A Wrestling in Bible Study
Bible studies have been a hobby in my life ever since I was invited to our neighborhood Bible study many moons ago. The format was exactly what I needed at the time. A compassionate, honest and humble woman bravely led some curious, passionate, truth seekers to a greater understanding of scripture and how to raise our children and honor our marriages when life was throwing a lot of unknowns our way.
That simple beginning opened up a desire to continue to grow and learn about our incredible Creator, his Son our Savior and the Holy Spirit, our advocate through the Word, our guidebook to a holy way of living where peace joy and love exist!
Throughout the years the studies have varied in content, in how much prep time is needed, in the group of people and more. A holy mysterious organic journey of faith has occurred randomly and gratitude fills my heart when I consider all of the opportunities.
So last year I boldly possibly rudely pushed and received an invitation to a new opportunity. Having been denied entrance in a past Bible study I knew that this was a privilege. They were allowing me to come without knowing much about me. Immediately their trust in God as to who was in the room made my heart excited to the possibilty!
The women are remarkable! They are doing some incredibly hard things. They are reflecting reality, living life to the best of their ability when somedays just getting out of bed is a major accomplishment. My desire tank for authentic relationships is being filled.
As with every study that I have participated in, frequently my thoughts became unsettled, a wrestling stirs, and a conviction arises. The voice in my head, gently yet firmly suggested that I had been behaving like a follower of Moses who wasn’t satisfied with the Manna. Manna was free food that God sent to sustain the Israelites when they we wandering in the dessert.
It was a gentle reminder, but it sounded like this…
I’m giving you manna and you are not accepting it.
Ouch! Ok let me rethink this!
So with this week’s study I decided to spread out the lessons instead of cramming them in on the last 2 days. The studying became priority rather than something to knock off my to do list. And I needed to stop wanting this study to be like Joyce Meyer or Priscilla Shirer or Beth Moore. I was stuck in an expectation by comparison mindset, wanting a juicy steak dinner instead of being open to the wonderful flavor of a new seafood dish I had not yet discovered but would appreciate!
So I tasted the new delicacy by being intentional with quiet time to digest and reflect on the words I was reading.
Holy Cow!
Now fulfilled by a rich, flavorful, message, I regret my complaints and give profound gratitude for the reminder I received to stop comparing and accept the bountiful harvest prepared just for me!
May you find your manna for today!
Never forget you are loved!
Stay blessed, ya’all!