Trustworthy: A Study of 1 & 2 Kings- Lysa Terkeurst writes in the very beginning of this study, "The Books of 1 and 2 Kings have never been high on my list of priorities to study." I think many of us can relate to that statement as well. It is easy to see these Old Testament books and think they aren't relatable or relevant. However, just as she discovered writing this study, I have learned how much I needed these lessons, to grow my trust in God and learned how there are actually many similarities between me and the kings in Israel. This study says it is video based but I did the study book without purchasing the videos and didn't feel I was missing anything vital. It would be great added material but isn't absolutely necessary for the study. Lysa Terkeurst is such a gifted writer and I always enjoy reading anything by her. This study is filled with nuggets of wisdom and insight- it's one of those books you just want to highlight every sentence because it is so good! This study digs deep and asks questions to guide you on reflecting on your own life in relation to the text. It also clarifies hard to understand passages that I may normally gloss over. God is trustworthy. This study will help to solidify that truth in your heart.
David: Seeking a Heart Like His- This study takes you through the life of David- all the ups and downs, the heartbreak and adventure. Through this study I thought a lot about how much God favored David and called him a man after his own heart. I think about the terrible mistakes David had made and yet God still loved him and pursued him and never gave up. This study has been a beautiful reminder that God isn't looking for perfection. He cares about our heart and our motives, our true desires and our willingness to repent and reach out to Him. God wants our whole hearts. He is faithful and mighty and oh so wonderful. Beth Moore is another excellent teacher and digs deep into the life of David while also bringing in personal applications and plenty of space for reflection.
Come and See: A Study on the Gospel of John- This is a great study that walks you through the book of John. Through this study I have grown to know Jesus better and more intimately. I love seeing his character revealed through the pages of John. Diving in to who Jesus is is always refreshing and rejuvenating for the soul. No matter how many times you read about Jesus, you will always discover something new and grow deeper in your relationship with Him. I like that each day you read a good chunk of scripture followed by a deeper understanding of the text and three or so questions to reflect on what you just read. It is a great study if you don't have a significant amount of time to study but also want more than just a short 5 minute devotional. Each study usually takes me 20 minutes to read and answer the study questions whereas the studies above would take longer. As with many study books or time in the Word, it is what you make of it. Some days when I have more time I will do two of the study days. Other days I will do copy work which is copying down a few verses in my journal or in the back of this study book. Copy work has been a new favorite part of my quiet time as a way to focus on writing each word, meditating slowly on the scripture word by word and really sitting with it as a I write.