As we gathered for Bible study, we began by reflecting on Joshua 1:9, returning to where our year began and considering how the word courage has continued to shape our journey through Scripture and through life.

We revisited two words that have become important to our conversations: formation and transformation. Formation asks what is taking place within us—what is shaping our thoughts, attitudes, and responses. Transformation asks what is changing in the way we live as our minds are renewed by the Word of God.

Our study continued in Exodus 14:16–21. Before gathering, participants had received several Scriptures to read and reflect on, including Psalm 46:10, 1 Corinthians 10:1–11, and Hebrews 3:16–19. As we read and discussed the passages, we made connections across Scripture and considered what those connections might reveal about our own lives.

One observation that emerged was the importance of remembering God’s deliverance. When God brings us through difficult circumstances, gratitude and remembrance matter. We do not want to become so focused on what comes next that we overlook what God has already done.

This led us back to our GROW tree and a question that continues to guide our study:

What is God forming in you?

We wanted to be intentional about looking inward rather than concentrating on the problems or shortcomings of others. It takes courage to examine our own hearts, recognize what has shaped us, and allow God’s Word to challenge and change us.

Our conversation about remaining connected to God led us to Psalm 1. The picture of a tree planted by streams of water gave us another way to consider the importance of staying rooted in the Word. A life grounded in God’s instruction is compared to a tree that receives what it needs and bears fruit in its season. Connection is not simply about reading words; it is about allowing God’s Word to shape how we live.

We also considered Isaiah 43:3–5 and God’s declaration of His love, care, and presence toward Israel. This opened a thoughtful conversation about trust. Could God be forming trust in His people even as they were still learning to recognize the depth of His love and faithfulness? We considered how God’s formation is not simply about pointing out what is wrong with us. He continues to lead, teach, and shape His people.

As we reflected on love and maturity, we also discussed how growing in our relationship with God can change the way we see ourselves and others. Comparison, envy, jealousy, fear, and scarcity can influence the way we think and respond. These patterns can become deeply rooted over time. Yet Romans 12:1–2 reminds us that our minds can be renewed and our lives transformed.

Hebrews 3:16–19 brought another dimension to the discussion. We considered Israel’s repeated struggles with unbelief and their desire to return to what was familiar. Numbers 14 gives us a particularly striking example: after the report of the spies, the people spoke of returning to Egypt and even discussed appointing another leader. We asked ourselves whether this is still a common human response—wanting to return to what we know, even when God is leading us forward.

Psalm 46:10 also invited us to consider what it means to be still and know that God is God. In connection with Exodus 14, we reflected on the difference between allowing fear to control our thoughts and learning to recognize God’s presence and direction. Israel was told to stand firm, and then to move forward. Being still did not mean remaining inactive; it meant trusting God rather than surrendering to fear.

Some important questions emerged:

• How do I know God loves me?
• How do I know I can trust Him?

Rather than answering only in general terms, we turned those questions inward. What has helped me recognize God’s love? Where have I experienced His faithfulness? What does my own journey reveal about the trust I am learning to place in Him?

The account of the pillar of cloud gave us another opportunity to look closely at the text. The pillar that had been leading Israel moved behind them and stood between the Israelites and the Egyptians. What had been guiding them also became a means of protection in that moment. We considered how God’s presence and care may be at work even when we do not fully recognize what He is doing.

As we engaged with God’s Word, I noticed how the discussion began to unfold naturally. People were asking questions, sharing observations, making connections, and discovering what the Scriptures were revealing to them.

What stood out to me was that we were not simply receiving information or being told what the Word meant for our lives. There was room to look more closely at the text, hear different perspectives, and allow questions to remain open for further reflection. Hebrews 4:12 reminds us that God’s Word is living and powerful. It reaches beyond the surface and discerns the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

As we continue through Exodus, we are learning that courage is not merely the absence of fear. It involves learning to trust God, recognize His presence, and respond to His direction. And as we remain connected to His Word, we give Him room to form us and renew the way we think and live.

We closed with two questions to carry with us:

What does trust look like in Exodus 14?

How will I recognize when trust is forming in me?

These are questions worth continuing to consider—not only as we study Israel’s journey, but as we pay attention to our own.

GROW — Greater Revelation of God’s Word. Understand • Live • Grow.