Hey, Girls! You are doing such a fabulous job with your group discussion. I’ve especially loved watching you respond to one another. You really are such a tremendous and unique community of women. I’m honored to journey with you here. Let’s continue hearing from all those who have been active from the beginning but let’s also hear from more of you out there who are watching and reading but haven’t really jumped in here and participated. I promise you that when we wrap this thing up, you will be far more satisfied with the experience if you personally invested in it.
We are reaching the halfway point in our journey and have arrived at a place of utmost importance in our pursuit of wholeness. Your assignment this week is based on only one chapter of the book: CHAPTER 9. As you will soon discover, it is not a chapter you just read. It’s a chapter you actually do. A chapter you actually pray. Please take it seriously. Everything ahead of us hinges on this experience. It is placed at this point in the journey prior to the prescriptive and practical phase of the book so that the way is cleared and our dignity restored enough to move forward. It will help place us in a posture God can bless with the rich kind of confidence He wants for His people and activate the power we have within us to think and FEEL differently. That’s essentially where the remainder of the book heads.
Here are your very simple assignments this week:
1. Do (don’t just read but actually do) Chapter Nine. In your comment to this post, simply reflect back on your time with God and share anything specific that you received from it.
2. Go to last Saturday’s post (3/6/10) and look at all the verses in the comment section. You will find a wellspring! Pick five Scriptures that speak most powerfully to you right now – five that you feel like you need the most – and write them on the inside of the back cover of the book. (This should be a lot less intimidating than what I asked you to write inside the front cover at the beginning of our journey!)
And that’s it for this week! I want the prayer journey to stand by itself and clear the way for mighty works ahead. We have some of our most eye-opening moments in the second half so stay with it, Girls!
Since we only have one chapter this week, this is a great time for many of us to play catch-up!
I am packing this very moment and about to head to Toronto for our first 2010 Living Proof Live. We can’t wait to see a God-show in Canada! Come on, Canadian Sisters! We’ve got plenty of room for you!
I love all of you very much.
Elena Abraszek 
I'm a newbie to the LPM blog. My sweet 13yr.-young son overheard me say in February that I didn't yet have Beth Moore's latest book. Guess what that child surprised his Mama with for Valentine's Day? I've been reading on my own, but I'm jumping into your blog group right where you are. I've been a student of Beth Moore through many studies. This is the 1st time I've ever left a comment on any blog!
Elena
42 yrs.
Married
Three children
Jennifer
30's
Married
Mpls, MN
The prayer was wonderful and hit home in so many places that needed to be touched. I underlined and cried in many places. But what I felt while reading it out loud was absolutely amazing. I felt his hands holding me and showing me haw much He loves me.
I loved the part in the prayer where it says"You are the One who gave it(it being dignity)." WOW! Praise God for all he does for us!
It has been a week since I placed myself on my face and slowly read loud the prayer that changed my heart. I had initially just read it over quickly and then chose a time where I would not be interupted and read aloud, allowing the words to sink in deeply,to touch places within my heart and mind that no one was permitted, and to finally give God the all access pass that I seemed to have withheld.
Even now with the book open to the prayer as I write this blog, my heart swells with joy and comfort for the time spent in His presence, bringing to Him all that I longed to fix but was inaptly able to do on my own.
God is so gracious and tender that He gave me time to let the words resonate within my head, and more importantly to resonate within my soul. He brought freedom for this captive as He has been doing for this past year, with the various studies from our precious Beth.
Thank you Beth for your hand in this help, I could not have done this alone. Thank you for being the author who is open to the Great Author who is still writing chapters in this heart.
Diana
age 44
married
Surrey, BC Canada
I haven't been able to sit in a quiet place yet, but I NEEDED that prayer in chapter 9 right now. Today. Before I face what is going to be really hard tonight. I've recently been engaged and now my fiance is talking about holding the wedding off–maybe calling it off. This is so scary. Much of it has to do with my insecurities that tear at both of us. I've almost read through the prayer in chapter 9 twice, while sitting here at my desk at work (it's a slow day, ok?). I have found the Lord bring SUCH strength and confidence over the past few days in all of this. Much of it was from the verses posted last Saturday. For the first time in a year, I have felt courageous and brave. I don't know if this relationship will end in marriage or not, but I am trusting the Lord to help me be strong and work through this relationship. There was a moment early this week where I felt like saying, "I can't do it. It's too painful. I'm bound to fall apart. I want to just fall apart." At that moment, though, the Lord helped me see that if my reaction would be to fall apart and run, I had my answer right there. Instead, I can stand confidently as the Lord goes before me. If it doesn't work out, it will be because we both sat down, talked through the differences, and made a decision based on wisdom, but not based on fear. I am praying that tonight I'll be able to stand–not because I get affirmation from my fiance–but because I have affirmation from my God. Please pray this will get to my heart not just for the moment but forever! I'm posting this now as a way to say to God that I trust him now, even before the next events happen. Lord, help my unbelief!
OK, I am really sad and frustrated that I have not been able to start this study with all of you yet, even though, I ordered my book through LPM store a week before the book was to be released. First I was told it was due to the snow storms, that it must have been held up in the mail. On March 1st, I was told they were going to re-ship me another book since the first one never arrived, and it is March 11th and I still have not gotten my book!!!! I am soooooooo far behind on getting caught up with you. Guess I will just have to ask for a refund and go buy the book locally and read on my own. Mona in Lewisville
I've been reading ahead because I just can't stop myself. I am so excited about what God is doing with me. I'm loving the journey of reading the book and then reviewing it with your homework assignments. I did the chapter 9 prayer a couple of weeks ago and I just keep coming back to it. It is such a powerful prayer that I think I need to keep praying it regularly once this all ends.
Another scripture that I've continually prayed through this journey is Phillipians 4:13, " I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." It popped up again this morning in your Daniel week 11 video. Wow, it was so powerful. I feel certain that God is working on my selfishness and my insecurity simultaneously. I know I will not be free to live the holy life he has for me if I'm not deliberate about it every single day.
Thank you Beth, for letting God work through you to enlighten me! He is such a wonder. I really love how he works in us. Our God is an awesome God!
Dena
39
Married
Illinois
Dear Anonymous 12:14,
I'm excited about the positive changes in your life, and I'm agreeing with you as you walk toward meeting with your fiance.
Janie
Iowa
50's
Married
Just had to second Siesta Pam's request for a little So Long Insecurity spiral booklet of our verses/prayers. Purse size to carry in times of crisis and daily doses for reminders and inspiration. I've been trying to copy and getting behind. Thank you, thank you!
It was very easy to make this prayer my own!
I am especially aware that I need Him to give me discernment to recognize LIES and not tolerate them at all, regardless of where they originate.
I'm struck by the realization that self-loathing is a "flagrant sin" which I have tolerated far too long.
So very thankful that He has been with me "every moment, even when I felt there was no one to take care of me."
Clinging to the promise that He is always with me and will never leave me orphaned. When everything around me shakes, He is unshakable!
Looking forward to seeing some new fruit, now that those old roots are being dealt with.
Tami
Louisiana
40s, married
Oh girl, this brought out my ugly cry.
"You know how driven I am by fear and how exhausted I am from surrendering to it." I never really realized before this book that so many of my insecurities really are driven by fear. God's word says that He did NOT give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control (2 Tim. 1:7). Lord may your precious gifts become evident in my life!
If I recognized how precious and valuable I am in His site – I wouldn't constantly need others to affirm me in order to feel good enough. That takes SOOOO much pressure off of myself (trying to be perfect) and takes pressure off my relationships (I'm sure my constant pleas for affirmation wear them out too!).
Jesus is perfect in a way that I will NEVER be and there were groups of people that didn't like Him when he walked the earth. Thank you for reminding me that I can't please everyone, and that's ok. Thank you Jesus for being a great example!
God is good!
Sarah
New Mexico
20s
Married
Nelli
20s
Kingsport, TN
Married
1. I did Chapter 9 about a week ago. I cried (even probably got into the "ugly cry" a couple of times) but I felt so encouraged at the end. It helped to get it down on paper. I plan on going back many times to re-visit this prayer.
2. One of my 5 verses I am going to memorize is "You have circled this mountain long enough. Now turn north". Deut. 2:3 NASB. I just loved that!
I am a writer and a public speaker in many facets- In Ministry, as an Educator, and a Historian. My husband teases that I have the gift of turning 100 words into a thousand, but after my moment with the Lord praying through chapter 9 I have only one word… WOW!
This is the first time I've visited this blog (or any blog for that matter). I finished the book yesterday. WOW!! I never really thought about how things in my childhood and teenage years contributed to my insecurity (abuse,both sexual and emotional/verbal, promiscuity) as an adult. God is really working through this book to help me face issues that I either ingored or didn't realize were there. I do find myself seeking the approval of others, trying to control people or situations (namely my husband), and being a total perfectionist (I put way too much pressure on myelf to succeed). In my mind I've got to succeed to be loved or liked. Boy, has reading the book opened my eyes to how warped that is, but it's the way I recieved approval from my mother all my life. God has A LOT of healing to do, and I've got A LOT of letting go to do.
I know my God is an awesome God and I don't have to do anything to have His unconditional love and approval. I praise Him for leading me to this book!
Beth, I have done lots of your studies and they all have had a profound effect on my walk, but this one has definetly touched some issues that I've kept covered from everyone, including myself. Thanks for allowing God to use you to touch the lives of others!
I haven't had the opportunity to pray chapter 9 (homeschooling a five year old), but I await the healing that I know will come! I am "clothed with dignity"!
LeAnne
32
Married mom
Talladega, AL
I've been sitting in chapter 9 for a while. I've prayed the prayer more than once, and each time I pour it out, something new seems to resonate in me.
So I will continue to let the Spirit search me through these words. It's amazing.
We love you too very much!
Becky
Owasso OK
40's
married
Just popping in to say that I am hosting a SLI book club in my home and it is THE sweetest thing I’ve been a part of in a long time! There are seven of us and some weeks we laugh so hard we cry…other weeks we’ve just cried with each other. The Lord has moved powerfully in our times together (every Friday afternoon) and I am certain that when this book club comes to an end, every-single-one of us will come away changed…for the BETTER!
Last week, we took some time to each share about a memory that we have of something we’ve done as a result of insecurity. Oh my…I thought I was going to die laughing!
One of us caused such a scene at her husband’s fancy company Christmas party…making sure everyone knew that she did not trust a certain co-worker of his that appeared to be flirting…she’ll never live it down!
Another one of us actually dropped to her knees (in a skirt!) in a bookstore and began to crawl as fast as she could in order to avoid being spotted by an acquaintance who was wearing exactly the same outfit! Unfortunately, she wasn't fast enough! 🙁
We all agree, it is high time we get our dignity back!!
Anyway, thank you for writing this book for all of us, and for doing these weekly posts. What a blessing!!!
Beth,
Wish I could be with you in Toronto. I pray for you, your safety, that your voice with hold up and your strength. May God be with you every step of the way and comfort you with his everloving arms. I hope you enjoy Toronto…Rebecca Canada
LORI at 9:28..I was and sometimes still am where you are so my prayers and thoughts are with you. They come from my heart.
REDEEMED at 1:46…Oh sister, I too have been molested, abused and am a perfectionist. I can't trust anyone. Read Beth's prayer in chapter 9. It is so for all of us. Prayers for you.
MAY I third the motion for a spiral book of all the scriptures on Saturday!!!!… Rebecca
My Dear Beth: I've been reading quietly, haven't yet commented & reflecting on what the LORD is doing in my HEART through this book! There's been so much work towards healing and I serve a mighty GOD who HEALS!! Reminds me of the song by Point Of Grace Heal the Wound…"used to pray that You would take this shame away Hide all the evidence of who I've been But it's the memory of The place You brought me from That keeps me on my knees..And even though I'm free..Heal the wound but leave the scar..A reminder of how merciful You are..I am broken, torn apart..Take the pieces of this heart..And heal the wound but leave the scar." Looking forward to what Chapter 9 will bring! You've been such a blessing to me!! Luv ya MUCHO!!
Carmen :o)
Georgia
Wendy (TICKLEDPINK4U),
I just love your honesty in what you wrote: "I don't know why I haven't been able to do chapter 9 yet. I think I'm a little frightened. A little insecure maybe? I'd be asking God to take away all my insecurities but what happens if He does? I'm afraid that without some insecurity that I may become OVER confident and I so don't want that."
I'm with you! The thought of healing is exciting and so terrifying all at the same time. Way back in my early 20s (I'm in my early 40s now), I went through an intense time of counseling, through which God called me to forgive some life-long and very deep hurts. I remember thinking, "I can't! It's all I've ever known! If I forgive and let go of this, what will be left of me?!" It felt like my heart would be a vast, dark void without the pain and the grudge.
But boy was it worth it. When I forgave, I tasted the first bit of freedom ever, and a new level of LIFE that I had never known rushed in to fill my heart.
I realized just a week or so ago that this book has me standing on a very similar precipice, facing the unknown about what life in this heart will be like if I let go of the insecurity that has been my [very bad] friend all my days. And, like you, I wonder what will become of my heart (pride?!) if I am left without my humbling insecurities.
But God has called us to strength and dignity. Certainly He will grant us the grace to walk humbly with Him while being clothed that way. So what do you say we pray for one another, grab hands, and jump off the edge together – right into Jesus' loving arms, which, He promises, are full of life and health and healing and peace. And if we abide with Him in that new place, He promises we will bear fruit that will bless others who have been held by lies too long like we WERE.
Be strong and take heart!
I'm praying for you as I get ready to jump.
Pray for some of your Siestas. The devil must have a reason to keep their books from them so long. Some have yet to get their Feb 2d original shipment or their replacement book. Beth,we know it is not your or LPM's fault.You put the word out there it was up to others to make sure it got to its intended destination. Thanks for all that you do.
I did chapter 9 the other day. There were parts of the prayer that touched me deeply. I have lines and exclamation points all over it! I found myself doing that "snubbing cry"! Since then, at different times during the day I will just state out loud, "I am clothed in His strengeth and crowned with is digniy." I even posted it on my facebook page. I will continue to tell myself these words FOREVER.
Thank you, Beth, for ALL the journies you have helped lead me through over the past 10 or so years! You are truly a Godsend.
Have a blessed weekend in Toronto.
Renee 52 Colordo Springs Married
I think the neatest thing God revealed to me in chapter 9 is that it does not have to be emotional. I guess as I read that prayer I wanted to be in tears, and at parts I was, but I wanted to be MOVED physically. God showed me that for Him to be moving in my life, does not mean that I necessarily have to feel like a brand new woman on the inside. Sometimes I do, but it is more of a change in my mind. I guess we long so much to be rid of our old thinking, habits, and ways that we want to feel different instantly. God is renewing us and completing us daily- and I am so thankful He is helping me remember it is not based on my feelings!
Beth, praying for Toronto, and that you don't have to brush any hair in the airport, or…that you do!
Wendy,
After I prayed the prayer, I too was afraid of my possible new self. I had thought that I wouldn't even know who I was any more for insecurity took control of most my life. If God healed me who would I be? I had delt with this my whole life. I believe it was Satan getting me to question the healing God had for me.
Well I'll tell you from the other side. I'm more confident. I don't question myself anymore. I talk freely to people. I'm not afraid of people. I'm making friends. I'm doing things I NEVER would have done before, for God's glory. I'M FREE! Yes, I'm a very different person. A person I never thought I could be. The person I've always dreamed to be. The person God can now use. All because He healed me!
Don't be afraid to allow God to heal you and enjoy your new freedom in Him. All good things come from God.
Tamara
Giving all these insecurities to the Lord made me feel refreshed by the Holy Spirit.
There is POWER in the name of Jesus!!!!
Praying for you, Beth,the praise team,all of LPM & our Canadian siestas!Thank you for speaking
God's truths to all of us!
Glory to our Most High!
Sorry, I keep forgetting:
Lisa
Peachtree City, GA
40's
married
Can't believe you're on week five already, and I still don't have a book. However…"tomorrow, tomorrow, I love ya, tomorrow, you're only a day away". Can't wait to see you in Toronto tomorrow and hoping there will be books there for sale!!!!!
Don't know how I'm ever going to sleep tonight!!!!! SO EXCITED! 🙂
I'll just be one gal, out there, lost in a sea of faces, but Ill be praying for you. You have no idea how God has intersected the timing of this event and my need…only God.
Hugs,
Joy
Thank you. Chapter 9 reminded me in neon lights of the work HE has been doing on me for 20 years. HE waited to bring me into His Kingdom until I was nearing 40. Insecurity was a huge issue that HE addressed immediately. This prayer has confirmed for me that I am HIS daughter, loved unconditionally.
Karlys
La Place, LA
58
Married
Beth, I have to tell you what happened to me today and I haven't even read the prayer yet. The Lord finally got to my heart with the message that HE LOVES ME! There is nothing I can ever do to make Him love me more than He does right now. He loved me in my fallen state enough to die on the Cross!!! He doesn't love the perfect me, He loved the imperfect enough to perfect me with HIS BLOOD!!!
If you still do not have the book you pre-ordered, please email me at [email protected]. Thanks!
This pray was just for me. I am beginning to step up in leadership and the ememy is lying to me and I have been letting him. During this pray time I have given it to God and told Him it is not about me, and realizing it doesn't reflect me.I have given it to God and have been praying for His team rather than my team. So this morning a friend of mine said, "She has to much going on right now to take on something else." And for the first time I was at peace with it knowing He already has the exact team picked out, I need to sit back and let God be God. I am so excited to see how it turns out.
Cassie
20's, Happily married to the man of my dreams
Bishop,Ca
This was such a meaningful chapter to me! As I prayed through it, God brought back painful experiences to my memory and showed me how He had used some of them for His glory and some that I still needed a deeper level of freedom for so that He could turn them around.
Other paragraphs brought me to intercede for some extended family members who are causing tremendous hurt and damage to themselves and others. I can see much insecurity behind their actions, and am grateful to have some additional guidance on how to pray rather than being angry or hurt.
I am going to the bookstore to buy 3 more copies tomorrow – for my Mom, my sister, and my grandmother! Who couldn't use additional freedom and restoration?!
Shannon
30
Married
Alabama
new poster
Joyce
Cyril, Ok
I realize now that insecurity has caused me to turn inwardly_be self-absorbed, being self-conscience, and self-condemnation. Like many of you, I am ask God's forgiveness and trusting Him to empower me with His strength. This is still a process, but I am beginning to recognize insecurity more not just in myself, but others too.
The verse that I liked was Isaiah 41:10 which says…So, do not fear for I am with you for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you.
Lord, I am asking now that You take me mold me and make me the kind of woman I should be. Help me not to be selfish, self-centered , but focus on You and your word. Forgive me for not trusting you more. in Christ, Joyce
Thank you, Beth for helping us see more clearly what God wants in our lives.
A very timley prayer for me in that we just found out my husband of 32 years needs a consultation for possible mouth cancer, or maybe not cancer:} God did lead you in this prayer Beth, your good girlfriend, but really He covered everything! Thank you for your being obedient. I really put to much of my security on relationships and esp. my husband, nothing like a health scare to bring that to light. Going to stay anonymous this time, don't know if anyone would put together who we are but I've not asked hubby if I can share. But thanks for your prayers, God knows our names, and so much more!
Please pray for me, ladies. I am so desirous to have a stronghold removed, and for the first time in a while (with the timing of this book) I am so serious. I find myself slipping back already, and I want so much to be free. God is more than enough. I know this. I just let this thing be more for the last few years. I rarely ask for prayer, but I am asking now. Thank you and God bless.
Kristi
Rogersville, TN
Married
30s
Each chapter I'm blown away just a little more. I couldn't believe how much the prayer in Chapter 9 came straight from my heart.
I can never thank God enough for Beth, these bible studies, the women who led me to them, and most of all how much all of it has changed my life.
1. It was an eye opening experience to think that God does not want me to be insecure. In the past I've only thought of how insecurities made me feel; not that they were holding me back from doing God's will. I will be praying every day to be aware of insecurity, any form of pride or unbelief.
I felt suc a peace after my quite time with God and this prayer. I feel refreshed to continue the book and attend the conference.
I am feeling like God is going to do big things in my life from this more than ever.
I knew I had let insecurities hold me back from serving in the past. I just hadn't realized how much they still are.
2. The verses I picked: Isaiah 40:29-31, Psalm 73:26, Psalms 121:1-3 Romans 12:2, and Phillipians 1:6
I haven't been responding and keeping up with y'all like I had intended, but I'm NOT feeling insecure about it! LOL
I just wanted to jump in here and say that though I've been a slacker, I've already read the whole book through cover to cover, and it has changed MY LIFE. Changed it I tell ya! (Well, I mean God changed it)
I had a situation/setting happen that would have been completely different and I'd have killed myself with the insecurity and well.. I did NOT go there. Not even part way. I was chanting, "clothed in strength and dignity" to myself in the bathroom just in case…
Praise the LORD.
Oh and Um, just to still "participate"…
Sasha,
34
Married,
Washington.
Whoohoo!~ 🙂
Can hardly wait for friday evening!
Thank you so much for coming up to minister to your northern neighbours.
Back to chapter 9 for tonight.
Safe journey
Love you too, Beth!
As a side note…I find it very interesting that every time I try to write a comment I am somehow "kicked out" so then I just give up. Well, it happened again, and I'm not going to let it lick me! The enemy does not want any kind of powerful transformation in Christ. That's too bad, because Jesus is with me in this and I can feel a new change coming! 🙂
The words in the prayer were words that I always wanted to say but couldn't voice. I could feel the weight of insecurity lift as I prayed. I know for sure that I will come back to this prayer many times. Even if these thoughts that I write are random, I love to be able to express what is going on my heart. Much love to all the beautiful siestas on this blog! May you all be blessed in this journey!
Heather
38
Married
Bellingham, WA
Boy it never ceases to amaze me that when Satan knows you are working on an issue he puts you in the fire to test your resolve.
As stated in a previous post I have recently gone back to work part-time in a hair salon. This morning as I got ready for work and on the way there I repeatedly reminded myself that in Christ I am clothed in strength and dignity for whatever this day might bring. I arrived feeling strong and courageous ready for anything.
I was not at work a half hour before I was put to the test, however. Because of a misunderstanding on my part and a failure to communicate the process for payment on management’s part I discovered that I had not properly paid for a couple of services I have received since I have been working there. I felt totally humiliated but told myself it was merely a misunderstanding and not intentional on my part and all I had to do was make it right and be done with it.
So the mature adult woman of 59 went to the young stylist of 23 to do just that. As I opened my mouth to explain what had happened and properly pay her, that little girl inside of me that cannot bear to have anyone think badly of her and always has to do what is right in order to feel lovable and acceptable (OK about herself) started to cry like a child, which was even more embarrassing and made me feel even more foolish. The part in the book where Beth talks about when confronted with our insecurities we feel either fearful or tearful so resonated with me because it is where I still find myself so often When I first discovered what had happened my imagination envisioned that I must have been the topic of discussion in the salon. But because of the loss of control over my emotions when I felt wounded and vulnerable, I really did give them something to talk about causing me more shame and humiliation. Thus I was on the vicious cycle of feeling insecure, giving in to the overwhelming emotions I felt, causing me further humiliation, causing me to feel more foolish. Fortunately, I called a halt to the spiral and reasoned that there was nothing I could have done differently to avoid what had happened. I could not know what was not communicated to me and was finally able to let it go. But only after a couple of hours of feeling emotionally overwhelmed and feeling weepy and continually reminding myself I was clothed in strength and dignity even though I did not feel like it. But I must tell you that praying, quoting scripture, or reminding myself that I was clothes in strength and dignity in the midst of feeling so emotionally overwhelmed was the furthest thing from my mind. In the midst of it all I could do was attempt to regain some semblance of control before I could think rationally enough to resume reminding myself whose I am, and how he has me covered in strength and dignity. I remind myself the process of ridding myself of my insecurities has begun and that is what is important, not that I let my emotions get the best of me once again.
Zdenka
59
Divorced
Niceville, FL
Read through the book twice, and each time I have skipped chapter 9.
I have entered into a new phase of my life and for the first time I find myself lost and anxious to the point of paralization.
Do I really know God or just how to serve Him and do things for Him? It is all very confusing to me because of my strick background. I find it all too hard to cope with right now. Major crisis of faith point.
All my "defaults" of coping mechanisms are kicking in. I am never this person – first time in my life. Please pray for me.
Katie
48
Single/Divorced
Dallas, TX
While I was reading Chapter 9 I just had an overwhelming desire to thank the Lord for Beth Moore and her ministry. The Lord has used Beth mightily in my life. Through her God has led me to His Word and I am on my way to healing and wholeness.
Melanie
Married
31
TN
Beth,
I can't thank you enough for the words you wrote under God's direction and inspiration. On the day I read this chapter, I woke up with a cold and called in sick to work. My husband was at work and my kids at their grandparents' house. So, I had the house to myself to read and pray to God.
I cried so much as I read because I truly felt God's hand. He has been so patient with my insecurity. I have lived in constant fear for most of my life (fear of failing, fear of rejection, fear of never being 'enough') and God gave me peace. I realized that I needed to confess my sins of comparing myself to others (which is really just tearing them down to make myself feel better!) and of making everything a competition.
I feel like a huge weight has been lifted and that I really can be free from this heavy weight that has constantly been on my heart. Praise the Lord, Thank you!
Melanie
"Melanie is clothed with STRENGTH and DIGNITY" – all because of the grace of an Almighty and Merciful God
http://melscoffeebreak.blogspot.com
I did chapter nine a couple of weeks ago. It was so powerful. I felt God all over it. I cried so much but I felt so much freedom. And the weeks since my battle with insecurity has come so far. God is so good!
Jen
Cincinnati OH
23
Okay, everyone! I am so excited I can hardly stand it!!!! I have not posted on the blog yet, as I have been trying to play catch up on the chapters. I am almost finished with the chapter 8 assignments.
However, this afternoon, I had such a huge breakthrough that I have to share it with someone!
I am part of a book club that meets once a month and this month (today) was my turn to host in my house. In talking with the other ladies, I discovered that 3 out of the 5 of us either couldn't make it, or hadn't read the book. So I decided to postpone the meeting until next month to give us all a chance to read/be able to come. All the ladies said that would be fine to postpone till next month.
After I talked to everyone, though, I was second, third and fourth guessing myself. I even called my husband (twice) to see if I made the right decision. I was majorly obsessing about it – even though it wasn't really a right or wrong decision and didn't really matter in the long run. So, I went to lay down for a few minutes while my kids were napping (yea for naps!) and saw my spiral (yea for spirals!) sitting on my nightstand opened to my March 1st verse:
He is your constant source of stability; he abundantly provides safety and great wisdom; he gives all this to those who fear him. (Isaiah 33:6 NET)
And here is the really cool thing – I realized I was being insecure!!! 🙂
So I was able to pray and read my spiral and some other verses that I have written down in several notebooks that I have and God gave me peace. 🙂
So, I am so excited to be taking this journey with all of you and I pray that God will be faithful to deliver us all from our insecurities and make us stable and secure in HIM!!!
Amberley
31
Married (Very Happily)
Pasco, WA
Dear Anonymous (March 11, 2010 6:42)
I am praying for you and understand how you feel. I certainly don't know all of the answers, but I encourage you to tell God all you are feeling. Just pour it out to him. As I prayed through Chapter 9, I just let out everything I had been feeling. All of the pain, anxiety, fear, unbelief, and let God have it. It's too much for you to bear alone, my dear sister. Please just give it to Him and allow Him to heal you.
with love and prayers,
Melanie
I'm packing for Toronto too! 7 of us from Syracuse, NY (4-5 hours) are heading out in the morning. Can't wait for a good Word! Saw you on Life Today this morning and got my "appetizer".
Angela
41
Married 3 kids
Syracuse, NY
Nicole
29
Single
Maryland (via Houston, Texas)
I just had to leave a post because I bought the book on CD Saturday and was done with it by Sunday. I'm mad, ticked, angry and all the stuff in-between. It's Thursday and I have listened to the book twice through already. I just have one question for BM: How did you get inside my head?
Thanks for a great listen/read.
God Bless You and Your Ministry.
I have been reading the book, but didn't know about the blog. I just finished doing the chapter where I prayed through so much stuff in my life. This has been exactly what I have needed.
Brittney
Pflugerville, TX
20s
Married
1. It hurt, but a good hurt. I cried a lot… I'm starting the process although I know I have a little ways… I haven't prayed like that in a long time and it was definitely needed.
2. "For the Lord your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory."
Deut. 20:4 NIV
"Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always."
Psalm 105:4
"Seek the LORD and his strength;
seek his presence continually!"
Psalm 105:4 ESV
"My flesh and my heart fail;But God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."
Psalm 73:26
"You give me your shield of victory; you stoop down to make me great."
2 Sam. 22:36 NIV
i can hardly wait to get going on chapter 9! the last few days, i've felt very led to journal my insecurites and see what i learn…both from them and from God. seriously…it may take an entire spiral! but i've started and will continue to work on it this week. does it count if no one ever sees it???
Wow, what a powerful and moving prayer. Each paragraph seemed to have at least one portion that was directed at me.
Sometimes a little daunting. Sometimes a little painful. But always healing and restoring.
I was able to face some insecurities about myself that I have been much too insecure to admit!
Thank you Beth for being such an amazing, anointed and willing servant of God.
Love you so!
Beth Herring
married,
47
Oak Grove, La.