"For my part, I wholeheartedly followed the LORD my God."
Joshua 14:8
Joshua 14:8
My Take Aways
Something Old:
Can I say I wholeheartedly follow the LORD my God?
Something New:
Joshua 13:13
But the Israelites failed to drive out the people of Geshur and Maacah...
Disobedience is not the best way to start life in the Promised Land.
Something to Do:
Live wholeheartedly for the Lord, serious in intention, purpose, or effort; showing depth and sincerity of feeling.
34 Comments:
Hello everyone,
I have had things to comment on but am just now getting to it, so here goes:
So did anyone else start hearing music when Joshua marched around the city of Jericho? I kept hearing “Joshua fought the battle of Jericho, Jericho, Jericho…” Sunday school song!
I usually do my reading first, then my writing, then the vlog, then the blog, but on Wednesday I did the other things and watched the video last. Wendy—I had written down confidence also when the Israelites were paralyzed with fear and their courage melted away. In Mary Kay, our director tells us that you would work differently if you KNEW the outcome was guaranteed. When the Lord was with them, they fought with confidence. When he wasn’t, they fought afraid. I loved the “Get up” response of the Lord.
Also, Psalm 139 is my very favorite. I have written it out too because it is so beautiful.
Jennifer Renee—I know how you feel. Sometimes I read the reading, get my nugget, and then Wendy will pull something out that I didn’t even see coming! And I will think, “Did I read the same reading?” and laugh, but I LOVE it. I love the days that I do find the same things, but even more love the days that others see different things. SOOOOO much learning and sharing!
Also—if we made it through the toughest books so far, hallelujah! I have read the Bible once before (by myself) and I thought Kings was the longest, hardest chapter. Imagine my disappointment when the very next chapter, Chronicles, said it was a repeat of Kings!!
Jennifer--Iowa
Good morning,
Sometimes God "extends my day" by allowing me to become WIDE after a few hours of sleep, like tonight. So, I hopped right on and checked out the comments y'all made after my bedtime. I especially liked Debbie's reference to Corinthians 1:4 about us "comforting others with the comfort we ourselves have received from God." That is surely one of the things this wonderful fellowship does well, and I thank God for that.
On to our reading -- Joshua leading his people to defeat after defeat of those the Lord said they must conquer. As I pondered, I wondered if this could also be an allegory for the eventual spread of Christianity around the world, much later after the coming of Jesus Christ. And going even further to the personal level, could it be an allegory for our own conquering of the sins we harbor inside, the secret sins that God knows about and wants us to rid ourselves of so we can be obedient to his word?
God has been changing me over the past few years, in ways that I'm not sure I could even put adequately into words. He has been waging a long and patient battle to rid me of the sin of pride, especially.
I'm heading back to bed, and will take Rhonda's advice to Jennifer Renee to "breathe deeply and feel the loving arms of the Lord around me." Goodnight, GIG's. "See" you in the morning.
Peace,
Michelle in New England
Dear Jeanne,
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. (John 14:27) And likewise Psalm 29:11 - The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace.
I too am sorry you miss your mother and you are plagued with insecurity. As Grace and Peace said, our God is the God of second chances. He is molding you into His image. He does not want you to give up your time with Him or in fellowship with others. He wants to fill you as only He can. Rest in Him who is able to provide more than we can ever imagine!
Wendy, I saw your heart re: Melissa's mother's passing. I am sending up continued prayer for all of the P31 team. Relationships with mothers are precious indeed. Even if the relationship was rocky in this life, there is often an unbreakable bond with mothers and their children.
Today I focused on land. Here is the link back to the maps for all of you who prefer to see things rather than just read the words: http://net.bible.org/map.php?map=ot4
Matthew Henry commented on the order of the land assignment.
"Judah and Joseph were the two sons of Jacob on whom Reuben’s forfeited birth-right devolved. Judah had the dominion entailed on him, and Joseph the double portion, and therefore these two tribes were first seated, Judah in the southern part of the land of Canaan and Joseph in the northern part, and on them the other seven did attend"
I never knew this before. I also was intrigued by the specific requests for land. Caleb's I had noted last year, but this year I also noted the request of his daughter for land with springs of water. I also noted that Caleb did not hesitate to give it to her. He granted her the upper and lower springs. Here is what Matthew Henry says about that:
" two fields so called from the springs that were in them, as we commonly distinguish between the higher field and the lower field. Those who understand it but of one field, watered both with the rain of heaven and the springs that issued out of the bowels of the earth, give countenance to the allusion we commonly make to this, when we pray for spiritual and heavenly blessings which relate to our souls as blessings of the upper springs, and those which relate to the body and the life that now is as blessings of the nether springs."
His point being that it is not wrong to ask for the sustenance we need to keep our inheritance fertile and vibrant. That is a good lesson for me.
"Ask and you shall receive, seek and you shall find, knock and the door shall be opened unto you." (Matt. 6:7)
Have a great Friday everyone!
Karen, Basel
She followed the Lord wholeheartedly. Amen! Wouldn't that be a great saying on our headstone someday? May it be true for all of us.
Karen, thank you for the lesson on the upper and lower springs. That was really good. I noted that Caleb's daughter must have been very special to him. Just as we are special to God.
Is anyone else feeling under attack since we started our Purity prayer/Joshua challenge? I sure am. I had a fitful night's sleep, I have an eye condition that has flared up, and my thoughts are not those of encouragement that I vowed to have each day until Easter.
I continue to call myself Holy thru the blood of Christ; I continue to purify myself and wait on the wonders God intends to show me (us). Lord, hold the evil one back and may Your Name always be glorified and magnificent in this land.
Morgen
Joshua 13:33-Moses gave no allotment of land to the tribe of Levi, for the Lord, the God of Israel, had promised that He himself would be their allotment. allotment is an assigned share or portion-the Levites got the best allotment-God Himself was their portion-It hit me we have recieved the best allotment also-1st Peter 2:9sayes But you are a chosen people, a royal preisthood,a holy nation, apeople belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. God Himself is our allotment because of Jesus Christ. We are alive in Christ! Praise God forever Words cannot describe my gratidude to Father Son and Holy Spirit
It's Friday, and we're all saying, 'where did this week go?' smile...
Although God had promised to give them the land, the Israelites had to fight for every inch, it was not just handed over to them. The land was divided up for them, and they had to faithfully and trustingly, seek the guidance from the Lord to possess the land.
How this so applies to us too! Whoa (!) what happens as we choose to not wipe out our idols and linger on the East side? Our Father is very jealous for us. He wants our whole-heart. How easy it is to settle for less, hanging among the non Believers and participating with them in activities that are not showing that we are holy and separate. God does not want us living among them and holding on to their evil ways. Thank you, LORD for keeping me attached to you. In my mind, God is the fisherman, and he "caught" me so very long ago...but, he allowed my "fishing line" to go out deep into the sea...and bit by bit, in his mercy, he is reeling me back in to him. The closer I get to him, the more I feel his presence. The desire to be holy and sanctified to him is more important than 'hanging out on the East side.' Oh, I'm overwhelmed with the awesome God we serve. He pursues us. He woo's us, and he is watching over us every single minute of the day. Always working. Always.
Wendy, I too, want my descendants to know that, “Lori, followed the Lord with all of her heart.” I so want my faith past down to each and every family member.
Even in the middle of all these battles, us ladies can pull out some sweet nuggets!
Praying for the Proverbs 31 special ladies today.
Kate, aahh, you're doing good! I remember the bday parties...then doesn't there always seem to be a holiday too? :) "How the King rejoices in your strength, Oh Lord! He shouts for joy because you give him the victory" Psalm (21:1).
Praying for you Morgen.
Jennifer I am loving your posts sweetie-pie! I loved the words someone lifted up for you to help you sleep!
Jeanne you are ministering to your grand-baby in a big way and your children’s eyes are on you, taking in more than you realize. Don’t look back and dwell, because God wants you looking at today. Living today and modeling his love and compassion all around you, and this my dear friend, YOU R DOING! He is smiling down at you right this very moment. Remember, God has your children attached to his leash. He will begin to reel them in at His time...My own mother, bless her little heart...read her Bible every single day, however, she never, ever talked about her faith. She took us to church and she was serving sister...but, it was just never talked about. She prayed every night that we would read His Word...well, look what's happened to me! Maybe it took 50 years, but I am zealous in my love for the Lord. I do believe that I'd much rather my kids who I know are attached to God...become zealous at age 50, rather than walk mediocre like so many Christians do today. You just keep praying to God and he WILL take care of your children, he will! Don't let the enemy allow you to waste your thoughts on the 'yesterdays...' Today is the day to praise the Lord!
So much more I want to say, but need to get going now! I've got a fun - filled weekend...a huge family celebration in honor of my son turning 16...and my favorite, and only, grandma, who turns 94 on Monday!
Let's spread our love today, ya'll!
Prayers and hugs and love coming your way, Lori
Good morning Wendy, and my GIGs, have been unable to comment as I have been trying to catch-up since returning from my cruise...sadly I was one of the many sick on the ship.
My deepest sympathy to Melissa in the passing of her mother. Been there and know what you are experiencing.
I also underlined "wholeheartedly followed the Lord my God". My name is Ernestine and I never liked my name until I discovered the meaning "Intent in purpose" which describes me in a nutshell. Whatever I've been given to do was always done wholeheartedly. Now, I love my name and this passage was the confirmation I needed.
Dixie, I'm 80 years and am so excited to be in this study with all the young ladies. They are teaching me so much...we're never too old to learn.
Karen, Basel is a lovely city. Your comments have blessed me. Why are you in Basel?
Caleb asked and received; his daughter asked and received. Our Father hears our requests and always answers in His time.
Blessings to each of you and precious Wendy.
Teeny in NC
Hi Everybody ...Happy Friday:)
Thank you all! For me with it coming to the most Holy week next week...My spirit is...in a state of deep mourning...How could we crucify our Lord? In my little book Which is (dedicated to Bishop Ken Untener (1937-2004) who was inspired to create the Little Books. His life and faith continue to be their driving force). I did have the privledge to listen to Him (Bishop Ken)...when he would come to our church for a few visits. He was a awesome shepherd. His voice reminded me of Jesus...soft,calming,understanding.
Today's reading:
At noon darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon. And at three o'clock Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachtani?" which is translated, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?'
Some of the bystanders who heard it said, "Look, he is calling Elijah." one of them ran, soaked a sponge with wine, put it on a reed and gave it to him to drink, saying, "Wait, let us see if Elijah comes to take him down." (Mk. 15:33-36)
The entire scene is wrapped n eerie darkness. God is beginning to step in.
The bystanders were not sympathetic. The offer of wine was not a friendly gesture, more mockery than anything.
The death was not a pretty sight. Jesus "screams" (the literal meaning of the Greek word) a desperate prayer. These are his last words in Mark's Passion. Never had he felt so alone.
Jesus is not questioning the existence of God. He is struggling with the apparent silence of God.
Jesus learned well from the Psalms not to hide his feelings when he prays. We can all take a cue from that. There are times when the best way to pray is to tell God how we honestly feel, pour our heart out. God can take it.
Spend some quiet time with the Lord.
Sweet Sister Jeanne....Do just that...pour your heart out...God can take it.
The bible reading...these past few days...I am reading it....but my heart is with the passion of our Lord. Thank you all for ALL of your insight.
Lord let me walk this lonely hour with you...under the weight of the wood.
Sister in Christ
Rhonda
Good morn, I haven’t had a chance to watch Wendy or read anything but the comments yet today, but had to jump in and send a hug to Jeanne! I hope today is brighter. Healing a broken heart takes such time. Up and down days. Sometimes when I am tired or lacking physically I get especially sad, and so I ask you to pay attention to your health. Eat and stay hydrated and rested, so the burden does not take a toll on your body as well as your heart. Your Mama is there with you, talk to her.
I love what Lori said about God reeling in his children! It is a gradual process of learning to trust in Him. I grew up in a strong Catholic family and attended school with good people, but even though I had all this instruction around me, in the end it had to be my decision to claim my place as God’s daughter. The groundwork was laid, but others could not do this for me. I had to restructure what I learned as a child and fit it to my mature self. No one could make me love the Lord!! I had to discover His love with my own personal journey. And as I look at my children who have been raised as best as we knew how (and remember Moms—we can only do what we are capable of, and that is our best), I see that they have to claim their own place with God as well. It is their right and heritage. I will pray for them always, but God knows what they need and is at work opening their hearts. I look at Monica, the mother of Augustine, who was so patient with her wayward son, and try to have faith in God’s plan! God is in control, even when I think I should hold the fishing pole!
Sue, in Keller TX, I agree with you about the speed of this study—I feel like I am on the Bible train that travels everywhere and never stops! It keeps everything very fresh and exciting, but so rich with the benefits of all the experience and wisdom of everyone! The best journey of my life!!
Just wanted to say to Kate, bless you! One of my daughters is a teacher, and I see all the extra hours she has to invest outside of school. It is a challenge-- to be torn between responsibility to your students and to your own children. You are doing your best, and may you be blessed in your efforts!
Thanks Karen for the map link! It really helped me to “see” the promised land!
Hello to Teeny (I love your name!) and welcome!
Off to read, blessings to all,
Jacque
My prayers and thoughts with Melissa this morning. I know firsthand the encouragement Wendy speaks of. She is always encouraging me on my journey of being on the prayer team. She is amazing. I am on my knees for her and her family today.
Dear Jeanne, I prayed for you this morning. Even thought I don't watch Oprah anymore, I have always remembered something she said. She said on her show one day, "We do the best we can with what we know and when we know better we do better." It is the same point Jacque and others were making. Stormie Omartian says to pray that God will make up for our lack and that where we make mistakes He will step in and use them for our children's good and for their best. You did what you knew to do, the best you could. The past is behind and Paul encourages us, "Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 3:12-14). You are a light for Him :) Your children will see that. You might want to check out Stormie's book "Praying for Your Adult Children." All her books are fabulous! {{HUG}} coming your way.
Morgen- I had terrible dreams last night. They woke me up really early this morning and I was not able to go back to sleep. Keep pressing on, the enemy does not want us doing all that we are doing!
May it be said of me that I followed my Lord wholeheartedly.
Rhonda and everyone, pondering your posts today.
Teeny and Dixie so glad to have you on here. I just love the age span of us all :)
Have a blessed day everyone, the sun is back out here in TN!
Love,
Brandee
((Jeanne)) I hope you are feeling better today...I lost my Mom 4 years ago and sometimes it still hurts a lot...Go to God and he promises He will comfort you.
Now on to my Dad...It touched my heart in 14:10 - 11..."Today I am eighty-five years old. I am as strong now as I was when Moses sent me on that journey, and I can still travel and fight as well as I could then" My Dad is 83 and sometimes he is just like that...I just want to hug them both...
Blessings to you all and striving to wholeheartedly follow my God,
Sue
Praying for Melissa & her family. May God comfort them today and in the coming days. It's so difficult when our Moms leave us when we're not ready (but then are we ever ready?).
Jeanne, I posted after you last night. (((HUGS)))
Teeny, welcome! Aside from the sickness, I hope you had a fabulous time at the cruise.
Lori, two momentous events for you this weekend. Congratulations! So that means someone is getting his driver's license soon? Exciting times for him, anxious times for us. But it drives us to pray more for them.
I also highlighted Caleb's statement. May that be said about all of us.
Karen, I wondered about Caleb's daughter's request. Thank you for finding it for us! It got me thinking about our van. It started making a weird noise last night (it probably couldn't handle the driving that my older son put in it yesterday - he almost used up all the gas I put in the night before!) and it's 10 years old. Is it okay to ask God for a car? That seems so...carnal.
I'm sad to report that I didn't do well in our Joshua challenge. Where did I fall? Church, of all places! I took my son for the Bible Quiz mock quiz practice last night. And they offered them cookies and sweets. It was late, I was hungry, I partook. Resolving to start over again today. On the other hand, I have not watched reality tv so that's a plus.
Have a blessed day everyone.
Oh dear sisters, I am asking for prayer. I just spoke to my daughter who goes to Taylor University, in Upland IN and they had a member of their "family" killed yesterday. It sounds like a domestic violence case, the wife,who worked at the school, separated from her husband and was living with her mom. The husband came yesterday morning and shot her, the mother escaped to call police. It was a 10 hour standoff. He also took his own life by the time the police stormed the house. Now 2 children have no parents. One daughter is a sophmore at Taylor the the younger one is 15 and out of the country on a missions trip with her church. This morning at chapel the President of the University was crying. This is a small and close knit community. Oh how my heart is breaking. Today my daughter is driving home after her 3:00 class, it is a 6 hour drive,it is the start of their Easter break, keep her travel in prayers also. Thanks so much. I need to go and find some quiet time with my Father.
Blessings,
Linda in PA
Father in Heaven,
Please bring peace to the family near Taylor University and the children who lost parents to such violence. Wrap your loving arms around them. Strengthen them, comfort them, and carry them in your strength and in your love. Father also be with Linda's daughter as she journeys home to be with her family. Take away her anxiety, keep her alert and safe on the drive, and bring her home to family that loves her.
Bless all those who mourn and take away our anger and our fear. Move mightily in our lives. In your name I pray, Amen.
I pray dear Lord that you will surround these children with your love and peace. I pray against the enemy's plan to get them to turn away from You during trial and pain and grief, but instead may they turn to You in a deeper way. Surround them Lord with Your people and those who will love them during this very difficult time. May your hand of protection on Linda's daughter Lord, guide her home safely. In Christ' name, Amen.
Linda in PA....
I'm at a lost for words....but know prayers went up for all.
A hug is coming to you through these air waves ...feel it embrace it. God bless You...Let us know when your daughter is safe in your arms.
May you feel Him embrace you in your quiet time.
We have a wonderful group here...and I can just see all of us... with tear filled eyes wanting to embrace you...and telling you it is going to be okay.
Warm Hugs
Rhonda
I just found out last night that my best friend from elementary school passed away on the 15th of this month from bone cancer. I had not talked to her in a long time but had reconnected with her a little bit on FB. She leaves behind two small children under the age of 5 and a husband. I was very upset last night and my heart just goes out to this family. Please pray for the Garrison's as well.
Love,
Brandee
good day, girlfriends!
i am teary after reading all the posts today...
i had a fabulous 26 hours on call delivering 5 healthy babies to lovely families, all safely, Praise God!! of course, i got no sleep, but the Lord did redeem my time, as an hour and a half of sleep this morning seems to have refreshed me... He is the Keeper of time....
seems there is so much death... praying for everyone. the founder of my girls' dance company also died wednesday, and her 50 yr old daughters are having a hard time, as they had a 'challenging ' relationship with her. i didn't know her, but her reputation was that of a harsh and demanding person. i'm not sure how to console my dear friends who had such a conflicted relationship with their mom?
but then God answered my prayer, via my sweet GIG! thank you karen for your quote: Even if the relationship was rocky in this life, there is often an unbreakable bond with mothers and their children.
thank You for sustaining me in this life, ordering my steps, my time, and for leading me to this nourishing study, my Lord!
please help me to follow You wholeheartedly!
amy jane
What a day!
I'm praying for all of the above requests. Makes me so sad to think of all of these horrible things happening to people, and yet ... they, and maybe all of us, are closer to Jesus because of it. Sometimes, doesn't it just seem as if He MUST be coming back soon??
I want that to be said of me, too: Amy served the Lord with her whole heart. A girl in my Bible study group last year said to add her name in Hebrews 11 to the Faith Hall of Fame, that "Amy, in faith, ......" I want to live that out!
I love how God redeems time! I'm tagging things for a mommy consignment sale this weekend and have to be ready to drop off today. I woke up this morning and heard my son talking in his room and realized that I had forgotten to set my alarm! Somehow, though, my husband got his lunch, I got to read, I spent time with the kids, and the first vanload has been dropped off. I'm almost done! (Now to clean the house.) I love knowing that I don't have to have a perfect plan - I know the Perfect Planner. :-)
Hey ladies-
I love reading your blogs and wish I had more time to do so- they do encourage me when I do.
My heart is so being challenged lately. And this lesson went right along with it. To live wholeheartedly for the Lord-I am so stubborn and can be hard hearted but I so desire that the Lord would just take that out of my heart! Please pray that I would see His work in my heart!
Thank so much!
Kimberly
Prayers going out for all today. The enemy is not rejoicing as we come together in the Father's name, praying for those who's lives have been so hurt. But, our Father is rejoicing in our crying out to Him, our Father who is the great comforter.
Oh, to have it said of me, that "I have followed the Lord wholeheartedly." I must die to self to grow more in the Lord. That is my "to do".
Jeanne, thank you for comments yesterday. The Lord knew just how much I needed them. Praying for you dear sister.
His,
Gaylene
Dear Father, I am raising up the needs, sadness and fears of this precious spiritual family to You. May your Spirit shower them with the strength, hope, healing and peace that only You can provide. Amen
Jacque
Abba Father,
Our hearts are heavy as we humbly come to You. So many hurting hearts today: students at Taylor, suddenly orphaned children, women who have lost friends, daughters who have lost their mothers, daughters missing their mothers. There are so many needs. You see every hurting heart. We thank you, Father that even when we cannot physically be with them to give them comfort, that You can. So we ask that You be with them. Shower them with Your love, grace, mercy and peace. You are the only One who can fill all our needs.
Thank you, Father.
In Jesusl wonderful name we pray.
Old: Joshua 14:6-15. Caleb was 40 when he spied out the land. It's been 45 years since that day which means the Israelites have only been in the Promised Land for about 5 years. Caleb isn't settling for whatever Joshua gives him. He isn't settling for an easy piece of land on the plains. He wants the Hill Country where the "giants" live in "great walled towns."
New: God tells Joshua they haven't conquered all the land. Then we learn they've only been in the land about 5 years when they divide it up. And in Josh. 14:15 "the land had rest from war." WAIT! Why are they resting?! It's theirs to take so why are they settling and not taking everything?!
What a contrast to Caleb's daughter who gets a husband and (I assume) a good piece of land and then has the audacity to ask for springs to go with the land. She didn't just settle for what her dad had already given her.
Do: DON'T settle. Don't rest until I've fought for all that the Lord has given me. Believe the Lord and live in the reality of his word.
Wendy, thank you...
I noticed another Jennifer commenting, welcome. This is one reason I use my middle name along with my first. Besides the fact that I've always liked my middle name and never had a reason to use it until I started making comments on blogs.
Rhonda,I did get to sleep last night earlier than usual. Thanks for the suggestion. However, I did wake up several times and I couldn't get up like I wanted to do this morning.
Karen, Thanks for writing John 14:27 and Psalm 29:11. I needed those words.
Morgen, I too have been under attack this week. I've been having desires to hurt myself.
I feel like a big FAILURE with this Joshua challenge. I was going to giv up the computer after 10:00 like I mentioned yesterday and I shared why I couldn't do that. Then I was going to give up sugar. That didn't work. I fell.
Today I really didn't get anything out of our reading. However, as I read that land was given to the tribes of Israel, like Ruben, according to their families I thought about how God gives us exactly what we need. He doesn't give us too much and He doesn't give us too little. My mind just went back to the book of exodus when each day the children of Isreal had to go out each day and gather manna for the day and on day six had to gather for two days. God gave them just the right amount that they needed to survive. I hope I'm not too far off the page today.
I did have a thought about this Joshua challenge and would like your thoughts about this.
On Tuesday Lori challenged me to leave a comment every day for the next few weeks and I've done that including Tuesday. Do you think this is something I could do as my Joshua challenge?
Each night I've been praying for you all. I've also been anointing myself and praying for the restoration of my sight. Doctors say there's no hope of this happening but Jesus can make the impossible possible.
Jennifer Renee, If you feel led to ADD a comment instead of taking away something for the Joshua challenge, I think you should do it! Jesus wants us to walk on the water with Him, or to 'reach for the outer limits,' like Dixie keeps saying, and it sounds like daily commenting might be your thing. I don't see why any one person's way of dedicating their time to Him right now needs to be the same - He alone knows what we each need to add or take away to draw closer to Him.
As for the hurting yourself ... I can relate to that. A bit more than ten years ago I ended up caught up in things I didn't know how to get out of, and the only thing that saved me was knowing that God loved me. My head knew it, although I didn't feel it, but that was enough for then. Since then, my favorite parts of the Bible are the places where God spells out just how much He loves us. Renee Swope quoted some verses awhile ago that meant a lot to me, and I've made them my memory verses. I thought you might like them, too. Even now, years later, when my thoughts veer out off the path where they belong, these help. (I like the song "Voice of Truth" by Casting Crowns, too!)
Renee's post is here: http://reneeswope.blogspot.com/2009/06/you-are-exceedingly-more.html
and in case anybody else is in need of these verses, here they are:
He whispers, "You are...
CHOSEN
“For you are a chosen (woman). You are a royal priest, a holy (daughter). God’s very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light.” 1 Peter 2:9
REDEEMED
“Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are Mine.” Isaiah 43:1
LOVED
“You are precious and honored in my sight, and I love you.” Isaiah 43:4
REMEMBERED
I will not forget you. “See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands.” Isaiah 49:16
SECURE
Let the beloved of the LORD rest secure in him, for he shields him all day long, and the one the LORD loves rests between his shoulders. Deuteronomy 33:12
ABLE
The Sovereign Lord is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to go on the heights. Habakkuk 3:19
CALLED
“You are my witness," declares the LORD, "and my servant whom I have chosen, so that you may know and believe me and understand that I am He.” Isaiah 43:10
CONFIDENT
For the Lord will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being snared. Proverbs 3:26
FREE
“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you," declares the LORD , "and will bring you back (set you free) from captivity.” Jeremiah 29:13-14a
ANOINTED
The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor. Luke 4:18-19
BLESSSED
I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. Ephesians 1:18-19
Amy,
Thanks for sharing Renee's post. I printed it out to put in my bible. It's a great reminder.
Jennifer Renee, don't be discouraged that you did not live up to your expectations on the Joshua Challenge. God knows your heart. Nothing we do surprises Him. He has not changed His mind about you. I failed last night too and felt bad. But I'm remember what Paul said, 'Forgetting what lies behind and moving forward..." let's move forward. We'll walk with you.
Jennifer Renee: I like your Joshua Challenge idea of posting each day - cuz my challenge is similar to yours: mine is to use encouraging words each day (in which I've really been under attack and have had alot of bad thoughts instead of good this week). Keep plugging away....pick yourself back up and try, try again. I keep reminding myself of my challenge. Don't let satan get a foothold.
Purifying myself and waiting to see what wonders the Lord will show me (us).
Morgen
Thank you for the wholehearted prayers said for Taylor Univ, and thank you to those who prayed silently. I felt so loved and lifted up by your words. My husband and younger daughter, (the burn victim) were on their way to Va for a soccer tournament and I was at work when my Katie called with the tragic news. I am so glad I had all of you to reach out to. Thanks for being there, when I see you all a great big HUG will be delivered :) Please know that as I read your posts I am praying for you all, even if you do not post. God knows all of our needs.
Praise the LORD that Katie has someone riding home with her, as most of her trip is going to be at night, hopefully she will get here around 11pm. We will have a sleepover in mom's bed (just like when she was young) since we have the weekend together to cry and laugh and share what the LORD is doing in our lives.
What great nuggets you all have pulled out. Mine does not seem so enlightening, but here goes.
After reading the long list of kings defeated I stopped to reflect on all of the enemies the LORD has defeated in my life. As I reflected on His great provisions for me it strengthened me and my faith. On the solid rock I stand. Battles are not pleasant, they can be rather messy and violent. But, oh the victory! LORD may I keep a list of all enemies defeated, as a good reminder that they are defeated, so that I may move forward in You.
My sincere sympathy and prayers to all who have loved ones who have gone home. I pray that you feel the loving arms of the LORD surrounding you. Take a moment and say a prayer or song of praise to our LORD, for that is what our loved ones are doing in heaven. I often "connect" with my mom this way. Thank you LORD for this revelation.
Okay I also failed miserably in my no sweets effort. Ate ice cream right from the container. The enemy of emotional eating. Oh, LORD may I seek you first instead of instant gratification with sweets. Time to GET UP and put on my battle gear :) The enemy never rests, but I can rest in the LORD.
Blessings,
Linda in PA
Jennifer Renee, great big (((hugs))) coming your way. You are soooo not alone. Somedays i get a nugget, somedays i don't. If i don't, i can always count on Wendy &/or the GIGs to share some w/me. God has put us together to help each other out. As for the Joshua challenge - well, tomorrow is a start over day for me. i just have to keep praying and claiming my holiness in Jesus Christ.
Prayers are lifted up for everyone's requests. Jacque & Grace & Peace - what beautiful prayers that you wrote.
Jeanne - You are in my prayers. i lost my mom suddenly 2 yrs ago. While i know that we will be rejoicing w/each other in heaven, sometimes it's just rough.
Morgen - i, too, have felt like i was under attack. Trouble sleeping and, what seems to be, a little extra temptation thrown in for good measure. The enemy is lurking.
i thank God everyday for leading me to this bible study & to each and everyone of you.
Stacey in Tx
p.s. - can you add my friend and her family to your prayers. Her mom was just admitted to hospice.
I, too am lifting up every request today in prayer. For those hurting, for those saddened kids who lost both parents, for those who have lost loved ones, and those who are remembering loved ones already gone. I know my time is coming...very soon, my mom is 99, and my SIL told me today that she is no longer able to use her walker, that it is the wheel chair all the time, now. I don't think you can every prepare yourself for when it comes. We just have to rely on the love of the Lord, and ask for His comfort and the ability to get through the sad time when it comes. My mom's mind is totally gone, she no longer remembers her children by name. The mom I grew up with has already gone. I keep asking the Lord to please take her Home, she is so miserable.
Just know dear ones, you are remembered in prayer. Also remember that your tears are precious to God...He stores them in a special bottle. He feels your pain. Psalm 56:8
Jan TN
Just testing to see if my new account works...BTW...my Joshua challenge is Jelly Beans...I was feeling obsessed having those around and it did not feel good that I could not resist...
Wow,I all these comments have left tears in my eyes and lots of prayer for every one in my heart.
Morgen~ my challenge is similar to your's,but I have been using the term "speak a blessing" I will now also think of it as "using encouraging words" too.
Amy Jane~I used to help deliver babies too,it is a special gift to see life so brand new.
Linda in PA~Lifting you all up in prayer and those at Taylor. Also, thank you for the idea of keeping a list of enemies defeated.Your words spoke to me today,I needed reminded of past victories.
Jennifer Renee, I want you to know I prayed for my baby Claire to be healed after finding out during pregnancy that she had a severe birth defect and would not survive birth. The doctors stole every ounce of hope I had for her,they actually spoke the words,"there is no hope" I put my faith in what our God the Ultimate Physican could do. She was not healed in the way I had prayed for her,but God worked the miracle of her life in His way. She has some struggles in this life,but she is a blessed gift that we cherish! So,let her life inspire you to know that God does hear your prayer and He will heal you & it may be in a way you never expected. Have you ever read any Joni Erickson-Tada books. She is an amazing inspiration!
My nugget today was the same as the anonymous friend from this morning~ the God of Israel had promised that He himself would be their allotment. I am like the Levites. I have the best allotment-God Himself!
Blessing to all,praying now at this late hour, for those of you sleeping to rest well and have peacful dreams. Especialy those of you who have been at battle during the night. Praising God for all He is doing in our lives. My whole hearted praise to Him!
I pray that many of you are resting in the Lord right now as it is late, and we have Palm Sunday tomorrow. Hosanna in the highest!!!
Dear Lord, please give my GIG who are having trouble sleeping a good night of rest with your angels watching over them. Let them feel Your Presence if they do awake...breath Your Spirit on each one so they will feel comforted as only You can comfort. Thank you, Jesus for blessing them...In your name I pray, Jeanne
I know we are awaiting the scripture that Lori's mom uses.
Since so many of us are having to keep our sword sharp as we are becoming a thorn in our enemy's side as OLIVIA said.;), I offer a verse from Jer.15:20 (with my input for encouragement) "Then I will make you( women of this study) a fortified(strengthened) wall of bronze to this people(sadness, fear of the unknown, dreams, death). They(the enemy's weapons or choices for our lives) will fight against you but will not overcome(defeat, conquer) you, for I am with you to save(redeem) you and deliver(liberate) you. Beth Moore's comment on this verse:"Do not let the enemy steal one bit of the victory God has for you. We must not allow intimidation or fear to imprison us in any area. Remember, Satan can presume no authority in your life. He will do his best to bluff you. Don't let him." Thank you,Lord, for your Word and for Beth Moore.
As for the Israelites keeping the Canaanites for slaves and for them not going the extra 90% (DIXIE) ;-->
I think of the areas of my life that I am a slave to.... Def. of slave: one who has lost the power of resistance; a person who is owned by someone/something. Does this tie in with my Joshua Challenge???? Rom.6:16 says: "Do you not know that if you offer yourselves to someone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of that one you obey--either of sin leading to death or of obedience leading to righteousness." B. Moore says that we have exactly two options: we can be slaves to a loving God or slaves to sin. Door #3 only exists on "Let's Make a Deal".
Amy: I had watched Beth Moore on tv 2 wks. ago and she was teaching on your verse: 1 Cor.16:13. I had written it down and pulled it out this a.m. to read again before I left to do errands for Easter. She said, "Show courage even before you feel courage. In whatever challenge we have, we are to think of how a courageous person would act in that situation." I am constantly amazed at how gives us some of His same blessings when we are miles apart...but not from Him.
Sorry about so much from B.M., but I love me some Beth Moore!!!
I love me some Jesus too,
Jeanne
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