I’m very thankful you want to learn more about the Bible; the more we let its truth sink into our hearts and minds, the more God will use it to change our lives. As the Bible says, “The word of God is alive and active” (Hebrews 4:12).

Don’t give up on this group; if members are truly studying the Bible, you can learn from this experience. How can you get more out of it? Let me suggest three steps that might help you. First, pray, asking God to help you understand the passage(s) you’ll be reading together. Then, prepare. Find out what the group will be reading next week, then study it and become familiar with it. Finally, practice; that is, pay attention to what’s being said (even taking notes), then recall it afterward and apply it to your life.

Let me urge you also not to worry because you aren’t adding to the discussion. The important thing isn’t to make an impression on others, but to allow God to make an impression on us through His Word. As you become acquainted with the group (and also as you become more familiar with the Bible) you may feel more comfortable contributing.

As a footnote, I hope you’ll also take advantage of other opportunities to discover the Bible — through your pastor’s sermons, through gifted Bible teachers on Christian radio, and so forth. The Psalmist prayed, “Give me understanding to learn your commands” (Psalm 119:73).
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