In the picturesque town of Bella Vista, a Bible study was held in the peaceful and serene surroundings of its beautiful lakes and lush golf courses. Despite being a popular resort destination, Bella Vista also served as a hub for spiritual growth, bringing the community together to dive deeper into God’s Word.

The evening began with the gentle sounds of nature in the background—birds singing and the faint rustling of leaves from the nearby lakes—setting the perfect tone for the study. The leader of the group, Sarah, welcomed everyone to the session and thanked God for the opportunity to gather in such a beautiful place. She reflected on how Bella Vista, with its seven distinct lakes, reminded her of the seven days of creation and how God created each part of the world with intention and purpose.

As the group settled, Sarah opened with a prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to guide their hearts and minds in understanding the Scriptures. Afterward, she began by reading from Psalm 23, one of the most beloved passages in the Bible, which speaks of God as the Good Shepherd guiding His people beside still waters.

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul.”

Sarah paused and asked the group, “When you think of still waters, what comes to your mind?” People shared their thoughts. Some mentioned peaceful lakes, like Lake Windsor or Lake Loch Lomond, known for their calm waters. Others talked about how water, in general, symbolizes peace and tranquility.

“It’s amazing how something as simple as water can be such a powerful reminder of God’s peace,” Sarah continued. “We see this peace reflected not only in the natural beauty of our surroundings, like the lakes here in Bella Vista, but also in our spiritual lives. Just as the Lord leads us beside still waters, He offers us peace and restoration when we feel weary.”

The group nodded, agreeing with Sarah’s reflections. They also spoke about how their experiences of kayaking on Lake Ann or paddleboarding on Lake Avalon could mirror the Christian life. Just as the water can feel smooth and gentle one moment, it can also feel choppy or unpredictable the next. But, with God as their guide, they can navigate any rough waters that may come their way.

After some discussion, Sarah led them to another passage of Scripture: Philippians 4:6-7.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

The group reflected on how God’s peace, much like the still waters, surpasses all understanding. It was a peace that could calm even the most anxious hearts. Bella Vista’s lakes, which provided such a refreshing experience, were a tangible reminder of the peace that only God could offer.

As they continued the study, the conversation shifted toward the beauty of God’s creation. Bella Vista’s lush, green landscapes and sparkling lakes weren’t just beautiful; they were evidence of God’s handiwork. Sarah read from Genesis 1:31:

“God saw everything that He had made, and behold, it was very good.”

“Just as God created this beautiful world around us,” Sarah said, “He also created us with purpose and goodness in mind. He saw everything He made, and He called it good. As believers, we must remember that God’s creation, including ourselves, is good. That means we are called to live lives that reflect His goodness and share that goodness with others.”

One member of the group, John, shared his thoughts on how his love for golf in Bella Vista allowed him to connect with God through nature. “The beauty of the golf courses here—whether it’s the greens on one of the 18-hole courses or the mini golf for fun—reminds me of God’s design. When I walk through the courses, I feel like I’m in a place of peace where I can pray and reflect on His goodness.”

Sarah smiled and acknowledged the connection between sports, nature, and faith. “Whether we’re playing golf, kayaking, or simply enjoying the views by the lakes, God is present in these moments. It’s important to take the time to appreciate what He has given us, and to rest in His presence.”

As the evening drew to a close, Sarah invited the group to spend a few moments in quiet reflection, appreciating the beauty of their surroundings and thanking God for the gifts of nature, peace, and restoration. The study ended with a prayer for the community of Bella Vista, that God would continue to bless their town and lead them in His ways, just as He leads His people beside still waters.

After the prayer, members of the group enjoyed a time of fellowship, sharing stories of how God had worked in their lives. Some even made plans to spend more time at Bella Vista’s lakes or golf courses, using the time to reflect on the lessons of the Bible study. It was clear that, just as the lakes of Bella Vista offered peace and recreation, the Word of God had the power to offer even deeper rest for the soul.

In the tranquil beauty of Bella Vista, the Bible study had served as a reminder that God’s presence and peace were always accessible—whether through the still waters of the lakes or the quiet moments of reflection in one’s heart.