Jesus replied, "If you only knew the gift God has for you and who I am, you would ask me, and I would give you living water." John 4:10 NLT
Have you ever been so thirsty that every pore seemed to scream for water? I'm not talking hot from laying on the beach, but a thirst so overwhelming that only complete submersion while drinking, will squelch it.
It's a terrible feeling, being so thirsty. It makes me wonder how I got that way! Did I really forget to drink all day long? The simple & obvious answer is 'yes'. On days like that, I'm focused on getting something done, preoccupied with a project, or running from one thing to another. Neglecting my daily need for food & water catches up with me in a very strong way around dinner time!
As we read the story about the Woman at the Well and Crystal, the waitress in the bar, we see two women who have neglected their daily spiritual needs. And in the course of their stories, Jesus catches up with them in a very real way. We know (because Jesus tells us) just how these women have come to be "bad girls"; they were neglecting themselves, turning to other means to fill a void that only Jesus can fill.
Oh how I can relate to that! Am I alone or have you felt that way, too? Turning to worldly things and seeking our worth from other people to fulfill the longing in our heart is how we can suddenly find ourselves spiritually "thirsty". Being busy with the day to day, running from one activity to another, completing one project after another, being a care giver, supporter, and general "jo friday" or "jackie of all trades" can leave us tired, depleted, and empty.
It can, but it doesn't have to! As Crystal and the Woman at the Well learned, when we seek the living water that Jesus has to offer, we will thirst no more. Filling the well of our soul with the living Water, the Word, frees us to be the women God created us to be. "Jesus replied, 'People soon become thirsty again after drinking this water. But the water I give them takes away thirst altogether. It becomes a perpetual spring within them giving them eternal life.'" John 4: 13-14
As you read this chapter, look for yourself in the story. With whom do you identify and why? Turn to the Study Guide questions at the back of the book, taking the time to answer the questions in your journal. Think in ink!
I would love to know the most important lesson you learned from another nameless woman, The Woman at the Well! If you are reading this in your e-mail, click here to go to the blog and leave a comment.
For some inspiration and entertainment, click here to listen to Casting Crowns, "The Well". Thanks Lisa!!!!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Monday, February 2, 2015
Thursday, January 22, 2015
Thinking about Lot's Wife
"16 When Lot still hesitated, the angels seized his hand and the hands of his wife and two daughters and rushed them to safety outside the city, for the Lord was merciful. 26 But Lot's wife looked back as she was following along behind him, and she became a pillar of salt." Genesis 19: 16, 26
"She'd almost grown accustomed to the faint smell of sulfur in the air. Dropping into the inviting porch chair, Lottie pointed herself toward the mountain and began rocking in a steady rhythm.. As the sky darkened, Lottie was lulled to sleep by the sounds of nature all around her and the assurance that when the sun rose, so would she..." Bad Girls of the Bible, pg 65.
Why are we so attached to our possessions? That's a question for the ages - obviously! Even way back in Genesis, Lot's wife, Lot, and their daughters, had a hard time leaving behind the life they built, despite the warnings of immanent danger and death. I'm not sure it was just the 'stuff' they mourned, but everything they knew: friends, memories, a way of life and all that is familiar. It's hard to leave that behind, even when we know it's for a better future.
My husband's job has moved us a few times over the last 20+ years of marriage. I'm the adventurous type, so I never really minded the prospect of living in a place where I didn't know anyone. Behind that spirit of adventure lies the fact that we'd be doing it together - we had each other. And, our stuff! In our new home, we would still be surrounded by the familiar. It's comforting that we could always 'take it with us'. Even once we had children, who were less eager to leave their friends, they found comfort in the fact that their stuff (their bed, their toys, their books, & pictures) would be waiting for them at the new place.
Leaving it ALL behind!? That is not such an exciting adventure. From the story of Lot, we can see that they didn't think so either. Despite the wickedness of their city and the warnings, they had to be dragged from their home! Can you imagine? When we look at it through the fictional story of Lottie, I think we can.
The Study Guide questions in the back of the book are thought provoking! Give yourself permission to spend some time with them, think in ink as you go. Since there's not much room in the book, grab your journal or even a sheet of paper and write out your answers and thoughts to the questions. I find when I slow down to write ideas become clear, lessons sink deeper, and change happens.
One thing that I found fascinating, and kind of mind boggling, is the amount of bargaining that goes on in this chapter! This behavior is touched upon in question 1b, but is examined further in the workbook. Let's take a look: Ms. Higgs points us to Genesis 18: 23-33, where Abraham pleads with God, and she asks, "what does this tell you about Abraham? And what does it reveal about God?" Bringing it into our own lives, she asks "was there a time you interceded for your family, asking God for mercy?" I have heard both amazing stories of salvation and stories of 'I'm still praying for them'. What's your story?
Ms. Higgs questions then go on to ask why God spared Lot and his family, giving 2 Peter 2: 4-9 as a possible Biblical answer (and hope for us!). She points out God's patience in Nehemiah 9:31 and asks if we've ever tried God's patience. Me: Um, yes, I'm pretty sure I have! Everyday! She then directs us back to 2 Peter, chapter 3, verse 9. What is your response to that statement? Finally, she shows us in 1 Timothy 1:16 why the gift of grace is extended to us and asks us to rewrite the verse in our own words, applying it to our own faith journey. I like to go back to verse 15 for a complete picture. Either way, it's some powerful stuff!
I can't wait to talk about this chapter with you! Won't you take a minute and add a comment to our blog. Start a conversation about any of the questions or statements; share how you are working through this very human issue in your life or how this has effected you or your family. You've seen (or at least heard of) the TV show "Hoarders". Our attachment to the things of this world have grown to epidemic proportions! Clearly this is a call to let go of worldly possessions, Matthew 6: 19 - 21 for "No one can serve two masters.... You cannot serve both God and money." Matthew 6:24
After this chapter has sunk in, answer this question: "What's the most important lesson you learned from the salty tale of Lot's wife?" Bad Girls of the Bible, pg 250. How will you share what you've learned with others?
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
"She'd almost grown accustomed to the faint smell of sulfur in the air. Dropping into the inviting porch chair, Lottie pointed herself toward the mountain and began rocking in a steady rhythm.. As the sky darkened, Lottie was lulled to sleep by the sounds of nature all around her and the assurance that when the sun rose, so would she..." Bad Girls of the Bible, pg 65.
Why are we so attached to our possessions? That's a question for the ages - obviously! Even way back in Genesis, Lot's wife, Lot, and their daughters, had a hard time leaving behind the life they built, despite the warnings of immanent danger and death. I'm not sure it was just the 'stuff' they mourned, but everything they knew: friends, memories, a way of life and all that is familiar. It's hard to leave that behind, even when we know it's for a better future.
My husband's job has moved us a few times over the last 20+ years of marriage. I'm the adventurous type, so I never really minded the prospect of living in a place where I didn't know anyone. Behind that spirit of adventure lies the fact that we'd be doing it together - we had each other. And, our stuff! In our new home, we would still be surrounded by the familiar. It's comforting that we could always 'take it with us'. Even once we had children, who were less eager to leave their friends, they found comfort in the fact that their stuff (their bed, their toys, their books, & pictures) would be waiting for them at the new place.
Leaving it ALL behind!? That is not such an exciting adventure. From the story of Lot, we can see that they didn't think so either. Despite the wickedness of their city and the warnings, they had to be dragged from their home! Can you imagine? When we look at it through the fictional story of Lottie, I think we can.
The Study Guide questions in the back of the book are thought provoking! Give yourself permission to spend some time with them, think in ink as you go. Since there's not much room in the book, grab your journal or even a sheet of paper and write out your answers and thoughts to the questions. I find when I slow down to write ideas become clear, lessons sink deeper, and change happens.
One thing that I found fascinating, and kind of mind boggling, is the amount of bargaining that goes on in this chapter! This behavior is touched upon in question 1b, but is examined further in the workbook. Let's take a look: Ms. Higgs points us to Genesis 18: 23-33, where Abraham pleads with God, and she asks, "what does this tell you about Abraham? And what does it reveal about God?" Bringing it into our own lives, she asks "was there a time you interceded for your family, asking God for mercy?" I have heard both amazing stories of salvation and stories of 'I'm still praying for them'. What's your story?
Ms. Higgs questions then go on to ask why God spared Lot and his family, giving 2 Peter 2: 4-9 as a possible Biblical answer (and hope for us!). She points out God's patience in Nehemiah 9:31 and asks if we've ever tried God's patience. Me: Um, yes, I'm pretty sure I have! Everyday! She then directs us back to 2 Peter, chapter 3, verse 9. What is your response to that statement? Finally, she shows us in 1 Timothy 1:16 why the gift of grace is extended to us and asks us to rewrite the verse in our own words, applying it to our own faith journey. I like to go back to verse 15 for a complete picture. Either way, it's some powerful stuff!
I can't wait to talk about this chapter with you! Won't you take a minute and add a comment to our blog. Start a conversation about any of the questions or statements; share how you are working through this very human issue in your life or how this has effected you or your family. You've seen (or at least heard of) the TV show "Hoarders". Our attachment to the things of this world have grown to epidemic proportions! Clearly this is a call to let go of worldly possessions, Matthew 6: 19 - 21 for "No one can serve two masters.... You cannot serve both God and money." Matthew 6:24
After this chapter has sunk in, answer this question: "What's the most important lesson you learned from the salty tale of Lot's wife?" Bad Girls of the Bible, pg 250. How will you share what you've learned with others?
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Tuesday, January 20, 2015
Bad Girls of the Bible: Lot's Wife
" 'Run for your lives!' the angels warned. 'Do not stop anywhere in the valley. And don't look back! Escape to the mountains, or you will die.' " Genesis 19:17
My beautiful house! We just got it the way we want it: a library for me, a game room with a pool table & video games for the kids, a comfy couch, not to mention our clothes & toys & my books! Then there's our wedding album, the kid's baby pictures, the blanket I made for my grandmother and the ones I made for my children, my great grandmother's jewelry box, the pearls my husband gave me for our anniversary, the pictures & newspaper clippings of our family going back at least 5 generations - do you know what your great-grandparents looked like as young children? I do :). So many memories attached to the things in my home. How could I ever just leave it all behind?
Oh, how I can relate to Lottie (of the fictional story) and Lot's wife! Even if all the signs were there and strangers came with a warning, would I be able to leave on such short notice? Would I be willing and able to flee to a "wilderness" and take nothing with me?! Just typing the thought breaks my heart. Sadly, I think I would have been turned into a pillar of salt. I'm not sure I would have been caught in Mt. St. Helen's eruption, but maybe. I think I would have loaded up my cars with the most important and precious things and driven away. Still, I would have wanted to take things with me! I'm not sure I could walk away and not look back.
Even if I could physically keep my eyes forward, my heart would be mourning the loss of all of the things we worked so hard for and the memories and tangible reminders of days gone by. I can't help but wonder if that is part of the warning to 'not look back', to not mourn the loss, but praise the saving. As Jesus said to his disciples,"Yes, it will be 'business as usual' right up to the hour when the Son of Man returns. On that day a person outside the house must not go into the house to pack. A person in the field must not return to town. Remember what happened to Lot's wife! Whoever clings to this life will lose it, and whoever loses this life will save it." Luke 17: 30-33.
This is a question I ask my myself quite often. I look around my home and wonder, "could I leave it all behind?". I guess it's on my mind more often because of all the natural disasters we hear about and two of my cousins (2 sepearte fires in the last 18 months) recent house fires (thankfully everyone and the pets are fine and even many of their possessions, but the homes need extensive repairs). There is no doubt that my family would be the highest priority and the joy that everyone is safe would be overwhelming. We hear it all the time: 'you're safe and that's all that matters'. That sentiment is the truest thing anyone has ever spoken. But we still mourn the loss of our homes.
Lottie and Lot's wife, even with the warnings of impending disaster, chose their 'stuff' over their lives. We tend to think it was an obvious & easy choice, but hind sight is 20/20. As you read their stories, put yourself in their shoes. Walk around your home, looking at all the things that remind you of someone long gone & items that bring back sweet memories and ask yourself, 'if someone you didn't know told you to leave it all and go to the shelter, would you pack nothing, mourn nothing'? Would you be able to drive away from your home without a backward glance?
I find I am not so different from Lot's wife in that regard. Even in my thankfulness and praise of being safe, my heart would break for the loss of our home. It is in that moment that I am thankful for God's grace! Lot's wife did not heed God's warning and paid dearly for it. As Christians we are saved by Grace, through Jesus Christ.
Jesus says, "Don't store up treasures here on earth, where they can be eaten by moths and get rusty, and where thieves break in and steal. Store your treasures in heaven, where they will never become moth-eaten or rusty and where they will be safe from thieves. Wherever your treasure is, there your heart and thoughts will also be." Matthew 6:19-21.
Even as I yearn to be free from loving the 'stuff' of this earth, I am aware that I fall short, so short you could fit all my stuff in between me and God! I am still trying though, and God's forgiveness is able to reach around all that 'stuff' to touch my heart and help me draw closer to Him.
After reading these two amazing stories in chapter 3, spend some time pondering "What Lessons Can We Learn from Lot's Wife?" and answer the questions in the Study Guide in the back of the book.
Please share your thoughts on Lottie and Lot's Wife; click here to go to the blog. I'd love to read about your experiences, struggles, and victories. Did you identify with these women? Is this something you're working on in your faith journey? How is it going and what have you done to let go of your 'treasures here on earth' physically and emotionally?
I'll be back later in the week with some more thoughts on Lottie, Lot's Wife and why their stories are important to us.
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
My beautiful house! We just got it the way we want it: a library for me, a game room with a pool table & video games for the kids, a comfy couch, not to mention our clothes & toys & my books! Then there's our wedding album, the kid's baby pictures, the blanket I made for my grandmother and the ones I made for my children, my great grandmother's jewelry box, the pearls my husband gave me for our anniversary, the pictures & newspaper clippings of our family going back at least 5 generations - do you know what your great-grandparents looked like as young children? I do :). So many memories attached to the things in my home. How could I ever just leave it all behind?
Oh, how I can relate to Lottie (of the fictional story) and Lot's wife! Even if all the signs were there and strangers came with a warning, would I be able to leave on such short notice? Would I be willing and able to flee to a "wilderness" and take nothing with me?! Just typing the thought breaks my heart. Sadly, I think I would have been turned into a pillar of salt. I'm not sure I would have been caught in Mt. St. Helen's eruption, but maybe. I think I would have loaded up my cars with the most important and precious things and driven away. Still, I would have wanted to take things with me! I'm not sure I could walk away and not look back.
Even if I could physically keep my eyes forward, my heart would be mourning the loss of all of the things we worked so hard for and the memories and tangible reminders of days gone by. I can't help but wonder if that is part of the warning to 'not look back', to not mourn the loss, but praise the saving. As Jesus said to his disciples,"Yes, it will be 'business as usual' right up to the hour when the Son of Man returns. On that day a person outside the house must not go into the house to pack. A person in the field must not return to town. Remember what happened to Lot's wife! Whoever clings to this life will lose it, and whoever loses this life will save it." Luke 17: 30-33.
This is a question I ask my myself quite often. I look around my home and wonder, "could I leave it all behind?". I guess it's on my mind more often because of all the natural disasters we hear about and two of my cousins (2 sepearte fires in the last 18 months) recent house fires (thankfully everyone and the pets are fine and even many of their possessions, but the homes need extensive repairs). There is no doubt that my family would be the highest priority and the joy that everyone is safe would be overwhelming. We hear it all the time: 'you're safe and that's all that matters'. That sentiment is the truest thing anyone has ever spoken. But we still mourn the loss of our homes.
Lottie and Lot's wife, even with the warnings of impending disaster, chose their 'stuff' over their lives. We tend to think it was an obvious & easy choice, but hind sight is 20/20. As you read their stories, put yourself in their shoes. Walk around your home, looking at all the things that remind you of someone long gone & items that bring back sweet memories and ask yourself, 'if someone you didn't know told you to leave it all and go to the shelter, would you pack nothing, mourn nothing'? Would you be able to drive away from your home without a backward glance?
I find I am not so different from Lot's wife in that regard. Even in my thankfulness and praise of being safe, my heart would break for the loss of our home. It is in that moment that I am thankful for God's grace! Lot's wife did not heed God's warning and paid dearly for it. As Christians we are saved by Grace, through Jesus Christ.
Jesus says, "Don't store up treasures here on earth, where they can be eaten by moths and get rusty, and where thieves break in and steal. Store your treasures in heaven, where they will never become moth-eaten or rusty and where they will be safe from thieves. Wherever your treasure is, there your heart and thoughts will also be." Matthew 6:19-21.
Even as I yearn to be free from loving the 'stuff' of this earth, I am aware that I fall short, so short you could fit all my stuff in between me and God! I am still trying though, and God's forgiveness is able to reach around all that 'stuff' to touch my heart and help me draw closer to Him.
After reading these two amazing stories in chapter 3, spend some time pondering "What Lessons Can We Learn from Lot's Wife?" and answer the questions in the Study Guide in the back of the book.
Please share your thoughts on Lottie and Lot's Wife; click here to go to the blog. I'd love to read about your experiences, struggles, and victories. Did you identify with these women? Is this something you're working on in your faith journey? How is it going and what have you done to let go of your 'treasures here on earth' physically and emotionally?
I'll be back later in the week with some more thoughts on Lottie, Lot's Wife and why their stories are important to us.
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Thursday, January 15, 2015
Thinking about Potiphar's Wife
"And now, dear friends, let me say one more thing as I close this letter. Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise." Philippians 4:8 NLT
It has taken me a few days, but my jaw is off the floor and the blush has faded from my cheeks! It's not that I'm innocent or naive, I'm a child of the '80's for goodness sakes! The '60's may have had "free love" but the '80's was all about "sex, drugs, and rock 'n roll" and I didn't miss a beat!
It's just that Potiphar's wife is so bold and brazen, it took me a little bit to process the fact that this is a "Bible story". Such a popular one, too! Several years ago, my oldest daughter was in the musical "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat", so I'm very familiar with Joseph's story. But it was a children's version, so the seduction was toned down (and a little awkward). And when I think about all the times I've read the story, it's always in the context or point of view of Joseph. It's his story and his faithfulness to God that is usually the focus. I've never given too much thought to Potiphar's Wife. Focusing on her character, her choices, her situation and her downfall puts a whole different spin on the story.
There are so many lessons to learn from this woman! The Study Guide touches on a few of them in the three questions on pages 247-248. Be sure to read and answer them, as we'll start with them in our live discussion on Friday morning. For those who can't be there, will you share, in the Comment section, something that really jumped out at you. It would be great to have you in on this conversation!
One point of the story that is not included in the Study Guide, but is discussed in the workbook is the fact that this woman is nameless. That really struck a chord with me. Have you ever felt 'nameless', just a face in the crowd, or forgotten. Have you lost your own identity in the context of your family, job, or situation? There are times that we are proud to be associated with the ones we love or something we have accomplished. But it can be deeply painful too, to only be known as the wife of..., the mother of..., the sister of..., the employee of..., or the victim of... If you can identify with this namelessness, recall how if made you feel. What emotions are associated with this feeling and did it impact how you lived and interacted with people?
Now let's flip that around and ask ourselves: why is she nameless? There are other bad girls of the Bible who are named, so why isn't she? I can think of a few reasons. There are no right or wrong answers here, but it may shed some light on our learning.
We know from the story that Potiphar enjoys a certain lifestyle: one of the rich & powerful. So, if Mrs. P lives a life of luxury, with servants to do all the daily chores and a smart, good looking young man to deal with the running of the household and business, what did she do all day? I dont' think she was a member of the historical society, out feeding the poor, or blogging about life in ancient Egypt! Perhaps she was like Mitzi (of the fictional story), a bored, neglected housewife wondering if she still "had it". What's that saying about idle hands? One of the reasons I keep my kids busy with activities is to 'keep them out of trouble'. Sounds like Mrs. P should have joined a bowling league or had the girls over for a game of Bunco. If she wouldn't have been so unoccupied, would she have been so preoccupied with Joseph? In the workbook, Ms. Higgs gives us a few verses that tell us what we should do instead of going down that lonely path: Matthew 5:27-28 (yikes, maybe not do this), 1 Thessalonians 4:3-7 and Colossians 3:5.
Finally, who is to blame for Mrs. Potiphar's and Mitzi's escapade? Anyone? Everyone? Being married is a unique relationship. It requires sacrifice, compromise, vulnerability, strength, and forgiveness. Quite honestly, it's hard work sometimes. The Bible has a few thoughts on how husbands and wives should treat each other and Ms. Higgs was kind enough to list them in the workbook. Here's some of what God's Word says on husbands & wives: Proverbs 5:18; Malachi 2:15; Ephesians 5:25-28.
Thank you for braving this subject with me! It can be a tricky one to navigate, for sure. When we take the story literally, we may not feel we have anything in common with a rich, bored, neglected housewife of ancient Egypt. But, looking a little deeper and drawing on God's word for lessons on love, relationships, and marriage we can all discover something about ourselves. More importantly, we can see more clearly what God wants for us and draw closer to Him.
I look forward to reading your thoughts on this chapter. Click here to share your views on this chapter. What's the most important lesson you learned from Potiphar's Wife?
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
It has taken me a few days, but my jaw is off the floor and the blush has faded from my cheeks! It's not that I'm innocent or naive, I'm a child of the '80's for goodness sakes! The '60's may have had "free love" but the '80's was all about "sex, drugs, and rock 'n roll" and I didn't miss a beat!
It's just that Potiphar's wife is so bold and brazen, it took me a little bit to process the fact that this is a "Bible story". Such a popular one, too! Several years ago, my oldest daughter was in the musical "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat", so I'm very familiar with Joseph's story. But it was a children's version, so the seduction was toned down (and a little awkward). And when I think about all the times I've read the story, it's always in the context or point of view of Joseph. It's his story and his faithfulness to God that is usually the focus. I've never given too much thought to Potiphar's Wife. Focusing on her character, her choices, her situation and her downfall puts a whole different spin on the story.
There are so many lessons to learn from this woman! The Study Guide touches on a few of them in the three questions on pages 247-248. Be sure to read and answer them, as we'll start with them in our live discussion on Friday morning. For those who can't be there, will you share, in the Comment section, something that really jumped out at you. It would be great to have you in on this conversation!
One point of the story that is not included in the Study Guide, but is discussed in the workbook is the fact that this woman is nameless. That really struck a chord with me. Have you ever felt 'nameless', just a face in the crowd, or forgotten. Have you lost your own identity in the context of your family, job, or situation? There are times that we are proud to be associated with the ones we love or something we have accomplished. But it can be deeply painful too, to only be known as the wife of..., the mother of..., the sister of..., the employee of..., or the victim of... If you can identify with this namelessness, recall how if made you feel. What emotions are associated with this feeling and did it impact how you lived and interacted with people?
Now let's flip that around and ask ourselves: why is she nameless? There are other bad girls of the Bible who are named, so why isn't she? I can think of a few reasons. There are no right or wrong answers here, but it may shed some light on our learning.
We know from the story that Potiphar enjoys a certain lifestyle: one of the rich & powerful. So, if Mrs. P lives a life of luxury, with servants to do all the daily chores and a smart, good looking young man to deal with the running of the household and business, what did she do all day? I dont' think she was a member of the historical society, out feeding the poor, or blogging about life in ancient Egypt! Perhaps she was like Mitzi (of the fictional story), a bored, neglected housewife wondering if she still "had it". What's that saying about idle hands? One of the reasons I keep my kids busy with activities is to 'keep them out of trouble'. Sounds like Mrs. P should have joined a bowling league or had the girls over for a game of Bunco. If she wouldn't have been so unoccupied, would she have been so preoccupied with Joseph? In the workbook, Ms. Higgs gives us a few verses that tell us what we should do instead of going down that lonely path: Matthew 5:27-28 (yikes, maybe not do this), 1 Thessalonians 4:3-7 and Colossians 3:5.
Finally, who is to blame for Mrs. Potiphar's and Mitzi's escapade? Anyone? Everyone? Being married is a unique relationship. It requires sacrifice, compromise, vulnerability, strength, and forgiveness. Quite honestly, it's hard work sometimes. The Bible has a few thoughts on how husbands and wives should treat each other and Ms. Higgs was kind enough to list them in the workbook. Here's some of what God's Word says on husbands & wives: Proverbs 5:18; Malachi 2:15; Ephesians 5:25-28.
Thank you for braving this subject with me! It can be a tricky one to navigate, for sure. When we take the story literally, we may not feel we have anything in common with a rich, bored, neglected housewife of ancient Egypt. But, looking a little deeper and drawing on God's word for lessons on love, relationships, and marriage we can all discover something about ourselves. More importantly, we can see more clearly what God wants for us and draw closer to Him.
I look forward to reading your thoughts on this chapter. Click here to share your views on this chapter. What's the most important lesson you learned from Potiphar's Wife?
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Monday, January 12, 2015
"Bad Girls of the Bible": Potiphar's Wife
"Now Joseph was a very handsome and well-built young man. And about this time, Potiphar's wife began to desire him and invited him to sleep with her. But Joseph refused." Genesis 39:6b-8a NLT
OH - MY - GOODNESS! This chapter made me blush! Potiphar's wife is what we would call a 'cougar' and Joseph, a tasty little morsel who caught her eye! And poor, neglected Mitzi of the fictional tale - I sympathized with her situation and hoped she wouldn't go through with it; I was actually shouting at her in my head. But once she decided to lie to her husband & blame Joe, she lost my support.
Oh, the pickle Joseph found himself in is still a staple of modern soap operas, TV dramas, and steamy novels (or so I've been told). Honestly, I prefer murder mysteries & sci-fi :) But, one can gather the general plot just by watching commercials. And this scenario has made more than a few appearances in murder mysteries, as you can imagine.
The story of this "bad to the bone", nameless woman is here to teach us some important lessons. Read carefully and be sure to 'think in ink' as you go.
I find it amazing how short the story is in the Bible, covering only 23 verses including back story and consequences. The actual seduction is told in only 10 verses, but apparently happened over a long-ish (yep, I'm making up words) period of time. There is a lot of inference on our author's part (and everyone who has written commentary on it) as to the motives, states of mind, and settings. As long as we don't add to God's word, I think it's okay in order to make the people more real, easier to relate to, and aid in teaching us valuable lessons we can apply to our own lives.
Fleshing out (pun intended) the characters, their circumstances and their thoughts, helps us to see how this ancient story translates into 21st Century life.
Have you ever:
* been too busy for your 'home life' or those who love you?
* felt neglected, overlooked, taken for granted?
* been tempted by something that looked or felt good? (sounds familiar, Eve)
* been put in an awkward situation or accused of something you didn't do?
* sought revenge or been the recipient of someone else's vengeance?
* shifted the blame to others for your missteps? (Eve & Adam started something with that one!)
Your experiences may not be as bold as those of our fiction & Biblical stories, but maybe there is a subtle connection to your life.
After you're finished reading, flip to the back of the book and do the Chapter Two Study guide questions. I'll be back on Thursday with some more thoughts on Potiphar's Wife.
Now that you know my reaction to this chapter, will you share your thoughts? Clicking here will take you to the blog where you can post your reaction in the Comment section. I can't wait to read it!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
OH - MY - GOODNESS! This chapter made me blush! Potiphar's wife is what we would call a 'cougar' and Joseph, a tasty little morsel who caught her eye! And poor, neglected Mitzi of the fictional tale - I sympathized with her situation and hoped she wouldn't go through with it; I was actually shouting at her in my head. But once she decided to lie to her husband & blame Joe, she lost my support.
Oh, the pickle Joseph found himself in is still a staple of modern soap operas, TV dramas, and steamy novels (or so I've been told). Honestly, I prefer murder mysteries & sci-fi :) But, one can gather the general plot just by watching commercials. And this scenario has made more than a few appearances in murder mysteries, as you can imagine.
The story of this "bad to the bone", nameless woman is here to teach us some important lessons. Read carefully and be sure to 'think in ink' as you go.
I find it amazing how short the story is in the Bible, covering only 23 verses including back story and consequences. The actual seduction is told in only 10 verses, but apparently happened over a long-ish (yep, I'm making up words) period of time. There is a lot of inference on our author's part (and everyone who has written commentary on it) as to the motives, states of mind, and settings. As long as we don't add to God's word, I think it's okay in order to make the people more real, easier to relate to, and aid in teaching us valuable lessons we can apply to our own lives.
Fleshing out (pun intended) the characters, their circumstances and their thoughts, helps us to see how this ancient story translates into 21st Century life.
Have you ever:
* been too busy for your 'home life' or those who love you?
* felt neglected, overlooked, taken for granted?
* been tempted by something that looked or felt good? (sounds familiar, Eve)
* been put in an awkward situation or accused of something you didn't do?
* sought revenge or been the recipient of someone else's vengeance?
* shifted the blame to others for your missteps? (Eve & Adam started something with that one!)
Your experiences may not be as bold as those of our fiction & Biblical stories, but maybe there is a subtle connection to your life.
After you're finished reading, flip to the back of the book and do the Chapter Two Study guide questions. I'll be back on Thursday with some more thoughts on Potiphar's Wife.
Now that you know my reaction to this chapter, will you share your thoughts? Clicking here will take you to the blog where you can post your reaction in the Comment section. I can't wait to read it!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Tuesday, January 6, 2015
Thinking about Eve
"All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It straightens us out and teaches us to do what is right. It is God's way of preparing us in every way, fully equipped for every good thing God wants us to do." 2 Timothy 3:16-17
I hope you are enjoying both the fictional story of Evie and the Biblical analysis of Eve! I have to admit, Evie captivated me. I totally identified with her when she was surprised at how she arrived at the forbidden gazebo. More often than I can count, I have been in her shoes. I've gotten to a place, (emotionally, physically, mentally, spiritually) and wondered, "How did I get here?" Without realizing it, I had wandered down a path I had hoped to never trod.
Our opening Scripture is exactly why we study God's Word! It is literally an instruction book for living. We can learn something, even from 'bad girls'. Let's see what we can learn together!
After reading the chapter, I took a look at the Study Guide in the back of the book and the questions in the Workbook (you do not need the workbook). The workbook has great questions and lots of Scripture to add to our understanding, but it's quite extensive. The Study Guide has a lot fewer questions & Scripture, but leaves out a few of my favorite points.
So, regardless of which book you have, I'd like to give you some things to think about as you read or after you read "All About Evie". Grab you pen & journal and think in ink!
These questions are paraphrased from Bad Girls of the Bible workbook, by Liz Curtis Higgs.
Have you ever walked into a trap of doubting God's Word in your own heart (because of what someone else has said) or feeling ill-equipped when you're face to face with someone else who does?
Ms. Higgs gives us a few verses that tell us about God's Word and how we should handle it.
Read Proverbs 30: 5-6, Luke 11:28, and 2 Timothy 3: 16-17. How do these verses help us when we find ourselves getting tangled up in a discussion about God's Word?
Eve's eyes, her physical eyes and her metaphorical eyes, led her astray. "The woman was convinced. The fruit looked so fresh and delicious, and it would make her so wise!" Genesis 3: 6a, NLT. Can you relate? How have your eyes led you down a rocky road? In this group of questions, the author asks us to re-write a few passages to make them more personal. We've done this before and it's one of my favorite ways to connect Scripture to my life. Liz asks us to re-write each statement with "I will..."
Psalm 119:10
Hebrews 10:25
2 Timothy 2:22
2 Timothy 2:23
Colossians 3:2
Colossians 3:5
Colossians 3:8
Now choose one to put into action today! Underline it, highlight it, *star it*, write it on sticky notes to put on your mirror, in your car, and on your computer. Write down one specific way you will put this into action. Will you share your action Scripture with us in the Comments? I'd love to hear from you and support you on your journey.
These are just a few points to consider; there are many others!
Other issues to examine include Eve's (& our):
* desire to "do it ourselves", be in control of our lives, be like God;
* resisting, or not, the urge to sin;
* leading others to sin;
* coving up our sin; and
* shifting blame for our mistakes.
What can we learn from Eve on these points?
I look forward to reading your Comments and discussing "the mother of all bad girls", Eve!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Monday, January 5, 2015
"Bad Girls of the Bible": Eve
"And the Lord God said, 'It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a companion who will help him.... But still there was no companion suitable for him. So the Lord God caused Adam to fall into a deep sleep. He took one of Adam's ribs and closed up the place from which he had taken it. Then the Lord God made a woman from the rib and brought her to Adam." Genesis 2:18, 20b-22 NLT
Merry Christmas, on this 11th day of Christmas! Happy New Year, too!! I pray that 2015 is a year filled with grace, peace, renewed hope, and above all, love.
Now that the gifts have been opened, the garlands & ornaments lovingly stowed away until December, and the revolving door of visitors and visiting has slowed, it's a perfect time to quiet our lives and reflect.
I am so very excited to start our new book, Bad Girls of the Bible, and What We Can Learn From Them, by Liz Curtis Higgs.
Note: this is the first of the Bad Girl series. There have been two publications, so the covers may differ depending on which publication you have, but either one is fine for our group. Also, there is a companion workbook. You do not need the workbook, just the book.
I am reading this book for the first time right along with you! Most of our books I have already read, but this one came so highly recommended (thank you, Paula) and had only positive reviews on-line, I decided to take the plunge. Right from the start, I was not disappointed - she opens the introduction with one of my most favorite lines from Longfellow, "And when she was good she was very, very good, But when she was bad she was horrid." I'm not sure what that says about me, but I just love it! I guess it's my inner (and often outward) struggle between my bad girl & my good girl!
We will start right in with the first chapter on Friday, January 9th. Give yourself permission to take time out of your week to read the Introduction and Chapter 1 "All About Evie". It's important to read the introduction, to understand the author's writing style (funny, compelling) and why she chose to write her book with both fictional & Biblical stories; she also shares a few startling facts about her personal life.
If you have the Revised Edition (teal & yellow-orange cover), there is a study guide in the back of the book, starting on page 245. I'm not sure if it's in the original (purple) edition or the e-book edition. These questions & our discussions is where faith is deepened. As we read, explore, and see ourselves through Scripture-colored lenses, we draw ever closer to becoming the women God designed us to be. We renew our soul and open our hearts & minds to what the Lord has to show us. Believe it or not, we have more in common with these women who lived centuries ago, than we might have first thought.
You have worked hard these last few months, making the holidays bright for family and friends. Take some time to recharge your soul by diving into the pages of Bad Girls of the Bible. You won't be disappointed!
I'll be back here on Wednesday, to give you some 'things to think about' from the Study Guide.
Do you know someone who might be interested in reading about these bad girls? Please pass this on to them and, if you attend our live group, bring them along! Regardless of where you are along your journey (still questioning, just starting out, or have blisters from walking this path for a long time) you are welcome here!
Happy Reading!!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul, and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Merry Christmas, on this 11th day of Christmas! Happy New Year, too!! I pray that 2015 is a year filled with grace, peace, renewed hope, and above all, love.
Now that the gifts have been opened, the garlands & ornaments lovingly stowed away until December, and the revolving door of visitors and visiting has slowed, it's a perfect time to quiet our lives and reflect.
I am so very excited to start our new book, Bad Girls of the Bible, and What We Can Learn From Them, by Liz Curtis Higgs.
Note: this is the first of the Bad Girl series. There have been two publications, so the covers may differ depending on which publication you have, but either one is fine for our group. Also, there is a companion workbook. You do not need the workbook, just the book.
I am reading this book for the first time right along with you! Most of our books I have already read, but this one came so highly recommended (thank you, Paula) and had only positive reviews on-line, I decided to take the plunge. Right from the start, I was not disappointed - she opens the introduction with one of my most favorite lines from Longfellow, "And when she was good she was very, very good, But when she was bad she was horrid." I'm not sure what that says about me, but I just love it! I guess it's my inner (and often outward) struggle between my bad girl & my good girl!
We will start right in with the first chapter on Friday, January 9th. Give yourself permission to take time out of your week to read the Introduction and Chapter 1 "All About Evie". It's important to read the introduction, to understand the author's writing style (funny, compelling) and why she chose to write her book with both fictional & Biblical stories; she also shares a few startling facts about her personal life.
If you have the Revised Edition (teal & yellow-orange cover), there is a study guide in the back of the book, starting on page 245. I'm not sure if it's in the original (purple) edition or the e-book edition. These questions & our discussions is where faith is deepened. As we read, explore, and see ourselves through Scripture-colored lenses, we draw ever closer to becoming the women God designed us to be. We renew our soul and open our hearts & minds to what the Lord has to show us. Believe it or not, we have more in common with these women who lived centuries ago, than we might have first thought.
You have worked hard these last few months, making the holidays bright for family and friends. Take some time to recharge your soul by diving into the pages of Bad Girls of the Bible. You won't be disappointed!
I'll be back here on Wednesday, to give you some 'things to think about' from the Study Guide.
Do you know someone who might be interested in reading about these bad girls? Please pass this on to them and, if you attend our live group, bring them along! Regardless of where you are along your journey (still questioning, just starting out, or have blisters from walking this path for a long time) you are welcome here!
Happy Reading!!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul, and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
Master and Servant
Moses said to the LORD (Yahweh), "O Lord (ADONAY), I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue." 13. But Moses said, "O Lord (ADONAY), please send someone else to do it." Exodus 4: 10, 13
This week we continue in Moses' story as we discover our relationship with ADONAY, Lord, Master. In the passages above, Moses addresses God as Adonay, acknowledging that God is his Master at the same time he is questioning God's calling.
Take a minute... have you ever done this? I know I have, probably way too often. And then I wonder, 'how can I question God's choice!? That's pretty brazen! And not how I should respond, regardless of what I think about myself.' Then I get into the whole downward spiral of beating myself up for questioning God and not feeling worthy of His calling. It's a rabbit hole of negativity that I find myself falling down. Have you been down that rabbit hole?
The Good News is that ADONAY doesn't allow us to fall too far, especially when He is the one giving us a task. He is our Master and calls us to do His work, not our own. He equips us, even when we doubt ourselves. And when we really doubt our ability, like Moses did, He allays our fears by sending help. Yahweh, our personal redeemer, sends someone to grab our ankle and pull us up out of the rabbit hole, like Aaron did for Moses. Aaron came alongside Moses to carry out the Lord Master's plan of setting His people free.
My personal 'rabbit hole' is trying to figure out what it all means... As I'm reading the Bible I often wonder 'what was God thinking?! What was the point? Why did God or a person make that choice? What am I suppose to get from this story?' While exploring, wondering, and questioning can be useful tools to a deeper understanding and faith, they can also set a trap of out of control questions, guesses, and tangents that take me further away from the Truth. When I notice that I've gone down that twisting, twirling tangent I listen for God's voice, I pray for guidance back out of that dark hole and on to the right path. I return always to the truth of God's love for me, that He is both Adonay (Lord, Master) and Yahweh (LORD, always near). I am His servant; He loves me and would not ask of me anything that He cannot do through me. He has given me a brain with which to gain knowledge, help others and I should use it for good, not for questioning God's command.
As you work through the study questions on page 40 and 41, take the time to write out your answers (either in the book or in your journal). Spend some extra time on questions 4 and 6. Try to be very honest with yourself, though it's not always easy to do. And for question 6, if there has been someone specifically who has come alongside you, allow this to be an opportunity to acknowledge them. Reach out to them and let them know how thankful you are. Perhaps they are unaware of your gratitude. Either way, it's always nice to hear a word of thanks!
REMINDER: We will not meet at Redeemer this week, Oct 31st or next week, Nov 7th due to numerous conflicts. Keep reading and I will keep posting; we can have our study right here on the blog over the next 2 weeks! I look forward to reading your comments and discussing "ADONAY LORD, MASTER" with you. Click here to post your comment.
For next week, read "YAHWEH ROPHE THE LORD WHO HEALS".
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
This week we continue in Moses' story as we discover our relationship with ADONAY, Lord, Master. In the passages above, Moses addresses God as Adonay, acknowledging that God is his Master at the same time he is questioning God's calling.
Take a minute... have you ever done this? I know I have, probably way too often. And then I wonder, 'how can I question God's choice!? That's pretty brazen! And not how I should respond, regardless of what I think about myself.' Then I get into the whole downward spiral of beating myself up for questioning God and not feeling worthy of His calling. It's a rabbit hole of negativity that I find myself falling down. Have you been down that rabbit hole?
The Good News is that ADONAY doesn't allow us to fall too far, especially when He is the one giving us a task. He is our Master and calls us to do His work, not our own. He equips us, even when we doubt ourselves. And when we really doubt our ability, like Moses did, He allays our fears by sending help. Yahweh, our personal redeemer, sends someone to grab our ankle and pull us up out of the rabbit hole, like Aaron did for Moses. Aaron came alongside Moses to carry out the Lord Master's plan of setting His people free.
My personal 'rabbit hole' is trying to figure out what it all means... As I'm reading the Bible I often wonder 'what was God thinking?! What was the point? Why did God or a person make that choice? What am I suppose to get from this story?' While exploring, wondering, and questioning can be useful tools to a deeper understanding and faith, they can also set a trap of out of control questions, guesses, and tangents that take me further away from the Truth. When I notice that I've gone down that twisting, twirling tangent I listen for God's voice, I pray for guidance back out of that dark hole and on to the right path. I return always to the truth of God's love for me, that He is both Adonay (Lord, Master) and Yahweh (LORD, always near). I am His servant; He loves me and would not ask of me anything that He cannot do through me. He has given me a brain with which to gain knowledge, help others and I should use it for good, not for questioning God's command.
As you work through the study questions on page 40 and 41, take the time to write out your answers (either in the book or in your journal). Spend some extra time on questions 4 and 6. Try to be very honest with yourself, though it's not always easy to do. And for question 6, if there has been someone specifically who has come alongside you, allow this to be an opportunity to acknowledge them. Reach out to them and let them know how thankful you are. Perhaps they are unaware of your gratitude. Either way, it's always nice to hear a word of thanks!
REMINDER: We will not meet at Redeemer this week, Oct 31st or next week, Nov 7th due to numerous conflicts. Keep reading and I will keep posting; we can have our study right here on the blog over the next 2 weeks! I look forward to reading your comments and discussing "ADONAY LORD, MASTER" with you. Click here to post your comment.
For next week, read "YAHWEH ROPHE THE LORD WHO HEALS".
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
A close, personal Redeemer
"God replied, "I AM WHO I AM. Just tell them, 'I AM has sent me to you.'" Exodus 3:14 (NLT)
Have you ever felt like God is just up there, far away and uninterested in life here on earth? I have and suspect that even the most devout have too, even if it was fleetingly. Sometimes, when life is difficult, we wonder if God takes any notice.
He does! In the reading for this week, Exodus 3: 1-20, we meet THE LORD, YAHWEH, "... a name closely linked to God's redeeming acts in the history of his chosen people". (The Names of God, by Ann Spangler, pg 33) It is in the character of this name, YAHWEH, that we take comfort that God has been and will be, always present with those who "... obey the commands of the LORD your God and walk in his ways, the LORD will establish you as his holy people as he solemnly promised to do." Deut. 28:9.
In our reading, Moses is called in a not-so-subtle, yet very private & personal way, to lead God's people out of Egypt. He comes to Moses, they have a conversation in which God tells him of His concerns about the Israelites, and of the rescue that Moses will lead in His name. Moses questions God's choice in leadership, but God assures him and promises to be with him. It is this revelation of WHO God is that will ensure Moses' success as leader, fulfilling God's command.
I have always loved this story, but most often focused on the big, miraculous, exciting things that happened. Today, thanks to the questions in our study, I am focused more on what God reveals about himself and what that means to me. What is God revealing to you? Write down your answers as they first come to you. But don't forget about it as you go about your life. Allow the questions and the Scripture to remain with you throughout your day and your week. Come back to the questions later and see if your perspective has changed or more has been revealed as you spend time with God's Word.
The next time you have a conversation with God and He calls you to something you don't think you can do, call on YAHWEH. When you feel like God is far away, pray to THE LORD, YAHWEH and remember His promises. YAHWEH IS and always WILL BE, He is with us, He is merciful, gracious, rich in unfailing love and forgiveness; He is a strong fortress and will save us from our sins. These words and many more descriptions of YAHWEH can be found in the "passages for continued study" on page 37. As you read through these passages, make note of the descriptors of THE LORD. What comfort and strength do you receive from them? If you don't yet have the book, I am happy to list the passages in the comments, just ask :)
In your journal this week, write about a time when you met THE LORD, YAHWEH. Your experience may not have included a burning bush, but anytime God is with us during a challenge is significant. As you recall the time, reflect on how you felt before, during, and after. Record how the experience effected you and those around you.
"May the LORD bless you and protect you. May the LORD smile on you and be gracious to you. May the LORD show you his favor and give you his peace." Numbers 6: 24-26
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Have you ever felt like God is just up there, far away and uninterested in life here on earth? I have and suspect that even the most devout have too, even if it was fleetingly. Sometimes, when life is difficult, we wonder if God takes any notice.
He does! In the reading for this week, Exodus 3: 1-20, we meet THE LORD, YAHWEH, "... a name closely linked to God's redeeming acts in the history of his chosen people". (The Names of God, by Ann Spangler, pg 33) It is in the character of this name, YAHWEH, that we take comfort that God has been and will be, always present with those who "... obey the commands of the LORD your God and walk in his ways, the LORD will establish you as his holy people as he solemnly promised to do." Deut. 28:9.
In our reading, Moses is called in a not-so-subtle, yet very private & personal way, to lead God's people out of Egypt. He comes to Moses, they have a conversation in which God tells him of His concerns about the Israelites, and of the rescue that Moses will lead in His name. Moses questions God's choice in leadership, but God assures him and promises to be with him. It is this revelation of WHO God is that will ensure Moses' success as leader, fulfilling God's command.
I have always loved this story, but most often focused on the big, miraculous, exciting things that happened. Today, thanks to the questions in our study, I am focused more on what God reveals about himself and what that means to me. What is God revealing to you? Write down your answers as they first come to you. But don't forget about it as you go about your life. Allow the questions and the Scripture to remain with you throughout your day and your week. Come back to the questions later and see if your perspective has changed or more has been revealed as you spend time with God's Word.
The next time you have a conversation with God and He calls you to something you don't think you can do, call on YAHWEH. When you feel like God is far away, pray to THE LORD, YAHWEH and remember His promises. YAHWEH IS and always WILL BE, He is with us, He is merciful, gracious, rich in unfailing love and forgiveness; He is a strong fortress and will save us from our sins. These words and many more descriptions of YAHWEH can be found in the "passages for continued study" on page 37. As you read through these passages, make note of the descriptors of THE LORD. What comfort and strength do you receive from them? If you don't yet have the book, I am happy to list the passages in the comments, just ask :)
In your journal this week, write about a time when you met THE LORD, YAHWEH. Your experience may not have included a burning bush, but anytime God is with us during a challenge is significant. As you recall the time, reflect on how you felt before, during, and after. Record how the experience effected you and those around you.
"May the LORD bless you and protect you. May the LORD smile on you and be gracious to you. May the LORD show you his favor and give you his peace." Numbers 6: 24-26
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
One step at a time
"Abraham looked up and there in a thicket he saw a ram caught by its horns." Genesis 22:13a
Have you ever found yourself at the corner of "a rock and a hard place"? What did you do? Where did you turn? What was the state of your heart?
In this week's study, we are exploring YAHWEH YIREH, The Lord Will Provide.
The verse above is taken from the larger story found in Genesis 22. God tests Abraham by asking him to sacrifice his only and long awaited for son, Isaac. Personally, I have gone through the gamut of emotions with this passage over the years. From horror that God would ask such a thing, to horror that Abraham would go as far as he did! I've also been sad, mad, confused, worried and scared.
I've even put myself in Sarah's shoes a few times and wondered what she was thinking as her husband & son went off into the dessert. Did she have a feeling something was amiss? I truly struggled with the whole idea that God would put his trusted servant to the test in this way. Hadn't Abraham already proven how faithful his was? And by extension, if He tested Abraham like this, what could He have in store for me?! I'm not up to that kind of test!
However, as I read it with the understanding of The Lord Will Provide, I see that perhaps this is as much a test for us, the readers, as it was for Abraham. Perhaps we are meant to struggle with this story of belief, faith, sacrifice, and provision. Maybe we're suppose to move forward, one step at a time, and allow God to provide for our future, just as Abraham trusted that God would provide a lamb for the sacrifice.
Our author, Ann Spangler, brings this idea to light when she asks us to compare this scene with John 1:29, where John the Baptist declares Jesus as the Lamb of God. Spend some time with question 3. I'd love to hear your thoughts on the connection between the scenes AND how it relates to your life.
When have you met YAHWEH YIREH? When has The Lord provided for you? I'd love to read your story of provision! Don't forget, click here to go to the website to Comment, if you are reading this in your e-mail.
I look forward to seeing many of you in person on Friday morning! Remember, though, this is also for those who cannot make it in person. Follow along in the book (The Names of God by Ann Spangler) and connect with the group through the comments. If you are a friend or member of our home church, Redeemer Lutheran, connect with us during other events and on Sunday mornings! If you are joining us through this blog and live in the area, we'd love to meet you at Redeemer! Go to our website for all the details of where & when.
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Have you ever found yourself at the corner of "a rock and a hard place"? What did you do? Where did you turn? What was the state of your heart?
In this week's study, we are exploring YAHWEH YIREH, The Lord Will Provide.
The verse above is taken from the larger story found in Genesis 22. God tests Abraham by asking him to sacrifice his only and long awaited for son, Isaac. Personally, I have gone through the gamut of emotions with this passage over the years. From horror that God would ask such a thing, to horror that Abraham would go as far as he did! I've also been sad, mad, confused, worried and scared.
I've even put myself in Sarah's shoes a few times and wondered what she was thinking as her husband & son went off into the dessert. Did she have a feeling something was amiss? I truly struggled with the whole idea that God would put his trusted servant to the test in this way. Hadn't Abraham already proven how faithful his was? And by extension, if He tested Abraham like this, what could He have in store for me?! I'm not up to that kind of test!
However, as I read it with the understanding of The Lord Will Provide, I see that perhaps this is as much a test for us, the readers, as it was for Abraham. Perhaps we are meant to struggle with this story of belief, faith, sacrifice, and provision. Maybe we're suppose to move forward, one step at a time, and allow God to provide for our future, just as Abraham trusted that God would provide a lamb for the sacrifice.
Our author, Ann Spangler, brings this idea to light when she asks us to compare this scene with John 1:29, where John the Baptist declares Jesus as the Lamb of God. Spend some time with question 3. I'd love to hear your thoughts on the connection between the scenes AND how it relates to your life.
When have you met YAHWEH YIREH? When has The Lord provided for you? I'd love to read your story of provision! Don't forget, click here to go to the website to Comment, if you are reading this in your e-mail.
I look forward to seeing many of you in person on Friday morning! Remember, though, this is also for those who cannot make it in person. Follow along in the book (The Names of God by Ann Spangler) and connect with the group through the comments. If you are a friend or member of our home church, Redeemer Lutheran, connect with us during other events and on Sunday mornings! If you are joining us through this blog and live in the area, we'd love to meet you at Redeemer! Go to our website for all the details of where & when.
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
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