Repost: Striving vs. Abiding

We chose to repost this episode from Season 1 because it is a message at the heart of the Abiding Together Podcast. Many of us live a life of striving and struggle, rather than accepting the invitation of abiding and trust. We take time to reflect on the scripture John 15:4-5, where Jesus invites us to abide in His love. We also chat about how we can recognize the pitfalls of striving and how to learn to trust that God is a good Father.

 

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Daring Greatly by Brene Brown

Michelle’s one thing - the movie Hidden Figures

Heather’s one thing - signs from The House of Belonging

Additional Resources: Shepherd by Bethel Undivided by Stu Garrard (feat. Amanda Cook) Present Over Perfect by Shauna Niequist

Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by Pilgrimage to Beauty. Their mission is to create a transformative experience of true rest and retreat, for couples or individuals wired for adventure.

Pilgrimage to Beauty believes that traversing the world, cultures and even our own street can teach us so much. Gaining knowledge of other peoples and lands gives us a genuine curiosity to learn and experience even more of what the world has to offer. 

Their aim is to give you a unique once in a lifetime experience that transforms and renews your spirit, no matter your vocation or state in life. Their next trip is to Guatemala in March 2020, so check it out quickly!

 

Discussion questions:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. What do the terms abiding and striving mean to you?
3. What seed do you hear God calling you to cultivate slowly right now?
4. What motivates you to strive and grasp instead of abiding and trusting in God?
5. What is one thing you can do this week to abide more deeply in God?

 

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: John 15:4-5. What does it speak to you personally? 
2. Where are you striving and where are you abiding?
3. Where do you struggle with self-reliance?

 

Quote to Ponder - This self-reliance was what destroyed me. - St. Teresa of Avila

Scripture for Lectio Divina -  John 15:4-5: Abide in me as I abide in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me. I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing.