I believe in stories. Most of what I write here is me processing life as I seek God as the author of all our stories. So, really, it should be no surprise author Donald Miller’s approach to living life as if you’re telling a story works for me.
“It’s interesting that in the Bible, in the book of Ecclesiastes, the only practical advice given about living a meaningful life is to find a job you like, enjoy your marriage, and obey God. It’s as though God is saying, ‘Write a good story, take somebody with you, and let me help.'”
{Donald Miller in “A Million Miles in a Thousand Years“}
Donald Miller further developed this idea of living out our stories in his workbook called “Storyline: Finding Your Subplot in God’s Story.” It’s a book I’ve had sitting on my desk, awaiting time and attention. I really wanted a group to go through the book with me so we could discuss our stories along the way.
Last week, God gave me an idea. I found myself asking myself, “What if you lead an online study of Storyline?” As I read the introduction to “Storyline,” I found myself thinking of specific dreamer and writer friends. I emailed some of them. This study in this season isn’t going to work for everyone. I know that.
But God nudged my heart. And now I putting it out there.
“As a writer, I see the Bible as a story. It’s a story about unrequited love. It’s a story about a God who loves a world that, for the most part, ignores Him. It’s a sad story, but it has a great ending. In the end, God gets the girl back.
In a way, that story has already been written. It mean it hasn’t happened yet, but for a God who lives outside time, it’s as good as done. And yet, the role you and I get to play in that story is still unfolding. And not only this, but we actually get to decide our little part.
All epic stories have subplots, and each of our lives is a subplot. What we want to accomplish at Storyline is simple: We want to help people live a great subplot in God’s story.”{From the introduction to “Storyline” by Donald Miller}
Us is a group of women who believe our stories matter as chapters in God’s story. {Specifically, I know my friend Holly is in!} You can be a writer, but you don’t have to be a writer. You can have a grasp on some of the details in your story, or you could have no idea what this chapter is about. {And, sorry to you few men who read this blog, this is going to be a women’s only group.}
So, who’s in? Please let me know if you have questions. I’ve lead Bible studies in person before, but this is the first time I’ve ever done anything like this. There may be some kinks, but we’ll work them out. Feel free to pass this along to any other women you think may be interested. And don’t forget to sign up if you want to join us.
With this post, I’m joining Jen Ferguson’s Soli Deo Gloria Party, an online place that taught me virtual friendships are real.
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Oh, how I love your heart, for God, for community, for gathering together and being real and pursuing, together, His heart! Bless you, friend, as you go forward, listening, trusting all that He has.
Thanks, Jennifer! I hope you'll join us for the discussion even if you'll be ahead of us in the study. 🙂
I love this idea. My plate is full right now … but I'd love to join you on another book, if you do this again.
Fondly,
Glenda
ps. I have had different stages of life where money was tight … I'd encourage you to ask God to provide you the money for the book and then pay attention to what happens. (for those that want to do the study, but don't have the money.)
Thanks for the encouragement, Glenda! I'll let you know if/when I do it again. 🙂
Thanks for that encouragement. 🙂