Have you ever sat in your women’s Bible study group, looked around and noticed one of the following elements?
Everyone looks bored.
The majority of women didn’t prioritize their homework.
More time was spent on shallow socializing than discussing Scripture.
One lady has done all the talking.
There’s been no new people in the last six months.
You frequently forget the topic of your group’s current study.
If noticed frequently and consistently, these could be signs of an unhealthy women’s Bible study group. I would take it a step further and say this could be a Bible study that Satan loves.
Satan would love the above scenario because he loves to produce shallow bible studies and surface level conversation between Christian women. He loves to provoke subtle sins (1 John 3:8). He loves to lead women astray from their pure devotion to Christ (2 Corinthians 11:3). He loves to prompt women to grieve the Holy Spirit (Acts 5:3). He loves to shy women away from speaking truth (John 8:44). He loves to busy women with the concerns of the world (Matthew 16:23). He loves to plant doubt (Genesis 3:1-5). Satan loves to outwit us in our ignorance (2 Corinthians 2:10-11).
But most of all… Satan loves to make women fear or be apathetic toward scripture. If he can accomplish this, then he will take a victory that consists of shallow conversations, apathetic service, heartless works, meaningless relationships, and self-serving literature. His victory will be slow, but the Enemy is patient.
How can we heal this epidemic of Satan’s women’s Bible study groups? Through scripture, we see at least three healing practices that you can bring to your women’s Bible study group the next time you meet.
1. Expect much of God
Satan and his demons believe God is active (James 2:19). They shudder in fear of God’s presence. They expect and acknowledge and hate the power God exudes. The truth is that there are times that Satan believes more of God than even His own children believe of Him. Has your group lost their awe and wonder for the Father? Shape your discussion, study topics, and focus toward renewing your wonder in the Lord God.
2. Repent in humility
God calls us to this in a vast majority of Scripture. One portion that especially applies to this blog is 2 Chronicles 7:13-16, “If My people, who bear My name, humble themselves, pray and seek My face, and turn from their evil ways, then I will hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land (v14).” Pray first that you and those in your group will experience the Holy Spirit’s conviction. Second, personally lament and repent over the apathetic attitude you have nurtured toward Scripture and draw your community to do likewise.
3. Hunger and thirst for more of God
Psalm 42:1-2 exhibits David crying out, “As a deer longs for flowing streams, so I long for You, God. I thirst for God, the living God. When can I come and appear before God?” This is a heart cry. David is desperate for a sliver of taste of God’s Word and presence. How can you get there? How can your group get there? Recognize your need for the Truth of God and then implore Him for more of it.
Does Satan love your women’s Bible study? Turn the tables and make war against this fickle lover. Shake the gates of Hell with the prayers of your faithful women. Scatter his minions with your feet planted firmly on God’s Word. Thwart his plans with humble heart cries to the Lord God. Make war, beloved. Make war for the glory of God.
END NOTE:
Hannah will be co-leading a Women’s Theology Group with J.L. Price starting in May. This CRBC Women’s League of Theology will have an informational meeting on May 5th at Hannah’s house (2314 NW 49th St, OKC, OK, 73112) at 7pm. Come visit this meeting to hear more details on the theology group. All women are invited to join.
Meet the Author!
Hannah Hanzel is an opinionated, passionate gal that loves sharing what God is doing in her often busy and complicated life. She strives to show God's glory in working as the Art Director for the Baptist Messenger, serving as a multi-client freelance graphic designer, and communing with CRBC. When she's not working, you can find her sipping coffee in a hammock, watching classic '40s movies, or going on an adventure with friends or family.
