Hey, summer Bible study sisters! Watch the video if possible because I only put the barest bones in the written part of these summer Bible study posts. This version of your instructions is mostly for back up but, if you prefer to just get your assignments for your gathering this way and bypass all my verbose video-commentary, I certainly do understand that! Feel free! I just want to make sure you’ve experienced some personal interaction on here. Smiling.
OK! Here are your instructions for today and, remember! Your comments to this post are meant to be comprised of your responses to each of the interactives:
1. Based on the question in the middle of p.37 of your homework: To what specific area of holy bravery does God seem to be calling you in this present season?
2. Drawn from the portion on p.46 regarding the 5 ordinary tasks you perform on a daily basis, share a memory of an ordinary circumstance in which God met with you in an extraordinary way. If you’re new to all this and can’t think what to share, don’t feel lame or unspiritual. Pray for Him to do this very thing with you over the coming days and I have a feeling you won’t be disappointed.
3. Based on p.50 and the discussion about the first part of the divine declaration to Gideon, how confident or insecure do you tend to be regarding God’s promise that He is with you? Explain your answer.
4. Look at the bottom of p.57. Would you be willing to share the pair of terms that best describe a disparity you’ve dealt with between your self-perception and a biblical view of who you are in Christ? If you’re willing, also briefly explain your answer.
Ok, Sisters! That’s it! When you leave your comment, please be sure to put your first name, your city, whether you are in a small group or going solo, and your succinct responses to all or at least several of the interactives.
I’m crazy about you! Stay in the Word! We’ll meet again in 2 weeks on July 9th. Have Weeks 3 and 4 of your homework finished for that gathering if at all possible. So much love to you.
Siesta Summer Gideon Study – Week 2 from LPV on Vimeo.
Kathy, Austin
1. Holy Bravery is to Trust to move forward doing what I never dreamed would need to be done not knowing the outcome or my future
2. I am being called to “listen” and release myself in the DEAD SILENCE that Beth mentioned
3. The Ps. 183 spoke to me in a mighty way as I am in the middle of needing great energy that has to be funneled through me by God himself, I am not capable to “do” what is ahead without him. xo and thank you!!!
Cheryl, Pensacola, FL, Solo
1. First, I’m going through a time of health crisis. I’m not sure why this is happening, and I’m fearful. God is calling me to be strong through this. Also, I’m being called to be brave and step out on faith for a decision that He has called me to make in my life work.
2. I enjoy running daily. During these runs, the Lord will impress on my heart people who I need to pray for. I believe that the Lord uses this mundane task so that I can lift others to Him in prayer.
3. Generally, I’m confident that the Lord is with me because He says this in His Word, but lately with my health issues, I tend to wonder.
4. The terms that best describe my self-image and God image are fearful/couragous. At times, I’m so afraid that I won’t be able to do what the Lord has called me to. Thankfully, verses such as the ones in Joshua and Psalm were a great blessing to me and reminder of God’s hand in my life.
Cheryl,
I have been and continue to face the health issues. Stay in prayer and know that God may be asking you to trust Him through it. Pray for others in pain when you are in pain. Out of our own pain, we can be reminded to pray for others.
Jones Creek,Texas
small group
#1 Starting from the inner circle & working with those close to you is difficult.It’s scary to witness to family members.
#2 I’m thankful for my chores, for that means I have many blessings that require them.
God knows where and how to find me.
I struggled through the first week trying to get my mind around God and His instruction to Gideon and his countrymen to destroy the people. I’ve not done much study of the OT. It was a long week, and I only finished Chapter 1. However, I am praising God in that I had a breakthrough on day 5 of week 1. Here’s my only response to the lesson #1 (pg 37)I believe God is asking me to be brave and courageous as the spiritual leader of my home. This is something I did regularly when my children were little and my husband was not yet saved. My children are now grown men and my husband is a toddler in Christ. In the recent past, I became weary and gave up, but my strength is being renewed through this study. I am ready to recommit to boldly pray for my family and for a revival in our lives. I long for my husband to be the spiritual leader, yet he is not ready or unwilling for whatever reason. None-the-less, our home needs a spiritual leader and I commit to allowing the Holy Spirit to show me what it looks like to be the spiritual leader in a household of grown men. I am certain it looks different from raising children, and I am trusting I will be equipped to lead until I am relieved of that responsibility.
Oops…Brenda, Quakertown, PA, pair
Karen from Martinsville, NJ (flying solo)
1. I believe the Lord wants me to get either a Gospel of John or a BIble for my mother-in-law and ask her if she’d like to study together. Was contemplating, “Is this REALLY what You want me to do, Lord, and then I peeked ahead to pg. 61….”Yes, that’s it, Karen!”
2. I most often hear from the Lord when I awaken in the middle of every night. It might be good to start jotting down what He puts on my heart, like Beth does in her master bathroom.
3. I am pretty much always confident the Lord is with me. I need to believe more in the fact that He hears my prayers, as I’ve been praying for what feels like a long time (11 months) on a specific need that has not yet been answered.
4. “Can I choose them all?” :-/ I think it would be incompetent/capable…(second place: insignificant/special) Sadly, I was raised from a very young age to feel afraid of having any power.
Michelle K., Warner Robins, GA, Solo
1. God is calling me to holy bravery in the area of finances. Being an accountant, it seems my thoughts always go toward financial concerns. I truly need to surrender this to Him! He will provide for all my needs.
2. I have had profound spiritual insights while in the shower and while pulling weeds in the yard.
3. In my heart I know that God is with me, but I confess that I sometimes feel so very alone. But then I look all around me and I see such vivid reminders of Him.
4. Insignificant/special – I struggle with trying to find exactly where I fit into His Kingdom plan for me. I tend to compare myself with those around me and don’t see where I have much to offer. Zephaniah 3:17 really speaks to me and my worth to Him. He is ecstatic over me. He is spinning and dancing and twirling over me!
Debbie, Olathe, KS
1. God is calling me to holy bravery in my job that challenges me in many ways, especially in the area of humility.
2. The laundry room is a place in our home where God comforts me when I cry out to Him and I give Him thanks!
3. God has shown me that He is an ever-present help in time of trouble (Psalm 46:1). I sense God is with me most when I seek Him, study and memorize the Word. I do struggle at times to believe or call to mind He is with me because I battle insecurity and do not always trust the Lord.
4. Insignificant/Special-
I have always loved the verse Zephaniah 3:17. It is hard to fathom the Lord my God taking great delight in me and rejoicing over me with singing, but He is revealing this Word to me. What an awesome God He is. Loving the Lord even more through this study, thank you Beth and Priscilla!
4.
Karen Boone, NC (solo) #4 – page 57- I also chose fearful v. courageous – From “Stepping Up Through the Psalms of Ascent”, I became enthralled with the “Feasts of the LORD”. I am not one to speak in front of a group (being fearful), but I was given the courage through my Precious Savior to write our church in emails about the feasts, and then teach them at our church at a Wednesday night service and also to two women’s groups at different churches. The Feasts are still a big passion of mine and I thank you so much for placing the yearning to learn more about them in my heart.
Kathy
Madison, CT…solo
1. Working on stronghold of pride…if only I could be brave enough to truly care ONLY what HE thinks about me!!
2. driving!….and sometimes as I toss and turn at night.
One day as clear as a bell…in my head… I believe God told me he wanted to “know me”, which was in reference to me asking what I was supposed to be studying next.
3. I am 100% confident that God is with me always!!….it is just that sometimes I step away from Him.
4. Loved/Unlovable 1John 4:19 “We love Him because He first loved us.”
It took me years and years to believe that a wretch like me could be lovable. I am too hard on myself when I sin and have to remind myself that I am still loved. Praise God!!
Karen VA solo
1. Holy bravery will be required for me as I take on a new role in my daughters high school.
2. I experience God when I am getting ready in the morning.
3. “The Lord is with you,…” Doesn’t always resonate with me as I wish it did, I often don’t feel, hear or see him, and I question why?
4. I guess with my new role ,I can feel incompetent vs capable. 2 Cor. 3:5-6 states ” our competence is from God and my confidence will come form His spirit.
emi, white house, solo & with church discipleship:
1. trust God and let go
2. Waking up in the morning and having a song in my head. Today was “Start with Me” by Tim Timmons. When I was searching for the name of the song to read the lyrics, the song came on K-LOVE. I definitely believe this song goes with this Gideon study…legacy.
3. I struggle to believe He is with me. I “know” it because God tells us in the Bible, but “believing” He is with me, I struggle.
4. All of them, but rejected/accepted (John 15:16) spoke volumes. Again, I know what God spoke, but i seem to lack fruit in the positions/works I thought He appointed me to go.
Praying for each of us to bear summer fruit. Thank you Beth, Living Proof, and Priscilla.
Kristi. Rogersville. Solo
1. Step outside my comfort zone and follow His guidance to a new church where I know only a handful of people.
2. One day when I was so frustrated with all that I needed to do. My 10 yr old kept bugging me to play a game. Something hit me and I stopped and said yes go get a game. We ended up playing a while laughing and cutting up. At bedtime that night she looked at me and said “Thanks mom. I had a really good time tonight.” It was like a ton of bricks hit me. One to spend more time doing things she asked me to. Then that I was taking the studying for my SS lesson and bible study homework a chore. That I needed to stop and always pray before reading God’s word but also to be thankful for His word, that it is true , and I have several bibles to study. To study with thanksgiving and joy and listen to what God wants to teach me during this time. Then be able to say thanks God, I had a good time tonight. After that my passion for God’s word grows more every time i study and if it don’t, I stop and pray and start over.
3. I have no doubt God is with me. He will never leave me. It is the times i leave Him out and try to do things on my own that I really mess up. I have to remind myself God sees the whole puzzle put together and the picture it makes. I only have one small piece and no idea about the rest of it.
4. Ungifted and equipped- i would never talk in SS. I didn’t talk much at all in any discussions about God, the bible, church. I was sure i didn’t even have a spiritual gift. Then I done Psalms of Ascent. I loved it so much i couldn’t help but participate in small group. Parts of the bible clicked for me in a way like never before and in such a way it literally ran cold chills o ver me. The next bible study i was a small group leader which continued for 5 years. During this time i also started teaching SS for 5 years. Always knowing it was never me but God doing all this.
Now I am in a new season and have left my church of ten years, my daughters entire life. I don’t know what God has in store for me. I know He is leading and will equip me to do whatever it is.
Tiffani, Walla Walla, WA, Solo.
1. Bravery to be distinct in my actions for my children to see.
2. One of the most recent times the Lord has spoken to me was while I was straightening my hair. 🙂
3. I know the Lord is with me always, but I struggle with feeling like I haven’t put enough effort into my relationship with Him and that He is distant at times as a result of my lack of effort.
4. Fearful/Courageous. I am currently in a season of overcoming fear and making the decision to be courageous in everything.
Teresa, Chadron, NE; solo
1. witnessing to/mentoring younger women
2. Grocery shopping, a young woman dressed somewhat shabbily approached me in the parking lot and asked if I wanted to buy a gift card to the store. I was hesitant at first but something made me ask her more about what was going on with her and she told me about hitchhiking across the state to meet up with a friend who had disappeared and she now had nowhere to stay and only a small amount on this gift card. I went back inside the store with her and bought the gift card from her and gave her a few dollars more to help pay for a room for the night and help to find shelter for the rest of the week.
3. Pretty confident most of the time these days – I spent too many years not letting God in at all and now I feel like he’s there all the time.
4. Ungifted – equipped. I so love all the wonderful women who I’ve learned so much from over the past few years and have always felt I could never do that no matter how much I wanted to. Am finding that as I study and spend more and more time in his Word, I am equipped by Him and am starting to do some teaching and encouraging of my own. Praise God!
1. I know God is calling me to break a bad cycle that runs in my family. A cycle of ALWAYS finding a way to be a victim. We have 2 little girls and I don’t want them to have to take that into adulthood like I have. I believe God is asking me to take a stand. Do something about it in my own life first.
2. Like I have stated before, we have 2 little girls. One is 5 and one will be 4 in August. My husband and I have talked back and forth about having another child. I was so torn for the longest time because I was so sad about them both not being a baby any more. I feel like the “baby” part went by too fast. Now they don’t need me for some things they used to. I couldn’t decide if it was just me and my saddness or what. One day on my way up to the church office to help my husband (we work in youth ministry), God spoke clearly to me as I looked in the rearview mirror…Don’t mourn the loss of that time of their life, REJOICE in the times ahead. Be excited that you are entering a new phase of life with them. They will still need their mommy. You have so much ahead with the 2 of them. Be joyful. I had a wonderful peace come over me. I still do.
3. Right now I think I only let myself feel that HE is with me in certain areas. I need to grasp that in ALL areas…God is with me!
4. I had a hard time picking. I identify with a few. Right now…I am struggling with the last one. Insignificant vs. Special….I compare myself to others. I hadn’t really reailzed how bad it was until the past week or so. I feel like I am nothng but I KNOW GOD MADE ME SPECIAL. I am now praying hard for this area of my life to change. It has impacted a lot in my life.
Hello Andrea. I, too, am from White House, TN. My response is listed above yours at #111. I am much older than you with a son in college. Your answer to #2 placed a smile on my face. It is easy to mourn the time that has past and not be “needed”. I just wanted to encourage you today. Maybe our paths will cross since we live in the same town. Press on! 🙂
Tara, Greenville, SC, riding solo!
1. I would have to say, stepping out in faith to trust Him specifically with a decision to do a mission trip to the fall. He has not let me rest since I was asked if i may be interested. Bravery to step out of my comfort zone & serve Him.
2. Standing in Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, TN, I was watching an artist mold clay to make a pot/bowl of some sort. An overwhelming feeling came over me, like an “ah-ha” moment. Just like the potter, OUR POTTER, holds use carefully in His hands. Molding & shaping us, so that when He is finished, others will see the beauty of what He has made! And also, just like there are times when the potter’s work isn’t forming the way he wants it, he simply starts over, giving the clay another opportunity to be something great. Just like OUR POTTER, gives us 2nd, 3rd, 4th chances.
3. I’m confident that He’s with me bc His word tells me that & i have seen Him with me During ny life. I’m insecure at times bc of the battlefield I have in my mind.
4. Fearful and insignificant; due to struggles with anxiety, worry, fear of failing; and feeling insignificant as an older single. With friends all married & feelings of not belonging.
1. I believe the Lord is asking me to have a holy bravery with my son. He is divorced and I live with him. When it is his week for the boys, I take care of them while he is at work. He knows the Lord, is a great father who loves his children. However, I do not hear God’s word coming out of my grandson’s (ages 6 and 7) mouth. My son knows God’s word and has used it back on me several times, yet not with his sons. So I am asking for prayer that He will make me brave to stand before him.
2. When I was doing dishes, I too like a clean kitchen especially before going to bed. He made it abundantly clear that He has blessed me with food to cook and eat, ability to clean up afterward and these are those without so rejoice in His blessings. I have never looked at something so mundane again!
3. I love that reminder, because while I am confident, I don’t ever want to think or fear that He is not. The enemy has tried to discourage me, but I take those thoughts captive and remind myself that He will never desert me nor forsake me – Heb 13:6. I have seen His footprints, heard His voice and Know His touch!!
4. The pair I found most were insignificant / special but also incompetent / capable. This stems from my upbringing — constantly being told why can’t I be like … you aren’t smart enough for … you don’t know what you are doing … So, I smile knowing that He will rejoice over me and the Spirit gives me life!!!
Lisha, Wetumpka AL, duo
1. A load of parenting issues. May God give me a “holy bravery” to be a parent pleasing to Him.
2. Several years ago, while I was changing the sheets on my bed, God made it very clear I was supposed to adopt my foster child. I think of it every time I change the sheets!
3. I am confident in his presence, yet I shy away from asking and trusting in his help. I am working on this one.
4. I often fall into that pit feeling incompetent. I am claiming 2 Corinthians 3:5-6 now — Praise God for his competence!
Brandy, Roseburg, Oregon. Small Group. 1.) My parents aren’t Christians and so my husband and I are starting a legacy of faith. My grandparents are Christians, but really I have no idea what a Christian family looks like. The “Brave” part about this is that I feel like I have no idea what I’m doing when it comes to God-centered parenting. I’ve read books, but I often I wonder if I’m raising my kids to be authentic followers of Christ.
Barb-Wetumpka, AL-with my BFF
1. Bravery to be the hands and feet of Jesus to a hurting world.
2. So many times I have heard from him while driving, to work, to the grocery store & other places.
3. Most of the time I know He is with me, but on occasion Satan has his way with me and my belief falters!
4. Ungifted/Equipped – For a long time I fought total surrender to ministry thinking I was not trained. Now I know if I am willing, God takes care of the rest!
Kirsten/Aliso Viejo, CA/solo
1. The courage to believe that He is leading me as I walk forward through my life. I cannot see the plans the Lord has for me and it is scary to walk in darkness, but I’m being called to be brave enough to keep walking despite fear and to trust Him.
2. The Lord meets me at work constantly. In this current season, He speaks to me there about having integrity, about trusting Him for provision instead of my boss, and about learning to love coworkers (believers and non-believers) despite the challenges we face.
3. I know He is with me. I know it. I ignore it or forget it sometimes, though, especially when I’m caught up in something in life, being busy, trying to get things done, trying to do what I need to do. But I know it. And I take solace in it. Even if I need reminders.
4. I went with worthless/valuable in this season, though perhaps many others also fit my life. They all seem tied together. I cannot see what’s ahead of me right now, not even tomorrow, so I fear that there is nothing because I deserve nothing or because I’m easy to overlook. But when I remember all that Jesus has done for me–died to save me–I know I must be very important to Him.
1) The courage to speak up and speak out against injustices or if someone has been overlooked;simply to move beyond my passiveness for the sake of myself, my family, and others.
2)During the mundane task of disciplining my child.When I spank him and say things like,”How many times do I have to tell you, son???!!!” and God Holy Spirit whispers to me,”HOW MANY TIMES DO I HAVE TO TELL YOU???!!!
3)I am confident that He is with me as I see Him working in so many ways around me. He has done marvelous things!!!
4) I can echo Sarah from Colorado on this one: fearful/insignificant. I have always, as far back as I can remember, been fearful(or shy) and full of anxiety in new/uncomfortable situations, which then causes me to feel insignificant.Longing to be delivered from this stronghold.
Darcy – Edwardsville, IL – solo
1. I think God is calling me to holy bravery in many areas of my life. I have always thought of myself as a fearful person – it is something that has just truly had control of my life in the past. (So this also sort of answers number 4). 🙂 Recently, I am so much sensing victory over this area of my life. So, really, He is calling me to holy bravery in LOTS of ways! Just in stepping out of fear & trusting Him! But more specifically, I sense that He is calling me to be more intentional with the women in my degree program in sharing and living out the gospel. He is calling me to look different than the rest and to love.
2. A few months ago, I was talking with my fiance on the phone (precious times because he is far away and very busy) and we were just acting so ridiculous and laughing so hard. I was just struck with how amazing the gift of laughter is. God did not have to give us this gift (and he certainly didn’t have to give everyone else a DIFFERENT laugh). As I thought about it, He reminded me that He is a God of joy, and He wants to give us joy. We are made in His image, and I believe laughter is an incredible piece of that image.
3. The Lord is with me. He has been impressing this upon me more and more lately as He gives me victory over my fears. Even if my worst fears come true, I KNOW that He is with me and that He will give me grace. That is my Hope.
AmandaJo Trinidad, CO; solo
1. My Daddy has always been the bravest man in the world to me. He was recently diagnosed with brain cancer and watching him battle this, makes me feel like the world has flipped over. I feel like God is asking me to be brave for my Dad now.
2. I can’t remember a time when God has clearly said something to me during a mundane task but he does often bring me his peace while I’m showering telling me to slow down.
3. I am very confident that God is always with me- I just wish I FELT like he was always with me.
I didn’t get through week two but hope to dive into it tomorrow during a long drive.
1. To just be that light, plant my feet and stand firm. Especially with culture loosening and even the church in some cases loosening its beliefs.
2. 2 things I can remember while away at school: walking somewhere on campus with a Christian sister and discussing just how amazing it is that we can walk, breath and how are body works without even thinking about it! How far people have come. How could this happen by evolution! God is so awe worthy. Also seeing his beauty in my surroundings, the hills, sunsets, stars, etc. Such a pretty little place He has given us 🙂
3. I tend to forget that He is with me sometimes since I don’t tend to hear Him answer me or understand why certain things are going on/haven’t happened.
Elise–Newark
1. God is calling me to holy bravery in living counter-cultural (what activities I participate in, how I dress, spending money, etc.)
2. The daily grind of raising three kids has been used to show me what is really important in life and what doesn’t really matter in the long run.
3. Confident when doing “spiritual things”, yet insecure in the daily mundane tasks.
4. Fearful/Courageous. Partly because of some issues in childhood and partly because of who I am, I struggled in my young adult years with anxiety and panic. Through many years of seeking God in this specific area, I have more freedom and courage than I ever have in my life. Praise the Lord!
Cindy Cannon, Otterville, IL
Solo
1. Change, we are experiencing lots of change during this present season!
2. One day about 4 weeks ago, I was standing in line at the grocery store, and people were rushing by, I could see people outside crossing the street, and God spoke to my spirit, He said, see those people, all those people, I love them so, they don’t all know me, but I know them, and I love them! I was so blessed that he shared that with me!
3. My heart wants to believe, but sometimes my head gets in the way! Trying every day to trust him more!
4. Incompetent/Capable – Sometimes I feel like I don’t have the skills I need to complete something, that I am not equipped to meet the goal. But I realize that I do not have to be equipped that God equips me, and in my weakness His strength is revealed. His is so amazing!
Danita, Lake in the Hills, IL, solo
1) To continue to be real and to stand for truth especially when it will require sacrifice or result in rejection.
2) While crying and doing dishes one night, it was as if Christ walked up behind me, wrapped His arms around me, and whispered, “I know it’s been a hard day. But I *see* you, and I will see you through. I’m not leaving. You can count on Me.” I broke down in tears. For Him to meet me while I was doing my least favorite task was an evidence that He cares so much for me, especially in the mundane.
3) Through my previous life experiences, Christ has proven to me that He is always present. Of this I am confident. My struggle now is choosing to believe all things come from His goodness.
4) Incompetent-Capable. To use the words of others, I have always been considered gullible, and, many times, that has felt like incompetence. I’m also a type-A personality, and I place on myself expectations that are completely unreasonable for this season of life, which in turn makes me feel incompetent.
Christ has shown me I am not gullible. I just expect truth, and when I speak, I speak truth. I am thankful He has grown me up this way. He also has been enabling me to enjoy my children and let go of the the expectations that were destroying us.
SAN Bernardino Ca. Solo
1. My holy bravery :grow closer to the Lord.
2. My task :wash the dishes my prayers that god washes all my sins away.
3.I am very confident in god and he keeps his promises
To me .
4. My pair of terms are rejected /accepted I’m afraid of being rejected when I witness to people .I know god accepts me just as I am. John :15:16 .
Monica, Draper, Utah / Solo
1.) Holy bravery required to spawn a legacy of faith in our family is Daring To Be Different. Different from my family & how I was raised & different than my husbands family, who are believers, but lack confronting issues. Better to brush them under the rug then confront. My desire to change.
2.) Ordinary Tasks of washing dishes; wiping off countertops; watering outside flower pots; making the bed; & making dinner. That totals about 2 hrs of my day. I am trying to stay on task to get things done & possibly missing out on any extraordinary messages from God. Pray to be Aware.
3.) I believe & I’m confident He is with me, but I can become insecure like Gideon because I don’t think I see or hear Him. What does that look like? I have more of a Peace/Shalom or confidence that He is there with me, but an audible voice….Not me.
4.) Fearful/Courageous. I am so fearful of making a mistake, or letting others down, or appearing limited in knowledge. I’m sure it holds me back at times. Easier to sit on the sidelines. Hard to believe Ms Beth struggles in this area when you see all she has accomplished in a lifetime. Crazy. She dominates the Christian circle with written Bible Studies & books, speaking to 1000’s continually, runs a vibrant ministry, blogs, even leads Bibby VBS… Fear? Must be God Power! Amen Lord on this sister who You have brought up to teach/bless us. Thank for injecting Your courage in us.
Cindy, Stanton, CA
I am in a small group, Women’s Bible Cafe.
1. I will need to be brave to move from California where most of my family is (including 5 grandchildren) and move to Canada where I have no family. But God is calling me there to take care of a young woman who needs my help.
1. To persevere through the difficult times as He will not give me more than I can handle. He is making me stronger.
3. I feel confident that He Is with me always, that’s thid current trial/testing is only making me stronger. I have to look at it that way or I will be depressed.
4. Fearful/incompetent (inadequate). This is from my relationship issues.
But He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant, of the Spirit. (2 Cor 3:5-6)
Jan, Athens, Ga: 2 of us
1 To walk by faith not by sight. Personal fear of being incapable to walk in my circumstances worthy of a child of the King. Fear of falling short. Fear of being hurt.
2 Just last week I was preparing dinner. A thunderstorm had just passed through our area. As I looked east from my kitchen window, God allowed me to watch the miracle of the formation of a rainbow. If I were a photographer, I would have grabbed a camera and captured it, and almost ran out with my phone…but God stilled me. He spoke to my spirit and said “Be still and know that I am God” and “I don’t give many this opportunity, watch , enjoy and worship me”
From my viewpoint the rainbow was not as clearly defined as it formed, but it was a rainbow! He reinforced that my life is a mass of molecules coming together to form something beautiful with different layers of my life layered perfectly under God’s promises. Rom 8:28
3. See number 2. I have the tendency to retreat to the winepress under the tree.
4. Insignificance/special. Zeph 3:17 really spoke to me.
Thank you for doing this study! And thank you Priscilla!
Paula, O’Fallon, solo:
1. Letting go. Giving up control.
2. I used to regard spiritual behavior as being separate from daily practical duties. Once, when I was at a stage in my life where I was really focusing on improving the intimacy of my prayer life, I was cooking dinner for family. Overwhelmed, running behind, I burned my hand. I wanted to scream angrily, cry in self-pity but instead I found myself calling on the Lord. No other words or prayer, just calling on Him. Such peace washed over me. I began to see how He should be IN and EXPRESSED from every part of my life, every daily task.
3. I am very confident that God is with me. Someone told me I have the spiritual gift of faith. I asked how faith could be a spiritual gift. Doesn’t every Christian have it? She explained that not everyone has it in that great of a degree and is able to share it with others.
4. I added a pair of terms. Hesitant and bold. I haven’t had time to look up Scriptural support yet. Anyone have some to share with me?
LaDonna Hammond, LA Solo
1. Trusting Him with the molding and shaping of my heart and perspective.
2. Yesterday in the car. He reassured me that this is only a season and that I was not alone. To get up dust my hands and knees off and to keep going.
3. Very insure. I struggle with that the most. My life was hard early on and I had to learn how to survive. So at 16 when I surrendered my life to Jesus Christ it wasn’t for me to warp my mind around someone wanting and being with me all the time. As our relationship began and I noticed the pursute my faith grew. I still struggle with it some today but I’m seeing my trust and confidence in Him grow. He’s in it for the long haul and He’s not going anywhere!!!
4. Self-image: worthless
God-image: valuable
Due to abuse and absent parents I thought I had no value but because of Christ, what He’s done and where I am in my life right now. I know I’m dearly treasured.
Britt, Burlington, Solo.
1. To speak out about God more and not worry about offending someone.
2. When taking a bath, I received an almost immediate answer to a prayer request that I had just made! It brought me to tears because I knew God was with me!
3. Very confident. But, I had to go through a very difficult season in my life where I witnessed Him being there for me and my family in order to have this strong confidence now.
4. Fearful/Courageous. I have been receiving encouragement from others to step out of my comfort zone and I recently decided to let go of my fear and to give it all to God and go for it!
Tonya, Ishpeming, MI; small group
4. fearful-courageous. I loved both Psalm 138:3 and Joshua 1:9. I am commanded by God to be strong and courageous. I do not need to be discouraged because God is with me wherever I go! What an incredible blessing!
Pam in Texas: Going Solo
1. In these difficult times when many do not listen and others are truly mean, God is calling me to bravery to speak with others about his love.
2. Feeding and caring for my horses, cows, and goats God speaks to me and points out how my care with these diverse animals is much like my care for children and their diverse educational needs.
3. Confidence and insecurity are both felt; I know God is with me, but when in a group of friends or a tight situation I feel insecure and doubt.
4. Outward most people see me as courageous and stoic, but inward and often I am fearful and cowardly.
Again, situations vary and feelings vary, but through this study I am learning to use my weaknesses to see and feel God’s strength.
Traci, Des Moines,IA. Solo
1. Not sure if its brave so much as having to stay strong, but I have a teenager who seems to be doing all that he can to damage all that he can to damage my very long line of a family legacy of faith. I cannot ever stop trying to be brve in the face of it!
2. Making meals, caring for my home and children, and dealing with my previously mentioned teenager. God meets me every day when it comes to dealing my angry teenager. I should be a total basket case by now (some days I am pretty close!) . But somehow, God gives me just enough every day…. It’s kinda like the oil that just kept appearing, just enough, everyday!
3. I’m totally confident that He is with me! This is where my childlike faith comes into Play. Gods word tells me He is with me, so He is! Period. End of story . Even in the mess of our lives right now with our angry child, He is there. ( seeing a theme here? Lol). I admit I’m not sure why God doesn’t decide to bring our child back around , but one thing I am sure of , is that God has not moved or left me or my child. I can only see today And yesterday. But praise God that Yahweh has an eternal perspective.
4. Ungifted/equipped
Mary, in NH
1. As a school teacher, I work with a small, but needy immigrant population. While my administration may not support my efforts, I feel God’s calling me to get involved with these families, helping them on my own time this summer.
2. Years ago, I felt convicted about how “grumpy” I could get just by doing these ordinary tasks – laundry, dishes, etc. When I start to feel frustrated while doing them, God has a way of reminding me that I am very blessed – to have a family that needs me to do these things and all the appliances to work through these tasks efficiently. Thank God for the washer, dryer, stove, etc.
3. It’s been a big revelation to me in the past few years that God is ALWAYS with me. He’s there with me at work and around the house, not just when I’m in crisis mode and I call on him. And He cares about all manner of crisis – not just the big ones regarding health and finances. He’s there, helping me handle antsy 3rd graders and guiding me through the grocery store!
4. I’ve worked very hard the past several years, trying to become courageous, equipped, and capable in Christ. Recently there have been some changes where I work that have left me feeling rejected, insignificant, and worthless. So now I’m learning that it doesn’t matter what some people think, that if I’m following Christ’s plan – in God I am special, valuable, and accepted.
Cheryl, Huntington, WV
1. It doesn’t seem to take holy bravery to leave your church of many years and go be a part of a different fellowship. I love this body of believers, but sometimes it takes bravery (courage from the Lord) to push myself out of my shell.
2. This may sound trivial, but one recent way God met me in the ordinary: I was days away from traveling overseas. I was out of my favorite eyebrow pencil and could not take time off work to go purchase a new one. I went to bed and was in between wake and sleep when I felt the Lord impress upon me to check my junk drawer in the bedroom. Sure enough, buried deep inside was a brand new eyebrow pencil. I was just so grateful that He reminded me that it was there and how He even cares about the small things.
3. Being a widow with an empty nest is not the stage of life I would have chosen for myself; however, so much time on my own helps me to realize that I’m never alone — that God is truly always with me.
4. Self image/God image = ungifted – equipped: I realize that we all have unique gifts or talents. Some people seem to have so many. I feel like I don’t have as many or they’re still undiscovered or underdeveloped. However, I definitely am not gifted in teaching, yet in my current job, am often called upon to teach. I’ve found that although not gifted in this area, even then God equips me with His presence where I don’t feel frightened and I try to offer all I have to this endeavor.
Katie g; Knoxville, tn
1. in relationships with my related family
2. My daughter will randomly break out singing “Jesus Loves Me” at the best times for me to hear it, ie. at home or at walmart or in a public restroom
3. For the most part, I have been able to rest in the fact that He is with me always, but it’s when I feel like I may have displeased Him is when I am afraid that I will lose His felt presence with me. I am learning to believe His declarations of love for me.
4. I wrote down on index cards both fear vs. courage and inadequate vs. competent; it is because I have a real problem with being a people pleaser, and because I am insecure over being a good wife and mom
I honestly and earnestly thank God for you, Beth, and for Priscilla and the Gideon study. This has meant so much to me, and is perfect timing for what is going on right now in this season of life for me. I just wanted to say that. God has used you both to encourage me soo much.
Blessings and ((HUGS)) to you both.
Lyli, Fort Lauderdale, Solo:
1. I wrote down that God is asking me to start a legacy of sin by standing against generational sin on both sides of our family — 1st by living a life of faith and serving others and 2nd by praying for and loving on my family members who are still held captive.
2. Lately, I find that God speaks to me a great deal as I am driving. The week after Rick Warren’s son committed suicide, my husband and I were on a road trip. As we were heading home, I specifically heard God speak to me a clear word on the subject of depression. I came home that night and wrote a blog post about it. (Had a big ugly cry over it, too.). Several friends shared how the post encouraged them, so I was glad I “went there” and didn’t sit on it out of fear of “what people would think” if I talked about it.
3. I know that God is with me. I am really secure in that fact — I met Him as a teenager, so we’ve been walking together for a while. I think where I struggle is with thinking that some of my life is not “important enough” to be on God’s radar or agenda.. as if God were too busy to worry about my little problems.
4. I wrote down “insignificant vs special” — sometimes, I think “hello, I am here! Does anyone see me?” I especially struggled with this at my old job — I saw folks way less qualified than I was get promoted, and I sort of felt invisible sometimes. This is why I love it when Priscilla shared about how we need to focus on the mission field God has put right in front of us — our family and our church family. This is where my influence will be strongest. (We will leave the stadiums to Beth and Priscilla…)
p.s. — Beth, loved that green jacket in the video. You should wear green more often. 🙂
1.) Holy Bravery – victory in the midst of loss (father passed away last week on 6/19)
To be honest, I was only able to complete Week 1 but I’m going to do my best to catch up before the next session. I’ll post my answers to interactives #2-#4 when I finish Week 2.
Working on this study is true nourishment to my soul.
Tiffany, Summerville, SC- Going Solo
1. Called to some type of ministry and am starting with a small group of middle school girls. Teaching Soul Surfer this summer with friends.
2. The simple mundane tasks of washing dishes and folding clothes has become a sweet time with God. I have 3 boys and a lot of dirty plates and dirty clothes. I pray over the person who dirtied the dishes or wore the clothes to have a sweet moment in the ordinary daily tasks!
3.I am confident in His promise that He is with me. I have just had such a thirst for His word for the past 7 years and now I have just completed Beth’s James Study and am called to do it and know that He will be with me as I live this thing out!
4.I actually circled 4 pairs of words but finally concluded that the other three are a result of the first. Fearful/courageous is my main conflicting self image versus how God sees me. I have prayed for boldness and God has placed some encouragers in my path to take away my fear of hurting others feelings and replacing it with standing bold for God.. I have learned I can still have my gentle spirit and be bold at the same time.
Crystal, Atlanta GA, Solo
1. God seems to be calling me to be brave in sharing with my friends and co-workers about the magnificent changes He can make in our lives.
2. Like Beth I listen to worship and praise music in the morning while getting ready for work. He reminds me daily that he is with me and energizes me for the day during this time.
3. I do truly believe God is with me in every moment of my life. It may not always be evident but I know if I just take a moment to stop and ask him what’s going on he will give me reassurance that he is there.
4. The pair of terms that best describes a disparity I’ve dealt with is rejected and accepted. I went through many years of filling rejected by my family, peers, and God. In the past 3 years, I’ve grown so much through my savior Jesus Christ. He has shown me that I am worthy and loved by my family and friends, but most all Him. I no longer feel worthless in the eyes of the Lord.
Thank you Jesus!!!
1. I have 2 grandsons whose parents are going through a rather ugly divorce. In this process, some days are good and others are not so good for them. We are together each day and they are watching me, listening to my conversation, and asking questions. This is my present season of bravery. I have to be their rock right now just as Christ is my rock, my fortress, my deliverer and refuge. Some days I have to remind myself to be brave because I am covered my the ALMIGHTY.
2. Sitting at my computer, just gazing out the window, God sent the most beautiful cardinal to brighten up my view. HE used that cardinal bird to give me one of the most profound revelations of my life. Needless to say, every time I see one now I am joyfully reminded of God’s words to me.
3. Sometimes I just don’t know how to pray about a situation. But I know we serve a BIG God so I just pray that He will be HUGE in my circumstances. He is so faithful!!!
4. Fearful/incompetent. I think this comes from years of legalism and seasons in my life when I didn’t guard my heart against the fiery darts of the enemy. I have come a long way but sometimes I have to remind myself that no matter how I feel, what the scripture says about me is true. Praise God!
Janet,Auburn,AL solo
1. Be Bold in speaking Gods word to my 15 and 13 year old.
2. Most of my task involve some sort of cleaning. I felt the Lord telling me to clean out some idols in my life.
3. Thank you Jesus that you never leave me or forsake me.
Kim, Hubbard Ohio, doing with a friend
1. Getting rid of my fear-worry stronghold so that I can be usable to Him. I believe that He is preparing me for mentoring/teaching and although I don’t have fear about that, I worry about health/death and I know I need to break the cycle in my life.
2. The LORD always speaks to me in the shower~ I think it is the only place that I am quiet 🙂 Also, taxi-ing my girls~ although frustrating at times how long we are in the car, He has shown me the beautiful times of relationship building we do when we are held captive by the CRV and talk!
3. I am confident that He is with me! I never doubt that.
4. Fearful-courageous~ I know that He is with me. My fear is knowing that sometimes He allows suffering to mold and refine us. I don’t want to face that. But I love Beth’s quote a while back that goes something like~ “when we imagine the worst, we never imagine Him in it” I am trying to focus on Him being there no matter what may come.
still going solo
1. my specific area of holy bravery @ this season in my life is teaching junior hi sunday school & discussing Biblical perspectives w/them that run counter to the culture of their day.
2.one of my daily tasks has always been to make dinner, but several years ago God urged me to make 2 huge pots of different soups & shortly after they were made the entire city lost it’s power due to an ice storm, but we were able to share our food (& our stockpile of fireplace wood) to our neighborhood & thus open up doors of opportunity! (we kept soup warm on camping stoves)
3.the question asked how confident or insecure do i tend to be regarding God’s promise that He is w/me and i need to honestly say that it varies for me based on hormonal changes as well as how close i am walking w/the Lord @ the time, but i mostly feel very confident unless i am out of fellowship w/others.
4.the pair of terms that best desccribes a disparity of reality & perception is the “rejected/accepted” couplet. when i FEEL accepted & loved by others then i thrive & am able to use my gifts, but when i FEEL rejected, i focus inwardly and “clam up” even though i never doubt God’s love & acceptence of me (hope that makes sense)