A follow-up discussion to our Sunday lesson. (All are welcome here, even if you aren’t with us in class!)
Something to Think About
February 1
A drought in nature is a period of dry weather, especially a long one that is injurious to crops. An extended shortage.
Spiritually speaking, it is a time when we feel depleted, dried up. Our souls feel limp and lifeless. We may look great on the outside, like we’re functioning, but inside, in our hearts and souls where it counts, there is little or nothing left. Spiritual droughts cause a lack of food.
Our three QUESTIONS to keep in mind as we study:
- Does God INTEND for us to have seasons of spiritual droughts?
- If there is a drought, do we create it or contribute to it?
- What can we do to survive (or move out of) the drought?
During class on Sunday, it was easy for us to identify symptoms of a spiritual drought. We acknowledged, that like all spiritual seasons, it is part of our imperfect human nature to experience this season, and we’ve all been there, are there, or will be there again.
Scripture Reminders:
- John 6:35-37, especially v. 37: “I am the bread of life, he who comes to me shall not hunger, and he who believes in me shall never thirst”
- John 5:37-40 A conversation with the Jews who thoroughly knew God’s Word, but managed to miss something important. (Not that that ever happens to us, right?!)
Over the next couple of weeks, we’re going to look at some different causes of spiritual droughts. Our first glance is selfishness with our time and attention. This can lead to neglect of listening to God and living in relationship with Him through His word.
Jesus promises that in Him, we will never be thirsty. Check out His conversation with the woman at the well (John 4:7-26) and revisit that conversation with the Jews in John 5.
- Can we take Jesus at His Word? There seems to be action that is required on our part to receive the blessing of this promise.
- What’s the difference between studying God’s word diligently and coming to Jesus?
Don’t you love God and how His intentions for us are pure and complete? Yet, He understands our nature so perfectly, He ALWAYS offers a provision of grace that helps us in our weaknesses!
- What are some small changes we can make in our study of scripture that can help us make the shift from viewing Bible study as a ‘should do’ and an academic exercise, to truly communing with God in His word?
I look forward to your thoughts expressed here or during class. Welcome to all who join in, regardless of whether or not you are with are group on Sunday morning!
Blessings and love,
Terri
