Thank you for being a part of this Bible study! I'm so grateful to be on this journey with you!

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2 Hello to all of our Listen, Love, Repeat OBSers! As I was reading our current OBS book, Listen, Love, Repeat by Karen Ehman, the one thing that stood out to me the most was how much Scripture was tucked within the contents of this book. Each time I stumbled upon a new verse Karen mentioned, I would pause, highlight it in my book and then pull out my Bible and look it up for myself. This turned out to be such a blessing to me, because each time I did it, I got lost in God's Word in the best way. I started journaling on where ever the study of the verses led me. I learned so much about Jesus, the apostle Paul and the power of studying the Bible along with reading my book. I found myself following trails I never expected to follow. One verse would lead to another. I was flipping back and forth between the Old Testament and the New Testament. It was amazing and beneficial to my growth and implementation of Karen's message. I did this with each chapter that I read and my journal ended up turning into a Bible study I wanted to share with all of you. I wrote it. My team went through it. We all tweaked it a bit. And we hope it blesses you and adds great value to your Online Bible Study experience every Tuesday and Thursday this study. Thank you for being a part of this Bible study! I'm so grateful to be on this journey with you! With Love & Gratitude, Melissa It s time to get your Bible out! You can use a printed/physical Bible, Bible app or Bible Gateway. Whatever works best for you just look it up. Don t take our word for it!

3 TUESDAY, WEEK 1 Chapter 1 Bible Study Supplies needed: Bible, Listen, Love, Repeat book, pen or pencil and a highlighter. LET S BEGIN: What is a heart drop? (page 15, Listen, Love, Repeat) Can you think of an example of a time you experienced a heart drop? How can you be more intentional on noticing those around you? JESUS NOTICED ONE WOMAN Read Mark 5:21-34 Who was Jairus? What did Jairus want from Jesus? What was Jesus response? When Jesus was on the way to Jairus house to heal his daughter, what happened? (v ) What was the disciples response when Jesus asked who touched him? What tone do you think these words were spoken in? (v. 31)

4 It could have been considered a distraction to Jesus when the woman touched his cloak. It wasn t in the plan. Think about it. While Jesus was on an important assignment to heal a dying girl, He always had the capacity to engage in an unexpected encounter. However, Jesus response was not annoyance or frustration. His response was to stop the task at hand and seek the one who reached for Him in an act of faith. His response was to take a God-appointed assignment despite where we was headed. (v ) The disciples missed it. Jesus didn t. Not only was the woman healed, but Jesus wanted to see her she mattered to Him. Think of a God-appointed assignment you missed because you were too busy. What was it? What can you do different next time? Re-read Mark 5:32-34 What does it say Jesus did? (v. 32) What did Jesus say to the woman who touched His cloak once He found her? (v. 34) Jesus didn t miss a thing when He stopped to notice the woman who touched Him. Just like He won t miss a thing when we reach out to Him. Jesus notices. He noticed this woman. He notices me. He notices you. How does it make you feel to know Jesus really sees you? And you are important enough for Him to take time for you? Describe a time you knew you were important to Jesus. Read Mark 5:35-43 Jesus notices. He noticed this woman. He notices me. He notices you. Jairus got word that his daughter had died and was told, Why bother the teacher (Jesus) anymore? Do you ever feel like you are a bother to Jesus? Write down a time you dismissed your need and said, why bother?

5 Write down the response Jesus gave to those saying why bother? (v. 36) Jesus knew there was more to the story. He knew that however sad, overwhelming or pointless a situation may feel, we can choose not to be afraid and to trust Him. He also knew the story didn t end in the middle of the crowd, but that it continued to Jairus house. When Jesus arrived at the home of the dead girl, people laughed at Him. Why did people laugh at Jesus after he arrived at Jairus house? (v. 38) When people laugh at me, it makes me want to quit! I get insecure and begin to question myself. But not Jesus. The laughing crowd did not stop him. Jesus knew His mission. He knew what He was there for. I love how Jesus removes the distractions once He arrives. Instead of listening to the laughing crowd, He selects a few disciples and the dead girl s parents and goes to where the child is. He removes Himself from obstacles that could prevent His purpose that day. What happened to the dead girl? (v. 42a) At this they were completely. (v. 42b) What can you learn from this story? Jesus is calling us to stop and notice. To live alert. KAREN ehman Like Karen Ehman writes, Jesus is calling us to stop and notice. To live alert. To give a special touch that may heal a heart or cheer a weary soul. This is exactly what Jesus did, and continues to do for each and every one of us. Living alert, sometimes means we need to remove the distractions. What distractions do you need to remove in order to fulfill God s assignment for you today?

6 ENCOURAGEMENT AND PRAISE Read Hebrews 13:1-3 What 3 things are we encouraged to do in these verses? Life often gets so busy and complicated we forget about the people around us. But these verses are very clear about noticing not only those in our path, but those who aren t in our daily schedules. Read Hebrews 13: Again, we see three things three ways we can spread love. What are the 3 ways these verses show how we can spread love? Note at the very end of verse 16, we re told how God feels when we carry out these actions. What does it say? Aren t you excited to know God is pleased when we offer our praises to Him, do good and share with others? And that He notices? I LOVE THIS! Read Matthew 5: Who is the light of the world? (v. 14) What does it mean to be the "light of the world?"

7 Why should we let our light shine before others? If we ve accepted Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, we have the light of Christ in us. We don t want that light to be hidden! My Life Application Bible (NIV84) says we hide our light when we: 1. Are quiet when we should speak 2. Go along with the crowd 3. Deny the light 4. Let sin dim our light 5. Don t explain what our light is to others 6. Ignore the needs of others If we ve accepted Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, we have the light of Christ in us. Is there a place in your life where you re hiding the light? When our light shines, people see Jesus. This is when they know our good deeds are not our own, but from our Father.

8 THURSDAY, WEEK 1 Chapter 2 Bible Study THE GREATEST COMMANDMENT On page 39 of Listen, Love, Repeat, Karen writes, Of course Jesus gave us the answer not only to why we are here but what we are supposed to do while we re here. Now I don t know about you, but when I read the words, Jesus gave us the answer I want to find out what He said for myself. Isn't it exciting to understand for ourselves what God's Word says? Goodness, I can't wait for you to see what I'm seeing. Open up your Bible and let's read together. Read Matthew 22: Jesus was asked by an expert in the law, Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law? (verse 36). This question was rooted in arrogance and pride. According to the NLT Commentary, the Pharisees had classified over 600 laws. They themselves often determined their importance. Their goal was to put Jesus into place. And yet, Jesus replied with a simple and truthful response. What was Jesus reply? (v ) Side note: When Jesus replied, he was quoting from Deuteronomy 6:5 and Leviticus 19:18 According to these passages, we are to (in this order): 1. Love with all your 2. Love with all your 3. Love with all your

9 In what ways are you doing this in your life? 1. Loving God 2. Loving others 3. Loving yourself In verse 40, Jesus tells us that all the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments. What do you think He meant by that? According to my Life Application Study Bible (NIV84), Jesus says if we truly love God and our neighbor, we will naturally keep the commandments. These two commandments summarize the Ten Commandments and the other Old Testament moral laws. ONE ANOTHER The Bible says a lot about how we should love one another. Read the following one another passages in your Bible or Bible app. What do these verses say we should do to or for one another? John 13:34-35 Romans 12:10 Romans 12:15-16 Philippians 2:5-8

10 How can you pay attention to one another and live these verses out practically? IN CLOSING I love Karen s story as she closes out Chapter 2. It s the story of the elderly woman in the coffee shop. After Karen helped, the woman said, you people have always been so helpful to me. Who are you people? What are some examples of a Christian who is: Loving? Helpful? Condescending? Judgmental? Let s close with this: If people are watching us and all they see are uncaring or condemning Christians, why oh why would they ever want to become one? My prayer is that we, as Christ-followers, will be lumped in the you people group my sweet coffeehouse friend saw. Considerate Christians who make God and his body of believers look good. (page 50, Listen, Love, Repeat) Extra bonus homework: Read and look up all of the one another Scriptures Karen shares starting on page 52.

11 TUESDAY, WEEK 2 Chapter 3 Bible Study Last week in our Bible study, we studied a lot about Jesus. This week, we re going to take a closer look at the teachings and words from the Apostle Paul. There are two themes that stand out in Chapter 3 of Listen, Love, Repeat, one is encouragement. The other is obedience. Let s take a look. ENCOURAGEMENT On page 66 of Listen, Love, Repeat, Karen tells us about the Apostle Paul. Paul wrote many of the books in the New Testament. Today, we are going to look at one of those books, 1 Thessalonians. His main purpose for writing this letter was encouragement. He wanted to encourage and strengthen the faith of the believers in Thessalonica and give them assurance in Christ s return. He also presents them with godly wisdom and advice and challenges them to please God in their daily living. Let s take a look at some of the encouragement, assurance and advice Paul shares and what we can draw from it today. Read 1 Thessalonians 1:1-3. In verses 1 and 2, Paul begins his letter with three important things. 1. Grace 2. Peace 3. Thanksgiving How can focusing on these three things challenge us to obey as we learn to encourage others? It s difficult to resent hard work when we come in grace and peace, and give thanks to the Lord for those we are serving. My takeaway from this is as I give to others, may I do so with a happy heart filled with grace, peace and thanksgiving.

12 What s your takeaway? Write a sentence or two below on what God wants you to take away from this passage. Read 1 Thessalonians 2:6-9 How does verse 7 describe the way Paul and his friends (Silas and Timothy) cared for the Thessalonians? Verse 8 says they loved them so much they were delighted to do two things. 1. Share the. 2. Share their. We see love in action here. We also see that while it s important to share our faith with others, taking action is also key. It s through what we do, not what we say, where people see our faith. When is a time you shared your life with someone and it made a difference? Was it through your words? Or through your actions? Read 1 Thessalonians 2: Notice how verse 11 describes the way Paul and his friends dealt with the Thessalonians. Verse 12 shows three ways they dealt with them: 1. They them. 2. They them. 3. They them to live lives worthy of God.

13 What two people are we given as examples to emulate? (2:7,11) How can we use the examples of a mother and father when serving and dealing with others in our lives? Read 1 Thessalonians 3: What does Paul ask the Lord to increase in the lives of the Thessalonians? Personalize these requests for yourself and present them to the Lord. (Example: Lord, make my love increase and overflow for others as it does for You.) Now pray these same requests for someone in your life. (Example: Lord, I ask you to please make Hayley Grace s love increase and overflow for others as it does for you.) God is our source of love and strength. Read 1 Thessalonians 4:1-12. In my Bible, this section of Scripture is titled, Living to Please God. As you read these verses, jot down the different ways Paul mentions we can live a life pleasing to God. In the NIV translation, we see the word urge twice in this passage. Right away in verse 1 and then again in verse 10. What is so important that Paul is urging the people to do? Verses 1-2: Verses 9-10:

14 Please God and love others. These are themes we continue to hear Paul talk about. Why do you think he stresses them over and over again? Let s examine our own lives. This is intended for your eyes only so be honest. List ways your own life is pleasing to God. List ways your life could be more pleasing to God. List ways you love others well. List ways you could love others better.

15 By creating these lists, are you urged to do something different? Does this help bring to light some little changes you could make in your life to please God and love others more? Read 1 Thessalonians 5:12-28 As you read, underline in your Bible or list some of Paul s final instructions that stick out to you. Heads up: you just might see the word urge again! This is one of my favorite passages of Scripture! Oh, if everyone could live like this all the time the world would be such a better place! We are given a lot of instruction here and it may seem impossible to live this way all day, every day. But remember, that s why we need Jesus. That s why it s so important for us to be in God s Word daily. We need the reminder. We need the peace and strength we get through Jesus. And when we do fall short, we can go to Jesus and receive His sweet forgiveness. We can trust God to do all the Bible says He will do because the One who calls you is faithful, and He will do it. Let s close with this: Karen gives us so many ideas on how we can love others and give of ourselves. But in order to carry any of this out we must move. Giving of ourselves won t happen by itself. It will happen when we are obedient. Karen writes, on page 77, When God knocks on our hearts, we can knock on their doors. Then she challenges us by asking, Will you do it? Will you try? Then once you ve reached out, leave the results to God. Our job is obedience. God will do the rest. NOTES

16 THURSDAY, WEEK 2 Chapter 4 Bible Study As we begin our study today, let s learn a little history about the book of Colossians. My Bible explains the purpose of Colossians is to combat errors in the church and to show that believers have everything they need in Christ. Amazingly enough, Colossians is a letter written by Paul, from prison, in Rome. He was writing to the church at Colosse. In the first half of this letter (chapters one and two), Paul teaches about what Christ has done. In the second half (chapters three and four), he teaches what Christians should do. This is where our verse of the week, Colossians 3:12, is found in the second half. Read Colossians 3. Highlight and/or jot down the words or phrases that stand out to you. Today we are going to focus on our verse of the week, Colossians 3:12. Let s take a look at this verse. First of all, what word does Colossians 3:12 begin with? I ve heard this quote from various Bible teachers. I don t know where it originated, but I ve found it to be true: whenever you see a therefore in Scripture, you have to see what it is there for. Therefore marks a transition from what has been said so far to what is about to be said next. The Asbury Bible Commentary states there is a natural break in the text at 3:12 (clearly marked by therefore ), a shift from negative to positive exhortation. Up to this point in Colossians, we ve heard a lot of do nots. But now we are about to hear the dos.

17 Colossians 3:12 gives us instruction on the dos. What does it tell us to do? (What are we to clothe ourselves with?) From the Asbury Bible Commentary: If indeed Christ is all, and is in all (v 11), then Christians ought to reflect his image. Clothe yourselves, the apostle exhorts (v 12), with the virtues Christ manifested. As Christians, one of our goals is to be more like Christ. Jesus was compassionate, kind, humble, gentle and patient. Let s take a look at other places in the Bible where these virtues are mentioned. Read Galatians 5:22-23 Which of the virtues in Colossians 3:12 do we also see here? Read Philippians 2:3 Which of the virtues from Colossians 3:12 do we find in this passage? Read 1 Corinthians 13:4 From these verses, what is love?

18 Read 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 What do these verses say about compassion? We can find examples of the Lord s compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience throughout the Bible. Our verse of the week tells us we are to clothe ourselves in these things. We may not naturally possess these virtues, but they are available to us. We can put them on, just like we put on our clothes. Our clothes are an outward expression of us. You can tell a lot about a person simply by what they are wearing. If you saw me today, you d know that I have a favorite football team. Or at least you could assume that because the shirt I m wearing bears the name of that team. #GoPanthers The virtues we are told to clothe ourselves with should also be an outward expression of who we are and an inward expression of whose we are. If Christ is our Savior, He lives in us. Therefore, these virtues can be worn by us. Just like you can tell I m a Carolina Panthers fan today, my hope is that more importantly you can tell I m compassionate, kind, humble, gentle and patient. If I m honest, there are days when you may not see these virtues in me. Days when I m tired, upset, when things aren t going my way or I just don t feel like being all virtuous. Usually, those are the days when I haven t been so close to God. I skipped a few days of Bible study. I ve been trying to do life my way. I ignore my need for God and His Word not good. We need God s Word. It has the power to transform our lives. So, I leave you with these questions and then some bonus work for you Bible study overachievers. What are you clothed in today? (And I don t mean the clothes on your back!)

19 How can you make sure you are clothed like Jesus? How can you be intentional about wearing and sharing the five virtues in our verse of the week? (be specific) BONUS: When writing today s Bible study, I used various resources: My Life Application Study Bible (the verses, explanations, references on the sides of the pages) Bible Gateway (biblegateway.com) Asbury Bible Commentary (which I found via Bible Gateway, along with other commentaries as well) Google- Yes, I love Google. Of course, when using Google, or any search engine, it s important that the source it leads you to is reliable, but it s so quick and helpful! A few things I Google searched while writing today s study that helped me today were: o What does it mean when you see therefore in scripture? o Compassion in the Bible o Patience in the Bible It was so helpful and led me to some great resources and information! Do a Google search of the five virtues in our verse of the week and see what you come up with. What were a few of your favorite verses these words led you to?

20 How does it affect the way you view these virtues when you see them in various places throughout the Bible? NOTES

21 TUESDAY, WEEK 3 Chapter 5 Bible Study Today we beginning in the book of Romans. Romans was written by Paul and was originally intended for the Christians in Rome. The first half of this book (chapters 1-11) tells us what to believe. The second half (chapters 12-16) instructs us on how to behave. Our verse of the week is in the second half of Romans. Read Romans 12. As you read, highlight, underline or write down words or phrases that stand out to you. What are the first four words of Romans 12 (v. 1)? We ve seen this before from Paul. Remember last week when we studied 1 Thessalonians and Colossians? What does it mean when we see therefore? Hint: See last week s study on Colossians. Why, in the NIV and NASB translations, would Paul use the phrase I urge you? The ESV version says, I appeal to you and the NLT says, I plead with you. No matter what the translation, we get a sense of urgency here. Why do you think that is? We learn, right away, that what he s about to share is very important. And remember, the first section of Romans, chapters 1-11, is about what to believe. Beginning in chapter 12, Paul is transitioning into how to behave and therefore he begins this chapter with therefore.

22 Isn t it fun to notice things like this? I love it and now whenever I see the word therefore I really want to know what it is there for! After Paul writes, therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God this is your true and proper worship. Before Paul goes into detailed on how to offer ourselves as a living sacrifice, he mentions what we should, and should not, conform to. Why don t we take a deeper look? In verse 2, what does Paul say we need to let go of? What should we not conform to? How can we be transformed? I think it s important verses 1 and 2 are where they are. They set up what s coming. We re told how crucial it is to: Offer our bodies as a living sacrifice. Do not conform to the patterns of the world. Be transformed by the renewing of our minds. And after we receive this, he s ready to give further instruction. Read Romans 12:3-8 How does verse 3 tell us we should think of ourselves? What gifts are mentioned in verses 6-8? Which of these gifts do feel like God has given you? Why?

23 How can you be intentional with using the gifts God has given you? Read Romans 12:9-21 It s in this passage that we see love in action! What would the world be like if we all lived this way? However, since we can t control the world, let s begin with us. I ll begin with me and you begin with you. Let s be honest. It takes a lot of humility to live this way. Notice that Paul never says, Do this because it s fair and what you deserve. In fact, it s just the opposite. Why we do this goes back to verse 1, which says, to offer ourselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God. My daughter is going through a tough situation right now. She s 15-years-old and, therefore, usually not at a loss of drama in her life! Currently, she s suffering at the actions and cruelness of others. It s breaking my heart as her mom to watch her go through this. She s having to make some tough choices, like: To bless those who are persecuting her (v. 14) To live in harmony with others (v. 16) To not repay evil with evil (v. 17) And, as far as it depends on her, to live at peace with everyone (v. 18) These aren t easy instructions to live by, unless we are living connected to Jesus. And even then, it s not easy; but it is possible!. Apart from Him we can do nothing and with Him all things are possible (John 15:5; Matthew 19:26). That s our hope in this world.

24 From Romans 12:9-21, what do you find the most difficult to live out? Why? How can you begin to work on this? As we close today, let s look back at Romans 12:2. I don t think it s an accident that before Paul goes into how we can serve and love with humility, he writes verse 2. And that s where we will end today. Write out Romans 12:2 here. Then follow it by writing a personal prayer asking God for all you need from Him to live this way and praising Him for who He is in your life.

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26 THURSDAY, WEEK 3 Chapter 6 Bible Study Ok before we begin our Bible study today, can I confess something to you? I read Chapter 6, Chipped Crock-Pots and Stained Carpets from our book, Listen, Love, Repeat. The more I read, the more I felt like a hospitality failure. Karen is a great hostess. She seems to have a natural tendency to think through everything! I stink at thinking of everything! I m usually a plate short, not enough snacks and then on top of that, I m not a great cook. If my cookies are homemade it s because Nestle has made a bucket of cookie dough available to purchase! I could relate to the stained carpets for sure. I d be embarrassed for you to see my floors right now. I could also relate to wanting to serve others and having everything on hand and ready to go if someone just happened to stop by. I always dreamed of being that home. But the truth is, it does not come naturally to me. In Tuesday s Bible study this week, Paul reminded us of something at the beginning of Romans, chapter 12. I don t want us to forget it. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God s Will is hi good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God s will is his good, pleasing and perfect will (Romans 12:2). The patterns of this world would tell me to try to measure up! Be as good as the next person. But the Bible tells me to be transformed by the renewing of my mind. And in order to renew my mind, I need to have God s perspective, which comes from God s Word. That s why it s so important to be in His Word every day. Believe me, I ve tried on my own. I m not sure if you re like me and compare yourself to someone as you read Chapter 6. But don t allow the enemy to take what s good and turn it around in your head, like I was doing, because here s the truth: First of all, Karen would never want us to compare. She s sharing what she s learned with us. I promise, if she had the pages to spare, we d probably hear a few stories of botched recipes and less than perfect home gatherings. Here s what I ve learned: I may not have the natural gift of hospitality, but that doesn t excuse me from being welcoming and hospitable in my own way. I ve been told my home is one of the most welcoming places. That people love coming here. Y all that s funny. Here s why: When you come to my house, it s almost always BYOA (bring your own appetizer or dish to share). We put it all on the kitchen table. I don t even coordinate to make sure we have a variety. If everyone shows up with all chips and dips, so be it.

27 I had some ladies from OBS stay with me once. Quite a few times actually. They all brought their own air mattresses and slept on the floor! I know! Can you even?! Great hostess, huh? During football season, our door is open for you to come in and watch a game on our old (not smart) television. That s a bring your own event too. And our kids are always welcome to have friends over. We don t have a bonus room or basement, but they can hang out in our den, kitchen or out back at our tiki-hut. It s not glamorous, and they ve learned to bring their own snacks too sometimes! The key isn t what we have to give, as in materials or food. It s what we can give from our heart. A hug. A place to belong. A place of welcome. What is hospitality to you? Do you allow not being a great hostess or not having the best home or things or not being a good cook or (fill in the blank) be an obstacle in welcoming others to your home? If you answered yes above, does my story help you at all? What can you do to change your mindset? To renew your mind?

28 You have something special. I promise you that. How can God use who you are and what you have to be a loving and welcoming place for others? Now let s get to some Bible study. Karen mentions Scripture from both the Old Testament and the New Testament in this chapter. We will begin in the Old Testament in 1 Chronicles. Quick History 1 Chronicles begins with the extensive genealogy, tracing the family line from Adam to David for nine chapters. Then it begins with the story of David, who was considered a great, although not perfect, man of God. He was Israel s king who served the Lord and planned the construction of the temple. In Chapter 6 of Listen, Love, Repeat, Karen shares how David modeled generosity and charitable giving. The kind that comes from the heart, not from a place of pride and recognition. Read 1 Chronicles 29:6-9 According to verse 6, how did the people give? Write verse 9 here. Underline the words that describe the generosity of the leaders and King David s response. We see here the leaders gave some pretty sweet gifts! Do you think it was the cost or attractiveness of the gifts that really mattered, Or the way that they gave them?

29 I love that they gave what they had. Why would they do that? Do you give out of what you have? Or do you hold back because of what you think you need first? Read 1 Chronicles 29: This is a prayer to the Lord from King David. Make note of each time he praises God and refers to all that belongs to Him. Read 1 Chronicles 29: What is David s response after his prayer? How does this change your view of what you have? Who really owns your stuff? I love how David recognizes everything we have, material (wealth and things) and immaterial (honor), comes from God and belongs to God. We can truly give God the thanks and praise for everything in our lives.

30 What do you most want to thank and praise God for right now? Go ahead and spend some time thanking Him. So, if indeed everything belongs to God, surely He wants us to share it. Let s move to the New Testament as we wrap up today. Peter does a great job of letting us know how we can live for God. Read 1 Peter 4:8-10. Then fill in the blanks. Verse 8: Above all, love each other, because. Verse 9: Offer to one another without. Verse 10: Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to, as faithful stewards of God s grace in its various forms. Which of the above verses do you need to work on most? Explain why.

31 Sadly, for me, I have to admit it s verse 9. I don t grumble out loud, but I do in my head, especially if I m rushed or stressed. But grumbling in my head is still grumbling. Whichever verse you selected, focus and practice it this week. See how making this one verse an intention can not only bless others in your life, but come back as a blessing to you, too! Are there ways you plan to extend your own kind of hospitality this week? I encourage you to go for it! And if you spill the beans or burn the bread, God and your guests will forgive you because it s your heart they will notice most! NOTES

32 TUESDAY, WEEK 4 Chapter 7 Bible Study Chapter seven of Listen, Love, Repeat is about caring for and loving the lonely and unloved. A few years ago, I took an assessment titled Strengths Finder. The results revealed something that should have been obvious. Let me explain. Throughout my life, I ve had a pattern of noticing those who most would put in the category of being lonely, unloved and forgotten. Now, that s not a bad thing. My heart would hurt for these people. Often, I would befriend them and bring them into my home. Sometimes for a visit or a dinner. And sometimes for an extended period of time. Even if I couldn t help them, I would enlist others to help me help them. I have this gift of seeing potential in almost everyone. Although, I joke now saying that it could also be a curse! This isn t a bad thing unless the pain you experience from seeing them in a bad place takes over and dominates your own life, as it would mine. I would become so focused on helping and changing these unloved people, that my own life would spiral downward. My own family neglected. My finances compromised. And my heart eventually broken because I genuinely cared and loved. Empathy can be a beautiful thing. But it also needs to be managed. Yes, empathy. According to the Strengths Finder, empathy is in my top 5 strengths. I became mad at my empathy. How dare God give me the gift of empathy. After being burned a number of times by people using me, manipulating my kindness and walking all over me I became hardened. I didn t feel sorry for anyone anymore. I could easily look the other way when someone lonely or unloved was in my path. I adapted the attitude of help yourself first, then we can be friends. I m not proud of that. My empathy needed to be managed not dismissed. Plus, I learned I couldn t dismiss it even if I tried. I m happy to report that today my empathy is in a better place. I recognize that even though empathy is a strength, there are also weaknesses I need to be aware of so that it can be managed. My empathy needed to be managed not dismissed. I share this with you because I do believe we have to notice those in need. Ignoring the unloved and lonely people of this world is wrong. Karen Ehman models such a healthy way to love others. Notice how she doesn t sacrifice her family or finances she does what she can and leaves the rest up to God. LIGHT BULB MOMENT! It s the leaving the rest up to God part that I ve struggled with so often. We are to do what we can and leave the rest up to God.

33 Let s take a look at the scripture passages mentioned in Chapter 7 on pages Read Genesis 2:18 We learn here that It is not good for man to be. The Bible is clear that we were created to do life with others. Now let s turn to the middle of our Bibles to the book of Ecclesiastes. Ecclesiastes was written by Solomon. The Bible tells us that when Solomon became king, he asked God for wisdom (2 Chronicles 1:7-12). And wisdom he received. He became the wisest man in the world (1 Kings 4:29-34). Solomon used his wisdom well for a while. He taught others valuable lessons, many we receive through the Bible. Many kings and leaders from other nations would come to learn from Solomon. Even if God gives us wisdom and knowledge, it s not about what we know, but rather what we do with it. Side note: Even if God gives us wisdom and knowledge, it s not about what we know, but rather what we do with it. Sadly, Solomon didn t take his own wise advice and his life eventually exhibited excess in riches, livestock and wives. He became disobedient to God. With that said, there is still a lot we can learn from the writings of Solomon. Ecclesiastes was written so that we could learn from other s experiences, rather than our own, in knowing life is meaningless apart from God. One of those life lessons comes from Ecclesiastes 4:7-12. Read Ecclesiastes 4:7-12 In verse 7, Solomon is about to reveal something that s meaningless under the sun. Let s take a look at what he was referring to as meaningless. What does verse 8 say about a man and what was taking place in his life? This man was alone. Even with all of his wealth and riches, he wasn t happy. What conclusion can you come to about a life that revolves around wealth alone?

34 I m going to be honest. Many times, I ve thought, if only I had more money, my life would be better. And that s true of some things. I could have the light fixture repaired right away in my laundry room. I could replace my stained carpet. I could remodel my kitchen and upgrade these 1980 cabinet and counters. I could get a new car instead of driving an old junk piece (that s paid for and runs!). I could repair my broken tooth (true story, don t ask). I could have more clothes and not have to wear the same thing week after week. Oh, and I could help more people if only I had more money. Before I address my attitude confessed above, read Ecclesiastes 4:9-12. Verse 9 tells us that two is better than one. In other words, it s not good to be alone in life. It doesn t mean you can t live alone or work alone. But we need other people involved in our daily lives. Why do we need people? Let s break it down. Verse 9: Verse 10: Verse 11: Verse 12: What do you conclude after reading these verses? My friend, Denise, and I claimed these verses for our friendship years ago. Denise knows everything about me and I know everything about her. We have been through the worst of times together and the best of times together. It s the worst of times where our friendship has strengthened the most. Those times that one of us could help pick the other up, keep the other warm and stand up for the other. Usually, when I am weak, she is the strong friend and vice versa. We joke that if we ever were on the downside at the same time, we d be in trouble! But as we read Ecclesiastes 12, there is a solution to that. Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. v. 12

35 Check out the last line. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. I ve read a lot of commentaries on this. There are several thoughts, but here s what I gather from it: We can look at a cord of three strands to be me, you and another person. Or we can look at it as me, you and God. Either way, it s better. Two are strong, but three are stronger. You gals with long hair know this to be true. Grab two sections of your hair and twist it. Then let go. What happens? It unravels. Now divide your hair into three sections and braid it. Let go at the end of the braid. And my point is made. Two strands unravel easily. Three don t. We need people. And lonely people especially need people. God didn t put us on earth to be alone. Back to the money issue. When I wrote that money could solve many of my problems, that s not really true. Sure, it could fix a few things to make life more convenient for me. But it couldn t replace a person. It could never meet the desires of my heart. I d never be content with lots of pretty functioning things and no people to share them with. In closing, I want us to examine our lives as they are today. Is there something you have that you believe if you had more of, you d be happier? Is there someone in your life who you have that Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 relationship with? If so, thank God for them right now. Is there someone you ve noticed that could use a kind gesture, word of recognition or invitation? If so, how can you act on that?

36 Let s pray a simple prayer today: Dear Lord, Will you give us opportunities to notice the lonely people in our communities, neighborhoods, churches, sidelines, grocery stores and all around us today? And God, when we do notice them, please help us to act wisely and with love. Give us specific words or actions that we can say or do to let them know they are seen, loved and valued. Amen. NOTES

37 THURSDAY, WEEK 4 Chapter 8 Bible Study Can you believe over the course of our Listen, Love Repeat OBS, we ve completed seven Bible study lessons? Great job, everybody! With only three lessons left, I want each of us to begin to exercise our own Bible study muscles. So, what does this mean? Up until today, I ve given you passages to read and then questions to ponder or answer. Today it s your turn to lead yourself in your Bible study. You can do this! I believe that while having a Bible study leader is awesome, God designed each of us to read and discern His Word on our own, too. I love reading the books we select for OBS. But I don t ever want to miss God s Word in them. While some of our books are very practical, God s Word is the foundation of each of them. Listen, Love, Repeat is no exception. Hopefully, you ve already read Chapter 8, The Cranky and Cantankerous. If not, do that first and make sure you highlight or make note of each time you see a Bible verse mentioned. In my book, I write BIBLE real big beside it and highlight it. List the Bible verses below if that helps! Right off the bat, we see our verse of the week on page 169. Our verse of the week is part of another passage mentioned a few pages later. Here s where you begin leading yourself. Turn to Luke 6:27-36 in your Bible or Bible app. We are returning to the words of Jesus here. We ll read it in just a minute, but first read on! This passage is on page 177 of our Listen, Love, Repeat book, but it s important for us to read it for ourselves in our Bibles. I know, and you know, that Karen Ehman is a trustworthy person. But when it comes to God s Word, we don t want to just take someone s word for it. Check it out for yourself!

38 As you read this passage, make a list of what Jesus tells us to do (Yes, this is Jesus speaking, so we better listen up, right?). Write down the questions you read in this passage and answer them for yourself. Take time to record anything that sticks out to you. Also, if your Bible has verses beside the passage, take the time to look those up too, and see what God reveals to you. Don t rush through this independent exercise. Begin by praying and asking God to speak to you through His Word and for you to be open to receive it. Write your prayer here: Now, read Luke 6: Record your notes here:

39 So, how d you do? What s your takeaway from the Bible reading you just did? Why do you think it s so important for us to love our enemies and do good to those who hate us? Karen explains on page 178: God showed us great mercy and kindness, by overlooking our faults and forgiving our sins through His Son s shed blood on the cross, we in turn need to show mercy and kindness to those who seem hard to love. We must recognize that we too, at our very core, are unlovable as well. It s hard to argue with that! Now, I m turning the rest of this lesson over to you. Continue through Chapter 8, beginning on page 178. Write down and look up any references to the Bible you find and record what you learn from them. 1. (Hint: page 178) 2. (Hint: page 183)

40 3. (Hint: page 184) 4. (Hint: page 184) 5. (Hint: page 185)

41 6. (Hint: page 185) 7. (Hint page 187) I remember the first time I learned I could actually read the Bible. Just the Bible. I was in college. I had been to Sunday school throughout my life and looked up verses the teacher gave us. But when I realized it was personal for me well, that changed everything. Jesus became not just my Savior, but my friend. Not just my Savior. I realized He wants to really know me and for me to really know Him and His Father. The same is true for you, too. The Bible wasn t written to intimidate or make us feel guilty. It was written so God could give me and you all we need to live life on this earth. We find freedom within its pages. And anytime what we read doesn t feel like freedom, we can trust it s wise and for our protection. Within its pages we find hope, love and life. Reading and studying the Bible for ourselves is important. I love a good Bible study book! But what I like even more is that God s Word is enough.

42 NOTES

43 TUESDAY, WEEK 5 Chapter 9 Bible Study In Chapter 9, Karen Ehman gives us a verse on page 196 for when it s you versus them. Get out your Bible and read Proverbs 15:1. Write this verse here: Some versions say a soft answer and some say gentle. Either way, the point is clear. What do we learn from this verse and how can we put it into practice? Will this be a struggle for you? Because I actually opened my Bible to read Proverbs 15:1, the verse following it also grabbed my attention. So did the next one and the next. Before I knew it, I was all in and focused on reading all of Proverbs 15. Wow! What wise words! And I don t want any of us to miss them. The chapter is full of wisdom that can help us in our relationships. So, let s all read on

44 Read Proverbs 15. Write down any wise words you want to pay close attention to and those you need to put into practice. Journal any other thoughts that come to mind as you read this chapter. Take your time with this. Allow God to speak to you personally. Note: Often when I read the Bible, I think, Wow, really needs to read this! Today, let s not do this. It happens more easily than you think, probably because it s easier to see how others need to change than it is to admit what things we need to change. Read this chapter for yourself. For you and you alone.

45 What did you gain from reading Chapter 15 for yourself? How do you think these words could be helpful in your relationships? Is there a specific person who comes to mind that you need to seek forgiveness from because of the words you ve spoken? What specific things can you do to make your words encouraging and more Christlike?

46 Bonus work: Continue and do the same thing with Chapter 16.

47 THURSDAY, WEEK 5 Chapter 10 Bible Study Some of you will love me for this. Others of you will be mad at me. But, I encourage you all to take the challenge. The past two Bible study lessons were handed over to you. I may have guided you a little bit, but you did the work and came to your own conclusions. Today, I give this lesson totally to you. Why? It s not because I m lazy. It s because I want you to get into God s Word for yourself. Chapter 10 is not short on its share of Scripture. Go back through chapter 10 and write your own Bible study. Include Bible reading, lingering, pondering and revelation. In other words, read each passage Karen mentions. Linger in those passages, don t rush through them. Write down your thoughts. When you re in God s Word, those thoughts could indeed be words for you from God. Ponder them and discover what God is revealing to you. I ll pray for us: Dear Lord, Thank you for the Bible. Thank you that Your Word is available to each of us. First Lord, we ask that You remove any distractions in our way. As we read Your Word and truths today, please speak to us personally. Slow us down to soak in all it contains for us today. Help us read, linger, ponder and expect a revelation from You. If for any reason we feel like we aren t hearing from You, help us experience Your presence. Reassure us that You are there, because we know You are. Thank You, Lord. It s in Jesus Name we pray, amen. Now, it s your turn to write your own Bible study based on Chapter 10 of Listen, Love, Repeat. I ll give you a few points to consider to help you get started! 1. Pick the passage of Scripture you want to unpack. 2. What key words or phrases do you want to study more about? 3. What are your practical application steps? (Example: Writing out or memorizing verses, implementing action in your own life) 4. What's a personal example you can bring into this? Okay, get started!

48 Bonus work: The exercise of writing your own Bible study was for you and you alone. However, if you are doing this study as a part of a small group, or with a friend, consider swapping Bible studies after you ve written it. This allows for you to learn from your own study as well as benefit from someone else s.

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50 Dear OBSers, Thank you for your participation in our Listen, Love, Repeat OBS. This Bible study was a new component to our online Bible study and I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did. It s my prayer you gained great insight into the Scripture we studied and that your life has been changed by the power of God's Word! Even though this is the end of our Bible study for Listen, Love, Repeat, don't let this be the end of your personal Bible study! Keep spending time in God's Word daily. Strive to connect with God through prayer. Also, stay connected to the community you ve built through the Listen, Love, Repeat OBS. I can t wait to study with you again soon! I love you all and have really loved studying the Bible with you! Melissa