"When Naomi saw that Ruth was determined to go with her, she said nothing more." Ruth 1:18
Welcome to chapter 3 of "The Girl's Still Got It"! In this chapter Liz breaks down 4 short verses that are filled with high drama, bold exclamations, deep commitment, and emotion.
Last week we wondered what life Orpah & Ruth had to go back to: could they find new husbands after being married to Israelites? Were they welcome in their mother's homes after being childless widows? Was Naomi looking out for them or for herself by suggesting they return? I like to think that returning to their families was a smart move; that finding new husbands was possible and that they would be allowed, if not welcomed, back home. Otherwise, their initial decision to leave with Naomi would not be significant. And Ruth's conviction to stay with Naomi would not be divine.
As we read Liz's dramatic interpretation of Ruth 1:14-18, she paints a vivid picture of Ruth and Naomi. As Orpah starts back toward Moab, Naomi tries again to urge Ruth to go with her. But, Ruth's response is defiant and courageous and (I think) divinely inspired. Liz helps us to understand the importance and the impact Ruth's words are having on Naomi. We have heard these words before, so often perhaps, that they have lost a bit of their edge. But, imagine hearing these words spoken to you or by you during a crossroads in your life. Perhaps you have... how did that moment change your life?
I'm not fully convinced on every aspect of Liz's imagining of Naomi. She did a lot of research and Naomi's words and actions do lend themselves to a certain personality, but I'm not buying in 100% to her dramatization. Mostly because I'm about Naomi's age (though not exactly her time of life) and as I read the book of Ruth, I find myself relating to her more than to Ruth. I tend to be a bit of a complainer, even in the midst of doing something I don't want to do, but know it's right thing to do. So, when we read verse 18 (above) and Liz & other scholars interprets it as "angry, fearful, exhausted, sullen, depressed, beaten down" (pg. 52) I disagree.
On page 45, Liz brings up the possibility that Naomi is testing her daughters-in-law, in a roundabout way. This makes total sense to me! To explain my thought process would take a short paper, so I won't get into that. But, let the idea sit with you for a bit and see how it changes your view of this turning point. In the end, I think Naomi's silence is her own turning point. After all, what more is there to say after seeing the work God did in Ruth's heart? The test was over and is it possible, that Naomi had a slight smile on her lips? Could she be pleased that she will have a loving, strong, courageous companion for the rest of her days? Not that Naomi would let on - that tough exterior built up over the last 10 years will take some time to completely fall away.
A few other things to really pay attention to:
* "But"... on page 46 Liz expands on this storytelling tool. It's what makes stories so exciting!!
* The idea of leaving everything you know and embracing a whole new way of life - talk about an exciting & scary adventure! (page 48-49; Kindle readers: after "Your people will be my people...").
* We plant seeds, but the Lord changes hearts (page 49; Kindle: under the heading THE BIG ONE )
To deepen your understanding and your faith, spend some time answering the Study Guide questions in the back of the book. This time spent in quiet reflection of how the stories of the Bible are connected to each other and how they inform and impact our lives, is where faith grows in breadth and depth.
Part "b" of question 2 is one we will specifically discuss. Feel free to start the discussion in the comment section below or (click here to go to the blog). We'll make a list on Friday and I'll share it in it's entirety (a combination of blog comments and the Friday list) on the blog next week. I can't wait to see what you each come up with! Other comments and questions are welcome, too!
Don't forget, we are collecting much needed women's products this Friday. Thank you for your generous donations. In this way we are doing God's work with our hands and directly impacting our community, helping those in need.
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 21, 2015
Monday, September 14, 2015
TGSTI - Chapter 2
"Then Naomi heard in Moab that the Lord had blessed his people in Judah by giving them good crops again. So Naomi and her daughters-in-law got ready to leave Moab to return to her homeland." Ruth 1:6
Yesterday was Rally Day at church. A day to kick-off the new Sunday School year, to celebrate the mission trip of the Youth over the summer and enjoy a church picnic on the front lawn. A day to rally God's people after a "time apart" (aka summer break). It's a day of making connections and reflecting on the work of our church with each other.
During this time, I had the opportunity to talk with a few people about the youth. We are fortunate to have an active youth group and Sunday school. However, we still see the decline of young people's participation from the time they are confirmed until they have children of their own; and wondered and guessed as to why this happens. Those high school, college, and early adult years seem to be a normal 'time apart' in our personal faith cycle. I know I am certainly guilty of it. And 2 of my children are in that time (high school & college) and don't always make it to Sunday services, even when the rest of us are going. There are as many reasons why this happens as there are people; but it doesn't mean they (we) have turned out backs on God.
When I read chapter 2 of The Girl's Still Got It, where Liz talks about our opening verse (above) I was reminded of the natural faith cycle of regular attendance and regular absence. I'm not saying it's something we should do (take time away from the church), but it seems to be something we do, as humans. Naomi left for 10+ years, the prodigal son left for a time, and our young people often find themselves attending in an off-and-on fashion from about age 15-25 (NOT a statistic, this is from my own personal experience). And certainly not everyone! There are active faith organizations in every high school & on every college campus. There are dynamic, energizing ministries that are made up of mostly that age group. So, this is not a blanket statement, but one I think many churches notice.
My point is: Naomi was in a foreign land, but she did not abandon her faith. She kept her eyes on the Lord. She kept her ear tuned to news from her homeland. Why? Hope. She knew, even in her difficulties and whining, that the Lord would not abandon her. It wasn't easy and she was not the most graceful throughout the situation, but she was brave and eager to rejoin her people and return to God, physically, to dwell in the land he had given her people. (For me, "Judah" represents my church.)
I think it's that way with the 'least represented' age group. It may be that this is a natural cycle of exploring, testing, and asserting one's faith in a different direction. It's not that they (we - because this can occur at any age!) turn our backs on God, or our faith, but something else pulls us in a different direction. The world, in Naomi's case starvation, has a more immediate priority for a time. But that doesn't mean that we completely lose faith. Even if we are like the prodigal son and live it up for a while, we know that God will not abandon us.
If we keep a listening ear tuned to the heart of God, we will always return to Him. And He will always receive us "Filled with love and compassion..." Luke 15:20a.
There is tons of great stuff in chapter 2! If you haven't already read it, read it today. Take the rest of the week to answer the questions in the study guide. Jot down your answers and any other insights you have as you read. Liz is great at explaining what's 'lost in translation' and really brings these verses to life! How does it translate into your life? What parallels to do you see? How is it informing your faith journey?
I am eager to know how you are doing with this! If you are reading this in your e-mail click here to post in the Comment section. Let's start a conversation!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Yesterday was Rally Day at church. A day to kick-off the new Sunday School year, to celebrate the mission trip of the Youth over the summer and enjoy a church picnic on the front lawn. A day to rally God's people after a "time apart" (aka summer break). It's a day of making connections and reflecting on the work of our church with each other.
During this time, I had the opportunity to talk with a few people about the youth. We are fortunate to have an active youth group and Sunday school. However, we still see the decline of young people's participation from the time they are confirmed until they have children of their own; and wondered and guessed as to why this happens. Those high school, college, and early adult years seem to be a normal 'time apart' in our personal faith cycle. I know I am certainly guilty of it. And 2 of my children are in that time (high school & college) and don't always make it to Sunday services, even when the rest of us are going. There are as many reasons why this happens as there are people; but it doesn't mean they (we) have turned out backs on God.
When I read chapter 2 of The Girl's Still Got It, where Liz talks about our opening verse (above) I was reminded of the natural faith cycle of regular attendance and regular absence. I'm not saying it's something we should do (take time away from the church), but it seems to be something we do, as humans. Naomi left for 10+ years, the prodigal son left for a time, and our young people often find themselves attending in an off-and-on fashion from about age 15-25 (NOT a statistic, this is from my own personal experience). And certainly not everyone! There are active faith organizations in every high school & on every college campus. There are dynamic, energizing ministries that are made up of mostly that age group. So, this is not a blanket statement, but one I think many churches notice.
My point is: Naomi was in a foreign land, but she did not abandon her faith. She kept her eyes on the Lord. She kept her ear tuned to news from her homeland. Why? Hope. She knew, even in her difficulties and whining, that the Lord would not abandon her. It wasn't easy and she was not the most graceful throughout the situation, but she was brave and eager to rejoin her people and return to God, physically, to dwell in the land he had given her people. (For me, "Judah" represents my church.)
I think it's that way with the 'least represented' age group. It may be that this is a natural cycle of exploring, testing, and asserting one's faith in a different direction. It's not that they (we - because this can occur at any age!) turn our backs on God, or our faith, but something else pulls us in a different direction. The world, in Naomi's case starvation, has a more immediate priority for a time. But that doesn't mean that we completely lose faith. Even if we are like the prodigal son and live it up for a while, we know that God will not abandon us.
If we keep a listening ear tuned to the heart of God, we will always return to Him. And He will always receive us "Filled with love and compassion..." Luke 15:20a.
There is tons of great stuff in chapter 2! If you haven't already read it, read it today. Take the rest of the week to answer the questions in the study guide. Jot down your answers and any other insights you have as you read. Liz is great at explaining what's 'lost in translation' and really brings these verses to life! How does it translate into your life? What parallels to do you see? How is it informing your faith journey?
I am eager to know how you are doing with this! If you are reading this in your e-mail click here to post in the Comment section. Let's start a conversation!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Friday, September 4, 2015
The Girl's Still Got It! aka TGSGI!
"Then Naomi heard in Moab that the Lord had blessed his people in Judah by giving them good crops again. So Naomi and her daughters-in-law got ready to leave Moab to return to her homeland."
Ruth 1:6
If you have or know of school aged children, this week was an exciting (hopefully) week! Back-to-school! In most cases the children are returning to both the familiar and the unfamiliar. They are often returning to a school building they know and will know some kids in their class. But they will also have new kids in their class, a new teacher and new expectations. If you've ever relocated over the summer, you & your children have had the experience of back-to-school where everything is new!
So it is in our story of Ruth and Naomi. Naomi has been living 'out of town' for a long time; she is "returning to her homeland", but some things will be different. Ruth & Orpah, the dutiful daughters-in-law, start to go with her. Guessing that the prospect of a whole new life is a bit overwhelming for Orpah, she takes the opportunity Naomi offers and returns to Moab. Ruth, however sticks around. Her passionate words are found in Ruth 1:16-17.
Looking at just this experience of returning (Naomi) and going (Ruth) to Judah, ask yourself how you would feel in each character's place? When was the last time you returned to a "place" (this could also be a situation, person, idea) from which you had a long absence.
Have you ever had to pick up and move to a whole new "place" (again, this could be forming new relationships, meeting new challenges, etc)?
How did that make you feel in each of these situations? Perhaps you are in the midst of this right now, can you describe your thoughts & emotions?
Now that you've put yourself in Naomi's sandals and Ruth's sandals, I hope you have a stronger connections to these women. Yes, these two women lived a long time ago, in a very different time & place. But, we have much in common with them and I hope you are starting to feel it!
I'm so excited to get together with you to talk about all of this!! I wish we could meet for half the day! Alas, that is not possible. So, come here and type your comments, insights, & questions. We can begin or continue conversations right here on-line!
Read "Before We Dive In" and "Chapter One" of The Girl's Still Got It, prior to our first meeting! Take a few notes and jot down your thoughts & answers to the questions in the Study Guide in the back of the book.
I'll see you in ONE WEEK!!! In person or on-line, I cannot wait!
Friday, September 11 at 9:15 am!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Ruth 1:6
If you have or know of school aged children, this week was an exciting (hopefully) week! Back-to-school! In most cases the children are returning to both the familiar and the unfamiliar. They are often returning to a school building they know and will know some kids in their class. But they will also have new kids in their class, a new teacher and new expectations. If you've ever relocated over the summer, you & your children have had the experience of back-to-school where everything is new!
So it is in our story of Ruth and Naomi. Naomi has been living 'out of town' for a long time; she is "returning to her homeland", but some things will be different. Ruth & Orpah, the dutiful daughters-in-law, start to go with her. Guessing that the prospect of a whole new life is a bit overwhelming for Orpah, she takes the opportunity Naomi offers and returns to Moab. Ruth, however sticks around. Her passionate words are found in Ruth 1:16-17.
Looking at just this experience of returning (Naomi) and going (Ruth) to Judah, ask yourself how you would feel in each character's place? When was the last time you returned to a "place" (this could also be a situation, person, idea) from which you had a long absence.
Have you ever had to pick up and move to a whole new "place" (again, this could be forming new relationships, meeting new challenges, etc)?
How did that make you feel in each of these situations? Perhaps you are in the midst of this right now, can you describe your thoughts & emotions?
Now that you've put yourself in Naomi's sandals and Ruth's sandals, I hope you have a stronger connections to these women. Yes, these two women lived a long time ago, in a very different time & place. But, we have much in common with them and I hope you are starting to feel it!
I'm so excited to get together with you to talk about all of this!! I wish we could meet for half the day! Alas, that is not possible. So, come here and type your comments, insights, & questions. We can begin or continue conversations right here on-line!
Read "Before We Dive In" and "Chapter One" of The Girl's Still Got It, prior to our first meeting! Take a few notes and jot down your thoughts & answers to the questions in the Study Guide in the back of the book.
I'll see you in ONE WEEK!!! In person or on-line, I cannot wait!
Friday, September 11 at 9:15 am!
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 1, 2015
Tasty Tuesday
"I scream! You scream! We all scream for ice cream!"
As summer winds down, one favorite memory for many people is indulging in ice cream! It's the perfect summer treat: smooth & creamy & refreshingly cold on a hot summer's day. Everyone has their favorite kind: soft serve, hard hand scooped, and gelato. Personally, I like them all and one of my favorites is vanilla ice cream on a soft, warm waffle!
Ice cream comes in every flavor you can imagine! From the standard chocolate & vanilla to the classic strawberry & butter pecan to the exotic mango and the strange lumberjack (waffle cone, maple syrup & crumbled bacon). You name it and someone, somewhere probably makes an ice cream flavor of it. Even how you eat it caters to an individual's fancy: you can get it on a stick, in a sandwich (chocolate, cookie, waffle), a cone (traditional or waffle), a bowl and even layered in cake. You can top it with nuts, fruits, candy & syrups! It's probably one of the most individual desserts ever invented!
From the ringing bell of the Ice Cream Truck to the long lines at the local ice cream parlor, it's a summer treat enjoyed by the masses! People make a living creating this delicious treat and some have built an empire on it!
This summer I discovered a "new" ice cream while browsing Pinterest! That form of social media can really cut into my productivity. But, I've made some great discoveries and No-Churn Ice Cream is one of them. This latest craze in dessert has probably been around for some time, but it's popularity is back in the spotlight! Just like traditional ice cream, you can create any flavor imaginable. The differences being: 1) it's base is only 3 ingredients and 2) the only kitchen appliance you need is a mixer. It's so simple it's dangerous! Don't believe me? Check out my Pinterest Board dedicated to Ice Cream. I used the basic chocolate ice cream recipe to create chocolate marshmallow, one of my family's favorites. This is something my family will be requesting (or making themselves) from now on!
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| No-Churn Chocolate Marshmallow Ice Cream |
As much as I love this no-churn ice cream craze, traditional ice cream is worth the extra effort on occasion. Especially if you have summer-fresh fruit on hand! There's nothing like fresh peaches, sweet & juicy & oh so delicious! God knew what he was doing when he created peaches, down to the enticing soft yellow-red of the outside, while the inside is a glorious golden color! I don't know how anyone can't like them! My son being one of those people - so strange! That just means more for the rest of us! We had a few peaches that were ripening faster than we could devour them, so I decided to get out my ice cream maker and churn some homemade peach ice cream! My mouth is watering just thinking about it! It certainly lived up to the high expectation of creating memories of summer's favorite dessert! And the combination of ice cream and fresh peaches could only be descried as "Mmmmm".
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| Homemade Traditional Vanilla-Peach Ice Cream |
Share your favorite ice cream flavor in the comments below! Do you have a favorite ice cream shop? I'd love to check it out (if it's close). In my town everyone goes to Denville Dairy, it's the summer (spring & fall) gathering place, especially after sporting events.
I hope you enjoy these last few official days of summer! Packing some homemade ice cream into your freezer may help you hold on to summer, even into autumn.
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Monday, August 31, 2015
Get Packing
"Which girl's still got it? Ruth's definitely got it! Yes, that Ruth. The one in the Bible. And her mother-in-law, Naomi? She's still got it too. So do you, beloved." ~Liz Curtis Higgs, The Girl's Still Got It
On days that I'm feeling like I just don't have it all together, this message comforts me. Lately, every day feels like that! Maybe it's the time of year - packing away the summer attitude and getting ready for a new school year. And for the second time, it means physically packing up our oldest daughter's belongings and moving her into her dorm. It is a bitter-sweet time of year and a bitter-sweet time in life.
I can only imagine what Naomi was feeling when Elimelech told her to get packing! She was faced with packing up the family & all their possessions (or at least most of the household) and moving far away! Far away from what they've ever known, far from friends, far from family. BUT, life was hard in Bethlehem; and now a severe famine has taken hold of the land. A mom's gotta do what a mom's gotta do to save her children! So Naomi packed her bags and moved. There's no doubt in my mind that it was a bitter-sweet time in Naomi's life.
In our study of Naomi & Ruth we will come to know both the bitterness and the sweetness of Naomi. I know, the book is named for Ruth, but as a middle-aged mom (with some of my friends being grandmas) I find that I identify with Naomi as much as I appreciate the story of Ruth. Both women are transformed over the course of the story. And Liz's opening words indicate that although the book carries Ruth's name, it's not all about her. It's about Naomi too, their relationship, their faith, and their hope.
What does that mean for me and for you? One lesson may be that no matter what stage of life we are in, no matter what hardships we face, no matter if we are a new believer or have lost our way, God does not give up on us. Even when we can't see how things could possibly get better, when we think we're 'past saving' or 'too old to be useful', God sees only His children and wants to make sure we are safe in His care.
I am so excited to start discussing this book with you! The Book of Ruth and The Girl's Still Got It has something for everyone! It's a many-leveled love story! It's also a journey story of growth, faith, and redemption, with a little sauciness thrown in! So, grab your book, your journal and ask a friend to join you!!
Don't have your book yet?! Go HERE to support Redeemer Youth & Family Ministry by purchasing it through Amazon. They have a great selection of used books at fantastic prices!!
Get Reading! Please read "Before We Dive In" and Chapter 1 before our first gathering on September 11, 9:15 am. Note: this is a little earlier than past years! I will have the coffee & tea on at 9, so feel free to arrive early!
Can't make it Friday mornings? That's okay! That's why I started this blog! You can read along, post comments & start discussions right here on the blog! Want to talk? I'd love to meet up over coffee, e-mail or have a word on Sunday morning! If there's one thing I love more than reading a book, it's talking about it! And I'm betting that I'm not the only one...
If you've never done an on-line Bible study, go ahead and take the plunge today! Everything you need for the study is in Liz's book (the study guide is in the back). You can do it on your own schedule and keep pace by following the blog. It's a great way for a busy woman to stay connected to The Word and our community.
I look forward to taking this journey with you!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
On days that I'm feeling like I just don't have it all together, this message comforts me. Lately, every day feels like that! Maybe it's the time of year - packing away the summer attitude and getting ready for a new school year. And for the second time, it means physically packing up our oldest daughter's belongings and moving her into her dorm. It is a bitter-sweet time of year and a bitter-sweet time in life.
I can only imagine what Naomi was feeling when Elimelech told her to get packing! She was faced with packing up the family & all their possessions (or at least most of the household) and moving far away! Far away from what they've ever known, far from friends, far from family. BUT, life was hard in Bethlehem; and now a severe famine has taken hold of the land. A mom's gotta do what a mom's gotta do to save her children! So Naomi packed her bags and moved. There's no doubt in my mind that it was a bitter-sweet time in Naomi's life.
In our study of Naomi & Ruth we will come to know both the bitterness and the sweetness of Naomi. I know, the book is named for Ruth, but as a middle-aged mom (with some of my friends being grandmas) I find that I identify with Naomi as much as I appreciate the story of Ruth. Both women are transformed over the course of the story. And Liz's opening words indicate that although the book carries Ruth's name, it's not all about her. It's about Naomi too, their relationship, their faith, and their hope.
What does that mean for me and for you? One lesson may be that no matter what stage of life we are in, no matter what hardships we face, no matter if we are a new believer or have lost our way, God does not give up on us. Even when we can't see how things could possibly get better, when we think we're 'past saving' or 'too old to be useful', God sees only His children and wants to make sure we are safe in His care.
I am so excited to start discussing this book with you! The Book of Ruth and The Girl's Still Got It has something for everyone! It's a many-leveled love story! It's also a journey story of growth, faith, and redemption, with a little sauciness thrown in! So, grab your book, your journal and ask a friend to join you!!
Don't have your book yet?! Go HERE to support Redeemer Youth & Family Ministry by purchasing it through Amazon. They have a great selection of used books at fantastic prices!!
Get Reading! Please read "Before We Dive In" and Chapter 1 before our first gathering on September 11, 9:15 am. Note: this is a little earlier than past years! I will have the coffee & tea on at 9, so feel free to arrive early!
Can't make it Friday mornings? That's okay! That's why I started this blog! You can read along, post comments & start discussions right here on the blog! Want to talk? I'd love to meet up over coffee, e-mail or have a word on Sunday morning! If there's one thing I love more than reading a book, it's talking about it! And I'm betting that I'm not the only one...
If you've never done an on-line Bible study, go ahead and take the plunge today! Everything you need for the study is in Liz's book (the study guide is in the back). You can do it on your own schedule and keep pace by following the blog. It's a great way for a busy woman to stay connected to The Word and our community.
I look forward to taking this journey with you!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Monday, August 24, 2015
Peeking Over the Horizon
"In the days when the judges ruled in Israel, a man from Bethlehem in Judah left the country because of a severe famine. He took his wife and two sons and went to live in the country of Moab." Ruth 1:1
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here today. As I'm peeking over the horizon of August into September I am both saddened that summer is nearly over and excited to gather with you once again!
I've been in August limbo with vacation, end-of-summer, start-of-hockey, back-to-school craziness! When August arrives I feel like summer has just begun & is nearly over, all at the same time. It hits me that there was so much more I had planned to do and just didn't get to it yet. The stores & TV commercials are already in back-to-school mode and of course, hockey is in full swing. Some day August will be just another month in the year and I'll miss all this, but until then I have to admit, August is a 'lost month' for me. It is a month where I feel like I live a split personality: summer laziness & full swing craziness! But I am thankful for every spinning minute!!
I could be facing a life like Naomi's...
In our next book, The Girl's Still Got It by Liz Curtis Higgs, we meet a wife & mother named Naomi. The opening verse is not your typical "once upon a time" beginning. In fact, it's about as bleak a beginning as you can get! Naomi is peeking over the horizon to an unknown future in a foreign & unfriendly land. She is following her husband to a forbidden place in hopes of saving her family from starvation.
To refresh your memory (or in case you didn't know), the time of the judges was not the best time for Israel, to put it mildly. In my Bible, Judges chapters 1-3 are given the heading "The Military Failure of Israel" and over & over again, the Israelites turn their backs on God. If you haven't yet read the book of Judges, you should. It's an interesting, scary, "Mad Max" kind of read and many scholars draw similarities to today's society. The book of Ruth takes place during the time of Judges, setting the stage of the story. On top of the religious upheaval & continuous warring with their neighbors, a famine sets in. Could it get any worse?! Read the book of Ruth to find out!
On Friday, September 11 at 9:15am, we'll dive right in to our new study. In order to finish the book by December 11th, we'll need to start right away! (Yes, I know it's 14 weeks, but we'll have 2 weeks off in November.)
Read "Before We Dive In" and "Chapter 1" before our first gathering. Read Ruth in your Bible, too. Choose your favorite translation & grab a refreshing beverage - you can probably read the whole book of Ruth before you finish your drink! It's only 4 chapters. It will take a little longer to read our study book, but Liz has such an engaging writing style, you won't want to put it down!
Don't have your book yet? You can get it here, on Liz's website. Better yet, support our Youth & Family Ministry by going here and ordering through Amazon.
In order to get the most out of our time in The Word, it's important to ponder what we've read and how it applies to our lives - otherwise, it's just story time. God wants to work amazing things in us and through us, but if we don't take the time to listen and apply His teaching, we won't be ready. That's where the Study Guide come to the rescue!
After reading each chapter, turn to the back of the book and find the Study Guide (pg 175). Our topics of conversation will begin with these questions every week. Write out your thoughts in a cute notebook or journal. It helps during discussion time - the sound of crickets can be very awkward! And as we've talked about before, journaling our thoughts has tons of benefits! The one that I struggle with the most is slowing down long enough to write out my thoughts. In the fast paced, high demanding, instant gratification world, writing is the opposite of all of that! But it's cathartic & therapeutic & just what we need!
I'd love to hear how keeping a journal has influenced your life. Whether it's a faith journal, a personal journal, or a travel journal, how has it helped you? What benefits have you noticed?
I cannot wait to get started!!! I'll see you on September 11th, at 9:15 am, in the "library" of Redeemer Lutheran Church! I'll have the tea & coffee on and light ReFreshments!
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here today. As I'm peeking over the horizon of August into September I am both saddened that summer is nearly over and excited to gather with you once again!
I've been in August limbo with vacation, end-of-summer, start-of-hockey, back-to-school craziness! When August arrives I feel like summer has just begun & is nearly over, all at the same time. It hits me that there was so much more I had planned to do and just didn't get to it yet. The stores & TV commercials are already in back-to-school mode and of course, hockey is in full swing. Some day August will be just another month in the year and I'll miss all this, but until then I have to admit, August is a 'lost month' for me. It is a month where I feel like I live a split personality: summer laziness & full swing craziness! But I am thankful for every spinning minute!!
I could be facing a life like Naomi's...
In our next book, The Girl's Still Got It by Liz Curtis Higgs, we meet a wife & mother named Naomi. The opening verse is not your typical "once upon a time" beginning. In fact, it's about as bleak a beginning as you can get! Naomi is peeking over the horizon to an unknown future in a foreign & unfriendly land. She is following her husband to a forbidden place in hopes of saving her family from starvation.
To refresh your memory (or in case you didn't know), the time of the judges was not the best time for Israel, to put it mildly. In my Bible, Judges chapters 1-3 are given the heading "The Military Failure of Israel" and over & over again, the Israelites turn their backs on God. If you haven't yet read the book of Judges, you should. It's an interesting, scary, "Mad Max" kind of read and many scholars draw similarities to today's society. The book of Ruth takes place during the time of Judges, setting the stage of the story. On top of the religious upheaval & continuous warring with their neighbors, a famine sets in. Could it get any worse?! Read the book of Ruth to find out!
On Friday, September 11 at 9:15am, we'll dive right in to our new study. In order to finish the book by December 11th, we'll need to start right away! (Yes, I know it's 14 weeks, but we'll have 2 weeks off in November.)
Start reading today!
Don't have your book yet? You can get it here, on Liz's website. Better yet, support our Youth & Family Ministry by going here and ordering through Amazon.
In order to get the most out of our time in The Word, it's important to ponder what we've read and how it applies to our lives - otherwise, it's just story time. God wants to work amazing things in us and through us, but if we don't take the time to listen and apply His teaching, we won't be ready. That's where the Study Guide come to the rescue!
After reading each chapter, turn to the back of the book and find the Study Guide (pg 175). Our topics of conversation will begin with these questions every week. Write out your thoughts in a cute notebook or journal. It helps during discussion time - the sound of crickets can be very awkward! And as we've talked about before, journaling our thoughts has tons of benefits! The one that I struggle with the most is slowing down long enough to write out my thoughts. In the fast paced, high demanding, instant gratification world, writing is the opposite of all of that! But it's cathartic & therapeutic & just what we need!
I'd love to hear how keeping a journal has influenced your life. Whether it's a faith journal, a personal journal, or a travel journal, how has it helped you? What benefits have you noticed?
I cannot wait to get started!!! I'll see you on September 11th, at 9:15 am, in the "library" of Redeemer Lutheran Church! I'll have the tea & coffee on and light ReFreshments!
Encourage a friend and bring an open heart!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Wednesday, July 29, 2015
Morning Dovotions for a good day!
"I wait quietly before God, for my salvation comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress where I will never be shaken." Psalm 62:1-2
Good Morning!
What a beautiful summer day! I hope this post finds you all enjoying these warm, sunshiny days. I miss meeting together with you and though I want the remainder of the summer to go as slowly as possible, I do look forward to seeing you again regularly in September with our next book, "The Girl's Still Got It" by Liz Curtis Higgs.
In the meantime....
We have talked about how important it is to stay in The Word daily. Giving part of each day to spending quiet time with God to renew and strengthen us for the day ahead; to secure His teachings in our hearts; to be spiritually fed every day so that we can become the woman God designed each of us to be. Proverbs 31 Ministries is a strong believer in this; several of their leaders have studies and/or groups that encourage starting the day with devotion. This summer we have been following one of those groups' formats, "Good Morning Girls". How have you been doing?
Me - not so great :(
I'm good with my evening prayer. You know, the one at bedtime that I sometimes drift off to sleep in the middle of! I guess it comes from my childhood and teaching my own children to pray before falling off to sleep.
My mornings are for coffee & breakfast, vitamins & dog medicine, forcing kids out of bed and making them breakfast, throwing in a load of laundry, and figuring out what I'm doing for the rest of the day! Mornings are a time of action, not meditation.
However, when I talk to people who spend a few minutes every morning of quiet meditation and prayer, even at the expense of sleep, they possess an attitude of positive energy I admire. So I have been working on it; some days are better than others. I'm okay with the fact that it's a work in progress. I cannot change decades of ingrained habits in a matter of a few weeks. I continue to do my best to start the day by giving my first thoughts to God and asking that he be with me throughout the day. I hope you will continue to do this, too.
Did you know there's an app for that?! Yes, Proverbs 31 Ministries has developed an app to help you spend the first 5 minutes of your day in The Word! If you are technology inclined or not, it's a great, simple app that makes it just as easy to read Scripture in the morning as it is to check your e-mail!
Click here to read more about the free app and a devotion from P31! It's worth the click!!
Perhaps you already have a morning devotion you enjoy, but if you don't and have been looking for something to help, check out the free app, First 5. I have been using it for a few days and I like it. There are a few things I would like to be improved, but overall this app has me reading Scripture before my feet touch the ground in the morning!
I know the blog posts have been few & far between the last few weeks and I can't promise they'll be any better in the next few (camping trip coming up all next week), but I will post a few things before the end of summer! Honestly, I don't know how bloggers do it every day - they must not sleep or have someone else take care of their daily "life things" like cooking, cleaning, laundry, etc. I love posting, but lately life is just a little scattered. You know what I'm talking about :)
I'd love to hear how your summer is going. How have you been staying in the Word, your struggles & victories with daily devotion. Insights & questions you've been pondering. Adventures far & near.
Have a fabulous day! I miss you!
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 21, 2015
Tasty Tuesday
"Mmmmm! Smell this! Oooo, this smells so good! Ahhhh!" ~Shelly Housel, moving from plant to plant in her herb garden
Is it okay to quote myself? I'm sure there's lots of thought provoking, herb-related quotes in the world, but this captures an herb's best quality - how it effects people. When I walk through an herb garden, I can't help but touch the plants and take deep breathes. If you came with me on my meanderings, you may laugh at my habit of gently pulling on the plant leaves and then smelling my hands. It looks funny, but it is intoxicating!
Right now, my garden consists of herbs in small pots on my porch. The soil in my backyard is mostly rock, so I find it difficult to dig a real garden, even though herbs usually do well in various kinds of terrain. Herbs do equally well in containers and for things like mint & catnip, it's recommended because they can totally take over a garden! The draw back to herb container gardening is that they do require regular watering: not my strong suit. Thank goodness herbs are fairly hardy and can withstand my occasional neglect. This year my husband has made that task much easier by installing one of those pocket hoses. I love that thing! One of my most dreaded chores is to move a heavy, unwieldy hose, whether it's the central vac (which I no long use, in part because of the hose) or the garden hose, I work up quite a sweat trying to get the thing uncoiled and recoiled. Seriously, you'd think I was wrestling a boa constrictor if you saw me! I LOVE the pocket hose and so do my plants!
This year I planted 2 mint varieties, oregano, basil, parsley, cilantro, lemon balm, lemon grass, catnip, citronella, and lavender. Is there anything better than making dinner and running to the back porch to finish it off with fresh cut herbs from the garden? My tomatoes are almost ready for harvesting and I can't wait to eat a Caprese salad with my homegrown tomatoes & fresh basil leaves! Mmmm, that will be a little slice of heaven!
My project, however, is cultivating a larger lavender garden! I was inspired by my trip to San Francisco. They planted herbs everywhere, especially lavender! And before you say, "it's Tasty Tuesday, this is suppose to be about food", let me tell you, you can eat lavender. I'm sure most of you knew that already, but there are probably some of you picturing a slice of cake that tastes like soap from Crabtree & Evelyn. Trust me, lavender is edible! I had a scrumptious lavender French macaron (French spelling) from Miette's in The Ferry Building. The trick is to use the right kind of lavender and not too much of it! The flowers are beautiful sprinkled on top of cakes & cupcakes. It can be used in hot and iced teas, too! I've even seen the herb & the flower candied. The possibilities are endless. And if it's still not your taste, it has tons of other personal and household uses, not to mention it's a bug deterrent in the garden!
Here's a close up of my current, medium sized pot of lavender. I have made several cuttings that will root on the window sill over the next few weeks. The plan is to then pot them, nurture them over the winter, and plant them in the front garden in the spring!
Do you have an herb garden? I'd love to hear about what's planted in it. Even if you haven't had great success, maybe we could give you some helpful tips. What favorite herbs to you use regularly use in your cooking? Would you be willing to try a lavender flavored macaron?
I look forward to hearing all about your fragrant and useful herb gardens!! I can smell their tasty goodness already!
Don't forget, go to the blog to make your comments!
Thank you for reading & commenting - your engagement feeds my soul and connects our community!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Is it okay to quote myself? I'm sure there's lots of thought provoking, herb-related quotes in the world, but this captures an herb's best quality - how it effects people. When I walk through an herb garden, I can't help but touch the plants and take deep breathes. If you came with me on my meanderings, you may laugh at my habit of gently pulling on the plant leaves and then smelling my hands. It looks funny, but it is intoxicating!
Right now, my garden consists of herbs in small pots on my porch. The soil in my backyard is mostly rock, so I find it difficult to dig a real garden, even though herbs usually do well in various kinds of terrain. Herbs do equally well in containers and for things like mint & catnip, it's recommended because they can totally take over a garden! The draw back to herb container gardening is that they do require regular watering: not my strong suit. Thank goodness herbs are fairly hardy and can withstand my occasional neglect. This year my husband has made that task much easier by installing one of those pocket hoses. I love that thing! One of my most dreaded chores is to move a heavy, unwieldy hose, whether it's the central vac (which I no long use, in part because of the hose) or the garden hose, I work up quite a sweat trying to get the thing uncoiled and recoiled. Seriously, you'd think I was wrestling a boa constrictor if you saw me! I LOVE the pocket hose and so do my plants!
This year I planted 2 mint varieties, oregano, basil, parsley, cilantro, lemon balm, lemon grass, catnip, citronella, and lavender. Is there anything better than making dinner and running to the back porch to finish it off with fresh cut herbs from the garden? My tomatoes are almost ready for harvesting and I can't wait to eat a Caprese salad with my homegrown tomatoes & fresh basil leaves! Mmmm, that will be a little slice of heaven!
My project, however, is cultivating a larger lavender garden! I was inspired by my trip to San Francisco. They planted herbs everywhere, especially lavender! And before you say, "it's Tasty Tuesday, this is suppose to be about food", let me tell you, you can eat lavender. I'm sure most of you knew that already, but there are probably some of you picturing a slice of cake that tastes like soap from Crabtree & Evelyn. Trust me, lavender is edible! I had a scrumptious lavender French macaron (French spelling) from Miette's in The Ferry Building. The trick is to use the right kind of lavender and not too much of it! The flowers are beautiful sprinkled on top of cakes & cupcakes. It can be used in hot and iced teas, too! I've even seen the herb & the flower candied. The possibilities are endless. And if it's still not your taste, it has tons of other personal and household uses, not to mention it's a bug deterrent in the garden!
Here's a close up of my current, medium sized pot of lavender. I have made several cuttings that will root on the window sill over the next few weeks. The plan is to then pot them, nurture them over the winter, and plant them in the front garden in the spring!
Do you have an herb garden? I'd love to hear about what's planted in it. Even if you haven't had great success, maybe we could give you some helpful tips. What favorite herbs to you use regularly use in your cooking? Would you be willing to try a lavender flavored macaron?
I look forward to hearing all about your fragrant and useful herb gardens!! I can smell their tasty goodness already!
Don't forget, go to the blog to make your comments!
Thank you for reading & commenting - your engagement feeds my soul and connects our community!
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 7, 2015
Tasty Tuesday
"He was a bold man that first ate an oyster." Jonathan Swift
Did you ever wonder who decided to first eat an oyster, or clam or fish, or many things for that matter?! I mean, who picks up a rock-looking thing, pries it open, sees a slimy glob and says, "Yum! Let's eat!" Okay, maybe it was out of desperation or perhaps they saw an otter eating one. But, raspberries on a thorny bush look far more appetizing than a rubbery blob inside a seashell.
When it comes to food I am not bold. I do not eat oysters, raw or cooked! I just can't. There are, in fact, many foods I just can't seem to stomach, for various reasons: smell, texture, taste, and how it makes me feel. I know, within minutes, if something I ate will make me sick. My body reacts very quickly to things it doesn't like! Over the years I have learned to notice this with my nose before actually eating it, to avoid complications later. I don't consider myself a picky eater, but I have to admit to having a more delicate constitution. That does not stop me, however, from trying new dishes or eating local favorites. While on a tropical island I always eat seafood, I just opt for dishes prepared without mushrooms, green pepper and loads of garlic (all things that make me ill). When in Colorado I ate like a cowboy, though I didn't go for the Bison unmentionables when a plate was ordered to share at the table!
When it comes to traveling, I envy people who eagerly tuck into the local fare without any hesitation. To be able to experience a place or a culture through it's favorite foods is one of the best ways to imerse yourself! In a few days my son will board a plane to France to visit, explore, experience and taste the history and culture of that country. I have always been careful to expose and encourage my children to try new things, including food. They eat things I don't, can handle far spicier foods, and will try most things. Although my son likes to separate his food (think divided plate) and eat one thing at a time, I hope his time in France will include savoring that country's delicious gastronomic offerings. I have no doubt he will devour crepes and croissants (family favorites), but hopefully he'll get to also enjoy a few authentic French meals.
I will be off on an adventure, too this summer! My husband and I will be spending a few days in San Francisco to celebrate a milestone birthday! Having perused the tour book and the Internet, I think I'll have a more difficult time with the food in SanFran, than my son will in France! I can't pronounce the names of many of the restaurants on the list of "Top 100 Place to Eat", which can't be good, with food I've never heard of and some I have and know I can't eat! But, this will not deter me. I have no doubt we will find scrumptious food and fabulous dining. There seems to be hundreds of restaurants in and around the city; it's really quite overwhelming. I don't need anything fancy or touristy or especially elegant (though one fancy dinner might be nice). I prefer to move and pick when I'm traveling: a taste of this and a taste of that, leaving room to sample a wide variety of food, while not be committed to any one thing. I enjoy bringing home from my travels a new recipe, whether inspired by the place I'm visiting or an actual recipe. I can't wait to see what inspiration San Francisco holds for our family's dinner table!
When you travel, how do eat? Do you look for the closest American restaurants abroad? Do you stick to what you know (in other parts of this continent)? Do you ask where the locals eat? Do you dig in to dishes you have no idea what they are but have been assured they are authentic and delicious? Do you eat simple or indulge in fancy meals?
On a more personal note: if you've been to San Francisco, where should we eat? In such a foodie city, the possibilities are endless and we'd love personal, first-hand-experience recommendations!
I hope this summer holds some food adventures for you. Even if you can't travel, you can "visit" a place through authentic meals. Maybe you can try a new local restaurant specializing in another country's food. Perhaps a "world food" day once a week, where you prepare authentic foreign dishes for your family.
When you can't get out and explore the world, bring the world to your kitchen!!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Did you ever wonder who decided to first eat an oyster, or clam or fish, or many things for that matter?! I mean, who picks up a rock-looking thing, pries it open, sees a slimy glob and says, "Yum! Let's eat!" Okay, maybe it was out of desperation or perhaps they saw an otter eating one. But, raspberries on a thorny bush look far more appetizing than a rubbery blob inside a seashell.
When it comes to food I am not bold. I do not eat oysters, raw or cooked! I just can't. There are, in fact, many foods I just can't seem to stomach, for various reasons: smell, texture, taste, and how it makes me feel. I know, within minutes, if something I ate will make me sick. My body reacts very quickly to things it doesn't like! Over the years I have learned to notice this with my nose before actually eating it, to avoid complications later. I don't consider myself a picky eater, but I have to admit to having a more delicate constitution. That does not stop me, however, from trying new dishes or eating local favorites. While on a tropical island I always eat seafood, I just opt for dishes prepared without mushrooms, green pepper and loads of garlic (all things that make me ill). When in Colorado I ate like a cowboy, though I didn't go for the Bison unmentionables when a plate was ordered to share at the table!
When it comes to traveling, I envy people who eagerly tuck into the local fare without any hesitation. To be able to experience a place or a culture through it's favorite foods is one of the best ways to imerse yourself! In a few days my son will board a plane to France to visit, explore, experience and taste the history and culture of that country. I have always been careful to expose and encourage my children to try new things, including food. They eat things I don't, can handle far spicier foods, and will try most things. Although my son likes to separate his food (think divided plate) and eat one thing at a time, I hope his time in France will include savoring that country's delicious gastronomic offerings. I have no doubt he will devour crepes and croissants (family favorites), but hopefully he'll get to also enjoy a few authentic French meals.
I will be off on an adventure, too this summer! My husband and I will be spending a few days in San Francisco to celebrate a milestone birthday! Having perused the tour book and the Internet, I think I'll have a more difficult time with the food in SanFran, than my son will in France! I can't pronounce the names of many of the restaurants on the list of "Top 100 Place to Eat", which can't be good, with food I've never heard of and some I have and know I can't eat! But, this will not deter me. I have no doubt we will find scrumptious food and fabulous dining. There seems to be hundreds of restaurants in and around the city; it's really quite overwhelming. I don't need anything fancy or touristy or especially elegant (though one fancy dinner might be nice). I prefer to move and pick when I'm traveling: a taste of this and a taste of that, leaving room to sample a wide variety of food, while not be committed to any one thing. I enjoy bringing home from my travels a new recipe, whether inspired by the place I'm visiting or an actual recipe. I can't wait to see what inspiration San Francisco holds for our family's dinner table!
When you travel, how do eat? Do you look for the closest American restaurants abroad? Do you stick to what you know (in other parts of this continent)? Do you ask where the locals eat? Do you dig in to dishes you have no idea what they are but have been assured they are authentic and delicious? Do you eat simple or indulge in fancy meals?
On a more personal note: if you've been to San Francisco, where should we eat? In such a foodie city, the possibilities are endless and we'd love personal, first-hand-experience recommendations!
I hope this summer holds some food adventures for you. Even if you can't travel, you can "visit" a place through authentic meals. Maybe you can try a new local restaurant specializing in another country's food. Perhaps a "world food" day once a week, where you prepare authentic foreign dishes for your family.
When you can't get out and explore the world, bring the world to your kitchen!!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Wednesday, July 1, 2015
ReAwakenings 1 Peter 3
"Finally, all of you should be of one mind, full of sympathy toward each other, loving one another with tender hearts and humble minds. Don't repay evil for evil. Don't retaliate when people say unkind things about you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God wants you to do, and he will bless you for it." 1 Peter 3: 8-9.
Oh what a glorious place this would be if we all followed Peter's advice (above)! Read it again. Let it sink in.
Welcome! I am so glad you are here. I hope you are staying with the reading plan and are reading, pondering, and S.O.A.K.-ing your week in the Word of God. As a group, we are up to 1 Peter 3, but if you need to catch-up, that's okay. Grab a few quite moments to spend with your Lord today, before the festivities of the holiday weekend kick off!
There's a ton of good stuff in 1 Peter 3! However, the first seven verses are a bit of a 'pill' for me - hard to swallow! I get it and the notes in my study Bible explain these verses in such a way that help me to process the notion of "submission" and "weaker sex". But it's still "nails-on-a-chalkboard" for me to read those words. I think it's because they have often been used to the detriment of women; to justify men's 'superiority' over women and to keep women from being equals to men in all aspects of life. There is Scripture and examples of women throughout the Old and New Testaments that speak to the equality and strength of women. When I read the first 7 verses, I did it with gritted teeth and tried to silence the screaming feminist in my head :) If you don't have a Study Bible that can better explain what Peter is trying to say, let me know in the comments. I'll be happy to share the notes I have, but I really want to talk about verses 8 & 9!
With all the latest social unrest, wouldn't it be so wonderful if these verses could become the new mantra for America! It seems lately there is so much stirring of the pot of hatred that it's hard to see a bright future. The sad part is that much of the stirring is done by religious leaders and 'Christians' quoting the Bible. Why can't they quote this!? WHY CAN'T THEY QUOTE THIS!!!
I'm a bit of a romantic mixed with a realist, so I accept that
1) there is evil in the world
2) we all have bad days
3) we're not perfect.
Even the best intentioned person is going to say something against someone at some point; they will lose their temper, be in a bad mood or just totally lose it on some one! It's what happens after that, that makes all the difference. How do we respond, whether we are the one being negative or the recipient? If we could pause and bring to mind Peter's words to "... pay them back with a blessing." perhaps the Evening News would be filled with stories of hope & healing rather than bitterness, accusations, and strife.
Evil, circulating in society as discrimination, superiority, entitlement, vengeance, payback, retaliation, human justice, and all manner of negativity, fan the flames of hatred. God calls us to smother that fire with the cooling waters of Love, Grace, and Blessings.
When you have the opportunity to teach the next generation and influence your peers and children of all ages, teach them this: "Finally, all of you should be of one mind, full of sympathy toward each other, loving one another with tender hearts and humble minds. Don't repay evil for evil. Don't retaliate when people say unkind things about you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God wants you to do, and he will bless you for it." 1 Peter 3: 8-9. If the world could embrace this - what a wonderful place it would be!
I'd love to read what this week's Scripture means to you. Leave a few thoughts in the Comments.
Be a blessing in the world today!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Oh what a glorious place this would be if we all followed Peter's advice (above)! Read it again. Let it sink in.
Welcome! I am so glad you are here. I hope you are staying with the reading plan and are reading, pondering, and S.O.A.K.-ing your week in the Word of God. As a group, we are up to 1 Peter 3, but if you need to catch-up, that's okay. Grab a few quite moments to spend with your Lord today, before the festivities of the holiday weekend kick off!
There's a ton of good stuff in 1 Peter 3! However, the first seven verses are a bit of a 'pill' for me - hard to swallow! I get it and the notes in my study Bible explain these verses in such a way that help me to process the notion of "submission" and "weaker sex". But it's still "nails-on-a-chalkboard" for me to read those words. I think it's because they have often been used to the detriment of women; to justify men's 'superiority' over women and to keep women from being equals to men in all aspects of life. There is Scripture and examples of women throughout the Old and New Testaments that speak to the equality and strength of women. When I read the first 7 verses, I did it with gritted teeth and tried to silence the screaming feminist in my head :) If you don't have a Study Bible that can better explain what Peter is trying to say, let me know in the comments. I'll be happy to share the notes I have, but I really want to talk about verses 8 & 9!
With all the latest social unrest, wouldn't it be so wonderful if these verses could become the new mantra for America! It seems lately there is so much stirring of the pot of hatred that it's hard to see a bright future. The sad part is that much of the stirring is done by religious leaders and 'Christians' quoting the Bible. Why can't they quote this!? WHY CAN'T THEY QUOTE THIS!!!
I'm a bit of a romantic mixed with a realist, so I accept that
1) there is evil in the world
2) we all have bad days
3) we're not perfect.
Even the best intentioned person is going to say something against someone at some point; they will lose their temper, be in a bad mood or just totally lose it on some one! It's what happens after that, that makes all the difference. How do we respond, whether we are the one being negative or the recipient? If we could pause and bring to mind Peter's words to "... pay them back with a blessing." perhaps the Evening News would be filled with stories of hope & healing rather than bitterness, accusations, and strife.
Evil, circulating in society as discrimination, superiority, entitlement, vengeance, payback, retaliation, human justice, and all manner of negativity, fan the flames of hatred. God calls us to smother that fire with the cooling waters of Love, Grace, and Blessings.
When you have the opportunity to teach the next generation and influence your peers and children of all ages, teach them this: "Finally, all of you should be of one mind, full of sympathy toward each other, loving one another with tender hearts and humble minds. Don't repay evil for evil. Don't retaliate when people say unkind things about you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God wants you to do, and he will bless you for it." 1 Peter 3: 8-9. If the world could embrace this - what a wonderful place it would be!
I'd love to read what this week's Scripture means to you. Leave a few thoughts in the Comments.
Be a blessing in the world today!
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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