What We Have in the Word

Mike Sullivan
James 1:18-25

When we are in the midst of difficult times, James calls us to realize what a treasure we have in the Word. Trials can lead to temptation to turn away from God's way and toward our own solutions. The Word is not like any other spiritual text, it is the power of God. If we realize what we have in the Word, receive it, and act upon it, then we will be blessed.

Getting the Most Out of God's Word

Scott Risley
James 1:19-27

James urges his readers to not just listen to the Word, but to act on it. Regularly reading and actively responding to God's word is a critical part of spiritual growth. In order to maintain a habit of effective time in scripture, Christians should talk to God about what they are reading, let Him know they want to hear from Him, and ask what they can do that day. Other helpful tips are to have a plan for reading, setting aside a time and quiet place each day, and ignoring the lie that it's hopeless.

Two Ways

Conrad Hilario
Psalms 1:1-6

The book of Psalms teach us how to relate honestly to God, how to praise and thank Him, and how to affirm what is true in the midst of difficult circumstances or emotions. In Psalm 1 we see that the primary characteristic of the righteous is that their lives are rooted in and nourished by God's Word. This requires making time for reading scripture, minimizing distractions, and prioritizing quality over quantity.

Learning to Meditate

James Rochford
Psalms 1:1-6

Psalm 1 draws a contrast between the "blessed" and the "wicked." The blessed person is the one who delights in God's Word, which brings happiness, stability, and guidance. To experience this blessing, we must learn to meditate regularly on scripture.

The Enduring Word

Ben Foust
1 Peter 1:22-2:3

Peter explains that unlike human words, the Word of God (the Bible) is unchanging and enduring, leading us to salvation and bringing about our spiritual growth. Peter urges the reader to long for God's word which, when read regularly, renews the mind, convicts the heart, and nourishes the soul.

Why and How to Memorize Scripture

Ryan Weingartner
1 Peter 1:22-2:3

There are many benefits to memorizing Scripture that are referenced in the Word itself and that we can observe ourselves. Memorizing scripture can impact our lives in many areas in ways that other forms of study might not. Ryan explains many different helpful strategies for memorizing Scripture along with their advantages and disadvantages. He also give suggestions of verses to start with that will help to begin memorizing Scripture.

Prophecy and the Bible

Gary DeLashmutt
1 Peter 1:22-2:3

The Bible is among many scriptures claiming to be true. One of the reasons we can put our trust in it, and it alone, is because it uniquely offers detailed fulfilled prophesy.

Suffering - Pastoral Care or Apologetics?

Pat Reeder
1 Peter 3:15

Unfortunately some of us have been perpetrators or victims of apologetics used during sensitive and difficult times that are cringe-worthy. How do we balance providing truth and biblical answers in times of suffering with being a caring and sensitive friend? This workshop helps practically break down scenarios and address appropriate responses to others' suffering based on timing and relationship, amongst other factors. As we learn some practical steps in both pastoral cases and apologetical cases, we become better equipped to provide thoughtful responses to others around us.

And He is Not Silent - The Grace of God Speaking

Chris Deken
1 Peter 3:15

Because God has spoken to us through His Word and through His creation, we have the ability to know Him personally. God chooses to communicate with us, giving us both certainty and security. We can respond to God speaking to us by studying His Word and imparting it to others!\r\n