Journal your answers to these questions as you read through the chapter each week. You may wish to read one day and journal the next, or spread the questions over the whole week. If you don't have "The Story" then read through the chapters of the Bible listed for each day.

DAY ONE
Read Genesis 1-2

1. In the beginning God created humanity to be in perfect relationship with Him. His mission was to have a loving relationship with us in which God and humankind worked in harmony to care for creation together. Have you ever thought of God’s creation story in this way before? Why? If not, what has gotten in the way?
2. In Genesis 1:26-27 (The Story pp.2-3) says that we are made in the image of God. How can you actually reflect the image of God?

DAY TWO
Read Genesis 3

1. Sin enters and Adam and Eve are cast out of the garden. What do you see as the driving factor in their decision to disobey? What things drive you away from God in your life? Have there been times you knew you made a choice opposed to what God might want for you? What was the result and the consequences that followed?
2. Despite Adam and Eve’s disobedience, God sought a way to redeem the situation and their choices. What did God do in response to their choice? How has God responded to you in your life when you have made choices according to your own desires, not God’s? How has God redeemed the situation or offered his grace?

DAY THREE
Read Genesis 6-9

1. Noah and his family clung to the one thing they knew was reliable, trusting and obeying God. How did God honor their desire to be faithful? Think of a time when you were seeking to be faithful to God and made a decision based on that desire. What was the result?
2. Despite all our stubborn ways, God always seems up for a good challenge. When you look at the lives of Adam, Eve and Noah’s family, what do you think God thought of their disobedience? Did it drive God away or drive him to try new tactics to connect with them? What ways is God trying to reach you?
3. Have you seen a theme about God’s desire for his people in the Creation story and Noah’s story? What is it? How have you seen God’s faithful persistence towards his people play out in your life? The life of your family and friends?

PRAYER
God,
We thank you for the way you created this world and everything in it, including us. We ask for your excitement as we begin this journey through The Story. You have given us a view that is spectacular. Help us to appreciate the beauty of your creation. We give praise to you, God for the people in our lives who have revealed your grace, love, and presence to us. Thank you that you love us and pursue us, even when we are not embracing your will and desires for us. We seek you God.
Amen

Journal your answers to these questions as you read through the chapter each week. You may wish to read one day and journal the next, or spread the questions over the whole week. If you don't have "The Story" then read through the chapters of the Bible listed for each day.

DAY ONE
Read Genesis 12:1-5, 15:1-6, 21:1-7 and 22:1-19

1. God asked Abraham to sacrifice his only son, Isaac, for two reasons: first, to test his faith and, second, to point to the future sacrifice of the heavenly Father’s only Son. Is there an area of your life that God is calling you to “sacrifice” or entrust to Him? Identify the next step you need to take.
2. God’s chosen people are both faithful and flawed. List the “faithful” attributes of either Abraham or Sarah that you want to follow. List the “flawed” attributes and mistakes of either Abraham or Sarah that you want to avoid.
3. When God does not deliver on his promise to provide offspring for Abram, he starts to take matters into his own hands (p. 15-16 or Gen. 16:1-6). Despite his good intentions, this caused several complications for him domestically. When have you tried to take things into your own hands or force God into action? What was the result?

DAY TWO
Read Genesis 16:7-16, 21:8-21, and 27:1-45

1. The maidservant Hagar fled from Sarah’s harsh treatment. Alone, hurting, and in despair, God saw her. But she also saw Him and declared, “I have now seen the One who sees me” (p. 16 or Gen. 16:13). When have you seen God most vividly acting in your life? 
2. Esau and Jacob are prime examples of sibling rivals. We learn from the story that they were estranged for more than twenty years. What life lessons can be gleaned from observing each character throughout their reconciliation? Can these life lessons be applied to an estranged relationship of your own?

DAY THREE
Read Genesis 28:10-22

1. In the midst of a deep, personal crisis in Jacob’s life, we read about a curious struggle in the wilderness (p. 23-24 or Gen. 28:10-22). In the end, Jacob’s name was changed to Israel because he struggled with God and man and overcame. (In the ancient world, a name represented the character of a person.) Identify a crisis in your own life that entailed “wrestling” with God. If God was to change your name to represent the outcome, what do you suppose it would be?
2. Nearly everyone has experienced the playground process of “choosing teams.” Compare the way God chooses His “team” with the way you choose your “team.” Who in your life do you need to see from God’s perspective?

PRAYER
God,
Thank you for the older people you have placed in our lives who have been a model of faith for us. You call each of us, at various times, to follow you in ways that are risky and demand faith. We confess we’ve missed opportunities in the past to step out in faith. When you call, help us to sense where you might be leading and to take a bold step of faith and follow you with confidence. We pray for your strength.
Amen

Journal your answers to these questions as you read through the chapter each week. You may wish to read one day and journal the next, or spread the questions over the whole week. If you don't have "The Story" then read through the chapters of the Bible listed for each day.

DAY ONE
Read Genesis 37, 39:1-6

1. Compare the sin of Adam and Eve with the sin of Joseph. Then compare the sin of Joseph’s brothers with that of Cain. What similarities do you discover? What similarities do you see to the sin in your own life? How can the pattern be broken?
2. What character traits do you see in Joseph that made Potiphar trust him (Gen. 39:3 or p. 31)? What do you think it means to have others visibly see that "the LORD is with you"?

DAY TWO
Read Genesis 39:6-23, 40-42

1. How was Joseph able to resist the temptations of Potiphar’s wife? What can you do to protect yourself from sin?
2. Twenty years after his brothers sold him into slavery, they came to Joseph to buy grain. How does Joseph’s story serve as an example to you of forgiveness, trust, and restoration? What is the hardest thing you have ever had to forgive? Be forgiven for?
3. Looking back on his life, Joseph said that what others intended for evil, God intended for good. When has an evil done to you turned out for good? How can you use this to help you in the future? What does this reveal about God?

DAY THREE
Read Genesis 43-45

1. Joseph’s brothers had been lying about his disappearance for 20 years and were afraid of how he might react, especially after their father’s death. They told Joseph a made-up story saying that Jacob had asked them to request that Joseph not harm them. They were having trouble forgiving themselves. Is there a mistake you have made where you’ve found it difficult to forgive yourself?
2. Joseph was betrayed by his brothers, his boss’ wife, and his friends in prison. Instead of becoming bitter, he trusted God. How can you avoid becoming bitter when you are betrayed?
3. Reflect upon the first three chapters of The Story. What family cycles emerge? What life lessons can you apply to your own life from observing these cycles?

PRAYER
God,
Show us where you have been at work shaping and forming, even in the hard times. Show us the lessons you are seeking to teach us that we might have missed. We ask for eyes to see them and a heart to receive and learn. We thank you for the hard times that shaped our character and driven us closer to you. We ask for your comfort, and the courage to embrace it. We ask you God to help us understand the depth of your grace so that we can extend grace to others.
Amen

Journal your answers to these questions as you read through the chapter each week. You may wish to read one day and journal the next, or spread the questions over the whole week. If you don't have "The Story" then read through the chapters of the Bible listed for each day.

DAY ONE
Read Exodus 1-4

1. During the scene at the burning bush, Moses has trouble believing God could use him. Do you think his hesitancy came from his own insecurities or from his lack of faith in God? Are there areas in your life where you feel insecure? How might this story help you?
2. You may never have seen a burning bush, but have you experienced “standing on holy ground” – a time when you definitely felt the presence of God in your life? What was that like? Take a few moments to recall, journal the experience, and thank God for making Himself known in a tangible way.

DAY TWO
Read Exodus 5-7:13

1. When Moses told the Israelite leaders about God’s plan for deliverance, their response was to bow in reverence and worship; Pharaoh’s response was to increase their workload. This was obviously the opposite of what they had hoped for. What strengthens your faith when circumstances turn out differently than you’d hoped?
2. Only God could have solved the Israelites problems. Both Israel and Egypt discovered He alone was LORD. Can you identify a situation in your own life (or someone else’s) that testifies to God’s deliverance alone—that no one else could take credit for? Who could your story serve to encourage?
3. Moses and Aaron received instructions from God and then “did just as the LORD had commanded.” Think of an instruction God has already given you, and how you can be more obedient to it this week.

DAY THREE
Read Exodus 11-12:42, 14:10-31, and 15:22-27

1. Israel celebrated Passover annually and we celebrate communion regularly to remind ourselves corporately of God’s deliverance. What personal reminders could you initiate to celebrate what God has done in your life?
2. Only days after being set free, the Israelites complain, saying they want to go back. Have you ever been tempted to return to a past way of life, even when you know it will be destructive? What attitude change would help you make healthier, more faithful choices?

PRAYER
God,
We ask you to give us a clearer vision of who you are. We pray that it will not be tainted by false understandings and childish images, but shaped by your Word of Truth. Help us to look to none but you for who we are, for our provision, and for our guidance. Even in the wilderness, you are our very life.
Amen

Journal your answers to these questions as you read through the chapter each week. You may wish to read one day and journal the next, or spread the questions over the whole week. If you don't have "The Story" then read through the chapters of the Bible listed for each day.

DAY ONE
Read Exodus 20, 24

1. Moses said, “Do not be afraid. God has come to test you, so that the fear of God will be with you to keep you from sinning” (p. 61 or v. 20:20). Describe what it means to “fear God.” How does your life show that you fear God?
2. Moses was an intermediary between Israel and God. Has there been someone in your life who prayed for you, helped you see God’s will, or acted as a spiritual mentor? Would that type of relationship be a blessing to you today?

DAY TWO
Read Exodus 32-33

1. God continued to use Aaron, even after the Golden Calf debacle. Have you ever felt like your sin disqualified you for service to God? How does Aaron’s story encourage you?
2. Moses prayed to God on Israel’s behalf (p. 66 or vv. 32:31-32). Who in your life needs you to intercede for them? Make a list in your journal and offer a prayer for them now.

DAY THREE
Read Exodus 34

1. Could you be described like God: compassionate, slow to anger, gracious, abounding in loving kindness (p. 68 vv. 34:6-7)? Which of these traits best describes you? Which are most difficult?
2. Moses’ face was radiant because he had spoken with the LORD (p. 69 v. 34:30). What evidence of your relationship with the LORD would others say they see in you?

PRAYER
God,
Thank you for showing us your way that fosters life through the Commandments and your law. Forgive us for how we have fallen short. Forgive us for choosing our own way and hurting others and ourselves. Help us hear again, the promise of life and rescue that Jesus wins through his sacrifice for us. Lead us to follow your way and your law of love.
Amen

Journal your answers to these questions as you read through the chapter each week. You may wish to read one day and journal the next, or spread the questions over the whole week. If you don't have "The Story" then read through the chapters of the Bible listed for each day.

DAY ONE
Read Numbers 12-14

1. Israel’s complaining is a reminder of how easy it is to become ungrateful. List five things you for which you are grateful. How does gratitude change your perspective?
2. God punishes Miriam and Aaron for slandering Moses. Have you ever had to deal with lies spoken against you? How did you handle it? 
3. If you had been the 12 spies, how would you have described the Promised Land?

DAY TWO
Read Numbers 20-21, 27:12-23

1. The Israelites’ journey through the wilderness is one with both great victories and terrible defeat. How do you see God relating to his people when they lose faith in His promises? Is he consistent?
2. How do you relate to God in the midst of great times or great struggles in your own life? How have you seen God respond to you during these times?

DAY THREE
Read Deuteronomy 29-31:8, 34

1. Moses charged Israel to keep God’s commandments and diligently teach them to their children? How can you, whether as a parent or a member of your church community, pass on God’s commandments to the next generation?
2. When he passed on the mantle of leadership, Moses told Joshua to be strong and courageous. Is a lack of courage keeping you from becoming a leader?

PRAYER
God,
With Fatherly love you disciplined the Israelites when they complained against you and wandered their own way. Yet, even then you were gracious and merciful, abounding in steadfast love to provide for them, and shepherd them back to you. May we receive your grace and your discipline when we wander so that we might experience the abundance of your life for the sake of sharing your love with this world.
Amen

Journal your answers to these questions as you read through the chapter each week. You may wish to read one day and journal the next, or spread the questions over the whole week. If you don't have "The Story" then read through the chapters of the Bible listed for each day.

DAY ONE
Read Joshua 1; 3-4

1. What can we learn about godly leadership and succession planning as we watch the baton passed from Moses to Joshua?
2. We often draw black and white lines when we disagree with others. Read Joshua 5:13-14. How do people today co-opt Jesus to ensure He’s on “their side?”

DAY TWO
Read Joshua 2, 6, and 8

1. God gave Joshua assurances to face the coming battles, but Joshua still had to act in faith. What battles are you currently facing? How can God’s presence and promises change the way you cope with them?
2. Do you suppose God viewed Rahab as a woman of sin or a woman of faith? Who in your life needs to be viewed through “grace-colored glasses?”
3. How does the destruction of peoples and cities in the Promised Land square with God’s Upper Story of redemption?

DAY THREE
Read Joshua 10-11; 23-24

1. Observe the battle between Israel-Gibeon and the five kings of the Amorites (p. 95-98 or Josh. 10). What human factors and what divine factors led to victory? What parallels can be drawn between this battle and your own spiritual battles today?
2. Joshua is known for the statement “as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD” (Joshua 24:15). What habits and attitudes have you seen in other families that are good examples of leading a household in serving the LORD? How can you emulate them?

PRAYER
God,
You command Joshua to be bold and courageous. Forgive us when we run away with fear. Give us a deeper love for reading and hearing your Word so we might experience your presence and strength. Give us a love for praying so you might fill us with courage to step into bold service of all those in need.
Amen

Journal your answers to these questions as you read through the chapter each week. You may wish to read one day and journal the next, or spread the questions over the whole week. If you don't have "The Story" then read through the chapters of the Bible listed for each day.

DAY ONE
Read Judges 2-4

1. God used Israel’s enemies to turn them back to himself. Have you ever had a painful or dangerous experience that led you back to God?
2. In the evil days after Joshua, “every man did what was right in his eyes.” In a pluralistic society, why is it dangerous when everyone gets to pick their own definition of right and wrong?
3. Deborah’s military leader was named Barak, which means “lightning” or “flashing sword.” Did he live up to his name? Describe a time when fear held you back from living up to the name “Christian.”
4. What are some characteristics of Deborah that make her a good role model for young women?

DAY TWO
Read Judges 6-8

1. The angel of the Lord greeted Gideon as a mighty warrior though he was from the weakest clan and of the least in his family. Do you tend to define yourself by your weaknesses or by the potential God sees in you because He is with you?
2. God demonstrated abundant victory through Gideon and a stripped-down army. How has God provided for you through overwhelming odds, when everything seems to be against you?

DAY THREE
Read Judges 13-16

1. Samson’s strength did not make up for his moral weaknesses. When has a strength of yours been insufficient to overcome your conditions?
2. Think of some of the prayers in this chapter, such as Gideon’s or Samson’s. What does this teach us about prayer?

PRAYER
God,
Give me the wisdom to recall Your saving and healing work in my life. Give my trust in Your faithfulness so I might put away fear. When fear overtakes me, help me cry out to You for deliverance. Fill me with Your Spirit so I might not forget you, and always follow your ways, which are good.
Amen

Journal your answers to these questions as you read through the chapter each week. You may wish to read one day and journal the next, or spread the questions over the whole week. If you don't have "The Story" then read through the chapters of the Bible listed for each day.

DAY ONE
Read Ruth 1-2:10

1. How would you describe the relationship between Naomi and her daughter-in-law? Is there anything you can apply to your relationship with your in-laws or future in-laws?
2. Ruth and Boaz provided for Naomi. In what tangible ways can you provide for the less fortunate both in your family and your community?

DAY TWO
Read Ruth 2:11-3:18

1. Boaz praised Ruth saying, “May the LORD repay you for what you have done [for Naomi]. May you be richly rewarded by the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge” (p. 123 or Ruth 2:11-12). How did God answer Boaz’ prayer for Ruth? How does an “others-centered” life create blessings for the giver?
2. As you reflect on times of need in your life, when have you experienced divine providence and unexpected provision?
3. Character is revealed by what we do, what we say, and often by what others say about us. How does Boaz serve as an example of a godly man or Ruth as a godly woman for you?

DAY THREE
Read Ruth 4

1. The theme of redemption is found throughout this story. Compare Boaz’ redemption of Ruth and Naomi to how Christ has redeemed you.
2. Faithful Boaz and Ruth were great-grandparents to King David and therefore they were also in the line of Messiah Jesus. Who in your family tree has been a godly example to you? Who in your church family stands as an example of godliness?

PRAYER
God,
When I can’t always see how You are at work in the details of my struggles, give me patience, endurance and strength to trust You are always at work behind the scenes guiding my path. Give me faith to follow my convictions, to seek out the help of those who are gracious, and to extend that help to others.
Amen

Journal your answers to these questions as you read through the chapter each week. You may wish to read one day and journal the next, or spread the questions over the whole week. If you don't have "The Story" then read through the chapters of the Bible listed for each day.

DAY ONE
Read 1 Samuel 1-3

1. Hannah wanted a child so badly she promised God that she would give the child over to him. Have you ever made a bargain with God? What thing do you want the most?
2. What do we learn from Hannah about how to pray?
3. How did Eli help Samuel know when he was hearing the voice of God? How can you tell when God is speaking to you?

DAY TWO
Read 1 Samuel 4; 8-10

1. The Ark of the Covenant was treated like a good luck charm. Do people treat God, or symbols of God, like that today? What is the difference between giving God the respect he deserves and treating a symbol like a rabbit’s foot?
2. Samuel was hurt that the Israelites wanted a king, instead of remembering God was their king. Why was this such a temptation for them? When have you found it hard to trust God to take care of you?

DAY THREE
Read 1 Samuel 11-13; 15

1. Why do you think it was hard for Saul to admit to Samuel when he was in the wrong? Rate your self from 1-10 on your ability to own up to your mistakes.
2. God repeatedly chooses the least and the last to accomplish His will. What could He do through you today?

PRAYER
God,
Help me to see myself and others not with the belittling eyes of this world, but only as You see me truly, as Your beloved, cre- ated just for what You intend. Give me courage like David to step with faith along the path You lead me, no matter how terrify- ing the challenge. Whether with fear or confidence, may I cry out, O God my fortress.
Amen

Journal your answers to these questions as you read through the chapter each week. You may wish to read one day and journal the next, or spread the questions over the whole week. If you don't have "The Story" then read through the chapters of the Bible listed for each day.

DAY ONE
Read 1 Samuel 1-3

1. Contrast God’s view of David with man’s view of David. Would you say you are winsome in the world’s eyes? How does God see you?
2. Who or what are the giants in your life that need to be faced with courage? How can you equip yourself to do this?

DAY TWO
Read 1 Samuel 4; 8-10

1. Think of a time when jealousy has somehow overtaken you.
2. Review the exchange between David and Saul at En Gedi (p. 153-154). What does Saul’s response to David’s offer of grace teach you about God’s grace?

DAY THREE
Read 1 Samuel 11-13; 15

1. When David wanted to build God a temple, God redirected him, just as God sometimes constrains our best intentions because He wants us to serve Him in other ways. How has God redirected you? Looking back, was this initially disappointing? 
2. After Nathan delivered God’s revelation, David went to the LORD in humble awe and praise (p. 159-160). Praise God using your own words by writing a short Psalm.

PRAYER
God,
Help me to see myself and others not with the belittling eyes of this world, but only as You see me truly, as Your beloved, created just for what You intend. Give me courage like David to step with faith along the path You lead me, no matter how terrifying the challenge. Whether with fear or confidence, may I cry out, O God my fortress.
Amen

Journal your answers to these questions as you read through the chapter each week. You may wish to read one day and journal the next, or spread the questions over the whole week. If you don't have "The Story" then read through the chapters of the Bible listed for each day.

DAY ONE
Read 1 Samuel 1-3

1. God used Nathan to confront David about his sin. Has anyone ever confronted you about a sin in your life? Who has permission to be your “Nathan”? 
2. Compare David’s confrontation with Nathan to Saul’s confrontation with Samuel (p.162-163 and p. 141-143.) What does David seem to understand that Saul does not?

DAY TWO
Read 1 Samuel 4; 8-10

1. Psalm 32 (p.165-166) shows what David felt like when he kept his sin a secret. Do you have a secret sin? How does keeping it secret affect you?
2. After David’s baby died, he arose and worshiped (p. 165). What does this say about the nature of worship? About David’s ability to release the past?

DAY THREE
Read 1 Samuel 11-13; 15

1. King David grieved over his son Absalom’s death, even though Absalom had betrayed him. Why do you think he reacted this way?
2. David was excited to give his time, money, and effort to building a temple he would not even live to see. Is giving easy or hard for you? How can you be a more cheerful giver?

PRAYER
God,
When I am tempted, make me aware of all the hurt my sin might cause. Please place in my life people who can speak the truth to me in love. Give me the humility and wisdom to hear such truth. Help me know that your forgiveness is total and complete. Create in me a clean heart, and renew a right spirit within me.
Amen