Verses Used:

1. Hebrews 12:11
2. Matthew 11:28
3. Luke 10:38-42
4. Matthew 7:21-23
5. Revelation 3:20
6. 1 Timothy 3:16-17
7. Hebrews 4:12

Takeaways:

1. Jesus invites us to a different way of life. A life of abiding.

Jesus’ Availability

1. Jesus and his disciples are on their way to Jerusalem.
2. Jesus doesn’t say “I don’t have time”, “I’ll catch you on the way back”, or “my schedule is kind of full.”
3. Jesus is available. He is close, never distant, he enters ordinary homes, and he welcomes relationship.
4. Sometimes we think our spiritual formation is about us initiating something, like it’s all up to us to “get our life together”, “need to pursue God harder”, or “need to make ourselves worthy”.
5. You don’t have to get your life in order before being with Jesus. He is already there. Reading scripture is simply welcoming Him into the room.

Being Present with Jesus

1. Jesus is saying that presence matters more than productivity.
2. In the story about Mary and Martha, the heart of the issue is priority, not effort.
3. A relationship with Jesus is more important than doing things for Jesus.
4. Spiritual formation does not begin with doing more for Jesus, but with being present with Jesus.
5. Being with Jesus is not rushing through chapters, checking off boxes, proving devotion.
6. Being with Jesus is slowing down, listening, being present.

Making Space in the Word

1. The goal is listening. Getting to know the God of the Bible. Telling him, “Jesus, I want to hear You more than I want to hear myself.”
2. Start small and stay consistent. Consistency forms us more than intensity.
3. Have a simple plan. Use whatever helps such as apps like YouVersion Bible, Blue Letter Bible, or Dwell.
4. Take notes or journal. Start with 4 simple questions: Who is God? How do we know? Who am I? How do I get to live?
5. Remember to show yourself grace if you miss a day.

Discussion Questions:

1. How does it make you feel that Jesus is available to meet with you? Why?
2. How can spiritual disciplines sometimes turn into religious duties?
3. What are some helpful tips you have for being consistent with in scripture?
4. What barriers have you faced in having a regular rhythm of being in the word?

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