Women's Spring Bible Study

It’s too early to plant flowers, so let’s celebrate spring early by getting out of the house and joining a short Bible study. Bring a friend to one of the studies on the topic that interests you—friendship, suffering and loss, prayer, and biblical hospitality.

Four groups will meet in homes around the area for seven weeks in March and April.

Each study will have a book with study questions and be led by a trained leader. These studies will be a casual time of discovering God’s wisdom and guidance on topics we care about. It’s a great opportunity to grow in God’s Word and spend time with a friend and women of various ages.

Course descriptions and registration link can be found below.

Suffering and Loss—Desperate for Hope: Questions We Ask God in Suffering, Loss, and Longing by Vaneetha Risner

“Have you ever asked, Why am I going through this? What if this never gets better? Does God really care about me? When life falls apart, it’s easy to feel alone and slip into despair—disillusioned with God, hopeless about the future, and doubting your faith.

“In this seven-session study, Vaneetha Risner tackles the hard questions and offers a scriptural framework to help you find hope in your pain. She will be a gracious guide through this difficult topic, walking with you as you meet women in the Bible who suffered loss, and sharing her own experiences of longing and grief. In the end, you’ll find that the answers to your deepest questions can be found in the character, goodness, and sovereignty of God.”*

This study will be held in the Dunlap area.

Friendship—We Saved You A Seat: Finding and Keeping Lasting Friendships by Lisa-Jo Baker

“ ‘How are you?’ ”

 “ ‘Fine.’

“In today’s busy world, we’re wired to appear “fine,” warding off authenticity and shielding ourselves from judgment. We hide behind the hum of busyness to escape intimate friendships with the women God has placed in our lives.

But we do want a seat at the table. We yearn for authentic relationships and the opportunity to be the opposite of “fine” with people who cheer for us. But comparison, envy, and entitlement often stop us from pulling out a chair at the table. Friendship can be hard, making new friends even harder, and maintaining genuine friendship the hardest of all.

In this seven-session Bible study, we will explore our relationship with Jesus as the ultimate model for authentic friendship. Nothing shapes us like the impact of a friend—it’s how Jesus radically and intimately connects with us. So instead of chasing perfection, overcome your fear of being known and find the courage to connect.”*

This study will be held in the Uplands/Bradley area.

Hospitality (not entertaining)—Just Open the Door: A Study of Biblical Hospitality by Jen Schmidt

“Hospitality is one of the best ways to live out the two greatest commandments: loving God with all your heart and your neighbor as yourself. But often we get caught up in perfecting our homes and conversations before we open our doors.

“Over seven sessions, look to Jesus as your model for hospitality. Discover how He lived a life full of interruptions, yet always welcomed people and invited them to follow Him. Learn to replace cultural expectations with biblical hospitality to create a legacy of invitation and reflect Jesus through simple acts of service.”*

This study will be held in Morton.

Prayer—When You Pray: A Study of Six Prayers in the Bible by various authors

“Do you have trouble thinking of words to say to God when you pray? Are you afraid some emotions are too intense to express to God? Do you reach the end of a day only to realize you haven’t prayed at all? You’re not alone. Prayer is the way we relate to God, but sometimes it’s a struggle. Throughout God’s Word, we encounter many voices who teach us how to pray.

“In this seven-session study, join with six beloved Bible teachers who will help you study prayers in the Bible that can inspire your own. You’ll learn that God welcomes your praise and lament, your thanksgiving and intercession. You’ll see examples of how to pray when you’re alone and when you’re gathered with others. Above all, you’ll notice there’s no one right way to pray. As you draw near to God through prayer, you’ll find your faith strengthened and your heart united to Christ.”*

This study will be held in the North Peoria/Dunlap area.

*All course descriptions are taken from the back cover copy of each book.

Register