[1]NASHVILLE (BP) — This weekly Bible study appears in Baptist Press in a partnership with Lifeway Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. Through its Leadership and Adult Publishing team, Lifeway publishes Sunday School curricula and additional resources for all age groups.
This week’s Bible study is adapted from the Explore the Bible curriculum.
Bible Passage: Job 42:1-11
Discussion Questions:
— How has the past year of virtual meetings helped you appreciate in-person activities? What do you value the most when meeting in person?
— How does one move from knowing about God to knowing God personally? What are the differences and similarities between knowing about God and personally knowing Him?
Food for thought:
Over the past year, we have attended school, held meetings and kept up with family using social media platforms and live video tools. We may have even participated in virtual weddings, worship services and Bible study groups. We adapted but deep down we knew there was nothing like being there live and in person. As we regather, we are rediscovering the value of personal face-to-face interaction.
[2]After chapter upon chapter of searching for an answer to explain the tragedies of life, Job confessed his inability to understand and committed to trust in God’s wisdom. He explained that prior to this time in his life he had heard reports about God, but now he had seen God with his own eyes (Job 42:5). This personal interaction made the difference for Job. He embraced the simple peace found in God’s presence. Job had experienced a firsthand relationship with God. His crisis helped him find true dependence on God. Job shifted his focus from demanding answers which the Lord never provided to gaining peace by submitting to the Lord, even without all the answers to his questions.
We are often perplexed by how much we do not know, especially when it comes to spiritual matters. The beauty of Job 42 is Job realized he was completely dependent upon God for all things. This dependence includes both the spiritual and material things that humans require. There is no one like God, and no one can truly understand the process of His plans. When we are faced with constant problems, like suffering, poverty and injustice, we wonder where is the God of redemption and salvation. Yet Scripture reminds us that He is always present, and we can find peace in that presence.
Explore the Bible
Explore the Bible is an ongoing Bible study curriculum that helps groups dig into the key truths of each Bible book, while keeping the group on pace to study through the Bible books in a systematic way. More information can be found at Lifeway.com/ExploreTheBible [3].
Other ongoing Bible study options for all ages offered by Lifeway can be found at Lifeway.com/SundaySchool [4].