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What Does God Sound Like?
An Excerpt from Speak, My Soul If we are to hear our own soul speak, we Read More
August 2: A Diligent Listener
1. Have you ever rushed past something you were searching for without realizing it? What prevented you from noticing it? Did you ever find what you were looking for?
2. When have you benefited from quietly observing your surroundings? Why do you think slowing down and paying attention makes such a difference in what we notice?
3. What helps make you more aware of the nudges of the Holy Spirit? How do you attend to those nudges?
4. Do you relate more to Martha or Mary? Why? In what ways is it important for us to emulate both of these women in our daily lives?
5. Who in your life is the best example of quiet listening?
What can you learn from them?
August 9: In Community
1. Do you prefer to do things by yourself or with help? Why? How does your situation or experience change based on whether you’re working alone or with others?
2. Recall a time when you felt God’s presence through the comfort and support of others. What was the most meaningful part of that experience for you?
3. Why do you think community is so important for our faith and happiness? Name the three most beneficial things that come from being in community with others.
4. What scripture passages remind you of the value of community and accepting help? In what ways do those passages encourage you as you work to build community in your life?
5. Whom in your community can you ask for help today? To whom in your community can you offer help? How do you think supporting one another brings glory to God?
August 16: Rereading
1. What task have you found is best accomplished when you repeat it multiple times? Why? What motivates you to do the task again even when you don’t feel like it?
2. Do you enjoy rereading scripture passages again and again? Why or why not? How does each new reading give you new understanding?
3. What is the most meaningful insight you have received from a scripture passage? Did you receive this insight on your first time reading it or upon rereading a familiar passage? How did this insight change the way you think of the passage?
4. How are you encouraged to know that the Bible is an inexhaustible source of strength and peace for us? What else serves as an inexhaustible source of strength and peace for you?
5. What spiritual practice or Bible study helps you to find new understanding and insights from familiar Bible passages? In what ways do you continue exploring familiar scripture verses even after you have read them many times?
August 23: Community Makes a Difference
1. Have you ever offered a donation without knowing a specific need? What led you to make the donation? What was the outcome, and what did you learn from that situation?
2. Do you find it easy or difficult to listen to God’s promptings to care for others? What obstacles get in the way of your caring for others? How do you move past those obstacles to follow God’s promptings?
3. Describe a time when you observed God working out the details of a situation in an amazing way. Had you expected the outcome that occurred? Why or why not?
4. When has God supplied your needs in an unexpected way? How did this provision change your situation?
5. What community outreach activities do you participate in? How does your church serve those in need in your community? How do you strive to make a difference for those around you?
August 30: The Whole Story
1. Whose autobiography has had a major impact on your life? Why? What did you learn from that person’s experiences and reflections?
2. Is it hard for you to acknowledge and admit your mistakes and shortcomings? Why or why not? What happens when you are willing to admit your failings?
3. When have you found that vulnerability and authenticity have deepened your connection with someone else? How did your relationship with this person change?
4. If you were one of the disciples, how would you feel knowing that your good and bad moments were recorded in scripture? Why would you feel this way?
5. Where do you find it easiest to be vulnerable and authentic? Where do you find it most difficult? Who in your life best encourages you to be vulnerable? How do you encourage others to do the same?
