I Am so you don't have to be online bible study.
Lesson six West Side of the Wilderness
Key Scriptures
Exodus 3:1-9
Acts 7:30-35
There is so much good in this lesson where to start?
I love when Lisa said " Girls, our God is one of present-tense." Wow, at times I feel like I am still trying to wrap my brain around that statement.
I was taught once that one of the reasons that God commanded that Moses take his sandals off was because the sandal was made of leather which is flesh, and that God wanted Moses to step out of the flesh and into the spirit to worship and be with God, which is basically what God tells us today.
The statement that Lisa made "God allows dialogue but never disagreement where His will is concerned." Is right smack in the middle of where I am. I am in disagreement with God about His Will, I think that I can hang on to the old and grasp the new all with the same hand, and this is not doable. To grab hold of God you have to have empty hands, and if you are hanging on...well, Beth Moore taught once about the prodigal son, and used the scripture stating that all the plantings that are not of the Lord will be pulled up by the root. I am hanging on to my root, rotten ugly thing that it is, it's comfortable, familiar, and known. Where God is calling me is unknown, not familiar, and not comfortable at first. I have to learn to trust God more than I trust myself, and the world. And the sad thing is God has never ever done anything to cause me not to trust Him. The lies of the enemy are hard at work.
Whenever I see some one in the Bible say "Here I am" I always think of young Samuel, and him hearing God calling him three times, and poor old Eli knowing that God was calling Samuel instead of him. This was a young man that "The Word of the Lord" had not yet been revealed to I Samuel 3:7.
Moses and Samuel are very alike in that they both were called of God for a reason and a season.
Then Lisa wrote "God was extending an invitation to start over, be clean, and to be used of Him to work His wonders and spread His fame. It was time for Moses to lay aside the prince and the shepherd as well as any other pre-conceived idea of how he would bring about Israel's rescue and become the God-defined deliverer he was born to be."
How simple that this is what God wants to do with me to start over, but I keep bringing the luggage. I am learning when you travel with God you have to travel light.
Discussion Questions.
1. How current is your God? Is he up to date on all your issues or do you have old hurts you still hold behind your back?
Yes I do have old hurts that I am hiding behind my back. Sad thing is just like a kid caught with something he/she is not suppose to have, I think that God can't see it.
2. Has the enemy ever told you there are situations that are 'old news' that are better left stuffed down? Or perhaps because they were so long ago they can't possibly be affecting you now?
Yep, and I just wrote about one of them a couple of lessons ago.
3. In the matter of established authority, does God truly reign in your life? Where are you when He calls your name?
God is not in control of my life. He will not let me see the map or the plan! I do not do well on the need to know basis. I need to know all the steps and plans so I can put my stamp of approval on it, then mess it up and blame it on God like Adam tried to.
4. Do you ever feel God has forgotten you in your 'west side of the wilderness'?
Oh, no God has not forgotten me, I have forgotten him. I wandered over here all by myself.
5. Have you ever experienced a time of cleansing where God has illuminated and rejuvenated you? If not, do you find you are in need of this now?
Yes, I am in need of a cleansing and rejuvenation. One day I am going to get brave enough to stand up and say Do me Lord just start where ever You want and redo, rearrange, and rewire me.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
He's back in Babies Arms
Sorry Siestas forgot the really IMPORTANT stuff.
SON IN LAW IS HOME SAFE AND SOUND!!!!!
He is back in babies arms as of 5:30pm this afternoon. Thank you so much for your prayers for his safe return. He flew in from El Paso today. All of him is accounted for.
Please be praying that his transition from military living to civilian living will be smooth. And that my daughter and their children will adapt and settle in quickly.
God is good all the time.
Sallye
SON IN LAW IS HOME SAFE AND SOUND!!!!!
He is back in babies arms as of 5:30pm this afternoon. Thank you so much for your prayers for his safe return. He flew in from El Paso today. All of him is accounted for.
Please be praying that his transition from military living to civilian living will be smooth. And that my daughter and their children will adapt and settle in quickly.
God is good all the time.
Sallye
I have to rejoice and say thank you!!!
Siestas Thank you, Thank you for the prayer that you have lifted to heaven on mine and Rusty's behalf!!
Let me tell you what a difference it has made. Rusty did laundry yesterday, and all of the undies came out pink. Now if this had been prior to Saturday and Sunday, I would have thrown a fit and ask all sorts of stupid questions and gripped about the wasted time and money to redo. Instead, we just kind of laughed, and when Rusty ask if we could bleach them I said sure and did it myself. Like I told Michelle earlier. I don't think the whites have been this white in a long time.
It is because of your prayers, Rusty's forgiveness, and my repentance that I was able to kick the old and walk in the new.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
In Him
Rusty and Sallye
Let me tell you what a difference it has made. Rusty did laundry yesterday, and all of the undies came out pink. Now if this had been prior to Saturday and Sunday, I would have thrown a fit and ask all sorts of stupid questions and gripped about the wasted time and money to redo. Instead, we just kind of laughed, and when Rusty ask if we could bleach them I said sure and did it myself. Like I told Michelle earlier. I don't think the whites have been this white in a long time.
It is because of your prayers, Rusty's forgiveness, and my repentance that I was able to kick the old and walk in the new.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
In Him
Rusty and Sallye
Monday, May 26, 2008
I AM so you don't have to be Lesson 5
Chapter Two
I AM - Your Sufficiency
Lesson Five"I Was"Key Passages:
Exodus 2
Hebrews 11
Acts 7
"And Moses was content to dwell with the man: and he gave Moses Zipporah his daughter. And she bare him a son, and he called his name Gershom: for he said, I have been a stranger in a strange land."
Exodus 2: 21-22
There is a note in one of my Bibles that says Moses lived in disappointment for 40 years. Angie and I were discussing this earlier, and like her I do not want to live in Midian or disappointment for forty years...I would be nearly ninety...
God zeroed me in on the word ark in Exdous 2:3. Moses' mother placed Moses in an Ark to protect him while he floated on the Nile. You know she was praying every step of the way and it was only by faith that she was able to trust him to God and do this. Basically this was an ark of covenant between Moses' mother and God.
Discussion Questions:
1. Have you ever found yourself 'in faith' yet bewildered or demoralized?
Yes, today would be a good example.
2. Do you consider yourself content? Would you describe it as Decidedly Content or Dreamily Content?
Yes, I am Decidedly Content. But this is also a training ground. Like Paul I have to learn to be content in whatever state that I am in. I have to be able to say God is enough before I can move out of Decidedly Content to Godly Content. And that is decidedly where I want to live.
3. If you are not content, are there circumstances that keep you from this feeling?
Yes to both. Like I said earlier, I am the stumbling block that is keeping me from being content.
4. Have you ever found yourself in a place where you looked back on a period of your Christian walk and believed a great opportunity passed you by?
Yes, during a period I walked with God closely, He had control of everything. I would stand in my closet and so Okay God what am I going to wear today. Pride of who and where I was reared it's ugly head and I let it steal it all.
5. Do you ever believe your faith was stronger in an earlier time in your Christianity and find yourself floundering now?
Yes, I know it was, but I am slowing but surely getting it back. Praise God that one of His promises is that whatever the thief steals when it is found out he has to return it 7 times.
6. Can you recognize that this season may be one of great preparation instead of a period of "I Was"?
Yes. I look at Moses and he got in a hurry, just cause he knew who he was he thought everyone else should know who he was. I get in trouble with the same thing. I think that just because I know I am a child of God, even when my actions don't show it, that everyone else should too. This is an area that God is dealing with in me. I forget that I am all the Bible that some people may ever read, and that if I am to be Christ like it means they are suppose to see Christ in me 24/7 which is so not happening, even in my sin.
Like I told Lisa in a comment you can get off my toes anytime. But thank God she is the willing instrument of God.
Sallye
I AM - Your Sufficiency
Lesson Five"I Was"Key Passages:
Exodus 2
Hebrews 11
Acts 7
"And Moses was content to dwell with the man: and he gave Moses Zipporah his daughter. And she bare him a son, and he called his name Gershom: for he said, I have been a stranger in a strange land."
Exodus 2: 21-22
There is a note in one of my Bibles that says Moses lived in disappointment for 40 years. Angie and I were discussing this earlier, and like her I do not want to live in Midian or disappointment for forty years...I would be nearly ninety...
God zeroed me in on the word ark in Exdous 2:3. Moses' mother placed Moses in an Ark to protect him while he floated on the Nile. You know she was praying every step of the way and it was only by faith that she was able to trust him to God and do this. Basically this was an ark of covenant between Moses' mother and God.
Discussion Questions:
1. Have you ever found yourself 'in faith' yet bewildered or demoralized?
Yes, today would be a good example.
2. Do you consider yourself content? Would you describe it as Decidedly Content or Dreamily Content?
Yes, I am Decidedly Content. But this is also a training ground. Like Paul I have to learn to be content in whatever state that I am in. I have to be able to say God is enough before I can move out of Decidedly Content to Godly Content. And that is decidedly where I want to live.
3. If you are not content, are there circumstances that keep you from this feeling?
Yes to both. Like I said earlier, I am the stumbling block that is keeping me from being content.
4. Have you ever found yourself in a place where you looked back on a period of your Christian walk and believed a great opportunity passed you by?
Yes, during a period I walked with God closely, He had control of everything. I would stand in my closet and so Okay God what am I going to wear today. Pride of who and where I was reared it's ugly head and I let it steal it all.
5. Do you ever believe your faith was stronger in an earlier time in your Christianity and find yourself floundering now?
Yes, I know it was, but I am slowing but surely getting it back. Praise God that one of His promises is that whatever the thief steals when it is found out he has to return it 7 times.
6. Can you recognize that this season may be one of great preparation instead of a period of "I Was"?
Yes. I look at Moses and he got in a hurry, just cause he knew who he was he thought everyone else should know who he was. I get in trouble with the same thing. I think that just because I know I am a child of God, even when my actions don't show it, that everyone else should too. This is an area that God is dealing with in me. I forget that I am all the Bible that some people may ever read, and that if I am to be Christ like it means they are suppose to see Christ in me 24/7 which is so not happening, even in my sin.
Like I told Lisa in a comment you can get off my toes anytime. But thank God she is the willing instrument of God.
Sallye
Saturday, May 24, 2008
I AM so you don't have to be Lesson 4 prt 2
I AM so you don't have to be Lesson 4 prt 2
Background Reading:
Exodus 2:11-15
Acts 7:21-29
Hebrews 11:23-27
Key Verse:
"This Moses whom they disowned saying, 'Who made you a ruler and a judge?' is the one whom God sent to be both a ruler and a deliverer with the help of the angel who appeared to him in the thorn bush." Acts 7:35 NASB
Discussion Questions:
1. I am going to present to you a little acrostic to begin our discussion today. What is your latest NLIP? (Not Like I Planned?)
2. How did you react to your NLIP? Are you still upset about it? Happy about it? Baffled by it? Explain.
3. Have you ever attempted to step into an area of ministry and found your desire rejected? Did this cause you to question God and yourself? Perhaps distrust what you perceived to be your calling?
4. Do you harbor any bitterness towards any individual or situation which you believe waylaid your best laid plans?
5. Have you had a life experience or trial that left you with a shaken faith because it ended in an NLIP? Please share if you feel free.
5. Based on Moses' response of faith to his own rejection, how will you re-evaluate your own experiences or look at future ones differently if a NLIP presents itself?
I am going to answer these all as one and give a Sallye's history lesson at the same time.
Rusty and I have been in and out of church since I was saved in Oct 1982. Anyway we had begun in 2002 or so going to church and getting involved. Rusty was playing in the praise band, and I was greeting, ss class prayer leader, did my share of nursery duty, and prayer room during the service. Best friend Dona, who also attended this church and I both were seeing the people getting saved, but there was no disciple program. So we spoke to the assoc pastor, and he said find a program, get it to him to approve, find pupils and get after it. I was lead by God (this is a whole nother story) to NAV 2:7. We got it all together, found the pupils, got the room, and told assoc pastor we were ready to go. His response was ok find a man to teach it. You talk about shocked, surprised and disappointed..Then in an EE (evangelism explosion) class, Sallye made the mistake of saying she wasn't a denomination, that she was a Christian. Same associate pastor heard this statement, and next thing I know, all of my area's of service have been taken from me, I was not allowed to graduate with the EE class, and was told I was being given time to re-evaluate my church affiliation. Other words go away we don't want you anymore. I am a pot stirrer, and the pot at this church was already bubbling and I would have loved to have stirred..Praise God, Rusty, Brad, and Dona sat on me until the anger and hurt subsided.
So today I get way ugly with Rusty, and guess what this rears it's ugly head again to remind me that I have not dealt with any of it. Oh, I have said the words I forgive and let go, but when I see the associate pastor in public and the only thing I want to do is either spit in his eye or slap him in the face...
I don't know how many of you have seen the old bumper sticker for the NRA that said "You will get my gun when you pry it from my cold dead fingers"
That's how I feel about this I don't now how to let go of it. It's not the root of the uncontrolled anger, but a feeder.
This is me the good the bad and the ugly. I said when I started this that I would be real and this is as real as it gets.
Sallye
Background Reading:
Exodus 2:11-15
Acts 7:21-29
Hebrews 11:23-27
Key Verse:
"This Moses whom they disowned saying, 'Who made you a ruler and a judge?' is the one whom God sent to be both a ruler and a deliverer with the help of the angel who appeared to him in the thorn bush." Acts 7:35 NASB
Discussion Questions:
1. I am going to present to you a little acrostic to begin our discussion today. What is your latest NLIP? (Not Like I Planned?)
2. How did you react to your NLIP? Are you still upset about it? Happy about it? Baffled by it? Explain.
3. Have you ever attempted to step into an area of ministry and found your desire rejected? Did this cause you to question God and yourself? Perhaps distrust what you perceived to be your calling?
4. Do you harbor any bitterness towards any individual or situation which you believe waylaid your best laid plans?
5. Have you had a life experience or trial that left you with a shaken faith because it ended in an NLIP? Please share if you feel free.
5. Based on Moses' response of faith to his own rejection, how will you re-evaluate your own experiences or look at future ones differently if a NLIP presents itself?
I am going to answer these all as one and give a Sallye's history lesson at the same time.
Rusty and I have been in and out of church since I was saved in Oct 1982. Anyway we had begun in 2002 or so going to church and getting involved. Rusty was playing in the praise band, and I was greeting, ss class prayer leader, did my share of nursery duty, and prayer room during the service. Best friend Dona, who also attended this church and I both were seeing the people getting saved, but there was no disciple program. So we spoke to the assoc pastor, and he said find a program, get it to him to approve, find pupils and get after it. I was lead by God (this is a whole nother story) to NAV 2:7. We got it all together, found the pupils, got the room, and told assoc pastor we were ready to go. His response was ok find a man to teach it. You talk about shocked, surprised and disappointed..Then in an EE (evangelism explosion) class, Sallye made the mistake of saying she wasn't a denomination, that she was a Christian. Same associate pastor heard this statement, and next thing I know, all of my area's of service have been taken from me, I was not allowed to graduate with the EE class, and was told I was being given time to re-evaluate my church affiliation. Other words go away we don't want you anymore. I am a pot stirrer, and the pot at this church was already bubbling and I would have loved to have stirred..Praise God, Rusty, Brad, and Dona sat on me until the anger and hurt subsided.
So today I get way ugly with Rusty, and guess what this rears it's ugly head again to remind me that I have not dealt with any of it. Oh, I have said the words I forgive and let go, but when I see the associate pastor in public and the only thing I want to do is either spit in his eye or slap him in the face...
I don't know how many of you have seen the old bumper sticker for the NRA that said "You will get my gun when you pry it from my cold dead fingers"
That's how I feel about this I don't now how to let go of it. It's not the root of the uncontrolled anger, but a feeder.
This is me the good the bad and the ugly. I said when I started this that I would be real and this is as real as it gets.
Sallye
Well this is not pretty
Where to begin? Today was the first day of the part time job that I have taken. It went pretty good and I am very excited to be doing it. So if ya'll are ever in Wal Mart and see my name tag say hi.
That is the good part.
The bad part is very very bad, and I am ashamed to admit it, but I am going to follow scripture and confess my sins to one another.
Long story short. Husband Rusty had an accident today and cut his arm. Praise God he is fine LVN daughter looked at it cleaned it up real good and said to go to Dr on Tuesday and get tetanus shot, that it did not need any stitches, but with Rusty's diabetes would need to watch it.
Now miss me comes totally unglued over this whole issue and this is where the big time major sin comes in. I cussed, yelled, and struck my husband. I am angry at him for several reasons, the biggest one being that I am having to take a second job while he has not one. I thought that I had dealt with this...well duh looks like not so. God reminded me this morning, that we were very blessed that Rusty was able to work for 7 years outside the home. He is legally blind, can not obtain an TX DL, is not eligible for any type of Government assistance. There is a crack that he falls in. But a supervisor at Sitel was willing to take a chance on Rusty and hired him to do building maintenance for 7 years till they did away with his job. So now we just need to find someone that is willing to take a chance on him again. All of this is bothering him big time. On top of that my sister calls and tells me I need to get an attorney so that Rusty can not take advantage of me. Plus 2 of 3 kids are not happy over this either. So not only am I mad a Rusty, I have to protect him for everyone else at the same time. God I am so tired of this. So now as Joyce Meyer would say we have wounding on top of wounding. Uncontrolled anger is a very big issue with me and it do get ugly. We both have our feelings hanging out and you touch you get bit.
So please be praying for us. But mostly please be praying that Rusty will be able to forgive me.
Sallye
That is the good part.
The bad part is very very bad, and I am ashamed to admit it, but I am going to follow scripture and confess my sins to one another.
Long story short. Husband Rusty had an accident today and cut his arm. Praise God he is fine LVN daughter looked at it cleaned it up real good and said to go to Dr on Tuesday and get tetanus shot, that it did not need any stitches, but with Rusty's diabetes would need to watch it.
Now miss me comes totally unglued over this whole issue and this is where the big time major sin comes in. I cussed, yelled, and struck my husband. I am angry at him for several reasons, the biggest one being that I am having to take a second job while he has not one. I thought that I had dealt with this...well duh looks like not so. God reminded me this morning, that we were very blessed that Rusty was able to work for 7 years outside the home. He is legally blind, can not obtain an TX DL, is not eligible for any type of Government assistance. There is a crack that he falls in. But a supervisor at Sitel was willing to take a chance on Rusty and hired him to do building maintenance for 7 years till they did away with his job. So now we just need to find someone that is willing to take a chance on him again. All of this is bothering him big time. On top of that my sister calls and tells me I need to get an attorney so that Rusty can not take advantage of me. Plus 2 of 3 kids are not happy over this either. So not only am I mad a Rusty, I have to protect him for everyone else at the same time. God I am so tired of this. So now as Joyce Meyer would say we have wounding on top of wounding. Uncontrolled anger is a very big issue with me and it do get ugly. We both have our feelings hanging out and you touch you get bit.
So please be praying for us. But mostly please be praying that Rusty will be able to forgive me.
Sallye
Friday, May 23, 2008
Who are our enemies?
Ok, God will not leave me alone about this so I am going to get it written down.
Quiet time this morning scripture was Psalms 59:16-17 NKJV But I will sing of Your power; Yes, I will sing aloud of Your mercy in the morning; For you have been my defense And refuge in the day of my trouble. 17 To You, O my Strength I will sing praises; For God is my defense. My God of Mercy.
Me being me had to read the whole chapter and the following verse just kind of reached out and grabbed me. 10 My God of mercy shall come to meet me; God shall let me see my desire on my enemies.
Who are my enemies and what is my desire for them?
My enemies should be anyone that is not in a relationship with God. And you know that sounds so harsh, but it is so true. Anyone that is not working with or for God is working against Him.
So what is my desire for them? Well...in the flesh if it is someone that has hurt me, sic 'em God hurt them like they have hurt me. But when I set the flesh aside and look at it in the spirit, my desire should be that they come into a personal relationship with God through Christ Jesus. That God set them free so that they can sing the verses at the end of the chapter. My friend Brad taught me this and it is a lesson that I need to be reminded of on a daily basis.
Thank you Father.
Sallye
Quiet time this morning scripture was Psalms 59:16-17 NKJV But I will sing of Your power; Yes, I will sing aloud of Your mercy in the morning; For you have been my defense And refuge in the day of my trouble. 17 To You, O my Strength I will sing praises; For God is my defense. My God of Mercy.
Me being me had to read the whole chapter and the following verse just kind of reached out and grabbed me. 10 My God of mercy shall come to meet me; God shall let me see my desire on my enemies.
Who are my enemies and what is my desire for them?
My enemies should be anyone that is not in a relationship with God. And you know that sounds so harsh, but it is so true. Anyone that is not working with or for God is working against Him.
So what is my desire for them? Well...in the flesh if it is someone that has hurt me, sic 'em God hurt them like they have hurt me. But when I set the flesh aside and look at it in the spirit, my desire should be that they come into a personal relationship with God through Christ Jesus. That God set them free so that they can sing the verses at the end of the chapter. My friend Brad taught me this and it is a lesson that I need to be reminded of on a daily basis.
Thank you Father.
Sallye
Thursday, May 22, 2008
I AM so you don't have to be Lesson 3 prt 1
'I AM' Study Round Two
I AM - So You Don't Have To Be
Blog Bible Study Lesson Three
'When Life Doesn't Work Out Like You Planned'
Part 1
Background Reading:Exodus Chapter 2
Acts 7:21-28
Hebrews 11:23-29 Focal Verses: Exodus 2:11-2:12
"One day, after Moses had grown up, he went out to where his own people were and watched them at their hard labor. He saw an Egyptian beating a Hebrew, one of his own people. Glancing this way and that and seeing no one, he killed the Egyptian and hid him in the sand."
Discussion Questions:
1. It was stated in the Lesson that God has made you "once, twice, three times a lady." Where are you in this progression? Obviously we have all been physically born, but are you 'twice a lady'? Have you been born again spiritually? This may be a private matter you'd like to discuss confidentially. If so, email me. If you have already received this gift, write a brief prayer of thanksgiving or testimony.
I was ask one time to write my testimony, and it would not come together, I finally told God, okay You are going to have to write this, and He told me "You are the testimony. You are a walking talking testimony to My grace and loving kindness." I have never forgotten this and is where I point to.
2. Are you three times a lady? Has God given you a stirring deep within your Spirit to be a 'deliverer'? Do you have a desire or are you already meeting a need in the life of the church, a particular ministry (such as jail ministry, food ministry, etc.) or perhaps individuals who share common issues?
No deep stirrings in my Spirit, just God trying to teach me to lean on Him. We've been around this mountain several times, you would think I would have learned by now, but alas, here I am again. Thank God He never tires of me, and is patiently leading and wooing me out of my shell and into the light. This from someone who would not be considered shy or withdrawn, but rather loud and in your face..so go figure. But I am learning I am shy and withdrawn when it comes to trusting and leaning on Him even though I have seen miracle after miracle in mine and my families life. Like I told Michelle, sometimes it is just so much easier to believe the bad stuff the enemy is pumping out, than it is to believe God and His Word.
3. Do you ever get tired of waiting for that opportunity to do something
worthwhile for God? Do you ever feel God is using someone else instead of you?
Yes I do, and the enemy uses that to distract and draw me away from where God is trying to move me and grow me so that He can use me. Yes and no I see the ministry that God is giving someone else and I get jealous and say why not me..but as far as using someone else instead of me I don't think so.
4. What do you consider 'worthwhile ministry'? Are you like me and sometimes find yourself mistakenly thinking it has to be Big to be Important?
Anything that meets the needs of the church body and is legal.
NO..cleaning the church is just as important as the pastor standing in the pulpit, and it's probably because of the person cleaning and praying over the toilet, that the pastor is able to stand and proclaim the Word of God so boldly.
5. Have you ever taken a spiritual gifts test? If yes, what are yours? If no, here's a good one from Ephesians 4 Ministry. Will you take it and come back with a response? Knowing some of you like I already do, I can almost pick out what your gift is before you say it. I can't wait to see if I'm right!
The Ephesian 4 Ministry test says that I am a Pastor/Shepherd, Evangelism, and administration.
I called my friend Dona and ask her if she wanted a laugh and told her. She was not surprised. A friend at the gym the other day said that I had the gift of giving. I love to serve, if we are at a function with food I will be the one taking plates that are finished or refilling your drink. I do take salvation very serious, and believe that when someone makes a profession of faith, that there should be a bible and a sponsor placed in their hands. If you are telling someone that their reality has been changed and then just smile and say good luck..well let me say I don't want to answer to God for the baby that wandered off and got lost because no one was watching. People need to be planted and taught, and if the church that the got saved in is not the church for them, then take their hand and find them one!!!. Sorry I will get off my soap box.
So maybe I am a evangelising pastor/shepherd that likes to serve after all...who would have thunk it.
I AM - So You Don't Have To Be
Blog Bible Study Lesson Three
'When Life Doesn't Work Out Like You Planned'
Part 1
Background Reading:Exodus Chapter 2
Acts 7:21-28
Hebrews 11:23-29 Focal Verses: Exodus 2:11-2:12
"One day, after Moses had grown up, he went out to where his own people were and watched them at their hard labor. He saw an Egyptian beating a Hebrew, one of his own people. Glancing this way and that and seeing no one, he killed the Egyptian and hid him in the sand."
Discussion Questions:
1. It was stated in the Lesson that God has made you "once, twice, three times a lady." Where are you in this progression? Obviously we have all been physically born, but are you 'twice a lady'? Have you been born again spiritually? This may be a private matter you'd like to discuss confidentially. If so, email me. If you have already received this gift, write a brief prayer of thanksgiving or testimony.
I was ask one time to write my testimony, and it would not come together, I finally told God, okay You are going to have to write this, and He told me "You are the testimony. You are a walking talking testimony to My grace and loving kindness." I have never forgotten this and is where I point to.
2. Are you three times a lady? Has God given you a stirring deep within your Spirit to be a 'deliverer'? Do you have a desire or are you already meeting a need in the life of the church, a particular ministry (such as jail ministry, food ministry, etc.) or perhaps individuals who share common issues?
No deep stirrings in my Spirit, just God trying to teach me to lean on Him. We've been around this mountain several times, you would think I would have learned by now, but alas, here I am again. Thank God He never tires of me, and is patiently leading and wooing me out of my shell and into the light. This from someone who would not be considered shy or withdrawn, but rather loud and in your face..so go figure. But I am learning I am shy and withdrawn when it comes to trusting and leaning on Him even though I have seen miracle after miracle in mine and my families life. Like I told Michelle, sometimes it is just so much easier to believe the bad stuff the enemy is pumping out, than it is to believe God and His Word.
3. Do you ever get tired of waiting for that opportunity to do something
worthwhile for God? Do you ever feel God is using someone else instead of you?
Yes I do, and the enemy uses that to distract and draw me away from where God is trying to move me and grow me so that He can use me. Yes and no I see the ministry that God is giving someone else and I get jealous and say why not me..but as far as using someone else instead of me I don't think so.
4. What do you consider 'worthwhile ministry'? Are you like me and sometimes find yourself mistakenly thinking it has to be Big to be Important?
Anything that meets the needs of the church body and is legal.
NO..cleaning the church is just as important as the pastor standing in the pulpit, and it's probably because of the person cleaning and praying over the toilet, that the pastor is able to stand and proclaim the Word of God so boldly.
5. Have you ever taken a spiritual gifts test? If yes, what are yours? If no, here's a good one from Ephesians 4 Ministry. Will you take it and come back with a response? Knowing some of you like I already do, I can almost pick out what your gift is before you say it. I can't wait to see if I'm right!
The Ephesian 4 Ministry test says that I am a Pastor/Shepherd, Evangelism, and administration.
I called my friend Dona and ask her if she wanted a laugh and told her. She was not surprised. A friend at the gym the other day said that I had the gift of giving. I love to serve, if we are at a function with food I will be the one taking plates that are finished or refilling your drink. I do take salvation very serious, and believe that when someone makes a profession of faith, that there should be a bible and a sponsor placed in their hands. If you are telling someone that their reality has been changed and then just smile and say good luck..well let me say I don't want to answer to God for the baby that wandered off and got lost because no one was watching. People need to be planted and taught, and if the church that the got saved in is not the church for them, then take their hand and find them one!!!. Sorry I will get off my soap box.
So maybe I am a evangelising pastor/shepherd that likes to serve after all...who would have thunk it.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
I AM so you don't have to be Lesson 2
'I AM' Study Round Two Lesson Two
Lesson Two - Beautiful To God
Background reading: Exodus 2, Acts 7, Isaiah 53
Focal Verses:
"It was at this time that Moses was born; and he was lovely in the sight of God, and he was nurtured three months in his father's house. Acts 7:20 NASB
"He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him. He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not." Isaiah 53:2-3 NIV
"For the Lord takes pleasure in His people; He will beautify the afflicted ones with salvation." Psalm 149:4
Discussion Questions:
What is your initial response when anyone suggests you are beautiful?
With my current health/teeth issues that is not something I hear very often. People will tell me that I look nice, and stuff like that, and I duck my head say thank you and go about my business. I am usually the one giving the compliments not receiving them.
Do you find you engage in a lot of negative 'self-talk'? How much of your thought life does this form of thinking consume?
Yes, I think that some negative 'self-talk' is normal, but I do fight reverse pride which is closely tied to low self esteem. And I defeat myself more than anyone else. At night a lot when I review my day and see what an over all failure I am.
What is the most radical transformation you've witnessed in an individual after they were born again? It's okay to tell about your own!
I was blessed years ago to attend a concert by Mercy Me, when they did their alter call, there was a young man (could not see him well) that was one of the last to come out of the crowd and approach a pastor. They took all of them into the back of the small arena we were in and ministered to them, then returned them after a couple of songs. I was watching for this young man and he came out with hands lifted, a lighter step, and a renewed heart. He is one of those that I like to say got SAVED. Reminds me of the scripture Luke 7:47 "Therefore I say to you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much. But to whom little is forgiven. the same loves little."
The imagery of being a City Girl has absolutely changed the way I perceive my worth before God. Does it yours? Will you receive this truth and let it boost your righteous confidence?
I know that I am the daughter of the Most High, but sometimes I think it is more head knowledge then heart knowledge and is something that I need to work on. I have always said that when I get to heaven, I am going to have a burger king crown, and an outhouse, and just be so glad to be there. I think I am going to have to rethink this statement.
Lesson Two - Beautiful To God
Background reading: Exodus 2, Acts 7, Isaiah 53
Focal Verses:
"It was at this time that Moses was born; and he was lovely in the sight of God, and he was nurtured three months in his father's house. Acts 7:20 NASB
"He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him. He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not." Isaiah 53:2-3 NIV
"For the Lord takes pleasure in His people; He will beautify the afflicted ones with salvation." Psalm 149:4
Discussion Questions:
What is your initial response when anyone suggests you are beautiful?
With my current health/teeth issues that is not something I hear very often. People will tell me that I look nice, and stuff like that, and I duck my head say thank you and go about my business. I am usually the one giving the compliments not receiving them.
Do you find you engage in a lot of negative 'self-talk'? How much of your thought life does this form of thinking consume?
Yes, I think that some negative 'self-talk' is normal, but I do fight reverse pride which is closely tied to low self esteem. And I defeat myself more than anyone else. At night a lot when I review my day and see what an over all failure I am.
What is the most radical transformation you've witnessed in an individual after they were born again? It's okay to tell about your own!
I was blessed years ago to attend a concert by Mercy Me, when they did their alter call, there was a young man (could not see him well) that was one of the last to come out of the crowd and approach a pastor. They took all of them into the back of the small arena we were in and ministered to them, then returned them after a couple of songs. I was watching for this young man and he came out with hands lifted, a lighter step, and a renewed heart. He is one of those that I like to say got SAVED. Reminds me of the scripture Luke 7:47 "Therefore I say to you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much. But to whom little is forgiven. the same loves little."
The imagery of being a City Girl has absolutely changed the way I perceive my worth before God. Does it yours? Will you receive this truth and let it boost your righteous confidence?
I know that I am the daughter of the Most High, but sometimes I think it is more head knowledge then heart knowledge and is something that I need to work on. I have always said that when I get to heaven, I am going to have a burger king crown, and an outhouse, and just be so glad to be there. I think I am going to have to rethink this statement.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
I AM ..so you don't have to be Online Bible Study by Lisa The Preacher's Wife
I AM - Your Beauty
Just In Time Acts 7:17-20
Here are some Burning Questions I would like for you to consider in response to what God is showing us in these Scriptures:
1. Are there any circumstances or relationships in your life where you can see God has intentionally placed you? What do you perceive may be at stake if you do or do not speak out for Him?
Yes, there are two ladies in my life right now, one purchased fire insurance years ago and is very unhappy with her life. The other is a very active christian lady that is struggling with her marriage. Neither have peace in their lives. Sadly I have not spoken boldy enough to friend A, I have attempted to ease in that direction, but she just doesn't want to hear it so I am going to have to improve my walk and let it be the light.
2. Can you honestly describe yourself as a woman with a 'yes' in her spirit? If not, what keeps you from this?
No, I am what is keeping me from saying yes. I am my own stumbling block.
3. Do you recognize any circumstances in your life which could be described as an 'unrecurring event'? Have you ever said 'no' to one and watched God use someone else instead?
No, I have had my head to the ground and my ears pluged for the past 10 to 15 years.
4. Are you in an emotionally and spiritually healthy place? If yes, how are you using this freedom to minister to others? If no, what do you feel is holding you in your Egypt?
No I am not emotionally and spiritually in a healthy place. I would like to blame everyone around me, but I can't it is all on me and my refusal to bend to God..stiff necked to the max, but willing to change.
I like what Lisa said about not being an accident, but born for a reason, to serve a purpose. Sometimes I get so hung up in me, that I for get I am not the only one on the planet and that the world does not revolve around Sallye.
I have not been to Mt. Nebo in Egypt, but I have swam in the Dead Sea and stared up at the Mount and realized that is where Moses stood and saw all of Israel. WOW is all you can say.
I AM - Your Beauty
Just In Time Acts 7:17-20
Here are some Burning Questions I would like for you to consider in response to what God is showing us in these Scriptures:
1. Are there any circumstances or relationships in your life where you can see God has intentionally placed you? What do you perceive may be at stake if you do or do not speak out for Him?
Yes, there are two ladies in my life right now, one purchased fire insurance years ago and is very unhappy with her life. The other is a very active christian lady that is struggling with her marriage. Neither have peace in their lives. Sadly I have not spoken boldy enough to friend A, I have attempted to ease in that direction, but she just doesn't want to hear it so I am going to have to improve my walk and let it be the light.
2. Can you honestly describe yourself as a woman with a 'yes' in her spirit? If not, what keeps you from this?
No, I am what is keeping me from saying yes. I am my own stumbling block.
3. Do you recognize any circumstances in your life which could be described as an 'unrecurring event'? Have you ever said 'no' to one and watched God use someone else instead?
No, I have had my head to the ground and my ears pluged for the past 10 to 15 years.
4. Are you in an emotionally and spiritually healthy place? If yes, how are you using this freedom to minister to others? If no, what do you feel is holding you in your Egypt?
No I am not emotionally and spiritually in a healthy place. I would like to blame everyone around me, but I can't it is all on me and my refusal to bend to God..stiff necked to the max, but willing to change.
I like what Lisa said about not being an accident, but born for a reason, to serve a purpose. Sometimes I get so hung up in me, that I for get I am not the only one on the planet and that the world does not revolve around Sallye.
I have not been to Mt. Nebo in Egypt, but I have swam in the Dead Sea and stared up at the Mount and realized that is where Moses stood and saw all of Israel. WOW is all you can say.
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Things to Ponder
I was reading the smithscooptexas.blogspot.com sight this morning. Gavin 3 year old with cancer got to go home from the hospital today, second round of Chemo.
Got to thinking about the unfairness that a 3 year old has a scar from ear to ear. No 3 year old should have their head cracked open like an egg! Then God reminded me that my Rusty has baseball scars. Two scars on either side of his head that run from the back of the ear up over the top of the head to the top of his forehead the makes a slight turn back toward the ear. Looks like a baseball. And that these were done at 6 months and 1 year. The top of his spinal cord did not close like it was suppose to causing spinal fluid to flow into the brain, and optic sac at the base of the skull causing damage to the eyes, resulting in him being legally blind. It has taken nearly 40 years and him going bald to make peace with those scars. We have been married for 26 years and I remember when I would push his hair back and he would shake my hand off because he didn't want me to see the scars. Father I don't know where you are going with this, but I wrote it down so you could work with it.
Got to thinking about the unfairness that a 3 year old has a scar from ear to ear. No 3 year old should have their head cracked open like an egg! Then God reminded me that my Rusty has baseball scars. Two scars on either side of his head that run from the back of the ear up over the top of the head to the top of his forehead the makes a slight turn back toward the ear. Looks like a baseball. And that these were done at 6 months and 1 year. The top of his spinal cord did not close like it was suppose to causing spinal fluid to flow into the brain, and optic sac at the base of the skull causing damage to the eyes, resulting in him being legally blind. It has taken nearly 40 years and him going bald to make peace with those scars. We have been married for 26 years and I remember when I would push his hair back and he would shake my hand off because he didn't want me to see the scars. Father I don't know where you are going with this, but I wrote it down so you could work with it.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Healing on the Sabbath
Luke 6:6-11. This is one of my favorite miracles. I can just imagine Jesus being in the synagogue. The scribes and Pharisees there watching to see what he will do. and yet the main one in this is the hand of a man. The withered right hand of a man. Did this man know who Jesus was, or had he heard about a healer that really worked? He was willing to go against Jewish law in search of a miracle. And guess what, Jesus didn't break the Sabbath..He never in this section of scriptures said either your sins are forgiven or you are healed. Jesus simply told the man to stretch out your hand. Now to me this is where the wow comes in. The scribes and Pharisees have seen Jesus heal before and were probably leaning forward in their seats just waiting for the your sins are forgiven or you are healed statements, but instead they see a man stretch forth his hand and watch it be restored..no extra words needed..Just the love of God in the shape of a man, poured out on a hand. And the scribes and Pharisees all in an uproar storm out, all bent, their pucker factor was probably in the double digits, because Jesus healed without saying a word. Can you imagine what Jesus' eyes were saying to this man, the look of love, compassion, and forgiveness that was spoken without a single word.
How many times has God spoke to me this way through the looks of those He sets in my path, and how many times have I missed it, because I was all bent because I didn't get the words.
They say that actions speak louder than words. The feet were raging and the hand was praising.
I love the Word. I am in the process of learning to be a person of the Word. Hardest thing for me right now is finding time to spend in the Word. I can climb in a secular book, or surf the web doing the blog thing..self discipline is very lacking..
Email sent to Hollye..I think that Tanner and I are racing to see who will have some type of surgery first. Tanner is set to have his first colonoscopy the 24th of June. Poor kid complained to me that was what all 23 year olds need to have done. They are also going to do an upper GI. Throwing up and blood in stool. Dr said not enough blood for an ulcer, but enough for there to be a problem either in the stomach or small intestine. Dr called today and said CT scan shows a small tublar growth where appendix use to be..has to go back to surgeon for his review and/or decision what to do. Reminded them that this hurts..and has since appendix surgery. Rusty, Cindy, and Patience are as feed up with this as I am, have had some type of problem since January 30, and here it is May already...
How many times has God spoke to me this way through the looks of those He sets in my path, and how many times have I missed it, because I was all bent because I didn't get the words.
They say that actions speak louder than words. The feet were raging and the hand was praising.
I love the Word. I am in the process of learning to be a person of the Word. Hardest thing for me right now is finding time to spend in the Word. I can climb in a secular book, or surf the web doing the blog thing..self discipline is very lacking..
Email sent to Hollye..I think that Tanner and I are racing to see who will have some type of surgery first. Tanner is set to have his first colonoscopy the 24th of June. Poor kid complained to me that was what all 23 year olds need to have done. They are also going to do an upper GI. Throwing up and blood in stool. Dr said not enough blood for an ulcer, but enough for there to be a problem either in the stomach or small intestine. Dr called today and said CT scan shows a small tublar growth where appendix use to be..has to go back to surgeon for his review and/or decision what to do. Reminded them that this hurts..and has since appendix surgery. Rusty, Cindy, and Patience are as feed up with this as I am, have had some type of problem since January 30, and here it is May already...
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Whine and moan day
Ok, today is whine and moan day. Payday and bills are paid and the tithe is set aside which leaves peanut butter sandwiches for the next two weeks. I am so tired of struggling from paycheck to paycheck. Rusty is not working where he gets paid every week or two weeks, so we are surviving on mine, and I am tired of this, and mad at Rusty for not having a job, and for not looking for one until his unemployement ran out, and then when I told him about the one that he has now the only reason he took it was because I was mad. I am nearly 50 years old and planning on retiring from Vz next year, when do I get to quit struggling? When? I know that it is wrong for me to take this out on Rusty, and yet I do. Why, because he is an easy target and because we wouldn't be in this mess if he would find a job...but no he thinks that he can work monday through friday 8 to 5 and until he finds that job..well we can suffer through..I don't want to...Pity party pity party, but these are my feelings and they are real to me. The real problem in all of this is poor money management...and that is my fault, because it is me first...if I want something I am going to buy it and worry about it later. Bruce's wife has this same problem, and has caused them to be way in debt..oops sorry getting off topic there..it's all about me. God you are going to have to change me whether I want it or not...There are so many things I want to do for you, but how can I for others when I don't do to self..be kind to husband, not so sharp, unkind and cruel. picky petty mean spirited..ok I am done.
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