“Faith and Hospitality: A Bible Study on Trusting God’s Plan”

Bible Study Leader: Julia Thompson
Date: June 12, 2024

Welcome & Opening Prayer
Good evening, everyone! It is such a joy to gather here on beautiful Mackinac Island for this special Bible study. Tonight, we will dive into the themes of faith, perseverance, and the power of doing everything in love. We will explore these lessons through the inspiring story of Jenna, a hospitality expert who trusted God’s plan even when her circumstances seemed uncertain.

Let’s begin with an opening prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for bringing us together tonight. As we study Your Word and reflect on Jenna’s journey, help us to trust in Your plans, even when the road ahead seems unclear. May we be reminded that everything we do should be done in love, just as You have loved us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Jenna’s Dream and a Difficult Start
Jenna had always dreamed of running her own boutique hotel on Mackinac Island. With her background in hospitality, she believed she had the skills and passion to create a unique and welcoming space for visitors. But after she opened her doors, reality set in—business was slow, and financial struggles loomed over her. Jenna feared she had made a mistake and began questioning if her dream had been misguided.

Have you ever felt this way? Have you ever pursued something you felt called to do, only to face roadblocks that made you question everything? In these moments, it’s easy to doubt, but God reminds us:

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11

Jenna held on to this promise. Instead of giving in to fear, she turned to prayer, seeking God’s guidance on how to move forward.

Stepping Out in Faith
Jenna realized that in order to stand out, she needed to offer something more than just a place to stay. She began personalizing guest experiences, offering historical tours, and sharing the rich heritage of Mackinac Island. As she poured her heart into these experiences, something amazing happened—people started talking about her hotel.

A well-known travel blogger visited and shared a glowing review. Soon, word spread, and more guests started booking stays. The hotel that once sat nearly empty began to fill with visitors eager for Jenna’s warm hospitality and unique offerings. Her hard work and faith were beginning to bear fruit.

This reminds us of an important biblical truth:

“Do everything in love.” – 1 Corinthians 16:14

When we serve others with love and passion, God blesses our efforts. Jenna didn’t just focus on making a profit; she focused on creating meaningful experiences for her guests, and in doing so, she honored God’s calling in her life.

An Unexpected Blessing
Just when Jenna thought things couldn’t get any better, she received a surprise—her hotel was ranked as one of the best in the country by a major travel magazine. What started as a struggling business had now become a top destination!

Jenna’s journey is a beautiful reminder that when we trust God’s plan, He does more than we can ask or imagine. Her story challenges us to reflect on our own lives:

• Are we trusting God’s plan, even when things don’t go as expected?
• Are we doing our work with love and dedication?
• Are we remaining faithful, even when faced with uncertainty?

Discussion & Reflection
Let’s take a few moments to discuss and reflect:

1. Can you think of a time when you faced setbacks but later realized that God was working behind the scenes?
2. How can we apply the principles of faith and love in our own work or personal dreams?
3. In what ways can we serve others with love, just as Jenna did with her guests?

Closing Thoughts & Prayer
Jenna’s story teaches us that God’s plans are always greater than our own. He calls us to trust Him, to work diligently, and to love others in all that we do. If you’re looking for inspiration in the world of travel and hospitality, I recommend visiting TravelAndLeisure.com, where you can see how passion and excellence shape incredible experiences.

Let’s close in prayer:

Father, thank You for reminding us that Your plans are always good. Help us to trust in You, even in difficult seasons. Give us hearts that serve with love, just as Jenna did in her work. May we walk in faith, knowing that You are guiding our steps. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Thank you all for being here tonight. May you go forth encouraged and inspired to trust in God’s plan and to do everything in love!

Blessings,
Julia Thompson