STEP Program: Genesis 1:1-2
Genesis 1:1-2 (NIV): "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters."
Bible Study
Approach:
No Rush: Instead of rushing through Genesis, we'll focus on the opening verses, recognizing the profound theological implications they carry.
Small Segments:
Example: Genesis 1:1-2 introduces key themes: creation, the nature of God, and the Holy Spirit's presence.
Method: Break it down:
Verse 1: God's role as Creator, the establishment of time ("In the beginning"), and the scope of creation ("heavens and earth").
Verse 2: The initial state of the world (formless and empty), the presence of darkness, and the Spirit of God actively engaging with creation.
Slow Reading:
Technique: Read these verses slowly, pondering each word. "In the beginning" - what does this imply about God's existence? "Created" - what does this say about God's power and intent?
Mental Imagery: Envision the vast emptiness, the darkness, and then the Spirit of God, full of purpose and power, hovering over the waters. Picture the transition from chaos to the ordered world that will follow.
Meditation
Focused Meditation:
Verse Repetition: Choose "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." Meditate on the sovereignty and creativity of God.
Process: In silence, repeat the verse, allowing the concept of God as the origin of all to permeate your thoughts. Consider what it means for your life that God is the Creator.
Scene Visualization:
Imagination: Visualize this scene. See the void, the darkness, and then the Spirit, like a breath or a bird, gently but powerfully moving over the waters.
Application: Place yourself in this creation moment. How does knowing you are part of this divine creation affect your self-worth, your purpose, or your faith?
Prayer
Application to Life:
Lesson Activation: Pray that the truth of God as Creator shapes your everyday life, giving you peace in His order and plan.
Confession and Request:
Struggles: If you've struggled with doubts about the purpose or randomness of life, confess these to God, asking for a deeper understanding of His creative intent.
Past Mistakes: Reflect on times you've forgotten the sacredness of life or the world around you, seeking forgiveness and a renewed commitment to stewardship.
Future Guidance: Ask for wisdom to live in accordance with the knowledge that you are part of God's creation, treating yourself and others with respect and love.
Bold Requests:
Testing Faith: Pray for opportunities to affirm your faith in God's creative power in practical ways. Perhaps you'll ask for chances to witness or share this truth with others or to see God's hand in the natural world, strengthening your belief and gratitude.
By applying the STEP method to Genesis 1:1-2, you engaged with these verses not just intellectually but spiritually, allowing them to shape your understanding of God, your place in His creation, and how you live out that truth daily.
