Discussion Jumpstarter

Study leader reference - not a definitive answer

Question 9

Ernest urges people to “be in the way” (Eliezer: “I being in the way, the Lord led me”), to befriend people, and to persist when most invitations are rejected—what does this suggest about God’s guidance working through ordinary presence and repeated failure, and what habits would need to change in your weekly schedule to live that way?

Another way to ask: What does “be in the way” teach about God guiding us through everyday friendships and lots of rejection, and what would you need to change in your weekly routine to live like that?

Discussion Jumpstarter

Direct Answer
The transcript suggests God often guides through ordinary, intentional presence among people—being “out and about,” talking, and trying repeatedly even when most say no. Living that way likely requires changing routines to create space for relationships, invitations, and ongoing follow-up.

Support from Transcript:

Ernest says: “Learn to walk with God and be sensitive to his spirit,” then “be out and about talking to people and befriending people.”
He explains, “God can more easily lead you to a seeker” if you’re already interacting.
He quotes Eliezer: “I being in the way, the Lord led me,” and applies it: Eliezer had to go where potential wives lived; similarly, we must go where people are.
He admits discouragement: “The majority of people I’ve invited… have not been interested,” and some methods were “not very effective.”
He says evangelists must interact with those “not yet yielded to God” and “keep on… without getting discouraged.”
He recommends practical habits: business/name cards, contact lists, meals with organizations, picnics, English classes, and campus presence.

Discussion Follow-ups What would “being in the way” look like in your town (campus, neighbors, community meals)? What activities in your week crowd out unplanned conversations and hospitality?

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