston, Texas; Beth Moore (you can just use your first name if you prefer). Questions 5 and 6 resonated most with me because…
NOW! You are good to go. Just watch the video and proceed according to the instructions I’ll give you within it. As you’ll see below, I will always put the instructions in print in case you’re unable to view the video or if, for any reason, it malfunctions. Keep in mind that you don’t need to read what follows unless you can’t watch the video.
Written instructions:
Today in small group time, read Psalm 119:129-135 together. If you have access to several translations, read it first in a formal translation – ESV, NAS, NKJ, NIV, etc – and, second, just for the richness of it, a modern translation like The Message or the New Living Translation. You know I love The NET Bible so that’s another option.
1. List every term the psalmist uses for God’s communication/revelation to man. (Example: V.129 ESV – “testimonies”)
2. Psalm 119:129 says, “Your testimonies are wonderful: therefore my soul keeps them.” Each of you (as time allows) share a specific way that you’ve come to know personally that God’s testimonies are “wonderful.” If you don’t have a newcomer to the Bible in your group, imagine that you do. Let your answer help explain to her why YOUR soul desires to keep God’s testimonies and why she should even consider it.
3. Psalm 119:132 says “Turn to me and be gracious to me, as is Your way with those who love Your name.” If you have placed your faith in God through Jesus Christ, you have demonstrated one titanic way of “loving His name.” Discuss the importance of trusting that God’s “way” is to deal with His children graciously. Talk about whether you tend to expect God to be gracious to you or indifferent or harsh and condemning. If you tend toward the latter, would you be willing this summer to seek God with the grateful expectation of His graciousness toward you.
4. Psalm 119:133a says, “Keep steady my steps according to Your promise.” What specific challenges are before you this summer that could cause you to really need God to “steady your steps”?
5. Psalm 119:133b says, “Let no iniquity get dominion over me.” THAT, Beloved, is a prayer that could have huge impact in our lives. If you are willing, share a particular tendency of your flesh that you’re really praying will not get the best of you this summer. (By all means, get personal as the Spirit leads but stop short of really graphic specifics. Give people the idea without the mental images.)
6. Psalm 119:134 says, “Redeem me from man’s oppression, that I may keep Your precepts.” Look up several definitions of “oppression” and discuss the vital differences between oppression and authority. How can they be confused? Once we know for certain we’re not just resisting authority but we are genuinely experiencing oppression, realize that God’s will is to REDEEM us from it. Pray fervently for Him to do so. He is perfectly capable of redeeming us from oppression while redeeming the relationship.
7. According to Psalm 119:135, conclude by asking God with a full heart of faith to make His face shine upon you, His servant, this summer and to TEACH you vividly through the Book of Nehemiah.
8. Sometime today, write Psalm 119:129-135 on a note card and keep it as your prayer for our Siesta Summer Bible Study. (After the video was already made, it occurred to me that I should have suggested we all write this segment on the inside of the front cover of our Nehemiah workbooks so, if I caught you in time, do that instead of a note card. That way it will serve as a Scriptural dedication of sorts for our summer experience.)
Have Weeks 1 and 2 of your homework done by Tuesday, July 10th and we’ll have our next Mini-Session then and your group discussion.
I love you guys so much! Isn’t it fabulous to be back together again in God’s Word??
We’ll meet in two weeks! If you’re meeting over a meal, try to fix Lauri’s Beef Enchiladas on p.32 and Mom’s ginger snaps on p.33.
(Remember! Comments only after your group time!)
Lindale, Texas ~ 4 ~ Heidi, Ann, Melita, and Cheryl (still working on a name for our group…)
For us the truth that most resonated with our souls was Ps. 119:132 that speaks of God’s mercy and love and how He always deals with us graciously. We realized that we believe that and acknowledge that in our heads and with our mouths, but at times in our innermost place we might question that or lean toward thinking He only does so if we are faithful, disciplined, consistent,etc. in our walk with Him. We collectively decided to seek God this summer with a grateful expectation of His graciousness and mercy towards us!
Magnolia, NC, solo: one thing that I got from this session is that God has been so gracious to me no matter how often and how big of a sin I have committed. All sins mean the same to Him, except for blasphemy of the Lord, and God has always forgiven me and loved me with open arms. One way I can prove that is he has blessed me with the love of my life, a great job to be able to support myself and a family in the future and he has given me the feeling of happiness, even if I sometimes feel like I don’t deserve it. I hope this bible study will help me grow closer to God and help me with my daily relationships with my family, boyfriend, friends and even strangers.
Burnsville, NC; Cristen; Part of an online group but will mostly be solo. Questions #4 and #6 are the ones that resonated with me the most. I think that is mostly because I’m trying to make some very big life changes. I want to become healthier and work on my financial situation. I just want to be with Him more and walk this path with Him.
Kelly
Daphne, AL
flying solo
the question that resonates with me is number 5. There are things I just need the Lord to take dominion over and keep me from succumbing to.
Mo, IL, and IN
Three Bible Study Bubbies 3
We are three ladies who met online studying God’s word together. I am the oldest of three, two of us have met at LPL KC. Funny thing was the thrid was there too.
We e-mail about how we would like God “to keep steady our steps” How we would like a closer realtionship with our Lord. To learn more and more about Him through His people. To learn to become prayer warriors to PRAISE HIM BETTER. We also would like to reflect on God’s glory to help us fight the adversary.
Orlando, FL; Angel S.; I’m doing this study alone for I am still in the middle of your study on James and while I feel I can handle two studies for 3 weeks, I don’t feel I can make time for two small groups. I didn’t intend to do the study on Nehemiah when I first got the email on this since it overlapped with my James study but God had a different plan.
I walked into the bookstore and prayed,”God, if there’s something you want me to read, please show me.” In the first aisle I went to, this was the first book that I saw. I recognized the book from your email, but I had already decided not to do the study. I went ahead and picked up the book just to see what it was about. The first thing I read was “What makes you weep? I was somewhere in the Amazon rainforest…” My answer to that was, “Really, God? Are you serious?”
I just returned from my first mission trip to the Amazon on June 17th. On that trip God spoke to my heart about serving and he has reiterated His message through the James study and through recent sermons at my church. I have it on my heart that He is calling me to serve in some way. The irony is that on my first day back to work after the trip I was lamenting the fact that I had to do my mundane job instead of going to two worship services a day and helping people all day like we did in Brazil. I had a networking luncheon to go to that day. While I was there I saw an acquaintance and started telling him about my trip and sharing my excitement about helping and serving others. It turns out he works for a large hospital Foundation and now he wants to introduce me to the woman that coordinates their medical mission trips. He thinks that with my networking abilities, background, and passion for God & missions that I would make a great addition to their team. He is introducing us on July 17th and I’m doing a lot of praying to see if this is God’s plan for me. Does he want me to leave my safe & secure job that I’m relatively happy in and make good money at to be a fundraiser for Missions? I am wrestling with this idea when I flip to the back of the book and it says, ” Nehemiah will inspire you to listen to what God has put in your heart to do.” As soon as I read that I said, “Ok God, I get it. I guess I’m doing two bible studies!”
I was so eager to learn that I went to a coffee shop before my next appointment and started reading. I read, ” I was that odd blend of utterly thankful while feeling as if a significant piece was missing from the scene that if found, would give this remarkable landscape its fuller and truer meaning.” My heart screamed,”That’s Me!!” I am thankful. I am happy but I know something’s missing. I’ve been feeling it for some time now. I know God wants me to serve. Could this be what’s missing?
I did the homework for Day 1 in the coffee shop using my Bible app on my iphone for reference. Tht night when I got home I was still feeling anxious to see what God has in store for me to learn, so I started on Day 2. Day 2 said to turn to Nehemiah 1:5. I got out my Bible and turned to Nehemiah. It turned out I already had Nehemiah 1:5 highlighted in my bible and I had written in the margin beside the verse. It said, “Brazil Sermon Day 4. Pastor said Nehemiah was his role model in life. Read about Nehemiah.” I was stunned! I had gone into that bookstore asking God to show me what He wanted me to read. The very first book that caught my eye was this one and it hit me with Brazil, listening to what God has in your heart, and being thankful but feeling like something’s missing. I didn’t even look at another book at the store and thats not like me. I’m usually not that decisive. Then it turns out that while I was in Brazil I wrote, “Read about Nehemiah!” I didn’t recall writing that and I just purchased and started a study guide on Nehemiah!
I love when God makes things so clear! Obviously, He wants me to learn about Nehemiah. If that’s what He wants, that’s what I’m going to do. 🙂 Thank you for putting this study together at this time. I can’t wait to see what I’m going to learn and where this is going to lead me!
Concord,CA; Sylvie Moisoff. Question #4 caused me to think – The challenges for this summer is adjusting to retirement – getting my bearings without working fulltime any longer and also starting as faith community nurse at my church. Seeking God’s direction is how many hours I will give to this volunteer ministry as well as hearing God’s voice in how to progress. Also, #7) – also will be praying for a heart of faith in this new ministry and that God will make His face shine on me and teach me thru Nehemiah this summer. Finally, question #5: The iniquity and oppression is worry and anxiety about my daughter who suffers from depression/anxiety as well as chronic pain condition. She is 33 yrs old. This becomes an oppresion from the enemy too easily for me. I do not want this inquity of worry and anxiety to have dominion over me. Blessings to all of you!
Birmingham, Alabama; First Time Mamas, 2. We were roommates in college and now the Lord has brought us both to Birmingham, with our husbands, for such a time as this. We are “first time mamas” and due with baby boys…ten days apart this Summer! Our prayer is for God to “steady our steps” as we enter into this new season, and as we put ALL our trust in HIM in these coming weeks with all the unknowns…and for the rest of our lives as we seek HIM first and foremost! So thankful to be studying the WORD together and love how Psalm 119:129 in The Message says, “Every word you give me is a miracle word — how could I help but obey?”
Locust Grove GA
there are 4 of us doing it “together” but on our own!
I’m studying solo and can’t wait to learn!
Bridgeport, West Virginia Ceffie Haught This summer I will concentrate on being released from the oppression of worry. I want to enjoy the summer with my grandchildren, children, husband and mother rather than worry about all the things that can happen, or the things that need to get done.
Eau Claire, WI. C & E, two attending.
We discussed #5 quite a bit… About freedom from guilt that has had some dominion over us – as moms of young kids, wives, and as believers. We want the expectation of his graciousness to overwhelm that guilt!
My name is Denise and I am from Alberta Canada! I am doing this study solo and am really excited about it! All the questions were great and encouraged sincere thought.. Questions 4 and 5 spoke to me and is my prayer, “oh, Lord…steady my steps (and my heart, mind and soul) on your promises. Let no sin rule over me”.
(going solo) I’m having a summer “off” and feel God pulling me towards Him….what does he want me to hear/see/taste/feel…His word to me….I know He’s going to reveal himself to me in the pages of Nehemiah…..I’me ready…
Paola, Pinellas Park, FL
I am going solo, this will be my first online BS 🙂
Question #4 spoke to me, my challenge is to have a better attitude and a heart of service as I travel with my husband to different outreach activities during the summer. NOT grumbling or complaining about little things. I need a humble heart closer to the heart of Jesus to feel like he feels for the ones that don’t know him, and kindness towards my brothers and sisters traveling with us.
Bellingham, WA; Tree Farm Lane Ladies, 4. Each member of our group has a deep desire to keep God’s testimonies. We shared how he has personally made Himself known to each one of us.
Solo but with others involved on the blog, I feel a connection. Pondering on oppression vs authority. As vs 130 says, God will unfold His Words and give me light and understanding. Thankful!!
Jeannie, Vero Beach, Fl, going solo since I’m traveling this summer! Trying to stay grounded in the Word while facing numerous challenges ahead.
Johnnie, Wake Forest, NC–going solo. Questions 2 and 3 resonate with me the most.
#2–God has shown grace and mercy to me over and over — He is wonderfully good all the time. He guides me in the way I should go. My life is so much richer and fuller b/c I follow His way. He gives peace and blessing through obedience to His word.
I love the way the NLT (No wonder I obey them!) and Message (How could I help but obey?) state what my response to God and His word should be—God is so loving and gracious, how can I help but love Him in return??
#3–His way; His character—God loves b/c He is love; God is merciful b/c He is mercy…that’s just who He is!!
God in His sovereignty **always, always, always** has our best interest at heart. I have learned through experience over the years and through studying His word He will never let me down or forsake me. I have no doubt in God’s faithfulness through this study of Nehemiah that He is there for me just as He was for the Israelites so long ago…no matter the circumstance.
Barb,Evansville, In, 1, but a friend may join in 2 weeks, I never considered myself oppressed but now I see it in a different light and I’m trusting God for freedom.
Jill, Bozeman , Solo, I am traveling and moving this summer so this study is just perfect for me.
Medina, Ohio myself and my Lord taking this Nehemiah journey together.
I was so encouraged and blessed seeing and writing down how God’s testimonies are so real to me. I praise the Lord that His way is to be gracious. Also along with being gracious, He is firm, gentle, merciful and just. I am so thankful for that. Knowing that God is faithful and true is something that we can certainly stand on and trust.
My prayer is that I would walk (steady my walk) and do according to Gods plan. That I would remain sensitive to His voice, attentive to His word so that I may continue to apply His principles to my life and live them out everyday.
Let no iniquity have dominion (rule over, stomping grounds) over me…anger, regret, self pity.
I also am praying that the iniquity will not oppress me.
Jesus , make Your precious Holy face shine upon us as we study Nehemiah. In Jesus Name!
Studying alone this summer in Spartanburg, SC. Expecting God to be gracious and to unfold His words and give me light!
Houston, TX – going solo. SO excited to pursue this study and to see what Abba Father reveals through the Word and through this study.
Questions 4 and 5 grabbed me. I am praying for “steady steps” as I seek to understand and pray against the stronghold of sin the Enemy has trapped our middle son causing to turn from the Precepts he has known from an early age. I am looking expectantly for the revelations God has for me as the Enemy is camped around not only our son, but all of the family.
Byram,Mississippi ~ Stephanie solo with God as my co-pilot. I will go where He Leads. He has got it all mapped out. Number 3 and 7. Loving to serve Jesus.
Liverpool, NY: Glennifer Mosher I am going solo this time. I have led a Bible Study in my home for two years now. This one is just for me to remember to trust His loving promises and to let no iniquity to have dominion over me! Really looking forward to be part of the ‘Siesta Sisterhood.’
Wildomar, CA; Summer Starbucks Sisters, 5. We talked most about God’s gracioiousness to us and the difference between oppression and authority. We discussed how we are worthy of God’s graciousness and that he loves us regardless of our past. In the oppression vs. authority discussion we spoke about the view some non-believers may have of Christianity and how our behavior and testimony can work to change those incorrect opinions.
(It’s so difficult to summerize our meeting, we spoke about so much more. One thing we kept saying was how thankful we are for our friendships and for this study giving is the opportunity to meet throughout the summer. Thank you LPM!)
Houston, Texas Allison Ashton.
3 and 5 resonate for me: Psalm 119:132 says “Turn to me and be gracious to me because I need for Him to turn to me and be gracious “as thou usest to do” And 5! “Let not any iniquity have dominion over me” That is a killer or does not have to be one. Fear dominates and so does pride in some of the situations I am facing at my job. I believe God’s power is there and only by faith do I understand this but not as a personal place in me. I am seeking Him as best as I can now and through this study. I might be able to have another friend join in before the we discuss the first assignment.
Sue Sue and Jesus,
Bainbridge, Ga.
Needing GOD’S wisdom and discernment that would lead to obedience in my life.
Agape Girls In The Word, Oxford, PA
There are 5 in our little group so far. We did spend a fair amount of time discussing our need to stay in the Word over the summer and how we have such a hard time doing it without the help of a good Bible study group! We also discussed the challenges we’re facing in which we desperately need God to steady our steps! It’s quite a list – waiting on international and local adoptions, overwhelming church ministry involvement, newborn babies, raising foster twins, health challenges, submission to the Lord’s plans, etc etc. We’re looking forward to praying and sharing together!
The Journey Continues ~ With “Heaven Bound” Blessings,
🙂 Los Osos, California; KIM :)THE SIESTA SIDE-KICK, Solo.
Summary: Quiet moments alone with GOD,
Bible,Book of Nehemiah,Tea & Siesta sharing.
Questions 2 & 4 helped me to realize that for human connection with God to be truly meaningful, it must be genuinely personal. God is a perfect gentleman. He doesn’t force anyone to have a relationship with Him.
Beth, Travis & LPL ~
You are ALL a blessing to the village of CHRIST JESUS!! Thank you for GOING TO COLORADO to BLESS THE VICTIMS AND THOSE WHO PUT THEIR LIVES ON THE LINE TO FIGHT THE BLAZE.
GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU & GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!!!
Trussville, AL; I’mma Shine; 4. Our group is made up of three high school juniors and their former dance coach. We have been studying the Word together regularly for the past two years, and we are so excited about the Nehemiah study and participating in our first Siesta Summer Bible Study.
The verse that resonated most with us this week was Psalm 119:133. We all agreed that we could use a little extra “steadying” in His Word during the summer months when the lack of a routine makes it all to easy to either grow lazy or busy ourselves with unimportant things. We are thankful for this study as a way to help us stay grounded in His Word and be challenged to serve others during the summer break.
I am planning to get this study and do it myself and discussing with my friend online.
Alexander City, AL; There are 18 signed up for the study, but 14 were there this past Tuesday. We are calling ourselves the “Chapel Chicks” because we are meeting in the chapel of the church. We spent the most time on question 5 about the tendencies of the flesh that tend to get the best of us this summer. Many of us struggle with the lack of schedules, etc. and how Satan tries to distract us from accomplishing what we need to. It’s going to be yet another great study! Thanks, Beth, for keeping us in the Word!
Lexington, KY, Cyndi D, going solo, wish I had friends in this town to do this with as I would have before I moved. Question 6 resonated with me as I watch my daughter struggling to break free from oppression that has bound her for several months.
Spokane, WA. Kim: Question 4 & 7 have resonated most with me because my husband and I just sold our home (after 2 long years on the market) and we have not found a home yet to move our family into (we have 4 daughters 10 and under). I know God has a plan, but I am sure over these next few months I will need Him to steady me.
Neoga, IL, “Ladies in the Word”, 8
We talked the most about how God’s testimonies are so wonderful, and how we want to truly believe Him and seek Him through His Word. We’re thrilled to be together as a new group this summer with ladies of many different generations and life walks! We’ve all got our “stuff” to deal with this summer, and we’re relying on one another, praying together, and seeking to know Jesus more and more every day.
Pensacola, FL, solo siesta. Questions 4&5 resonated most with me. Hoping the Lord will open my ears and heart to this Bible Study.
Rochester, NH; 12 of us are “Nehi to Jesus”, meeting online through our facebook accountability group: We camped on question #4 about what specific challenges are before you this summer that could cause you to really need God to “steady your steps”? A couple of our responses were:
having a house full of kids and company 24/7 for the next month will distract me immensely – stress me – and keep me from setting that time aside for the Lord in prayer and study
I know that this is going to be a busy summer with work, family, and school. I need God to help steady my steps with time management and patience, as well as guidance to do His will instead of my own.
Based on our launch survey, the two biggest reasons why this group of ladies joined in were: I just like the company of friends studying the same thing…and I never know where to start in my Bible reading/study…
Cabot, AR, Kim, group of 9.
We met on Tuesday evening, enjoyed a meal together and then dove headfirst into Beth’s video and her questions. In our group, we run the gamut from teenager to grandmother. Some of us know each other well, some of us we met for the first time Tuesday. We even have one young lady who will join us by speakerphone as we meet. Kinda cool to see such a random group of God’s women joining together to study His word.
I can’t help but know that God placed each one of us there for a reason. By the evening’s end, we had shared stories and tears, offered affirmation and encouragement. We may have even found a new ministry in our church!! But I feel safe in saying that we all left with much more than we brought.
Rochester, NH; 12 of us are “Nehi to Jesus”, meeting online through our facebook accountability group: We camped on question #4 about what specific challenges are before you this summer that could cause you to really need God to “steady your steps”? A couple of our responses were:
having a house full of kids and company 24/7 for the next month will distract me immensely – stress me – and keep me from setting that time aside for the Lord in prayer and study
I know that this is going to be a busy summer with work, family, and school. I need God to help steady my steps with time management and patience, as well as guidance to do His will instead of my own.
Based on our launch survey, the two biggest reasons why this group of ladies joined in were: I just like the company of friends studying the same thing…and I never know where to start in my Bible reading/study…
Already enjoying this study – a summer study doesn’t mean a ‘fluff’ study and I love that!!!
Concord,CA. My sister, Kriss R, in Chesapeake, VA, is joining me and our group is called “The Storm Sisters.” We will meet to discuss questions via phone.
Kings Mountain, NC; Back Porch Believers; 5
A little about our group- We have been meeting on Thursday evenings for a couple of years. Often we sit on our friends delightful screened-in back porch (hence our name) sorting out all kinds of life situations. This is our first time blogging with Beth and we are very excited.
Summary of our group time- We spent a lot of time awing over Gods’ glory in our friends two week old baby boy! He is just precious! After the video we spent time time discussing Psalm 119:133 and how to “steady our steps” and naming our personal struggles and have committed these to prayer. We are all so excited to embark on this journey and are expecting to see God’s awesome power!
Oklahoma, Sheila (solo)
Beth’s comments about the Psalms passage got to me. Psalm 129:132 turn to me and be gracious to me, as is your way with those who love your name. I have always feared trusting the Lord completely-afraid that something bad would happen, afraid that I might lose something, i dont know-just afraid. I’m going to hold onto this verse this summer – thank you! I can’t wait to go through this study with you all.
(I thought I missed out-I came to this blog @the beginning of last year & did the memory verses-I kept watching the blog @ the beginning of 2012, but no memory verse team? So I was very glad to see this summer study)
Clarence, NY Barbara S solo (though in a group at church doing the same study)
#3 resonated most with me – I need to see the Lord graciousness to me. (Or should I say I need the eyes to recognize it as I know He is gracious to me all the time and I don’t get it.)
I so desire for Him to speak to me through this study with you all.
Lexington, SC; the 3 amigos; 2 senioritas and 1 senor (3). This our first couple Bible study and we invited a friend to join us.
Question 5: We discussed the fact that all three of us are facing different trials and temptations this summer, but how we can be there for each other to encourage and pray.
Question 6: We talked about the meaning of oppression and how for us, it was mostly society telling us what we should think or feel about certain things rather than the Spirit.
It was a great time!!!
Tonia —flying solo in Meridian Idaho. Have to admit with 972+ comments before me, this feels a little like whispering in a tornado but…question #3 resonated with me. I stumble here. Not because I can’t see His generosity but because I am so greedy that I come back to Him with “how come you allow that for them and not for me?” I am not as grateful as I should be.
With the abundance of comments, you can only choose so many to read. I read yours, Thank you for sharing. Don’t be too hard on yourself. Forgive yourself for you ungratefulness & do better. That what God would expect of you.
Liberty,MO; “9 Fine Ladies” 9, but we might have picked up another siesta already. New witty name to follow. (Originally we were thinking “Crazy Eights” but you start a good bible study and people keep coming! [and messing up your inventive group names, Ha!])
Usually we attend a Bible Study through a nearby church in the spring and fall that hosts about 50 ladies, but our table doesn’t understand “time off” from each other, so we 9 or 10 (and counting) are meeting at our table leader’s home for the summer. We meet on Tuesdays, but I am slow and just got to a computer to tell you about it!
It was such a blessing to be meeting with other Christian ladies again! It is so rejuvenating to sit with Christian friends and pray. Some of us are going through trials right now, and it was important to be able to lean on each other, but also important to remind ourselves not to become numb to other people who are hurting because we are so distracted by our own things.
Thank you for sharing your time and heart. God is moving, and I look forward to giving you an update about how we are being changed.
Louisiana;God’s Beloved,2.Friend & I have met during our breaks @ work. Question #6 re:oppression. The 2 of us agreed that oppression is the abuse of authority granted. Time to time, one may find themselves in an oppressive environment. Know that forgiveness on our part & faithfulness on God’s part, can bring restoration to a relationship which has been destroyed due to abused authority.
We are Nehemiah’s Global Girls. There are 8 of us discussing this on Facebook through the Siesta’s SMT page. We live all over the place from Canada to South Texas, and from Washington State to Florida. Several ideas have struck us, the unfolding of God’s Word, how it brings light to us, not falling under the dominion of sin, but I think the one that we have all spoken of the most is the idea of not only sitting quietly with the Lord, but also of EXPECTING Him to meet with us and unfold His word to us. We are all looking forward to more unfolding of God’s Word as we go through this study.
One more, we are up to 9! Anyone else who does not have a group, and you would like to join us, just look for Siesta (Sisters) SMT on Facebook. It is a closed group, so we can comment with some semblance of privacy, but you can request to join. Judith Coates is the administrator, and she will add you to our group.