Why do a Bible Study? – January 28, 2021

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.

-Hebrews 12:1

Why do a Bible Study? It’s like exercise: I knew I should, it was good for me, and I felt better when I did it. But the reality is I rarely did. On my own, I was not consistent in reading and studying scripture, and I often needed help understanding how it applied to my life.

Then I found BBT. My desire to learn and grow with others became an aspiration, and then a calling, and I took the leap of faith and formed a group to study the Bible together. I had to silence my fears and focus on the one reason I should start a BBT group – I needed it. Some of the reasons I thought it would never work proved false once I got underway on creating a Bible study group. These included:

• No one wants to do this. To my surprise, as I talked to people about it, I found they had the same desire to study the Bible and find ways to apply it to their lives. They believed, as I did, that somehow this would make their lives better.
• I don’t have time to do all the work to develop a weekly Bible study. BBT solved that problem by providing me with Bible studies that are easy to prepare and lead. These studies are written to help people apply the lessons to all aspects of life, and especially the workplace – often the most difficult place to live out faith. In addition, the lessons are so well-written and structured that anyone in our group can facilitate the discussion, creating a shared leadership opportunity that gives each of us a chance to develop our leadership skills.
• It will get stale and people will drop out. In fact, our Bible study group has become a must-attend weekly event – whether in-person or virtual. It is a highlight of the week as we learn, share and give each other the encouragement needed to live faithfully each day.

So, why a BBT Bible study? Because I find encouragement and strength to faithfully live my life each day. Because sharing the hurts and concerns of my life with others, and knowing they will pray for me throughout the week, gives me courage to move forward. Because celebrating the joys and successes of life with others somehow makes them even better.

Why do a Bible study? Because I need it. I need it to help me live my life in a way that is faithful to the love and grace God has provided for me.

Are you ready to take the leap of faith and study the Bible with others? BBT is here to help.

Gary Dollar is a partner with EMD Consulting, focused on helping nonprofits build organizational strength. Gary has more than 30 years of experience and expertise in providing leadership to the development, board and organizational dimensions of nonprofits. Gary has successful experience in fundraising, marketing, board development and establishing and focusing on strategic direction. Gary enjoys helping nonprofits build new levels of success by establishing a stable foundation in the midst of today’s rapidly changing environment. Gary is on several nonprofit boards and teaches the Executive Certificate in Religious Fundraising for Indiana University's School of Philanthropy Lake Institute on Faith and Giving. Gary has received numerous awards including the Association of Fundraising Professionals Lifetime Achievement Award.

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