The "Unveiled" women's retreat is only two weeks away! I can't believe how fast fall is flying by! There will be a registration table set up in the Narthex at church again this Sunday and forms will also be in the bulletin. PLEASE let me know if you are planning to come and haven't registered yet. We don't want ANYONE to miss out on the fun! I promise you won't regret it!
Also, don't forget that there is no Bible Study for either class this Wednesday, October 29th, due the the Harvest Party being held in the CLC. This is open to the public, so invite your friends! The kids ALWAYS have a ball!
Friday, October 24, 2008
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Who Are We Listening To?
I added a new song to the playlist called "Embracing Accusation" by Shane & Shane. Here are the lyrics...
The father of lies coming to steal, kill and destroy
all my hopes of being good enough.
I hear him saying, cursed are the ones who can't abide.
He's right, Hallelujah, he's right!
The devil is preaching the song of the redeemed
that I am cursed and gone astray,
I cannot gain salvation...embracing accusation.
Could the father of lies be telling
the truth of God to me tonight?
If the penalty of sin is death, then death is mine.
I hear him saying, cursed are the ones who can't abide.
He's right, Hallelujah, he's right!
Oh, the devil's singing over me an age old song,
that I am cursed and gone astray!
Singing the first verse so convincingly,
he's forgotten the refrain...JESUS SAVES!
Who are we listening to? Satan telling us that we can never be good enough? Or are we listening to God who says, No, you will never be good enough, but I love you and will give you the strength to stand firm and overcome?! We have to listen to the whole story of the gospel, not just the first verse, where we recognize our sin and failure. Maybe satan hasn't seduced you into serious sin, but maybe he hasn't needed to...maybe it's been enough for him to convince you that you've gone astray and aren't worthy to serve God's kingdom, to stand on the front lines proclaiming Christ...maybe he's convinced you that you don't love God enough to receive His love. I don't know about you, but I don't want to give in or give up so easily. We have to see ourselves the way God sees us...be convinced of His unfailing love for us and claim the promises He gives us in His Word! JESUS SAVES!
The father of lies coming to steal, kill and destroy
all my hopes of being good enough.
I hear him saying, cursed are the ones who can't abide.
He's right, Hallelujah, he's right!
The devil is preaching the song of the redeemed
that I am cursed and gone astray,
I cannot gain salvation...embracing accusation.
Could the father of lies be telling
the truth of God to me tonight?
If the penalty of sin is death, then death is mine.
I hear him saying, cursed are the ones who can't abide.
He's right, Hallelujah, he's right!
Oh, the devil's singing over me an age old song,
that I am cursed and gone astray!
Singing the first verse so convincingly,
he's forgotten the refrain...JESUS SAVES!
Who are we listening to? Satan telling us that we can never be good enough? Or are we listening to God who says, No, you will never be good enough, but I love you and will give you the strength to stand firm and overcome?! We have to listen to the whole story of the gospel, not just the first verse, where we recognize our sin and failure. Maybe satan hasn't seduced you into serious sin, but maybe he hasn't needed to...maybe it's been enough for him to convince you that you've gone astray and aren't worthy to serve God's kingdom, to stand on the front lines proclaiming Christ...maybe he's convinced you that you don't love God enough to receive His love. I don't know about you, but I don't want to give in or give up so easily. We have to see ourselves the way God sees us...be convinced of His unfailing love for us and claim the promises He gives us in His Word! JESUS SAVES!
Mind Wars-Christy
In my reading this week, Beth Moore draws out the scripture in Mark 12:28-30, when Christ answered the question, "Of all the commandments, which is the most important?" He answered, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength." She, Beth, then asks if we have ever really thought about what it means to love Christ with all our MINDS. As women we get the whole heart thing but it really hit me hard in regards to loving God with all my mind. The parts of my mind that I hold onto past hurts and pains. The part of my mind that I go to when I am feeling depressed. Do I really want to let Christ in those areas. Beth states in the book that having our minds sanctified is an ongoing, lifelong process, but absolutely nothing will have a greater harvest in your life.
I guess for me this was convicting. I need to let Christ bring his broom or maybe shop vac into my head and remove those negative thoughts, doubts and insecurities. I think that our own personal way of thinking can become such a habit that we do not know any other way. I am starting today and asking Christ to help me to think on things His way. And that includes how he sees me.
I pray you are keeping up with your reading:) I love all of our discussions and I gain so much from all that you bring up. May God guard your mind and heart as you continue to draw closer to your loving saviour!
Christy
I guess for me this was convicting. I need to let Christ bring his broom or maybe shop vac into my head and remove those negative thoughts, doubts and insecurities. I think that our own personal way of thinking can become such a habit that we do not know any other way. I am starting today and asking Christ to help me to think on things His way. And that includes how he sees me.
I pray you are keeping up with your reading:) I love all of our discussions and I gain so much from all that you bring up. May God guard your mind and heart as you continue to draw closer to your loving saviour!
Christy
Monday, October 6, 2008
How Is Everyone Doing??
Is everyone still reading their book? Liking it? Hating it? Wondering why they are reading it? If anyone else is like me, I don't always get my thoughts out during study...guess I'm just a little slow. By the time I get my thoughts together and start to speak up, the subject has changed...or Kristine has made a joke! :-) This is the perfect place to throw out your thoughts, ask questions, or ponder out loud, so we can get to know each other better. In case you aren't familiar with blogs, be sure and look at the bottom of each post. It will show the number of comments for that particular post and when you click on it you can read what others have said and leave your own comments. I know that people are reading, but ya'll are sure quiet!
Please prayerfully consider if the Unveiled Retreat is something God wants you to attend! Unveiled is a concept I have pondered since the idea was first revealed..."And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes form the Lord, who is the Spirit" (2 Cor 3:18). Is anything more important in the life of a believer in Christ? to reflect the Lord's glory to the world, a world that is ever growing darker? to be transformed into His likeness with ever-increasing glory? WOW!! That's exactly what I want for my life, but there is a cost! The veils we wear to hide our insecurities, weaknesses, sins, and past failures have to be lifted...not necessarily before the whole body of Christ, but most certainly before our gracious and loving Father who desires to restore us, that we may know the hope to which he has called us. We know that this can be a reality because the one who has called us is faithful and HE WILL DO IT! Let's turn to God together and unveil before Him anything we may be hanging on to that is preventing us from living our lives to the full...
A Testimony To The Power of Prayer in Marriage
Seven or so years ago (am I showing my age, here?) I was invited to MOPS through a mom at preschool. Everett and Marsha Johnson spoke at one of the meetings about marriage and spoke highly of the book "The Power of a Praying Wife". I would describe my marriage as "rocky" at the time. I had three year old twins and my life was stressful. We lived WAY out in the country and my husband worked all the time. I could elaborate on all the emotions that I felt at that time, but I'm sure you can figure most of them out on your own. Things would go well, for awhile, but the things we argued over never seemed to get resolved. I did buy the book, but was pregnant with Garrett and in the busyness of that time, put it up on the shelf without ever reading a page. I didn't look at it again until things began to slow down enough for me to start contemplating my situation a little more closely.
I became overwhelmed to the point that I was DONE! I wasn't happy and decided things would never change in my marriage. I made all the rationalizations in my head and started looking at my options. I read through the classifieds looking at what rent would cost and jobs that were available, trying to picture what our lives would look like, if I was a single mom. I'll admit I felt pretty hopeless at this point. My children's lives would have to change drastically, if I did this because I had been able to stay home with them up to this point. The thought of putting Garrett in daycare at 6 months old nearly broke my heart, but I wanted and deserved more...or so I thought. In God's infinite wisdom, He brought the book to mind again, and with a faint glimmer of hope I began reading it.
I had withdrawn emotionally from my marriage to the point that it was very difficult for me to read the chapters, let alone meditate on what they said and pray the way the author suggested. However, I did desire to please God in my decisions and gradually my desire to obey Him overcame my desire to be free from the constraints of marriage. My feelings for Damian didn't change drastically overnight, the walls I had built were thick and tall, scaling them wouldn't be easy. The only way through was to let God tear them down, brick by brick. In fact, to be honest, I didn't read the book to save my marriage. I read it because I wanted to convince myself that God agreed and that I could end it with His blessing. Obviously that wasn't in God's plans and at the end of it I realized that the battle had just begun. Instead of fighting with Damian, I was going to have to fight for Damian. This is a very difficult thing to do when love has grown cold, so I didn't really focus on Damian at all, at first.
Everything I did for Damian from that point on, I did because I knew it was what God wanted me to do and kept my eyes on Him. I could be the wife and mom God wanted me to be, regardless of whether I felt Damian deserved it or not. Well, through that process God began to change my heart and rekindle the feelings of love in my heart, which was painful at times. There were blessings along the way, though, which God gave to encourage me to continue on the journey. Damian and I have grown together and stronger in our commitment to each other, but we still have a long way to go. I realized that I was expecting Damian to fulfill me in ways that only God, through the resurrection of Christ, and the power of the Holy Spirit can. Damian is human and imperfect, just like me, but "God will meet all my needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus." (Phil 4:19) I don't believe that this only refers to physical needs like food and shelter, I believe it also means God will be there to love and comfort, to laugh with, to protect... I just had to realize that my needs needed redefined and I needed to learn to trust that God knows what I really need and surrender my will to His.
This testimony doesn't have a fairy-tale ending and my marriage hasn't really changed all that much, but my view of it certainly has and I know that God will use it to grow my faith and trust in Him. My feelings for Damian have also changed and even though I still get angry at the same things I use to, I know that our love can conquer our differences and forgiveness is a choice that goes both ways. Some people have heard bits and pieces of this story, but for anyone who doesn't know me well, I hope I haven't shared too much. I really felt God prompting me to share a week or two ago, but well, what can I say? I procrastinate on the tough stuff!
I hope everyone is having a great week and that you see God moving in your life!
Jenelle
PS. I'm always available to talk with anyone about this, or anything else for that matter. ;-)
Please prayerfully consider if the Unveiled Retreat is something God wants you to attend! Unveiled is a concept I have pondered since the idea was first revealed..."And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes form the Lord, who is the Spirit" (2 Cor 3:18). Is anything more important in the life of a believer in Christ? to reflect the Lord's glory to the world, a world that is ever growing darker? to be transformed into His likeness with ever-increasing glory? WOW!! That's exactly what I want for my life, but there is a cost! The veils we wear to hide our insecurities, weaknesses, sins, and past failures have to be lifted...not necessarily before the whole body of Christ, but most certainly before our gracious and loving Father who desires to restore us, that we may know the hope to which he has called us. We know that this can be a reality because the one who has called us is faithful and HE WILL DO IT! Let's turn to God together and unveil before Him anything we may be hanging on to that is preventing us from living our lives to the full...
A Testimony To The Power of Prayer in Marriage
Seven or so years ago (am I showing my age, here?) I was invited to MOPS through a mom at preschool. Everett and Marsha Johnson spoke at one of the meetings about marriage and spoke highly of the book "The Power of a Praying Wife". I would describe my marriage as "rocky" at the time. I had three year old twins and my life was stressful. We lived WAY out in the country and my husband worked all the time. I could elaborate on all the emotions that I felt at that time, but I'm sure you can figure most of them out on your own. Things would go well, for awhile, but the things we argued over never seemed to get resolved. I did buy the book, but was pregnant with Garrett and in the busyness of that time, put it up on the shelf without ever reading a page. I didn't look at it again until things began to slow down enough for me to start contemplating my situation a little more closely.
I became overwhelmed to the point that I was DONE! I wasn't happy and decided things would never change in my marriage. I made all the rationalizations in my head and started looking at my options. I read through the classifieds looking at what rent would cost and jobs that were available, trying to picture what our lives would look like, if I was a single mom. I'll admit I felt pretty hopeless at this point. My children's lives would have to change drastically, if I did this because I had been able to stay home with them up to this point. The thought of putting Garrett in daycare at 6 months old nearly broke my heart, but I wanted and deserved more...or so I thought. In God's infinite wisdom, He brought the book to mind again, and with a faint glimmer of hope I began reading it.
I had withdrawn emotionally from my marriage to the point that it was very difficult for me to read the chapters, let alone meditate on what they said and pray the way the author suggested. However, I did desire to please God in my decisions and gradually my desire to obey Him overcame my desire to be free from the constraints of marriage. My feelings for Damian didn't change drastically overnight, the walls I had built were thick and tall, scaling them wouldn't be easy. The only way through was to let God tear them down, brick by brick. In fact, to be honest, I didn't read the book to save my marriage. I read it because I wanted to convince myself that God agreed and that I could end it with His blessing. Obviously that wasn't in God's plans and at the end of it I realized that the battle had just begun. Instead of fighting with Damian, I was going to have to fight for Damian. This is a very difficult thing to do when love has grown cold, so I didn't really focus on Damian at all, at first.
Everything I did for Damian from that point on, I did because I knew it was what God wanted me to do and kept my eyes on Him. I could be the wife and mom God wanted me to be, regardless of whether I felt Damian deserved it or not. Well, through that process God began to change my heart and rekindle the feelings of love in my heart, which was painful at times. There were blessings along the way, though, which God gave to encourage me to continue on the journey. Damian and I have grown together and stronger in our commitment to each other, but we still have a long way to go. I realized that I was expecting Damian to fulfill me in ways that only God, through the resurrection of Christ, and the power of the Holy Spirit can. Damian is human and imperfect, just like me, but "God will meet all my needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus." (Phil 4:19) I don't believe that this only refers to physical needs like food and shelter, I believe it also means God will be there to love and comfort, to laugh with, to protect... I just had to realize that my needs needed redefined and I needed to learn to trust that God knows what I really need and surrender my will to His.
This testimony doesn't have a fairy-tale ending and my marriage hasn't really changed all that much, but my view of it certainly has and I know that God will use it to grow my faith and trust in Him. My feelings for Damian have also changed and even though I still get angry at the same things I use to, I know that our love can conquer our differences and forgiveness is a choice that goes both ways. Some people have heard bits and pieces of this story, but for anyone who doesn't know me well, I hope I haven't shared too much. I really felt God prompting me to share a week or two ago, but well, what can I say? I procrastinate on the tough stuff!
I hope everyone is having a great week and that you see God moving in your life!
Jenelle
PS. I'm always available to talk with anyone about this, or anything else for that matter. ;-)
Week Four Highlights - BOTH studies
UNVEILING OUR SPIRITUAL EYES
UNVEILING THE POWER OF PRAYER
This will be a time for you to really get personal with God and allow Him to show you if there is an area in your life He wants you to unveil. There will be some great worship and awesome Mexican Food prepared by some of the husbands in our church. (Now that is worth the price by itself, right? Not having to cook?)
ANYONE WHO TURNS IN THEIR REGISTRATION WITH PAYMENT BY WEDNESDAY NIGHT WILL GO INTO A SPECIAL DRAWING HELD AT THE RETREAT!!
Don't miss this opportunity! Let's come together for a special time of growing deeper in our faith and closer to one another...nothing beats a good Girl's Night!
- Guiding questions we discussed as a group:
- How would you describe your current season with the Lord? Ex. Mountain top, Steady as she goes, or Desert
- When you feel closest to God, what are you doing?
- How many people actively intercede for you on a consistent basis? Question from book pg. 120
- Ask your small group to pray for you, in a specific area, for the rest of the study.
- Spend some time finding a Scripture that goes with your prayer request. Concordances are available.
- Spend a few minutes in prayer together.
- Memory Verse Challenge for the week: "I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe." (Eph. 1:18-19)
- Read Chapters 9-11 in your book.
- Question of the week? Do you have a friend that KNOWS you? As Beth put it: the good the bad and the ugly?
- CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK: CHOCOLATE FOR EVERYONE WHO SHARES THIS WEEK ON THE BLOG! :-)
UNVEILING THE POWER OF PRAYER
- Guiding Questions for the Week:
- How does realizing, or being reminded that for a wife, sex comes out of affection and for a husband, sex is a pure need? What can i, or should I do with that truth?
- What does your husband feel is the best way for you to communicate love toward him? If you don't know, you might try and find an answer.
- Memory Verse Challenge: "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things." (Phil 4:8) Tack this onto Phil 4:4-7 from previous weeks.
- Self Evaluation:
- Have you seen your attitude toward your husband change in some way?
- Do you see a difference in your prayer life?
- Is there a place I need to unveil myself before God?
- Assignment for Week 5: Okay ladies, we are going to have to pick up the pace. The chapters for this week are 6-9. Answer as many of the reflection questions as you can, but don't feel like you have to do them all.
This will be a time for you to really get personal with God and allow Him to show you if there is an area in your life He wants you to unveil. There will be some great worship and awesome Mexican Food prepared by some of the husbands in our church. (Now that is worth the price by itself, right? Not having to cook?)
ANYONE WHO TURNS IN THEIR REGISTRATION WITH PAYMENT BY WEDNESDAY NIGHT WILL GO INTO A SPECIAL DRAWING HELD AT THE RETREAT!!
Don't miss this opportunity! Let's come together for a special time of growing deeper in our faith and closer to one another...nothing beats a good Girl's Night!
Friday, September 26, 2008
Week Three Highlights - Unveiling the Power of Prayer
- Guiding Questions for the Week:
- Do you believe that you could be seduced?
- Do you believe that Satan will attack our areas of weakness?
- Are you being sifted?
- Do you trust God with every inch of your past, present and future?
- Do you believe that leggings are coming back into style? (Christy shared a hilarious story about a woman's experience with this fashion trend that is making a comeback! I'll try to get a copy and post it, so everyone can have a good laugh!)
- Memory Verse Challenge for the Week: "And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?" Esther 4:14b
- Assignment for Week Three: Read Chapters 6-8 in your book and come ready to share and discuss.
- QUESTION OF THE WEEK: God gives us healthy boundaries and borders for our protection. In what area do you need to build yours up?
Week Three Highlights - Unveiling the Power of Prayer
- Guiding Questions for the Week:
- How can I support my husband in his work, to make things easier for him?
- Where do you want me to turn something over to you, Lord, and commit it to prayer, rather than trying to do it on my own?
- Memory Verse Challenge for the Week: "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:7 (We will add another verse next week, but if you are ready to move ahead, go on to verse 8.)
- Assignment for Week Three: Go over chapters 4 and 5, if you have already completed them, and really pray about this topic and where god wants you to be with it. He may want you to make a change, share from your heart next week, or seek wisdom and godly advice.
- RETREAT DATES: November 7-8, more info coming soon!
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Week Two Highlights - Unveiling The Power of Prayer
- Guiding Questions for the Week:
- What area of your heart, or thoughts in your mind, are not clean and pure right now?
- Are you willing to submit yourself enough to say, change me Lord?
- In what ways am I looking to my husband to fulfill my needs and expectations, when I should be looking to God?
- Memory Verse Challenge: "Rejoice in the Lord always, I will say it again: Rejoice. Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Don not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, present your requests to God." Philippians 4:4-6
- Objectives for the study:
- Strengthen your relationship with God.
- Deepen your marriage through prayer.
- Fellowship and accountability with women
- Scripture memorization
- Try to identify one that you seem to be targeting this week as you study and pray.
- Assignment for Week Two: Read Chapters 2-5 and complete the questions in the study guide that catch your attention. You may answer all of them, but don't feel the pressure that you have to, if you are limited on time. Pick out any that you would like to discuss with the group.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Week Two Highlights - Unveiling Our Spiritual Eyes
- Guiding Questions for the week:
- Do you believe you are a "prime" target?
- Do you allow God to put limits around you for your protection?
- Are you willing to HOLD ON for one more day?
- Do you believe that through Christ you were made clean? Ephesians 5:25-26
- Memory Verse Challenge for the week: "They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony." Revelation 12:11
- Objectives for the study:
- To shed light on Satan's massive campaign to seduce the saints.
- Remember how much our Heavenly Father loves us. We are NEVER too far that we cannot go home.
- That we, as Christians, will wise up to Satan's seductive schemes and fortify our lives before he traps us into something ungodly.
- Assignment for Week 2: Read Chapters 3-5 in your book and come ready to share and discuss.
- Challenge for the week: Please send a note or word of encouragement to someone in your life that has positively influenced you for Christ.
I Sought The Lord And He Answered Me!
Wow! What a night we had last night! The Spirit of God was present and moving and I am so grateful for everyones contributions to discussion time. How awesome to come together and share with each other, study God's Word and learn more about who He is, all while having a good laugh...or many as the case was last night! (Thank you, Kristine! Your quick wit always catches me off guard and has me in stitches!) I will post the "Highlights" from last night shortly for those who were absent, but received this devotional by email from Proverbs 31 Ministries and felt that it speaks so loudly about the very things we are studying together that I just had to pass it along to you. Also, for anyone not familiar with "blogging", commenting is very simple and if you're not ready to put your name in print, feel free to post anonymously. God can only begin to heal and restore when we acknowledge our needs and sometimes what we share is meant to encourage someone else and facilitate healing for them. So speak of, if you feel led, and of course feel free to give Chelle and Christy a hard time...it helps keep them in line! :-) Have a great day!!
September 18, 2008
My Secret
“I sought the Lord and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.
Those who look to him are radiant. Their faces are never covered with shame.”
Psalm 34:4-5 (NIV)
Devotion:
The young teenage girl named
Yesterday, you read Luann’s beautiful devotion about her making the last minute decision to not abort her baby. Sixteen years ago I was also a young woman panicked and sitting in an abortion clinic. Only unlike Luann and Sidney, tragically, I kept my appointment. And I can honestly say, the grief that entered my life that day has been one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to face. For years I kept this secret buried deep within my heart. I was so ashamed, so horrified, so convinced that if anyone ever found out I’d had an abortion, I’d be rejected by all my church friends and deemed a woman unfit to serve God.
So I suffered in silence, wrapped in a cloak of shame.
Going to church was incredibly hard during those years. I was convinced I was the only Christian woman who’d ever had an abortion. I’d never heard another Christian woman share this as a part of her testimony. Never did I hear of anyone speak of the hope and grace that Jesus provides to those of us who were suffering from making that decision. I only heard well-meaning Christians debate the issue of abortion with very strong words. Their words stung, made my heart seize and my eyes feel like they’d explode into a flood of a million tears.
Don’t get me wrong, the issue of abortion is serious and we should take a strong stand against it. But we must also remember that it’s more than a topic of religious and political debate. For one in three women within the church, it is one of the most painful parts of their life story. One for which they want to find forgiveness and healing, but are too afraid of being judged to share their secret with anyone.
So they suffer in silence, wrapped in a cloak of shame.
Sweet friend, is this you? Are you in this place? Can I offer you a lifeline today? There is hope and healing that can be found. It is possible to be forgiven and to let go of the emotional pain. For me, there were three things that helped my healing more than anything. First, I sought help from my local
Remember
Dear Lord, please tenderly give us the courage to face the secrets hidden in our hearts. Lord, we ask for your forgiveness. And we ask for your healing. Please help us see some kind of good come from our past mistakes. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Related Resources:
Visit Lysa TerKeurst’s blog to read the letter she wrote to her child that she referred to in today’s devotion.
Who Holds the Key To Your Heart? by Lysa TerKeurst. This book and Bible study were written specifically for people who are suffering in silence due to shame from their past.
Spend some time asking Jesus how He wants you to respond to today’s devotion.
Application:
Take time to pray for women in your community and church who are suffering from the pain of abortion.
Consider giving your time and resources to help your local
Power Verses:
2 Corinthians 1:3-4, “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.” (NIV)
Genesis 50:20, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” (NIV)
© 2008 by Lysa TerKeurst. All rights reserved.
Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G,
Matthews, NC 28105
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Did You Hear God Speak to You Tonight? Chelle
Did anyone hear God speaking to you tonight? I know of one person that definitely did! Pretty cool. Watch for her to share in this comment section. Anyone else? Don't be shy. Bless us by sharing your story.
He speaks to us if we have ears to hear. He shows us His glory if we have eyes to see.
I cant wait to see who comments and what they say! It's exciting isn't it?!
Waiting to be blessed by your stories,
Chelle
He speaks to us if we have ears to hear. He shows us His glory if we have eyes to see.
I cant wait to see who comments and what they say! It's exciting isn't it?!
Waiting to be blessed by your stories,
Chelle
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Where Did Everyone Go?
Okay, ladies, where did everyone go? According to my count there were more than 3 people at study last Wednesday. I'd love to hear everyone's thoughts on the question for the week! The more we can share with one another the better we'll get to know each other and be able to stand-in-the-gap for each other as the opportunities arise. I suspect that there are "lurkers" out there checking out the blog, but remaining silent...you know who I'm talking to! :-) Go ahead and speak up, or I might have to start shooting AGAIN! lol
Jenelle
Jenelle
Are you ready?~ Christy
Girls, I pray you have all had a wonderful week. I am sure it was quiet and peaceful. Plenty of time to read, study, take long naps, relaxing walks and watch as your children clean your house from top to bottom. Ok, Ok, I am obviously kidding. If you have taken any walks recently with Chelle you would know that they are anything but relaxing. That girl can move! But I do pray you have had time to meet with Jesus this week.
Beth Moore states in her Stepping Up book, "If we could hear the voice of God as we sit before Him, we would never cease praying. If we realized how much the sovereign Creator esteems our passion and leans forward to hear our vows to Him our relentless search for significance would finally end."
Lets practice listening for that quite voice as we try to sit still, if only for a few minutes, before our loving Father.
See ya tomorrow :)
Christy
Beth Moore states in her Stepping Up book, "If we could hear the voice of God as we sit before Him, we would never cease praying. If we realized how much the sovereign Creator esteems our passion and leans forward to hear our vows to Him our relentless search for significance would finally end."
Lets practice listening for that quite voice as we try to sit still, if only for a few minutes, before our loving Father.
See ya tomorrow :)
Christy
Reminder - Unveiling Our Spiritual Eyes
If any of you missed class last week, or have forgotten :-), here are the highlights from week one...
Love in Christ,
Jenelle
PS. I will be unarmed and not dangerous this week, so you have no need to fear! :-)
- Guiding Questions:
- Do you believe God can transform you and your circumstances?
- Do you believe Christ gives us the power to stand up against the enemy's arrows?
- Do you believe a strong Christian can be taken down by Satan?
- Do you believe you can be healed?
- Memory Verse Challenge for the week: "Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings." 1 Peter 5:8-9
- Objectives For The Study:
- To shed light on Satan's massive campaign to seduce the saints.
- To remember how much the Father loves us and that he desires complete restoration. We are never too far that we can't go home.
- That readers will wise up to Satan's seductive schemes and fortify their lives before he traps them into something ungodly.
- Assignment For Week One: Read the first TWO chapters in our book and come ready to share and discuss.
- THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK: Why did Christ come? Share your response on the blog!
Love in Christ,
Jenelle
PS. I will be unarmed and not dangerous this week, so you have no need to fear! :-)
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Week One Highlights - Unveiling The Power of Prayer
For those of you attending Tammy's study that were unable to be there last week, here are the Highlights, so you can be prepared for Wednesday...
- Guiding Questions for the week:
- Do you believe God can transform you and your circumstances?
- Do you believe God answers prayer?
- Do you believe He hears and answers your prayers?
- Memory Verse Challenge for the week: Psalm 32:8 "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go. I will counsel you and watch over you."
- Objectives for the study (Try to identify one that you seem to be targeting for this week as you study and pray):
- Strengthen your relationship with God
- Deepen your marriage through prayer
- Fellowship and accountability with women
- Scripture memorization
- Assignment for week one: Read The Power and Chapter One in the book and complete the study guide questions. Pick out any that you would like to discuss with the group.
Thought of the Week- Chelle
Okay girls let's get this blog thing going! When you came into When Godly People Do Ungodly Things you picked up a hand out and at the bottom of the page was a "Thought for the Week". So....I am sure that you have spent the last few days diligently pondering the thought so let's start throwing out some thoughts!
Okay, so some of you don't remember the the thought or worse than that some of you didn't read the handout or some of you were participating in other areas of study or ministry and did not receive the handout and because of that I will repeat the thought or should I say question of the week.....Why did Jesus come to earth?
Click on the comment section below and start reflecting! Use scripture to back up your answer or leave your statement and maybe someone else will know the scripture that backs your thought up. No pressure....just a fun way to stir up some blog conversation!
Let's encourage one another in the Word. So get your minds to thinking and your fingers to typing!
Chelle
Okay, so some of you don't remember the the thought or worse than that some of you didn't read the handout or some of you were participating in other areas of study or ministry and did not receive the handout and because of that I will repeat the thought or should I say question of the week.....Why did Jesus come to earth?
Click on the comment section below and start reflecting! Use scripture to back up your answer or leave your statement and maybe someone else will know the scripture that backs your thought up. No pressure....just a fun way to stir up some blog conversation!
Let's encourage one another in the Word. So get your minds to thinking and your fingers to typing!
Chelle
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Living for God ~Christy
Girls, I was so very blessed by all of you last night. My 5 year old, Sophie had so much fun she asked if Kids Club could please be every night. Thank you to all of you doing Kids Club.
We are in a battle and it is one that we cannot afford to loose. It is time that we stand firm together as sisters in Christ encouraging one another, holding each other up and pulling each other along. 1Peter 4:7 & 8 states, " The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers a multitude of sins." I love that! Sometimes we can get, or I should say, I can get myself so busy doing things that my mind is spinning. I need to have a clear mind to pray. But above all else just love on each other.
My prayer request for this week is balancing of my time. It is hard to fit it all in and maybe there are some things that I am not supposed to be fitting in. I am so thankful for you girls.
God Bless!
Christy
We are in a battle and it is one that we cannot afford to loose. It is time that we stand firm together as sisters in Christ encouraging one another, holding each other up and pulling each other along. 1Peter 4:7 & 8 states, " The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers a multitude of sins." I love that! Sometimes we can get, or I should say, I can get myself so busy doing things that my mind is spinning. I need to have a clear mind to pray. But above all else just love on each other.
My prayer request for this week is balancing of my time. It is hard to fit it all in and maybe there are some things that I am not supposed to be fitting in. I am so thankful for you girls.
God Bless!
Christy
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Welcome to Power of the Praying Wife-Unveiling the Power of Prayer
Hello ladies,
It has taken me some time to add my welcoming thoughts because I there are so many things I wanted to say. I am just completely dumbfounded that God has chosen me to lead this study on prayer.
I echo many of the words already spoken about fall. It is my favorite season. The beauty God gives us during this time makes me feel cozy. I long for those moments when I can take my latest bible study, a cup of flavored coffee and sit on my porch to spend time with God in the crisp, morning air. (I haven’t had enough of that lately.) Fall is a time to do new things: get out the sweaters and jeans, put up a few seasonal decorations, light warm scented candles, begin cooking more “comfort foods”, and to set new goals.
As a teacher, fall is not only my favorite season, but is an important time in my life as well. I feel the call God has placed on my life to be a teacher is just as strong as the call He has given me to be a mom. I do not take either of those responsibilities lightly, so each year I look for new, innovative, effective ways to not only teach my students the necessary content, but to make new relationships with each and every student God has chosen for my classroom. It is always a time of new beginnings for me that is not only exciting and rewarding, but challenging.
This fall God put an additional call on my life to lead my first women’s bible study. He is certainly stretching me girls!!!!! Teaching middle school students is one thing, but hoping to impart wisdom from our Lord to women, many of whom I look to for spiritual guidance and help, is another thing entirely. In no way do I have marriage by the tail, and I should know God’s word much better than I do; but I do know God does not call the qualified, but he qualifies those He calls (Praise Him!!!). I am going to hold our Lord to that promise as we spend these next several weeks together. I am so excited to see what God is going to do in our midst.
So, take a moment to breathe in the crisp, fall air God has given us, watch for the beauty of his majesty in the leaves, and dive into this study expecting God to do a new thing in your midst.
Philippians1:3-6 “I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it out to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Amen!!!!!
In Him,
Tammy
It has taken me some time to add my welcoming thoughts because I there are so many things I wanted to say. I am just completely dumbfounded that God has chosen me to lead this study on prayer.
I echo many of the words already spoken about fall. It is my favorite season. The beauty God gives us during this time makes me feel cozy. I long for those moments when I can take my latest bible study, a cup of flavored coffee and sit on my porch to spend time with God in the crisp, morning air. (I haven’t had enough of that lately.) Fall is a time to do new things: get out the sweaters and jeans, put up a few seasonal decorations, light warm scented candles, begin cooking more “comfort foods”, and to set new goals.
As a teacher, fall is not only my favorite season, but is an important time in my life as well. I feel the call God has placed on my life to be a teacher is just as strong as the call He has given me to be a mom. I do not take either of those responsibilities lightly, so each year I look for new, innovative, effective ways to not only teach my students the necessary content, but to make new relationships with each and every student God has chosen for my classroom. It is always a time of new beginnings for me that is not only exciting and rewarding, but challenging.
This fall God put an additional call on my life to lead my first women’s bible study. He is certainly stretching me girls!!!!! Teaching middle school students is one thing, but hoping to impart wisdom from our Lord to women, many of whom I look to for spiritual guidance and help, is another thing entirely. In no way do I have marriage by the tail, and I should know God’s word much better than I do; but I do know God does not call the qualified, but he qualifies those He calls (Praise Him!!!). I am going to hold our Lord to that promise as we spend these next several weeks together. I am so excited to see what God is going to do in our midst.
So, take a moment to breathe in the crisp, fall air God has given us, watch for the beauty of his majesty in the leaves, and dive into this study expecting God to do a new thing in your midst.
Philippians1:3-6 “I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it out to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Amen!!!!!
In Him,
Tammy
...As Long as it is Called Today... by Chelle
I am so glad you joined us on this adventure! Jenelle did a great job setting up this blog and I can't wait to see how God uses it.
I love God and His Word. I love to read it and study it. I love it when He shares some truth with me. But most of all, I love to see His glory in action. I get so overwhelmed with emotion when I see Him working, when He shows me that He is real and alive. And I know that if I have eyes to see, ears to hear and a heart that believes He has got some GLORY to unveil right before me! I want to be a part of it. I want to feel it. I want to touch it. Don't you?
It seemed so simple to type all of that out BUT, you and I both know that in this world there is "not a lot of simple" going on. In the paragraph above I wrote some of the things I love. As much as I want to see and live a life abundant in Christ there is something lurking out there trying to do all that he can to destroy my thoughts, my desires and ultimately my life so that I don't taste any of God's goodness and (so sadly) that God can't unveil His glory through me. There is something out there that doesn't want you or I to fulfill our plan set out by the King of all King's.
And what is that plan for each one of us? I don't know exactly, but what I do know is that the plan includes hope, prosperity and a future. I know this to be true and that's why I get so fired up 'til I just can't sit on it any longer... so bear with me as I pour out my heart to you....
I AM SICK TO DEATH. I AM ANGRY. AND I AM READY TO FIGHT. Girls, in the last year and a half my eyes have REALLY been opened to the real attacks we, as women, are under. Of course, before that I knew there was spiritual warfare. No doubt I knew it was real and had seen and felt its devastating arrows. I knew the power of prayer and the power of God's Word. I have seen and felt the power of God's healing touch. I have had personal victories and quietly(and sometimes not so quietly) suffered defeats. But especially in this last year and a half I have realized that I don't have to sit and take it.
There is power in His Word, there is power in His Name and there IS a reason why Jesus tells us to be self-controlled and alert. He tells us to resist the devil and stand firm in the faith. He tells us this because He knows first hand that satan is prowling around looking for someone to devour. I don't want to be devoured and I don't want to spend one more night hovered over the toilet sick because another friend has been seduced by satan's lies.
God is calling us to open our eyes, our ears and to believe with our hearts....He's got some glory to unveil and we must awaken to the attacks against us so that we don't miss it.
I believe that He who is in us is greater than he who is in the world.
It may not be simple. We may have to get out of our(or should I say satan's) comfort zone. We may have to fight and believe like never before, BUT it is worth it! Blessed are those who hear and obey the Word of God. If anyone tells you otherwise....we better assume it is satan's voice. Because our God says, "Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts as you did in rebellion, during the time of testing in the desert, where your fathers tested and tried me and for forty years saw what I did. That is why I was angry with that generation, and I said, "Their hearts are always going astray, and they have not known my ways. So I declared on oath in my anger 'They shall never enter my rest.'" Hebrews 3:7-11. It goes on to say, "But encourage one another daily, as long as it called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness."
Please encourage me in His truth and I will try to do the same for you. I am looking for a blessing. Aren't you?
With much love-
Chelle
I love God and His Word. I love to read it and study it. I love it when He shares some truth with me. But most of all, I love to see His glory in action. I get so overwhelmed with emotion when I see Him working, when He shows me that He is real and alive. And I know that if I have eyes to see, ears to hear and a heart that believes He has got some GLORY to unveil right before me! I want to be a part of it. I want to feel it. I want to touch it. Don't you?
It seemed so simple to type all of that out BUT, you and I both know that in this world there is "not a lot of simple" going on. In the paragraph above I wrote some of the things I love. As much as I want to see and live a life abundant in Christ there is something lurking out there trying to do all that he can to destroy my thoughts, my desires and ultimately my life so that I don't taste any of God's goodness and (so sadly) that God can't unveil His glory through me. There is something out there that doesn't want you or I to fulfill our plan set out by the King of all King's.
And what is that plan for each one of us? I don't know exactly, but what I do know is that the plan includes hope, prosperity and a future. I know this to be true and that's why I get so fired up 'til I just can't sit on it any longer... so bear with me as I pour out my heart to you....
I AM SICK TO DEATH. I AM ANGRY. AND I AM READY TO FIGHT. Girls, in the last year and a half my eyes have REALLY been opened to the real attacks we, as women, are under. Of course, before that I knew there was spiritual warfare. No doubt I knew it was real and had seen and felt its devastating arrows. I knew the power of prayer and the power of God's Word. I have seen and felt the power of God's healing touch. I have had personal victories and quietly(and sometimes not so quietly) suffered defeats. But especially in this last year and a half I have realized that I don't have to sit and take it.
There is power in His Word, there is power in His Name and there IS a reason why Jesus tells us to be self-controlled and alert. He tells us to resist the devil and stand firm in the faith. He tells us this because He knows first hand that satan is prowling around looking for someone to devour. I don't want to be devoured and I don't want to spend one more night hovered over the toilet sick because another friend has been seduced by satan's lies.
God is calling us to open our eyes, our ears and to believe with our hearts....He's got some glory to unveil and we must awaken to the attacks against us so that we don't miss it.
I believe that He who is in us is greater than he who is in the world.
It may not be simple. We may have to get out of our(or should I say satan's) comfort zone. We may have to fight and believe like never before, BUT it is worth it! Blessed are those who hear and obey the Word of God. If anyone tells you otherwise....we better assume it is satan's voice. Because our God says, "Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts as you did in rebellion, during the time of testing in the desert, where your fathers tested and tried me and for forty years saw what I did. That is why I was angry with that generation, and I said, "Their hearts are always going astray, and they have not known my ways. So I declared on oath in my anger 'They shall never enter my rest.'" Hebrews 3:7-11. It goes on to say, "But encourage one another daily, as long as it called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness."
Please encourage me in His truth and I will try to do the same for you. I am looking for a blessing. Aren't you?
With much love-
Chelle
Girls, I am so excited to be back in study with you. Fall is my favorite time of year, getting the kids settled back in school, the air getting cool outside and pulling on my favorite warm sweater. I am looking forward to seeing all your faces!
When Godly People do Ungodly things by Beth Moore is a book on arming yourself against spiritual warfare. I know we will have wonderful discussions as we learn how to protect ourselves against the enemy of this world. Beth Moore states in the opening of her book her prayer for us as we begin:
~that God will use the pages of this book to shed light on Satan's massive campaign, in our current and future generations, to seduce the saints.
~that God will use this message to remind a battered and bruised believer how loved she is and how much the Father longs for her complete restoration. We have never gone so far that we can not come home. Oh, thank you, Lord!
~that many readers will wise up to Satan's seductive schemes and fortify their lives before he traps them into something ungodly.
Girls, God is calling us to go deeper with Him. So...whether you are doing the Beth Moore study, the Power of the Praying Wife or working with our precious children, God is there cheering us on. Lace up those running shoes and start your training. The race is not over until Jesus welcomes us home across that finish line.
~Christy
When Godly People do Ungodly things by Beth Moore is a book on arming yourself against spiritual warfare. I know we will have wonderful discussions as we learn how to protect ourselves against the enemy of this world. Beth Moore states in the opening of her book her prayer for us as we begin:
~that God will use the pages of this book to shed light on Satan's massive campaign, in our current and future generations, to seduce the saints.
~that God will use this message to remind a battered and bruised believer how loved she is and how much the Father longs for her complete restoration. We have never gone so far that we can not come home. Oh, thank you, Lord!
~that many readers will wise up to Satan's seductive schemes and fortify their lives before he traps them into something ungodly.
Girls, God is calling us to go deeper with Him. So...whether you are doing the Beth Moore study, the Power of the Praying Wife or working with our precious children, God is there cheering us on. Lace up those running shoes and start your training. The race is not over until Jesus welcomes us home across that finish line.
~Christy
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
IT'S NOT TOO LATE!!
Okay, ladies, registrations have been trickling in and I, personally, can't wait to get started on a new book, but WHERE ARE THE REST OF YOU!! I just know there are many of you feeling the nudge to sign-up, but something keeps standing in the way. Well, I just want you to know that the September 1st deadline is not hard-and-fast and we'd love to have anyone come...even if you decide Wednesday, September 10th, at 6:15! Which, by-the-way, is usually how I decide to do most things in my life! :-)
Also, please be in prayer for the women coming, or that need to come...that their hearts will be prepared to hear what God has to say to them, that lives will be changed for His glory. Pray for Chelle, Christy, Tammy, and Elaina as they prepare for class each week...that God will speak loudly through them. Finally, pray for the retreat in November. It's going to be an awesome night of fun, fellowship, and unveiling our lives - hearts, minds, eyes, and power! Pray that all activities will be planned according to God's will and the message He has for each of us will be proclaimed.
If anyone reading this is sitting on the fence, trying to decide whether or not to come to Bible Study, pray and ask God if this is where He wants you to be on Wednesday nights...committing to seeking Him with all your heart! But, of course, no pressure! LOL
See you soon!
Jenelle
PS. Both studies begin on Wednesday, September 10th, and meet from 6:30 - 8:00pm. One is called Unveiling the Power of Prayer, using the use the book "The Power of a Praying Wife" by Stormie Omartian, and focusing on learning how to tap into the power of prayer. The book is $10 and the study guide is $5. The study will be led by Tammy Cox and Elaina Willhite.
The second study is called Unveiling Our Spiritual Eyes, using the book "When Godly People Do Ungodly Things" by Beth Moore, and revealing the reality of spiritual warfare and how to be fool-proof against Satan's attacks. It will be led by Chelle Knapp and Christy Pray. The book is $15
Please let me know, if you'd like to have a book reserved for you! 316-655-6493 or kortefarms@sktc.net.
Also, please be in prayer for the women coming, or that need to come...that their hearts will be prepared to hear what God has to say to them, that lives will be changed for His glory. Pray for Chelle, Christy, Tammy, and Elaina as they prepare for class each week...that God will speak loudly through them. Finally, pray for the retreat in November. It's going to be an awesome night of fun, fellowship, and unveiling our lives - hearts, minds, eyes, and power! Pray that all activities will be planned according to God's will and the message He has for each of us will be proclaimed.
If anyone reading this is sitting on the fence, trying to decide whether or not to come to Bible Study, pray and ask God if this is where He wants you to be on Wednesday nights...committing to seeking Him with all your heart! But, of course, no pressure! LOL
See you soon!
Jenelle
PS. Both studies begin on Wednesday, September 10th, and meet from 6:30 - 8:00pm. One is called Unveiling the Power of Prayer, using the use the book "The Power of a Praying Wife" by Stormie Omartian, and focusing on learning how to tap into the power of prayer. The book is $10 and the study guide is $5. The study will be led by Tammy Cox and Elaina Willhite.
The second study is called Unveiling Our Spiritual Eyes, using the book "When Godly People Do Ungodly Things" by Beth Moore, and revealing the reality of spiritual warfare and how to be fool-proof against Satan's attacks. It will be led by Chelle Knapp and Christy Pray. The book is $15
Please let me know, if you'd like to have a book reserved for you! 316-655-6493 or kortefarms@sktc.net.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Why A Blog?
Why a blog, you ask? Well, one aspect we hope it provides is the opportunity to continue discussion throughout the week. Sometimes everything can't be said in the short hour and a half that we have together each Wednesday. A question may come to your mind as you're on your way to the car (A question other than, "Where are my children!")...post a comment! Let's dig deep and explore all aspects of our study, illuminated by the light of God's Holy word! There is so much power in the Word of God, but it is power that can only be unveiled by knowing what His Word says and praying for the discernment given by the Holy Spirit!
There is also the dilemma of how to include the many women who are unable to attend on Wednesday nights for any number of reasons. One big reason may be that they are serving within another ministry in our church, such as Kid's Club, Youth Group, Nursery, or Prayer Group. It is my heartfelt prayer that this will serve as a tool to keep us all more closely connected, despite our busy and often conflicting schedules. While the true source of our joy comes from Christ alone, we can be a great encouragement to one another on our pilgrimage to grow in knowledge and love for our God, if we make an effort to stay connected and invest in one another.
Also, it is inevitable that not everyone will be able to make it each week, so my goal is to provide a recap of each Wednesday's study, including any material shared that isn't part of the assigned reading, questions that are discussed, and insights shared...and of course what chapters need to be read by the next week.;-) Please remember, however, that this is a public blog, so be careful to share only thoughts you are okay with anyone reading and that will be glorifying to God as He looks down on us from the heavenlies.
I'm praying that you will join me in this attempt to tell the story, as we journey together to unveil in our hearts, minds, and lives the indescribable Almighty God that we serve and to unveil our true identities as daughters of the Eternal King!
"I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe." Ephesians 1:18-19
In His Love,
Jenelle
Also, it is inevitable that not everyone will be able to make it each week, so my goal is to provide a recap of each Wednesday's study, including any material shared that isn't part of the assigned reading, questions that are discussed, and insights shared...and of course what chapters need to be read by the next week.;-) Please remember, however, that this is a public blog, so be careful to share only thoughts you are okay with anyone reading and that will be glorifying to God as He looks down on us from the heavenlies.
I'm praying that you will join me in this attempt to tell the story, as we journey together to unveil in our hearts, minds, and lives the indescribable Almighty God that we serve and to unveil our true identities as daughters of the Eternal King!
"I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe." Ephesians 1:18-19
In His Love,
Jenelle
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Welcome!
Ladies,
I just love the fall season. From the fall fashions to the changing leaves to the sounds of football and the smell of school books in the air -- I am inspired by change. For some, though, change is tough and even scary. Change requires us to restructure our time, our closets, our dreams, our expectations, our plans, and even our hearts and minds.
I hope this fall, you'll be inspired to allow God to create change in your life -- change that will challenge you to draw nearer to Him (James 4:8) and change that will allow your eyes to be open to the battle that rages around all of us -- that is, the battle for our attention to be diverted from our one true God. If we want to grow up in our faith, we have to be ready and willing to allow God to pour out some radical changes in our lives. But don't worry. God always has perfect timing. He is never late. He will know when you are ready and He will prod you and I along if we need it. But be watchful (Habakkuk 2:1) for what He will say to you and what He will ask of you. Don't miss the change that is before you (Isaiah 43:18-19) and the incredible adventure you will have as you walk with the Lord (Deut. 11:8).
I must say that the enemy would try to keep you blinded and unconnected with both the body of believers and the truth (God's word and His Holy Spirit that reveals understanding). Don't let him! I challenge you to join us, study with us, laugh with us, cry with us, share with us, and ask questions with us as we begin to dig deep into topics of prayer and spiritual warfare.
I pray that God will draw you so near to Him during this fall that you will feel new life and new change in your very person. There is only one goal in life -- and that is Him. He is our reward. He is our goal. If our goals are for the perfect family, career, fortune, popularity, happiness, or even ease -- they are the wrong goals if they supersede seeking Him first (Matt. 6:33-34). When we seek Him first and desire Him most, then we are completely fulfilled in Him as He faithfully and creatively enriches our lives with more amazing life experiences, challenges (some are pretty tough and even painful!), and opportunities than we would ever have thought of ourselves.
God is good. Draw near to Him and see what He will say to you this fall as we 'unveil' together.
Love,
Kristey
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