Read, Reflect, & Respond

Highlight: Begin your Bible reading time with prayer then highlight verses that stand out to you as you read the passage. Note any words or ideas you want to dive deeper into and pay attention to repeated or emphasized words and phrases. This is the “observation” process – looking at the who, what, when, where of the passage.

Explain: What is the context of the passage and the author’s intended meaning within that context? This is where you can consult a study Bible or commentary. What did the passage mean to the original listeners? Was there something in their context that was being addressed? This step is to understand what the meaning of the passage was then before you seek to understand what the applied principle is today.

Apply: What is the principle to live by today? This is when you turn the focus to your own life, setting, and culture. What is the principle that applies to your own context?

Respond: How will you respond to the application in your relationships and/or situations this week? This recognizes that the Bible is not just a set of truths to know, but is actually a guide to live by.

Discuss With Others

Use your community group time to have some conversation around the message. Start your discussion by inviting someone to read the passage aloud in its entirety.

1. What is something that struck or resonated with you from Psalm 131? 
2. In what ways do you find yourself operating out of your own strength, thinking that you are competent to manage and control your own life? Where are you carrying more than you are able? 
3. How does remembering all that God has done in Christ and given you by his Spirit calm and quiet your heart?
4. How would quieting your soul change your schedule, your relationships, your marriage, your parenting, your work, etc.? 
5. What are some obstacles that keep you from quieting your heart and living out of a deep contentment in the Lord? How can others help you, and you help others?