Proverbs 31 Ministries Online Bible Study

I have been a part of a Proverbs 31 Ministries Online Bible Study for the past 4 weeks. We have been exploring "What Happens When Women Say Yes to God" by Lysa TerKeurst. We have a small group at work also following the study. We have been able to meet every week.

This study has been just what I have needed to get me back in God's word. I feel like I have been rejuvenated beyond words. It's been just enough reading and studying to not scare me off :).

If you've never done an Online Bible Study and you're interested in doing so - I highly recommend participating in one backed by Proverbs 31. I have been so impressed with the emails, the materials, the videos, the encouragement, etc. I could go on and on.

If you've never read anything by Lysa TerKeurst, you owe it to yourself to pick up one of her books and read it. She has a writing style that is easy to read and follow along. It's easy to relate to her life stories and situations.

Maybe on the next one - we can study together!
#YesToGod #StickWithIt #Amazed #PalmsUp

What Inspires You?

wordle.net

These are my notes from speaker Billy Hybels, Sr. Pastor at Willow Creek Community Church, The Global Leadership Summit, billhybels.org - It was geared towards church leaders but it can apply to your life in general!

What inspires/motivates you? What does it take to work in the motivated (inspired) state?

 

1. How does it matter how motivated one is?

When people work in a motivated state, there are forty percent fewer sick days, fewer health insurance claims. An employee will give more if inspired by someone. (Less Mondayitis)

2. Whose job is it to keep me motivated?

As a leader, it is my job to keep me motivated. No one else can plug in my cord. Take responsibility for my motivation and don’t blame anyone else. Surround yourself with inspiring/motivated people. What type of materials are you reading or reviewing? Make sure players on your team are inspiring people. YOU ARE EITHER MOTIVATING OR DE-MOTIVATING – which one will you choose to be?

3. Best way to inspire people around you is the live a motivated/inspired life in front of people.

4. What would work look like if people were inspired? 

5. Participate in exceptionally inspiring events. 

6. Pay attention to physical disciplines (taking care of self).

7. Pay attention to work environment because this can either add to the motivation or take away from the motivation. 

8. Have an inspiring hobby or recreation. 

9. Practice daily spiritual disciplines. 

Inspiration is contagious.

Learn inspiration language of members on your team. What inspires them? Is it:

-        Public praise?

-        Gifts (recognition)?

o   I do ________________ [ice cream truck, employee Olympics, derby day, mani/pedi] but people want ______________ [name anything different]. (Not everyone will like what you do to show people appreciation because people have different inspiration language.)

-        Remind someone how thankful you are for the good job she is doing.

-        Reduce and identify every de-motivating factor.

-        Celebrate every sign of progress with your long term goals. 

Acts 2:42 – Everyone was inspired or motivated and filled with a sense of awe.

1 Peter - It's all about community

It's all about community!    

(From Kregel and/or Sue Edwards) We have reached our sixth week of study already! I'm encouraged by how much we've learned about our priestly calling, about the Holy Spirit, about how to have a luminous faith. And I'm refreshed by the fun we've had too. I don't know if any other study has ever given me the chance to talk about chocolate, beauty, AND men :-).

This week we discuss what we all want during troubling times: PEACE. In the introduction to this week, Sue says, "If we are to survive in hostile times, we must learn to get along and to love one another as brothers and sisters in the family of God." I don't know about you, but I don't always find this easy. I'm looking forward to the challenge of pursuing peace this week!

Week 6 Instructions

What does the word harmony mean to you? Whether it is at home, work, or church, what is a practical example of how you have embraced harmony in your own life? Harmony to me is everything working together, without strife or complaining. It's when you each work together (whether at home, work, church) with a common goal in mind. Like - Saturday morning is cleaning day. You know it's cleaning day, so you each go about your tasks - without grumbling - and work together to get the house cleaned up for the week. (Ok, this doesn't happen in my house, but I think it's good example of harmony!) I feel a sense of harmony when we have worship services on Sunday. We're all there to worship the Lord, praise Him and hear from Him. (While there may be grumbling at some point, it's not during the service.) It's harmonious. I have been enjoying this study and this blog tour. We're almost done! Thank you Kregel Publications and Sue Edwards for allowing me to participate in this blog tour!

1 Peter - Week 5

Strengthen the Sacred Mix!  

Week 5

What are the two qualities that Peter instructs women to emulate? Illustrate how you or someone you love embodies those qualities. 1 Peter 3 Peter instructs women to emulate purity and reverence. Your beauty comes from the inside - not from being adorned on the outside. The unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit is of great worth in God's sight. I have tried to put this instruction to use, especially around people who aren't Christians. God desires people to be won over without words but by my behavior. I have a tendency to put things out there in my own way and those ways don't always show who my heart belongs to - the King of kings and Lord of lords. I'm grateful that we have gracious Father whose grace and mercy extends to all of us, especially when there is just too much of me! Father, more of You and less of me. Thank you Kregel Publications and Sue Edwards for allowing me to participate in this blog tour!

February 9th is Read in the Bathtub Day!

February 9th is "Read in the Bathtub" Day 
(Guest Post) 

Take a Break

By Linda Gilden

I held the dripping book by one corner. Water poured from between its pages. How could that have happened? Until this moment I had never even gotten a cover wet.

For years the bathtub has provided my favorite literary getaway. Preparation for bath time means gathering the essentials: a glass of cold water, one towel for drying, a small one for drying hands occasionally, a flashlight, eyeglasses (a fairly recent addition to the list), and a good book.

You may not be a bathtub reader but finding a daily time for yourself is important and reading enhances that special, individual time. Making the effort to have personal time each day has great benefits.

1. Keeps you grounded. The best way to start every day is with a personal time of devotion. Making a connection with God when you first get up gives you a solid foundation for the day. This time may include Bible reading, your favorite devotional book, and a time of meditation and prayer. 
2. Recharges your “batteries.” We were not created to go and go and go. We need a break. Life is busy if not frantic for most of us and burnout lurks just around the corner. A few minutes away from the family, workplace, and the demands that go along with them gives you new strength, energy, and perspective to face your day.
3.  Provides a time for enjoyment. Everyone needs to have a little fun every day. Reading is one of my favorite pastimes. So relaxing with a good book, whether in the bathtub, under a tree, or wrapped in a blanket in the recliner gives me a few minutes of enjoyment and entertainment.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).

Linda Gilden is an author, speaker, editor, and writing coach. She has written hundreds of articles as well as the Love Notes series, Mommy Pick-Me-Ups, and has ghostwritten or contributed to over three dozen books. Directing the CLASS Christian Writers Conference in Abiquiu, NM, she encourages others to clearly communicate God’s love to the world. Linda lives in SC with her family – a great source of speaking and writing material!

In March, the CLASS website will release news of the 2012 Christian Writers Conference: www.classeminars.org. Come meet Linda and the rest of the CLASS faculty there!

Picture courtesy of Days of the Year.

Alabama Disaster Relief - Blogging Program

http://www.topalarmsystem.com/alabama-disaster-relief

What an incredible opportunity I have been given to help with the tornado relief. If you blog, you have the same opportunity! You only need submit a blog post about the recent tornadoes in Alabama and submit the post to http://www.topalarmsystem.com/alabama-disaster-relief. A $25.00 donation will be made to disaster relief. So, come on people, let's write!

I cannot believe that in less than 9 months, parts of Alabama have been devastated by tornados. It's not even "far away" places, but places right around the corner from where I live and work. Places that I have visited and where friends live. One of the scariest aspects of a tornado is it seems to come out of nowhere. Sorta like an earthquake (been through that too). You cannot plan or prepare for the tornado days in advance like you can with a hurricane or snow storm.

So, what can I do to help these people whose homes have been destroyed by the tornados? Well, this is one way....donating money (by blogging no less) to a reputable organization. Christian Service Mission has a huge warehouse and they accept everything from groceries to building supplies. So, in addition to financial support, clean out your closet and donate your new to gently used clothes or household goods. Now, if you think it's trash, then it is trash. Don't donate it! (I helped sort donations after the April tornados and it changed my thoughts on what I will donate.) Do you like to get your hands dirty? Donate your time to cleanup efforts or rebuilding. Cannot do any of those things? PRAY!!

1 Peter - Week 2

Week 2 of 1 Peter, Finding Encouragement in Troubling Times
by Sue Edwards

Core One talks about getting ready, first with our minds. Sue directs us to verses in 1 Corinthians. Why is it important to start with our minds?

• We cannot understand all that He wants us to know without having the mind of Christ. We embody the mind of Christ when His Spirit takes up residence in our lives. Without His mind, we know nothing.  

Core Three begins with a quote from Blaise Pascal: "The serene, silent beauty of a holy life is the most powerful influence in the world, next to the might of the Spirit of God." 

• Our actions speaks louder than our words. I can tell you I'm a Christian - but does my life reflect that? Do I have any fresh fruit on my tree, or does it appear that God needs to do an extensive pruning job?

Love. It all comes down to love. What have you learned from God's Word that has helped you truly love others? 

• He loves me no matter what. His love is truly unconditional. If He can love me, even after all I've done, how can I not show that love to other people. When I find someone difficult to love, He seems to remind me of His love.

Fun! We get to talk about chocolate... What is your favorite food? Something you crave and thoroughly savor. 

• I love all things sweet. I don't really care what they are, as long as they are sweet! I think cakes are my favorite, especially cold cakes (not frozen, just cold).

On a more serious note, how do you learn to crave and savor God's Word?

• The more time I spend with God and spend in His word, the more I want Him. When I find my cravings going towards something other than Him, then I know I've strayed too far. I don't want a life that isn't filled with longing and craving for him.

How about some information about Sue Edwards? Here you go!

 

One of my favorite pastimes is to engage my students in provocative topics. For example, in my seminary courses, we discuss:

• navigating gender stereotypes that strap both men and women with unrealistic expectations that counter their gift-mix and personalities
• discovering how to do ministry in a postmodern pseudo-spiritual culture instead of a world dominated by rationalism 
• figuring out how to work together as men and women in biblical community while protecting our integrity

I love teaching at Dallas Theological Seminary, but after a full day tackling lofty subjects, I savor going home. Home means falling in a heap with my grandchildren in games like “Ring around the Rosie” and “London Bridges” or cheering on Wallace, my West Highland Terrier, as he protects our yard from bands of marauding squirrels.

When I wake up each morning, I pray, “Lord, help me not to mess up.” I have messed up before. I came to faith in my mid twenties, newly married with two baby girls. If not for his mercy, I would be another statistic, but he supernaturally showed me his grace. So for the last thirty years, I have served him.

Serving God has included teaching the Bible to women, overseeing two mega-church women’s ministries, writing four books and a Bible-study series, and now instructing seminary students in a world-class institution. These opportunities are God’s gifts and fertile learning ground. But I doubt you are impressed. People don’t care so much about credentials any more. Too many credentialed people have disappointed us. So I write out of flaws, failures, and occasional progress. I write out of the lessons learned in my day-to-day walk with Jesus, through highlights and heartaches, much like yours. I write from the everyday places--as I raised two-year olds and teen-agers, as I attempted to unify a discouraged ministry team, and today, as I attempt to create lessons for future ministers that will actually equip them for the challenges they will face.

God has truly opened “new doors” for me. And I’m grateful, but you know what gives me unbridled joy? Seeing God open new doors for you and seeing you step through them and shine. That’s our purpose, what keeps us writing, talking, and training others just like you. So stay in touch. Share your stories, tales of woe as well as wins. We want to grieve and rejoice with you. Give us feedback so we can learn from one another as we all prepare for new doors ahead. Who knows? Your insight just might show up in our next book!

Every blessing,
Sue

Follow along - Week 1

Thank you Kregel Publications and Sue Edwards for the opportunity to participate in this review and study process of this book!

1 Peter - Finding Encouragement in Troubling Times, Week 1

1 PeterFinding Encouragement in Troubling Times

by Sue Edwards  

• This study (and all Sue Edwards studies) offer three levels so you can choose which level of study fits your lifestyle.  

• I am committing to the first level of study, as I have a lot going on right now. I like that I can switch it around, week to week (or lesson to lesson).

• The first lesson is about preparing for opposition. Our first-century sisters faced hostility and hatred for their faith.  

• I face opposition on a continual basis because of my faith. It keeps me from doing "what the cool kids are doing" or being just like everyone else. I grab a hold of God's promises and His word when I feel attacked.

• 1 Peter 1: 3-5 reveals the amazing riches God provides for His children.

   ³ Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, ⁴ and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, ⁵ who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.

• I am blessed by the fact that my new birth (in Him) gives me hope and an inheritance! Oh the blessings He has for each of His children warms my soul. With Him on my side, I know I can face any trial. 

Thank you Kregel Publications and Sue Edwards for allowing me to participate in this graduated blog tour and study!

 

 

He speaks

I saw the words on Proverbs 31 ministry - I created the picture using picnik - have you tried it? Love it! I hope it speaks to you.

(Just in case the words are too small!)
He asks three words my parched soul thirsts for, “How are you?”

I’m weary. "I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10b (NIV)

I feel alone. “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:20b (NIV)

I can’t take much more. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28b (NIV)

I pour out, He pours in. An ebb and flow more natural than the ocean’s tides. My needy soul needs His words; needs Him: the Word.

Honduras Trip



View from Hermosa Church, where we were painting.



From June 18 thru June 25, a team from our church went to La Ceiba, Honduras. There were 22 of us! We wanted to be God's Hand and Feet and do whatever He lead us to do. Some people worked on electrical, construction, bio-filter. Some painted, evangelized, entertained the local children, trained and discipled others.

We painted at the Hermosa church. This was the view - gorgeous! The team went back a second day and finished painting, met with people in the community and provided discipleship training during a church service.



The beach!




We spent about 15 minutes at the beach! Isn't it pretty?

One of the last bus rides - heading to San Pedro Sula

We spent a lot of time on buses going back and forth to the compound. This bus was air conditioned and comfortable, or at least it was from where I was sitting (in the first row on the right). (Our first bus was air conditioned by having all the windows open :0)!)



Shalom Dorm - "The Girls"


My favorite time was talking with "the girls" at the Shalom dorm. We only spent about an hour with them, but we were able to help them finesse their Chicken Dance techniques :)!
Shalom Dorm

On Father's day, we went to church and enjoyed worshiping with the locals in an English/Spanish service. We were able to sing Happy Birthday and Happy Father's day to several people! We were invited to stay for Father's day cake! During the service, this little girl had a flag and stood at the front twirling her flag to the music - so precious.

We ate breakfast and lunch at the compound (mission). Wow there was some great food! I think we had beans with each meal. Sister Eleanor's upside down pineapple cake was a huge hit, along with the mango puree/jam. For dinner, we had several well known restaurants we could go to - Pizza Hut, KFC, Popeyes, Burger King and Quizno's. There was a Dunkin Donuts/Baskin Robbins right next to the hotel. I enjoyed some BR Rocky Road! YUMMM!

Many of us battled a virus or a bug while we were there. There was a medical team at our hotel (from Columbiana, of all places) and they graciously checked us out and provided medicine for us. It was their opinion that we had caught a virus while in the States and we were not suffering from Montezuma's revenge! Although I felt like something was getting some type of revenge on me and I battled with it almost the whole week (truth be told - it hasn't finished running its course). I was very thankful for an air conditioned hotel room.The return flight home was a little challenging and took us several hours longer than we anticipated - but we made it back safe and sound!

I appreciate my daughter and my roommates caring for me. I enjoyed the time we were able to spend praying together for our trip and other ongoing mission trips. Thank you for your prayers and financial support.

God prepared the soil and gave us the seeds to sow. He  knows the plans He had for us during the trip and I rest assured that they were accomplished. I enjoyed meeting new people and spending time with the ones I already knew.

I will close with one quick and final story. Meagan was trying to clean up our dinner mess (from eating in the lobby). She was using her limited Spanish and hand motions to request a trash bag. After that was accomplished, she took the remaining KFC chicken strips to the clerks to see if they wanted it. Again, using her limited Spanish and her hand motions (for eating and saying nom nom nom), one of the clerks took the box and then in her most serious voice said, "We understand English". All of us bust out laughing - it was great!

(I just can't seem to get the formatting right - sorry for the wonkiness!)

Why Go?

In a couple of weeks, my oldest daughter and I will be headed to Honduras on a mission trip with our church. We wanted to go on a mission trip together and this seemed like just the place for us to go! (I tried to get her to agree to India, but so far the love God has given me for India has not really made it to anyone else in the family.)

The timing of the trip and trying to raise funds has been difficult, in light of the devastating events in our state and in other parts of the country. It was very difficult to ask for money to go overseas when there is so much to do right here in our own area. I've been asked why would I go overseas when there is so much to do here...in our local community, area, country.

Well, the first reason is because Jesus told us to go and He gives the resources to go. The second reason is...well...He's done so much in my life that I just want everyone to know. I want His glory to shine through the world.  I am overwhelmed by His grace and mercy. I want that girl who has been rescued from the sex trade to know that through the blood of Jesus Christ, she is pure. She is dressed in robes of righteousness. She is adorned with His jewels. She is loved by the Creator. That her life is worth so much than she could ever imagine. God knows the plans He has for her and He sent His one and only Son for her. Through Jesus Christ she can overcome the past. I know this because it's what He's done for me. (There are a lot of "I"'s in this paragraph but it's all about Him.)

Of course, my past was a series of bad choices and decisions not actions that others took on my behalf. But, I still came to Him broken and unpure. And oh how He loves me and has redeemed me. I will go and share wherever He sends me and desires for me to go. How can I not share what He's done in me?

But again, why do I have to go "to the ends of the earth" when I could share that same information here with people? Because...He tells me to do so. It makes a difference to hear the Good News from someone who is different from you and who has different experiences than you. It's one of those times when it is really great to be different. It's the difference that allows God's glory to shine through.

But what about the people here? I don't know about you, but I don't even have to leave my house to see a ministry need. Can I get an amen?!?

I share God's story from afar with the people here. Because, there is something to be said when you can hear the story first hand and from someone you know.  Don't you agree?

When I was first sending out letters requesting donations, I asked, "How can I send out letters asking for money when we've just had devastating tornadoes blow through our state and funds are being used for those people?" I was told, "You have to do what God has called you to do and believe and trust in Him for the rest." Meagan and I needed $3,000. We have almost $2,500! How great is our God?  I stand amazed at Him and all that He's done.

Next time you wonder why someone is going so far away when so much can be done here, I challenge you to ask yourself..."Why am I asking that? What am I doing, locally or away? How can I help here or there? What does missions look for me?" Don't just ask and not do - ask the One who knows all what YOU can do for Him. It's worth it of that I know!

Thank you for your support and your prayers are surely coveted!


Acts 1:8 (NIV)
"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."


Matthew 28:19 (NIV) 
"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit..."

Compassion in the Phillipines

McShane and His Bucket List

This post is written by my brother-in-law, Mike Davis, about his son (and my nephew), McShane. I think what he says is far better than what I can, so I'll leave it up to him.

Hello,

 

I would first like to wish everyone a happy Thanksgiving and a wonderful holiday season to all.

Now the tough part...McShane has made his bucket list and we are hoping to make a difference if you have time, please forward this letter to as many people as possible you never know who can help out, don't worry about the sensitive information on the bank account. Bank of America is ready.

 

Sincerely,

Michael Davis

My Childs Bucket List

4466 Clipper Cove Destin, Fl. 32541

Phone 850-393-6943

I am are writing this letter on behalf of Michael Shane Paton aka (McShane) as you may already know Since Feb 2009  15 year old McShane  has been dealing with a very bad cancer named Osteosarcoma which is a bone cancer that effects only a few children worldwide a year. After aggressively fighting and with over 20 surgeries, removing tumors, losing his right leg to this awful cancer the doctors at St Jude’s informed McShane and his family that after the 16 month treatment in Memphis the cancer has returned, the experimental drugs did not work and this will be terminal, but they could try more chemo and maybe radiation if he wanted. McShane informed the great doctors there, “that he was not doing anymore chemo and he was going home to have fun”. During this time McShanes’ attitude has been great and he always has a big smile for everyone… all the time. He has insisted on going to school and living life to its fullest, witch brings me to his bucket list. After returning home he wanted to make a list of things he wished to do or have before he goes to heaven. This by far is the hardest thing a family can go through. He is the strongest person I know ,not even a ‘’why me?’’ or “poor me” along the way. He demonstrates daily   what it means to be a survivor and champion, his faith is strong and his spirits’ are good. Even after all of this very hard stuff he gets up with anticipation and hope of what the new day will bring. He has had many days of pain and fear, and at the end of it, the hard truth, that he will probably die from this disease. How much more can the child take? I ask myself. I have seen him hold his head high even when people at the water park stared at him because he lost a limb, scars allover and was different. He has not let this cancer dictate what he can or cannot do. Because of his ability to draw strength from this experience and his real desire to live, I feel like it is my responsibility to provide him with as many of the experiences and wants that we can from his bucket list, with your help that is what we plan to do..  Thank you in advance for all your prayers and support

 Bucket list

1000 dollar visa card for shoes and other items
Cruise to Hawaii and go offshore fishing there!

Golf cart with stereo
Pittsburgh Steelers home game! :)
Ice pilots game
Hemingway’s on Pensacola beach
Go to lee and ricks oyster bar
LSU football game
Xbox 360 the new black one
I-phone 4 with unlimited everything plan from AT&T
Acme oyster house...
         
Love Mcshane

We have founded a nonprofit org. the # N10000007461 you can put this number on your check to help in the giving it’s a tax deductible account at Bank Of America the account # 229037173008 the name of the account is My Childs Bucket List Inc. if you wish to do a wire transfer you can 026009593 then account # 229037173008 the funds will help with the end of life care not to mention his bucket list If needed you can mail or send to My Childs Bucket List 4466 Clipper cove Destin Fl 32541 also attached is a letter from St. Jude’s confirming his unforgettable condition [note from cathy - I have the letter, it's not attached, but I'll gladly email it if you want]. If you have any question or concerns please give us a call at 850-393-6943. 

Sincerely

Michael Davis 

(Posted by Cathy Davis - proud aunt :0). cathys31gifts@gmail.com)

Ramblings of ...me...

I have so much rambling around in my mind but it's so hard to get it all out. Mostly, though, this year has just been tough. In preparing last year to go to India, I was told of various things that would probably happen. I was also told that many people have problems when they return (spiritual warfare). I thought I had escaped the "return home". I returned home; had a great Christmas; spent time with my husband and kids; took some various courses on prayer; life was going well. Then, in March, the bottom fell out and my husband left. Even though it has been 8, almost 9, months, I'm still in shock.

You know how you ask someone "What happened?" and expect she'll know the answer. Well, in this case, I honestly don't know. I can theorize all day long, and I have, but I am not sure he even knows. I changed everything in our marriage when I really started growing in relationship with God and maybe that's just it. I do know that regardless of why, it's happening and it's hard. But ... does anything ever happen without a reason?

In India, one of my friends told me to meditate on Psalm 27. It was "mine". Have you read 27:14? "Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!" I remember saying.."The only thing I see is 'wait'. I don't wanna wait". Well beloved, I'm learning how to wait on the Lord (and other people). I'm learning to trust in Him, to rely on His promises, to believe in Him.

After all these months, I can see other parts of this beautiful passage. Have you read verses 7 and 8: "Hear, O Lord, when I cry aloud; be gracious to me and answer me! [Oh and He has!]  8 You have said, “Seek my face.”My heart says to you, “Your face, Lord, do I seek.” [Oh yes I do!]

How about? v4 "One thing have I asked of the Lord, that will I seek after: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to inquire in his temple."

I wish I could say that I have all the answers and that I have handled this situation beautifully, but I don't and I haven't. I have had much support from my family, coworkers and friends. I know so many people have kept me lifted up in prayer because there have been times when I could barely lift my head off the pillow. I have received a lot of encouragement - so much that I'll never be able to thank you. God has shown me those who are His hands and feet.

Thank you, Abba, for sending Your love and encouragement through people that could only be sent by You. You are truly my Jehovah-Jireh and You have been my Jehovah-Shalom. Thank You for giving me strength to face each day. Any good people have seen in this situation, let them know it was from You. The only thing I ask for is that I continue to seek Your face.

Psalm 27 (ESV)

Anointed Transformed Redeemed

I'm currently studying Anointed Transformed Redeemed, written by Priscilla Shirer, Beth Moore and Kay Arthur following a Deeper Still conference.  It is based on the different stages of David's life.  It is a 6-week study, with each teacher spending 2 weeks on her topic.  I'm about to start Session 4 and I'm really enjoying it.  It's nice to have variety within one study.

Priscilla Shirer brought it when she talked about knowing who God is.  I really wanted a clip of that part of the DVD, but I don't think that's going to happen.  There's a woman, though, who posted the words and I'm going to share them here.  It's a powerful clip; these are some powerful words!

He is the first and the last, the beginning and the end.

He’s the keeper of creation and the creator of all.
He’s the architect of the universe and the manager of all time.
He always was, always is, always will be.
Unmoved, unchanged, undefeated and never undone.
He was bruised but brought healing. He was pierced but eased pain.
He was persecuted but brought freedom. He was dead and brings life.

He was risen to bring power. And he reins to bring peace.

The world can’t understand Him. Armies can’t defeat Him.

Schools can’t explain Him and leaders can’t ignore Him.
Herod couldn’t kill Him. Nero couldn’t crush Him.
The new age cannot replace Him and Oprah cannot explain Him away.
He is life. He is Love. He is longevity and He is the Lord.
He is goodness, and kindness and faithfulness and He is God.
He is holy and righteous and powerful and pure.
His ways are right, His word eternal, His will unchanging and His mind is on us.
He’s our Savior, our guide, our peace, our joy, our comfort, our Lord, and He rules our lives.
I serve Him because His bond is love, His yoke is easy, His burden is light and His goal for us is abundant life.
I follow Him because He is the wisdom of the wise, the power of the powerful, the ancient of days, the ruler of rulers, the leader of all leaders and His goal is a relationship with me.
He’ll never leave you, never forsake you, never mislead you, never forget you, never overlook you and never cancel your appointment in His appointment book.
When you fall, He’ll lift you up.
When you fail, He’ll forgive you.
When you're weak, He is strong.
When you’re lost, He is your way
When you’re afraid, He’s your courage.
When you stumble, He will steady you.
When you’re hurt, He’s going to heal you.
When you’re broken, He will mend you.
When you’re blind, He will lead you.
When you’re hungry, He will feed you.
When you face trials, He’s with you.
When I face persecution, He shields me.
When I face problems, He will comfort me.
When I face loss, He will provide for me.
When we face death, He will carry us all home to meet Him.
He is everything for everybody, everywhere, every time and in every way.
He is your God, and that, Sisters, is who you belong to!

- Priscilla Shirer (Deeper Still Conference)
 
Thank you to ilovebeingamomof4 for taking the time to listen to the video and record the words!

Reflecting Him by Carla McDougal (Guest Post)

It is my pleasure to be hosting a guest post from Carla McDougal regarding her new Bible study - Reflecting Him.  Enjoy!

The Burning Light

I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life – John 8:12

About twenty years ago, an experience opened my eyes to the light vs. darkness issue. After giving birth to Jake, our second son, I suffered from one of the common aftereffects of a natural delivery: hemorrhoids!

If you have ever experienced the throbbing pain of this annoying condition, you probably are empathizing with me at this very moment. A month after Jake’s birth, I awakened in the middle of the night to an immense pounding pain that ignited every nerve in my body. I quietly tiptoed to the bathroom to use the medicine I knew would provide immediate relief. As a thoughtful wife, I decided not to turn on the light because it might wake up my husband, Fred. I reached into the drawer for the tube of medicine, applied it liberally, and then staggered back to bed. Not thirty seconds later, I felt a fire ignite in my lower regions. Instantly, I realized the “hemorrhoid medicine” I had used was actually a tube of Deep Heat! Like a rocket in flight, I leaped from the bed to the bathroom, turned on the coldest water in the bathtub, stepped in, and bent over—well, you probably get the picture. In the meantime, Fred, awakened by all the commotion, walked into the bathroom and turned on the light to find his wife squatting in the tub with a horrid look on her face. He probably felt he was in the middle of a nightmare. I will leave you to imagine the rest of the story.

I learned a valuable lesson that night. If I had turned on the light, I guarantee I would have picked up the correct medicine. When we try to do things in the dark, we are apt to make wrong decisions. Equate this to our daily lives—if we live in Jesus’ light, He guides and helps us make the correct choices. By the way, in case you are wondering, the cold water did eventually relieve my throbbing pain, but my sweet husband continued to laugh for hours!

In Genesis 1:2–3, we read that the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and God’s Spirit was hovering over the waters. Then God said, “Let there be light,” and light appeared.

Imagine a world in total darkness. Think of the world before the creation of light. Light provides us with the ability to see the life on earth that God created. It produces energy, sustains the life cycle, supplies thermal heat, and much more. Without light, the world would cease to exist as we know it. Today, may your heart be enlightened as you focus on the gift of light.

This is an excerpt from Carla’s 10-week Bible Study, Reflecting Him: Living for Jesus and Loving It.

About Reflecting Him

Reflecting Him: Living for Jesus and Loving It is a ten-week women’s Bible study. Like Jesus’ parables (which teach important lessons by creating visual pictures for the reader), Reflecting Him uses familiar objects and situations (such as pottery, the human sensory system, and the sun-earth connection) and draws comparisons that help women become aware of Jesus working in various areas of their daily lives. The study is a unique and convenient lay-flat format, so you can write without that annoying bump (you know the one we're talking about.)

Each week is divided into five days (lessons), supporting the central theme for the week. Read the first two chapters (or weeks) online.

The study also has an online component through a Reflecting Him Bible Study Group on Facebook. Individuals working through the study on their own can still get the benefits of a group discussion while working at their own pace. Almost 200 people are in the group already and the discussions are really taking off.

This fall a leaders guide, videos, and music will be released to accompany the study.

About Carla

Carla McDougal is the founder of Reflective Life Ministries and Share Fair, an annual conference for connecting, equipping, and encouraging women in ministry. She speaks at women’s events, retreats, and conferences in the U.S. and internationally. Carla married her high school sweetheart, Fred, and they have four children ages 16 to 23 and live in Magnolia, Texas. Reflecting Him: Living for Jesus and Loving It (WinePress Publishing, 2010) is Carla’s first book, although she’s been involved in leading and teaching Bible studies for more than 20 years. Carla writes a Monday morning e-votional at her blog, Carla's Corner.

Want Carla To Lead a Lesson for Your Bible Study Group?

With every group purchase of 25 or more studies before August 1, Carla will lead a tele-lesson (over speaker phone) for one of your group meetings. Please email windy(at)reflectivelifeministries.org to purchase books. Mention the blog tour and tele-lesson at the time of ordering.

You can purchase Reflecting Him through Amazon, Christianbook.com, or Reflective Life Ministries.
The Reflecting Him Blog Tour, hosted by RedCouch PR, is June 20 - July 16. Yesterday's post was at author Janice Thompson's blog and tomorrow's will by at A Room Without Books Is Empty. Follow along to read a different guest post, interview, or review each day.

India Memory

Erin Healy was having a countdown to her 40th birthday and asked people to write about his or her dealings with the unseen (I hope I worded that right) in 400 words or less. I didn't make it in time so my entry was entered, but here it is for you to enjoy.


Before I left for India in November 2009, I spent more time in prayer and reading God’s word preparing for spiritual warfare. We were taught that when we went into a thanda (village) to say “Peace to this thanda” and if a man (person) of peace was there, our peace would rest on him (or her). However, if we went to a thanda where our peace wasn’t returned, we were to knock the dust of the thanda off our feet and leave (Luke 10:5-12).

At most of the thandas we visited, we were warmly welcomed. However, we visited one thanda that made the hair on my neck stand up. It started as we were making our journey down the dirt road, through the fields, and we saw in the distance a huge statue. I started getting a very uneasy feeling as we neared it. It was a huge statue of the monkey god which people worshiped (approx. 30 feet tall). Now most of the people we visited lived in huts and none seemed to have running water. The children’s clothes were raggedy and torn. There was no wealth in these thandas, yet someone could afford to make this huge statue?

When we arrived at the thanda, all the people gathered and seemed cordial enough. However, as the team started presenting the gospel, I could sense an evil presence there. The people became argumentative and hostile. If I could have hit my knees, I would have. I walked around with my bible (as is standard when someone is presenting the gospel) and I could sense the Holy Spirit saying our team was not welcome and we needed to knock the dust off our feet and leave. After hearing Him speak to me for a few minutes, I started rounding everyone up to leave. I wasn’t sure I would be successful – would they even believe me? I probably wasn’t convincing but the Holy Spirit was and soon we were washing the dust off feet and leaving. One of the team members had witnessed something so evil, she could not even share it with any of us.

I thank God that I am one of His children and that He has given me the ability to recognize things not of this world. More importantly, He will never leave me nor forsake me and will light my path. (Eph. 6:12) (Ps. 119:105)

P.S. I just finished reading "Never Let You Go" by Erin Healy and it's really good.

Psalm 86

I loved this Psalm of David.  I don't remember reading it before (though I'm sure I have at some point).  Maybe, it'll be new to you too!  This the NLT version.

Psalm 86

A prayer of David.

¹Bend down, O Lord, and hear my prayer;

answer me, for I need your help.

²Protect me, for I am devoted to you.

Save me, for I serve you and trust you.

You are my God.

³Be merciful to me, O Lord,

for I am calling on you constantly.

⁴Give me happiness, O Lord,

for I give myself to you.

⁵O Lord, you are so good, so ready to forgive,

so full of unfailing love for all who ask for your help.

⁶Listen closely to my prayer, O Lord;

hear my urgent cry.

⁷I will call to you whenever I’m in trouble,

and you will answer me.

 

⁸No pagan god is like you, O Lord.

None can do what you do!

⁹All the nations you made

will come and bow before you, Lord;

they will praise your holy name.

¹⁰For you are great and perform wonderful deeds.

You alone are God.

 

¹¹Teach me your ways, O Lord,

that I may live according to your truth!

Grant me purity of heart,

so that I may honor you.

¹²With all my heart I will praise you, O Lord my God.

I will give glory to your name forever,

¹³for your love for me is very great.

You have rescued me from the depths of death.

 

¹⁴O God, insolent people rise up against me;

a violent gang is trying to kill me.

You mean nothing to them.

¹⁵But you, O Lord,

are a God of compassion and mercy,

slow to get angry

and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness.

¹⁶Look down and have mercy on me.

Give your strength to your servant;

save me, the son of your servant.

¹⁷Send me a sign of your favor.

Then those who hate me will be put to shame,

for you, O Lord, help and comfort me.

Kingdom storming! (Updated again!)

)

*Update 5/15/10*
 McShane was supposed to leave St. Jude's earlier this week, but he stuck around and had some more surgery.  From what I understand, one of the places in his lung where a tumor was removed wasn't closing, so the surgeon had to close it.  From his Facebook post, he seems to be recovering and isn't in too much pain.  He seems to have been a little discouraged (naturally) and I asked people (on FB) to pray for all of them to be encouraged.  Thank you for praying!

I'll update more as I know.  Thank you, Father, for this technology which allows us to spread information to people who will stand at the gates of Your Kingdom and pray for this precious boy.  Oh how I love you so and I'm full of gratitude for all you have done, are doing and will do in McShane's life.


*UPDATE 4/28/10*

Good morning! I thought I'd pass along what I know of McShane to you. Thank you for the prayers and for caring! McShane had three surgeries - 2 to remove tumors from each lung and in between those surgeries, he had a lung collapse, so they took him to surgery for that too.


I think his parents have said it best, so I'll share their words from yesterday with you. This is from Mike:

McShane’s LAST SURGERY!!!!! Went well YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEESSSSSSSS thank you God we claim his healing in the name of Jesus!!! I love him so MUCH he should be leaving St. Jude’s in about a week and coming back to FLORIDA can't wait to go fishing...

From Hope:

CATHY- THE PATH REPORTS SAID 2 OUT OF THE 4 WERE CANCER.EITHER WAY THEY ARE OUT!!!!HE IS RESTING WELL AND WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO A GOOD RECOVERY AND THEN HOME TO FLORIDA!!I WOULD LIKE TO THINK THAT THE HARD PART IS FINALLY OVER AND BETTER DAYS ARE AHEAD.THANKS FOR ALL YOUR PRAYERS.

~*~

I sure hope better days are ahead! Have you read Psalm 62? It was part of my reading this morning and it's really good! Take a look at it and pray it over these dear people if you have the inclination.

Thank you for being part of our Kingdom storming on McShane's behalf. I love you!

Cathy

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

It's been a while since I've posted anything about my nephew, McShane.  He had completed his treatment at St. Jude's in Memphis in February, 2010 and he was sent home, cancer free!  We all celebrated this news!

While he may still be cancer free, two tumors have shown up on his lungs (one on each lung).  He and his parents are back at St. Jude's and tomorrow he'll have surgery to remove one tumor and then next week he'll have the other tumor removed.  It won't be until the tumors are removed will the doctor know if the cancer has returned.

Would you please join us in storming the Kingdom on McShane's behalf?  I pray for the surgeon's hands, the tumors to be non-cancerous, and for him and his parents to know the peace that transcends all understanding.  Thank you so much~
Agape~
Cathy

Receiving and Waiting

Another post of someone else's to share - but it's just so relevant to me.  When I was in India, my roommate and fellow church member gave me Psalm 27 to claim as my own.  I told her that what I saw when I read it was "wait".  I shared how that's not what I wanted!  Who wants to wait?  I think I remember hearing God chuckle when I said that and whisper "just wait".  So, I'm in a season of waiting patiently on the Lord and I'm believing Him for a miraculous restoration.  Any time I read something related to my current season, I feel compelled to share it.  Who knows - you might be going through something yourself.  Or, maybe I just want to refer to it again.  (I know I pray the Prayer for the Lost continuously.) Without making you wait any longer (ha ha ha I'm so funny)...thank You Lord for a sense of humor :0)

Receiving and Waiting

from Meet Me In The Meadow by Roy Lessin (love him!)

In your walk with God two things will always be true: You will be receiving from Him and you will be waiting upon Him. Your faith must trust Him for both. You need to receive from Him what is yours for today and wait upon Him for what will be yours tomorrow.
What are the things that are yours today and your faith can receive? Here are a few—you don’t have to wait for His peace, His grace, His mercies, His forgiveness, His cleansing, His truth, His salvation, His strength, His presence, His life, His blessing, His love.
Even though there are many things that are yours today because you are in Christ, there are also things that require your faith to wait. They include prayers you are waiting to see answered, promises you are waiting to be fulfilled, bible prophecies you are waiting to see happen, God’s timing in relation to your personal guidance, clarity to take the next step, and the coming of the Bridegroom returning for His bride.
What should your faith do in response to what is yours today? Receive! What should your faith do in response to what will be yours another day? Rest! As you wait upon the Lord, wait with a quiet heart, not an anxious one; with a thankful heart, not a complaining one; with a peaceful heart, not a striving one; with a hopeful heart, not a discouraged one; with a confident heart, not an uncertain one; with a steadfast heart, not a wavering one; with a patient heart, not a hasty one.
You do not need to try and control or manipulate your future. God is able to fulfill all that He has said and all that He has promised. As you wait, continue to pray, continue to trust, continue to believe, continue to hold hope in your heart, continue to obey, and continue to rejoice every more. You have a God who cannot and will not fail!
His timing and His timetable are always perfect. He knows what He is doing and He does it well. Remember, all creation testifies to the wisdom of His ways—in time the green fruit ripens, the wheat becomes golden, the baby bird takes flight, the sapling spreads its branches, the peonies flower, the gardenia gives its fragrance, the sunflower brings forth its abundance of seeds.
Wait patiently for the LORD. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the LORD.
Psalm 27:14 NLT