Shelly Says Chronicles

I have a new bloggy home!

2010-12-19T10:24:00.004-05:00

shellyscantrell.com

The official launch for this site is scheduled for
January 3, 2011!

I hope you'll come by and visit soon!

Shelly Says ~ "Ignite the Passion"

2010-07-06T08:11:00.014-04:00

Lately, God has been stirring in my heart. I was troubled by this at first.

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.

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.

By the way, I have since confessed and repented of this anger.

Here's the deal though. Since then, I have come to understand that God might be changing my photography simply as I know it. : )

I believe that He is leading me into "Spiritual Photography."

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.

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.

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!

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.

Just this morning, I got another nudge to get into Spiritual Photography. That's why it's on the brain.

If you're interested in viewing my work, you can visit my current portfolio by clicking the bold words.

I will keep you posted on the "nudgings."

Is God igniting a new passion in you? Is He rekindling an old one?

Spend some time in prayer today asking God to reveal how He wants to work in your life.

Tune in to that still, small voice that is nudging you towards God's will for your life.

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.

Isaiah 43:19 (NIV)

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?!?!) ; )

Part 6 ~ Chapter 47 ~ The Final Link

2010-06-25T07:00:00.006-04:00

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!

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.

Well, near the beginning of these struggles, I heard a song that gave me hope and has served as a reminder through these trials.

It's no secret that the Lord speaks to me in songs and that music is a very important part of my life.

Today as I read Isaiah 40:28-31, the song Everlasting God by Lincoln Brewster 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 "strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord."

So, there is purpose in our waiting. ; ) There is hope in the storm! Strength is rising!

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} is God" (Psalm 46:10 {emphasis mine}). There are preparations and stillness but very little action, especially when you're sick all the time.

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!

Something very refreshing in this chapter, for me, is the nugget of knowledge Beth 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.' "

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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 Payed 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!

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!

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.

I can't wait to display His presence in my life and reflect the glory of the Lord!

I am thankful for your words of encouragement and open heart! Don't forget:

Stop, Drop and Pray. If you allow it, the Lord has a life of liberty coming your way!

Part 6 ~ Chapter 46

2010-06-24T09:06:00.002-04:00

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 (for those of you who like reading before 8am).

I was brought to tears by the story Beth 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.

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.

God truly is amazing and will use our weaknesses to show off His strength!

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:

~ 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.

~ 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.

~ "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 all called to minister, and we'd be blessed to minister to others out of the overflow God has provided to us.

~ 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.

I really could go on and on... this chapter is such a wellspring of thirst-quenching truths!

Let me leave you with this today: There is hope for the circumstances you are in...

"The Lord will guide you always;

he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land

and will strengthen your frame.

You will be like a well-watered garden,

like a spring whose waters never fail."

Isaiah 58:11

Stop, Drop and Pray for the oppressed in our world today.

Part 6 ~ Chapter 45

2010-06-23T06:28:00.005-04:00

Written with almost uncontainable excitement:

Great is Thy faithfulness!

Morning by morning, new mercies I see...

(from the chorus of the hymn, Great is Thy Faithfulness)

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.

My cup runneth over this morning as I write, and as I bask in the Glory of our Lord.

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!

All the details are just that... details at this point, and they don't really matter.

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.

Have you tasted the honey and drank of the milk?

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?

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}).

"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" (Isaiah 43:19).

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!

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.

Don't you want that? Don't you want the life of liberty God has destined you to experience?

I do!

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 : ) .

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!).

I just had a REALLY good time reading Scripture this morning and was hopping all over the Bible soaking in the Word of God.

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!

* I just realized that I'm singing Bethany Dillon's song, All I Need 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:

When the morning comes

And Your mercy is renewed

There's a fire in my bones

I'm not afraid to go alone

You're all I need

I couldn't have said it better!

It's rising up all around!

Can you feel it?

The anthem of the Lord's Renown!

Holy is the Lord, God, Almighty!

Stop, Drop and Pray

Part 6 ~ Chapter 44

2010-06-22T05:52:00.002-04:00

In Chapter 44 Beth Moore says, "... any benefit missing in our lives is an indicator of a stronghold, an area of defeat."

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?

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?

What strongholds are currently in your life?

What/Who is the desire of your heart?

Stop, Drop and Pray that you may be a witness today.

Part 6 ~ Chapter 43

2010-06-21T06:45:00.001-04:00

Do you display the beauty of the Lord?

Do you sit at His feet every day and walk away reflecting the beauty of His glory?

Are you an oak of righteousness planted by the living waters?

Do you love the Lord God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength? (see Mark 12:30)

Stop, Drop and Pray. We're on the final stretch!

Part 6 ~ Chapter 42

2010-06-20T07:14:00.002-04:00

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.

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.

Stepping back and allowing God to do a holy makeover in your mind takes you from "Captive" to "Captor." Hallelujah!

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.

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!

Stop, Drop and Pray

Part 6 ~ Chapter 41

2010-06-19T06:39:00.002-04:00

This is the concept, in my own words, that I walked away with from Chapter 41:

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).

Now, if you need help, just ask God to empower you with the Holy Spirit at work in you. He will do it!

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.

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.

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.

*** 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!

Finally, apply a fresh coat of vibrant paint or that updated wallpaper...

it sounds like we'll be covering (ha... pun intended instead of deleted) that step in the next chapter. ; )

I am so full of love and freedom this morning! I hope and pray you are, too!

Anyone for a shopping trip?

Stop, Drop and Pray... Then SHOP! we've got new wallpaper/paint to pick out today!

Part 6 ~ Chapter 40

2010-06-18T06:56:00.005-04:00

I've enjoyed reading the whole book, but this chapter really excites me!

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?

When I've heard this verse in Scripture in the past, "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.

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."

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.

Then, I had a personal revelation. God was doing His part. I wasn't doing mine.

I was praying for God to take the thoughts away... help me not to think them anymore.

I wasn't taking them captive by coming to the same understanding God has of my sinful, idolatrous actions.

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" (Beth Moore 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!

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh! (sung on a high note as opposed to letting out a sigh... although it is a relief to hear the truth ; )

What is being revealed to you as you study these practical applications and truths? How did you answer the study questions?

Stop, Drop and Pray

Part 6 ~ Chapter 39

2010-06-17T07:36:00.002-04:00

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.

This is yet another chunk of our study I'll want to go back and review long after our journey together ends.

This chapter has me flipping back to Ephesians 6: I'm specifically looking at verses 10-18 that describe "the whole armor of God."

What would happen if you got up every morning and, before anything else, put on the whole armor of God?

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.

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).

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.

Stop, Drop and Pray

Part 6 ~ Chapter 38

2010-06-16T06:46:00.002-04:00

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!

I hope you are smiling today!

On the first page of Chapter 38, I am thrilled to find out that we will be working on developing a steadfast mind.

I believe that being transformed by the renewing of the mind (Romans 12:2) is one of the very first steps to take in drawing closer to God.

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.

We are made of 3 parts: Soul (mind, will and emotions), Sprit (heart) and Body (physical self).

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.

This is serious stuff.

Our minds are a battlefield and spiritual warfare is constantly being waged over our heads (Ephesians 6:12).

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.

The truth will set you free (John 8:32).

* 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. : )

I'll try to let Beth Moore and God do most of the talking, but I'd like to add a few "Amens":

"Few biblical subjects are more controversial than spiritual warfare and the battlefield of the mind" (page 222).

"He will give us perfect peace in our imperfect minds" (page 223).

"Just as surely as the kingdom of God prospers when we are steadfast in Him, so our own hears and minds benefit" (page 223).

I pray that you rest in Him today and use His word as your pillow. ; )

Stop, Drop and Pray

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 (Romans 12:2)!

Part 5 ~ Chapter 37

2010-06-15T07:08:00.002-04:00

I believe that different aspects of God's love have greater meaning at different times in our lives.

So...

Based on discussion question #4 in the back of the book, I'd like to ask you this question today:

Right now, what aspect of God's love means the most to you? Why?

Leadership, Salvation, Mercy, Comfort, Defense, Other

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!

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.

Sweet Mercy!

Stop, Drop and Pray. Thank the Lord today!

Part 5 ~ Chapter 36

2010-06-14T07:05:00.003-04:00

"Belief is not a feeling. It's a choice."

Beth Moore

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.

Have you ever been sick for so long that you forgot what being well felt like?

I certainly have.

In fact, I've been sick for so long that I have (at times) believed I would never get better. Talk about unbelief!

This chapter reminds me that we are made of 3 parts: Soul, Spirit and Body

Every part affects each other.

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.

When you feel sick, try to examine all aspects of your self.

You may find that the real, deep rooted problem is something you never thought possible.

Stop, Drop and Pray

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.

Part 5 ~ Chapter 35

2010-06-13T09:04:00.003-04:00

In the secret

In the quiet place

In the stillness

You are there

In the secret

In the quiet hour I wait only for You

Cause, I want to know You more

I want to know You

I want to hear Your voice

I want to know You more

I want to touch You

I want to see Your face

I want to know You more

I am reaching for the highest goal

That I might receive the prize

Pressing onward

Pushing every hindrance aside

Out of my way

Cause, I want to know You more.

Lyrics from I Want To Know You by Sonicflood

While I love this entire song, there is a key part that sticks out to me - "pushing every hindrance aside, out of my way."

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.

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.

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.

No room is too messy for God.

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.

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.

It's time to dig up the key, unlock the door, let go, and let God.

How is Part 5 of our study affecting you? I'd love to hear from ya.

Stop, Drop and Pray

Part 5 ~ Chapter 34 Part 3

2010-06-12T05:47:00.006-04:00

I am beginning to understand that I don't see myself how God sees me. Perhaps this is all about an identity crisis?

Can you relate? Please share.

I do now realize another component to this chapter that is causing me to dig deeper: Psalm 107 and rebellion against God.

Just as Beth points out, verse 12 is startling. God "subjected them to bitter labor... and there was no one to help."

I believe that God wants only the best for us. I have to really pray about how He handles us when we are rebellious.

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."

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.

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?

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.

Now, is this teetering on unbelief?

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.

Thank you for listening.

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.

I feel like I might find the answers as I move on...

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. ; )

God is good!

Stop, Drop, and Pray. Then, let's move on... revisiting when we need to... but moving forward in the quest for knowledge! : )

Part 5 ~ Chapter 34 Part 2

2010-06-12T05:47:00.004-04:00

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.

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.

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.

Please forgive me for being disjointed with these posts on Chapter 34. I'm going to try and pick it all apart.

On page 197, Beth Moore 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."

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.

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.

Looking at this now, I see the unhealthy thought patterns that have skewed my mind and emotions.

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.

Stop, Drop and Pray

Part 5 ~ Chapter 34

2010-06-12T05:20:00.002-04:00

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.

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.

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.

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?

Is it safe to say that this chapter speaks to the phrase, "That which doesn't kill us makes us stronger" (philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche)?

Stop, Drop and Pray. I know I need your prayers today!

Part 5 ~ Chapter 33

2010-06-11T07:08:00.003-04:00

Love, Love, Love

It's the Greatest Commandment, all we need, what we long for. Right?

As we turn the page to another chapter, we also begin Part 5 of our journey today!

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?

This irony struck me as I read the words of the child psychologist Beth 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).

Switching gears completely now...

I am reading a fiction book right now from the Yada Yada Prayer Group 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.

Just last night, the fictional prayer group in the series gathered for a meeting and they quoted, from Psalms, 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...

His love endures forever!

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!

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.

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...

"His love endures forever!"

No matter what's going on in your life, no matter who has betrayed you, no matter the circumstance...

His love endures forever!

Sweet Mercy! AGAPE!!! ; )

Stop, Drop and Pray

Part 4 ~ Chapter 32

2010-06-11T06:47:00.003-04:00

I could list so many quotes from this chapter... takeaways that are great reminders... but I might end up infringing on some copyright laws. : )

With all due respect to the publisher and writer of Breaking Free, 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 Beth Moore's ministry.

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.

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).

I have to remember to look to/for God DAILY and depend on Him ALWAYS.

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.

On the journey, please remind me to look for the Divine Spark within and also point to this post and this chapter! ; )

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).

Stop, Drop and Pray... put out your own torch and carry The Eternal Flame in your heart. It's the only thing you need today.

Part 4 ~ Chapter 31

2010-06-11T06:15:00.008-04:00

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.

Isaiah 43:18-19

"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."

Sweet words to a parched soul and desperate spirit!

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 Old Faithful 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.

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?

God created you with a soul (your very own mind, will and emotions). With this soul, you have the ability to make decisions.

Who or what will be Master of your life?

You choose. You'll be the one who has to live eternity with the consequences.

Stop, Drop and Pray

Part 4 ~ Chapter 30

2010-06-10T08:11:00.003-04:00

"Your will, not mine, O God."

Do you purposely stay away from that prayer because you're scared of where God would take you and you're perfectly fine being just where you are?

Do you forget about walking in obedience to Christ while staying locked into your own path?

Do you purposely pray that prayer yet you don't really, honestly mean it?

Do you say the words but don't mean the action unless it fits in to what you've planned?

Do you pray that prayer, mean it, and live the abundant life?

Which option do you most resemble?

Which option would you like to resemble?

Which option will you resemble?

Stop, Drop, and Pray...

and mean it!

Experience freedom in Christ by yielding to the Holy Spirit.

Where the Spirit of the Lord is... there is freedom... free for all!

Part 4 ~ Chapter 29

2010-06-09T07:24:00.004-04:00

Today, I was bathed in truth as I read Chapter 29 which completes the list of 6 characteristics of rebellion.

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)?

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.

Regardless, there comes a time when you have to face the truth... even if it hurts.

The why/reason is what I had to give to God.

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.

If I do my part (the letting go), God ALWAYS does His part (taking care of the rest)!

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.

Sweet Mercy!!! Praise God for Liberty!!!

I would love to hear your answers to the study questions. Primarily, why do you think we run from the real answers?

Stop, Drop and Pray

Part 4 ~ Chapter 28

2010-06-08T08:38:00.003-04:00

And, then, I turn the page to find "the big word"... again...

OBEDIENCE

I tell ya, God is just not letting up! : )

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.

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? ; )

James 1:22-25 is a beautiful reminder.

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. Beth Moore says it like is on page 167:

"We want God to somehow wave a wand over us and magically remove every hindrance without requiring anything of us."

Was anybody else convicted there... or was it just me?

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.

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!"

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? ; )

Maybe I need to glean from Psalm 81. Maybe you do, too?

Stop, Drop and Pray

Part 4 ~ Chapter 27

2010-06-08T08:07:00.005-04:00

"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."

Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

"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, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen."

Ephesians 3:20-21 (NIV)

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.

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.

We also have to obey Him. Then...

"However, as it is written:

"No eye has seen,

no ear has heard,

no mind has conceived

what God has prepared for those who love him."

1 Corinthians 2:9 (NIV)

Stop, Drop and Pray

Shelly Says ~ "The Votes are In!"

2010-06-08T07:56:00.003-04:00

Based on the votes received via web poll and e-mail, I constructed a schedule for June that reflects a compromise of all the votes received.

I hope it works well for you as we wrap up our study this month and

BREAK FREE!!!

Here's the plan:

I will still post a message on the blog every day, but I will try to shorten the length of my writings this month for those of you who want to do all of your reading for the week and then check in and read the blog every once in a while. This way, you can read the parts of the blog that pertain to the reading you've done.

The blog posts, starting after this one, will be labeled with Part and Chapter numbers so you can decipher which posts you want/need to read.

By Friday, June 11, I will have postings up that cover the remaining Chapters of Part 4 (through Chapter 32).

Also, on June 11 I will begin posting one chapter per day through June 25 (the official end of our study). So, June 11th's post will be for Chapter 33 and June 25th's post will be for Chapter 47.

You can use the green, shaded box on the right-hand side of the blog to see all the posts and then you just click on the ones you want to read.

Please feel free to comment and/or ask questions at any time. I am enjoying our conversations, and I love to hear from you!

Shelly Says ~ "Are You Ready?"

2010-06-07T06:40:00.003-04:00

My hope for you is that during this study you, of course, will break free from any bondage and places of captivity. I also pray that this study helps you to deepen your relationship with God.

For the longest time (like most of my life), I thought that following all the rules made me a "good person." I also thought the #1 way God spoke to me was through the 10 Commandments (Thou shalt not...).

Please don't get me wrong: The 10 Commandments are from God, and I believe He wants me to obey them. My point here is that the tablet with 10 commands are in place to guide me through life... help me experience the abundant life God has planned for me. What I have learned over the past 2 1/2 years is that the #1 way He speaks to me is through His entire Word... the Holy Bible.

His Word is a much broader scope of His intentions for me and they do include the 10 Commandments ; ) . His Word also shows me how humans have fallen into temptation and the harm they've brought upon themselves. There is not enough time in this day for me to explain all I have learned, but the main point today...

God already loves me and accepts me. I don't have to follow God's 10 Commandments for Him to love me and accept me. I try to follow God's Commandments and Christ's example to experience the good life... to live life more abundantly! I try to listen to the Holy Spirit because the Spirit is my guide... sent to live in my heart... the very essence of the Father and Son alive in me.

Why am I telling you all of this today? Well, I don't know ; ) . I actually intended to write about establishing some sacred, quiet time with God every day. Okay... so let me see if I can tie this all together...

I hope you can break free from anything that hinders your relationship with God. You can study Breaking Free, the Holy Bible, or any other Holy material and keep every rule perfectly... but never truly experience God. Why? Because keeping a set of rules is legalism. Establishing a true relationship with God is freedom!

Okay... I hope my "sermon" makes more sense now... : ) in the context of this entire study and the context of our reading over the weekend. If it does not, please don't hesitate to ask questions.

Chapters 23-26 usher us into the "reconstruction era" of our time together. Praise God!

Sweet peace and freedom come after a big ole "ugly cry" when you can release some emotions. I've had a few of those over the past 3 weeks. What about you? Were you able to release your grip on those ancient ruins and feel your soul, spirit and body healing? I pray you were.

Now, let's walk past those ruins with respect (not continued attachment) and look forward to sweet dreams and a life walking in obedience, ie, Part 4 of our study.

What stood out to you the most in the reading?

How did you answer some of the study questions?

Here are a couple in which I'd love to hear your answer...

Chapter 25, Question 1: Why do you think people are so insecure about their appearance?

Chapter 26, Question 3: How can you invest yourself in rearing spiritual children?

One of the best takeaways for me is in Chapter 24:

"We cannot make ourselves ready the moment we see Christ anymore than a woman can be prepared to meet her groom

at the altar with three minutes' notice."

Whooooo! Preach it, sister! People get ready! Jesus is coming!

Stop, Drop and Pray

Shelly Says ~ "Moving Along"

2010-06-04T07:22:00.005-04:00

We are now moving on to Part 4 of our journey!

If you are still wrestling with Part 3, I understand. You can always leave comments on the blog and continue to let God work things out. There are people coming along behind you on this journey and some of them may even meet you there. Feel free to stay as long as needed. Feel free to keep e-mailing me and/or using the comments section of the blog to share your feelings about Part 3. Talking in a safe place is often a great medicine for what ails you.

For all of us, I think it will be good to revisit that section from time to time. There are some great tools and information for dealing with the continuous strongholds that make their way into our lives.

When you're ready to move on, I recommend saying a prayer about your journey in Part 3 and thanking God for what He has done. Let Him know you're ready and open to begin the "reconstruction era!"

If you need help with wording, try this prayer:

Father God, I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made! Please forgive me of my sins and the nastiness I held in my heart all that time. You have searched me and revealed my anxious thoughts... my worries... thank You. You have made me aware of things I had no idea existed. I was blind to the lies satan was feeding me, but now I see... and the light of Your glory and grace fills me. Thank You! Please help me to move on past the hurting places and allow You to reconstruct the ruins.

~Amen

Great!... Now... moving along...

I am listening to you and agree that we need to regroup.

This weekend, let's stay parked on Chapters 23-26. If you have not read these chapters, please take some time to do so this weekend (they're short). Then, come back on Monday and join in the discussion. If there is something you're ready to discuss... go ahead and leave comments. The blog is still open (and hopefully active with conversation) all weekend.

For those of you on the e-mail list, I'll be sending a revised schedule on Monday since we spent extra time on Part 3. If you have any comments on how the schedule would work best for you... please e-mail them to me by 2pm on Sunday.

Stop, Drop and Pray

Shelly Says ~ "My heart was mended by truth!"

2010-06-03T07:18:00.005-04:00

The last 3 chapters of Part 3 in our study deal with the heart. My heart has been broken by betrayal and loss, but PRAISE GOD it has also been mended by truth!

Today, I want to share a story with you. The whole thing spans the length of my existence here on Earth, so I will not be able to type out the whole story (nor do I imagine you'd like to be sitting at your computer for days on end ;).

I would like to share the short version though, but before I do, it's important for me that you understand a few things:

I do not blame anyone besides satan. There is no one person or group of people responsible for what happened to me. I truly believe satan was behind it all along. He would have loved to see me miss my calling.

I mean no harm or disrespect to any religion, denomination, set of beliefs or morals when I tell you this story. This is simply about what I'm learning by reading the Bible myself and allowing God to speak to me, personally.

I tell you this story because I want you to see how God is working in my life, and I want to praise Him for all He has done!

I tell you this story because that's one reason we're on this journey together... to share in the learning, triumphs and sadness of it all.

I tell you this story because the truth set me free!

I grew up in an environment where women were not allowed to speak with authority in the church. They were expected to "keep silent" in part due to what 1 Timothy 2:11-12 says: A woman should learn in quietness and full submission. I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man; she must be silent.

I grew up believing that women should not teach or preach in front of the church as a whole. While I don't remember a sermon on 1 Timothy, I do remember hearing the words, "Women are to be silent in the church."

Now, fast forward to the present. For some time now (about a year and a half), I have been feeling like God has a plan for me. To make a long story short, I have been feeling a call to vocational ministry.

This is something that I began to talk to my pastors about. I also began praying earnestly that God would reveal His will.

There was a big problem: While I felt the call, something was holding me back. I didn't realize it at the time, but I was never moving forward with the call. I was always standing still and rehashing the same information over and over: God was calling me to vocational ministry and I knew how to pursue it. I just didn't move forward.

Looking at the circumstances, I was "doing the right thing." I felt like God was speaking to me and I sought wise counsel to help discern this call. I found out the steps to take when discerning a call.

Something was holding me back, though.

It wasn't until Tuesday, May 18th that I realized the problem. As I toured the ancient ruins during our week unplugged, I found a key that unlocked the deepest, darkest places of my soul. There, behind cobwebs and loads of dust, I found the reason I couldn't answer my call: Women aren't supposed to do what I've been called by God to do. That was my belief system... tucked snugly away in the depths of my being. I was operating under a belief system that I didn't even realize I had. Does that make any sense?

So, I began to challenge "my beliefs" only to realize they weren't my beliefs at all. These "beliefs" were thoughts that were fed to me early on in life... passed down generation to generation. I believe that because they were a part of me (in my soul - mind), I was afraid to answer the call to vocational ministry.

As I pondered why I felt this way about the role of a woman in the Body of Christ, I opened my Bible to search for Scripture that might help me understand these things I had heard as a child.

Please believe me when I say that I opened my Bible directly to 1 Timothy (not knowing that's where the "women keep silent" stuff is). There on the pages of my Bible were the exact set of verses I needed to read. Chapter 2 stared back at me.

Now, again... you can see that this is a long story... I do apologize... but to try and wrap it up...

This is what I believe after reading the entire context of those Scriptures and researching the time frame/context: 1 Timothy is a letter from Paul who is speaking about uneducated women. Women were not allowed to learn back in that time, so it is understandable why they would not be allowed to teach or preach. No one should just start teaching and preaching something when they don't know what they're talking about.

Okay, again, long story and a whole lot involved here... but, when God opened my eyes to the truths in Scripture, it set me free from the stronghold that was keeping me from moving forward and answering the call.

"There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." Galatians 3:28

When the veil was torn, the liberty bell rang!

And as of Wednesday, May 19th, I was free to explore my call to vocational ministry!!! Sweet Mercy!!!

The stronghold was released!!! I cannot even begin to describe the FREEDOM I felt because you might be here for another hour reading

; )

It was an AWESOME feeling(s)! I felt very educated, for one ; )

I realize that a lot of people will not agree with my revelation, and I also realize that this is a touchy subject for many. Please understand that I do not mean any disrespect to what anyone believes. This is only my opinion and experience.

Thank you for allowing me to share my story with you.

I had no intentions at the beginning of this blog to include this next part, but I am feeling like I should.

There is a way you can partner with me to help me run towards this call with all that I have and all that I am. I am feeling led to attend an equipping conference called "She Speaks." I cannot do it alone. I need your help through prayer and/or monetary donations. Even $5 would help me advance toward the call to vocational ministry. I promise, you will be blessed because of it. I am convinced that God is calling me to this, and I know He blesses His work and those involved in it. He promised it and He does it.

Prayer is the most important part. Please pray for me.

Below, I will provide links so that you can read more. If you feel led to pray and/or give, please know that I cherish your support. If you are not feeling led to help at this time, I still thank God for you and I am thankful that you are reading my blog.

Stop, Drop and Pray for our Breaking Free journey and the women who have concerns.

Tomorrow, we are moving on to Part 4 or what I'd like to call "Reconstruction!" I'm as excited as ever to continue on this journey with you!!!

Blog entries with more details:

http://shellysc.blogspot.com/2010_03_12_archive.html

http://shellysc.blogspot.com/2010/03/shelly-says-he-speaks-will-she-speak.html

http://shellysc.blogspot.com/2010/03/shelly-says-will-you-send-me.html

Website for the conference:

http://www.shespeaksconference.com/

Shelly Says ~ "Be Broken and Beautiful"

2010-06-02T06:55:00.004-04:00

Who taught the sun where to stand in the morning?

Who told the ocean you can only come this far?

Who showed the moon where to hide 'til evening?

Whose words alone can catch a falling star?

The very same God that spins things in orbit,

He runs to the weary, the worn and the weak.

And the same gentle hands that hold me when I'm broken

They conquered death to bring me victory!

Well I know my Redeemer lives.

I know my Redeemer lives.

All of creation testify.

This life within me cries.

I know my Redeemer lives!

Lyrics from one of my very favorite songs:

Redeemer ~ Nicole C. Mullen

That song always makes me tear up. I don't know if I can put my finger on exactly why, but when I really let those words sink into my spirit I realize the power and glory of the Lord. I guess that's enough to bring the tears! : )

The part that really stands out to me today is the 2nd verse which talks about how God, who keeps Creation in orbit, also runs to the brokenhearted to bind up their wounds with His hands. Those very same hands are also the ones that sent His only Son to redeem a fallen world.

If you're able, just take a few moments and let all that sink into your soul.

In Chapter 17, what really touched my heart was reading that God is in the reconstruction business. We know that Christ on Earth was in the construction business. We also know that God the Father and God the Son are one in the same. To me, that means that we're totally covered when it comes to the construction of our being and the reconstruction when things fall apart. 24/7/365 an extreme makeover is available to us. All we have to do is say, "Here I am!" Just be the clay and the Master Potter will create a masterpiece from your brokenness.

As I typed that last line, I was reminded of a beautiful "picture" that is etched in my mind. A couple of weeks ago, I had the privilege of worshipping with some new friends. When we approached the altar to take part in Communion, I noticed that it was decorated beautifully.

An ornate, hand carved, wooden cross was the centerpiece. Around the cross were interwoven grape vines and a peaceful tabletop fountain. Then it caught my eye. There at the foot of the cross was a beautiful little clay pot. At closer inspection, I found out that this was not your usual, decorative clay pot. This one was broken. Now, when I say it was broken, I don't mean that it lay in shattered pieces. Someone had taken the broken vessel and had but it back together to reflect its original form.

You could still see all the cracks where it was once broken, but now it was put back together again. It was whole. That was me at the foot of that cross. Wonderfully created, broken, then put back together.

It was a powerful image.

We all want to be worthy of love and beautiful, but are we willing to let the Master Potter mold us and make us after His will?

Chapter 18 describes Christ as the Redeemer of our broken hearts. I love the image of Christ applying pressure to our broken heart in order to stop the bleeding. What a beautiful picture of grace and mercy.

Like the little clay pot on the alter, take your broken heart to God and lay it at the foot of the cross. Let Him heal you. Let Him put you back together again. Trade in your bondage for a bandage that only He can apply. (*bondage for a bandage is adapted from Beth Moore's words on page 114).

Chapter 19 addresses our childhood hurts, but I think I've done enough talking for one day. ; ) Tomorrow, I will share one of my childhood hurts: One that almost kept me from accepting the call into vocational ministry.

Your sharing does not have to be just from Chapters 17-19. Please feel free to share any personal insight, story, revelation, etc... from Part 3 of our study... or any part for that matter.

I am praising and thanking God for all the wonderful things He has done for you. Break free, child!!! And, don't forget to stop, drop and pray!

Shelly Says ~ "Put On the Full Armor"

2010-06-01T06:26:00.004-04:00

"The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ."

2 Corinthians 10:4-5 (NIV)

Therefore...

"...Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints."

Ephesians 6:10-18 (NIV)

The things that create strongholds in your life and hold you captive don't always come from negative or painful experiences. Take a look at your everyday thoughts.

What do you think about? What thought(s) always causes you to become anxious or depressed? What do you find yourself thinking about the most? Does this person, place, thing or idea take up so much of your time that you don't have time left for God?

He should be your first priority. Even above your family, God should be 1st in your life. Don't let anything come between you and God.

While it may seem that I've gotten off on a little bit of a tangent today, I want you to keep these things in mind as you are "Surveying the Ancient Ruins" in your life.

I encourage you to put on the Full Armor of God every day, but be especially mindful of the importance as you are tackling the topic of ancient ruins.

Please also keep in mind that touring and surveying ancient ruins is often an on-going process in life. Just like the clutter in your home, the more often you tend to it... the easier it is to deal with.

Now, back to our book ; ) ... Breaking Free...

Chapter 16 reminds me of an archaeological dig. The preceding chapters have pointed us to the location/source: Now we must dig and survey the land.

I really like the step by step process Beth Moore describes on pages 101-103. I am excited to see a simple, easy to read/digest "system." It reminds me that God's way is simple and easy. No hard-to-understand messages. No tricks. Just truths.

I also like that she reminds us (on pg. 100) that "you may come from an unusually healthy family and relate very little from personal experience. Perhaps this lesson will help you understand a friend." I point this out to note that not everyone has ancient ruins to explore right now. They may already be dealt with and/or non-existent.

I pray that the message of this study meets you where you are.

I believe God has called you to this study for a reason.

Keep the conversation going. Without belittling or disrespecting anyone, please share what this part of the study has meant to you. Perhaps, you feel led to share some ancient ruins. Perhaps, you have uncovered items that shed light on your past. Perhaps, God is healing your heart and creating a river in the desert. Do share!

To share about my experience on our journey, I'm going to have to muster up a little courage and also figure out how to tell a really long story without taking up too much of your time. I also want to be careful not to tell the story in a way that would shed negativity on any dear soul in my life.

God has created a river in the desert, and I am drinking deeply from the Living Water. I promise to share sometime over the next 2 days... before we move on to the next phase of our journey. For now...

Stop, Drop and Pray

Shelly Says ~ "Take a Break"

2010-05-27T06:45:00.004-04:00

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND!

Due to the responses I've received via e-mail and comments, it is becoming more and more evident that many of us need some more time with Part 3 of our study.

It is usually a difficult thing to look back at your past and survey the places of deep frustration, hurt, and mistakes. It is very important, though, that we do this in a nonjudgmental way so that we may invite forgiveness and healing into our lives. It is also important to recognize the things that keep us in bondage so that we may be set free.

As scheduled, we will take a break from May 28 - May 31. On Tuesday June 1st, we will resume our study; and, June 1 - June 3 will be our final discussion of Chapters 13-22 before continuing on our journey.

Please take time between now and June 3rd to read or reread any portions from Chapters 13-22, answer the study questions, and take a good look at your life.

If you stumble upon a little resistance or frustration, try to push through the pain. If, however, you are meeting extreme resistance and frustration... you may want to seek the help of wise counsel and/or a spiritual director to help you work through the rough spot.

Sometimes, just writing about the problem will help you sort out the pain. Feel free to post anonymous comments to this blog and/or to contact me via e-mail if you just need to let off some steam.

I am praying for you as you continue to survey your past and learn from it. This is usually not an easy thing to, but the rewards are well worth it.

Stop, Drop and Pray for your fellow companions and for yourself. God makes this process so much easier if we depend on Him for help. I suggest prayer as your first line of help.

See you Tuesday!

Shelly Says ~ "Beware"

2010-05-26T06:50:00.007-04:00

"Your enemy the devil prowls around

like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour."

1 Peter 5:8

When I first read that verse (sometime last year), I was scared.

While I know that the devil attacks us, I never thought about him prowling around just looking for an opportunity to attack me. This verse sent chills up my spine. I did not like the idea that my enemy was "waiting in the shadows" (that's how I pictured it) and ready to attack at any time.

The positive outcome of reading that verse is that I became more aware of the devil's schemes. Up until the point that I read that verse for the first time (that I remember), I was unaware that my enemy was THAT determined to get me. I did not realize how shady he really is (pun intended).

I had a realization that it was easy for satan to devour me because I never saw him coming and often times had no idea where some of the attacks I felt were coming from.

I strongly believe that we are more capable and ready to stand firm against the spiritual forces of evil (see Eph. 6:20) when we are aware of the attacks and schemes of the powers of the dark world.

As long as we remain uneducated, it's easier for satan to have a stronghold and much easier for us to place blame on something or someone else.

Take a look back at something you can identify as an attack. At the time, on whom or on what did you cast blame?

* From what I understand, satan is not happy at all that you are taking this Bible study or even simply reading this blog entry. Some of the things going on in your life that are distracting you from doing your reading and answering the questions honestly... or spending time in prayer... and in the Word... could be an attack. Don't get me wrong, I realize that sometimes it's just not the right time; however, do not discount the power of the enemy to persuade you.

Here's help with discernment on that:

If the message of Breaking Free is really resonating with you and you are finding it difficult to keep reading because of the "issues" this is trudging up from your past... it is probably an attack from satan. I imagine he would like nothing more than to see you stay in bondage, and I know that he will put every excuse in the book in front of you to make you believe that you don't have time for this, or you don't need it, or life is just too busy to be spending time reading and then visiting this girl's blog.

If the message really doesn't move you, you're not feeling much "resistance" plus you're reading just because you're a Beth Moore fan... then this may not be the right time for you. Hold onto the book! : ) You may need this message another time. You may be fully aware of the devil's schemes and your own obstacles... please stay! Converse with us so we can glean from you!!!

Here's help with winning the fight:

Call on Jesus

Demons flee when you call on Jesus... the very atmosphere changes.

In the light of God's glory and grace... a lion loses it's courage... and we all know what happens when a lion loses its courage...

it cowers in the shadows and the effectiveness of its roar fades!

HALLELUJAH!!!!

Stop, Drop and Pray

I know some sisters who need covering today

Shelly Says ~ "Fear God"

2010-05-25T05:28:00.003-04:00

As a child growing up in the church, I viewed the 10 Commandments as things I better do if I didn't want to feel God's wrath. While fearing God is biblical, I had a very distorted view of the concept.

I don't remember any specific influential figure passing down these distorted views, but I obviously picked them up from somewhere. Children are sponges for knowledge, and I was no exception.

It wasn't until January 2008, 31 years into my earthly existence, that I started understanding the truth: God established His commandments as a guideline for living life to the fullest. God passed down the 10 Commandments so that I could live a life free of bondage. And, to fear God is to stand in awe of Him and to reverently view Him as being in control of everything.

Sweet liberty!

Those truths began to set me free!

I am praying that this Bible study will unlock the rest of the shackles. There has been progress already!

What about you? What is this Bible study doing for you? Does this message of fearing God in a reverent way and obeying the 10 Commandments for your good speak to you? Were you once like me - thinking the Commandments were for keeping you in bondage and from doing fun things? I'd love to hear from you.

The study questions for this week can be answered by reading Chapter 14, and, in my opinion, don't provoke much thought regarding your personal life. Was there anything in the reading that spoke to you and/or unlocked some shackles?

I encourage you to offer your broken life to God so He can rebuild your ancient ruins. If you would like more information on how to do this or have any questions, please feel free to e-mail me by clicking on "view my complete profile" (at the bottom of the green box on the right), then click "e-mail."

May God bless you today as you offer your body as a holy, pleasing, living sacrifice to God (paraphrased from Romans 12:1 NIV).

Stop, Drop and Pray

Shelly Says ~ "Clean out the Closet"

2010-05-24T07:16:00.006-04:00

Have you ever been caught off guard by an unexpected visit? I'm talking about the kind that sent you running around the house, cleaning up all the little messes as fast as you could. Maybe you didn't have time to run the vacuum or wash all the dirty dishes, but somehow you were able to make the place look rather presentable and welcoming.

Has this ever happened to you?

Unless you're a Martha (either of the Stewart name or of Bethany fame), I am guessing you know what I'm talking about. Even if you are a Martha, I bet it has happened a time or two. ; )

My favorite tactic for speed cleaning is stuffing any extraneous items in the closet. What's yours?

In the same way our physical clutter gets stuffed into the closets of our homes, our spiritual clutter finds its way into the closets of our hearts.

When you run into a friend at Target, do you grab the bitterness that is showing on your face over a fight with your loved one and hide it in the depths of your spirit?

When you run into your pastor at the grocery store on aisle 9, do you automatically hide the discontent you were just showing your kids on aisle 4? Chances are, discontent found itself behind a closed door at the sight of your earthly Shepherd.

Now, don't get me wrong. I don't think there's anything wrong with setting your feelings aside for the sake of a pleasant conversation; however, the problem remains in the closet of your heart and needs to be dealt with at some point.

If you continue to stuff your feelings inside the closets of your heart, pretty soon there will be no room left and we all know what happens when the junk flows out of the closets and clutters up the place... there is an overflow that causes major congestion. We then tend to blow up and all the stored up, stuffed in emotions come bursting out of our closets (or chest).

Often times this leads to the "ugly cry." You know the one I'm talking about. You are so distraught and so disheveled that you can't even make coherent words between sobs because everything is just too overwhelming. Other times, the emotions come out in one big fight you later regret.

The emotions do come out... eventually.

What would happen if you dealt with your emotions on a daily basis? Better yet, what would happen if you tended to them the moment they surfaced?

In Chapter 13, you may have discovered some feelings you didn't even know existed. I hope you took the time to search the depths of your heart. I hope you found the ancient ruins of your past and drug them out of the closet... into the light... so you could put them in their place.

We all need to clean out our closets.

Isn't it always easier when we don't let them get out of hand?

Stop, Drop and Pray for the hearts of the people you care about. I hope you'll be happy to know that there is already an answered prayer on our list!

Shelly Says ~ "Welcome Back!"

2010-05-23T08:13:00.005-04:00

After a week of being unplugged, I am eager to discuss our ancient ruins and broken hearts. I hope you are ready as well.

I believe this step is crucial to breaking free. Without knowing why we are the way we are, it is difficult to understand our lives and to conform into who we want to be.

As much as I'd like to jump right into the discussion, I feel the need to allow you a moment to catch up if you are a few paces behind the pack. ; )

Please take the time today to read any parts of Chapters 13-22 that you have not read. You may also use this time to review.

Tomorrow, we will begin our discussion with Chapter 13! I can hardly wait to hear from you!

Stop, Drop and Pray

Shelly Says ~ "Unplug"

2010-05-16T07:21:00.004-04:00

Hello fellow companions and visitors,

This week (5/16-5/22) I encourage you to unplug (click on the bold word for more info) as much as possible and really open yourself up to allow God access to your spirit and soul.

Isaiah 35:5

Psalm 139

1 Thess 5:23

Allow Him to move in your life like you've never seen before.

Spend time in prayer, in His Word, and in His presence (pray, read the Bible and enjoy growing close to Him).

Spend as much time as you can this week totally unplugged from all the electronic devices that constantly demand your time.

Even 5 minutes is a blessing!

Stop, Drop and Pray

I'll connect with you again on the 23rd when we will begin discussing the benefits of being unplugged and letting God have access to our whole being!

Many prayers for a blessed week,

Shelly Says ~ "I Am Yours"

2010-05-15T05:07:00.006-04:00

I believe legalism is a problem for many reasons and one that really stands out to me is ignorance.

Before I continue, please understand that there is a difference between stupidity and ignorance.

The ignorant legalist is unaware or has forgotten that nothing can save them but the blood of Christ. They think that good works are the key to salvation. Somehow, they have either misunderstood, forgotten or don't know that salvation is in Christ alone. They think or fall into the type of thinking that suggests the more committees they're on... the better their chances of getting into heaven one day. They think the ticket through the pearly gates comes when they are nice to other people or do good things for them.

I believe that we often get so wrapped up in life and in serving others that we lose sight of our true identity. It's a mistake that deeply affects our soul, body and spirit... our self as a whole.

You get to go to heaven because you accept Christ as your personal Lord and Saviour... period.

You will go to heaven because of who you are (a Child of God) not because of what you've done.

I hang on to the lyrics of one of my favorite Casting Crown songs, Who Am I?

Not because of who I am but because of what You've done.

Not because of what I've done but because of who You are.

Stop, Drop and Pray

* Remember that tomorrow starts our week of "unplugged" study. Check your e-mail for more details.

Shelly Says ~ "Something Happens"

2010-05-14T07:03:00.005-04:00

I love it when this happens: I ask a question (to God) regarding something that is currently happening or relating to some Bible study or book I'm reading and... BAM... in His time He provides the answer in a surprising way!

This happened yesterday, and I got the answer very quickly.

In the middle of the day, I felt the urge to review some of our material from previous Breaking Free Chapters. I resisted at first - thinking I've spent enough time on that today. ; ) As I sat down to read, Chapter 6 (To Experience God's Peace) really jumped out at me. So, I began reading it again.

Several things spoke to me, but I was left with these questions: What is the key? What unlocks this peace that is inside of us? How do I activate it?

While the answers seem simple... Jesus... I felt that there was more.

Then, as I decided to step away from the book and let those questions linger, I got a strong urge to keep reading. But, instead of reviewing the next chapter, I felt that moving on ahead to today's reading would be the right thing to do.

Now, mind you, I have been keeping up right along with the rest of you... doing the assigned reading on the assigned day; however, I felt the urge to read ahead on Chapter 11 yesterday.

The 2nd line of Chapter 11 gave me the answer to the questions I'd asked: "The key to peace is authority - peace is the fruit of an obedient, righteous life," says Beth Moore.

Wow! Ask and ye shall receive! : ) Praise God!

While we relish in the power and glory of the Lord, let's move on and discuss Chapter 11.

Prayerlessness is an obstacle. So, it seems the key to overcoming this is to develop a life of prayer. Right?

One of my favorite lines from this Chapter is - "The Spirit of God is released through our prayers" (paraphrased from the bottom of pg. 73). That's really powerful! I've never thought of my prayers that way.

What spoke to you? What hit home? What sentence, phrase or idea evoked questions? Did you ask God about them? Are you keeping the eyes and ears of your heart open to receive the answers? How did you answer the study questions?

Today of all days ; ) don't forget to Stop, Drop and Pray.

"The Lord will give strength to His people; The Lord will bless His people with peace." Psalm 29:11 (NASB)

*** That is the preprinted Scripture on the journal page on which I wrote my thoughts yesterday : )

Shelly Says ~ "It Might Not Be What You Think"

2010-05-13T07:29:00.003-04:00

It used to be that when I would think of idols, I would think only of the tangible kind: Think the hand-carved "immunity idol" on the show Survivor or the ones made by the Israelites in Numbers 33:51-53.

Over the last few years, my eyes were opened to the not-so-tangible kind... the ones that are much harder to spot... the ones that are readily available at any time and have been carved into our lives over a period of time.

Before I go on, please let me state my understanding of idols. An idol, as I understand it, is anything that takes the place of God in our lives. It's the persons, places or things in which we find satisfaction... in place of God. We end up worshipping these things because we give glory and honor to ___________ instead of God for the satisfaction in our lives.

We can even slip into idolatry. I say slip because I believe it's just that at times... a slip up if you will... but oh so quick that we might not even notice such a "minor thing".

You might think that TV is not an idol for you but then you catch yourself becoming unhappy and unsatisfied if you don't get to watch your favorite show. Now, I don't mean disappointed here. I mean mad. Have you ever been downright mad when you didn't get to watch a show on TV? You may be depending on that TV show to make you happy and fulfilled. Often times a TV show fills that empty space for 30 minutes or an hour. The true satisfaction you get from God comes from a place far deeper than a shallow show.

Please let me say... I don't believe there's anything wrong with using TV shows for what they were intended... to entertain; however, when it becomes a lifeline for you... there could be a problem.

Here's a big one... money. Money in itself can be good. But, when you look to money for your happiness and satisfaction, it becomes an idol. Buying most anything provides for some happiness and satisfaction (don't get me wrong here) but when your happiness and satisfaction depend on what you can afford... there could be a problem. I don't think there's anything wrong with buying a fancy new car or fabulous diamonds, but when you look to those things for happiness and security and to be satisfied... you are often not looking to God for what only He can provide.

We were created with a longing that can only be filled by God.

When we look to earthy things to fill that void, ironically we will be left empty.

Stop, Drop and Pray

Shelly Says ~ "Walk Humbly"

2010-05-12T07:42:00.003-04:00

Today, as I read Chapter 9 of Breaking Free, the phrase "walk humbly with your God" kept popping into my mind. I could not shake those words, so I looked them up when I got downstairs to the computer.

They are words from the Bible and found in Micah 6:8. This is the NKJV version:

"He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the LORD require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?"

I also like this version of Micah 6:8 from The Message:

"But he's already made it plain how to live, what to do, what God is looking for in men and women. It's quite simple: Do what is fair and just to your neighbor, be compassionate and loyal in your love, and don't take yourself too seriously — take God seriously."

I have to admit, when I hear the word "humble" I often don't have a solid definition or picture of what that means. So, I looked that up as well. According to dictionary.com: When used as a verb with an object, it means "to destroy the independence, power, or will of."

Wow, that really shook things up! So, in the case that humble is the verb and I am the object, I'm supposed to destroy my independence and power and selfish will.

Here's how a sentence using that definition might look...

Shelly needs to be humble.

Here's the sentence I'd like to replace that one with...

Shelly walks humbly with her God.

Please Stop, Drop and Pray for me as well as your fellow companions. I know I'm gonna need some help rolling this boulder off of my path!

Shelly Says ~ "Believe God"

2010-05-11T07:04:00.003-04:00

He is true.

He is right.

He is waiting for us not just to believe in Him but believe Him: Believe His Word.

I believe that in order to believe God (not just believe in Him), we have to read His word and then live like we believe it. We have to experience God.

Here's an example: Growing up, I believed in my parents. I believed in the fact that they had authority over me and were in charge of my upbringing. I believed in the promise they made to protect and help me through life. I also believed in the fact that they would punish me for disobedience.

It's one thing to know and/or hear that these things are so. It's a whole other to actually see them happen.

It was my experiences with my parents that caused me to actually believe what they said. They showed me love as they cared for and nurtured me. I believed they loved me. When I disobeyed, I was punished. The actual occurrences in which I experienced the punishments caused me to believe them when they said I was going to get a spanking.

I think our relationship with God is very similar.

It's often easy to believe in God when we simply obtain head knowledge of Him.

It's often hard to believe God if we don't experience Him and know in our hearts that He is who He says He is.

You might know in your head (believe in) that Jesus came to set the captives free, but you might not believe Him until you allow Him to set you free.

Will you give Him access to you heart? Will you surrender so you can be set free?

Here's a prayer that may help as you Stop, Drop and Pray today. It's from Psalm 139:

Search me, O God, and know my heart;

Try me and know my anxious thoughts;

And see if there be any hurtful way in me,

And lead me in the everlasting way

Shelly Says ~ "He is Here"

2010-05-10T07:05:00.005-04:00

God tells us over and over, in His Word, that He will never leave us nor forsake us; yet, we often are left wondering...

Where are you, God?

I can't tell you how many times I've asked that question during trials in my life. It's easy for me to see God when things are joyful and "good," but I sometimes think He has gone somewhere else... to bring joy to someone else... when things are tough and "bad."

Few things are farther from the truth.

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." Psalm 46:1 (KJV)

He NEVER leaves us. If the going is good, He's there. When the going gets tough, He's there.

Right now, God is here. He's here to heal your heart, bind up your wounds, deliver you from captivity, and rescue you from the dark places in which you live. And, He will do so much more!

All you have to do is go to Him and admit your weakness. In your weakness, He is strong (see 2 Corinthians 12:9-10).

Yesterday, I was very weak. In the midst of my weakness, I cried out to God... my healer, my refuge, my tower, my strength. I was strongly reminded that God was with me as Britt Nicole's "Walk on the Water" came blaring over the radio (I already had the volume turned way up in a praise session to God). It just so happens that everything I had been thinking negatively was "answered" by those lyrics.

When I took a step out of my circumstances and cried out to God, He let me know that He is ALWAYS there... sometimes I'm the one who needs to show up... on my knees... and admit my weaknesses to Him. Do you?

Stop, Drop and Pray

We have looked at the benefits of breaking free over the last 5 days. Now, we are moving on to explore the obstacles that keep us from the life God intends for us.

I am enjoying every minute of our journey and hope you are, too!

Shelly Says ~ "Peace Be With You "

2010-05-09T06:37:00.003-04:00

The biggest thing I took away from our study today is that peace is a fruit of the spirit.

While I am familiar with Galatians 5:22-23, I often forget that peace is in that list.

When you and I received the Holy Spirit into our hearts, we received a very precious gift.

Peace dwells within us... even though we don't often feel such tranquility.

Check out my blog post for April 13th.

Stop, Drop and Pray

I wish you a peaceful day.

Shelly Says ~ "Thirsty For More"

2010-05-08T04:43:00.003-04:00

"For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?" Matthew 16:26 (ESV)

Today's message really hit home. I am a recovering workaholic: One who works too much because she finds her worth in her work and won't stop til she is fulfilled (definition mine).

Check out my March 17th blog post.

Search for satisfaction in the only One who can fulfill your soul's deepest desires.

Stop Drop and Pray... then share what meant the most to you in your quest to break free today.

Shelly Says ~ "Glory to God"

2010-05-07T06:10:00.007-04:00

It's so easy to accept thanks and accolades for your good deeds. But, when is praise a problem?

Before I carry on, please let me say that I don't believe there's anything wrong with accepting thanks and praise for a job well done as well as rewards for your efforts.

I believe that the problem isn't in accepting the praise; however, it's in accepting the glory.

Graciously receiving praise is one thing. Taking the glory for it is a whole other story.

You are allowed to do the things you do because the God of the Universe has mercy on you and showers you with grace. You are His Beloved and He wants to see you succeed and live a happy life. All He asks is that you give credit where credit is due. He deserves the credit and glory for every good thing in your life.

Have you ever heard the song "Blessed Be Your Name?" In that song, the listener is encouraged to praise God for every blessing. In a bountiful garden, in a desolate desert, even if you don't feel like dancin' and shoutin'... no matter your circumstances, there is always room to praise, bless and glorify God!

At every moment of every day, there is something to praise God about and give Him the glory for the awesome things He has done! When you praise and thank God for what He has done... you are glorifying His name. When you receive praise and accolades, you turn back and praise God for that. That's how He gets the glory. When "you" accomplish something grand (for some of us, that could have been just getting out of bed this morning : ) ... turn back and praise God! Give Him the glory for the great things He hath done!!!

By the power, grace and mercy of God you make it through your day and accomplish the things you do. It's not on your own power.

Give glory where glory is due... to God!

Stop, Drop and Pray for your fellow companions. While you're at it, tell God why He is so wonderful and glorify Him.

I just love how Beth Moore is taking each benefit and obstacle one by one... day by day in our Breaking Free journey. I pray that you can camp out on each lesson, each day. Concentrate on one item at a time.

Today, spend a whole lotta time sending the glory heavenward as you remember the wonderful things He has done and is doing in your life. While you're praying, give Him a little glory for what He's gonna do, too!

As you make a habit of glorifying Him, I have no doubt that He will reveal His glory to you more and more and your relationship with Him will grow more deeply.

Shelly Says ~ "Yadha Yadha "

2010-05-06T07:08:00.011-04:00

I just about fell over this morning when I read, in Chapter 3, that "Yadha" is Hebrew for "know."

At the risk of sounding like a know-it-all: I already know this because I'm currently reading a series of books titled The Yada Yada Prayer Group. In one of the books, a character explains that very definition.

It's very interesting to me that this would show up twice in two weeks because my very favorite Bible verse is Psalm 46:10, "Be still and know that I am God...". Well, I FINALLY got the the "be still" part down (it's rather easy to do when you're sick) and very recently felt like God was telling me that I was ready for the next step... "and know that I am God."

That didn't hit me until I read our homework assignment this morning (Chapter 3)! "Okay, God, I think I'm ready!!!" Shelly says.

: )

You see, in a nutshell, I have a very active, busy body. Until last year, "no" wasn't really part of my vocabulary. In April 2008, God showed me Psalm 46:10 and He began to help me "be still." That's another story for another time.

For now, I want to hear from you:

Are you already recognizing the symptoms of captivity in your life?

How did you answer the study questions?

How are you doing with the Scripture memorization?

It's one thing to know Scripture and to hear what God has done for you; however, it's a whole other thing to actually believe it in your heart.

Stop, Drop and Pray

I don't know about you, but I was RELIEVED when I read that the Scripture memory will get easier. I imagine there were a few sighs of relief out there after hearing from so many of you that the memorization is challenging.

If you are on the mailing list, I will send you some suggestions for learning Scripture. I found them in the Bible Study that changed my life. They help me immensely! If you are not on the mailing list but are interested... just send me an e-mail (photogssc@yahoo.com) with Breaking Free Scripture in the title.

You don't have to memorize this one ; ) but I do want to leave you with a blessing from 2 Thessalonians 3:5 (TLB) today:

"May the Lord bring you into an ever deeper understanding of the love of God and of the patience that comes from Christ."

Shelly Says ~ "I See Jesus in Isaiah 61"

2010-05-05T06:39:00.010-04:00

Isaiah 61:1-2 (NIV), "The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn..."

Jesus echoes that statement in Luke 4:18-19.

"Jesus arrived from Nazareth, anointed by God with the Holy Spirit, ready for action. He went through the country helping people and healing everyone who was beaten down by the Devil. He was able to do all this because God was with him." Acts 10:37-38 (MSG)

Isaiah 61:3 (NIV), "...and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendor."

Jesus says in Luke 12:28 CEV, "God gives such beauty to everything that grows in the fields, even though it is here today and thrown into a fire tomorrow. Won't he do even more for you? You have such little faith!"

Jesus reminds us that beauty can arise out of the ashes of our circumstances if we... what?... Have Faith. Believe. Be still and know.

Jesus is God's Chosen One, sent to purify and renew the world (as explained in The Essential Study Bible CEV). In Hebrews 1:9 NAS,God is speaking of His Son. I believe God is waiting to anoint you, too. I cling to the King James Version of Psalm 23 because that's how I memorized it back in the day: "Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over." The runneth over of the cup denotes gladness, to me. On me, please poureth!

Jesus, full of joy, turns back to praise God in Luke 10:21. We, too, will exude a spirit of praise when we are covered with the Holy Spirit! Despair evaporates in the Light of His Glory and Grace!

Jesus, no doubt, produced the fruit of the Spirit all throughout His ministry. He set an example for us to follow.

Isaiah 61:4 (NIV), "...They will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastated; they will renew the ruined cities that have been devastated for generations."

Jesus died a cruel death on a cross so the ancient ruins of your past and the desolate places in your life could be restored.

All you do have to do is accept the free gift.

Trade in your sorrows for the joy of the Lord!

Shelly Says ~ "We're Off To See the King!"

2010-05-04T06:59:00.013-04:00

The wonderful King of the Universe!

How often do you remind yourself that, as a Christian, you're on a journey from earth into eternity?

Psalm 84:5 says, "Happy are the people whose strength is in You, whose hearts are set on pilgrimage."

Are you happy? Is your heart set on pilgrimage?

As a child, I once heard that heaven has streets of gold. I think that's in a song I heard at an early age. As that image came to mind this morning when I read Psalm 84:5, I thought about how our journey together is much like the movie The Wizard of Oz. In the movie, Dorothy and her new friends are companions on a journey seeking that which is lost by gravitating toward The Great Wizard of Oz: We are companions on a journey seeking that which is lost by gravitating towards The One who died for the lost.

Do you feel like you've lost your mind? Have you lost heart in areas of your life formerly fueled with passion? Have you lost courage in the face of fear? Have you lost your way and are looking for the road that leads home?

Then let's keep up the pace! We're off to see the King of the Universe and He will restore us. He will make us whole again. He promises transformation by the renewal of the mind (Romans 12:2). He promises that we will find Him when we seek Him with all our heart (Jeremiah 29:13). He promises us that He will be with us and we do not have to be afraid (Deuteronomy 31:6). He promises to be our Tower of Refuge and strength... a shelter no matter our circumstances... our home base (Isaiah 4:6).

I could sing of His love forever!

Your former life may have seemed like a black and white nightmare: But when you became a Christian, I hope you felt like your world became alive with living color for the first time. I can just see you setting your cute ruby red slippers (or comfy flip-flops if such is the case) on that first gold brick and beginning a journey to see your Saviour. {smile}

Have there been many trials and tribulations along the way? Have you made new friends and learned of their plights as well? It's all par for the journey, dear friend. It's called life on Earth. Thank God for friends!

The good news is, our life doesn't end here. Christ died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again! O' Happy Day!

What grabbed your attention today in the reading of Chapter 1? How did you answer your study questions? I am excited to hear from you today. Don't forget to Stop, Drop and Pray today. Add your requests as well.

Keep your eye on the prize, Sweet Princess of the One True High King and watch out for flying monkeys!

Shelly Says ~ "Our Journey Begins!"

2010-05-03T06:49:00.008-04:00

I thought this day might never come! It's the first official day of our Breaking Free Journey!

Whether you've signed up to follow along with the book or you just want to read the blog posts each day, I believe God will do amazing and wonderful things in and through you as you yield to Him and yearn to break free from that which binds you.

I have been praying for each and everyone of you and I'm SO excited that you are joining me on this journey to freedom! Grab your Bible, Breaking Free book, journal, water bottle (or coffee ; ) and a snack (or breakfast ; ).

Let's GO!

I first read the preface and introduction of Breaking Free on March 24th of this year at the Flying Biscuit Cafe in Charlotte, NC. I knew I needed to break free from something that was still holding me back, and I knew I had just the right bible study to help me discover freedom in Christ. I was ready to begin the journey alone when I felt God speaking to me about inviting other women to join me.

What? I could do this on my own; however, God had a different plan (see 3/25 blog post for more of the story).

If you have been following my blog and/or in recent contact with me, then you know I wanted this bible study to begin on April 19th. I had "the perfect plan" laid out for how I would study each section. I wanted the study to perfectly coincide with the personal retreat I felt led to attend in Mid-May. I was jumping the gun to get the ball rolling when I felt the tug to include others. When I obediently followed the tug, I expected 2 or 3 of my closest friends to join in and begin with me on April 19th. That was cool with me... I like small groups.

Wonderful plan, right? Not! Look more closely (if you haven't figured it out). There's a glitch (to the tenth power ; ) in the plan.

I this... I that... Me, Myself and I

While I did feel led to begin this study, I don't believe God led me to do all the planning. He already had the plan: All He asked me to do was facilitate (to know me is to know that I like to plan, so it's no big surprise that I jumped right to this task).

God let me do the planning for a while, and I imagine that He was amused by my efforts. Then, things started changing.

Some of you wrote to tell me that you were interested but couldn't get the book quickly enough or were concerned that your book wouldn't arrive in time. THANK YOU for writing! Those e-mails made me stop and question my "perfect plan" and forced me to look up and seek God's Perfect Plan for our study.

After a lot of prayer and thought, I felt like May 3rd would be a good start date. I kept questioning God... asking Him if we could move it up to maybe April 26th or the 29th... May 3rd seemed so far away.

Long story shorter, May 3rd stuck and here we are!

I can already see the good in God's Perfect Plan.

As I sat down to pray over the schedule for this study, I felt that it was important to spend extra time on Parts 1, 2 plus extra special attention to Part 3. As I laid out the schedule on the calendar, I saw a perfect fit! The part I felt led to spend the most time on fell right in line with my pre-scheduled personal retreat! Even the break I intended to take afterwards falls right in line with Memorial Day AND the study ends the Friday before the 1st July 4th holiday week!!!

It's amazing what God can do when I set aside MY agenda, get still and trust Him!

Here's another cool thing: I have a beautiful journal that has pre-printed Scripture on each page. On the page where I started writing the above story, there is an appropriate Bible verse...

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28 NIV

How true! How poetic! That God!

He is working for your good as well. He has gone before you, preparing this journey just for you. He has called you to this journey, and He won't leave you at the beginning to set out on your own. He will be with you all the way through and beyond. He has prosperous, perfect plans for your future (see Jeremiah 29:11).

I really like how Beth Moore explains that our journey will be a process. Things may not click right away, but be patient. With any process there is a multitude of feelings and experiences. I don't expect our journey to be any different.

So, let's press on... toward the goal for the prize that awaits us... FREEDOM!

Keep your eyes forward, on the prize, and don't stop to look back unless you hear a sister calling for help. She may have fallen and can't get up ; ) .

What spoke to you most in the preface and introduction?

Do you see yourself in any of the lessons that Beth describes?

What lesson do you think you need the most? The least?

What did you want to underline or highlight but were afraid to for fear that someone might pick up your book and find out too much about you?

What lesson do you think you need the most? The least?

What are your answers to the study questions in the back of the book?

Feel free to answer any of the questions above in the comments section below. You are also welcome to comment on anything, anytime. Don't forget about our prayer requests. Stop, Drop and Pray.

I look forward to the journey ahead! Let's BREAK FREE!!!!!!!!!

Shelly Says ~ "Stop, Drop and Pray"

2010-05-03T06:28:00.017-04:00

There is so much power in prayer.

This is an ongoing list of requests. Feel free to visit often, add requests in the comments section, and pray often.

I will Stop, Drop and Pray for you.

Shelly Says ~ "I Have Heard You Calling"

2010-04-19T08:15:00.008-04:00

And, yes, it was "in the night!"

Frequently, I wake up in the middle of the night (well, technically very early morning) and feel like God wants to spend time with me. Lately, I have not had that feeling as often.

There are times I get up and go to our upper room (room set aside for sacred time with God) and pray and spend time with God: There are other times I just shut my eyes and pray that I fall back asleep.

This morning, at 3:42am, I woke up and I was wide awake. I didn't feel that there was any way I'd be going back to sleep any time soon.

I felt like God wanted to spend time with me.

I felt like I didn't want to get up.

I felt like God had something to say to me.

I felt like I wanted Him to wait and tell me later.

I felt God gently wooing me to a still, quiet place.

I felt I had not had enough beauty sleep to go there.

Then, I felt a song enter my spirit...

"Yes, Lord yes, to your will and to your way. Yes, Lord yes, I will trust you and obey. When your spirit speaks to me, with my whole heart I'll agree. And, my answer will be yes, Lord, yes!"

I have not thought or heard about that song in I can't tell you how long.

I was raised from the bed!

Okay, not literally raised... but I did rise on my own will! : )

I could not deny the gentle, sweet Spirit of God. I could not bear to be disobedient and miss the blessing.

* I'm not always the sweet little angel mentioned above. ; ) There have been PLENTY of times that I disobeyed and bore the pain and inconvenience associated with such rebellion.

Anyway, I obeyed this time and God had a sweet surprise waiting for me in the upper room.

Tucked away in a corner all our own at 4ish am (I did manage to snag water, a banana and a bathroom break... plus there was all that arguing that I did), God and I had and early breakfast together.

I bet you can't guess the topics I found in the devotional, bible study book and book my pastor friend loaned me. They're all unrelated in title and physical place from which they came. I was drawn to all 3 of them separately, but they each had the same message...

TRUST AND OBEDIENCE

***

The story continues on our journey!

Stay connected for more info on our Breaking Free Bible Study which starts May 3rd! See past posts for more information or contact me via e-mail at photogssc@yahoo.com