Good morning, Dear Siestas! I so hope you’ve experienced God’s presence and sustaining power this week and that maybe you get a day off tomorrow like I do. Melissa flew in yesterday so I have that darling thing studying about 10 feet from me this very second. Her man flies in tonight and they’ll be with us for the next week. She does have her own office but, living so far apart, when she’s in town we always work in my office. Believe it or not, we really do get a lot accomplished and feed off of each other’s research. Last time she was here, we spent the whole time outlining the study (and the Book of) James. Right now, she’s sitting over there translating the Book from Greek into English on her own. Needless to say, I’m not doing that but I am glad she is. I’m doing other things to get myself as familiar with it as possible and it is already clear to me that I’m about to have a major spiritual overhaul. I hear the sound of a heavenly jackhammer in the distance. By mid-September, God willing, I hope to start Week One, Day One. He has already begun preparing both of us by testing just how willing we are to count tribulation a joy. (That’s the trouble with Bible study. God has a particular affinity for seeing us actually apply the Scriptures we’re learning. If we don’t, He finally just quits attending the study. I don’t mean to say He’d ever leave His children but I do think He can withdraw a sense of His Presence and anointing in our corporate midst if we never let His Word get to our hearts and real lives.)
The reason I’m writing you this morning is because I had an experience a little while ago that really touched my heart. Every summer about this time, the city coordinators for all the LifeWay women’s events for the next year meet for several days of training in Nashville. This gathering is not only for the city coordinators for the Living Proof Live events. It also includes those taught by Priscilla (who I love), Kay (who I love), Vicki Courtney (who I love – my word, we grew up in ministry together although I’m admittedly several years her senior), Angela Thomas (who I don’t know as well personally but love), and Angie Smith (who I know and love mainly through her blog, her book, and through Melissa who went to India with her for Compassion International last year). When the LifeWay event team first began these trainings, Travis and we teachers each greeted them by speaker phone as they met together in one conference room. Nowadays we get to join them by Skype, meaning, to state the obvious, we get to actually see each other.
For some reason, as I’m reflecting on it, a lump is welling in my throat. It’s an odd thing for a sanguine to be called into the seclusion that writing demands. It is so often the women we serve that God uses to really inspire and motivate me to go beyond a private devotional life with Him. It’s running into someone at Starbucks or on the paper goods’ aisle in Kroger. It’s crossing paths with someone at the airport. It’s opening our Bibles together in tandem on Tuesday nights. It’s staff prayer time on Mondays at noon. It’s church on Sundays. It’s community that God most often uses to keep me stirred up to serve and hang in there with ministry. That’s why I have pictures on my desk and nearby bookshelves of small groups of women that are never any further than an eye-shot from what’s going on at my computer. Here are just four of them that I glance at all the time.
Each of those pictures mean something specific to me. For instance, the third frame from the left depicts a group of women who bonded together over the loss of dearly loved children. Can you imagine? They came together in a support system not only to relate through their loss but to agree to do everything they could to glorify God in the grief process and beyond. I still hear from them from time to time. The frame on the far right depicts a small group of women soldiers in Iraq who do the Bible studies together. As I study, I often glance up at the pictures in my office and ask myself, “Would you have the courage to say those words to them, too? Would these truths also apply to them in their pain? In their circumstances? In their danger? Because, if not, don’t say it at all. If God’s promises don’t apply to them, too, or if you have no regard for the seriousness of their estate, then shut the book and go home.”
Oh, that we’d never forget – Oh, Lord, that I’d never forget – that we don’t serve the page. We serve people. We serve the Author. There is no such thing as ministry without community. We can’t love God and despise people.1 John 4:20-21 cries out with conviction, “If anyone says, ‘I love God,’ yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. And He has given us this command: Whoever loves God must also love his brother.”
None of us need to hear that echoed more often than those of us who are vulnerable to constant offense in ministry. If we don’t think God is harder on us who presume to teach, we’ve missed James 3:1. If we’re going to be worth our salt in ministry, we better be willing to ask ourselves hard questions constantly. We must be intolerant of our own cold-heartedness and cynicism. But that’s really not what I came on here to say.
I came on here to say that it’s an unspeakable privilege to get to be part of a large community of women – far, far beyond Siestaville – spread abroad in our generations who love the Word because they love the Savior. It’s not about teachers. It’s not about denominations. It’s about a move of the Spirit on the hearts of so many who have come to love Christ all the more because His words became spirit and life to them. It’s a miracle really. A true wonder. We are different because of Jesus. We are different because we believed His Word. When we quit being different, we quit being disciples.
Anyway, I have a new picture today. While we were on Skype for our conference call this morning, I told them I’d give anything to have those faces in a frame right in front of me this year. And so they clicked a picture that very second and, thanks to technology, I already have it. Here’s a small group of women willing to believe God to do something eternal, something life-altering, in their cities in 2011 and, yes, even use them to do it.
And there are so many others out there across this globe who are willing to believe that their weaknesses are not strong enough to keep God from using them.
For some reason, I am amazed by that again today.
Really cannot want on the James study. Will be wonderful with both of you working on it together. Have fun in Richmond. Blessing to all.
i am just exicted about the new study on James. i can’t wait. right now I am teaching the new ‘breaking free’ on sunday nights. I am doing ‘Daniel’ on my own. (just gotta say, I LOVE IT!) and listen to “Jesus, the One and Only” in the car everyday. I just have to keep Jesus in my head at all times. I am so thankful for all the awesome resources you have available. They have been so instrumental in my walk and have helped keep my hunger for Him fed.
You never speak anything but the Word and for that I love you Beth!
Beth Herring
Love it Beth Herring, I feel the same way! It brought a smile to this Siesta picturing you doing so many studies at one time. I always considered myself a “Martha” until one day it dawned on me if Jesus was in my house (physcially) my house would be in a worse mess because I would rather be sitting listening to Him then washing dishes, doing housework etc (all things I love) and then it hit me that’s how Mary felt!
I would rather be with Jesus! Isn’t It wonderful!!!!
oh, yes – i would rather be with Jesus too my friend!
Ditto Beth Herring!
🙂
Lessons learned on Love
See how great a love the Father has bestowed on us, that we would be called children of God;
1 John 3:1a
Today, on what would have been Ryan’s 4-month old birthday, I was reflecting on what God has taught me through this tragic situation. Not that there isn’t anything I wouldn’t trade for our precious grandson Ryan’s life, but as Romans says, “God causes all things to work together for good to those who love Him…” So, I try to find any speck of good that can come from an innocent’s baby’s life.
God taught me a tremendous lesson on just how much he loves us – all of His children, but, in particular – loves me.
I never was able to experience a “mother’s love” as I never had the honor of having children. When I married Randy, I “inherited”, of sorts, his two sons. This has been a huge bonus but I never expected to fall in love the way I have. When Randy’s youngest son, Wayne, told us he and Sheridan were going to have a baby, something inside of me began to grow. Not only was God giving me a love for my new daughter-in-law, He allowed me to experience the special bond of a “grandmother’s” love – again something I never expected having skipped over the mother stage. But that is just like God, isn’t it? He can do things greater than we ever imagined or even thought possible.
As soon as we were told about Ryan, the love in my heart grew – and it grew very quickly. Even though I didn’t know Ryan, would not see Ryan for at least 7 more months, I loved him. I loved him very deeply. The love I had for him got stronger and stronger as each passing month meant we were one month closer to his due date and getting to meet him in person! I was so beside myself with excitement, I could hardly stand it.
Well, the due date came and went. I was at our church’s women’s retreat on little Ryan’s due date and had my cell phone on and in my pocket the entire weekend just waiting for that special phone call….another week went by and a date was set, April 22, 2010, for Sheridan to have her labor induced.
Randy and I were on vacation in Florida when the phone call came. We were grandparents of a beautiful, blond-headed, perfectly normal-looking 6 lbs. baby boy named Ryan Wesley Gluff! Wow, I could hardly wait to meet the little fellow.
Only two days later, we were awakened by an early morning phone call. It was early enough for me to know something was wrong. I hear the one-sided conversation of Randy saying, “What!? What do you mean he’s gone? He didn’t make it…he’s gone?…..Oh, Wayne, I’m so sorry…” That is all I remember of the conversation and all I really needed to know for the moment.
My world turned dark and grey, just like the brewing thunder storms on the Florida coast where we were “vacationing” (honestly how can one “vacation” after learning the devastating news of losing your first grandchild; of hearing your children heartbroken over the phone unable to complete one sentence due to the sobs?) I knew life would never be the same.
I first laid my eyes on Ryan in a shoe-boxed size casket all wrapped in white satin. Randy and I walked into the viewing room –we were alone. I looked over at the tiny box and saw a beautiful blond baby boy. My knees went weak and I thought all the air had just been sucked right out of the room. Randy rushed passed me, put his large-looking hands right on Ryan’s little tummy saying, “I was so looking forward to being a grandpa…”
As we grieved over the next few weeks, months, perhaps it will be even years, I realized that God had given me a grandmother’s heart – the next best thing to a mother’s heart. And, if I could love Ryan that much – a baby whom I had never met, then how much more God loved us.
I loved Ryan, not because of what he did; I loved him because he was my family. Just as God loves us, not because of what we do or don’t do; He loves us because He created us and we are His family. 1 John 3:1 all of a sudden became so clear in my mind. How great a love the Father has given and He is honored to call us His children – as I was so honored to be Ryan’s grandmother. That kind of love is undeserved, unearned, and unconditional. Anytime I feel alone or left out, I just have remember how loved I am. With God’s unconditional love, how could I possibly let insecurity, doubt, fears, or anything interfere with my life?
We ARE His children and He loves much more than a grandmother, or even a mother, loves her precious babe. Wow, now that is something to be grateful for, wouldn’t you say?!
Becky, Life is not always fair nor is it easy.
Jesus is always there
In the Midst
of what we are doing, what we are living
and what we may be feeling.
He never leaves or forsakes us.
…
It takes time to heal when our hearts are broken
It takes trust to pray through our pain
It takes God wrapping His arms of love around us
to pick us up again.
It is a day by day process and as time passes
the memory will always be there
But, we find ourselves growing closer to God
Rejoicing in our faith and giving Him glory.
I will pray for you and your family. in Christ
What a beautiful testimony of His love that you’ve so eloquently expressed. You, dear sister, and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
May you be held near to the Father’s heart today.
Patti Hayes
oh, my precious sister Becky. I just can’t even imagine this. i am a “nana” 6 times over and this just breaks my heart into pieces! i am praying for you my sweet friend. praying that God will just continue to minister deeply to you and your family. that He will just pour out grace upon grace to you all.
know that you are in my prayers…
Becky, Dearest one, you have my heartfelt prayers for the healing of your broken grandmothers heart. The insight God has miraculously given you is heaven-sent to bring you and others out of the pit of despair. My prayers go with your adult children in the deep loss of their first born. We went through such a tragedy just last year with my cousins first born grandchild, still born boy, full term. Now, one year later beautiful little Estelle has come into our world and parents and both sets of first time grandparents elated. She is perfect in every way and has brought much healing to hurting hearts. I’m so glad you know first hand of the love of our Heavenly Father, and in hope and faith you can move forward to a brighter tomorrow.
Lovingly in Him,
Pam H.
Love and Prayers,
Pam H.
I’m lifting you and your family in prayer, Becky. A pain I have not felt personally, so I cannot toally understand. But your words of love and hope touched my spirit so.
God bless you for being willing to step out and share these words.
Becky,
Thank you for sharing your story. Having experienced the loss of my own sons, I can say I don’t know of any greater pain than the death of a child. What a beautiful way to put things back into perspective, we do have so much to be grateful for. Thank you for the reminder, “How great a love the Father has given and He is honored to call us His children.” Thank you again, I will keep you and your family in prayer.
P.S.
I see you are from Indy–what part?
Pam – I’m in the south side of Indy…how about you?
Becky-I live an 1 1/2 away but work at Methodist Hospital. Would be great if we could meet some time.
Becky,
You and your family are in my prayers. It is so hard to understand things like this, but Ryan is in the arms of Jesus and you will see him again. May God comfort you greatly!!!
I laughed at the part about the “heavenly jackhammer.” I’ve always said you have to read the book of James with a box of bandaids handy (the large wound size!) Then when everyone kept saying it was their favorite book I wondered if I were the only one who always feels convicted. Anyway, I certainly expect to dive into it again as soon as you two get it to press.
You know, actually my favorite Books of the Bible are the ones that convict me… but then I’ve never been accused of being in “the vast majority”. Grin.
Beth, this morning in church our pastor was preaching on Nehemiah 8:1,2+ … I couldn’t help but think of you. I’m not looking at my Bible, so that could be dangerous, but the people were asking Ezra to “bring on the book” … bring on the Word! He wasn’t asking if they wanted to hear … they were asking! So, as you are preparing for this new study … I just have one word … Bring on the Book … Bring on the Word!!! Can’t wait to see what God lays on your heart.
Love you all.
attending the living proof live in richmond this upcoming weekend and cannot wait! a group from my church is going. just finished the new revelation study and was so blessed by it. thank you beth for your work and how God uses you to reach us and help us grow in the Lord.
Tears are rolling down my face as I type this comment…I am in the picture of the grieving mommas. I came here…to your blog today seeking. Feeling sad and forgotten, feeling like my boys who only lived a short time on this earth had been forgotten. And there it was…a reminder that they have NOT been forgotten. That they continue to make an impact and I sit here…tears rolling down my face…proud as a peacock to have been chosen to birth all FIVE of my babies…the three I am raising here on earth and the two waiting for me in Heaven. I will go to bed tonight praising the One who gave and the One who took away. To Him alone be the Glory. Thank you. Thank you for taking our story to heart and allowing it to make a difference.
You matter profoundly, Kristy. Your boys matter. I’m so sorry for the heart wrenching lose you have suffered. May God powerfully bless and comfort you ’til the very moment you and all your children are reunited.
praying that God will continue to carry you my friend.
Honoring your boys today as well Kristy. Their footprints will forever be on your heart. So blessed to hear you grieved with others (and still do) and for the glory of God!! you are awesome!!!!
May God richly bless you and your family!
Kristy,
My heart aches for you as I read your post. I too have lost two beautiful little boys (twins). One was stillborn at birth and my other son lived to be 6 years old. Through all of the heartache and the many painful years later, I too can finally rest in the arms of Jesus knowing we will someday meet again. What a beautiful way to put it, “praising the One who gave and the One who took away.” Thank you for sharing your story.
Praying for Kristy & Becky,
Having a son in heaven myself I understand their pain.Especially that of Kristy and feeling like no one else remembers your child. But our heavenly Father does. I am thankful for finally being in the place that I can “Praise the One who gives and takes away. Blessed be the Name of the LORD.”
For Becky having recently become a grandmother myself I am so sorry for you missing the joy of that and remembered the time that my own mother had to hear the very words that you heard. I know that your heart is broken and will be for some time. You will always miss this child. May God give you another grandchild to love but he/she will never replace this grandchild. He will always have his own special place in your heart.
One glorious day we will all be reunited with our loved ones gone before us.
What a wonderful reminder to all of us who dare to teach others in this wild world of women. Such a good reminder of why study & honesty is important in our efforts. It is so good to serve a God who brings others along our way to inspire and share our work. What a blessing to share your work with your daughters.
Thanks so much for work. It’s incredible how God uses women we’ve never met to speak into our lifes. Your efforts have spoke into mine many times! Looking forward to the new study.
Just really appreciated the comments regarding the women soldiers in Iraq – so refreshing to know someone thinks of them daily and cares that messages need to be universal and one size fits all not just applicable for the US or Americans or those living in relative safety! Bless you for seeing that part of God’s heart!
Way back in 1970 it was the book of James that caught my attention on a jet, me flying back home to So. Cal from a wild summer which laid my marriage waste. I found I was the real phony, and I wasn’t standing up! Every word of James spoke to me as God was wooing me back, his errant child. I cried my eyes out, between reading the holy words. I had alot to face up to and alot to live down. My high school sweetheart divorced me upon my return. He decided repentance wasn’t good enough, and he couldn’t find it in his heart to forgive me. Fast forward 40 years – I have been married 39 years to a Christian man who took a big chance on a 22 year old divorced adultress. God made all things new in time. We have a beautiful family, our son and daughter in law have given us 3 gorgeous little princesses. We have loved and served the LORD faithfully in every ministry in church from bed-babies to Senior Citizens. Am I looking forward to your study in James? You betcha! I am redeemed by the power of the blood of the Lamb, and no scarlet A is on my shoulder. God knew the way I would take, and He’s been my glorious “with”, never to leave me! I’ve lived this: “Count it all joy!”
I am so thrilled to be a part of the ride with Siestaville as we pray you and Melissa through to mining rich jewels out of one of the most practical books in the Bible, pertaining to real life and living. To think Melissa can read and translate the text from Greek is so mind-boggling to me! What a gift to us all…her education and “brain-power”! I just can’t wait for James…
Love you so in Him~
Pam H.
Wow, Pam, thank you for your honesty. Your story touched my heart. Isn’t amazing how God can so completely transform our lives? Although my story is a little different, I too was His errant child, and I discovered He loved me enough to woo me back to His arms, where I can know complete love. We are redeemed, washed clean, new creatures in Him!
Karene, also in So. Cal.
Yes. Yes. Yes. 100% Yes! That’s all. Just…..Yes! I love you so much!
What a timely message for me, as I expand the focus of my own writing intentions. And I love the photo. I especially love the expression on the woman in the front with the lovely white blouse on. Her face radiates joy. To consider what brings her that great joy is beautiful!
Blessings,
Toni
Precious words, Miss Beth! I’ve felt like I was in a study desert of sorts lately. I really needed a different perspective as to WHY I do what I do.
I have wondered just what it is God is doing with me (during this strange wilderness experience).
My heart is longing to follow Him even when it’s not the same ministry trail I’m used to.
{My pastor husband has not served a full-time pastorate in over 2 years…..it’s affected our whole family!}
Still waiting to see where it is God wants us to be.
What I hear from your post is…..STAY FOCUSED on what’s what!
I can’t wait for the study of James! Seems lately everything I read or turn to has a verse from James. Thank you all for the work you are doing. I’m keeping you in my prayers.
Our ladies are starting “Wising Up” tonight and we are all so excited and ready to be back in Bible study.
I may just have to take a picture of our group tonight and send it to you! 🙂 We used to meet in our church library and had just a handful of women, now we have moved to the church sanctuary. I can’t wait to see how many God sends our way tonight. I mentioned our study on facebook and invited any who would like to come and I had several friends who said they’d come after seeing that invitation. I love that we have several area churches represented.
I am the facilitator and would appreciate your prayers. We had technical problems several times during our last study. That always makes me a little nervous.
Love & blessings from Oklahoma!
Praying for you, Valerie, and your group as it meets tonight, that God will meet you there and speak to each and every heart.
Your “Okie” friend
Margie
Thank you, Margie!
Our first night of Bible study went very well and everyone loved it.
I appreciate your prayers very much.
I’m still amazed how God brought us together in Houston that Saturday afternoon after the Scripture Memorization Event. I think of you and your husband often and hope you’re doing well.
Love ya!
Valerie
I am currently in the middle of teaching James in our adult ladies class, and it is because that is where God wanted me, so I am dragging my ladies through it with me. It took me forever to even get past the first verse. James a bondservant of God and the Lord Jesus Christ. God took me back to Exd 21:1-6 to show me what a bondservant was. One little phrase floored me vrs 6 and he shall serve him forever. That’s the kind of bondservant I want to be, the one that holds the tongue, count’s trials as joys, knowing that every good and every perfect gift is from the Father of Lights, and that His will for me is to be perfect, complete and lacking nothing, discerning what true religion is, showing no partiality. I could go on and on. Can’t wait for this study to come out. In the mean time, could you come teach my class as a trial run? Praying for you and Melissa, thank you for your bondservant attitude that we all get to see.
Sallye
“Like”
Dear Siestas and Siesta mama
My dear baby sister had a liver transplant on thursday of last week. She is doing great but has a long way to full recovery. She was so bad that we thought God was going to take her home on Monday of last week then he saved her life on Thursday. We serve a great and mighty God. We covet your prayers for her continued recovery. Beth, I feel like I know you personnaly through this blog and your Bible Studies. The women of our church have one or two bible studies going all the time. Love, Love, Love you. – mj, Dallas, Texas
Beth, I want to take a moment and say thank you for leading a life that is worthy of your calling. I wish I could take a photo of all our wonderful ladies who have been freed and molded into Christ-like daughters as they labored through your Bible studies. In fact a dear friend and I were discussing how her summer Bible study was going. She lead the Esther study with a handful of teen girls. She had gone through the study the previous fall, and then had a feet-knocked-out-from-under-you experience. She said it was great to go through the study again to see how God had prepared her for such a time as that before it happened. Her life made her come to terms with “If, then God period!” I have had a simliar experience right after I did the study Living Beyond Yourself. And the tools I learned equipped me to be victorious. I did that study again with a different group of ladies, at a different stage in my life, with new expreiences under my belt and I still learned something. Also along the way, I gave God the glory for bringing me through a horrible battle victoriously. So again thank you, thank you for loving God and doing what He has called you to do with all of your being–heart, soul, mind, and strength.
Our women’s group is also studying Esther right now.
It is so exciting. We are a small group, but everyone has been nice about sharing when it comes to answering the personal questions…they really have opened up.
We had a Esther cake and I bought some give away gifts like jewelry with a queens crown on it. We have had such a wonderful time in the Lord.
Beth,
I am so happy that you are coming to Columbus OH next year. I’ve been anxiously waiting for you to come to the Buckeye state and know that it will be a great time! There are lots of us women here in Ohio that LOVE us some Beth Moore!
Love you Siesta Mama!
Kimberly
PS: My husband and I had a great time in Lexington KY! Thank you for being so willing to allow God to use you! ;o)
Dear sweet Beth,
My heart was touched as I read your post. I am so blessed by your heart and wanting a fresh living word for all of us who are blessed by your teaching. I pray that whatever you are walking through right now in this life as you prepare, the Lord would be bigger, that His word more alive and powerful, and His wonderful Presence would saturate you even more. Blessings of His love, joy and peace be upon you as you take yourself away with Him and please know we are praying even when you feel alone!!!
ps. thankful that the Lord blessed you with 2 wonderful daughters who are so different but helpful in all you are!! Translating Greek??? what a blessing!!!
It’s been 10 years since I did a study on just Chapter 3 of James. It changed my life. I walked into the women’s Bible study the first night and told them I resigned as their teacher because I was not sure I would pass the “judge more strictly” test. They quickly reminded me of the next words, “We all stumble in many ways.” and did not let me step down. The next few weeks as I studied for the lessons changed my life.
Recently, I read the entire book for a month everyday, and in one of my “Ponderings” I wrote during that time I suggested that we should all put the full armor of God on our tongues. The breast plate of righteousness in place weighing it down as the sword of the Spirit pokes us in the roof of our mouths every time we want to say something ungodly. Can you just imagine!
Thank you, Beth & Melissa, for following the call God has placed on your hearts. I’m lifting you in prayer.
ooooo, Beth, I can HARDLY wait for your study on James! I haven’t studied many books, like I have studied that one, so thus far it is my FAVORITE! If I am in a funk and just want to open up The Word for a pick me up, that is THE book I flip to! Our series on James was called “This Is How We Do It” (life)….and one of the FUNNEST parts was when our leader walked onto the stage to the tune of “THIS IS HOW WE DO IT” by Montell Jordan! Yep, so anyway…I am stoked!
Thanks for the warning about cynicism and cold-heartedness in ministry… I needed to hear that today…
Beth,
I would just like to thank you for all that you have done in my life. I know that God has used your studies to lead me through so many difficult times, and I only wish that we could sit together and share a cup of coffee to hear how you are doing. Though I have yet to hear you speak (at least in person–videos I have), the studies that I have done have led me to believe that we share some similarites in our past. I am still walking through those emotions and feelings and God has used you to give me hope that there IS healing…especially when daily I feel like this is where I will always stand. I am in the thick of your Psalms of Ascent study and this morning the most important truth hit me over the head from Psalm 131- that God is here, that I am NOT forgotten, and that he WILL be my comfort. So many verses in the Old Testament are new to me. I actually have a letter written, I wrote it after I read So Long Insecurity, but don’t know where to send it. I am sharing more than I normally would, knowing that others can read, but just have been itching to have some communication, or at least just let you know that you are loved by so many. Thank you for making me feel normal 🙂 Have a wonderfully Blessed Day.
Beth, Melissa and Amandaand all Siesta’s
I’m really excited, I am getting ready to lead my first Beth Moore women’s class.. We are doing Stepping Up. I have taken many classes and teach 5th and 6th grade SS. I’m scared and excited all in one . I have about 2 weeks before class starts. I have been reading throught the leaders guide , paln to go ahead and do the first lesson and read the psalms that to study covers.. Also praying for guidance and for all the women who may be coming. Any tips , send them on and pray.
Love and Blessings Siesta Stephanie
Stephanie, you are going to love Stepping Up! I know you said you’ll be starting in two weeks, but if you’ll post an exact date and time, I’ll write it in my prayer journal. I’ll go ahead and start praying now, but there is something comforting and reassuring about knowing that at precisely the moment you take the first step out on a limb, someone is praying for you by name. I, and I’m sure others in the Siestaville community would like to be that someone for you.
Blessings to you, dear sister.
Patti Hayes
Patty , Thank you so much for the prayers. I already feel Better I was reading the leaders manual and the most profound verse. “Finish the work, so that your eagar willingness to do it may be matched by your completion of ot, according th your means. For if the willingness is there , the gift is acceptable according to what one has,not according to what he does not have. ” 2 Cor 8:11-12.
I’ll be praying for you Stephanie.
I started leading our ladies Bible studies about six or seven years ago.
I remember how scared and nervous I was. We started out with just a handful of ladies who met in our church library and now we meet in our church sanctuary and even have several ladies attend from different area churches.
I still get butterflies each time we start a new study, but it’s amazing how God has helped me become more confident through the years.
God will bless you because you are being faithful and willing to serve.
One thing I do for our ladies is I have the answers filled in the blanks for them on the listening guides I watch the lessons ahead of time and fill them in.
Seems like so many of them were so worried that they’d missed a blank, they’d whisper to each other and would miss parts of the lesson. That’s just one helpful thing and one that they all tell me they appreciate.
I’ll be praying!
The Book of James is going to be my next solo inductive study and hopefully, like I did for Phillipians, I will be able to write my own Bible study on James and lead a small group through the study. I had such an amazing time teaching my small women’s group in Montana. Now that my man is retired from the Air Force and we moved back to Pennsylvania, I have been praying to find a new church that meets all our needs and I can continue with my study. As always not my will but His, He hasn’t lead me astray, I am just waiting for instructions and some guidance from the one I love, up above. I will keep you posted.
Andrea Porter
Pennsylvania
I will be praying for you as you write the words God tells you to write for the new James study. Thank you for your willingness to serve not only the God of the universe, but to share your insights and experiences with women who desperately are seeking God. Thank you for all your hard work. I pray that God will bless you as you work to share His love. I can’t wait to see the new study.
Kristina
Just praying that some of you could join me in pleading with our Loving Abba Father to spare the life if it his perfect will of my dearest friend Kris Aring in Clayton California. She just discovered that her cancer is back for the 3rd.time in 3 years. Her last remmision only lasted 8 weeks and this time it is in her liver. She is a wife and Mommy of 3. She loves Jesus with all her life. I have no words. I am pleading all who can pray; if not for prayer and God’s amazing love this news would be too heard to take.Thank you Siestas.
I saw your post today and prayed for your friend. I know how hard it is to have someone you love dearly, fight cancer. My friend Dawn has breast cancer, she has been in remission twice, but now the cancer is back and in her lungs. She has 3 children also, please pray for her, I am so happy that she has accepted Christ as her personal savior. She is now on chemo every other week too, yuck. Please pray for her too, I will pray for your friend Kris. Bless You. I pray God shows us both a miracle.
shelley paden,
i have joined with you in praying for Kris.hear us cry out, Lord Jesus, and heal her if it be your perfect will.
“Even now my witness is in heaven;
my advocate is on high.
My intercessor is my friend
as my eyes pour out tears to God;
on behalf of a man he pleads with God
as a man pleads for his friend.”
Job 16:19-21
i lost a dear friend 2 months ago, and clung to this verse through it all. and though i am still so very sad, i saw sweet blessings along the way that i KNOW were because he was merciful.He is faithful.
xoxo, rene
Praying for you, Shelley, and your dear friend, Kris.
Patti Hayes
We had some bad storms here in Michigan and a long stretch without power and I was so thankful to be reminded that God’s sustaining power is reliable and will never go out! I was so blessed by the whole post that I’m passing it along to several women at my church who are stepping out in ministry ( in spite of our weaknesses), to remind us what an incredible privilege we have to serve the community of women God is drawing together to drink from His well. As we love God & His word, allowing it to transform us through the power of His Spirit, He will faithfully pour out His love through us to the women He’s bringing together – to “do something eternal, something life-altering, in our cities in 2011”. I feel so blessed that the Spirit has moved so powerfully in my life to reveal our God who truly is truth and life! Not only does He reveal Himself so lovingly and so personally to each of us, He equips us with His incomparably great power and gives us the opportunity to partner with Him in drawing others to His life-giving love & truth!
I’m so humbled and expectant of what God is going to do in and through us as we seek Him wholeheartedly and pour out His love on those weary women in need of a fresh word and the unconditional love of their Father, ALL for His eternal glory!
As much as I needed a break when we finished the Ruth Study, I cannot wait to be meeting with my home girls on Monday night. We decided to do your Esther Study, I attended the sessions as they were filmed, I can’t wait to go through the workbook. Our group spans the ages of 24 to 87. Blessings to you.
Your quote on serving women who live with pain and danger:
“Would you have the courage to say those words to them, too? Would these truths also apply to them in their pain? In their circumstances? In their danger? Because, if not, don’t say it at all. If God’s promises don’t apply to them, too, or if you have no regard for the seriousness of their estate, then shut the book and go home.
Oh, that we’d never forget – Oh, Lord, that I’d never forget – that we don’t serve the page. We serve people. We serve the Author.” Bless you, Beth for your humility and wisdom. Can I create a fridge magnet with these words? I need to read it every single day.
With Love and much gratitude!
Mary
Nova Scotia
Beth, I just want to say thank you for all your work. My womens group,down under New Zealand, have just about finished Esther. I LOVE LOVE LOVED it (prev psalms of accent). I am excited to wake up in the morning & read ‘What Esther did next’!! I am telling my daughter all about it as I learn. She, at 11 1/2 is enjoying her time with me relaying what I had learned. I hope it sticks to her soul!
On a more personal note, I find my ‘walk’ sometimes (metaphoricly speaking) like running on the wrong gas. After my time in Esther, I feel like I am running on 6 cylinders & have petrol in my tank. The good stuff, like I struck gold! What is it the Beverly Hillbillies used to say..Gold..black GOLD. Esther makes me feel like I struck GOLD!
If it wasn’t for you & yr teaching..i’m not sure if i’d be running on all cylinders. Be encouraged. Be inspired..you reach us across the other side of the world!
Thank you Lord for Beth
Thank you Beth for all you do
Helen Bakker
I am so excited there is a new study coming. I can’t wait. I have done all your studies at least once and some twice. I just finished up the revised A Women’s Heart. What a blessing it was.
This post is full of interesting thoughts! Melissa is with you all this week, that is a blessing:) I’ll be praying for you and Melissa tackling James, and the pre-teachings the Lord is discipling you both with…those pictures of those women must be inspiring, wow, all walks of life. It makes sense what you are saying, ministry is loving God and not just that, loving people-people who have issues, aren’t nice all the time, and have very serious griefs and realities to deal with. I pray that God would use those ladies in that last picture for something of eternal value in 2011!:) What you said about James 3:1, that is sobering. Teachers have the greater accountability…really, what a Christian says about God, His Word, we have to know what we are talking about, and I know I have a waaay long way to go. I pray for you all, those who have the privilege and accountability to God to serve so many in teaching ministries.
Blessings to you today, ((HUGS)), Love in HIM, He will accomplish what concerns you:)
katiegfromtennessee
Enjoy the time with Melissa! We recently took our firstborn to college and I am missing her TERRIBLY!! We talk and text every day, but it’s still not the same… Excuse my whining!!
Dear Beth,
Thank you so much for faithfully serving first and foremost our Lord and Saviour for all these years,but also for serving and blessing so many women including myself! I was so honored to be able to meet you in the Denver Airport in June. Thank you for taking time to sign my book and take a picture with me and my friend. I am looking forward to seeing you in Richmond this weekend on my birthday! Will be praying for God’s annointing on you and am also praying for all the women who will be there! I also am looking forward to starting your study “The Inheritance” in September!
With a Grateful Heart,
Heidi
Would you pray for me and my family? Just yesterday, I received a diagnosis of breast cancer… a road I’m all too familiar with having walked it with many of my friends in years prior. I cannot explain the peace I have, safe to say the prayers of the saints that have generously paved the way for understanding. Thank you.
peace~elaine
Elaine, I’m so sorry to hear this! We will be praying for you. Please keep us posted on how you’re doing.
That is exactly why I just adore this ministry! : )
Ooooh! James! I can’t wait. I just finished Session 2 of your Revelation study – love it!
So sorry to be off topic, but I just learned the true health status of my mom. I can only describe it as moderate dementia (along with other illnesses she cannot feel), she is 70 yrs old. She has never been a regular mom (compared to friends moms). She and my (late)dad have always been very dysfunctional and I have 3 dysfunctional siblings to prove it. I’ve always been the “good one” and labled the black sheep of the family because of it. My siblings are incarcerated, drug addicted, financial deadbeats, never accountable for their actions, and strong in their non-belief in our Savior. I pray for guidance in navagating the process of getting mom in a good living situtation. She thinks nothing is wrong with her and feels no physicaL pain, despite her long list of ailments.
She has always been difficult to love, as I can count on one hand the number of times she has ever (I mean EVER)called me when she didn’t have a specific need from me (even after I had to 2 babies). I would visit her every week & call her 2 – 3 times per week. I pray that God would keep me strong in doing the right thing by her.
Dearest Beth,
We are ABSOLUTELY EXCITED about Living Proof Live this Friday & Saturday in Richmond. Thank you so much for being our mentor and cheerleader for God’s Word! The 10 of us Mechanicsville gals have journeyed through 6 of your studies. You are a blessing! We will be volunteering at the event and hope to meet you! We’ll be the ones ‘glowing’ in the crowd!
In Christ’s Love, Vangie, Becky, Jen A, Jen R, Alison, Kathryn, Amy G, Amy A, Andrea, Tina
It has been such a long time since I have done any Bible study. I have a lot of making up to do. I am very excited to get started again and get caught up.
We are airing The Living Proof Live Simulcast on September 18 at our church and I am thrilled! To not only be back enjoying the spirit again, but being able to share God’s love with so many women in our church and community.
God asked me to get up in front of my church and give my testimony. I did not want to. That is just not me! I will sing all day long, but speak uh…no. I did it though and so glad I did. It was such a blessing to me and I had so many tell me how I touched them. Even men, which I was not expecting. It was recorded and is on my blog. It has much to do with you, your bible studies and even the upcoming simulcast.
I know this isn’t the subject of this entry, but I wanted to share this with you. God bless you. I appreciate you so much and admire how you let God work through you.
Blessings,
Carma
I was feeling discouraged tonight and after reading your blog, went and read the book of James. It never ceases to amaze me how when you take the time to really soak in the word of God how it strengthens and nourishes the soul. How could it not, being the very breath of God..I so love your transparency…you not only say you are our fellow sojourner, you live that way as well. Thank you for that.
Love ya Beth!
May we never stopped being amazed at what God brings to us, through His Word or through His family…
Awesome reminder of what is really important in life! Loving God, and loving others! Easy to get sidetracked and bogged down with complications of this life on earth-working through the “junk” that happens sometimes not by our choosing… Today, I choose God’s path-the path of love and forgiveness toward others. 🙂
I come and check in on this blog every once in a while, I am not as frequent as many others, and have never left a comment…but I just felt I needed to.
The part “you didn’t come on here to say” was a word from the Lord to me. He has been challenging me to love people the way He does. I have been praying for a heart like His and eyes like His. I tend to want to bring truth as it is, a sword, mostly because we like fluffy half truths that make us feel good about ourselves and I just need to be changed. But, like you said, if we don’t approach it from a place of love or make ourselves walk in the shoes of people we have never been in (or at least attempt to) what business do we have speaking to them without compassion. I liken myself to Peter, passion about much and thinking about what he says later. My hope is in the fact that God redeemed Peter’s zealousness, and He did make Him that way..just needed to be refined!:)
I love that when we are filled with the Spirit even the things we didn’t intend to say are used by the Lord!
I know you are just women the Lord is working through, but oh how I pray that I can know more and more the intimacy you have with Jesus. That is what I see in you and why I am continually drawn to your teaching. Sometimes when your teaching I love to stop and think “yep, she knows my Jesus, He is wonderful!” I fully intend to find you all in heaven for a worship dance party for Him:)
Thanks again!
Your words are precious to me! I don’t want to go on and on, but your words hit the spot when I read them. Thank you for living your life for JC.
Missing you guys! How about a fresh word? Love y’all!!!
Oh, dear Beth! My memory verses for August are exactly along these lines and as a Simulcast Coordinator at my church, I am clinging to them everyday! May our weaknesses and the devils plan not stop us from obedience.
2 Cor. 12:9 – Each time He said, “My gracious favor is all you need. My power works best in your weakness”. So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses that the power of Christ may work through me.
It was such an affirmation to my spirit to read your words today. I love when Jesus confirms that He has His eye on us! Thank you for serving, confronting and loving us so well!
Hi Beth,
I sure am glad you are out of jury duty and on your way to Richmond. My best girlfriend and I have been looking forward to being with you since early spring!
I will be praying for your safe trip and God’s annointing over the conference.
See you there!