S: Psalms 139:14 Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous - how well I know it.
O: I love the EXCLAMATION POINT. It shows excitement!! Wonderfully complex! Marvelous workmanship!
A: I am in awe of how God has created each one of us wonderfully complex and we should be so excited about it. When I look at this body and how I have cared for it, I am ashamed, but I know that I have have been redeemed and forgiven and can do better. I am so thankful that His mercies are new every morning and I can begin again. So today, I will do better than yesterday. I will be mindful of the things He has shown me through this scripture.
P: Father thank you for this wonderfully complex body. How marvelous it it. I know I am not perfect and have not been a good steward of this body. But you love me anyway. You have created me and I love how you knit me together in my mother's womb to be who I am right now and exactly who you want me to be. Guide me in my choices to grow and be the woman you created me to be. Thank you for your mercies new every morning. I fail every day, but I can begin again every day as long as I am in you and You are in me.
~Amen
Showing posts with label Bible. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bible. Show all posts
Monday, March 10, 2014
GMG ~ Week Eight ~ Let's Be Intentional
Week 8 Challenge: This week focus on making one healthy habit in both how you eat and exercise! Some examples might include drinking more water, begin walking or running to incorporate some exercise into your day...even skipping the elevator and taking the stairs helps to add in a little exercise throughout the day Pray and ask God to help you make a healthy habit in each of these areas this week and invite a friend in your life to help hold you accountable.
Week 8 Memory Verse: Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies. ~ 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Week 8: This week I'm going to be intentionally focused on: Not only keep starting each day in the word of God, but making sure I am getting the exercise in and eating and making healthy choices. I need to stop sabotaging myself on the weekends. I need to my sure my body is getting as healthy as my spirit.
Your Health: "Don't get distracted by physical food. Don't think food can satisfy the longing of your soul. Only Jesus can do this. Our souls were created to crave him. Many people are waiting to hear the message of your calling. Don't get stuck in defeat and held back from it." ~ Lysa Terkeurst, Made to Crave
Week 8 Memory Verse: Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies. ~ 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Week 8: This week I'm going to be intentionally focused on: Not only keep starting each day in the word of God, but making sure I am getting the exercise in and eating and making healthy choices. I need to stop sabotaging myself on the weekends. I need to my sure my body is getting as healthy as my spirit.
Your Health: "Don't get distracted by physical food. Don't think food can satisfy the longing of your soul. Only Jesus can do this. Our souls were created to crave him. Many people are waiting to hear the message of your calling. Don't get stuck in defeat and held back from it." ~ Lysa Terkeurst, Made to Crave
Sunday, March 9, 2014
#SRT Matthew 4:4
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"It takes more than bread to stay alive. It takes a steady stream of words from God's mouth." The Message
This scripture really hits my heart. I love how The Message says 'A steady stream of words from God's mouth.'
I envision a stream especially with the thawing of winter and how it rushes forth with water. God's word is rushing forward into my heart and mind and feeding my soul. This is what keeps me alive.
This year I have been spending my early morning hours studying and learning God's word. I have also been on a quest of learning to eat healthier and making better food choices. This scripture is plain and direct. Showing exactly what is important to sustain life. While we need food for our physical bodies, we need God's word to sustain our spiritual self. I am learning these both go hand in hand.
God provides physical food to nourish our bodies. We need to care for ourselves in a way that we are healthy and able to be about His work. His business. Our bodies are His temple. We were created through Him and in Him. As I age, I am realizing I have not been a good steward of this body He has given me. I have aches and pains and extra weight that are a direct result of not caring for this temple. It is my choice to go forward and care for myself. I am making better choices but need to do better. God never lets me down. I need not let Him down. I love that He has placed the desire in my heart to start each day with Him and in His word to teach me what to do and how to do it. His word truly is a lamp unto my feet.
Father, God, Papa, you are so giving and kind. Your unfailing love and redemption are what keep me going forward. I would be dead in my sins without them. Thank you for your word. Thank you for your guidance. Thank you for your love, unconditional. Push me forward. Help me to be your witness. I know I need to care for this temple you have given me. Help me strive to be better for You and furthering your kingdom.
~Amen
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Friday, March 7, 2014
#SRT Lenten Friday Blog ~ Psalms 130
I have been S.O.A.P.ing for a few months and it has been working for me. Helping me to keep God's word on my heart and mind. So that is how I am going to start this new assignment. I am so looking forward to this. I love She Reads Truth and it's community. It was my very first online bible study. I have gained and grown so much since I first found it. So here goes my S.O.A.P. in the Friday Lenten Community Writer's.
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Scripture:
Psalms 130
A song for pilgrims ascending to Jerusalem.
1 From the depths of despair, O Lord, I call for your help.
2 Hear my cry, O Lord. Pay attention to my prayer.
3 Lord, if you kept a record of our sins,who, O Lord, could ever survive?
4 But you offer forgiveness, that we might learn to fear you.
5 I am counting on the Lord; yes, I am counting on him. I have put my hope in his word.
6 I Long for the Lord more than sentries long for the dawn, yes, more than sentries long for the dawn.
7 O Israel, hope in the Lord; for with the Lord there is unfailing love. His redemption overflows.
8 He himself will redeem Israel from every kind of sin.
Observation:
- A desperate cry for help. From the depths of despair.
- Realize no one could survive on our own. God offers forgiveness and redemption.
- Count on the Lord and put my hope in Him. Long for Him.
- Unfailing love.
- Redemption overflows.
- Redemption from EVERY KIND of sin.
- A sentry is a soldier who stood watch on a long tiring night waiting for dawn.
Application: After reading this Psalm I had to look up the definition of Sentry. I can't imagine how long the nights must have been for them. Watching and waiting for the dawn. Longing for the dawn is what this scripture says. Isn't that what life is like some times. Watching and waiting for what is to come. My husband works on the road and we are trying to sell our home so we can relocate. At times I am so anxious for this to happen. But I know God has a plan. I know he He hears my desperate cry for help. I am so very thankful for his forgiveness in my being so impatient. Thankful that I am redeemed by His grace. I am counting on Him and know his love is unfailing. So I will continue to put my hope in Him in all I am waiting for.
Prayer: Father, thank you for hearing my cries for your help and guidance and thank you for forgiving me of my impatience for not trusting your timing. I know I can count on you and that you love me unconditionally. Be with me in my waiting for your direction. I ask in Jesus name.
~Amen
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
GMG Intentionally Focused Study Week 7 Day 2
Proverbs 31:27
S: She carefully watches everything in her household and suffers nothing from laziness.
O: Carefully watches. Pay attention.
Laziness. Idleness=Without effect, pointless
A: This troubles me. I think I mentioned a while back, that I have a lot of time on my hands. I waste time. While I keep my household in pretty good shape, (I have a bit of OCD) I could be doing so much more to further God's kingdom. I know in my heart I have had quite a few struggles with this study. Some days are better than others, but for the most part, I feel I am really being stretched. Taken out of my comfort zone. I am thankful for this because it means I am growing. I need to watch carefully everything. My household is not this building I live in, however, it is this BODY I live in. My household goes much farther than this building. The building is a place where I can share my hospitality but I can also show my hospitality everywhere I go in this body. Reach out to others in a way they need. We all have something to offer.
'Christ in the cup of water we hand to the thirsty stranger. Christ in the sitting quietly on the sofa of a lonely neighbor. Christ in our arms and hands as we life the burden of a weary friend.' Taken from #SRT, Amanda, today's devotion, 'it is a merciful fragrance'
She Reads Truth, Day 9
P: Father, you know the depths of my heart and you know that on days, I have felt way off base with the other ladies in this group. Thank you for your urging and giving me what YOU would have ME get from your word. Thank you for giving me the desire to dig way deeper than I ever have into your word. Thank you for loving me and giving my FREELY your gift of forgiveness and grace.
~Amen
S: She carefully watches everything in her household and suffers nothing from laziness.
O: Carefully watches. Pay attention.
Laziness. Idleness=Without effect, pointless
A: This troubles me. I think I mentioned a while back, that I have a lot of time on my hands. I waste time. While I keep my household in pretty good shape, (I have a bit of OCD) I could be doing so much more to further God's kingdom. I know in my heart I have had quite a few struggles with this study. Some days are better than others, but for the most part, I feel I am really being stretched. Taken out of my comfort zone. I am thankful for this because it means I am growing. I need to watch carefully everything. My household is not this building I live in, however, it is this BODY I live in. My household goes much farther than this building. The building is a place where I can share my hospitality but I can also show my hospitality everywhere I go in this body. Reach out to others in a way they need. We all have something to offer.
'Christ in the cup of water we hand to the thirsty stranger. Christ in the sitting quietly on the sofa of a lonely neighbor. Christ in our arms and hands as we life the burden of a weary friend.' Taken from #SRT, Amanda, today's devotion, 'it is a merciful fragrance'
She Reads Truth, Day 9
P: Father, you know the depths of my heart and you know that on days, I have felt way off base with the other ladies in this group. Thank you for your urging and giving me what YOU would have ME get from your word. Thank you for giving me the desire to dig way deeper than I ever have into your word. Thank you for loving me and giving my FREELY your gift of forgiveness and grace.
~Amen
Saturday, March 1, 2014
GMG Week Six ~ Focused Questions
1.) If your want your children to learn to love God, you need to make it a part of your everyday life. It can't just be something they see you add on at church. How do you help your children see God in all aspects of their lives - not just the ones that are church related? If you are not a parent yet, how do you plan on incorporating these ideas when you are? If your children are grown - share your wisdom with us!
This is a tough one for me. I wish I had taken every opportunity to raise my children in God's word, but didn't. Mind you we weren't heathens and did try to raise them teaching them good moral values and how to be upright citizens. While they have grown into fine adults, I am sorry to have failed them and God in bringing them up in a home not driven by God's word. Now, moving forward, I believe I set a good example. My daughter sees me daily in God's word. I show them the love of the Lord and witness to them as often as possible. I will continue to pray for them and their families. In addition to my own children, I can also set an example for others, children and adults by showing them the love God has given me to share.
2.) Compare Psalm 127:3 and 1 Samuel 1:27. Have you dedicated your children over to the Lord or do you hold them in your own hand? Will you let go of the tight grip and allow God to use them mightily for Him? What prayers are you praying over your children this year? If you don't have children, are you praying over the future ones you might have, or those you may influence?
As a mother, especially, it is hard to not want to take care of everything for your children. I have learned through the years, they are His. He gave them to me as a treasured gift. I must trust Him to care for them and protect them. And I do. He is the mighty God and will continue to hold all His children in His hands.
This is a tough one for me. I wish I had taken every opportunity to raise my children in God's word, but didn't. Mind you we weren't heathens and did try to raise them teaching them good moral values and how to be upright citizens. While they have grown into fine adults, I am sorry to have failed them and God in bringing them up in a home not driven by God's word. Now, moving forward, I believe I set a good example. My daughter sees me daily in God's word. I show them the love of the Lord and witness to them as often as possible. I will continue to pray for them and their families. In addition to my own children, I can also set an example for others, children and adults by showing them the love God has given me to share.
2.) Compare Psalm 127:3 and 1 Samuel 1:27. Have you dedicated your children over to the Lord or do you hold them in your own hand? Will you let go of the tight grip and allow God to use them mightily for Him? What prayers are you praying over your children this year? If you don't have children, are you praying over the future ones you might have, or those you may influence?
As a mother, especially, it is hard to not want to take care of everything for your children. I have learned through the years, they are His. He gave them to me as a treasured gift. I must trust Him to care for them and protect them. And I do. He is the mighty God and will continue to hold all His children in His hands.
Friday, February 28, 2014
GMG Intentionally Focused Study Week 6 Day 5
2 Timothy 3:15-17
S: You have been taught in the holy Scriptures from childhood, and they have given you the wisdom to receive the salvation that comes by trusting in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.
O:
A: It's never too late to teach. Keep on with my faith and keep being a good example. It's never too late.
P: Father, thank you for this scripture this morning. I love how you give us your word for instruction for our lives and give us your holy spirit to guide us and help us know the difference between right and wrong. Give us all a good day in you and bless each of these ladies weekend. I am thankful for each one and their faithfulness to this group.
~Amen
Fun Fact Friday: My grand babies are coming home this weekend. I cannot wait to get my hands on them. I haven't seen them since Christmas. Please pray for safe travel as we are expecting another foot of snow this weekend.
S: You have been taught in the holy Scriptures from childhood, and they have given you the wisdom to receive the salvation that comes by trusting in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.
O:
- taught young
- given wisdom
- trust Jesus
- inspired by God
- useful to teach truth
- discern right from wrong
- corrects us
- teaches us what is right
- prepares and equips us to do good work
A: It's never too late to teach. Keep on with my faith and keep being a good example. It's never too late.
P: Father, thank you for this scripture this morning. I love how you give us your word for instruction for our lives and give us your holy spirit to guide us and help us know the difference between right and wrong. Give us all a good day in you and bless each of these ladies weekend. I am thankful for each one and their faithfulness to this group.
~Amen
Fun Fact Friday: My grand babies are coming home this weekend. I cannot wait to get my hands on them. I haven't seen them since Christmas. Please pray for safe travel as we are expecting another foot of snow this weekend.
Thursday, February 27, 2014
GMG Intentionally Focused Study Week 6 Day 4
Matthew 18:5-6
S: "And anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf is welcoming me. But if you cause one of these little ones who trusts in me to fall into sin, it would be better for you to have a large millstone tied around your neck and be drowned in the depths of the sea.
O: Trust. Fall
A: I probably need to treat adults more like I do children and be less critical and more loving. I love children and they seem to be drawn to me. I have been such a skeptic of adults lately. Critical and judgmental. This week has brought out an old frustration in me that I didn't raise my children in a Godly home.
P: Father, no excuses here. I had the opportunity to raise our children in a Godly home and didn't. Please forgive me and help me move forward. Help me to be a good example to my children in their adulthood. Help me be a good example to my nieces, nephews, grandchildren and all I come in contact with. Guard my heart and mind. Make be ever mindful of the words of my mouth and my actions that I would reflect your love in my life.
~Amen
S: "And anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf is welcoming me. But if you cause one of these little ones who trusts in me to fall into sin, it would be better for you to have a large millstone tied around your neck and be drowned in the depths of the sea.
O: Trust. Fall
A: I probably need to treat adults more like I do children and be less critical and more loving. I love children and they seem to be drawn to me. I have been such a skeptic of adults lately. Critical and judgmental. This week has brought out an old frustration in me that I didn't raise my children in a Godly home.
P: Father, no excuses here. I had the opportunity to raise our children in a Godly home and didn't. Please forgive me and help me move forward. Help me to be a good example to my children in their adulthood. Help me be a good example to my nieces, nephews, grandchildren and all I come in contact with. Guard my heart and mind. Make be ever mindful of the words of my mouth and my actions that I would reflect your love in my life.
~Amen
Wednesday, February 26, 2014
GMG Intentionally Focused Study Week 6 Day 3
Psalm 127:3-5
S: Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him. Children born to a young man are like arrows in a warrior's hands. How joyful is the man whose quiver is full of them! He will not be put to shame when he confronts his accusers at the city gates.
O: Gift/reward. What does a warrior do with his arrow - hit the mark, go for the bulls-eye, have good aim.
A: The reminder in the daily reading helped me today. Children are a gift and thank God it is not up to me alone to make sure they know Him. God has this. Unless He builds the house, unless He protects the city......My work is useless without Him. That does not let me off the hook, but it sure gives me hope. I didn't start to seek Him until I was an adult.
P: Thank you Father that your mercies are new every morning. Thank you for your hope. Thank you for loving me so much and giving me peace in your word today after really struggling with the scriptures yesterday and today. I know you hold these kids in your hands. I can keep aiming for the mark and be a good example and witness. You will do the rest.
~Amen and amen
S: Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him. Children born to a young man are like arrows in a warrior's hands. How joyful is the man whose quiver is full of them! He will not be put to shame when he confronts his accusers at the city gates.
O: Gift/reward. What does a warrior do with his arrow - hit the mark, go for the bulls-eye, have good aim.
A: The reminder in the daily reading helped me today. Children are a gift and thank God it is not up to me alone to make sure they know Him. God has this. Unless He builds the house, unless He protects the city......My work is useless without Him. That does not let me off the hook, but it sure gives me hope. I didn't start to seek Him until I was an adult.
P: Thank you Father that your mercies are new every morning. Thank you for your hope. Thank you for loving me so much and giving me peace in your word today after really struggling with the scriptures yesterday and today. I know you hold these kids in your hands. I can keep aiming for the mark and be a good example and witness. You will do the rest.
~Amen and amen
Monday, February 24, 2014
GMG Intentionally Focused Study Week 6 Day 1
Deuteronomy 6:7-9
S: Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up. Tie them to your hands and wear them on your forehead as reminders. Write them on the doorposts of your house an on your gates.
O: Keep the commands of God in the forefront of everything I do and say. Talk about them constantly. Put them everywhere to keep my mind and heart focused on His Word.
A: I need to keep writing God's word on my heart and mind. Memorizing and focusing on His commands.
P: Father help me this week to remember and focus on the scriptures you place on my heart. Help me with my focus this week which is to be in constant prayer for those I come in contact with this week. Be with each of these ladies this week as they study your word. Bless them Father as they are a blessing to me. In Jesus name I pray.
~Amen
S: Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up. Tie them to your hands and wear them on your forehead as reminders. Write them on the doorposts of your house an on your gates.
O: Keep the commands of God in the forefront of everything I do and say. Talk about them constantly. Put them everywhere to keep my mind and heart focused on His Word.
A: I need to keep writing God's word on my heart and mind. Memorizing and focusing on His commands.
P: Father help me this week to remember and focus on the scriptures you place on my heart. Help me with my focus this week which is to be in constant prayer for those I come in contact with this week. Be with each of these ladies this week as they study your word. Bless them Father as they are a blessing to me. In Jesus name I pray.
~Amen
GMG ~ Week Six ~ Let's Be Intentional
Week Six Challenge: As you "walk along the road' with your children this week (at the dinner table, driving to activities, during the bedtime routine, etc.), intentionally make a point to talk about "the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done (Psalm 78). If you don't have children of your own, find time this week to visit a child in your life (nieces, nephews, neighbors, children in your church, etc.) with the same intention.
Week Six Memory Verse: Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from Him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one's youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their opponents in court. ~Psalm 127:3-5
Week Six: This week I'm going to be intentionally focused on: Prayer. Praying for not just my children, but my friends, family and all who come to mind. Asking God to meet them where they are. Comfort, guide and protect them.
Your Children: "In the end, the measure of my success as a mother will not be how well I have taught my kids or cared for hem but whether I have been faithful in helping them respond to God's call on their lives." ~ Sally Clarkson, Ministry of Motherhood
Week Six Memory Verse: Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from Him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one's youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their opponents in court. ~Psalm 127:3-5
Week Six: This week I'm going to be intentionally focused on: Prayer. Praying for not just my children, but my friends, family and all who come to mind. Asking God to meet them where they are. Comfort, guide and protect them.
Your Children: "In the end, the measure of my success as a mother will not be how well I have taught my kids or cared for hem but whether I have been faithful in helping them respond to God's call on their lives." ~ Sally Clarkson, Ministry of Motherhood
Friday, February 21, 2014
GMG Intentionally Focused Study Week 5 Day 5
Proverbs 27:17
S: As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.
O: Iron=A strong, hard magnetic, silvery gray metal used for construction and manufacturing. Figuratively used to show firmness, strength or resistance.
Sharpen=Improve or cause to improve.
A: I love how Jen said in the blog today, "It is not common interests that solidifies a friendship, but a common Savior." I know I have relationships built on both common interests and built on Jesus. I know which of these relationships have a strong foundation. It isn't that I don't love the common interest friends, because I do, very much, but the relationships built on Jesus are the ones that stand the test of time. We hold each other accountable. We sharpen one another.
P: Father, thank you for the friendships I have where you are what we build our relationship on. Help me to share you with all my friendships and love them the same. Thank you for giving me more and more relationships built on you. Ecclesiastes 4:12 Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. Thank you Father for being the central cord in my friendships.
~Amen
S: As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.
O: Iron=A strong, hard magnetic, silvery gray metal used for construction and manufacturing. Figuratively used to show firmness, strength or resistance.
Sharpen=Improve or cause to improve.
A: I love how Jen said in the blog today, "It is not common interests that solidifies a friendship, but a common Savior." I know I have relationships built on both common interests and built on Jesus. I know which of these relationships have a strong foundation. It isn't that I don't love the common interest friends, because I do, very much, but the relationships built on Jesus are the ones that stand the test of time. We hold each other accountable. We sharpen one another.
P: Father, thank you for the friendships I have where you are what we build our relationship on. Help me to share you with all my friendships and love them the same. Thank you for giving me more and more relationships built on you. Ecclesiastes 4:12 Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. Thank you Father for being the central cord in my friendships.
~Amen
Thursday, February 20, 2014
GMG Intentionally Focused Study Week 5 Day 4
Ephesians 4:29, 31-32
S: Don't use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.
Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving and another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.
O: foul/abusive - good/helpful Be an encouragement.
bitterness/rage/anger/harsh words/slander/evil behavior - kind/tender hearted/forgiving - God gave us His ONLY son to cover these sins. Should we not honor that kind of love? OH MY! Makes me weak to think about this. Bring everything back to LOVE.
A: God gave us His Son to cover these behaviors. I try every day, some days harder than others and some days I don't even think too much about it, but one thing is for sure, I fail everyday in my flesh. I need to remember my "wardrobe" and put all these behaviors in the dirty laundry and not wash them, but burn them. I need to keep putting on my LOVE clothes and pushing forward to be an example of His love.
P: Father, God. Thank you for your Son and his blood to wash away my filth. Keep placing me in the refining fire to burn away all these terrible behaviors so that the people I encounter everyday, friends, family and strangers alike see only the LOVE that you have given me to share. I am not worthy to be called your child, but I am washed in your son's blood and covered in your grace and proud to say, I am yours.
~Amen
S: Don't use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.
Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving and another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.
O: foul/abusive - good/helpful Be an encouragement.
bitterness/rage/anger/harsh words/slander/evil behavior - kind/tender hearted/forgiving - God gave us His ONLY son to cover these sins. Should we not honor that kind of love? OH MY! Makes me weak to think about this. Bring everything back to LOVE.
A: God gave us His Son to cover these behaviors. I try every day, some days harder than others and some days I don't even think too much about it, but one thing is for sure, I fail everyday in my flesh. I need to remember my "wardrobe" and put all these behaviors in the dirty laundry and not wash them, but burn them. I need to keep putting on my LOVE clothes and pushing forward to be an example of His love.
P: Father, God. Thank you for your Son and his blood to wash away my filth. Keep placing me in the refining fire to burn away all these terrible behaviors so that the people I encounter everyday, friends, family and strangers alike see only the LOVE that you have given me to share. I am not worthy to be called your child, but I am washed in your son's blood and covered in your grace and proud to say, I am yours.
~Amen
Wednesday, February 19, 2014
GMG Intentionally Focused Study Week 5 Day 3
Colossians 3:13-14
S: Make allowance for each other's faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony.
O: Don't judge. Forgive. God forgives me everyday and I don't deserve it. Do all things in love.
A: I love the Message version of this verse:
12-14So chosen by God for this new life of love, dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you: compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline. Be even-tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive an offense. Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you. And regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It's your basic, all-purpose garment. Never be without it.
I often times forget my heavenly wardrobe. I become sloppy and forget to to be compassionate and kind. God hand picked these garments out for me, how disobedient am I not to put them on. Oh my! Just makes me cringe.
P: Thank you Father for choosing just the right wardrobe for me to wear. Help me to be ever mindful of all these virtues as I dress each day. Remind me that is isn't about the fabric that's important, it's about the intentions of my heart. May I always remember to forgive and not hold a grudge. May I always remember to love and be compassionate. I need to love and forgive because You first love and forgive me each and every day.
~Amen
S: Make allowance for each other's faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony.
O: Don't judge. Forgive. God forgives me everyday and I don't deserve it. Do all things in love.
A: I love the Message version of this verse:
12-14So chosen by God for this new life of love, dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you: compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline. Be even-tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive an offense. Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you. And regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It's your basic, all-purpose garment. Never be without it.
I often times forget my heavenly wardrobe. I become sloppy and forget to to be compassionate and kind. God hand picked these garments out for me, how disobedient am I not to put them on. Oh my! Just makes me cringe.
P: Thank you Father for choosing just the right wardrobe for me to wear. Help me to be ever mindful of all these virtues as I dress each day. Remind me that is isn't about the fabric that's important, it's about the intentions of my heart. May I always remember to forgive and not hold a grudge. May I always remember to love and be compassionate. I need to love and forgive because You first love and forgive me each and every day.
~Amen
Monday, February 17, 2014
GMG Intentionally Focused Study Week 5 Day 1
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
S: Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble.
O: Two are better than one. Being alone can cause trouble.
A: I need to be more open to relationships and receiving help. I spend a lot of time alone and actually enjoy being alone.
P: Father help me be more accepting of help and relationships. I know I tend to push people away as a defense mechanism in order to not be hurt. You know my heart and my intentions. Help me not to worry about what others think about me. You know and that is all that is important. Thank you for a new week of this study. I can hardly believe we are into week five. Bless each of us this week in our walk with you and studying your word.
~Amen
S: Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble.
O: Two are better than one. Being alone can cause trouble.
A: I need to be more open to relationships and receiving help. I spend a lot of time alone and actually enjoy being alone.
P: Father help me be more accepting of help and relationships. I know I tend to push people away as a defense mechanism in order to not be hurt. You know my heart and my intentions. Help me not to worry about what others think about me. You know and that is all that is important. Thank you for a new week of this study. I can hardly believe we are into week five. Bless each of us this week in our walk with you and studying your word.
~Amen
Saturday, February 15, 2014
GMG Week Four ~ Focused Questions
1.) Do you see the role of a wife as God intended, to be a help to the husband-not a slave-but one who completes Him? What are ways that you balance your husband-and what are some ways that you can grow as a partner for him? If you are unmarried-what are some ways that you see God as your husband, filling in the gaps in areas that you lack?
I do see myself as the one who completes my husband and he completes me. I am so very thankful for our marriage, for our relationship. We just work. We have such a good flow. We read each other well. After 27 years I hope we have a great relationship.
2.) Compare Ephesians 5:22-33 and Colossians 3:18-19,23. How can we apply the concepts of both of these passages, with the focus being intentional-bringing Glory to the Lord?
I believe we do this by honoring each other in our marriage. Loving each other unconditionally and protecting each other in all ways. By loving and respecting each other and following the commands of the bible brings honor and glory to God.
~Peace
I do see myself as the one who completes my husband and he completes me. I am so very thankful for our marriage, for our relationship. We just work. We have such a good flow. We read each other well. After 27 years I hope we have a great relationship.
2.) Compare Ephesians 5:22-33 and Colossians 3:18-19,23. How can we apply the concepts of both of these passages, with the focus being intentional-bringing Glory to the Lord?
I believe we do this by honoring each other in our marriage. Loving each other unconditionally and protecting each other in all ways. By loving and respecting each other and following the commands of the bible brings honor and glory to God.
~Peace
Thursday, February 13, 2014
GMG Intentionally Focused Study Week 4 Day 4
Good morning~
Titus 2:3
S: Similarly, teach the older women to live in a way that honors God. They must not slander or be heavy drinkers. Instead, they should teach others what is good.
O: Live a life that honors God. Don't gossip and don't get drunk. Set and be a good example.
A: This week has been a difficult week for me. Don't get me wrong, I have a very happy and fulfilling marriage. But these scriptures struck a cord within my heart for some reason and I can't quite figure out why. It is bringing some things to surface that I have shoved down in my being and THOUGHT I had moved on from. Apparently God wants me to take care of these things. And I will be obedient to Him.
Back to the focus scripture for today.... I am trying hard to live a life that honors God and I fall short in some areas and in my weak flesh, but I am trying and will continue to my best to honor Him. Gossip and slander. Those are tough, because the tongue is so evil even in the smallest way and even in a whisper it can hurt. I need to choose my words wisely. I don't get drunk, although I used to. I love that God sent his Holy Spirit to guide me and give me that nudge when I am not being a good example to push me back to His ways. This study is really helping put God's word in my heart and mind like never before.
P: Father you are the author of my life and like any author you know the ending. I am so glad YOU are the author of my life and not some fictional author. You are the author of truth and knowledge and you love me and want the best for me. I pray that I am honoring you in a way that you would be proud of me. Thank you for being most important in my life. Be with each of these women today and always. Wrap your loving arms around them in all their struggles and victories.
~Amen
Titus 2:3
S: Similarly, teach the older women to live in a way that honors God. They must not slander or be heavy drinkers. Instead, they should teach others what is good.
O: Live a life that honors God. Don't gossip and don't get drunk. Set and be a good example.
A: This week has been a difficult week for me. Don't get me wrong, I have a very happy and fulfilling marriage. But these scriptures struck a cord within my heart for some reason and I can't quite figure out why. It is bringing some things to surface that I have shoved down in my being and THOUGHT I had moved on from. Apparently God wants me to take care of these things. And I will be obedient to Him.
Back to the focus scripture for today.... I am trying hard to live a life that honors God and I fall short in some areas and in my weak flesh, but I am trying and will continue to my best to honor Him. Gossip and slander. Those are tough, because the tongue is so evil even in the smallest way and even in a whisper it can hurt. I need to choose my words wisely. I don't get drunk, although I used to. I love that God sent his Holy Spirit to guide me and give me that nudge when I am not being a good example to push me back to His ways. This study is really helping put God's word in my heart and mind like never before.
P: Father you are the author of my life and like any author you know the ending. I am so glad YOU are the author of my life and not some fictional author. You are the author of truth and knowledge and you love me and want the best for me. I pray that I am honoring you in a way that you would be proud of me. Thank you for being most important in my life. Be with each of these women today and always. Wrap your loving arms around them in all their struggles and victories.
~Amen
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
GMG Intentionally Focused Study Week 4 Day 3
Ephesians 5:22-23, 28-29
S: 22-For wives, this means submit to your husbands as to the Lord. 23-For a husband is the head of his wife as Christ is the head of the church. He is the Savior of his body, the church.
28-In the same way, husbands ought to love their wives as they love their own bodies. For a man who loves his wife actually shows love for himself. 29-No one hates his own body but feeds and cares for it, just as Christ cares for the church.
O: Submit as to the Lord.
Ought= used to indicate duty or correctness, typically when criticizing someones actions: they ought to respect the law - it ought not be allowed. I needed to dig further into this word ought - used to indicate something that is probable; five minutes ought to be enough time. It's origin-Old English ahte, past tense of agan 'owe'.
A:I am struggling here this morning. I guess you could tell. I need to pray more and ask for guidance on this and finish/edit this post later.
Okay so I am back to this scripture after a day of praying, thinking and talking about it. I am struggling with something I should not be struggling with. This is about me and submission to my husband. Realize what God's command is here and that is 'submit to your husbands as to the Lord'. God is not absent in this. He doesn't disappear after his command. He isn't an invisible God. He is surely present. I just need to follow what He asks. He will take care of the rest. My husband is a good man, husband, father, provider, lover and friend. My struggle was with the word 'ought' as I indicated in the O. But that doesn't need to bother me. God is in control. I need to trust. I battle between my head and my heart. TRUST. I believe this is what God is telling me right here and now.
P: Father thank you for opening my head up to what my heart is telling me. You clearly spoke the word TRUST to me. Right here and now. I know that I don't need to worry about the 'ought to'. I will submit and trust. Trust is not something that comes easy for me. But you have never left me and are always faithful. Thank you for my husband. Thank you that he is a good man and he loves and cares for me. Father I also ask that you be with the women in this group struggling. Help us to always feel you near and hear your voice when you give us a clear answer.
~Amen
S: 22-For wives, this means submit to your husbands as to the Lord. 23-For a husband is the head of his wife as Christ is the head of the church. He is the Savior of his body, the church.
28-In the same way, husbands ought to love their wives as they love their own bodies. For a man who loves his wife actually shows love for himself. 29-No one hates his own body but feeds and cares for it, just as Christ cares for the church.
O: Submit as to the Lord.
Ought= used to indicate duty or correctness, typically when criticizing someones actions: they ought to respect the law - it ought not be allowed. I needed to dig further into this word ought - used to indicate something that is probable; five minutes ought to be enough time. It's origin-Old English ahte, past tense of agan 'owe'.
A:
Okay so I am back to this scripture after a day of praying, thinking and talking about it. I am struggling with something I should not be struggling with. This is about me and submission to my husband. Realize what God's command is here and that is 'submit to your husbands as to the Lord'. God is not absent in this. He doesn't disappear after his command. He isn't an invisible God. He is surely present. I just need to follow what He asks. He will take care of the rest. My husband is a good man, husband, father, provider, lover and friend. My struggle was with the word 'ought' as I indicated in the O. But that doesn't need to bother me. God is in control. I need to trust. I battle between my head and my heart. TRUST. I believe this is what God is telling me right here and now.
P: Father thank you for opening my head up to what my heart is telling me. You clearly spoke the word TRUST to me. Right here and now. I know that I don't need to worry about the 'ought to'. I will submit and trust. Trust is not something that comes easy for me. But you have never left me and are always faithful. Thank you for my husband. Thank you that he is a good man and he loves and cares for me. Father I also ask that you be with the women in this group struggling. Help us to always feel you near and hear your voice when you give us a clear answer.
~Amen
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
GMG Intentionally Focused Study Week 4 Day 2
Genesis 3:6
S: The woman was convinced. She saw that the tree was beautiful and it's fruit looked delicious, and she wanted the wisdom it would give her. So she took some of the fruit and ate it. Then she gave some to her husband, and he ate it too.
O: She was convinced by it's beauty. It looked good/delicious. Pleasant for the eyes. Wanted/desired wisdom. He ate it because she gave it to him.
A: This reminds me how easily tempted I can be by things that look good. Beauty is all around us, tempting us to things that may not be good. Satan is a tempter and will use all kinds of appealing things to try to get us to stray away from God. How powerful we are as women to get others to follow us, especially our husbands. I need to be very careful to not stray away from what God wants and not direct my family and even others away from what is good in the eyes of God.
P: Father my prayer today is for you to keep my eyes fixed on YOU. Keep showing me your ways and help me to discern the difference between the beauty of this world and the tempting ways satan tries to get my attention away from you. I want to be your witness in all I say and do, not just with my husband but with all I come in contact with. I struggle with the traps of satan. We all do. Sometimes we don't even know we are being tempted and realize our sin after. I am so thankful for this study and bringing these thoughts to mind every single day. How easy it would be to stay in bed and not read your word and not know the difference of the things you want me to seek and just be complacent and tempted by satan. Oh God how thankful I am that you have grabbed hold of my heart and brought me to you.
~Amen
Thankful Tuesday: Thankful for being a child of God.
S: The woman was convinced. She saw that the tree was beautiful and it's fruit looked delicious, and she wanted the wisdom it would give her. So she took some of the fruit and ate it. Then she gave some to her husband, and he ate it too.
O: She was convinced by it's beauty. It looked good/delicious. Pleasant for the eyes. Wanted/desired wisdom. He ate it because she gave it to him.
A: This reminds me how easily tempted I can be by things that look good. Beauty is all around us, tempting us to things that may not be good. Satan is a tempter and will use all kinds of appealing things to try to get us to stray away from God. How powerful we are as women to get others to follow us, especially our husbands. I need to be very careful to not stray away from what God wants and not direct my family and even others away from what is good in the eyes of God.
P: Father my prayer today is for you to keep my eyes fixed on YOU. Keep showing me your ways and help me to discern the difference between the beauty of this world and the tempting ways satan tries to get my attention away from you. I want to be your witness in all I say and do, not just with my husband but with all I come in contact with. I struggle with the traps of satan. We all do. Sometimes we don't even know we are being tempted and realize our sin after. I am so thankful for this study and bringing these thoughts to mind every single day. How easy it would be to stay in bed and not read your word and not know the difference of the things you want me to seek and just be complacent and tempted by satan. Oh God how thankful I am that you have grabbed hold of my heart and brought me to you.
~Amen
Thankful Tuesday: Thankful for being a child of God.
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