We’re three meetings into women’s Bible study this fall. I missed the middle week after Grace was born (which seemed eternal!), so my heart was warmed to be back last week. It was such a joy to find the group engaged in heartfelt conversation about the Women of the Word reading, learning together, sharing wisdom and insight with one another, and opening up to pray for each other in real, vulnerable ways. There was a remarkable unity after just a few meetings!

There is something unique about the way studying the Bible together unifies and links believers to one another. In her book, Bible Study: Following the Ways of the Word, Kathleen Nielson states that, “…the actual study of the Bible is the foundation of the personal, relational aspect of the gathering… we come together to take in the words of our God who is there and who made us, loves us, and speaks to us—and who binds us together in a unity of the Spirit, which is stronger than the ties we can create ourselves.” In Bible study, the playing field is level. We’re all reading the same thing, united in purpose, with one heart and one mind. That’s what Paul longed for the Philippian church to experience, too. He says in Philippians 2:1-2, “So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind.”

Praise God, that’s where we’re headed! To all the ladies of Crossroads who aren’t able to join us on Fridays, rest assured that you are no less a part of this oneness. Whether you are reading Women of the Word with us or not, whether working or at home, single or married, you’re a part of something larger than the 10 women who are meeting at New City church for the study as you study the Bible yourself. We pray for you at our meetings, and want to encourage you to “take in the words of our God who is there [with you] and who made [you], loves [you], and speaks to [you]!” We look forward to the next opportunity to meet together with you, too.

May God’s favor rest on you,

Erin Butzin