"Now Joseph was a very handsome and well-built young man. And about this time, Potiphar's wife began to desire him and invited him to sleep with her. But Joseph refused." Genesis 39:6b-8a NLT
OH - MY - GOODNESS! This chapter made me blush! Potiphar's wife is what we would call a 'cougar' and Joseph, a tasty little morsel who caught her eye! And poor, neglected Mitzi of the fictional tale - I sympathized with her situation and hoped she wouldn't go through with it; I was actually shouting at her in my head. But once she decided to lie to her husband & blame Joe, she lost my support.
Oh, the pickle Joseph found himself in is still a staple of modern soap operas, TV dramas, and steamy novels (or so I've been told). Honestly, I prefer murder mysteries & sci-fi :) But, one can gather the general plot just by watching commercials. And this scenario has made more than a few appearances in murder mysteries, as you can imagine.
The story of this "bad to the bone", nameless woman is here to teach us some important lessons. Read carefully and be sure to 'think in ink' as you go.
I find it amazing how short the story is in the Bible, covering only 23 verses including back story and consequences. The actual seduction is told in only 10 verses, but apparently happened over a long-ish (yep, I'm making up words) period of time. There is a lot of inference on our author's part (and everyone who has written commentary on it) as to the motives, states of mind, and settings. As long as we don't add to God's word, I think it's okay in order to make the people more real, easier to relate to, and aid in teaching us valuable lessons we can apply to our own lives.
Fleshing out (pun intended) the characters, their circumstances and their thoughts, helps us to see how this ancient story translates into 21st Century life.
Have you ever:
* been too busy for your 'home life' or those who love you?
* felt neglected, overlooked, taken for granted?
* been tempted by something that looked or felt good? (sounds familiar, Eve)
* been put in an awkward situation or accused of something you didn't do?
* sought revenge or been the recipient of someone else's vengeance?
* shifted the blame to others for your missteps? (Eve & Adam started something with that one!)
Your experiences may not be as bold as those of our fiction & Biblical stories, but maybe there is a subtle connection to your life.
After you're finished reading, flip to the back of the book and do the Chapter Two Study guide questions. I'll be back on Thursday with some more thoughts on Potiphar's Wife.
Now that you know my reaction to this chapter, will you share your thoughts? Clicking here will take you to the blog where you can post your reaction in the Comment section. I can't wait to read it!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Monday, January 12, 2015
Tuesday, January 6, 2015
Thinking about Eve
"All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It straightens us out and teaches us to do what is right. It is God's way of preparing us in every way, fully equipped for every good thing God wants us to do." 2 Timothy 3:16-17
I hope you are enjoying both the fictional story of Evie and the Biblical analysis of Eve! I have to admit, Evie captivated me. I totally identified with her when she was surprised at how she arrived at the forbidden gazebo. More often than I can count, I have been in her shoes. I've gotten to a place, (emotionally, physically, mentally, spiritually) and wondered, "How did I get here?" Without realizing it, I had wandered down a path I had hoped to never trod.
Our opening Scripture is exactly why we study God's Word! It is literally an instruction book for living. We can learn something, even from 'bad girls'. Let's see what we can learn together!
After reading the chapter, I took a look at the Study Guide in the back of the book and the questions in the Workbook (you do not need the workbook). The workbook has great questions and lots of Scripture to add to our understanding, but it's quite extensive. The Study Guide has a lot fewer questions & Scripture, but leaves out a few of my favorite points.
So, regardless of which book you have, I'd like to give you some things to think about as you read or after you read "All About Evie". Grab you pen & journal and think in ink!
These questions are paraphrased from Bad Girls of the Bible workbook, by Liz Curtis Higgs.
Have you ever walked into a trap of doubting God's Word in your own heart (because of what someone else has said) or feeling ill-equipped when you're face to face with someone else who does?
Ms. Higgs gives us a few verses that tell us about God's Word and how we should handle it.
Read Proverbs 30: 5-6, Luke 11:28, and 2 Timothy 3: 16-17. How do these verses help us when we find ourselves getting tangled up in a discussion about God's Word?
Eve's eyes, her physical eyes and her metaphorical eyes, led her astray. "The woman was convinced. The fruit looked so fresh and delicious, and it would make her so wise!" Genesis 3: 6a, NLT. Can you relate? How have your eyes led you down a rocky road? In this group of questions, the author asks us to re-write a few passages to make them more personal. We've done this before and it's one of my favorite ways to connect Scripture to my life. Liz asks us to re-write each statement with "I will..."
Psalm 119:10
Hebrews 10:25
2 Timothy 2:22
2 Timothy 2:23
Colossians 3:2
Colossians 3:5
Colossians 3:8
Now choose one to put into action today! Underline it, highlight it, *star it*, write it on sticky notes to put on your mirror, in your car, and on your computer. Write down one specific way you will put this into action. Will you share your action Scripture with us in the Comments? I'd love to hear from you and support you on your journey.
These are just a few points to consider; there are many others!
Other issues to examine include Eve's (& our):
* desire to "do it ourselves", be in control of our lives, be like God;
* resisting, or not, the urge to sin;
* leading others to sin;
* coving up our sin; and
* shifting blame for our mistakes.
What can we learn from Eve on these points?
I look forward to reading your Comments and discussing "the mother of all bad girls", Eve!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Monday, January 5, 2015
"Bad Girls of the Bible": Eve
"And the Lord God said, 'It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a companion who will help him.... But still there was no companion suitable for him. So the Lord God caused Adam to fall into a deep sleep. He took one of Adam's ribs and closed up the place from which he had taken it. Then the Lord God made a woman from the rib and brought her to Adam." Genesis 2:18, 20b-22 NLT
Merry Christmas, on this 11th day of Christmas! Happy New Year, too!! I pray that 2015 is a year filled with grace, peace, renewed hope, and above all, love.
Now that the gifts have been opened, the garlands & ornaments lovingly stowed away until December, and the revolving door of visitors and visiting has slowed, it's a perfect time to quiet our lives and reflect.
I am so very excited to start our new book, Bad Girls of the Bible, and What We Can Learn From Them, by Liz Curtis Higgs.
Note: this is the first of the Bad Girl series. There have been two publications, so the covers may differ depending on which publication you have, but either one is fine for our group. Also, there is a companion workbook. You do not need the workbook, just the book.
I am reading this book for the first time right along with you! Most of our books I have already read, but this one came so highly recommended (thank you, Paula) and had only positive reviews on-line, I decided to take the plunge. Right from the start, I was not disappointed - she opens the introduction with one of my most favorite lines from Longfellow, "And when she was good she was very, very good, But when she was bad she was horrid." I'm not sure what that says about me, but I just love it! I guess it's my inner (and often outward) struggle between my bad girl & my good girl!
We will start right in with the first chapter on Friday, January 9th. Give yourself permission to take time out of your week to read the Introduction and Chapter 1 "All About Evie". It's important to read the introduction, to understand the author's writing style (funny, compelling) and why she chose to write her book with both fictional & Biblical stories; she also shares a few startling facts about her personal life.
If you have the Revised Edition (teal & yellow-orange cover), there is a study guide in the back of the book, starting on page 245. I'm not sure if it's in the original (purple) edition or the e-book edition. These questions & our discussions is where faith is deepened. As we read, explore, and see ourselves through Scripture-colored lenses, we draw ever closer to becoming the women God designed us to be. We renew our soul and open our hearts & minds to what the Lord has to show us. Believe it or not, we have more in common with these women who lived centuries ago, than we might have first thought.
You have worked hard these last few months, making the holidays bright for family and friends. Take some time to recharge your soul by diving into the pages of Bad Girls of the Bible. You won't be disappointed!
I'll be back here on Wednesday, to give you some 'things to think about' from the Study Guide.
Do you know someone who might be interested in reading about these bad girls? Please pass this on to them and, if you attend our live group, bring them along! Regardless of where you are along your journey (still questioning, just starting out, or have blisters from walking this path for a long time) you are welcome here!
Happy Reading!!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul, and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Merry Christmas, on this 11th day of Christmas! Happy New Year, too!! I pray that 2015 is a year filled with grace, peace, renewed hope, and above all, love.
Now that the gifts have been opened, the garlands & ornaments lovingly stowed away until December, and the revolving door of visitors and visiting has slowed, it's a perfect time to quiet our lives and reflect.
I am so very excited to start our new book, Bad Girls of the Bible, and What We Can Learn From Them, by Liz Curtis Higgs.
Note: this is the first of the Bad Girl series. There have been two publications, so the covers may differ depending on which publication you have, but either one is fine for our group. Also, there is a companion workbook. You do not need the workbook, just the book.
I am reading this book for the first time right along with you! Most of our books I have already read, but this one came so highly recommended (thank you, Paula) and had only positive reviews on-line, I decided to take the plunge. Right from the start, I was not disappointed - she opens the introduction with one of my most favorite lines from Longfellow, "And when she was good she was very, very good, But when she was bad she was horrid." I'm not sure what that says about me, but I just love it! I guess it's my inner (and often outward) struggle between my bad girl & my good girl!
We will start right in with the first chapter on Friday, January 9th. Give yourself permission to take time out of your week to read the Introduction and Chapter 1 "All About Evie". It's important to read the introduction, to understand the author's writing style (funny, compelling) and why she chose to write her book with both fictional & Biblical stories; she also shares a few startling facts about her personal life.
If you have the Revised Edition (teal & yellow-orange cover), there is a study guide in the back of the book, starting on page 245. I'm not sure if it's in the original (purple) edition or the e-book edition. These questions & our discussions is where faith is deepened. As we read, explore, and see ourselves through Scripture-colored lenses, we draw ever closer to becoming the women God designed us to be. We renew our soul and open our hearts & minds to what the Lord has to show us. Believe it or not, we have more in common with these women who lived centuries ago, than we might have first thought.
You have worked hard these last few months, making the holidays bright for family and friends. Take some time to recharge your soul by diving into the pages of Bad Girls of the Bible. You won't be disappointed!
I'll be back here on Wednesday, to give you some 'things to think about' from the Study Guide.
Do you know someone who might be interested in reading about these bad girls? Please pass this on to them and, if you attend our live group, bring them along! Regardless of where you are along your journey (still questioning, just starting out, or have blisters from walking this path for a long time) you are welcome here!
Happy Reading!!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul, and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
Master and Servant
Moses said to the LORD (Yahweh), "O Lord (ADONAY), I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue." 13. But Moses said, "O Lord (ADONAY), please send someone else to do it." Exodus 4: 10, 13
This week we continue in Moses' story as we discover our relationship with ADONAY, Lord, Master. In the passages above, Moses addresses God as Adonay, acknowledging that God is his Master at the same time he is questioning God's calling.
Take a minute... have you ever done this? I know I have, probably way too often. And then I wonder, 'how can I question God's choice!? That's pretty brazen! And not how I should respond, regardless of what I think about myself.' Then I get into the whole downward spiral of beating myself up for questioning God and not feeling worthy of His calling. It's a rabbit hole of negativity that I find myself falling down. Have you been down that rabbit hole?
The Good News is that ADONAY doesn't allow us to fall too far, especially when He is the one giving us a task. He is our Master and calls us to do His work, not our own. He equips us, even when we doubt ourselves. And when we really doubt our ability, like Moses did, He allays our fears by sending help. Yahweh, our personal redeemer, sends someone to grab our ankle and pull us up out of the rabbit hole, like Aaron did for Moses. Aaron came alongside Moses to carry out the Lord Master's plan of setting His people free.
My personal 'rabbit hole' is trying to figure out what it all means... As I'm reading the Bible I often wonder 'what was God thinking?! What was the point? Why did God or a person make that choice? What am I suppose to get from this story?' While exploring, wondering, and questioning can be useful tools to a deeper understanding and faith, they can also set a trap of out of control questions, guesses, and tangents that take me further away from the Truth. When I notice that I've gone down that twisting, twirling tangent I listen for God's voice, I pray for guidance back out of that dark hole and on to the right path. I return always to the truth of God's love for me, that He is both Adonay (Lord, Master) and Yahweh (LORD, always near). I am His servant; He loves me and would not ask of me anything that He cannot do through me. He has given me a brain with which to gain knowledge, help others and I should use it for good, not for questioning God's command.
As you work through the study questions on page 40 and 41, take the time to write out your answers (either in the book or in your journal). Spend some extra time on questions 4 and 6. Try to be very honest with yourself, though it's not always easy to do. And for question 6, if there has been someone specifically who has come alongside you, allow this to be an opportunity to acknowledge them. Reach out to them and let them know how thankful you are. Perhaps they are unaware of your gratitude. Either way, it's always nice to hear a word of thanks!
REMINDER: We will not meet at Redeemer this week, Oct 31st or next week, Nov 7th due to numerous conflicts. Keep reading and I will keep posting; we can have our study right here on the blog over the next 2 weeks! I look forward to reading your comments and discussing "ADONAY LORD, MASTER" with you. Click here to post your comment.
For next week, read "YAHWEH ROPHE THE LORD WHO HEALS".
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
This week we continue in Moses' story as we discover our relationship with ADONAY, Lord, Master. In the passages above, Moses addresses God as Adonay, acknowledging that God is his Master at the same time he is questioning God's calling.
Take a minute... have you ever done this? I know I have, probably way too often. And then I wonder, 'how can I question God's choice!? That's pretty brazen! And not how I should respond, regardless of what I think about myself.' Then I get into the whole downward spiral of beating myself up for questioning God and not feeling worthy of His calling. It's a rabbit hole of negativity that I find myself falling down. Have you been down that rabbit hole?
The Good News is that ADONAY doesn't allow us to fall too far, especially when He is the one giving us a task. He is our Master and calls us to do His work, not our own. He equips us, even when we doubt ourselves. And when we really doubt our ability, like Moses did, He allays our fears by sending help. Yahweh, our personal redeemer, sends someone to grab our ankle and pull us up out of the rabbit hole, like Aaron did for Moses. Aaron came alongside Moses to carry out the Lord Master's plan of setting His people free.
My personal 'rabbit hole' is trying to figure out what it all means... As I'm reading the Bible I often wonder 'what was God thinking?! What was the point? Why did God or a person make that choice? What am I suppose to get from this story?' While exploring, wondering, and questioning can be useful tools to a deeper understanding and faith, they can also set a trap of out of control questions, guesses, and tangents that take me further away from the Truth. When I notice that I've gone down that twisting, twirling tangent I listen for God's voice, I pray for guidance back out of that dark hole and on to the right path. I return always to the truth of God's love for me, that He is both Adonay (Lord, Master) and Yahweh (LORD, always near). I am His servant; He loves me and would not ask of me anything that He cannot do through me. He has given me a brain with which to gain knowledge, help others and I should use it for good, not for questioning God's command.
As you work through the study questions on page 40 and 41, take the time to write out your answers (either in the book or in your journal). Spend some extra time on questions 4 and 6. Try to be very honest with yourself, though it's not always easy to do. And for question 6, if there has been someone specifically who has come alongside you, allow this to be an opportunity to acknowledge them. Reach out to them and let them know how thankful you are. Perhaps they are unaware of your gratitude. Either way, it's always nice to hear a word of thanks!
REMINDER: We will not meet at Redeemer this week, Oct 31st or next week, Nov 7th due to numerous conflicts. Keep reading and I will keep posting; we can have our study right here on the blog over the next 2 weeks! I look forward to reading your comments and discussing "ADONAY LORD, MASTER" with you. Click here to post your comment.
For next week, read "YAHWEH ROPHE THE LORD WHO HEALS".
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
A close, personal Redeemer
"God replied, "I AM WHO I AM. Just tell them, 'I AM has sent me to you.'" Exodus 3:14 (NLT)
Have you ever felt like God is just up there, far away and uninterested in life here on earth? I have and suspect that even the most devout have too, even if it was fleetingly. Sometimes, when life is difficult, we wonder if God takes any notice.
He does! In the reading for this week, Exodus 3: 1-20, we meet THE LORD, YAHWEH, "... a name closely linked to God's redeeming acts in the history of his chosen people". (The Names of God, by Ann Spangler, pg 33) It is in the character of this name, YAHWEH, that we take comfort that God has been and will be, always present with those who "... obey the commands of the LORD your God and walk in his ways, the LORD will establish you as his holy people as he solemnly promised to do." Deut. 28:9.
In our reading, Moses is called in a not-so-subtle, yet very private & personal way, to lead God's people out of Egypt. He comes to Moses, they have a conversation in which God tells him of His concerns about the Israelites, and of the rescue that Moses will lead in His name. Moses questions God's choice in leadership, but God assures him and promises to be with him. It is this revelation of WHO God is that will ensure Moses' success as leader, fulfilling God's command.
I have always loved this story, but most often focused on the big, miraculous, exciting things that happened. Today, thanks to the questions in our study, I am focused more on what God reveals about himself and what that means to me. What is God revealing to you? Write down your answers as they first come to you. But don't forget about it as you go about your life. Allow the questions and the Scripture to remain with you throughout your day and your week. Come back to the questions later and see if your perspective has changed or more has been revealed as you spend time with God's Word.
The next time you have a conversation with God and He calls you to something you don't think you can do, call on YAHWEH. When you feel like God is far away, pray to THE LORD, YAHWEH and remember His promises. YAHWEH IS and always WILL BE, He is with us, He is merciful, gracious, rich in unfailing love and forgiveness; He is a strong fortress and will save us from our sins. These words and many more descriptions of YAHWEH can be found in the "passages for continued study" on page 37. As you read through these passages, make note of the descriptors of THE LORD. What comfort and strength do you receive from them? If you don't yet have the book, I am happy to list the passages in the comments, just ask :)
In your journal this week, write about a time when you met THE LORD, YAHWEH. Your experience may not have included a burning bush, but anytime God is with us during a challenge is significant. As you recall the time, reflect on how you felt before, during, and after. Record how the experience effected you and those around you.
"May the LORD bless you and protect you. May the LORD smile on you and be gracious to you. May the LORD show you his favor and give you his peace." Numbers 6: 24-26
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Have you ever felt like God is just up there, far away and uninterested in life here on earth? I have and suspect that even the most devout have too, even if it was fleetingly. Sometimes, when life is difficult, we wonder if God takes any notice.
He does! In the reading for this week, Exodus 3: 1-20, we meet THE LORD, YAHWEH, "... a name closely linked to God's redeeming acts in the history of his chosen people". (The Names of God, by Ann Spangler, pg 33) It is in the character of this name, YAHWEH, that we take comfort that God has been and will be, always present with those who "... obey the commands of the LORD your God and walk in his ways, the LORD will establish you as his holy people as he solemnly promised to do." Deut. 28:9.
In our reading, Moses is called in a not-so-subtle, yet very private & personal way, to lead God's people out of Egypt. He comes to Moses, they have a conversation in which God tells him of His concerns about the Israelites, and of the rescue that Moses will lead in His name. Moses questions God's choice in leadership, but God assures him and promises to be with him. It is this revelation of WHO God is that will ensure Moses' success as leader, fulfilling God's command.
I have always loved this story, but most often focused on the big, miraculous, exciting things that happened. Today, thanks to the questions in our study, I am focused more on what God reveals about himself and what that means to me. What is God revealing to you? Write down your answers as they first come to you. But don't forget about it as you go about your life. Allow the questions and the Scripture to remain with you throughout your day and your week. Come back to the questions later and see if your perspective has changed or more has been revealed as you spend time with God's Word.
The next time you have a conversation with God and He calls you to something you don't think you can do, call on YAHWEH. When you feel like God is far away, pray to THE LORD, YAHWEH and remember His promises. YAHWEH IS and always WILL BE, He is with us, He is merciful, gracious, rich in unfailing love and forgiveness; He is a strong fortress and will save us from our sins. These words and many more descriptions of YAHWEH can be found in the "passages for continued study" on page 37. As you read through these passages, make note of the descriptors of THE LORD. What comfort and strength do you receive from them? If you don't yet have the book, I am happy to list the passages in the comments, just ask :)
In your journal this week, write about a time when you met THE LORD, YAHWEH. Your experience may not have included a burning bush, but anytime God is with us during a challenge is significant. As you recall the time, reflect on how you felt before, during, and after. Record how the experience effected you and those around you.
"May the LORD bless you and protect you. May the LORD smile on you and be gracious to you. May the LORD show you his favor and give you his peace." Numbers 6: 24-26
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
One step at a time
"Abraham looked up and there in a thicket he saw a ram caught by its horns." Genesis 22:13a
Have you ever found yourself at the corner of "a rock and a hard place"? What did you do? Where did you turn? What was the state of your heart?
In this week's study, we are exploring YAHWEH YIREH, The Lord Will Provide.
The verse above is taken from the larger story found in Genesis 22. God tests Abraham by asking him to sacrifice his only and long awaited for son, Isaac. Personally, I have gone through the gamut of emotions with this passage over the years. From horror that God would ask such a thing, to horror that Abraham would go as far as he did! I've also been sad, mad, confused, worried and scared.
I've even put myself in Sarah's shoes a few times and wondered what she was thinking as her husband & son went off into the dessert. Did she have a feeling something was amiss? I truly struggled with the whole idea that God would put his trusted servant to the test in this way. Hadn't Abraham already proven how faithful his was? And by extension, if He tested Abraham like this, what could He have in store for me?! I'm not up to that kind of test!
However, as I read it with the understanding of The Lord Will Provide, I see that perhaps this is as much a test for us, the readers, as it was for Abraham. Perhaps we are meant to struggle with this story of belief, faith, sacrifice, and provision. Maybe we're suppose to move forward, one step at a time, and allow God to provide for our future, just as Abraham trusted that God would provide a lamb for the sacrifice.
Our author, Ann Spangler, brings this idea to light when she asks us to compare this scene with John 1:29, where John the Baptist declares Jesus as the Lamb of God. Spend some time with question 3. I'd love to hear your thoughts on the connection between the scenes AND how it relates to your life.
When have you met YAHWEH YIREH? When has The Lord provided for you? I'd love to read your story of provision! Don't forget, click here to go to the website to Comment, if you are reading this in your e-mail.
I look forward to seeing many of you in person on Friday morning! Remember, though, this is also for those who cannot make it in person. Follow along in the book (The Names of God by Ann Spangler) and connect with the group through the comments. If you are a friend or member of our home church, Redeemer Lutheran, connect with us during other events and on Sunday mornings! If you are joining us through this blog and live in the area, we'd love to meet you at Redeemer! Go to our website for all the details of where & when.
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Have you ever found yourself at the corner of "a rock and a hard place"? What did you do? Where did you turn? What was the state of your heart?
In this week's study, we are exploring YAHWEH YIREH, The Lord Will Provide.
The verse above is taken from the larger story found in Genesis 22. God tests Abraham by asking him to sacrifice his only and long awaited for son, Isaac. Personally, I have gone through the gamut of emotions with this passage over the years. From horror that God would ask such a thing, to horror that Abraham would go as far as he did! I've also been sad, mad, confused, worried and scared.
I've even put myself in Sarah's shoes a few times and wondered what she was thinking as her husband & son went off into the dessert. Did she have a feeling something was amiss? I truly struggled with the whole idea that God would put his trusted servant to the test in this way. Hadn't Abraham already proven how faithful his was? And by extension, if He tested Abraham like this, what could He have in store for me?! I'm not up to that kind of test!
However, as I read it with the understanding of The Lord Will Provide, I see that perhaps this is as much a test for us, the readers, as it was for Abraham. Perhaps we are meant to struggle with this story of belief, faith, sacrifice, and provision. Maybe we're suppose to move forward, one step at a time, and allow God to provide for our future, just as Abraham trusted that God would provide a lamb for the sacrifice.
Our author, Ann Spangler, brings this idea to light when she asks us to compare this scene with John 1:29, where John the Baptist declares Jesus as the Lamb of God. Spend some time with question 3. I'd love to hear your thoughts on the connection between the scenes AND how it relates to your life.
When have you met YAHWEH YIREH? When has The Lord provided for you? I'd love to read your story of provision! Don't forget, click here to go to the website to Comment, if you are reading this in your e-mail.
I look forward to seeing many of you in person on Friday morning! Remember, though, this is also for those who cannot make it in person. Follow along in the book (The Names of God by Ann Spangler) and connect with the group through the comments. If you are a friend or member of our home church, Redeemer Lutheran, connect with us during other events and on Sunday mornings! If you are joining us through this blog and live in the area, we'd love to meet you at Redeemer! Go to our website for all the details of where & when.
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Wednesday, September 24, 2014
What's in a Name?
"No longer will you be called Abram; your name will be Abraham, for I have made you a father of many nations. As for Sarai your wife, you are no longer to call her Sarai; her name will be Sarah."
~ excerpts from Genesis 17:1-18
Hello! Welcome to week 3 of our study, The Names of God by Ann Spangler.
This week we are introduced to EL SHADDAY, God Almighty. If you've been around the church or listen to Christian music, this is probably a name you've heard before. Amy Grant made the name more known with her 1982 song, "El Shaddai". If you're new to the church or have never heard Ms. Grant's song, that's okay! All you need to know is in our study this week.
In our reading, (Genesis 21:22-34) it is God Himself who reveals this name to Abram and by doing this reveals who He is. WOW! How would you react if God revealed Himself to you with this name? Pay close attention to how Abraham reacts. What is your take on that? I'm really not sure what to think about Abraham and his response! Though it does bring to mind times when I've reacted the same way to God's calling, "who? me? you must be kidding! how am I suppose to do that?"
You may notice that I used both Abram and Abraham in that last paragraph. That's because he was Abram at the beginning of our reading and Abraham by the end of it. God changes his wife's name, too. Why do you think God changes their names? What significance does that have? And what could that possibly mean for us?
While the reading is short and EL SHADDAY may be familiar to you, I encourage you to spend quiet time with the questions, especially #5 & #6. It is in pondering and answering these questions that God will be revealed to you and others through your life.
If you don't yet have the book, here are the last two questions:
#5. Have you ever had to wait a long time before God acted in your circumstances? Describe your experiences and how it tested you.
#6. What does the name EL SHADDAY, God Almighty, mean to you? How have you experienced God's almighty power working on your behalf?
I would love to read about how you have experienced El Shadday in your life. I hope you will share your story in the Comments!
Have a wonderful week!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." ~ Proverbs 16:24
~ excerpts from Genesis 17:1-18
Hello! Welcome to week 3 of our study, The Names of God by Ann Spangler.
This week we are introduced to EL SHADDAY, God Almighty. If you've been around the church or listen to Christian music, this is probably a name you've heard before. Amy Grant made the name more known with her 1982 song, "El Shaddai". If you're new to the church or have never heard Ms. Grant's song, that's okay! All you need to know is in our study this week.
In our reading, (Genesis 21:22-34) it is God Himself who reveals this name to Abram and by doing this reveals who He is. WOW! How would you react if God revealed Himself to you with this name? Pay close attention to how Abraham reacts. What is your take on that? I'm really not sure what to think about Abraham and his response! Though it does bring to mind times when I've reacted the same way to God's calling, "who? me? you must be kidding! how am I suppose to do that?"
You may notice that I used both Abram and Abraham in that last paragraph. That's because he was Abram at the beginning of our reading and Abraham by the end of it. God changes his wife's name, too. Why do you think God changes their names? What significance does that have? And what could that possibly mean for us?
While the reading is short and EL SHADDAY may be familiar to you, I encourage you to spend quiet time with the questions, especially #5 & #6. It is in pondering and answering these questions that God will be revealed to you and others through your life.
If you don't yet have the book, here are the last two questions:
#5. Have you ever had to wait a long time before God acted in your circumstances? Describe your experiences and how it tested you.
#6. What does the name EL SHADDAY, God Almighty, mean to you? How have you experienced God's almighty power working on your behalf?
I would love to read about how you have experienced El Shadday in your life. I hope you will share your story in the Comments!
Have a wonderful week!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." ~ Proverbs 16:24
Tuesday, September 16, 2014
Nothing is hidden
"He will not let you stumble and fall; the one who watches over you will not sleep. The Lord himself watches over you! The Lord stands beside you as your protective shade." Psalm 121: 3, 5
How comforting is our opening verse! Knowing that God does not sleep, but keeps an ever watchful eye on me, as a protector, fills me with warmth and confidence.
But what about those times when I fall short, very short? Then the idea that God sees what I did or didn't do, allows feelings of guilt and shame creep in. I want to run & hide.
What about those times of difficulties and suffering? Does God see me then? Sometimes it feels like He doesn't! But the name EL ROI implies that He does.
This week we are encountering EL ROI, the God who sees me. The passages for continued study at the end of this section point towards a God who is ever watchful over us; the comforting side of His all seeing-ness. But, our Key Scripture is in the story of Hagar, the Egyptian slave woman who bore Abram's first son. It is Hagar who gave this name to the Lord. And I suspect that maybe she felt like God wasn't watching over her. And once she realized He had been, she felt a little guilty about the way she had behaved.
Fortunately, her story doesn't end there!
As you study and read her experience, discover in your own life when you have encountered EL ROI, the God who sees me.
I encourage you to write down those times in your life when you suspected God had taken a 'coffee break' from His watchfulness. Then try to recall if that difficult time later proved useful or turned into a blessing. Perhaps you are in that difficult time right now. Journal your thoughts and feelings as they come to you. Write prayers to ELOHIM and EL ROI and watch as God, in His time and His way, turns your world around.
I'd love to hear about your encounter with EL ROI, the God who sees me. Comment below (click here if you are reading this in e-mail) to share your experience! I can't wait to read how God is working in your life!!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
How comforting is our opening verse! Knowing that God does not sleep, but keeps an ever watchful eye on me, as a protector, fills me with warmth and confidence.
But what about those times when I fall short, very short? Then the idea that God sees what I did or didn't do, allows feelings of guilt and shame creep in. I want to run & hide.
What about those times of difficulties and suffering? Does God see me then? Sometimes it feels like He doesn't! But the name EL ROI implies that He does.
This week we are encountering EL ROI, the God who sees me. The passages for continued study at the end of this section point towards a God who is ever watchful over us; the comforting side of His all seeing-ness. But, our Key Scripture is in the story of Hagar, the Egyptian slave woman who bore Abram's first son. It is Hagar who gave this name to the Lord. And I suspect that maybe she felt like God wasn't watching over her. And once she realized He had been, she felt a little guilty about the way she had behaved.
Fortunately, her story doesn't end there!
As you study and read her experience, discover in your own life when you have encountered EL ROI, the God who sees me.
I encourage you to write down those times in your life when you suspected God had taken a 'coffee break' from His watchfulness. Then try to recall if that difficult time later proved useful or turned into a blessing. Perhaps you are in that difficult time right now. Journal your thoughts and feelings as they come to you. Write prayers to ELOHIM and EL ROI and watch as God, in His time and His way, turns your world around.
I'd love to hear about your encounter with EL ROI, the God who sees me. Comment below (click here if you are reading this in e-mail) to share your experience! I can't wait to read how God is working in your life!!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Wednesday, September 10, 2014
Creativity - it's in us!
"In ages past you laid the foundation of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands." Psalm 102:25
As I try to gather my thoughts on this first name of God, ELOHIM, I am all aflutter! There is so much conveyed by the description 'mighty creator'.
What comes to mind for you? Think & journal about it before you continue reading. I want to hear what your thoughts are before you read mine! Seriously, stop reading and write what comes to mind when you ponder what God, Mighty Creator looks like, sounds like; what characteristics & emotions bubble up to the surface upon hearing that title?
Good! I hope you'll share your thoughts & ideas in the Comments!
When I see God, Mighty Creator I see order & logic coupled with imagination, ingenuity, and indulgence. To create things as big as space, as deep as the oceans, and as powerful as wind requires strength beyond my understanding. And to create all the colors found in nature, the variety of tastes & smells & sounds, and the proliferation of the all the different kinds of creatures, speaks to me of a God who just couldn't get enough, of anything! Once His creative wheels got rolling, He just kept on going. And while it seems obvious to us to create the world in the order in which He did, it still speaks of a God who is orderly & logical. There is gentleness, too, in flower petals, soft breezes, the lap of ocean waves upon the shore, and the bonds of family among people & animals. Mighty Creator is God so big He created everything, from the sun to the stripes on a bumble bee. And yet, offers to give it all to us to care for and is forever concerned with each one of us, because we are His creation too.
Recall a time when you created something. How did you feel during the process? Afterwards? Did you stand back and admire your work? Did you give it to someone? What did you expect or hope for in return? Or did you keep because it's too difficult to entrust it to someone else?
When I write I spend quite a lot of time on it. I write, re-write, read it a hundred times, change it, stare at it, wonder what someone else will think about it and then, when I think it is just right and feel a little pride in what I have done, with shaking finger I hit "publish".
Then wait and hope that someone is touched by what I have created.
It's not easy to create something and then give it away. But that's exactly what God did in Genesis 1:26-30. How does this idea of God as creator and us as being entrusted with His creation influence how you live your life? And how can we instill in future generations the idea that we are the recipients of a heavenly treasure right here on earth?
When have you known ELOHIM - God, Mighty Creator? I look forward to reading your encounter with the creator of the universe.
Your partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
As I try to gather my thoughts on this first name of God, ELOHIM, I am all aflutter! There is so much conveyed by the description 'mighty creator'.
What comes to mind for you? Think & journal about it before you continue reading. I want to hear what your thoughts are before you read mine! Seriously, stop reading and write what comes to mind when you ponder what God, Mighty Creator looks like, sounds like; what characteristics & emotions bubble up to the surface upon hearing that title?
Good! I hope you'll share your thoughts & ideas in the Comments!
When I see God, Mighty Creator I see order & logic coupled with imagination, ingenuity, and indulgence. To create things as big as space, as deep as the oceans, and as powerful as wind requires strength beyond my understanding. And to create all the colors found in nature, the variety of tastes & smells & sounds, and the proliferation of the all the different kinds of creatures, speaks to me of a God who just couldn't get enough, of anything! Once His creative wheels got rolling, He just kept on going. And while it seems obvious to us to create the world in the order in which He did, it still speaks of a God who is orderly & logical. There is gentleness, too, in flower petals, soft breezes, the lap of ocean waves upon the shore, and the bonds of family among people & animals. Mighty Creator is God so big He created everything, from the sun to the stripes on a bumble bee. And yet, offers to give it all to us to care for and is forever concerned with each one of us, because we are His creation too.
Recall a time when you created something. How did you feel during the process? Afterwards? Did you stand back and admire your work? Did you give it to someone? What did you expect or hope for in return? Or did you keep because it's too difficult to entrust it to someone else?
When I write I spend quite a lot of time on it. I write, re-write, read it a hundred times, change it, stare at it, wonder what someone else will think about it and then, when I think it is just right and feel a little pride in what I have done, with shaking finger I hit "publish".
Then wait and hope that someone is touched by what I have created.
It's not easy to create something and then give it away. But that's exactly what God did in Genesis 1:26-30. How does this idea of God as creator and us as being entrusted with His creation influence how you live your life? And how can we instill in future generations the idea that we are the recipients of a heavenly treasure right here on earth?
When have you known ELOHIM - God, Mighty Creator? I look forward to reading your encounter with the creator of the universe.
Your partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Monday, September 8, 2014
Back to the Beginning
"In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." Genesis 1:1
Welcome! I am so excited that you are here! I told you we were going back to the beginning and our opening verse is as close to the beginning as we can get.
I can't wait to get started on our new study, The Names of God by Ann Spangler (not to be confused with her books, Praying the Names of God and Praying the Names of Jesus).
I have always been fascinated by names, which is beyond ironic because I have such a hard time remembering people's names. But, in ages past (and even still in many cultures today) names were very meaningful. They told others who you were, who your family was, where you were from, possibly what your parents' hopes were for you, and maybe even revealed some of your personality. Some believed a person's destiny was linked with their name!
As you read through the English version of the Bible, have you ever noticed the different ways God is mentioned? Things like, "Lord God", "God of Gods", "Almighty", "Almighty God" and so on. Even as a kid in Sunday School, I wondered about the redundancy of it. It wasn't until much later, when it really sunk in that the Bible wasn't first written in English and the English language is both complex (because it borrows from so many other languages) and over simplified (because we reduce multiple ideas and feelings into one word) that I became intrigued with the original names of God used in the ancient text.
Can you imagine my excitement when I found this book?!
As I explored it's contents, my excitement grew because it also meets my Bible study criteria: short readings, a few easy questions, and a few that will really get us talking (deep thinking). Bonus: It's a 1-book study! The Scripture is included in the book, so it's easy to throw in your bag and take it along anywhere! It's just right for those beginning their Faith Journey, those who may be new to Bible study, and interesting & intriguing enough for those who have been studying for years. It's also written to be done either individually or as a group - perfect for our mash-up Bible study of in-person and on-line communication. If you can't make it in-person, I hope that you will join us here, on the blog, to discuss The Names of God.
I really can't wait to get started!!
We will begin with ELOHIM, on page 11. But, it's always a good idea to read the Introduction (page 9); it's brief and gives a good understanding of where the author is coming from and what she hopes to accomplish through her book. I love that Ms. Spangler has included a Pronunciation Guide (page 7-8)! Yea!!
If you're like me and like to think about your answers to the study questions and ponder the "Passages for Continued Study" please read and answer the questions for ELOHIM (p 9-15).
There is one question I would like everyone to answer for every name of God: Do you know God in this way? This is a great question to ask yourself before you even begin reading and one to write about in your journal. Yes, your journal - get it out, dust it off, and get writing :) That's a note to myself, too!
This week we will do only one name because, of course, we will want to catch up on what everyone was doing over the summer! If you'd like to bring something that represents your summer, please feel free to do so (think Kindergarten show & tell)! Wink, wink Paula ;) If you can't meet on Friday morning, please let us all know what you've been up to this summer in the Comments. We'd love to hear from you!
I will see you Friday morning, September 12th! I'll have the coffee brewing by 9:10 am! Come then to catch up with everyone. We will begin our formal study by 9:30.
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Welcome! I am so excited that you are here! I told you we were going back to the beginning and our opening verse is as close to the beginning as we can get.
I can't wait to get started on our new study, The Names of God by Ann Spangler (not to be confused with her books, Praying the Names of God and Praying the Names of Jesus).
I have always been fascinated by names, which is beyond ironic because I have such a hard time remembering people's names. But, in ages past (and even still in many cultures today) names were very meaningful. They told others who you were, who your family was, where you were from, possibly what your parents' hopes were for you, and maybe even revealed some of your personality. Some believed a person's destiny was linked with their name!
As you read through the English version of the Bible, have you ever noticed the different ways God is mentioned? Things like, "Lord God", "God of Gods", "Almighty", "Almighty God" and so on. Even as a kid in Sunday School, I wondered about the redundancy of it. It wasn't until much later, when it really sunk in that the Bible wasn't first written in English and the English language is both complex (because it borrows from so many other languages) and over simplified (because we reduce multiple ideas and feelings into one word) that I became intrigued with the original names of God used in the ancient text.
Can you imagine my excitement when I found this book?!
As I explored it's contents, my excitement grew because it also meets my Bible study criteria: short readings, a few easy questions, and a few that will really get us talking (deep thinking). Bonus: It's a 1-book study! The Scripture is included in the book, so it's easy to throw in your bag and take it along anywhere! It's just right for those beginning their Faith Journey, those who may be new to Bible study, and interesting & intriguing enough for those who have been studying for years. It's also written to be done either individually or as a group - perfect for our mash-up Bible study of in-person and on-line communication. If you can't make it in-person, I hope that you will join us here, on the blog, to discuss The Names of God.
I really can't wait to get started!!
We will begin with ELOHIM, on page 11. But, it's always a good idea to read the Introduction (page 9); it's brief and gives a good understanding of where the author is coming from and what she hopes to accomplish through her book. I love that Ms. Spangler has included a Pronunciation Guide (page 7-8)! Yea!!
If you're like me and like to think about your answers to the study questions and ponder the "Passages for Continued Study" please read and answer the questions for ELOHIM (p 9-15).
There is one question I would like everyone to answer for every name of God: Do you know God in this way? This is a great question to ask yourself before you even begin reading and one to write about in your journal. Yes, your journal - get it out, dust it off, and get writing :) That's a note to myself, too!
This week we will do only one name because, of course, we will want to catch up on what everyone was doing over the summer! If you'd like to bring something that represents your summer, please feel free to do so (think Kindergarten show & tell)! Wink, wink Paula ;) If you can't meet on Friday morning, please let us all know what you've been up to this summer in the Comments. We'd love to hear from you!
I will see you Friday morning, September 12th! I'll have the coffee brewing by 9:10 am! Come then to catch up with everyone. We will begin our formal study by 9:30.
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
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