tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21624010345380944582024-02-08T09:54:41.627-05:00Shelly Says ChroniclesShellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15415496284459946323noreply@blogger.comBlogger64125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162401034538094458.post-90221666866650985302010-12-19T10:24:00.004-05:002010-12-19T10:28:15.329-05:00I have a new bloggy home!<span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><a href="http://shellyscantrell.com/">shellyscantrell.com</a><br /><br /></span><br />The official launch for this site is scheduled for<br />January 3, 2011!<br /><br />I hope you'll come by and visit soon!<br /><br /></span><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/121/9C1033F87F958043B3CEFA5EB5283801.png" style="border: 0pt none ! important; background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent;" /></a>Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15415496284459946323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162401034538094458.post-89195188983332597252010-07-06T08:11:00.014-04:002010-08-10T09:24:06.126-04:00Shelly Says ~ "Ignite the Passion"<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Lately, God has been stirring in my heart. I was troubled by this at first.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Side Note: You may already know that I'm a photographer and that God has allowed me to take pictures for many, many years. He has even blessed me with a photography business that is solely based on word of mouth. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Earlier this year, I felt like God was saying that my photography would be changing. At first, I panicked. I thought God was saying, "No more photography. I'm doin' a new thang!" I became angry. I love taking pictures. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">By the way, I have since confessed and repented of this anger.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Here's the deal though. Since then, I have come to understand that God might be changing my photography simply as I know it. : ) </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I believe that He is leading me into "Spiritual Photography."</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">While Spiritual Photography (I'm not even sure if that's a proper noun) is a very new concept for me, I understand that it's simply taking pictures of things that are spiritual.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This concept was shared with me by a new friend of mine. She said that she took a Spiritual Photography class. Interesting. A little nudge occurred as soon as she said the words.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Now, I feel like that could be how my photography is changing . . . from taking pictures of people back to my first love ~ nature ~ God's canvas!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">If you're one of my photography clients, please don't panic. : ) This is not a done deal . . . just where I feel God is leading me. I wanted to share this with you today because it's such fresh, exciting news.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Just this morning, I got another nudge to get into Spiritual Photography. That's why it's on the brain. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">If you're interested in viewing my work, you can visit my </span><b><a href="http://photographybygrace.net/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">current portfolio</span></a></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> by clicking the bold words.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I will keep you posted on the "nudgings." </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Is God igniting a new passion in you? Is He rekindling an old one? </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: large; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: large; ">Spend some time in prayer today asking God to reveal how He wants to work in your life.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Tune in to that still, small voice that is nudging you towards God's will for your life.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><div class="result-text-style-normal" style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; "><p></p><div style="text-align: center;"> <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">See, I am doing a new thing! </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> I am making a way in the desert </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> and streams in the wasteland.</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-style: normal; font-family:Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><h2 id="passage_heading" style="text-align: center; display: inline !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Isaiah 43:19 (NIV)</span></span></h2></span></i></div><p></p></div></span></span></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/121/9C1033F87F958043B3CEFA5EB5283801.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">p.s. Is it any coincidence that my "people photography" business is sooooo slow right now? This is not of my own choosing, mind you. As I mentioned earlier, my business is strictly word of mouth (no advertising). I think "God is doin' a new thang!" (anybody remember the 80's DC Talk song?!?!) ; ) </span></span></div>Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15415496284459946323noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162401034538094458.post-46600942963020665642010-06-25T07:00:00.006-04:002010-06-25T08:17:14.821-04:00Part 6 ~ Chapter 47 ~ The Final Link<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Okay, I'm in tears again today. I know part of it is that our sweet journey is ending. Another part is that God is just so good!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Some of you know that for the past 20 months I've been sick on and off again with recurrent ear/sinus infections. During the past 19 months, my husband has been without a full-time job and we've struggled financially.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Well, near the beginning of these struggles, I heard a song that gave me hope and has served as a reminder through these trials.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">It's no secret that the Lord speaks to me in songs and that music is a very important part of my life. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Today as I read <b><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=is%2040:28-31&version=NIV">Isaiah 40:28-31</a></b>, the song </span></span><b><a href="http://www.anychristianlyrics.com/index.php?cmd=6&recid=53"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Everlasting God by Lincoln Brewster</span></span></a></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> immediately came to mind. When I hear this song, I am always reminded to wait on God and His provisions. His timing is not my timing, and His ways are not my ways. What really gets me, though, is that "<i>strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord</i>."</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So, there is purpose in our waiting. ; ) There is hope in the storm! Strength is rising!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I have been in a waiting period here lately. I can feel that God is preparing me for something, but it's not quite time for a lot of action. In fact, He's been telling me to "be still and know that {He}</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: large; "> is God" (Psalm 46:10 {emphasis mine}). There are preparations and stillness but very little action, especially when you're sick all the time. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This is a wonderful reminder today (as I was getting a little frustrated in the waiting over the last couple of weeks) that I need to be still and wait upon the Lord. He is the source of my strength, and if I look to Him for my strength... I will not faint or grow weary, but I will soar on wings like eagles!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Something very refreshing in this chapter, for me, is the nugget of knowledge <b><a href="http://www.lproof.org/aboutus/bethmoore/default.htm">Beth</a></b> shares on page 273. She says, "The Hebrew word for 'hope' (KJV, 'wait upon') is qawah, meaning 'to bind together (by twisting)... to be gathered together, be joined.' " </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Wow! To wait upon the Lord is to have hope in Him and draw close to Him. While I'm not perfect, mind you, that's exactly what I've been trying to do these last 20 months. Believe me when I say, there have been plenty of times where I've started to lose hope and have been grasping at straws to find hope... but I have always turned back to God. I have confessed my times of unbelief and renewed my relationship with Him. I have asked for patience and then gone back to being still and waiting; drawing close to Him as He draws close to me.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I believe God clipped my little independent wings about 20 months ago. I had plans and wanted to do all kinds of things with my photography career. I believe God knew well enough to know that I would go after those dreams with all my soul and totally ignore His plans for me. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I believe that He has a plan, a hope, a future for me and that it is far greater than anything I have ever hoped or imagined. If I had the last 20 months my way, I probably wouldn't even be writing this post. I certainly would not have gone on this journey with you. And, I'd still be in bondage. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I believe, just as He clipped my wings to slow me down and pay attention to Him, He will allow me to soar on wings like eagles when He's ready to ween me out of the little nest He's kept me in for 20 months. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I could go on and on about what this study has meant to me, but I will try to encapsulate my journey in a few sentences. I'd love to hear from you, too, about what this journey has meant in your life.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">When I first discovered this book, I knew that God wanted me to study the contents, but I had no idea that He wanted me share the journey with you. I had fully prepared myself to do the study alone, in private, because I was afraid of the "baggage" that would surface. Then, I felt like God was asking me to do the study online... on the blog. I wondered why I got the nudge to start a blog : ) just a month earlier. On April 17th, it was official. I would offer the study online. Without going over all the details (because you've already read them once), I never imagined that I was still enslaved to things from my past! The unplugged part of our journey was definitely the breakthrough for me, but I am continuing to uncover strongholds. Plus, I gleaned so much from the chapters afterwards. When I had such revelations over the unplugged week, I thought that would be my highlight... BUT GOD just kept surprising me over and over as we continued the journey!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In a nutshell, I believe this study has opened my eyes to see that there were quite a few major strongholds in my life. I now have the tools and the knowledge I need to be set free!!! The knowledge has been there all along, but I finally Stop, Dropped and <i>Payed</i> attention so God could reveal these things to me. Since our week unplugged, I have been able to experience loose shackles in so many areas of my life!!! GOD IS GOOD!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I hope the trend continues. After a life in captivity, I'm ready for the good life... the one that is only found in God! I've tasted freedom and it is OH SO SWEET!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I pray that you are living in liberty as well! I will continue to pray for you, for the ones that are following close behind us and are almost at the end of their journey, and for the ones who will come after us and study the message of Breaking Free on their own or with their own group. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I can't wait to display His presence in my life and reflect the glory of the Lord!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I am thankful for your words of encouragement and open heart! Don't forget:</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://shellysc.blogspot.com/2010/05/shelly-says-stop-drop-and-pray.html">Stop, Drop and Pray</a></b>. If you allow it, the Lord has a life of liberty coming your way!</span></span></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/121/9C1033F87F958043B3CEFA5EB5283801.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15415496284459946323noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162401034538094458.post-7283014761193591552010-06-24T09:06:00.002-04:002010-06-24T09:55:18.067-04:00Part 6 ~ Chapter 46<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">I had a few technical problems with the blog this morning, but it seems like everything is working fine now. I'm sorry that I'm late posting </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">(for those of you who like reading before 8am).</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">I was brought to tears by the story </span><b><a href="http://www.lproof.org/aboutus/bethmoore/default.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Beth</span></a></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"> shares on page 267 in which she spontaneously ministered to a group of women in India. I think what touched me most was that Beth met those women right where they were; in a very physical sense, yes, but also in a very spiritual sense. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">It's amazing, to me, that emptiness and oppression would be the common thread that wove the women of India and Beth Moore together for such a Divine Time as she described in the pages of our study.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">God truly is amazing and will use our weaknesses to show off His strength!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">This entire chapter is yet another that I will hold onto and come back to often. To speak of all the murmurings and messages I received from the Holy Spirit this morning would be to take up a lot of your time, but here are some highlights I'd like to share:</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">~ I can think of many empty places in my life that have become the enemy's playground; places in which I've allowed the enemy to have a stronghold in my soul (mind, will and emotions). I encourage you to allow God to search you and know your heart... even your anxious thoughts and your worries. Take every thought captive to Christ and mold your thoughts to His. Strive to become like Christ in every way and every aspect of your life. He will make your paths straight.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">~ Walk in obedience to His will. If you don't know how, ask Him for help and then lean on some God-fearing sisters who will hold you accountable to walking in obedience. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">~ "If we pour out our lives to satisfy the needs of the oppressed, God will be faithful to satisfy our needs" (page 266, Beth Moore). While it took me a a long time to grasp this concept, I believe it. I have seen it. I have felt it. God will bless those who are empty of themselves and filled with His Spirit; then, turn around to praise Him by pouring that blessing out on others! We are<i> all</i> called to minister, and we'd be blessed to minister to others out of the overflow God has provided to us.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">~ What happens when we abide in Him? We experience the peace that passes all understanding. Hallelujah! I don't get 1/2 of what goes on here on Earth, but praise God... He blankets me with a peace and a tranquil soul when I trust in Him and abide in His Word. Sleep (rest and peace) is so sweet when we are tucked in by the Creator and Provider of the Universe and all in which it contains.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">I really could go on and on... this chapter is such a wellspring of thirst-quenching truths!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Let me leave you with this today: There is hope for the circumstances you are in...</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">"The Lord will guide you always;</span></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land</span></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">and will strengthen your frame.</span></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">You will be like a well-watered garden,</span></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">like a spring whose waters never fail."</span></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Isaiah 58:11</span></i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><b><a href="http://shellysc.blogspot.com/2010/05/shelly-says-stop-drop-and-pray.html">Stop, Drop and Pray</a></b> for the oppressed in our world today.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"> </span></span></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/121/9C1033F87F958043B3CEFA5EB5283801.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15415496284459946323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162401034538094458.post-2121532739281647602010-06-23T06:28:00.005-04:002010-06-23T07:27:48.282-04:00Part 6 ~ Chapter 45<div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Written with almost uncontainable excitement:</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Great is Thy faithfulness!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Great is Thy faithfulness!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Morning by morning, new mercies I see...</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">(from the chorus of the hymn, </span></span><b><a href="http://www.christian-lyrics.net/lincoln-brewster/great-is-thy-faithfulness-lyrics.html#axzz0rfexGS5q"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><i>Great is Thy Faithfulness</i></span></span></a></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><i>)</i></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">and today is no exception! God never ceases to amaze me when I am still and seek His face; sit at His feet and stop to take a drink of the Living Water.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">My cup runneth over this morning as I write, and as I bask in the Glory of our Lord.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">After a horrible bout with the enemy, I am walking in victory and liberty this morning as I thank God for delivering me out of "my Egypt" and allowing me to see the truth in the circumstances in which I am! </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">All the details are just that... details at this point, and they don't really matter.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">What matters is God Almighty has brought me out of slavery to the wicked ways of the world and has set me high upon a rock of revelation! I hope He is doing the same for you.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Have you tasted the honey and drank of the milk?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">How refreshing is it to you, today, that God teaches us grand life lessons... using the very things satan has tried to use to defeat us?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">When God gets through to you, teaching you these grand life lessons, I want you to "forget {those} former things. Do not dwell on the past" (Isaiah 43:18 {emphasis mine}). </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">"See, I am doing a new thing," says the Lord. "Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland" (</span><b><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%2043:18-19&version=NIV"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Isaiah 43:19</span></a></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">).</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Friend, if you do not see it, I encourage you to sit at the feet of Jesus and lay all your burdens down. Cast them on Him! Tell Him your troubles. Relinquish your sorrows. Trade them in for the joy of the Lord! </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">He's got beauty for your ashes; strength for all the many fears you hide in your soul. He will pour the oil of gladness over your sweet head and your tears of mourning will be swept away in rivers of mercy and grace. He will robe you in a cloak of righteousness and you will sing eloquent praises... forgetting all that lies behind and looking towards the hope and the future He has planned for you. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Don't you want that? Don't you want the life of liberty God has destined you to experience? </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">I do!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Please forgive me for typing away this morning. I know I promised I'd try to keep these posts shorter so you can read chapters at a time and then come on the blog and discuss several chapters at a time without having to spend all day at the computer : ) .</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">I am just full of gladness this morning... in awe of all the things He has done. It's not that there's anything, earthly, out of the ordinary today. I'm still sick and my husband still does not have a job. Our finances are very limited and our one car sits out in the driveway (granted, I am extremely thankful that we have that one!). </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">I just had a REALLY good time reading Scripture this morning and was hopping all over the Bible soaking in the Word of God. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">After some time in the desert, that's all you need. He is ALL I need when I'm surrounded by the throes of the enemy. ALL I NEED! </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">* I just realized that I'm singing </span></span><b><a href="http://www.christianlyricsonline.com/artists/bethany-dillon/all-i-need.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Bethany Dillon's song, <i>All I Need</i></span></span></a></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"> in my head. I just searched for the lyrics so I could show the reference, and lo and behold... it's my song today! In the second verse, she even says:</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">When the morning comes </span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; "><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">And Your mercy is renewed </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">There's a fire in my bones </span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">I'm not afraid to go alone </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">You're all I need </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">I couldn't have said it better!</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">It's rising up all around!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Can you feel it?</span></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">The anthem of the Lord's Renown! </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><b><a href="http://www.christian-lyrics.net/chris-tomlin/holy-is-the-lord-lyrics.html#axzz0rfnTXDCS"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><i>Holy is the Lord</i></span></a></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">, God, Almighty!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><b><a href="http://shellysc.blogspot.com/2010/05/shelly-says-stop-drop-and-pray.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Stop, Drop and Pray</span></a></b></span></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/121/9C1033F87F958043B3CEFA5EB5283801.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15415496284459946323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162401034538094458.post-73580595381856801352010-06-22T05:52:00.002-04:002010-06-22T06:09:21.010-04:00Part 6 ~ Chapter 44<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In Chapter 44 </span></span><b><a href="http://www.lproof.org/aboutus/bethmoore/default.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Beth Moore</span></span></a></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> says, "... any benefit missing in our lives is an indicator of a stronghold, an area of defeat." </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">She's referring to the 5 benefits of a covenant relationship with God, and Beth also helps to answer a question I was asked very early on in our study: What exactly is a stronghold? </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The quote above adds more insight to the definition we discussed. It's easy to recognize a stronghold when we look at areas of defeat. How simple is that?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">What strongholds are currently in your life?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">What/Who is the desire of your heart? </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://shellysc.blogspot.com/2010/05/shelly-says-stop-drop-and-pray.html">Stop, Drop and Pray</a></b> that you may be a witness today.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/121/9C1033F87F958043B3CEFA5EB5283801.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15415496284459946323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162401034538094458.post-2841459713254083052010-06-21T06:45:00.001-04:002010-06-21T06:58:19.151-04:00Part 6 ~ Chapter 43<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Do you display the beauty of the Lord?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Do you sit at His feet every day and walk away reflecting the beauty of His glory?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Are you an oak of righteousness planted by the living waters?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Do you love the Lord God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength? (<b><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=mark%2012:30&version=NIV">see Mark 12:30</a></b>)</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Stop, Drop and Pray. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">We're on the final stretch!</span></span></span></b></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/121/9C1033F87F958043B3CEFA5EB5283801.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15415496284459946323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162401034538094458.post-16004294823249590732010-06-20T07:14:00.002-04:002010-06-20T07:52:41.179-04:00Part 6 ~ Chapter 42<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This is another "WOW" chapter for me and one that I'll refer to frequently! The final illustration to "bow thought to the truth" (Beth Moore page 246) completes the extreme makeover I described in the last post.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">With vibrant paint and/or updated wallpaper in hand, lovingly apply truth to the primed walls of your soul. When truth covers the walls, your thoughts become captive. * Remember the 1st illustration Beth Moore describes on page 243? The skeleton figure was captive. And, in the last illustration (page 246), the thoughts are captive.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Stepping back and allowing God to do a holy makeover in your mind takes you from "Captive" to "Captor." Hallelujah!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The last paragraph on page 248 is one that I encourage you do highlight and/or copy and post somewhere you'll see it often. It is the study of our last couple chapters in one paragraph. It is a great reminder on how to renew your mind.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: large; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: large; ">What are your thoughts on renewing the mind? Is this something you struggle with or do you have some tools/tips you could pass on to the rest of us? Please do, share!</span></div><div><br /></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://shellysc.blogspot.com/2010/05/shelly-says-stop-drop-and-pray.html">Stop, Drop and Pray</a></span></span></b></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/121/9C1033F87F958043B3CEFA5EB5283801.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15415496284459946323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162401034538094458.post-48002341992796211622010-06-19T06:39:00.002-04:002010-06-19T07:33:20.722-04:00Part 6 ~ Chapter 41<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>This is the concept, in my own words, that I walked away with from Chapter 41:</i></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Allow God to do an amazing makeover in your mind (soul). You start the process by stripping the walls of your mind that are covered in layers and layers of leaded paint (ie, toxic thoughts) and/or 80's wallpaper (ie, ancient thoughts that keep you plastered in an era of sin). </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Now, if you need help, just ask God to empower you with the Holy Spirit at work in you. He will do it! </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Do not leave the walls of your mind bare. It is imperative that you not procrastinate; however, you must move on quickly to the next step.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Then, prime the walls of your mind with the TRUTH! This is a simple, yet often overlooked step. Pick up the Sword of the Spirit (the Word of God), search for the truth, and apply it liberally. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Next, DO NOT allow the enemy to go shopping with you for the new paint and/or wallpaper. If you let satan pick out the colors and/or pattern, it will look good in the store. BUT, when you get it home you'll realize you made a big mistake. I can promise you anything he picks out will not look good in that beautifully renewed, perfectly primed soul of yours. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">*** If you fall prey to the enemy while searching for new wall coverings, a refund is just a prayer away. You don't even have to go back to the store. Just get on your knees. God will honor your refund request with or without a receipt. Sweet Mercy!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Finally, apply a fresh coat of vibrant paint or that updated wallpaper...</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">it sounds like we'll be covering (ha... pun intended instead of deleted) that step in the next chapter. ; ) </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I am so full of love and freedom this morning! I hope and pray you are, too!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Anyone for a shopping trip?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://shellysc.blogspot.com/2010/05/shelly-says-stop-drop-and-pray.html">Stop, Drop and Pray</a></b>... Then SHOP! we've got new wallpaper/paint to pick out today!</span></span></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/121/9C1033F87F958043B3CEFA5EB5283801.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15415496284459946323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162401034538094458.post-18245697498260863192010-06-18T06:56:00.005-04:002010-06-18T07:29:34.985-04:00Part 6 ~ Chapter 40<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">I've enjoyed reading the whole book, but this chapter really excites me!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Practical application and a step-by-step process make things attainable and simple for me. That's exactly what this section of our study brings to the table. Are you ready to break free?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">When I've heard this verse in Scripture in the past, "</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana;font-size:large;">take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ" (2 Corinthians 10:5b), I have to be honest in saying that I only thought I knew what that meant.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana;font-size:large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana;font-size:large;">I got the general gist, mind you, but there was still a part of me that stayed angry because I was still having the same thoughts that I "took captive to God." At one point, I even believed that there must be something wrong with me because I was still having the same thoughts and "God had not taken them away from me." </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana;font-size:large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Side but important note here: God gave us all a soul (mind, will and emotions) so that we have the freedom to think, make decisions and feel as we please.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana;font-size:large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana;font-size:large;">Then, I had a personal revelation. God was doing His part. I wasn't doing mine. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana;font-size:large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana;font-size:large;">I was praying for God to take the thoughts away... help me not to think them anymore. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana;font-size:large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana;font-size:large;">I wasn't taking them captive by coming to the same understanding God has of my sinful, idolatrous actions.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana;font-size:large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana;font-size:large;">That's the aha moment for me today. It is not a matter of simply admitting my sin: It is a matter of agreeing with God, understanding His Word, and learning "to 'think the thought' as it relates to Christ and who we are in Him" (<b><a href="http://www.lproof.org/aboutus/bethmoore/default.htm">Beth Moore</a></b> page 233-4). I do not have to stay in bondage because of my thoughts: I have the freedom to take my thoughts captive to Christ... the One who can deliver me from my own, raw thoughts!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana;font-size:large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana;font-size:large;">Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh! (sung on a high note as opposed to letting out a sigh... although it is a relief to hear the truth ; )</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana;font-size:large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana;font-size:large;">What is being revealed to you as you study these practical applications and truths? How did you answer the study questions?</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana;font-size:large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana;font-size:large;"><b><a href="http://shellysc.blogspot.com/2010/05/shelly-says-stop-drop-and-pray.html">Stop, Drop and Pray</a></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:verdana;font-size:large;"><br /></span></div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/121/9C1033F87F958043B3CEFA5EB5283801.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15415496284459946323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162401034538094458.post-36519288071121524482010-06-17T07:36:00.002-04:002010-06-17T08:17:32.235-04:00Part 6 ~ Chapter 39<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Wow, what a lesson! I have to admit, my brain hurts a little from trying to absorb and hold onto every single truth and tool displayed in the reading. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This is yet another chunk of our study I'll want to go back and review long after our journey together ends. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This chapter has me flipping back to <b><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+6&version=AMP">Ephesians 6</a></b>: I'm specifically looking at verses 10-18 that describe "the whole armor of God."</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">What would happen if you got up every morning and, before anything else, put on the whole armor of God?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: large; ">While I'm not asking you to share private information, I do encourage you to give serious thought to the discussion questions on page 286 for this chapter. If you feel led to share, please do so. Someone may need to hear your story.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: large; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: large; ">Consider strongholds in your life, how they gain strength, how your insecurities feed them, and the excuses and/or reasons you use for not taking these strongholds captive to Christ (paraphrased questions from page 286).</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: large; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: large; ">I pray that you experience the transforming power of God as you face these issues head on, fully clothed in the garments He has provided you with for battle.</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://shellysc.blogspot.com/2010/05/shelly-says-stop-drop-and-pray.html">Stop, Drop and Pray</a></b></span></span></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/121/9C1033F87F958043B3CEFA5EB5283801.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15415496284459946323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162401034538094458.post-34378132117439078802010-06-16T06:46:00.002-04:002010-06-16T08:08:08.389-04:00Part 6 ~ Chapter 38<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">As we turn the page to begin Part 6, I'm sad to know that we're near the end of our journey together. What makes me smile, though, is that we are on our way to freedom and living the life God intends for us!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I hope you are smiling today!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">On the first page of Chapter 38, I am thrilled to find out that we will be working on developing a steadfast mind. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I believe that being transformed by the renewing of the mind (<b><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=romans%2012:2&version=NIV">Romans 12:2</a></b>) is one of the very first steps to take in drawing closer to God.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Some of you have heard me "preach this sermon" before. If you have, please review. If this is your 1st time hearing it, please absorb the rich truth.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We are made of 3 parts: Soul (mind, will and emotions), Sprit (heart) and Body (physical self).</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I believe, that in order to become whole and fit, one must begin in the soul and make up his/her mind to change. It's also important to develop a steadfast mind so that your renewed mind can be firm and unwavering on the truth. You can work on your physical structure all year long and develop a heart of gold, but if you're not in your right mind, you may quickly fall prey to the enemy. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This is serious stuff. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Our minds are a battlefield and spiritual warfare is constantly being waged over our heads (<b><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+6:12&version=AMP;NASB;NLT;HCSB">Ephesians 6:12</a></b>). </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">While I could take up hours of your time talking about all of this, I encourage you to research God's Word for the truth and talk to a pastor who has studied this topic extensively. I am still learning, but I'll be happy to share my knowledge with you as well.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The truth will set you free (<b><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+8:32&version=AMP">John 8:32</a></b>).</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">* Now, I typed all that after reading just the first page (2 paragraphs) of Chapter 38 ; ), so, you can probably imagine how much I have to say on this topic. : ) </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I'll try to let <b><a href="http://www.lproof.org/aboutus/bethmoore/default.htm">Beth Moore </a></b>and God do most of the talking, but I'd like to add a few "Amens":</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">"Few biblical subjects are more controversial than spiritual warfare and the battlefield of the mind" (page 222).</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">"He will give us perfect peace in our imperfect minds" (page 223).</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">"Just as surely as the kingdom of God prospers when we are steadfast in Him, so our own hears and minds benefit" (page 223).</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I pray that you rest in Him today and use His word as your pillow. ; ) </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://shellysc.blogspot.com/2010/05/shelly-says-stop-drop-and-pray.html">Stop, Drop and Pray</a></span></span></b></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/121/9C1033F87F958043B3CEFA5EB5283801.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">p.s. While I can't remember the exact day, I do remember warning you about satan trying to keep you from a particular section. This is another one. I have no doubt that the enemy will try everything in his power to keep you from completing this section of our study. Don't give in to the enemy! Be transformed by the renewing of your mind (</span></span><b><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+12:2&version=HCSB"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Romans 12:2</span></span></a></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">)!</span></span></div>Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15415496284459946323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162401034538094458.post-19327523043020210202010-06-15T07:08:00.002-04:002010-06-15T07:19:04.265-04:00Part 5 ~ Chapter 37<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I believe that different aspects of God's love have greater meaning at different times in our lives.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So...</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Based on discussion question #4 in the back of the book, I'd like to ask you this question today:</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Right now, what aspect of God's love means the most to you? Why?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Leadership, Salvation, Mercy, Comfort, Defense, Other</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">For me, it's definitely mercy at the moment. I have been overwhelmed by His mercy and Fatherly Love lately. It means so much to me that God looks at me with the eyes of a Loving Father and has mercy on my soul!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">No matter where you've come from, no matter what you've done, you can trust God to forgive every sin and redeem you from the pit in which you live.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Sweet Mercy!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: large; "><b><a href="http://shellysc.blogspot.com/2010/05/shelly-says-stop-drop-and-pray.html">Stop, Drop and Pray</a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">. Thank the Lord today!</span></b></span></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/121/9C1033F87F958043B3CEFA5EB5283801.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15415496284459946323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162401034538094458.post-7159902416493451792010-06-14T07:05:00.003-04:002010-06-14T07:57:27.575-04:00Part 5 ~ Chapter 36<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">"Belief is not a feeling. It's a choice."</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.lproof.org/aboutus/bethmoore/default.htm">Beth Moore</a></b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">What a statement! I know I'm guilty of sitting around and waiting for myself to fully believe when the power has been "in my head" all along. The mind is a part of the soul, so the ability to believe rests within the soul (mind, will and emotions). It's not something that just happens: You have to be willing to believe.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Have you ever been sick for so long that you forgot what being well felt like?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I certainly have.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In fact, I've been sick for so long that I have (at times) believed I would never get better. Talk about unbelief! </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: large; ">This chapter reminds me that we are made of 3 parts: Soul, Spirit and Body</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Every part affects each other. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I believe it's possible for unbelief (or any other "soul sickness") to manifest itself in our spirit and/or body. Along the same lines, when our physical body is sick our spirit and soul are affected.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">When you feel sick, try to examine all aspects of your self. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">You may find that the real, deep rooted problem is something you never thought possible. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://shellysc.blogspot.com/2010/05/shelly-says-stop-drop-and-pray.html">Stop, Drop and Pray</a></b></span></span></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/121/9C1033F87F958043B3CEFA5EB5283801.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">p.s. I'm finding that it's often difficult to keep these posts short. ; ) There is so much to glean from each chapter. Feel free to discuss any aspect of your reading and/or answers to study questions in the comments section below. </span></span></div>Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15415496284459946323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162401034538094458.post-48532103199828330072010-06-13T09:04:00.003-04:002010-06-13T10:02:14.053-04:00Part 5 ~ Chapter 35<div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In the secret</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In the quiet place</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In the stillness </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">You are there</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In the secret</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In the quiet hour I wait only for You</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Cause, I want to know You more</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I want to know You</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I want to hear Your voice</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I want to know You more</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I want to touch You</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I want to see Your face</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I want to know You more</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I am reaching for the highest goal</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">That I might receive the prize</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Pressing onward</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Pushing every hindrance aside</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Out of my way</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Cause, I want to know You more.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Lyrics from</span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-weight: bold; "><a href="http://www.christian-lyrics.net/sonicflood/i-want-to-know-you-lyrics.html#axzz0qjxKUpPB"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I Want To Know You by Sonicflood</span></span></a></span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">While I love this entire song, there is a key part that sticks out to me - "pushing every hindrance aside, out of my way." </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Often times, we don't allow God complete and total access to our hearts because of our "hang ups." We read this at the end of Chapter 35, we've heard it before and I've even said it in front of an audience of 30+ women.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This is a big hindrance to experiencing the fullness of God's love - not allowing Him to fill the empty places that we've stuffed with stuff... only hoping to find satisfaction.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">You have to allow God to have access to the deepest, dirtiest rooms of your heart. He stands at the door and knocks, but we often only let Him into the foyer... if at all.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">No room is too messy for God.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">To realize and experience the magnitude of His love, you have to be open to receiving it and that means coming apart before God and confessing even the most embarrassing stuff... letting Him into the messiest places. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I tell you all this today because I am realizing that there are a couple of rooms I've unknowingly kept padlocked. I only thought I had let Him have access to my entire being.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">It's time to dig up the key, unlock the door, let go, and let God. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">How is Part 5 of our study affecting you? I'd love to hear from ya.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><a href="http://shellysc.blogspot.com/2010/05/shelly-says-stop-drop-and-pray.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Stop, Drop and Pray</span></span></a></b></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/121/9C1033F87F958043B3CEFA5EB5283801.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15415496284459946323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162401034538094458.post-46022481586847982362010-06-12T05:47:00.006-04:002010-06-13T09:04:05.308-04:00Part 5 ~ Chapter 34 Part 3<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I am beginning to understand that I don't see myself how God sees me. Perhaps this is all about an identity crisis?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Can you relate? Please share.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I do now realize another component to this chapter that is causing me to dig deeper: <b><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=ps%20107&version=NIV">Psalm 107</a></b> and rebellion against God. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Just as Beth points out, verse 12 is startling. God "subjected them to bitter labor... and there was no one to help." </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I believe that God wants only the best for us. I have to really pray about how He handles us when we are rebellious. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Perhaps I'm hung up on this chapter because it touches a very deep place in my being. I grew up with the "fear of God," but it was in the way that I feared His wrath. While I knew "Jesus loves the little children," I didn't always focus on that. I focused on "obeying God or else."</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Please let me say that I wasn't abused and I don't remember anybody cramming this idea down my throat. I do remember being afraid of God, though. I'm not sure how this way of thinking became a true concept for me. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">As an adult (over the past 2 years), I have come to know a very loving God. God is love. While I've known this for a very long time, I don't think it was a true reality... just a concept. Does that make sense? </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Maybe I need to spend a lot of time meditating on God's unfailing love and the freedom that comes with it, ie., Chapter 34. That would make sense considering how much I've thought about all I've done wrong and why couldn't possibly love me as much as He says He does. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Now, is this teetering on unbelief?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Whew! I'm exhausted! I'm at that point where there's a lot to process, but I do believe the truth is coming to the surface.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Thank you for listening. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I realize that I need to spend a lot more time with this chapter, but I am going to move on... coming back often to meditate on Chapter 34 until I realize the full scope of what God is trying to teach me here.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I feel like I might find the answers as I move on...</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">LOL... I just peeked at the next chapters to see if anything popped out at me. After reading the titles to Chapters 35-37, I am feeling like Chapter 36 (Failure to Believe God's Unfailing Love) could help. ; )</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">God is good!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://shellysc.blogspot.com/2010/05/shelly-says-stop-drop-and-pray.html">Stop, Drop, and Pray</a></b>. Then, let's move on... revisiting when we need to... but moving forward in the quest for knowledge! : ) </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/121/9C1033F87F958043B3CEFA5EB5283801.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a></div>Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15415496284459946323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162401034538094458.post-32891735242148430612010-06-12T05:47:00.004-04:002010-06-13T08:38:52.433-04:00Part 5 ~ Chapter 34 Part 2<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">After re-reading the chapter 4 times, I am still trying to discern the message God wants me to take away from this part and/or what I'm specifically supposed to learn.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Do you ever get the feeling that there is something you're missing? If you can relate, then you know how I feel about this chapter.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">As a whole, the actual words make sense and there are obvious lessons to be learned. I cannot, however, get past the feeling that there is a nugget of truth or even a pot of gold for me to discover here, and I'm just not getting it.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Please forgive me for being disjointed with these posts on Chapter 34. I'm going to try and pick it all apart.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">On page 197, <b><a href="http://www.lproof.org/aboutus/bethmoore/default.htm">Beth Moore</a></b> says she used to struggle with the truth of the depths of God's love. She says, "We readily accept God's love for others but struggle with the belief that He loves us equally, radically, completely and unfailingly."</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Beth goes on to say that she struggled with this because of her "own sins and weaknesses," and she focused on all the reasons He shouldn't love her.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Maybe this is my problem, too. I have often meditated (not purposely, mind you) on the reasons God shouldn't love me... why I'm "not good enough" to be God's child and how He must look at me because of my sin. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Looking at this now, I see the unhealthy thought patterns that have skewed my mind and emotions. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Maybe I should start with learning how to love myself and forgive myself? If I can look at myself the way God looks at me (based on truths, not what I think b/c of my sins), then perhaps I'll be able to accept the full scope of God's love for me.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://shellysc.blogspot.com/2010/05/shelly-says-stop-drop-and-pray.html">Stop, Drop and Pray</a></b></span></span></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/121/9C1033F87F958043B3CEFA5EB5283801.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15415496284459946323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162401034538094458.post-66142616210876275062010-06-12T05:20:00.002-04:002010-06-12T05:47:07.793-04:00Part 5 ~ Chapter 34<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Wow, what a message! Did this chapter open your eyes and ears like it did mine? This is one of those that I'm going to have to park on. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">While I read the whole chapter and then went back to focus on individual parts, I'm having a hard time completely wrapping my brain around everything that was written.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I'll come back and add to this post (in "parts") as I discern the message God is giving me, but in the meantime... this chapter is deep and I need some more time with it.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Can you help me work through this? Please share your thoughts on this chapter. Perhaps your own comments will open up the understanding for me. How did you answer the study questions?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Is it safe to say that this chapter speaks to the phrase, "That which doesn't kill us makes us stronger" (philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche)?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://shellysc.blogspot.com/2010/05/shelly-says-stop-drop-and-pray.html">Stop, Drop and Pray</a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b>.</b> </span> </b>I know I need your prayers today!</span></span></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/121/9C1033F87F958043B3CEFA5EB5283801.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15415496284459946323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162401034538094458.post-7100698233190844622010-06-11T07:08:00.003-04:002010-06-11T07:51:16.479-04:00Part 5 ~ Chapter 33<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Love, Love, Love</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">It's the Greatest Commandment, all we need, what we long for. Right?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">As we turn the page to another chapter, we also begin Part 5 of our journey today! </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Do you find it ironic that our earthly parents and caretakers are constantly, lovingly pushing us away from our temporal home while our Heavenly Parent constantly, lovingly pulls us towards our eternal home?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This irony struck me as I read the words of the child psychologist <b><a href="http://www.lproof.org/aboutus/bethmoore/default.htm">Beth</a></b> quotes on page 194 of our study: "If the bond we had with them as infants did not change, we would never be able to let them go" (referring to a parent/caretaker's relationship with their teenagers). </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Switching gears completely now...</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I am reading a fiction book right now from the <b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/?ie=UTF8&keywords=yada-yada+prayer+group&tag=googhydr-20&index=aps&hvadid=1151701241&ref=pd_sl_3mrkix48hu_e">Yada Yada Prayer Group</a></b> series. Now, if you know me well, then you probably know that I rarely read fiction. I'm actually a non-fiction kinda girl. Fiction has to be really good to draw me in and keep me reading. So, long story short... this is a REALLY good series of stories. Very inspirational.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Just last night, the fictional prayer group in the series gathered for a meeting and they quoted, from <b><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ps%20136&version=NIV">Psalms</a></b>, the "His love endures forever" passage. They went on to shout woes and trials, praise and glory, requests and answers... but they followed them all with the same line... </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">His love endures forever!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">No matter what happens in life... know that He is faithful and His love endures forever. There is nothing, no one like God! He is our Rock, Salvation, Every Present Hope, Mighty Warrior, Prince of Peace, Mighty God, Holy One, Emmanuel - God With Us!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This passage means so much to me because it was "played out" another time in my life. I was chaperoning a youth group last summer when about 30 African children showed up to sing to us. What a blessing! It would take quite a bit of writing, then reading on your part, to describe the amazing event. Just please know it was real special. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">At one point in their presentation, the microphone was passed from child to child as they spoke words of praise to God... then followed it with...</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">"His love endures forever!" </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana, serif; font-size: large; ">No matter what's going on in your life, no matter who has betrayed you, no matter the circumstance...</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">His love endures forever!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Sweet Mercy! AGAPE!!! ; )</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><a href="http://shellysc.blogspot.com/2010/05/shelly-says-stop-drop-and-pray.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Stop, Drop and Pray</span></span></a></b></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/121/9C1033F87F958043B3CEFA5EB5283801.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15415496284459946323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162401034538094458.post-14254796661199791872010-06-11T06:47:00.003-04:002010-06-11T07:06:43.683-04:00Part 4 ~ Chapter 32<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I could list so many quotes from this chapter... takeaways that are great reminders... but I might end up infringing on some copyright laws. : ) </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">With all due respect to the </span></span><b><a href="http://www.bhpublishinggroup.com/books/products.asp?p=9780805445527"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">publisher and writer of Breaking Free</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">, I will refrain from quoting half the chapter here and just refer to several things that might encourage you to review your own copy... or go out and buy one to support <b><a href="http://www.lproof.org/aboutus/bethmoore/default.htm">Beth Moore's </a></b>ministry.</span></span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In this chapter, we are reminded that we are not perfect (neither are we expected to be, thank God), but in God, we are being perfected into the image and likeness of Christ. I will hold onto the five "daily treasures" on pages 188-189. These are things to remember as you walk with God: He provides new mercies every morning.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I'm like Beth lighting her own fire: I tend to depend on my own flint to start my own fire, which provides flames for my own torch and attempt to blaze my own path (in reference to her story on the bottom of page 190). </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I have to remember to look to/for God DAILY and depend on Him ALWAYS.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I do pretty good on a lot of days, but there are so many others on which you'll find me furiously searching to create my own spark.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">On the journey, please remind me to look for the Divine Spark within and also point to this post and this chapter! ; ) </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">When my torch goes out and I'm exhausted, PRAISE GOD "no matter how long the detour has been, the return is only a shortcut away" (Beth Moore). </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://shellysc.blogspot.com/2010/05/shelly-says-stop-drop-and-pray.html">Stop, Drop and Pray</a></b>... put out your own torch and carry The Eternal Flame in your heart. It's the only thing you need today.</span></span></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/121/9C1033F87F958043B3CEFA5EB5283801.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15415496284459946323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162401034538094458.post-87766291848878936532010-06-11T06:15:00.008-04:002010-06-11T06:46:43.891-04:00Part 4 ~ Chapter 31<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.projectspossible.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/11/old_faithful_4603.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 342px; height: 500px;" src="http://www.projectspossible.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/11/old_faithful_4603.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.projectspossible.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/11/old_faithful_4603.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In this chapter, I became refreshed when I read one of the dear passages of Scripture that captures the very essence of our journey. I have often thought of it during our time together.</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></a><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Isaiah 43:18-19</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">"</span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland.</span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">"</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Sweet words to a parched soul and desperate spirit!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">By this point in our journey, I hope you have gotten to a point where you can put the past behind you and find hope that God is going to do a new thing in your life. Your part is letting Him; allowing Him to take over and make you over! This "new thing" is gonna spring up like </span></span><b><a href="http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.projectspossible.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/11/old_faithful_4603.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.projectspossible.com/yellowstone-park-old-faithful&usg=__Jc0OnksgS4KT7tkQgEz6AE6Oo1s=&h=500&w=342&sz=18&hl=en&start=17&sig2=itsBPIwauGNPGpHgSUrGCw&um=1&itbs=1&tbnid=I041TQG89PDiTM:&tbnh=130&tbnw=89&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dold%2Bfaithful%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26client%3Dsafari%26sa%3DN%26rls%3Den%26tbs%3Disch:1&ei=aRISTMzyKIWClAfq5cCEBA"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Old Faithful</span></span></a></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> and amaze you! You'll find a way in the desert and drink refreshing Living Water where you thought there was no water at all... no refreshment.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">God longs to satisfy your every need, and He even wants to give you the desires of your heart (your very spirit). Will you allow Him to provide for you in this way?</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">God created you with a soul (your very own mind, will and emotions). With this soul, you have the ability to make decisions. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Who or what will be Master of your life? </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">You choose. You'll be the one who has to live eternity with the consequences.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><a href="http://shellysc.blogspot.com/2010/05/shelly-says-stop-drop-and-pray.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Stop, Drop and Pray</span></span></a></b></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/121/9C1033F87F958043B3CEFA5EB5283801.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15415496284459946323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162401034538094458.post-18592584612729482072010-06-10T08:11:00.003-04:002010-06-11T06:42:50.363-04:00Part 4 ~ Chapter 30<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">"Your will, not mine, O God."</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Do you <i>purposely stay away</i> from that prayer because you're scared of where God would take you and you're perfectly fine being just where you are?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Do you <i>forget about walking in obedience to Christ </i>while staying locked into your own path?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Do you <i>purposely pray</i> that prayer yet you don't really, honestly mean it?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Do you <i>say the words but don't mean the action</i> unless it fits in to what you've planned?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Do you <i>pray that prayer, mean it, and live the abundant life</i>?</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Which option <i>do you</i> most resemble?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Which option <i>would you</i> like to resemble?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Which option <i>will you </i>resemble?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><b><a href="http://shellysc.blogspot.com/2010/05/shelly-says-stop-drop-and-pray.html">Stop, Drop, and Pray</a></b>... </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">and mean it! </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Experience freedom in Christ by yielding to the Holy Spirit.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Where the Spirit of the Lord is... there is freedom... free for all!</span></span></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/121/9C1033F87F958043B3CEFA5EB5283801.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15415496284459946323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162401034538094458.post-36893930526686872010-06-09T07:24:00.004-04:002010-06-09T07:55:46.438-04:00Part 4 ~ Chapter 29<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Today, I was bathed in truth as I read Chapter 29 which completes the list of 6 characteristics of rebellion. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">While I think we can all identify with every aspect at one time or another, which one do you most identify with now (at this time in your life)?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">For me it's #6. I have been running from the real answers (truth) to several big questions in the recent past. Now, you can chalk this up to a need for control (anybody?) or just plain ole disobedience (you, too?). Perhaps even fear? (Um... hmm!). I'm sure there are other reasons I didn't want to look at the truth that's been staring me in the face.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Regardless, there comes a time when you have to face the truth... even if it hurts.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">The why/reason is what I had to give to God. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">I am finding that actually bringing myself to face and accept the truth is the hard part. But, if I trust in God to handle the rest, there is peace instead of pain. Now, don't get me wrong... facing tough/scary/real situations is rarely completely peaceful and painless. Nobody said it would be easy; however, when I'm walking in truth and facing reality... God's presence flies over me like a dove and leaves me with the peace that passes understanding. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">If I do my part (the letting go), God ALWAYS does His part (taking care of the rest)!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">When I let go and let God, there is peace. The circumstances may still exist, but I am free from the bondage in which they once kept me. God carried the load and lifts it off my shoulders.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Sweet Mercy!!! Praise God for Liberty!!!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">I would love to hear your answers to the study questions. Primarily, why do you think we run from the real answers?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><b><a href="http://shellysc.blogspot.com/2010/05/shelly-says-stop-drop-and-pray.html">Stop, Drop and Pray</a></b></span></span></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/121/9C1033F87F958043B3CEFA5EB5283801.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15415496284459946323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162401034538094458.post-66445241962664589552010-06-08T08:38:00.003-04:002010-06-08T09:19:21.765-04:00Part 4 ~ Chapter 28<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">And, then, I turn the page to find "the big word"... again...</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;">OBEDIENCE</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">I tell ya, God is just not letting up! : ) </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">I'm not sure if I've shared this already, but there are 3 words that keep coming up over and over for me. During the past 2 years, faith, trust, and obedience have been "buzz words" for me. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">It's kind of hard to explain, but the gist here is that every time I turn around (it seems) one or all 3 of those words is staring back at me. Think God is trying to tell me something? ; )</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><b><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James%201:22-25&version=MSG">James 1:22-25 </a></b>is a beautiful reminder.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Little girls often dream of fairy-tales, and it's no surprise (or secret) that we're still expecting the stuff of which dreams are made, even as adults. <b><a href="http://www.lproof.org/aboutus/bethmoore/default.htm">Beth Moore</a></b> says it like is on page 167: </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">"We want God to somehow wave a wand over us and magically remove every hindrance without requiring anything of us." </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Was anybody else convicted there... or was it just me?</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Beth goes on to point out that we would never learn anything if all our problems were solved for us with a wave of a magic wand. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">After hearing those 3 buzz words over and over (faith, trust, obedience), I have often just pleaded with God to "fix me." I find myself saying things like, "You're God and you can fix me. Just do it, God, please!" </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">And, that's just it. If God fixes me without my cooperation and obedience, I'll never learn. I've got to have faith and trust that He knows best! The Father always does, right? ; ) </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Maybe I need to glean from <b><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=ps%2081&version=NIV">Psalm 81</a></b>. Maybe you do, too?</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><b><a href="http://shellysc.blogspot.com/2010/05/shelly-says-stop-drop-and-pray.html">Stop, Drop and Pray</a></b></span></span></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/121/9C1033F87F958043B3CEFA5EB5283801.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15415496284459946323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2162401034538094458.post-36478712199529822992010-06-08T08:07:00.005-04:002010-06-08T09:18:58.745-04:00Part 4 ~ Chapter 27<div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-weight: normal; "><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." </span></span></i></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-weight: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"> Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)</span></span></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, </span></span></i><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen." </span></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Ephesians 3:20-21 (NIV)</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">When I began reading Chapter 27, these are the two verses from Scripture that came to mind. I believe that we often limit God and therefore miss out on what these verses are talking about. If we don't allow God to work in our lives, gently and effectively, we may never know the true reality of these promises.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">I think one of the main keys for experiencing Jeremiah 29:11 and Ephesians 3:20-21 is that we have to look past the circumstances we are in and still find it in our hearts to trust that God will do what He says He's gonna do. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">We also have to obey Him. Then...</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><h2 id="passage_heading" style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">"</span></span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">However, as it is written: </span></span></span></i></h2><div class="result-text-style-normal" style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; "><p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"> "No eye has seen, </span></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"> no ear has heard, </span></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"> no mind has conceived </span></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"> what God has prepared for those who love him."</span></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">1 Corinthians 2:9 (NIV)</span></span></div><p></p></div></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><b><a href="http://shellysc.blogspot.com/2010/05/shelly-says-stop-drop-and-pray.html">Stop, Drop and Pray</a></b></span></span></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/121/9C1033F87F958043B3CEFA5EB5283801.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Shellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15415496284459946323noreply@blogger.com0