"Have you lost your senses? After starting your Christian lives in the Spirit, why are you now trying to become perfect by your own human effort? I ask you again, does God give you the Holy Spirit and work miracles among you because you obey the law of Moses? Of course not! It is because you believe the message you heard about Christ." Galatians 3: 3 & 5 NLT
Welcome to our study, the My One Word project! I am so glad you are joining us. We meet here, on-line, and in person on Friday mornings at Redeemer Lutheran Church, see the church website for more detailed information. If you are unable to join us for coffee, that's okay. The study is able to be done completely on-line through the blog, comments, and your book, if need be. But a support group is vital; being held accountable for your word is part of the project. I encourage everyone to share Comments on the blog; it is a wonderful tool to keep us all connected! If you are a friend or member of Redeemer, connect with us in person on Sunday or any time we gather as a community of faith! If you are joining us from afar, welcome, I hope that you will feel in community with us through this page. Better yet, encourage a friend or two to join you, and us, on this journey!
Our format for this study will be a little different than in the past. The blog will be about the chapters and discussion questions from the book and our coffee time on Friday will be about the video.That doesn't mean there won't be any cross-over, but it will allow people to read the book at their own pace. I will endeavour to blog about 2 chapters at a time, so you can read the corresponding blog posts and comment on your current chapter! And if you are joining us on Friday morning, but haven't completed all the reading, do not worry, as our discussions will mostly be about the video we will watch.
Note: The video series is a companion to the book and not necessary to participate in the My One Word project.
Chapter one, "What is My One Word?" explains how and why the project was developed. It's not often readers get to see behind the curtain of why a book came into being. But it's not just an introduction. Mike hits us with some thought provoking statements and introduces us to ideas and phrases he will use throughout the book. I encourage you to read with a pen & notebook. Even though this is the second time I have read it, there are a few new things I noticed and a few I had forgotten. I wrote them down & underlined them, again. The one statement that caught my attention this time, and I will admit, shook me up a bit is this, "... the lens through which you examine your heart and life for an entire year." (pg 24). It's the word "examine" that has me a bit unnerved.
How about you? What is it in chapter one or the reflection questions that has you unnerved? Or excited? What have you already learned about yourself through these 9 pages?
Chapter two answers my question of, "isn't this just another self-help book?" The answer is "no", of course. And Mike shares a few stories that will make you laugh, cringe, and say, "ah-ha". Take some quiet time and absorb as much as you can from this chapter.
There are two things from chapter 2 that I hope to understand more fully, "God helps those who abide with him, those who walk with him in faith" (pg 34) and "Our efforts are not the source of the change we are after; they can't be. Rather, they get us in a position for God to change us." (pg 35). I am comfortable with doing things to make a difference, but these 2 statements are more ethereal. They require me to draw closer to God and allow Him to make the change. I can't help but recall the readings from this past Sunday on Transfiguration; where Jesus took Peter, James, and John up the mountain and "Jesus' appearance changed so that his face shone like the sun, and his clothing became dazzling white." (Matthew 17:2 NLT). I certainly don't expect that kind of physical transformation, what comes to mind rather is the fact that Jesus just showed up and God transformed him. He had to physically get up the mountain, which probably was not a walk in the park, it took some effort. And he had to choose to go there, rather than attend to some other more pressing matter. I think perhaps that is how My One Word will help me this year. It will be the tool I use to climb closer to God; it will be a reminder that drawing closer to God is more important than the laundry or catching up on my favorite TV shows. It will put me in a position to depend on God (pg 39).
Grab your journal and write out your answers to the reflection questions. As Mike says on page 23, "The normal, natural pace of our lives will not likely lead us toward spiritual formation." So take this opportunity, a few minutes right now, to slow down. Put pen to paper and write what's on your mind. You will be so glad you did!
I have shared some of my thoughts on these first two chapters. Won't you join me in the Comment section below? What challenges or excites you? What have you learned? What questions do you have? I look forward to hearing from each of you!
Remember, if you are reading this in your e-mail, go to the blog (click here) to post a Comment.
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
honey
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
Week 1 - My One Word
"Be silent, and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10 (NLV)
When my son was in 2nd grade, his first year at the local public school, he had difficulty adjusting. His complaint to me was that his classroom was loud. Having been in his room a few times, I knew that generally the class was well behaved and not overly boisterous. What I realized when I went in for a conference was all the visual stimulation, the clutter and busy-ness of the classroom and the fast paced schedule. It all made it hard for him to quiet his mind enough to concentrate on his lesson.
That was an "ah-ha" moment for me. It clarified something I had been trying to understand for years: The world in which we live is loud! And I don't just mean it's filled with noise (which is it!). It's colors are loud, it's demands on our time & energy are loud, we are visually assaulted with images, our schedules scream "hurry up", we talk about the ticking of clocks of self-imposed, culture-imposed, and even biological deadlines (presumably getting louder as time moves on). All this NOISE makes it difficult, and sometimes impossible, to focus on the important things in life. We can easily get distracted, off track, and confused.
We all need to find a way to slow down. The medical world is finally discovering what God has been telling us for countless ages: REST. Rest is essential. Quiet is necessary. Let go and let God! "Be silent, and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10
We need to limit the noise of living in order to focus on the important things of life. The book My One Word will help us do just that.
This Friday, March 28th, we begin with the video and book series, My One Word. If you have not yet purchased your book, it's okay. Most orders from Amazon come within a few days :) And you don't have to do any reading before our first session, anyway. Order your book here to support Redeemer Youth, and relax.
If you have your book and want to start reading, here's what I suggest as an order of importance:
1) pg 181-184 Video Discussion Guide (scan the questions, we will discuss them after the video)
2) pg 13-16 Introduction
3) Chapter 1
4) Reflection questions at the end of Chapter 1
After this week, the reading will be important for you. It is how you will narrow down your One Word, which we will all eventually share with one another. Sharing our word is essential in being held accountable to it.
I strongly recommend a journal. While there is often some blank space after the reflection questions at the end of each chapter, it's not very much. As I was journal-ing today, I found that by writing out what I at first thought was a non-answer, I eventually came around to something more significant. It was through the process of slowing down to write that allowed me to see what was really going on. There may be things within the chapter you'd like to make note of, too. And, you may want to note things that stand out to you in the videos as well, since this is what most of our discussions will be based upon.*
Your journal can be anything, by the way. It can be an old notebook, a binder with lined paper, or just some paper stapled together. Whatever you have that you can keep with your book and bring to your computer and/or our sessions.
If you've never 'journaled' before, don't let that intimidate you. It's just the latest word for writing because the word 'writing' often intimidates people! It's just writing down what comes to mind, making note of favorite ideas, and jotting down things that bring up more questions for you. It doesn't require much time, either. There is no quota of pages to be filled or number of words. Put your thoughts on paper - there is no judgement or critique.
*If you are following on-line and not attending Friday mornings, start or join a discussion on the reflection questions or group questions on our blog (note: if you receive updates via e-mail, you must go to the blog to enter a Comment). The group questions from the video don't rely on having seen the video; it is the discussion between us that is vital. Visit our blog and the My One Word blog (click here) for even more support and connections!
I am so excited to get started! Thank you for joining me on this journey of life change!!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
When my son was in 2nd grade, his first year at the local public school, he had difficulty adjusting. His complaint to me was that his classroom was loud. Having been in his room a few times, I knew that generally the class was well behaved and not overly boisterous. What I realized when I went in for a conference was all the visual stimulation, the clutter and busy-ness of the classroom and the fast paced schedule. It all made it hard for him to quiet his mind enough to concentrate on his lesson.
That was an "ah-ha" moment for me. It clarified something I had been trying to understand for years: The world in which we live is loud! And I don't just mean it's filled with noise (which is it!). It's colors are loud, it's demands on our time & energy are loud, we are visually assaulted with images, our schedules scream "hurry up", we talk about the ticking of clocks of self-imposed, culture-imposed, and even biological deadlines (presumably getting louder as time moves on). All this NOISE makes it difficult, and sometimes impossible, to focus on the important things in life. We can easily get distracted, off track, and confused.
We all need to find a way to slow down. The medical world is finally discovering what God has been telling us for countless ages: REST. Rest is essential. Quiet is necessary. Let go and let God! "Be silent, and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10
We need to limit the noise of living in order to focus on the important things of life. The book My One Word will help us do just that.
This Friday, March 28th, we begin with the video and book series, My One Word. If you have not yet purchased your book, it's okay. Most orders from Amazon come within a few days :) And you don't have to do any reading before our first session, anyway. Order your book here to support Redeemer Youth, and relax.
If you have your book and want to start reading, here's what I suggest as an order of importance:
1) pg 181-184 Video Discussion Guide (scan the questions, we will discuss them after the video)
2) pg 13-16 Introduction
3) Chapter 1
4) Reflection questions at the end of Chapter 1
After this week, the reading will be important for you. It is how you will narrow down your One Word, which we will all eventually share with one another. Sharing our word is essential in being held accountable to it.
I strongly recommend a journal. While there is often some blank space after the reflection questions at the end of each chapter, it's not very much. As I was journal-ing today, I found that by writing out what I at first thought was a non-answer, I eventually came around to something more significant. It was through the process of slowing down to write that allowed me to see what was really going on. There may be things within the chapter you'd like to make note of, too. And, you may want to note things that stand out to you in the videos as well, since this is what most of our discussions will be based upon.*
Your journal can be anything, by the way. It can be an old notebook, a binder with lined paper, or just some paper stapled together. Whatever you have that you can keep with your book and bring to your computer and/or our sessions.
If you've never 'journaled' before, don't let that intimidate you. It's just the latest word for writing because the word 'writing' often intimidates people! It's just writing down what comes to mind, making note of favorite ideas, and jotting down things that bring up more questions for you. It doesn't require much time, either. There is no quota of pages to be filled or number of words. Put your thoughts on paper - there is no judgement or critique.
*If you are following on-line and not attending Friday mornings, start or join a discussion on the reflection questions or group questions on our blog (note: if you receive updates via e-mail, you must go to the blog to enter a Comment). The group questions from the video don't rely on having seen the video; it is the discussion between us that is vital. Visit our blog and the My One Word blog (click here) for even more support and connections!
I am so excited to get started! Thank you for joining me on this journey of life change!!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Wednesday, February 19, 2014
Java with the Judges - Week 6
"In those days Israel had no king, so the people did whatever seemed right in their own eyes." Judges 21:25
Thank you for working through Judges with me over the last 6 weeks! It has not been easy, but I hope it has been worthwhile. In all it's fallen depravity, there are lessons to be learned. When we compare the Israelites to our own global society, there are many parallels. Using these to look closely at our own faith, helps us to see where we need to call on our Lord. And reminds us that God is with us; He will not abandon us, and will use us, forgive us, and love us no matter what!
If you thought Judges was filled with awful people and situations up until now, hold on to your hats! Chapters 17-21 are even worse! My study Bible groups these chapters together under the heading "The Moral Failure Of Israel". It goes on to say, "This section shows Israel falling into idolatry, moral decline, and petty fighting. Israel, the nation that was to set the example for spiritual living, had instead become morally depraved. When Israel did serve God, and that was seldom, it was often from selfish motives." The darkest hour is just before the day dawns, and these are dark hours for the nation of Israel.
Thankfully, there's a whole lot of Bible after Judges, so we know this is not the end of the story. Which, for me, allows me to read it with a glimmer of hope.
The details of the story are sometimes graphic and gory and we have a hard time connecting with such heinous acts. But, after reading the chapters, pull back and look at the overarching themes: idolatry, selfishness, revenge, territorial elitism, egotism, lack of moral conviction. Generalize some of the behavior and you may just see some scary similarities in our world.
One of the points that Sandra Glahn makes on "Sunday" is how women are treated in these chapters. It is vastly different from what is seen up until now. It is also very different from how we are treated within our normal society. Sadly, it is not that different from how women are treated throughout the world, and even here in our own country. And that is just one example of the parallels that can be drawn between ancient, morally corrupt Israel and our 21st Century world. On "Friday" and "Saturday", Ms. Glahn brings full circle the treatment and role of women. She shows us the light at the end of these very dark chapters in Israel's history. If you are asking, 'where is God in all of this?', she points us ahead to where God has been planning and working all along - we just couldn't see it while we were in the muck of those last few chapters of Judges.
Have you ever found yourself in the muck of life? Wondering why everything seems to be against you? Nothing seems to be going right? At that point, did you ask, "Are you there, God?" Our "Friday" reading of 1 Samuel 1 shows us that He is. Not only is He there, He's working hard to bring His children peace, love, and closer to Him. He works on a societal level and an individual level. Throughout Judges, He blesses the nation of Israel through empowering individuals. How has God empowered you? And how have you, through God's empowerment, been a blessing to others?
If you are tempted to put down your book because you just can't endure another terrible act by the Israelites, I urge you to carry on. Work through the study questions and try to be aware of the "time-and-culture" differences. It is through these theologically challenging Scriptures that we add layers and depth to our understanding of our faith. Judges really pushes our boundaries. Consider this a bit of theological weightlifting. After turning the last page, feel free to strike your best "Stong Woman of Faith" pose!
What I learned from the Book of Judges: I have seen how much God loves me. That even when I want to push Him away, He will reach down into the most dangerous and disgusting part of my life and pull me closer to Him. I use to think this was a new message brought to the world through Christ, but now I see it was not new. It was the enduring message of a God who loves His people.
What insight have you gained over the last 6 weeks? Please share in the Comment section (click here if you are reading this in your e-mail). I look forward to reading all of your comments!!
Next week: My One Word by Mike Ashcraft and Rachel Olsen. Bring a friend and spread the word! Get your book and journal now (if you don't already have them)! Go here to order your copy through Amazon and support our Youth!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
honey
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Thank you for working through Judges with me over the last 6 weeks! It has not been easy, but I hope it has been worthwhile. In all it's fallen depravity, there are lessons to be learned. When we compare the Israelites to our own global society, there are many parallels. Using these to look closely at our own faith, helps us to see where we need to call on our Lord. And reminds us that God is with us; He will not abandon us, and will use us, forgive us, and love us no matter what!
If you thought Judges was filled with awful people and situations up until now, hold on to your hats! Chapters 17-21 are even worse! My study Bible groups these chapters together under the heading "The Moral Failure Of Israel". It goes on to say, "This section shows Israel falling into idolatry, moral decline, and petty fighting. Israel, the nation that was to set the example for spiritual living, had instead become morally depraved. When Israel did serve God, and that was seldom, it was often from selfish motives." The darkest hour is just before the day dawns, and these are dark hours for the nation of Israel.
Thankfully, there's a whole lot of Bible after Judges, so we know this is not the end of the story. Which, for me, allows me to read it with a glimmer of hope.
The details of the story are sometimes graphic and gory and we have a hard time connecting with such heinous acts. But, after reading the chapters, pull back and look at the overarching themes: idolatry, selfishness, revenge, territorial elitism, egotism, lack of moral conviction. Generalize some of the behavior and you may just see some scary similarities in our world.
One of the points that Sandra Glahn makes on "Sunday" is how women are treated in these chapters. It is vastly different from what is seen up until now. It is also very different from how we are treated within our normal society. Sadly, it is not that different from how women are treated throughout the world, and even here in our own country. And that is just one example of the parallels that can be drawn between ancient, morally corrupt Israel and our 21st Century world. On "Friday" and "Saturday", Ms. Glahn brings full circle the treatment and role of women. She shows us the light at the end of these very dark chapters in Israel's history. If you are asking, 'where is God in all of this?', she points us ahead to where God has been planning and working all along - we just couldn't see it while we were in the muck of those last few chapters of Judges.
Have you ever found yourself in the muck of life? Wondering why everything seems to be against you? Nothing seems to be going right? At that point, did you ask, "Are you there, God?" Our "Friday" reading of 1 Samuel 1 shows us that He is. Not only is He there, He's working hard to bring His children peace, love, and closer to Him. He works on a societal level and an individual level. Throughout Judges, He blesses the nation of Israel through empowering individuals. How has God empowered you? And how have you, through God's empowerment, been a blessing to others?
If you are tempted to put down your book because you just can't endure another terrible act by the Israelites, I urge you to carry on. Work through the study questions and try to be aware of the "time-and-culture" differences. It is through these theologically challenging Scriptures that we add layers and depth to our understanding of our faith. Judges really pushes our boundaries. Consider this a bit of theological weightlifting. After turning the last page, feel free to strike your best "Stong Woman of Faith" pose!
What I learned from the Book of Judges: I have seen how much God loves me. That even when I want to push Him away, He will reach down into the most dangerous and disgusting part of my life and pull me closer to Him. I use to think this was a new message brought to the world through Christ, but now I see it was not new. It was the enduring message of a God who loves His people.
What insight have you gained over the last 6 weeks? Please share in the Comment section (click here if you are reading this in your e-mail). I look forward to reading all of your comments!!
Next week: My One Word by Mike Ashcraft and Rachel Olsen. Bring a friend and spread the word! Get your book and journal now (if you don't already have them)! Go here to order your copy through Amazon and support our Youth!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
honey
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
Java with the Judges - Week 5
"When her son was born, she named him Samson. And the Lord blessed him as he grew up. And the Spirit of the Lord began to stir him while he lived in Mahanehdan, which is located between the towns of Zorah and Eshtaol." Judges 13:24-25 NLT
Welcome to week 5 of Java with the Judges! Congratulations on your perseverance. This can be difficult material for a number of reasons. The first: we don't really hear about these characters outside of heroic Bible stories in Sunday school. The second: in Sunday school we mostly focus on their heroic deeds, and rightfully so! But, as we read these stories in their unrated entirety straight from the source, we learn that our Heroes were also very Human. It's a bit like peeking behind the curtain!
How we use that knowledge is what strengthens our Faith and, I think, why these stories of flawed, but faithful leaders were included in our modern Bible.
This week we read the PG13-rated version of Samson! I can only imagine what this would look like as an Hollywood movie! Given the sex and violence, it would probably be a blockbuster! Mankind hasn't really changed much since ancient Israel, has it? And if that's true, what can we learn from Samson's story? A lot!
This week I had the opportunity to do the entire study in one sitting (thanks to a nearly 2 hour wait at the car dealership)! I have to admit, it was a bit much to digest. So many contradictions in Samson's life made my head spin. He was a hero empowered by God since before he was born, with restrictions on how he should live. He followed most of them, but he had character flaws - he liked sweet things and fine women. He broke his restrictions to satisfy his "sweet tooth", not once but many times! Despite this, and using this, God delivers his people from their oppressors through Samson.
What does that mean for us? I use to think I couldn't possibly be used by God because I wasn't a 'great' Christian. I would resolve to be a better person, but fell back into old patterns and wasn't consistent in living out my 'new' life. Because of this, I thought I couldn't possibly be a leader or a teacher. Thankfully, that is not a Biblical concept! As we've been reading throughout the book of Judges, and especially here in the story of Samson, God does not need or even want 'perfect' people, He wants faithful, willing people. He can use anyone to accomplish His plan. In fact, He can even use our weakness!
One verse in particular that I found very interesting is Judges 15:20, "Samson led Israel for twenty years during the days of Philistine prominence." (page 113). So, despite his antics with his first wife and all the murdering she caused him to do (30 men in 14:19, an unnamed number in 15:8 after burning their wheat fields, vineyards, and olive groves; and he killed a thousand men with the jawbone of a donkey in 15:15-16). After all that, he ruled for 20 years! And seemed to have his desires under control.
Then he goes to Gaza and his old habits return! His earthly desires cloud his judgement and he looses sight of God's plan. In a twist on the "Cycle of Misery" on page xiv, it is not the people who cry out at the beginning of the story, but Samson at the end, "Samson called to the Lord, "O Master, Lord, remember me! Strengthen me just one more time, O God, so I can get swift revenge against the Philistines for my two eyes!" (Judges 16:28, page 101). God delivers His people by raising up Samson as a judge and delivers Samson the Judge from his personal captivity.
Falling back into bad habits, forgetting a good habit, losing sight of what we know is right, satisfying ourselves rather than making the better choice to follow God: been there, done that, will probably do it again! Thank goodness God forgives those who call upon Him!! And we have these stories of flawed, but Faith-Filled judges to remind us of that.
There are many things we can learn in Judges 13-16, but my favorite is found on page 114 of the study, "Even our flaws can't thwart God's purposes." When I understood that message for the first time, I heaved a great sigh of relief! Reading these stories reminds me of that consistent, divine message.
If you're having a tough time getting through the study guide, jump to Saturday's conclusion and read Friday, because it fills in some important background information on exactly what Samson was (a Nazirite).
Comments: I love 'em!! This week, let me ask you: how does this reading of Samson differ from what you knew about him before this? How does his story help you live a life dedicated to God?
Happy Valentine's Day! "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him" John 3:16-17 NIV!
Reminder: we will begin "My One Word" on February 28th! Who will you bring?
For those who attend in person: Given the snow that may be coming Wednesday night, please check your e-mail before leaving for our gathering Friday morning. As always, safety first!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
honey
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Welcome to week 5 of Java with the Judges! Congratulations on your perseverance. This can be difficult material for a number of reasons. The first: we don't really hear about these characters outside of heroic Bible stories in Sunday school. The second: in Sunday school we mostly focus on their heroic deeds, and rightfully so! But, as we read these stories in their unrated entirety straight from the source, we learn that our Heroes were also very Human. It's a bit like peeking behind the curtain!
How we use that knowledge is what strengthens our Faith and, I think, why these stories of flawed, but faithful leaders were included in our modern Bible.
This week we read the PG13-rated version of Samson! I can only imagine what this would look like as an Hollywood movie! Given the sex and violence, it would probably be a blockbuster! Mankind hasn't really changed much since ancient Israel, has it? And if that's true, what can we learn from Samson's story? A lot!
This week I had the opportunity to do the entire study in one sitting (thanks to a nearly 2 hour wait at the car dealership)! I have to admit, it was a bit much to digest. So many contradictions in Samson's life made my head spin. He was a hero empowered by God since before he was born, with restrictions on how he should live. He followed most of them, but he had character flaws - he liked sweet things and fine women. He broke his restrictions to satisfy his "sweet tooth", not once but many times! Despite this, and using this, God delivers his people from their oppressors through Samson.
What does that mean for us? I use to think I couldn't possibly be used by God because I wasn't a 'great' Christian. I would resolve to be a better person, but fell back into old patterns and wasn't consistent in living out my 'new' life. Because of this, I thought I couldn't possibly be a leader or a teacher. Thankfully, that is not a Biblical concept! As we've been reading throughout the book of Judges, and especially here in the story of Samson, God does not need or even want 'perfect' people, He wants faithful, willing people. He can use anyone to accomplish His plan. In fact, He can even use our weakness!
One verse in particular that I found very interesting is Judges 15:20, "Samson led Israel for twenty years during the days of Philistine prominence." (page 113). So, despite his antics with his first wife and all the murdering she caused him to do (30 men in 14:19, an unnamed number in 15:8 after burning their wheat fields, vineyards, and olive groves; and he killed a thousand men with the jawbone of a donkey in 15:15-16). After all that, he ruled for 20 years! And seemed to have his desires under control.
Then he goes to Gaza and his old habits return! His earthly desires cloud his judgement and he looses sight of God's plan. In a twist on the "Cycle of Misery" on page xiv, it is not the people who cry out at the beginning of the story, but Samson at the end, "Samson called to the Lord, "O Master, Lord, remember me! Strengthen me just one more time, O God, so I can get swift revenge against the Philistines for my two eyes!" (Judges 16:28, page 101). God delivers His people by raising up Samson as a judge and delivers Samson the Judge from his personal captivity.
Falling back into bad habits, forgetting a good habit, losing sight of what we know is right, satisfying ourselves rather than making the better choice to follow God: been there, done that, will probably do it again! Thank goodness God forgives those who call upon Him!! And we have these stories of flawed, but Faith-Filled judges to remind us of that.
There are many things we can learn in Judges 13-16, but my favorite is found on page 114 of the study, "Even our flaws can't thwart God's purposes." When I understood that message for the first time, I heaved a great sigh of relief! Reading these stories reminds me of that consistent, divine message.
If you're having a tough time getting through the study guide, jump to Saturday's conclusion and read Friday, because it fills in some important background information on exactly what Samson was (a Nazirite).
Comments: I love 'em!! This week, let me ask you: how does this reading of Samson differ from what you knew about him before this? How does his story help you live a life dedicated to God?
Happy Valentine's Day! "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him" John 3:16-17 NIV!
Reminder: we will begin "My One Word" on February 28th! Who will you bring?
For those who attend in person: Given the snow that may be coming Wednesday night, please check your e-mail before leaving for our gathering Friday morning. As always, safety first!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
honey
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Wednesday, February 5, 2014
Java with the Judges - Week 4
"The Lord's spirit empowered Jephthah. He passed through Gilead and Manasseh and went to Mizpah in Gilead. From there he approached the Ammonites." Judges 11:29
Oh My Goodness! What...?! How...?! There are things in our reading this week that confound and confuse me. Namely the apparent sacrifice of Jehpthah's daughter. How about you? Rest assured we are not alone. The fate of Jephthah's daughter is highly debated among scholars and much evidence is given for both camps: those that think she was offered as a burnt sacrifice and those that believe she was dedicated to service of the Lord for the rest of her life, never marrying or having children. Either way, she died a virgin and Jephthah's lineage ended with her.
So, let's put the debate aside and look at the rest of the story. What can we learn about God and how he works? Where is He and what does he do for his people?
There are a lot of politics going on here. Jep (this is what I like to call him) is kicked out because he's an illegitimate son, but when he makes a name for himself as a great warrior they beg him to come back and be their leader. On page 84, Ms. Glahn asks us to look at the similarities between how Israel treats God and how Gilead treats Jep. It's an interesting exercise. Through her questions we also get a chance to examine our own lives and compare them to characters and situations throughout Judges 10-12.
We may not, at first, think we could possibly have anything in common with this story or it's characters. But upon closer inspection, we can see a thread that connects us. Have we overcome something in our past? Jep's checkered past did not hold him back from becoming the top pick to lead his people into battle. Nor did he hold it against Gilead for kicking him out. And who would have thought this 'brave warrior' (Judges 11:1) would have chosen diplomacy first when dealing with an invading army? He schooled the Amorites, not only on the battlefield, but also in teaching them a lesson in "history, logic and theology" (pg 83)!
The study guide questions help us see all the ways in which Jep leads God's people. We see him as a black sheep, a warrior, a diplomat, and someone empowered by the Lord's spirit. We see him be forgiving, rash, loyal, and decisive. Have any of these words ever described you? And what about the other people in this story: Jep's half-brothers of Gilead, the Ammonite king, Jep's daughter, and the Ephraimites?
Have you ever acted like any of these or been in a situation where someone else has - perhaps you were on the receiving end:
* judged someone based on their exterior or their past?
* ignored the facts because it didn't fit your own plan?
* encouraged someone else to keep their word, regardless of the cost?
* tried to horn-in on the glory after all the hard work was done?
* stirred up controversy between family and friends?
In the end, there is much we can learn from Judges 10-12 about God and His relationship with us. He is our leader and defender. He uses the weak and the strong to deliver His people from their oppressors. Whether the oppressor be an invading army or sin, God wants us to call on Him to set us free.
Let the comments begin! What did you learn about yourself through these three chapters? Have you ever experienced a situation that was similar to any of these? I can't wait to read your comments!!
A note regarding weather: If the preschool is closed, we will not meet. If Denville school has a delay, I will cannot arrive until after 10, in which case I will notify everyone via e-mail, so please check before heading out. If you can be there before that, please start without me! Always consider your comfort level driving in the current weather/road conditions. Safety First!
Looking Ahead: After Java with the Judges, we will return to My One Word by Mike Ashcraft and Rachel Olsen. For some this will be the first time and others it will be a second visit. I am excited to do this again! I have found that reading a book or doing a Bible study the 2nd and 3rd time, while different from the first, is no less inspiring and informative. We will begin the new study on February 28th. This is a fast, 4-week study with video introductions each Friday. This is appropriate for everyone, whether you are just starting your faith journey, well into it, or still asking questions. It's the perfect opportunity to bring a friend!
Stay warm and safe in snowy north Jersey!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
honey
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Oh My Goodness! What...?! How...?! There are things in our reading this week that confound and confuse me. Namely the apparent sacrifice of Jehpthah's daughter. How about you? Rest assured we are not alone. The fate of Jephthah's daughter is highly debated among scholars and much evidence is given for both camps: those that think she was offered as a burnt sacrifice and those that believe she was dedicated to service of the Lord for the rest of her life, never marrying or having children. Either way, she died a virgin and Jephthah's lineage ended with her.
So, let's put the debate aside and look at the rest of the story. What can we learn about God and how he works? Where is He and what does he do for his people?
There are a lot of politics going on here. Jep (this is what I like to call him) is kicked out because he's an illegitimate son, but when he makes a name for himself as a great warrior they beg him to come back and be their leader. On page 84, Ms. Glahn asks us to look at the similarities between how Israel treats God and how Gilead treats Jep. It's an interesting exercise. Through her questions we also get a chance to examine our own lives and compare them to characters and situations throughout Judges 10-12.
We may not, at first, think we could possibly have anything in common with this story or it's characters. But upon closer inspection, we can see a thread that connects us. Have we overcome something in our past? Jep's checkered past did not hold him back from becoming the top pick to lead his people into battle. Nor did he hold it against Gilead for kicking him out. And who would have thought this 'brave warrior' (Judges 11:1) would have chosen diplomacy first when dealing with an invading army? He schooled the Amorites, not only on the battlefield, but also in teaching them a lesson in "history, logic and theology" (pg 83)!
The study guide questions help us see all the ways in which Jep leads God's people. We see him as a black sheep, a warrior, a diplomat, and someone empowered by the Lord's spirit. We see him be forgiving, rash, loyal, and decisive. Have any of these words ever described you? And what about the other people in this story: Jep's half-brothers of Gilead, the Ammonite king, Jep's daughter, and the Ephraimites?
Have you ever acted like any of these or been in a situation where someone else has - perhaps you were on the receiving end:
* judged someone based on their exterior or their past?
* ignored the facts because it didn't fit your own plan?
* encouraged someone else to keep their word, regardless of the cost?
* tried to horn-in on the glory after all the hard work was done?
* stirred up controversy between family and friends?
In the end, there is much we can learn from Judges 10-12 about God and His relationship with us. He is our leader and defender. He uses the weak and the strong to deliver His people from their oppressors. Whether the oppressor be an invading army or sin, God wants us to call on Him to set us free.
Let the comments begin! What did you learn about yourself through these three chapters? Have you ever experienced a situation that was similar to any of these? I can't wait to read your comments!!
A note regarding weather: If the preschool is closed, we will not meet. If Denville school has a delay, I will cannot arrive until after 10, in which case I will notify everyone via e-mail, so please check before heading out. If you can be there before that, please start without me! Always consider your comfort level driving in the current weather/road conditions. Safety First!
Looking Ahead: After Java with the Judges, we will return to My One Word by Mike Ashcraft and Rachel Olsen. For some this will be the first time and others it will be a second visit. I am excited to do this again! I have found that reading a book or doing a Bible study the 2nd and 3rd time, while different from the first, is no less inspiring and informative. We will begin the new study on February 28th. This is a fast, 4-week study with video introductions each Friday. This is appropriate for everyone, whether you are just starting your faith journey, well into it, or still asking questions. It's the perfect opportunity to bring a friend!
Stay warm and safe in snowy north Jersey!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
honey
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Thursday, January 30, 2014
Java with the Judges - Week 3
"The angel of the Lord appeared to him and said, "Mighty hero, the Lord is with you!"... Then the Lord turned to him (Gideon) and said, "Go with the strength you have and rescue Israel from the Midianites. I am sending you!" ". Judges 6:12,14
This is the Gideon that I remember from my childhood stories: the mighty warrior who defeated God's enemies with only 300 men! So, as I re-read this story, in it's entirety, my jaw hit the ground more than once. I was flabbergasted to read that Gideon questioned God over and over again. That he doubted and was afraid, both of the people and of what God was telling him to do. I just couldn't believe Gideon was so - human!
I was also taken aback by the violence of the whole story! This I had to deal with first because, for me, it interfered with understanding God's message. Knowing that this is an historical book of the Bible and these events took place, does not lessen the importance of it's relevance for us today. So, I started to read this as an allegory. It's not, but it certainly helped me to make the leap from the physical world of Gideon to the spiritual implications for today. An aside: in chapter 7, verse 5-7 the NET translation reads a little differently than some other translations. The short version is that God chose the men who lapped water from their cupped hands rather than the ones who drank directly from the water. As always, if the NET translation raises a question, read another translation or two for clarification.
Keeping the focus on Gideon - his character, his actions, his conversations with the messenger of the Lord and with God - allowed me to see myself in this story. It also helped me to see more clearly how God works! He called the youngest member of the weakest clan, a coward and doubter, to be a great warrior and spiritual leader!
Sandra Glahn, through her questions, keeps bringing us back to the important part of studying the Bible: how do we fit into it and what can we learn about our own spiritual lives? Some of the questions this week are personal, using Gideon and his life as a spring board to examine our own lives. It is crucial to spend time reflecting on these more personal inquiries - this is where our journey takes place.
Gideon's God is our God! Reading Judges 6-9 with that foremost in our minds, we should ask ourselves a few questions:
Where do I see myself in this story? Is there any part of it to which I can relate?
Is God telling me to do something I'd rather not? What is it and how have I reacted?
What questions do I have for Him?
How can God use what I (society) consider to be a weakness to glorify Him?
How can I avoid falling back into a sin that God has helped me to overcome?
I hope you mustered some strength to read through these challenging chapters! I know I needed to reach deep to digest it, and there are still parts I just can't 'get over'.
Comment below (go to the website if you're reading this in your e-mail) - I'd love to read your reaction to Gideon's story! Can you relate? If so, how? And if not, why not?
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
honey
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
This is the Gideon that I remember from my childhood stories: the mighty warrior who defeated God's enemies with only 300 men! So, as I re-read this story, in it's entirety, my jaw hit the ground more than once. I was flabbergasted to read that Gideon questioned God over and over again. That he doubted and was afraid, both of the people and of what God was telling him to do. I just couldn't believe Gideon was so - human!
I was also taken aback by the violence of the whole story! This I had to deal with first because, for me, it interfered with understanding God's message. Knowing that this is an historical book of the Bible and these events took place, does not lessen the importance of it's relevance for us today. So, I started to read this as an allegory. It's not, but it certainly helped me to make the leap from the physical world of Gideon to the spiritual implications for today. An aside: in chapter 7, verse 5-7 the NET translation reads a little differently than some other translations. The short version is that God chose the men who lapped water from their cupped hands rather than the ones who drank directly from the water. As always, if the NET translation raises a question, read another translation or two for clarification.
Keeping the focus on Gideon - his character, his actions, his conversations with the messenger of the Lord and with God - allowed me to see myself in this story. It also helped me to see more clearly how God works! He called the youngest member of the weakest clan, a coward and doubter, to be a great warrior and spiritual leader!
Sandra Glahn, through her questions, keeps bringing us back to the important part of studying the Bible: how do we fit into it and what can we learn about our own spiritual lives? Some of the questions this week are personal, using Gideon and his life as a spring board to examine our own lives. It is crucial to spend time reflecting on these more personal inquiries - this is where our journey takes place.
Gideon's God is our God! Reading Judges 6-9 with that foremost in our minds, we should ask ourselves a few questions:
Where do I see myself in this story? Is there any part of it to which I can relate?
Is God telling me to do something I'd rather not? What is it and how have I reacted?
What questions do I have for Him?
How can God use what I (society) consider to be a weakness to glorify Him?
How can I avoid falling back into a sin that God has helped me to overcome?
I hope you mustered some strength to read through these challenging chapters! I know I needed to reach deep to digest it, and there are still parts I just can't 'get over'.
Comment below (go to the website if you're reading this in your e-mail) - I'd love to read your reaction to Gideon's story! Can you relate? If so, how? And if not, why not?
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
honey
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
Java with the Judges - Week 2
"Deborah, the wife of Lappidoth, was a prophet who had become a judge in Israel. She would hold court under the Palm of Deborah, which stood between Ramah and Bethel in the hill country of Ephraim, and the Israelites came to her to settle their disputes." Judges 4:4-5 NLT
Wow! What a loaded description of this woman! Unfortunately, some of the descriptors are lost in translation. Below is a link to an article that fills in some of these gaps.
My first thoughts when I read Judges 4 & 5 were: how did she become Judge? It seems backwards from the other stories of the Judges; I thought a Judge was raised up after the people cried out for help, but Deborah was already leading them (4:3-4). And if that's the case why isn't Barak or Jael the Judge? Or why wasn't Doborah the one victorious in battle like the other Judges? What is the deal with Barak son of Abinoam from Kedesh in Naphtali?! And so many more!
As I worked through the study questions each day, an understanding started to break through. I read and re-read some of the passages and went to my favorite translation, the New Living Translation, and read it again. I encourage you to do the same. If you're just not "getting it" with the translation in the study guide, try your favorite translation or go to www.Biblegateway.com and choose a different translation. That and the foot notes in my study Bible helped to shed light on what was going on during this time in Israel's history and specifically during this fierce battle.
But that still wasn't enough for me! I Googled 'Deborah the Judge' and found some very interesting information - stuff that really got me excited about Deborah and what this story means for me, a 21st Century woman! Click here to read an informative article by Tikva Frymer-Kensky (1943-2006), who was a professor of Hebrew Bible at the Divinity School at the University of Chicago. It's well written and not very long.
Let me whet your curiosity with this: according to Frymer-Kensky, "the wife of Lappidoth" (4:4) can be translated as "wife of Lapidot", but it also means "woman of torches" or "fiery woman". That certainly adds depth to Deborah's personality! She also tells us that "Her weapon is the word, and her very name is an anagram of "she spoke" (dibberah)". Please, please, please read the article - it's worth it!!
Another tool that I found useful was a map I found in my Bible. The study guide map only shows the territories of the Tribes and Judges. When I looked at a map with more detail, with the places in this story marked (the cities, Mount Tabor, and the Kishon River), along with the Tribes and Judges, I started to get a clearer picture of the enorimity of the battle and the importance of Deborah's leadership.
I especially like this map. Zoom in to see the city & river names.
Deborah is not the only interesting character in this story! Barak and Jael can teach us a thing or two, too! Keep reading the study guide and working through the questions and pray for understanding and insight. And it's okay to read Saturday, Sandra's summary, before the end of the week :)
Comments: I love 'em! How are you doing with the book of Judges so far? What message do you hear from the story of Deborah? Which version of the story do you like better: Judges 4, the prose telling or Judges 5, the poetic song?
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
honey
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Wow! What a loaded description of this woman! Unfortunately, some of the descriptors are lost in translation. Below is a link to an article that fills in some of these gaps.
My first thoughts when I read Judges 4 & 5 were: how did she become Judge? It seems backwards from the other stories of the Judges; I thought a Judge was raised up after the people cried out for help, but Deborah was already leading them (4:3-4). And if that's the case why isn't Barak or Jael the Judge? Or why wasn't Doborah the one victorious in battle like the other Judges? What is the deal with Barak son of Abinoam from Kedesh in Naphtali?! And so many more!
As I worked through the study questions each day, an understanding started to break through. I read and re-read some of the passages and went to my favorite translation, the New Living Translation, and read it again. I encourage you to do the same. If you're just not "getting it" with the translation in the study guide, try your favorite translation or go to www.Biblegateway.com and choose a different translation. That and the foot notes in my study Bible helped to shed light on what was going on during this time in Israel's history and specifically during this fierce battle.
But that still wasn't enough for me! I Googled 'Deborah the Judge' and found some very interesting information - stuff that really got me excited about Deborah and what this story means for me, a 21st Century woman! Click here to read an informative article by Tikva Frymer-Kensky (1943-2006), who was a professor of Hebrew Bible at the Divinity School at the University of Chicago. It's well written and not very long.
Let me whet your curiosity with this: according to Frymer-Kensky, "the wife of Lappidoth" (4:4) can be translated as "wife of Lapidot", but it also means "woman of torches" or "fiery woman". That certainly adds depth to Deborah's personality! She also tells us that "Her weapon is the word, and her very name is an anagram of "she spoke" (dibberah)". Please, please, please read the article - it's worth it!!
Another tool that I found useful was a map I found in my Bible. The study guide map only shows the territories of the Tribes and Judges. When I looked at a map with more detail, with the places in this story marked (the cities, Mount Tabor, and the Kishon River), along with the Tribes and Judges, I started to get a clearer picture of the enorimity of the battle and the importance of Deborah's leadership.
I especially like this map. Zoom in to see the city & river names.
Deborah is not the only interesting character in this story! Barak and Jael can teach us a thing or two, too! Keep reading the study guide and working through the questions and pray for understanding and insight. And it's okay to read Saturday, Sandra's summary, before the end of the week :)
Comments: I love 'em! How are you doing with the book of Judges so far? What message do you hear from the story of Deborah? Which version of the story do you like better: Judges 4, the prose telling or Judges 5, the poetic song?
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
honey
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
Java with the Judges - Week 1
"Whenever the Lord placed a judge over Israel, he was with that judge and rescued the people from their enemies throughout the judge's lifetime. For the Lord took pity on his people, who were burdened by oppression and suffering." Judges 2:18 New Living Translation
Welcome to the first week of our new study, Java with the Judges, by Sandra Glahn! I'm so excited that you are here!
Let me encourage you to read the Introductions on page ix and xiii-xvi. Here you will find valuable insight into the study, helpful chart of the Judges, map, and "The Cycle of Misery". The study book includes almost all of the Scripture that you will need and is broken up into daily readings & questions. Feel free to use the study in a way that best suits your schedule! You don't need to read 'Monday' on Monday, but do read it in order. Also note that we will discuss the entire week (Sun-Sat), during our Friday morning group session. My last note about the study itself: Ms. Glahn uses the NET Bible translation. I personally am not familiar with it, but so far it seems to be okay. If you prefer to use a translation that you are more comfortable with, then please do. As we found in previous studies, it's often a good idea to read different translations of the same passage, as different schools of translating use different philosophies, etc. For instance, I love my New Living Translation Bible, so I used it for the openeing Scripture. You'll notice it is different than the NET translation, but not significantly.
This first week (the first three books of Judges) introduces us to 4 of Israel's Judges. There are lots of names of people and places! Don't get hung up on them :)
If you find the proper nouns are giving you trouble, here's some helpful tips:
* shorten the name or use a nick-name
* use initials
* replace the unprouncable name with something similar, but familiar
* you can try this online prouncination guide, click here . It doesn't include all of the names.
The chart and map are helpful to keep track of what's going on, too. There aren't many details about the people, places, or battles, so we'll have to use our imiganations a little bit. But the details aren't the important part of this particular study.
The daily questions will help us focus on individuals, relationships and we'll start to see a pattern between God and His people emerge. What can these stories mean for us in 21st century America? Is there a corrolation to our world, society, or communities?
What does any of it mean for us personally? How can stories about conquest in ancient, foreign lands possibly have any meaning to us individually? Although reading stories of brave warriors can be quite exciting, it's in asking these questions that will provide insight, exploration, and bring us to a deeper level of understanding the Love God has for us.
Enjoy your cup of java (or tea, soda, water) while delving into the ancient world of the Judges! Spend some time contemplating what it is God has to tell us through these stories.
I'd love to read your thoughts on our new study! Please comment below about Judges 1-3, the study guide, or anything that's on your mind as you're reading.
I am looking forward to sharing this journey through Judges with you!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
honey
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Welcome to the first week of our new study, Java with the Judges, by Sandra Glahn! I'm so excited that you are here!
Let me encourage you to read the Introductions on page ix and xiii-xvi. Here you will find valuable insight into the study, helpful chart of the Judges, map, and "The Cycle of Misery". The study book includes almost all of the Scripture that you will need and is broken up into daily readings & questions. Feel free to use the study in a way that best suits your schedule! You don't need to read 'Monday' on Monday, but do read it in order. Also note that we will discuss the entire week (Sun-Sat), during our Friday morning group session. My last note about the study itself: Ms. Glahn uses the NET Bible translation. I personally am not familiar with it, but so far it seems to be okay. If you prefer to use a translation that you are more comfortable with, then please do. As we found in previous studies, it's often a good idea to read different translations of the same passage, as different schools of translating use different philosophies, etc. For instance, I love my New Living Translation Bible, so I used it for the openeing Scripture. You'll notice it is different than the NET translation, but not significantly.
This first week (the first three books of Judges) introduces us to 4 of Israel's Judges. There are lots of names of people and places! Don't get hung up on them :)
If you find the proper nouns are giving you trouble, here's some helpful tips:
* shorten the name or use a nick-name
* use initials
* replace the unprouncable name with something similar, but familiar
* you can try this online prouncination guide, click here . It doesn't include all of the names.
The chart and map are helpful to keep track of what's going on, too. There aren't many details about the people, places, or battles, so we'll have to use our imiganations a little bit. But the details aren't the important part of this particular study.
The daily questions will help us focus on individuals, relationships and we'll start to see a pattern between God and His people emerge. What can these stories mean for us in 21st century America? Is there a corrolation to our world, society, or communities?
What does any of it mean for us personally? How can stories about conquest in ancient, foreign lands possibly have any meaning to us individually? Although reading stories of brave warriors can be quite exciting, it's in asking these questions that will provide insight, exploration, and bring us to a deeper level of understanding the Love God has for us.
Enjoy your cup of java (or tea, soda, water) while delving into the ancient world of the Judges! Spend some time contemplating what it is God has to tell us through these stories.
I'd love to read your thoughts on our new study! Please comment below about Judges 1-3, the study guide, or anything that's on your mind as you're reading.
I am looking forward to sharing this journey through Judges with you!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
honey
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
Happy New Year!
"Since God chose you to be the holy people whom he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. You must make allowance for each other's faults and forgive the person who offends you... And the most important piece of clothing you must wear is love. Love is what binds us all together in perfect harmony." Colossians 3:12-14
While I have fallen short of many goals I have set over the years, I can admit that I am a different person (hopefully improved) than I was in the past. The ongoing process is gradual, and I am still me with my flaws & issues & buttons that can be pushed, just a kinder, more accepting me (most of the time). Even my husband noticed, so it must be true! The way to truly bring out my better attributes and limit my negative responses was to rely on God. Rely on His promises, His guidance, His teachings, and His plan for my life. I don't always lovingly submit to Him or accept His challenges, but I try my best. Remembering His promises for me has been most reassuring during times of doubt, struggle, and just plain stubbornness. Remembering that God forgives my transgressions has encouraged me to return to His path when I stray, rather than totally giving up.
The passage from Colossians is a wonderful reminder of how we should train our attitude. It says that we are holy and chosen by God. WOW! I wish everyone could absorb that truth!!
It tells us how we should think and act towards each other every day. And in being kind, humble, gentle, patient, and merciful, by offering forgiveness and making allowances for each other, we also do those things for ourselves. How wonderful a world we would live in, if we could do even half of these consistently! And then there is Love, the most important command of all! It's what holds everything else in place. It does not allow pride, anger, or judgement to overtake us. Just imagine the changes that would take place if everyone chose even one word of this passage as their New Year's Resolution for 2014. And if not one of these words, another single word from The Word of God.
It's this idea of focusing on one word, supported by The Word, that we studied last April (My One Word, by Mike Ashcraft & Rachel Olsen). This focus has given me my greatest growth. As I work on viewing the world through just one word from Scripture, everything is starting to reflect a positive move towards being the person God created me to be.
If you make New Year's Resolutions, what is yours this year? I hope you share them in the Comment section below - I'd love to read about them!! I am continuing with my one word, honey, until Lent. But I have resolved to work more diligently on using my word to live the life God has designed for me.
Let me remind those who can meet, we are resuming our Friday morning gatherings this Friday, January 10th, at 9:15 am. We will be starting a new study, Java with the Judges by Sandra Glahn. The 10th will be a 'welcome back' and review, so no need to prepare anything for our first week back. This is the perfect opportunity to join us for the first time and to bring a friend!!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Happy New Year!
Tradition holds that this time of year we evaluate our lives and resolve to make changes for the coming year. I don't know about you, but I don't remember ever keeping a New Year's Resolution for more than a few weeks. Whether it be to live a more healthy lifestyle through diet & exercise, improve my finances, or to be more organized, my best efforts get swept up in the busy-ness of life, making it difficult to maintain new habits. There are endless systems, gurus, books, and gadgets that promise success. Have you tried them? Did they work? Life, it seems, is a series of trials-and-errors when it comes to changing or improving who we are. While I have fallen short of many goals I have set over the years, I can admit that I am a different person (hopefully improved) than I was in the past. The ongoing process is gradual, and I am still me with my flaws & issues & buttons that can be pushed, just a kinder, more accepting me (most of the time). Even my husband noticed, so it must be true! The way to truly bring out my better attributes and limit my negative responses was to rely on God. Rely on His promises, His guidance, His teachings, and His plan for my life. I don't always lovingly submit to Him or accept His challenges, but I try my best. Remembering His promises for me has been most reassuring during times of doubt, struggle, and just plain stubbornness. Remembering that God forgives my transgressions has encouraged me to return to His path when I stray, rather than totally giving up.
The passage from Colossians is a wonderful reminder of how we should train our attitude. It says that we are holy and chosen by God. WOW! I wish everyone could absorb that truth!!
It tells us how we should think and act towards each other every day. And in being kind, humble, gentle, patient, and merciful, by offering forgiveness and making allowances for each other, we also do those things for ourselves. How wonderful a world we would live in, if we could do even half of these consistently! And then there is Love, the most important command of all! It's what holds everything else in place. It does not allow pride, anger, or judgement to overtake us. Just imagine the changes that would take place if everyone chose even one word of this passage as their New Year's Resolution for 2014. And if not one of these words, another single word from The Word of God.
It's this idea of focusing on one word, supported by The Word, that we studied last April (My One Word, by Mike Ashcraft & Rachel Olsen). This focus has given me my greatest growth. As I work on viewing the world through just one word from Scripture, everything is starting to reflect a positive move towards being the person God created me to be.
If you make New Year's Resolutions, what is yours this year? I hope you share them in the Comment section below - I'd love to read about them!! I am continuing with my one word, honey, until Lent. But I have resolved to work more diligently on using my word to live the life God has designed for me.
I cannot express fully the gratitude I have for each of you who read this blog or attend the Friday gatherings.
It is your gracious and loving support that gives me courage to continue to write and lead a Bible study. Thank you for your prayers, your words, and your attendance. You make my heart sing with praise!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Thursday, December 5, 2013
"My One Word" revisited
"Kind words are like honey; sweet to the soul and healing for the body." Proverbs 16:24
If you have been reading this blog or received an e-mail from me in the last 9 months, the verse above will be a familiar one. It's the verse I chose that includes my word in a way that is significant to me.
My word is HONEY! I know, it's kind of an odd word, but I'm kind of an odd person when it comes to words :) I love everything about this word: from it's literal state of a food to it's symbolism in Scripture. I even like that there is a not-so-nice side to honey, because, well, there's a not so-nice-side to me. But I am getting ahead of myself... let me go back and tell you how I chose that word.
When I first heard of My One Word, by Mike Ashcraft and Rachel Olsen, I went onto the website (click here to visit it) to see what it was all about. I decided I would choose a word before I read the book, based on what I read and listened to on the site. That didn't work out too well - I completely forgot the word I chose! To this day, I don't remember what it was. For me, that was a confirmation that what I thought was something I had to 'work on' wasn't what God had in mind. I chose a word based on what I wanted to fix about myself and it was a good one (I do remember that), but without God's Word to build upon, it wasn't going to stick!
So, I started reading the book during our study. I followed the advice of making lists and refining my list, though again, I didn't quite do it in the order suggested. In the end it was the word honey that appeared. My description of honey (and it's makers) was everything I felt I should be/wanted to be: translucent but not transparent, natural, slower moving, sweet, healthy, useful, food for others, rely on God (scientifically, bees shouldn't be able to fly, but they do by the grace of God). I want to be like that! Even the not-so-nice things about honey spoke to me: chewed up-spit out & still beautiful, made & protected by bees that can sting, a hidden treasure, it's not for everyone. Discovering my word was a process (just as making honey is) and I felt drawn to this idea of being like honey. I was surprised by the number of times the word appears in scripture, but my area of need was in relation to words. I use them, I love them, but too often I misuse them in hurtful ways. THAT is not what God intended. God intended that I use my gift with words in a kind & nurturing way. Armed with my one word and it's corresponding Scripture, I started moving towards the person God created me to be.
As Mike suggests in the book, I put my word in front of me daily. At first I ate a spoonful of honey every morning. I added it to my tea and on my toast. This was a very physical way to ingest the Word and make it real. Soon after that, I added it as my e-mail signature. This has served to remind me with every e-mail I write, to be kind. One of the ways my word has morphed (chapter 7) is that I am also reminded to be kind to myself. When I am dealing with someone who has hurt me or my family, I am as kind as I can be, without being false. I guard my heart by saying how I feel without being cruel. How others choose to interpret my words is up to them. And in the same manner, I squelch that critical inner voice that can be my biggest opponent. Using kind words to heal myself has been a soothing balm.
Here's a few more ways My One Word has influenced my life:
It causes me to rethink how I respond to people & situations.
I choose a slower path when making decisions.
I rely on God to change me.
My view of how others use words & react has been enhanced.
I choose my words more wisely.
I try, really hard, to be kind.
When I am overwhelmed or at a loss for ideas, I focus on my word, and I am inspired.
Am I completely transformed? Do I never say mean things? Am I unendingly supportive & encouraging? Do I control all my reactions to people & situations?
Not by a long shot!! It is an ongoing process. But I am moving forward, improving how I use my words every day. Even when I have a moment, day, or week where I seem to be going backwards, I am reminded through my word, that there is beauty in things that have been chewed up and spit out, as long as those things are created and nurtured by God.
How has your word changed you, your view of the world, and your faith journey? I am sorry to have to miss our gathering this Friday and hear how your One Word has worked transformations in your life. I would love to know how this is going for you - please share in the comment section below.
"The eyes of our heart, once enlightened - to borrow a phrase from Paul - show us a reality that our physical eyes cannot see. A reality based on the words and promises of God. " Mike Ashcraft, My One Word p. 107
"Change is possible. Focus is required. And depenence on God is absolutely foundational." Mike Ashcraft, My One Word p 40-41.
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
"Kind words are like honey; sweet to the soul and healing for the body." Proverbs 16:24
If you have been reading this blog or received an e-mail from me in the last 9 months, the verse above will be a familiar one. It's the verse I chose that includes my word in a way that is significant to me.
My word is HONEY! I know, it's kind of an odd word, but I'm kind of an odd person when it comes to words :) I love everything about this word: from it's literal state of a food to it's symbolism in Scripture. I even like that there is a not-so-nice side to honey, because, well, there's a not so-nice-side to me. But I am getting ahead of myself... let me go back and tell you how I chose that word.
When I first heard of My One Word, by Mike Ashcraft and Rachel Olsen, I went onto the website (click here to visit it) to see what it was all about. I decided I would choose a word before I read the book, based on what I read and listened to on the site. That didn't work out too well - I completely forgot the word I chose! To this day, I don't remember what it was. For me, that was a confirmation that what I thought was something I had to 'work on' wasn't what God had in mind. I chose a word based on what I wanted to fix about myself and it was a good one (I do remember that), but without God's Word to build upon, it wasn't going to stick!
So, I started reading the book during our study. I followed the advice of making lists and refining my list, though again, I didn't quite do it in the order suggested. In the end it was the word honey that appeared. My description of honey (and it's makers) was everything I felt I should be/wanted to be: translucent but not transparent, natural, slower moving, sweet, healthy, useful, food for others, rely on God (scientifically, bees shouldn't be able to fly, but they do by the grace of God). I want to be like that! Even the not-so-nice things about honey spoke to me: chewed up-spit out & still beautiful, made & protected by bees that can sting, a hidden treasure, it's not for everyone. Discovering my word was a process (just as making honey is) and I felt drawn to this idea of being like honey. I was surprised by the number of times the word appears in scripture, but my area of need was in relation to words. I use them, I love them, but too often I misuse them in hurtful ways. THAT is not what God intended. God intended that I use my gift with words in a kind & nurturing way. Armed with my one word and it's corresponding Scripture, I started moving towards the person God created me to be.
As Mike suggests in the book, I put my word in front of me daily. At first I ate a spoonful of honey every morning. I added it to my tea and on my toast. This was a very physical way to ingest the Word and make it real. Soon after that, I added it as my e-mail signature. This has served to remind me with every e-mail I write, to be kind. One of the ways my word has morphed (chapter 7) is that I am also reminded to be kind to myself. When I am dealing with someone who has hurt me or my family, I am as kind as I can be, without being false. I guard my heart by saying how I feel without being cruel. How others choose to interpret my words is up to them. And in the same manner, I squelch that critical inner voice that can be my biggest opponent. Using kind words to heal myself has been a soothing balm.
Here's a few more ways My One Word has influenced my life:
It causes me to rethink how I respond to people & situations.
I choose a slower path when making decisions.
I rely on God to change me.
My view of how others use words & react has been enhanced.
I choose my words more wisely.
I try, really hard, to be kind.
When I am overwhelmed or at a loss for ideas, I focus on my word, and I am inspired.
Am I completely transformed? Do I never say mean things? Am I unendingly supportive & encouraging? Do I control all my reactions to people & situations?
Not by a long shot!! It is an ongoing process. But I am moving forward, improving how I use my words every day. Even when I have a moment, day, or week where I seem to be going backwards, I am reminded through my word, that there is beauty in things that have been chewed up and spit out, as long as those things are created and nurtured by God.
How has your word changed you, your view of the world, and your faith journey? I am sorry to have to miss our gathering this Friday and hear how your One Word has worked transformations in your life. I would love to know how this is going for you - please share in the comment section below.
"The eyes of our heart, once enlightened - to borrow a phrase from Paul - show us a reality that our physical eyes cannot see. A reality based on the words and promises of God. " Mike Ashcraft, My One Word p. 107
"Change is possible. Focus is required. And depenence on God is absolutely foundational." Mike Ashcraft, My One Word p 40-41.
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
"Kind words are like honey; sweet to the soul and healing for the body." Proverbs 16:24
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