It's been a whirlwind since we left Saturday for Destin. The place where we are staying is supposed to have WiFi, but it was spotty, and basically nonexistent. So, in order to have the Internet, I have to hang out in my brother/sister in law's room to be able to hook up directly to the modem (sorry Derek and Sherri :-)
I am copy/pasting in order to get the discussion questions posted tonight.
Love you all! Will post again later!
Cheri
1. Take a look at the bottom of p.103, starting with the question, “What word in Numbers 11:4 (NIV) is used to describe their desire for meat?” Discuss a number of specific ways craving something is different from wanting it. While you’re at it, continue a discussion Melissa and I started on a walk a few nights ago. We were talking about how you can tell you’re getting out of control with something when you start trying to be secretive about it. What do you think?
Monday, July 28, 2008
Beth's Message #4 - Week Five, Question Two
Being Lazy and Pasting the Discussion Questions:
Take a look at the top of p.108 under “Personal Reflection.” I loved this line of discussion starting with this question: “Have you ever tasted or brought back fruit from a future promise that had not been fully realized?” Discuss that whole first paragraph.
Take a look at the top of p.108 under “Personal Reflection.” I loved this line of discussion starting with this question: “Have you ever tasted or brought back fruit from a future promise that had not been fully realized?” Discuss that whole first paragraph.
Beth's Message #4 - Week Six
Hi Ladies,
I am in Destin this week and the Internet has been spotty, so I am going to be lazy and copy/paste the discussion questions. I haven't seen Beth's video yet (when I wrote this, it hadn't been posted yet), so if there is further clarification, I will include that later.
From Week Six:3. Turn to p.125 and reread (one of you aloud to the group) the excerpt Kelly included by Charles Spurgeon. What are a few things we often try to do rather than refer our doubts straight to God? Then, read John 2:1-5 and note how Mary approached the pressing problem. As you conclude today’s gathering, have a brief time of prayer, letting those that feel comfortable praying out loud simply state their need or problem to God in one statement, something like this: “Lord, there is no more _____________________.” Or, “Lord, I am ____________________________.” Then simply tell Him that you’re trusting Him to do something about it. Try to resist fretting over it this week but keep watching for Him to turn some water into wine.
I am in Destin this week and the Internet has been spotty, so I am going to be lazy and copy/paste the discussion questions. I haven't seen Beth's video yet (when I wrote this, it hadn't been posted yet), so if there is further clarification, I will include that later.
From Week Six:3. Turn to p.125 and reread (one of you aloud to the group) the excerpt Kelly included by Charles Spurgeon. What are a few things we often try to do rather than refer our doubts straight to God? Then, read John 2:1-5 and note how Mary approached the pressing problem. As you conclude today’s gathering, have a brief time of prayer, letting those that feel comfortable praying out loud simply state their need or problem to God in one statement, something like this: “Lord, there is no more _____________________.” Or, “Lord, I am ____________________________.” Then simply tell Him that you’re trusting Him to do something about it. Try to resist fretting over it this week but keep watching for Him to turn some water into wine.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Have you read The Shack??
Hey Girls,
Well, I was on vacation last week and I have fallen behind in my homework for NOGs. I am trying to catch up. However, while I was on my trip I read the book, The Shack. Have any of you read it??? How about you LifeWay bookstore girls???
I wasn't quite sure what to think about it. I found it wild and weird, yet wonderful all at the same time.
I would love to hear from you all on this one.
By the way, I am coming to the Living Proof event in Louisville on Friday. Who else will be there?? Where can I find you?
Amy
Well, I was on vacation last week and I have fallen behind in my homework for NOGs. I am trying to catch up. However, while I was on my trip I read the book, The Shack. Have any of you read it??? How about you LifeWay bookstore girls???
I wasn't quite sure what to think about it. I found it wild and weird, yet wonderful all at the same time.
I would love to hear from you all on this one.
By the way, I am coming to the Living Proof event in Louisville on Friday. Who else will be there?? Where can I find you?
Amy
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Lifeway Visit
Yesterday, I had the privilege of meeting with our Kentucky Siestas that work at Lifeway - Connie, Karen and Katie (along with a few of their great co-workers)! Believe it or not, yesterday was my first visit to the store. Crazy isn't it? I've lived in Louisville all of my life, but haven't shopped there. We used to have a Christian bookstore a couple of miles from my house, but it closed (leaving us Southwest Jeffersonians with no bookstore, secular or Christian; no "better" clothing store; no mall within 15 plus miles....wah! wah! wah!).
Anyway, it was so good to put a face with the names of these wonderful ladies that I have grown to know and love! And I left with 42 dollars worth of merchandise and I wanted to buy so much more! I bought the trade book "No Other Gods" suggested by Karen, and I am halfway through it - it's a good narrative that adds to the Bible study.
Southeast Christian is gearing up for Living Proof event. I would love to be here, but I will be on the white beaches of Destin (and so will Yvonne's family). I know that everyone that attends will be blessed! FYI: Southeast Christian was requesting their home group to park in three remote parking areas and shuttle over. I'm sure that leaving early for the event each day would be good advice :-)
Anyway, it was so good to put a face with the names of these wonderful ladies that I have grown to know and love! And I left with 42 dollars worth of merchandise and I wanted to buy so much more! I bought the trade book "No Other Gods" suggested by Karen, and I am halfway through it - it's a good narrative that adds to the Bible study.
Southeast Christian is gearing up for Living Proof event. I would love to be here, but I will be on the white beaches of Destin (and so will Yvonne's family). I know that everyone that attends will be blessed! FYI: Southeast Christian was requesting their home group to park in three remote parking areas and shuttle over. I'm sure that leaving early for the event each day would be good advice :-)
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Be Strict With Me
No other gods is very convicting. It is changing my life and making me see things more clearly. So many times my focus is off and I am distracted by so much that my mind is not upon my Lord. I want so desperately to put him first and live my life for him, knowing He is all that matters and it's really all about him and reaching others for the kingdom of Heaven.
Be Strict With Me
By: Michelle Adams
Psalms 26:2 Examine me, O Lord; and prove me; try my reins and my heart.
Not too long ago I was listening to a teaching CD by Beth Moore and I heard her tell how she began in her early thirties asking God to be strict with her. The Lord spoke to my heart that I too needed to pray that prayer. I didn’t want to; the thought of asking Him to be strict with me was frightening. Needless to say I haven’t been praying for that.
Last night I picked up my Bible and read Psalms 24-28 and when I came to this verse I was convicted. The Lord reminded of the night He had told me to ask Him to be strict with me. Again I honestly don’t want to do that I know I should because that would be obedience but it scares me.
I within myself am the most undisciplined person I know. My house is a wreck of clutter and nothing is ever in the right place. Most of the time I can’t even find what I am looking for. I have never followed a schedule. I have never been a morning person and for a long time now God has dealt with me to get up early and spend time with Him before starting my day. I have yet to accomplish that.
This morning I overslept so I woke up in a bad mood. This is a regular occurrence at my house. I rush to get ready for work and I rush out the door. While I’m driving to work I am putting in my earrings and applying lipstick so I am distracted. Usually after I sit down at my desk and am still for a moment I feel conviction because I haven’t spoken to my Heavenly Father yet.
Today as I was getting ready the Lord said, “if only you would obey my voice I would cause you to have victory.” I knew what He meant. God kept telling me, “if you do it my way, pray what I tell you to pray, obey my voice; discipline yourself I will work out all the rest.” I thought Lord I come home in the evenings and I spend time with you, some days I don’t turn my TV on at all. I pray and I study your word from the time I get home until the time I go to bed. This was no excuse and no great accomplishment. In fact the Lord let me know the reason I do that is because I have starved myself all day. It’s time for balance, it’s time to take up my cross daily and not nightly.
I have come to the conclusion that it’s time to walk in obedience and have whole-hearted dedication. I need to make up my mind that I will do things His way and not my own. I can’t make up for my morning neglect in the evenings. Yes, this was hard to swallow and yes it will be difficult to get in the habit of getting up earlier and having that time in the morning but for me that’s what God is calling me to. I am humbled by this truth but it’s time to confront it and make the necessary changes.
Father please forgive me for my disobedience for trying to do things my own way. I’m asking you now to please be strict with me. Examine me, search me, and try my intentions, my motives and the very intent of my heart. I want to do things your way and allow you to teach me to walk uprightly before you. Help me to step out and pray as you lead even when I am afraid. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Be Strict With Me
By: Michelle Adams
Psalms 26:2 Examine me, O Lord; and prove me; try my reins and my heart.
Not too long ago I was listening to a teaching CD by Beth Moore and I heard her tell how she began in her early thirties asking God to be strict with her. The Lord spoke to my heart that I too needed to pray that prayer. I didn’t want to; the thought of asking Him to be strict with me was frightening. Needless to say I haven’t been praying for that.
Last night I picked up my Bible and read Psalms 24-28 and when I came to this verse I was convicted. The Lord reminded of the night He had told me to ask Him to be strict with me. Again I honestly don’t want to do that I know I should because that would be obedience but it scares me.
I within myself am the most undisciplined person I know. My house is a wreck of clutter and nothing is ever in the right place. Most of the time I can’t even find what I am looking for. I have never followed a schedule. I have never been a morning person and for a long time now God has dealt with me to get up early and spend time with Him before starting my day. I have yet to accomplish that.
This morning I overslept so I woke up in a bad mood. This is a regular occurrence at my house. I rush to get ready for work and I rush out the door. While I’m driving to work I am putting in my earrings and applying lipstick so I am distracted. Usually after I sit down at my desk and am still for a moment I feel conviction because I haven’t spoken to my Heavenly Father yet.
Today as I was getting ready the Lord said, “if only you would obey my voice I would cause you to have victory.” I knew what He meant. God kept telling me, “if you do it my way, pray what I tell you to pray, obey my voice; discipline yourself I will work out all the rest.” I thought Lord I come home in the evenings and I spend time with you, some days I don’t turn my TV on at all. I pray and I study your word from the time I get home until the time I go to bed. This was no excuse and no great accomplishment. In fact the Lord let me know the reason I do that is because I have starved myself all day. It’s time for balance, it’s time to take up my cross daily and not nightly.
I have come to the conclusion that it’s time to walk in obedience and have whole-hearted dedication. I need to make up my mind that I will do things His way and not my own. I can’t make up for my morning neglect in the evenings. Yes, this was hard to swallow and yes it will be difficult to get in the habit of getting up earlier and having that time in the morning but for me that’s what God is calling me to. I am humbled by this truth but it’s time to confront it and make the necessary changes.
Father please forgive me for my disobedience for trying to do things my own way. I’m asking you now to please be strict with me. Examine me, search me, and try my intentions, my motives and the very intent of my heart. I want to do things your way and allow you to teach me to walk uprightly before you. Help me to step out and pray as you lead even when I am afraid. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Friday, July 18, 2008
True Forgiveness
True Forgiveness
By: Michelle Adams
1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
I think we sometimes forget how much God loves us and how faithful He is to us. We all mess up and make mistakes but when we do we can confess our sins and be restored to right standing with God.
I would never condone sin and I don't believe in intentional, willful, repeated sin. That's not what I'm talking about here. We all have sinned the verses before and after this one tells us this is true.
What I think we often do is fall under guilt and condemnation. We find it impossible to forgive ourselves and we doubt that God will forgive us. This scripture tells us this is not true, if we confess He is faithful and just to forgive our sins.
I have made some big mistakes in my life and I have sinned against God. I have fallen under guilt and condemnation. I did not apply the scripture to the reality of my life. I kept thinking about what I had done wrong. I did not really believe God had forgiven me and cleansed me of unrighteousness. There are some sins I have confessed over and over and over again. Why is that necessary if I confessed and received forgiveness? That's the trouble we don't receive our forgiveness.
Here's what God has taught me, it's really very simple. I did some crazy things growing up, and I did not always obey or honor my parents. I am reminded of an incident in my childhood as I meditate on this scripture.
I was nine years old, my mother made me take a bath and get dressed on a Saturday afternoon because our pastor and his wife were coming for dinner. Across the road from our house was a pond the city had just filled in to build the new water plant. My parents told me repeatedly not to go over there I would sink in the mud.
My parents became occupied with their company and I was outside playing. I went across the road and walked a short distance then I begin to sink in the mud. I couldn't get out, I was stuck and I just kept sinking. I was in mud up to my waist when one of the kids I was playing with ran to get my dad.
Dad came running to rescue me and with him was my mother, the pastor and his wife. There was no getting out of this one. Daddy grabbed me by my arms and pulled me up out of the mud. I had done wrong, I had sinned by being disobedient but my dad loved me so much he came and got me.
This was a big deal at the time, my mother was hysterical standing there watching this. I remember feeling relieved when I saw my dad. I knew that despite what I had done daddy would help me. My parents already knew what I had done, they saw me sinking. They never justified my actions, but they forgave me and pulled me out of circumstances I brought on myself.
If my earthly parents love me that much, how much more does my Heavenly Father love me? Once my dad pulled me out of that mud, he took me back home but I couldn't enter the house with the mud still on me. I had to stop outside on the porch and take off my muddy clothes before going in. I was embarrassed and afraid of what they might do to me once I did enter. Isn't that how we think? God may have delivered me but I'm sure to suffer for this. You will reap what you sow there's no doubt about that. However, once you rid yourself of sin through confession to Christ you are cleansed of unrighteousness and restored to right standing with your Heavenly Father. You are free from the bondage of sin. Beloved when you confessed you took your muddy clothes off at the door of repentance you are now clean.
Believe God is faithful and just to forgive you. Believe that you are cleansed from all unrighteousness. You are now in right standing with your Heavenly Father. Don't allow the enemy to lie to you. God loves you and He doesn't want you to feel guilty for the rest of your life.
Do you think I find it necessary to apologize to my parents and seek their forgiveness all these years later? No, absolutely not. In fact I have only asked their forgiveness one time. The day it happened, I made things right. I confessed my disobedience, I apologized for the grief I had caused them and we moved forward....God has also moved forward. Whatever you have already confessed is already forgiven. Stand on that, know that is true and you simply keep running this race to the finish line.
Heavenly Father, I thank you that you are faithful and just to forgive me when I confess my sin. Thank you for cleansing me from all unrighteousness. Help me to keep this word fresh in my heart so that I won't become my own worst enemy living with haunting thoughts of past sins. Teach me to believe you and take you at your word for it is impossible for you to lie.
Top of Form
By: Michelle Adams
1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
I think we sometimes forget how much God loves us and how faithful He is to us. We all mess up and make mistakes but when we do we can confess our sins and be restored to right standing with God.
I would never condone sin and I don't believe in intentional, willful, repeated sin. That's not what I'm talking about here. We all have sinned the verses before and after this one tells us this is true.
What I think we often do is fall under guilt and condemnation. We find it impossible to forgive ourselves and we doubt that God will forgive us. This scripture tells us this is not true, if we confess He is faithful and just to forgive our sins.
I have made some big mistakes in my life and I have sinned against God. I have fallen under guilt and condemnation. I did not apply the scripture to the reality of my life. I kept thinking about what I had done wrong. I did not really believe God had forgiven me and cleansed me of unrighteousness. There are some sins I have confessed over and over and over again. Why is that necessary if I confessed and received forgiveness? That's the trouble we don't receive our forgiveness.
Here's what God has taught me, it's really very simple. I did some crazy things growing up, and I did not always obey or honor my parents. I am reminded of an incident in my childhood as I meditate on this scripture.
I was nine years old, my mother made me take a bath and get dressed on a Saturday afternoon because our pastor and his wife were coming for dinner. Across the road from our house was a pond the city had just filled in to build the new water plant. My parents told me repeatedly not to go over there I would sink in the mud.
My parents became occupied with their company and I was outside playing. I went across the road and walked a short distance then I begin to sink in the mud. I couldn't get out, I was stuck and I just kept sinking. I was in mud up to my waist when one of the kids I was playing with ran to get my dad.
Dad came running to rescue me and with him was my mother, the pastor and his wife. There was no getting out of this one. Daddy grabbed me by my arms and pulled me up out of the mud. I had done wrong, I had sinned by being disobedient but my dad loved me so much he came and got me.
This was a big deal at the time, my mother was hysterical standing there watching this. I remember feeling relieved when I saw my dad. I knew that despite what I had done daddy would help me. My parents already knew what I had done, they saw me sinking. They never justified my actions, but they forgave me and pulled me out of circumstances I brought on myself.
If my earthly parents love me that much, how much more does my Heavenly Father love me? Once my dad pulled me out of that mud, he took me back home but I couldn't enter the house with the mud still on me. I had to stop outside on the porch and take off my muddy clothes before going in. I was embarrassed and afraid of what they might do to me once I did enter. Isn't that how we think? God may have delivered me but I'm sure to suffer for this. You will reap what you sow there's no doubt about that. However, once you rid yourself of sin through confession to Christ you are cleansed of unrighteousness and restored to right standing with your Heavenly Father. You are free from the bondage of sin. Beloved when you confessed you took your muddy clothes off at the door of repentance you are now clean.
Believe God is faithful and just to forgive you. Believe that you are cleansed from all unrighteousness. You are now in right standing with your Heavenly Father. Don't allow the enemy to lie to you. God loves you and He doesn't want you to feel guilty for the rest of your life.
Do you think I find it necessary to apologize to my parents and seek their forgiveness all these years later? No, absolutely not. In fact I have only asked their forgiveness one time. The day it happened, I made things right. I confessed my disobedience, I apologized for the grief I had caused them and we moved forward....God has also moved forward. Whatever you have already confessed is already forgiven. Stand on that, know that is true and you simply keep running this race to the finish line.
Heavenly Father, I thank you that you are faithful and just to forgive me when I confess my sin. Thank you for cleansing me from all unrighteousness. Help me to keep this word fresh in my heart so that I won't become my own worst enemy living with haunting thoughts of past sins. Teach me to believe you and take you at your word for it is impossible for you to lie.
Top of Form
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
An interesting exercise
Hey Ladies!
I wanted to add one discussion point to Beth's wonderful questions. I found it really helpful last night while I was doing the last lesson in Session 4 to meditate on Colossians 3:1-17 and write down three things that really struck me. I thought it would be neat, in addition to Beth's question, if we could all share our three things. I am interested to see what particularly spoke to each of you in this passage.
I wanted to add one discussion point to Beth's wonderful questions. I found it really helpful last night while I was doing the last lesson in Session 4 to meditate on Colossians 3:1-17 and write down three things that really struck me. I thought it would be neat, in addition to Beth's question, if we could all share our three things. I am interested to see what particularly spoke to each of you in this passage.
Prayer Request
Hi everyone!
First, I wanted to let you know that Mary Burnett went to be with Jesus last week. Katie had posted July 5th asking us to pray for Mary and her family who are friends of Katie's parents. The Courier Journal and WAVE news had covered a graduation ceremony for Mary's daughters held at the hospital (they will graduate officially next year).
Please pray for Mary's husband Doug, and her daughters, Ashley and Brittany during this time of loss. Rejoice for Mary - she finished before us and therefore "got there first"!
On another minuscule note, I need prayer regarding my gastrointestinal system. I'm not going to go into yucky detail, but I have had problems since I had my gallbladder removed January, 2007. I am going to make a doctor's appointment today to see my internist. This problem is not life threatening by no means, just annoying.
Praying for you all! If you have specific prayer requests, either put them on the blog or email if you wish.
God Bless!
Cheri
First, I wanted to let you know that Mary Burnett went to be with Jesus last week. Katie had posted July 5th asking us to pray for Mary and her family who are friends of Katie's parents. The Courier Journal and WAVE news had covered a graduation ceremony for Mary's daughters held at the hospital (they will graduate officially next year).
Please pray for Mary's husband Doug, and her daughters, Ashley and Brittany during this time of loss. Rejoice for Mary - she finished before us and therefore "got there first"!
On another minuscule note, I need prayer regarding my gastrointestinal system. I'm not going to go into yucky detail, but I have had problems since I had my gallbladder removed January, 2007. I am going to make a doctor's appointment today to see my internist. This problem is not life threatening by no means, just annoying.
Praying for you all! If you have specific prayer requests, either put them on the blog or email if you wish.
God Bless!
Cheri
Beth's Message # 3: True, but not the Truth
Beth has posted our discussion questions for sessions three and four.
(I guess the wellness tip this week was "quit giving mixed messages to your hair, you hair-etic!" :-)
I also decided to post the questions in the opposite order, so that the first appears newest on the blog page and the last is oldest. I hope that this is better in terms of chronological order.
NOG - p. 62
"Satan will tell us what's true, but he never tells us the truth!"
Has Satan ever told you something true, but it wasn't the truth?
(I guess the wellness tip this week was "quit giving mixed messages to your hair, you hair-etic!" :-)
I also decided to post the questions in the opposite order, so that the first appears newest on the blog page and the last is oldest. I hope that this is better in terms of chronological order.
NOG - p. 62
"Satan will tell us what's true, but he never tells us the truth!"
Has Satan ever told you something true, but it wasn't the truth?
Beth's Message # 3: Holding On to the Edge of the Envelope
NOG - p. 66.
King Hezekiah and the attack on his faith.
Streams in the Desert - p. 168.
“Genuine faith puts its letter in the mailbox and lets go. Distrust, however, holds on to a corner of the envelope and then wonders why the answer never arrives.”
What envelope have you been most prone to hold the edge of?
King Hezekiah and the attack on his faith.
Streams in the Desert - p. 168.
“Genuine faith puts its letter in the mailbox and lets go. Distrust, however, holds on to a corner of the envelope and then wonders why the answer never arrives.”
What envelope have you been most prone to hold the edge of?
Beth's Message # 3: People - Gods
NOG - p. 76.
"Because relationships are so necessary - as I believe God created them to be - the line can get awful fuzzy between codependent and healthy, deep friendships."
Philippians 1:9-10
"And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ" (NKJV)
How can these two Scriptures become a huge help to us in finding the balance between loving people and idolizing them?
Beth writes:
"We shared some examples from our personal lives of idolatrous relationships that, with God’s intervention, actually transitioned into healthy relationships. These transitions are often rare because the relationship was fed by the idolatry and often can’t exist without it."
Have any of you experienced one of those wonderful occasions when a relationship endured that positive transition? If so, share it!
"Because relationships are so necessary - as I believe God created them to be - the line can get awful fuzzy between codependent and healthy, deep friendships."
Philippians 1:9-10
"And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ" (NKJV)
How can these two Scriptures become a huge help to us in finding the balance between loving people and idolizing them?
Beth writes:
"We shared some examples from our personal lives of idolatrous relationships that, with God’s intervention, actually transitioned into healthy relationships. These transitions are often rare because the relationship was fed by the idolatry and often can’t exist without it."
Have any of you experienced one of those wonderful occasions when a relationship endured that positive transition? If so, share it!
Beth's Message # 3: Leah and Rachel Madness
NOG - pg. 87.
"Ponder Leah's desperation and write how this translates in your own life. (For example, when have you - or are you now - acting out of this kind of desperation?)"
What are a few costs of desperation that you yourself have paid? And what is the solution?
"Ponder Leah's desperation and write how this translates in your own life. (For example, when have you - or are you now - acting out of this kind of desperation?)"
What are a few costs of desperation that you yourself have paid? And what is the solution?
Beth's Message # 3: True, but not the Truth
Beth has posted our discussion questions for sessions three and four.
(I guess the theme this week was "Quit giving mixed messages to your hair, you hair-etic!" :-)
NOG - p. 62.
"Satan will tell us what's true, but he never tells us the truth."
Has Satan ever told you something true, but it wasn't the truth?
(I guess the theme this week was "Quit giving mixed messages to your hair, you hair-etic!" :-)
NOG - p. 62.
"Satan will tell us what's true, but he never tells us the truth."
Has Satan ever told you something true, but it wasn't the truth?
Sunday, July 13, 2008
A visual picture...
I just finished up my chronological reading for the week and ran across this little bit of scripture. I got a chuckle out of it and thought that it presented a wonderful visual of the icky-ness of idols.
O people of Zion, who live in Jerusalem, you will weep no more. How gracious he will be when you cry for help! As soon as he hears, he will answer you. Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will see them. Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it." Then you will defile your idols overlaid with silver and your images covered with gold; you will throw them away like a menstrual cloth and say to them, "Away with you!" Isaiah 30:19-22
May we throw our idols away...
O people of Zion, who live in Jerusalem, you will weep no more. How gracious he will be when you cry for help! As soon as he hears, he will answer you. Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will see them. Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it." Then you will defile your idols overlaid with silver and your images covered with gold; you will throw them away like a menstrual cloth and say to them, "Away with you!" Isaiah 30:19-22
May we throw our idols away...
LIES, LIES, and MORE LIES
How are all my KY. Siestas? Thanks Karen for giving us a wakeup call.
Besides KY. SIESTAS I also participate in a forum called Siestas for Him that was created for this online Bible Study. Since we did not have any homework discussion from Beth last week , our facilitator Sheryl posted discussion questions for week 3.
I am sorry that I didn't post them here earlier but we still have 2 days before Beth's questions come so I'll post some of my thoughts and if you want to answer with your thoughts we would all love it.
From p. 60 Personal Reflection: Eve was deceived. How does her experience parallel our vulnerablity to being decieved today? Keep in mind a deception can be true BUT it is never THE TRUTH.
TV shows and movies rarely show consequences of actions(ex. promiscuity rarely results in sexually transmitted infections or pregnancy). We begin to believe thin people with perfect skin, teeth, and hair are the "norm". We start to believe that "things" (IDOLS) can solve our problems.
From p. 69 Personal Reflection: Paul tells us to continue in what we've been convinced of in the scriptures. Do you routinely read, listen to , or watch programs, movies, magazines, or music
with messages that attempt to convince you otherwise?
All the music I listen to is Christian so when a song pops into my head it is always uplifting BUT, I read books by authors that are not "Wholesome" such as Stephen King, James Patterson , and John Sanford and I like to watch" the Young and the Restless" . I have been a fan since it first debuted in the 70s.
Kelly says on p. 69 that if we are routinely putting ourselves in front of things that compromise the good the Lord wants to accomplish in us, then we are allowing ourselves to be robbed.
On p. 73 Kelly says that we need to know GOD'S TRUTH so that we can identify the deceptions of the enemy.
I'll leave you with the prayer I wrote as a response to the request on p. 76.
Dear Lord,
I love you and know that you love me. Forgive me when I believe Satan's lies. I want to be a light. I want to draw people to you. Help me to have a GODLY attitude. AMEN
KEEP BELIEVING GOD LADIES!!!! Blessings, LINDA
Besides KY. SIESTAS I also participate in a forum called Siestas for Him that was created for this online Bible Study. Since we did not have any homework discussion from Beth last week , our facilitator Sheryl posted discussion questions for week 3.
I am sorry that I didn't post them here earlier but we still have 2 days before Beth's questions come so I'll post some of my thoughts and if you want to answer with your thoughts we would all love it.
From p. 60 Personal Reflection: Eve was deceived. How does her experience parallel our vulnerablity to being decieved today? Keep in mind a deception can be true BUT it is never THE TRUTH.
TV shows and movies rarely show consequences of actions(ex. promiscuity rarely results in sexually transmitted infections or pregnancy). We begin to believe thin people with perfect skin, teeth, and hair are the "norm". We start to believe that "things" (IDOLS) can solve our problems.
From p. 69 Personal Reflection: Paul tells us to continue in what we've been convinced of in the scriptures. Do you routinely read, listen to , or watch programs, movies, magazines, or music
with messages that attempt to convince you otherwise?
All the music I listen to is Christian so when a song pops into my head it is always uplifting BUT, I read books by authors that are not "Wholesome" such as Stephen King, James Patterson , and John Sanford and I like to watch" the Young and the Restless" . I have been a fan since it first debuted in the 70s.
Kelly says on p. 69 that if we are routinely putting ourselves in front of things that compromise the good the Lord wants to accomplish in us, then we are allowing ourselves to be robbed.
On p. 73 Kelly says that we need to know GOD'S TRUTH so that we can identify the deceptions of the enemy.
I'll leave you with the prayer I wrote as a response to the request on p. 76.
Dear Lord,
I love you and know that you love me. Forgive me when I believe Satan's lies. I want to be a light. I want to draw people to you. Help me to have a GODLY attitude. AMEN
KEEP BELIEVING GOD LADIES!!!! Blessings, LINDA
Um...hello? (tap, tap, tap) Is anybody out there? It's been awfully quiet lately. Did everybody go home and forget to tell me?
I have a question. Am I the only one who is discovering that I have more idols than I do pockets? I thought I could discover THE ONE and eradicate it but apparently it's not that simple. Every time I turn the corner, I seem to be finding something else that nudges God out of His proper place.
Interestingly enough, our pastor started a sermon series on idols today (based on Joshua 24). Sigh. If you wait until Monday, you can probably hear it here. (If this doesn't take you to the right sermon, keep poking around. It's there somewhere. It hadn't been posted yet.) Anyhow, they started the service with the statement,
You must not have any other god but me. You must not make for yourself an idol of any kind or an image of anything in the heavens or on the earth or in the sea. You must not bow down to them or worship them, for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God who will not tolerate your affection for any other gods."
Kyle made a statement about God being a jealous God that really caught my attention and put things into perspective for me. He said, "It would be like you telling your husband that you've decided to see other people, but he's still your favorite." For some reason, that painted a picture for me like I've never seen before. He also talked about how so many times we focus on the fruit (sin) rather than removing the tree (idolatry). His belief is that all sin has it's root in idolatry. And I think I agree with him. Henry Blackaby gives this definition of idolatry: Anything you turn to for help when God tells you to turn to Him. Kyle went on to list things that help us identify the idols in our lives (what is your nightmare?, whose applause do you long for?, what do you dream of?) and how we can stop worshipping these idols (Appreciate what God has done. The more we remember what He has done for us, the more we appreciate Him, Recognize who He is, and smash all other gods.)
The sermon is well worth listening to if you get a chance. They don't put them up until Monday though. Anyway, I really would be curious to know how things are going for all of you. Are you like me and finding that you are more "caught" then you thought you were? What speaks most to you? How did you feel about her thoughts on media feeding our souls?
I have a question. Am I the only one who is discovering that I have more idols than I do pockets? I thought I could discover THE ONE and eradicate it but apparently it's not that simple. Every time I turn the corner, I seem to be finding something else that nudges God out of His proper place.
Interestingly enough, our pastor started a sermon series on idols today (based on Joshua 24). Sigh. If you wait until Monday, you can probably hear it here. (If this doesn't take you to the right sermon, keep poking around. It's there somewhere. It hadn't been posted yet.) Anyhow, they started the service with the statement,
You must not have any other god but me. You must not make for yourself an idol of any kind or an image of anything in the heavens or on the earth or in the sea. You must not bow down to them or worship them, for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God who will not tolerate your affection for any other gods."
Kyle made a statement about God being a jealous God that really caught my attention and put things into perspective for me. He said, "It would be like you telling your husband that you've decided to see other people, but he's still your favorite." For some reason, that painted a picture for me like I've never seen before. He also talked about how so many times we focus on the fruit (sin) rather than removing the tree (idolatry). His belief is that all sin has it's root in idolatry. And I think I agree with him. Henry Blackaby gives this definition of idolatry: Anything you turn to for help when God tells you to turn to Him. Kyle went on to list things that help us identify the idols in our lives (what is your nightmare?, whose applause do you long for?, what do you dream of?) and how we can stop worshipping these idols (Appreciate what God has done. The more we remember what He has done for us, the more we appreciate Him, Recognize who He is, and smash all other gods.)
The sermon is well worth listening to if you get a chance. They don't put them up until Monday though. Anyway, I really would be curious to know how things are going for all of you. Are you like me and finding that you are more "caught" then you thought you were? What speaks most to you? How did you feel about her thoughts on media feeding our souls?
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Hello new siestas!
I too am new at this blogging thing. You've got your work cut out for you. But I am so glad to be here studying with you ladies. pray that I will have an open heart and willing spirit as I see idols in my life that I really didn't think as one.Life's too short to be letting the enemy throw idols in our life's path. I love you girls for allowing me into your study circle. breaking free, Carla
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Please Pray...
My parents have some friends from high school that need your prayers. The wife and mother, Mary, is dying of breast cancer. You may have seen the article about her girls "graduating" from high school on the front page of the Louisville newspaper on Friday. Please pray for this dear family that has been so faithful in their trust of our Father through so many difficulties. Rejoice that Mary will soon get to be with Jesus and that her husband and daughters will be comforted. Thanks ladies.
Hi from Linda in Lexington
Well I finally found my way in! This is so new to me - so please be patient with me as I learn how to do this blog thingy! I am called by several names, Linda Spraggins, Scooter, Mom and Mimi! You can just call me whatever you like best! :) I live in Lexington. Have two children, three grandchildren and a new grand-daughter on the way (will arrive in November).
I will try to keep this introduction short and if anyone would like to know more just e-mail me.
Our son, Pike is the SWAT team coordinator for Lexington Police department. He is married to Alisa, their son is Dawson, he is 9 years old. He is precious! God has gifted him with a compassionate heart and loving spirit. He goes to LCA (Lex Christian Academy) They are expecting our new little grand daughter in November. A very exciting time for them - as they thought they weren't having any more additions to the family! Alisa, is precious and a true blessing from God. She is a stay at home mom. She was an emergency room RN before Dawson was born and a very good one. She and Pike can handle the adrenalin rush that comes with their professions with control and clear thinking! Truly a gift from God. I know He gives these special servants of our care special gifts and incentive to do their job.
Our Daughter, Paige is a stay at home mom also. Joe is her husband. Cramer and Ally Jo are their children. They live in Scott County. Cramer is 13 now - he is our oldest grandchild. Ally Jo is 11. They are also precious! Cramer was born with retinoblastoma that was discovered in his eyes at 7 months old. The Lord was in control of the situation from the start for us! When the news came down we immediately went to Him and thanked Him for this dire circumstance and put Cramer and the whole family and entire medical team that would treat him in Gods more than capable hands.. That evening we were on a flight to Philadelphia to see Drs. Shields and Shields at the Wills Eye Hospital. They are known as leaders in the field of treatment of retinoblastoma. After almost two years of treatment Cramer's eyes had to be removed. The story is long, if anyone wants to know more I will gladly relate it to you. God has so blessed Cramer ( I wish you could meet him). Cramer sees God in a way that I will only see when I get to heaven. He has been an inspiration to many. There were gallons of tears and much heartache during this time. God was so faithful to be right there to pick us up and let us know He was in charge of Cramer and He had a greater glory to come out of this and would take care of "our special blessing". He gave us His Word that comforted us, encouraged us and gave us true hope! I praise Him for everything He is and Does for His children!! Oh - how I love him!
Ally Jo is a true blessing also! She loves to play softball and is going to the UK softball camp next week. She and Cramer also show cattle (Semital) - and that is a long story also. I never in my wildest imagination would have thought my city reared girly girl would someday be enjoying shoveling cow poop out of show stalls!!!!!!!!!!!!
Well now that I have managed to write an epistle I really should close and go get caught up on my homework as I am almost a week behind! Got a little behind taking care of elderly parents and having too much fun with the GRANS!!!! But I shouldn't leave out Gary, My dear Hubby!! He was with IBM/LexMark for 30 years and retired. He loves to fish. We spend part of the winter and spring in Florida (SW) where he fishes the barrier island waters. I miss the grans and spend time setting on the beach and visiting with our Florida friends.
We have one little beagle, Sara that is so much fun for us and the grans.
I have never met you guys, but I know I love you - because you love my Jesus!
Looking forward to learning from you guys! God bless you and all that concerns you and yours! Linda
I will try to keep this introduction short and if anyone would like to know more just e-mail me.
Our son, Pike is the SWAT team coordinator for Lexington Police department. He is married to Alisa, their son is Dawson, he is 9 years old. He is precious! God has gifted him with a compassionate heart and loving spirit. He goes to LCA (Lex Christian Academy) They are expecting our new little grand daughter in November. A very exciting time for them - as they thought they weren't having any more additions to the family! Alisa, is precious and a true blessing from God. She is a stay at home mom. She was an emergency room RN before Dawson was born and a very good one. She and Pike can handle the adrenalin rush that comes with their professions with control and clear thinking! Truly a gift from God. I know He gives these special servants of our care special gifts and incentive to do their job.
Our Daughter, Paige is a stay at home mom also. Joe is her husband. Cramer and Ally Jo are their children. They live in Scott County. Cramer is 13 now - he is our oldest grandchild. Ally Jo is 11. They are also precious! Cramer was born with retinoblastoma that was discovered in his eyes at 7 months old. The Lord was in control of the situation from the start for us! When the news came down we immediately went to Him and thanked Him for this dire circumstance and put Cramer and the whole family and entire medical team that would treat him in Gods more than capable hands.. That evening we were on a flight to Philadelphia to see Drs. Shields and Shields at the Wills Eye Hospital. They are known as leaders in the field of treatment of retinoblastoma. After almost two years of treatment Cramer's eyes had to be removed. The story is long, if anyone wants to know more I will gladly relate it to you. God has so blessed Cramer ( I wish you could meet him). Cramer sees God in a way that I will only see when I get to heaven. He has been an inspiration to many. There were gallons of tears and much heartache during this time. God was so faithful to be right there to pick us up and let us know He was in charge of Cramer and He had a greater glory to come out of this and would take care of "our special blessing". He gave us His Word that comforted us, encouraged us and gave us true hope! I praise Him for everything He is and Does for His children!! Oh - how I love him!
Ally Jo is a true blessing also! She loves to play softball and is going to the UK softball camp next week. She and Cramer also show cattle (Semital) - and that is a long story also. I never in my wildest imagination would have thought my city reared girly girl would someday be enjoying shoveling cow poop out of show stalls!!!!!!!!!!!!
Well now that I have managed to write an epistle I really should close and go get caught up on my homework as I am almost a week behind! Got a little behind taking care of elderly parents and having too much fun with the GRANS!!!! But I shouldn't leave out Gary, My dear Hubby!! He was with IBM/LexMark for 30 years and retired. He loves to fish. We spend part of the winter and spring in Florida (SW) where he fishes the barrier island waters. I miss the grans and spend time setting on the beach and visiting with our Florida friends.
We have one little beagle, Sara that is so much fun for us and the grans.
I have never met you guys, but I know I love you - because you love my Jesus!
Looking forward to learning from you guys! God bless you and all that concerns you and yours! Linda
Functional Gods: Eating Disorders and Seeking Approval of Others
Many of us have posted that our functional god is overeating and seeking approval of others.
I'm right there with you gals.
I have fought eating disorders since I was 14. It started with anorexia nervosa. I wanted to look like Audrey Hepburn (I kid you not) or a teen model from those preteen magazines that were well read. So, I limited my daily calorie allotment to 900 calories per day, exercised religiously, awoke early, went to bed exactly 16 hours later (I didn't want to lose a few calories by sleeping), and watched the pounds melt away. I still thought I looked fat when I weighed 87 pounds! I was a perfectionist also...I had to make A's or I would die!
Eventually, my monthly periods had ceased and I was dizzy when I arose from a sitting position. There wasn't a lot of information in the lay publications regarding anorexia nervosa in the early 70's, but my nurse mom took me to a gynecologist to see what was wrong with me (I was also very depressed). He gave me a hormone injection to jump start my periods and told me "quit over achieving!"
Well, thank God, I stopped depriving myself of food and my eating disorder was gone! Or, so I thought. Because I was so skinny, my mom kept ice milk (I would only eat Light and Lively) and other sweets around....Oh Boy! I could eat what I wanted! Yippee!
Then entered anorexia's hidden brother....bulimia.
I must say that I have struggled with overeating and bulimia off and on since then. It strikes me when I am stressed, lonely or depressed. Of course, it's a vicious circle...I overeat because I am depressed, I gain weight or fear gaining, I feel a lack of control when I overeat, then bulimia enters the picture which leads to continuing lack of control and more depression. And Satan is having a hey day because he is keeping me defeated!
Another functional god I have struggled with is seeking approval of others (people-pleasing)! I discovered that part of the reason my eating disorders developed was from wanting to please my parents by being the "good" child (my brother was a hellion in his teenage years). I stayed away from drugs and alcohol, unhealthy friendships, partying, etc. I kept quiet, became the valedictorian of my class and sunk into depression and eating disorders.
This people-pleasing trait has eased somewhat as I have aged. Matter in fact, a big weight lifted off of me in the past ten years when I realized that I couldn't please others all of the time. When I find myself worrying too much about what others think, God gently reminds me that only His approval counts.
Sorry I turned this post into a short story, but I want to relate to my fellow siestas that I am right there with you in your struggles! I am praying that our desire would be to please God only, and that we would cut ourselves a break from perfectionism. Also, that we would do all things to His glory whether eating or drinking (I Corinthians 10:31).
Remember our memory verse.....Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling.....
God bless!
Cheri
I'm right there with you gals.
I have fought eating disorders since I was 14. It started with anorexia nervosa. I wanted to look like Audrey Hepburn (I kid you not) or a teen model from those preteen magazines that were well read. So, I limited my daily calorie allotment to 900 calories per day, exercised religiously, awoke early, went to bed exactly 16 hours later (I didn't want to lose a few calories by sleeping), and watched the pounds melt away. I still thought I looked fat when I weighed 87 pounds! I was a perfectionist also...I had to make A's or I would die!
Eventually, my monthly periods had ceased and I was dizzy when I arose from a sitting position. There wasn't a lot of information in the lay publications regarding anorexia nervosa in the early 70's, but my nurse mom took me to a gynecologist to see what was wrong with me (I was also very depressed). He gave me a hormone injection to jump start my periods and told me "quit over achieving!"
Well, thank God, I stopped depriving myself of food and my eating disorder was gone! Or, so I thought. Because I was so skinny, my mom kept ice milk (I would only eat Light and Lively) and other sweets around....Oh Boy! I could eat what I wanted! Yippee!
Then entered anorexia's hidden brother....bulimia.
I must say that I have struggled with overeating and bulimia off and on since then. It strikes me when I am stressed, lonely or depressed. Of course, it's a vicious circle...I overeat because I am depressed, I gain weight or fear gaining, I feel a lack of control when I overeat, then bulimia enters the picture which leads to continuing lack of control and more depression. And Satan is having a hey day because he is keeping me defeated!
Another functional god I have struggled with is seeking approval of others (people-pleasing)! I discovered that part of the reason my eating disorders developed was from wanting to please my parents by being the "good" child (my brother was a hellion in his teenage years). I stayed away from drugs and alcohol, unhealthy friendships, partying, etc. I kept quiet, became the valedictorian of my class and sunk into depression and eating disorders.
This people-pleasing trait has eased somewhat as I have aged. Matter in fact, a big weight lifted off of me in the past ten years when I realized that I couldn't please others all of the time. When I find myself worrying too much about what others think, God gently reminds me that only His approval counts.
Sorry I turned this post into a short story, but I want to relate to my fellow siestas that I am right there with you in your struggles! I am praying that our desire would be to please God only, and that we would cut ourselves a break from perfectionism. Also, that we would do all things to His glory whether eating or drinking (I Corinthians 10:31).
Remember our memory verse.....Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling.....
God bless!
Cheri
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Thirst
I am rarely without one of these three drinks: unsweetened iced tea (only brewed without lemon and LOTS of ice), Diet Coke, or water. I have a water bottle with me in the choir, I purchase a Speedway 44 0z. Diet Coke at least once a day, and I always have something to drink on my nightstand when I go to bed. Why is this? I don't want to be thirsty. I don't want to feel parched.
I just finished the intro. and Day 1 of Session 3: LIES, and the thirst metaphor really connected with me.
On p. 56 Kelly says that we all need a refuge, a sanctuary but only one source of satisfaction and refuge exists. That source is GOD.
Lord, Help me to "drown" myself in Your living water so I will never thirst again. Thank you for my fellow Siestas on this journey with me. We boldly claim your promise that YOU ALONE are sufficient to meet our every need. We love you Jesus. AMEN
I just finished the intro. and Day 1 of Session 3: LIES, and the thirst metaphor really connected with me.
On p. 56 Kelly says that we all need a refuge, a sanctuary but only one source of satisfaction and refuge exists. That source is GOD.
Lord, Help me to "drown" myself in Your living water so I will never thirst again. Thank you for my fellow Siestas on this journey with me. We boldly claim your promise that YOU ALONE are sufficient to meet our every need. We love you Jesus. AMEN
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