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
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
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
Friday, August 15, 2014
Our Summer Read Along - Interrupted!
"These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up." Deuteronomy 6:6-7 NIV
Thank you for joining me on the summer read along! I apologize for being MIA on the blog, but the summer has not gone as planned and 'my time' was almost non-existent! I hope you enjoyed the book. What did you like most? Have you explored any other writing by Suzanne Woods Fisher? I now follow her on Twitter and Instagram and always enjoy her posts.
Unfortunately, I have yet to locate my missing book, so I am at a loss to talk about the last section. I'm sure it's around here somewhere... Please share your thoughts about the last part of the book (or the entire book, for that matter) in the Comment section below. Don't forget, if you're reading this in your e-mail, click here to go to the blog to leave your comment. I can't wait to read what you discovered in the pages of our book!
One of the aspects of Amish life that resonates with me is the idea that their faith is not a separate part of their lives. They live their faith every day - it's in their homes, their work, their relationships - it's a natural part of the fabric of their lives and their community. It's not to say that they don't have troubles, flaws, or questions, they have many of the same personal struggles and temptations we do.
It reminds me of Deuteronomy 6: 6-7 (the opening verse). Grab your Bible (or your Bible app) and look up the verse to see more fully the context in which it is spoken. Moses is speaking to the people of Israel just after he gives them the Ten Commandments. He's telling them, and us, that we are to obey God all day, every day. Not just when we are in trouble or on the Sabbath, but always. Our faith is within us and is to be within everything we do and say and how we live.
When God's word is in our hearts and blankets our lives, we are often able to see and hear God in everyday situations. Here's a link to a Proverb's 31 devotion that is a wonderful example of how an everyday situation revealed God's word in the author's life. Have you ever encountered a faith moment in the grocery store line? How about in a song, not a hymn or Christian song, a secular song? Or a novel? I have an aunt, uncle, and cousin who think the Harry Potter books are satanic because their pastor told them they were. I, however, devoured them (and the movies) and read them to my children. We own all the books, movies, and even a few wands, and are planning our second trip to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter because I saw lessons of the great power of Love, Faith, and Forgiveness in the pages of those books. When my family talks about the books we are reading or the music we listen to, we talk about the message that is being conveyed and how that fits into our family's values & our faith. It's never anything fancy or pious, just regular conversations. It's what works for us and how, as a parent, I follow Moses' advice.
It's paramount to be a part of a faith community, to attend church on Sunday, to meet regularly together to learn and discuss the Word of God with each other and to be the Body of Christ. But it is important too, to have the commands of God written on our hearts, to teach them and talk about them daily, to knit them into the fabric of our lives, and to be open to seeing God and hearing God every day.
How do you see and hear God every day? And how do you pass this on to the young people in your life? Sharing how you do this will encourage all of us and give us new ideas on how to live our faith and follow God's commands every day.
Thank you all for your patience and understanding of my erratic posting and total derailment (through misplacing my book) of the summer read-along. Truly, I hope you enjoyed the book. This was my second reading, and even so, I am disappointed that I could not finish reading it this time around.
Enjoy the last few weeks of summer! I will be announcing our Fall study as soon as I figure out what it is (yes, I'm THAT far behind)!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
Warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Thank you for joining me on the summer read along! I apologize for being MIA on the blog, but the summer has not gone as planned and 'my time' was almost non-existent! I hope you enjoyed the book. What did you like most? Have you explored any other writing by Suzanne Woods Fisher? I now follow her on Twitter and Instagram and always enjoy her posts.
Unfortunately, I have yet to locate my missing book, so I am at a loss to talk about the last section. I'm sure it's around here somewhere... Please share your thoughts about the last part of the book (or the entire book, for that matter) in the Comment section below. Don't forget, if you're reading this in your e-mail, click here to go to the blog to leave your comment. I can't wait to read what you discovered in the pages of our book!
One of the aspects of Amish life that resonates with me is the idea that their faith is not a separate part of their lives. They live their faith every day - it's in their homes, their work, their relationships - it's a natural part of the fabric of their lives and their community. It's not to say that they don't have troubles, flaws, or questions, they have many of the same personal struggles and temptations we do.
It reminds me of Deuteronomy 6: 6-7 (the opening verse). Grab your Bible (or your Bible app) and look up the verse to see more fully the context in which it is spoken. Moses is speaking to the people of Israel just after he gives them the Ten Commandments. He's telling them, and us, that we are to obey God all day, every day. Not just when we are in trouble or on the Sabbath, but always. Our faith is within us and is to be within everything we do and say and how we live.
When God's word is in our hearts and blankets our lives, we are often able to see and hear God in everyday situations. Here's a link to a Proverb's 31 devotion that is a wonderful example of how an everyday situation revealed God's word in the author's life. Have you ever encountered a faith moment in the grocery store line? How about in a song, not a hymn or Christian song, a secular song? Or a novel? I have an aunt, uncle, and cousin who think the Harry Potter books are satanic because their pastor told them they were. I, however, devoured them (and the movies) and read them to my children. We own all the books, movies, and even a few wands, and are planning our second trip to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter because I saw lessons of the great power of Love, Faith, and Forgiveness in the pages of those books. When my family talks about the books we are reading or the music we listen to, we talk about the message that is being conveyed and how that fits into our family's values & our faith. It's never anything fancy or pious, just regular conversations. It's what works for us and how, as a parent, I follow Moses' advice.
It's paramount to be a part of a faith community, to attend church on Sunday, to meet regularly together to learn and discuss the Word of God with each other and to be the Body of Christ. But it is important too, to have the commands of God written on our hearts, to teach them and talk about them daily, to knit them into the fabric of our lives, and to be open to seeing God and hearing God every day.
How do you see and hear God every day? And how do you pass this on to the young people in your life? Sharing how you do this will encourage all of us and give us new ideas on how to live our faith and follow God's commands every day.
Thank you all for your patience and understanding of my erratic posting and total derailment (through misplacing my book) of the summer read-along. Truly, I hope you enjoyed the book. This was my second reading, and even so, I am disappointed that I could not finish reading it this time around.
Enjoy the last few weeks of summer! I will be announcing our Fall study as soon as I figure out what it is (yes, I'm THAT far behind)!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
Warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Monday, July 14, 2014
Our Summer Read-a-Long Continues
"A happy home is more than a roof over your head, it's a foundation under your feet." ~ Amish Proverb
Hello! Thanks for joining me on the summer read, Amish Values for Your Family, by Suzanne Woods Fisher. How do you like the book so far? I just love reading the short stories about a lifestyle that is different from my own and discovering that we are not as shockingly different as I at first thought.
In the spirit of full disclosure, I did grow up in Pennsylvania; York County to be specific. We didn't know any Amish or Mennonite families, but there were Mennonite families in the area. Lancaster, where many Amish farms & communities are, was only a short drive away. And I know that my great grandmothers did many things the way the Amish do them, sharing many of the same family values, work ethic, and child rearing philosophies. These have filtered down and watered down through my family over the years, but I have to admit, in my heart of hearts I yearn for a less cluttered life. And I don't mean less busy or easier or void of all modern conveniences. I think what's coming to light for me is a desire for a more focused & satisfied life - whatever that means or whatever that looks like! I'd imagine it's not the same as my Amish counterpart. Happily, I think most days I am heading in the right direction.
What story or idea spoke to you? It's difficult for me to choose just one... I think it's the overall ideas of child rearing that speak the loudest to me. Here are some things that caught my attention from Section One:
* Children are important and need to be involved in all aspects of family life from a young age. However, the family (and the world) should not revolve around a child or the children. I really like this because when children are involved in family life from a young age, their love for helping, doing, and learning comes to light. And 'work' and 'learning' aren't dreadful things, they are just a natural part of life.
* Sometimes it's not about the money spent or saved. Taking longer to do something because it's a learning experience and an opportunity to bond with your child is always worth the extra time and money! The story about the rabbit hutch (page 19) is a perfect example of this. We've had a similar story taking place in our own backyard this summer. We purchased a new cedar play structure for our youngest daughter and decided to put it together ourselves. It's hard work, complicated, and slow going but it has been an opportunity for my husband and son to build something together.
* Don't get frazzled when things don't go as planned or expected or hoped. This one is easier said than done, but worth it's weight in gold!
* The Amish do not yell at their children! Children are generally quiet, even when playing, as compared to English children. I think there is a direct correlation here. :)
* And the children learn chores, manners, social norms and how to behave from their parents, older siblings, and grandparents. While I don't think children should be sheltered from outside influences, it's nice not to have to fight the media on a child's expectations of what is 'normal'.
* The Amish have a strong connection to nature. I share this value with my children, too. When there's a strong connection to nature, it fosters caring, nurturing, and understanding for others, for the planet, and for those who cannot speak for themselves (animals & plants). Raising and/or caring for animals or planting and tending a garden offers endless opportunities for growth and understanding about ourselves and the world around us. No game, book, movie, or classroom can equal the lessons learned through experiences with nature!
I'd love to hear what is coming to light for you! How are you like the Amish? Are you incorporating any ideas from the book into your life? Do you have a favorite Amish Proverb? I can't wait to hear all about it in the Comment section!!!
One way I have had the pleasure of bringing some Amish life into my own is through Amish Friendship Bread. If you don't know what it is, ask me in the Comments and I'll explain it more, but here I'll skip right to the good part. I currently have many loaves in my freezer, along with 8 starters and 12 batches of batter! My freezers are overflowing with Amish Friendship Bread!! But through this abundance I have discovered a wonderful website, Friendship Bread Kitchen! It is filled with delicious recipes so I will never run out of things to make with my batter. My latest creations, Root Beer AFB & AFB Chocolate Chip Pancakes (aka Monster Cakes because we make them huge) are big hits with my family! And she writes novels, too! More books to put on my must-read list!
If you would like a bag of batter, let me know in the Comment section and I'll get it to you! Either way, check out the website! You will want some!!
Wishing you all a lovely week. And remember, "The forest would be quiet if no birds sang except the best." ~ Amish Proverb
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Hello! Thanks for joining me on the summer read, Amish Values for Your Family, by Suzanne Woods Fisher. How do you like the book so far? I just love reading the short stories about a lifestyle that is different from my own and discovering that we are not as shockingly different as I at first thought.
In the spirit of full disclosure, I did grow up in Pennsylvania; York County to be specific. We didn't know any Amish or Mennonite families, but there were Mennonite families in the area. Lancaster, where many Amish farms & communities are, was only a short drive away. And I know that my great grandmothers did many things the way the Amish do them, sharing many of the same family values, work ethic, and child rearing philosophies. These have filtered down and watered down through my family over the years, but I have to admit, in my heart of hearts I yearn for a less cluttered life. And I don't mean less busy or easier or void of all modern conveniences. I think what's coming to light for me is a desire for a more focused & satisfied life - whatever that means or whatever that looks like! I'd imagine it's not the same as my Amish counterpart. Happily, I think most days I am heading in the right direction.
What story or idea spoke to you? It's difficult for me to choose just one... I think it's the overall ideas of child rearing that speak the loudest to me. Here are some things that caught my attention from Section One:
* Children are important and need to be involved in all aspects of family life from a young age. However, the family (and the world) should not revolve around a child or the children. I really like this because when children are involved in family life from a young age, their love for helping, doing, and learning comes to light. And 'work' and 'learning' aren't dreadful things, they are just a natural part of life.
* Sometimes it's not about the money spent or saved. Taking longer to do something because it's a learning experience and an opportunity to bond with your child is always worth the extra time and money! The story about the rabbit hutch (page 19) is a perfect example of this. We've had a similar story taking place in our own backyard this summer. We purchased a new cedar play structure for our youngest daughter and decided to put it together ourselves. It's hard work, complicated, and slow going but it has been an opportunity for my husband and son to build something together.
* Don't get frazzled when things don't go as planned or expected or hoped. This one is easier said than done, but worth it's weight in gold!
* The Amish do not yell at their children! Children are generally quiet, even when playing, as compared to English children. I think there is a direct correlation here. :)
* And the children learn chores, manners, social norms and how to behave from their parents, older siblings, and grandparents. While I don't think children should be sheltered from outside influences, it's nice not to have to fight the media on a child's expectations of what is 'normal'.
* The Amish have a strong connection to nature. I share this value with my children, too. When there's a strong connection to nature, it fosters caring, nurturing, and understanding for others, for the planet, and for those who cannot speak for themselves (animals & plants). Raising and/or caring for animals or planting and tending a garden offers endless opportunities for growth and understanding about ourselves and the world around us. No game, book, movie, or classroom can equal the lessons learned through experiences with nature!
I'd love to hear what is coming to light for you! How are you like the Amish? Are you incorporating any ideas from the book into your life? Do you have a favorite Amish Proverb? I can't wait to hear all about it in the Comment section!!!
One way I have had the pleasure of bringing some Amish life into my own is through Amish Friendship Bread. If you don't know what it is, ask me in the Comments and I'll explain it more, but here I'll skip right to the good part. I currently have many loaves in my freezer, along with 8 starters and 12 batches of batter! My freezers are overflowing with Amish Friendship Bread!! But through this abundance I have discovered a wonderful website, Friendship Bread Kitchen! It is filled with delicious recipes so I will never run out of things to make with my batter. My latest creations, Root Beer AFB & AFB Chocolate Chip Pancakes (aka Monster Cakes because we make them huge) are big hits with my family! And she writes novels, too! More books to put on my must-read list!
If you would like a bag of batter, let me know in the Comment section and I'll get it to you! Either way, check out the website! You will want some!!
Wishing you all a lovely week. And remember, "The forest would be quiet if no birds sang except the best." ~ Amish Proverb
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
A Summer Read-A-Long!
"The kind of ancestors you have is not as important as the ones your children have." ~ Amish Proverb
Welcome Back! Oh, how I have missed you! Thanks for joining me on the summer read-a-long. I am very excited to get started on Amish Values for Your Family.
The month of June was so busy for my family it will be a welcome respite to delve into a book about slowing down and keeping family close. Over the next four weeks we'll take a peek into the Amish and Mennonite (Anabaptist) lifestyles and how we can embrace some aspects of the simple life. Our author, Suzanne Woods Fisher, writes both fiction and non-fiction books, has a website click here to go to her site, and hosts a blog click here. She and her family also raise puppies for Guide Dogs! Her website & blog are wonderfully inspiring. You can follow her on Facebook and Twitter! Kind of ironic considering she writes about a lifestyle that avoids or limits modern influences :) But, I am glad she is so connected and accessible! I hope you will visit her sites or follow her, if you are on Facebook or Twitter, and read some of her novels. And be sure to Comment about what you're reading! I'd love to hear about her other works.
Each of the four sections has a theme and is filled with short stories (3-4 pages) around that theme, starts with an Amish Proverb (my personal favorite), includes some advice on how we can incorporate an Amish value into our busy lives, and ends with "In their own words...", quotes from The Budget, a weekly newspaper for the Amish-Mennonite community. It's a quick, easy read that will enlighten and inspire - perfect for summer reading!
The first section, Children Are Loved but Not Adored, includes memories of Amish childhood and what made it so special. Being inspired by that, please share in the comments something that made your childhood special. It might be a particular family tradition, a one-time summer trip, or quiet time with family. To take it one step further, ask your children what favorite memory they have from their childhood. Whether they are still in their childhood or grown, you just may be surprised at their most beloved memories!
I look forward to reading your special childhood memories!
"The best things in life are not things." ~ Amish Proverb
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
Warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Welcome Back! Oh, how I have missed you! Thanks for joining me on the summer read-a-long. I am very excited to get started on Amish Values for Your Family.
The month of June was so busy for my family it will be a welcome respite to delve into a book about slowing down and keeping family close. Over the next four weeks we'll take a peek into the Amish and Mennonite (Anabaptist) lifestyles and how we can embrace some aspects of the simple life. Our author, Suzanne Woods Fisher, writes both fiction and non-fiction books, has a website click here to go to her site, and hosts a blog click here. She and her family also raise puppies for Guide Dogs! Her website & blog are wonderfully inspiring. You can follow her on Facebook and Twitter! Kind of ironic considering she writes about a lifestyle that avoids or limits modern influences :) But, I am glad she is so connected and accessible! I hope you will visit her sites or follow her, if you are on Facebook or Twitter, and read some of her novels. And be sure to Comment about what you're reading! I'd love to hear about her other works.
Each of the four sections has a theme and is filled with short stories (3-4 pages) around that theme, starts with an Amish Proverb (my personal favorite), includes some advice on how we can incorporate an Amish value into our busy lives, and ends with "In their own words...", quotes from The Budget, a weekly newspaper for the Amish-Mennonite community. It's a quick, easy read that will enlighten and inspire - perfect for summer reading!
The first section, Children Are Loved but Not Adored, includes memories of Amish childhood and what made it so special. Being inspired by that, please share in the comments something that made your childhood special. It might be a particular family tradition, a one-time summer trip, or quiet time with family. To take it one step further, ask your children what favorite memory they have from their childhood. Whether they are still in their childhood or grown, you just may be surprised at their most beloved memories!
I look forward to reading your special childhood memories!
"The best things in life are not things." ~ Amish Proverb
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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