Wow, friends! It’s our last gathering for our Siesta Summer Bible Study 2014! Thank you so much for allowing me to serve you this summer! I am so proud of you for hanging in there and pursuing God through His Word in tailspins of activity and swirls of people. Listen, don’t you dare get discouraged if you were unable to finish in eight weeks. Keep at it and see it to a conclusion even if you don’t get to the last page until October! God will time the themes of the lessons to match your challenges. He is so faithful.
I hope you are able to view the video but, if not, you’ll find the basic instructions for your discussions and comments below this screen.
SSBS Session 5 COTD from LPV on Vimeo.
Discussion from Week Seven: (To Love the Truth)
1. In your small group or in your comment to the post, review Day 4, “A Strong Delusion”. How can God use darkness when we refuse the light? Was the lesson any help at all in sorting out some difficult concepts?
2. Pages 180-181 – Choose one of those three sections that hit you the most personally and discuss why. For instance, have you experienced a sifting season? Or a thorn in the flesh? Share something you filled in on pgs. 180-181.
From Week Eight: (The Lord of Peace)
Pg. 205 – Reread Romans 16:20.
1. Day Four: Discuss why you will be especially happy for that day to come. How do you truly owe the enemy one? What do you hope to make him sorry for?
2. Pg. 209 – Did you happen to write your own word picture of grace? If so, share it.
3. Lastly, if you have one primary thing you believe this eight week series has been about between you and Jesus, what would it be?
Bless you, Sister! I love you and appreciate you so much! Let’s stay in the Word and hold tight to Jesus! I love this portion of Ephesians 6 out of The Message. It’s a perfect wrap up to our series:
“God is strong, and he wants you strong. So take everything the Master has set out for you, well-made weapons of the best materials. And put them to use so you will be able to stand up to everything the Devil throws your way. This is no afternoon athletic contest that we’ll walk away from and forget about in a couple of hours. This is for keeps, a life-or-death fight to the finish against the Devil and all his angels. Be prepared. You’re up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it’s all over but the shouting you’ll still be on your feet.” Ephesians 6:10-13 (The Message)
SO so so thankful for Grace. I think I’ll be the one viewing this page in October!! But He is faithful!!!
1. About God using darkness when we refuse the light. Yes! There was a time in my life when he did just that. And I don’t ever want to go there again. Suffice it to say, that for 4 months, I was under the worse oppression I have ever felt in my life. The Lord delivered me one day from all of it. I never want to leave the place he put me to live. Under the shadow of his wings!
2. I’ve had both the thorn in the flesh amd a period of sifting. The thorn is just too personal to mention here. But I will say this, because of it I have learned that I am SERIOUSLY loved by God. And to have experienced that is THE most precious thing I’ve ever had.
3. The thing that I would truly like to make the enemy sorry for is the way he destroyed relationships between women in my family. Since my 4 daughters were little I have been praying over them that God would destroy the stronghold of .satan that seems to ferment hatred between women. God had to heal and deal with some things in me. And I had to obey him. It meant getting rid of pride amd forgiving some people. But now my relationships are good. My daughters are getting to see reconcile themselves under the power of the Holy Spirit. Some have been incredible. Some are still in process. But God is squishing Satan under his feet, amd bringing us all peace!
4. I did not have a word picture, because I’m still savoring the grace one.
This summer has been an incredible oasis of peace for me. We did not get to go away as a family this year, but it was nice having a quiet unhurried summer here too. Going through this Bible study was like eating steak for breakfast every morning. It fed my spirit amd challenged me and was in my thoughts every day. It was especially clear to me as some things came up about the duties God has for me to do. I needed the wonderful truths that were here about body life in church and ministry. It was intimate instruction. Like Jesus holding you close and breathing on my face. Thank you mama Beth for the hardwork you did. For being obedient and receptive to Jesus. I caught what you got!
On page 209, I was excited to see your pictures of grace. I have loved this since I heard you recite them at the last Simulcast (I believe.) I have not come up with my own picture of grace, but have embraced this one as my own….Grace treats us like we already are what we fear we’ll never become. That one word picture has been and continues to be a blessing to me.
The one thing that I feel has been primarily between me and Jesus in this study has definitely been in Week Six. Discerning my spiritual gifts has been a huge stumbling block for me. I love knowing that God is not going to let me miss what he put me on this earth to accomplish. And that what he has called me to do is beyond my natural abilities. I believe that is what has always stopped me…..that I could never figure out what I do well enough that it must be my calling/gift. Now I see that it’s not about how well I can do something….it’s about just going out there and meeting the needs of others, knowing that God will see to it that I am well-equipped…..(by staying in the Word!)
Can I just say, sweet Beth…..Best. Study. Ever!!!! I love you sister.
I love that: Grace treats us like we already are what we fear we’ll never become. Beautiful.
As we finish today…….through these past 8 weeks my father – in – law was diagnosed with terminal cancer, has died and been buried already for 3 weeks….. Today I am selling our parent’s home of 56 years ( the grief over that was like my parents have just died again, and ALL of the memories…) Being in a daily study has meant sooo much, even though I’ve done it alone. Thank you for making me feel included.
Oh Robin, we are so very sorry for the loss you have experienced this summer, and all that it entails. May God be near, Sister.
1. How can God use darkness when we refuse the light? John 8:44 says that Satan is a liar. When he lies, he speaks his native language. I think when we refuse the light, God allows darkness to play out in our lives. All the “promises” of the enemy ultimately burn us, and graciously, God uses the resulting pain and desperation to cause us to cry out to the Lord. When we do finally taste and see that the LORD is good, we not only believe, but also come to KNOW (first hand) the contrast between light and darkness – that Jesus is the Holy One of God, the Shepherd that leads us to springs of life-giving water! John 6:69; Revelation 7:17
2. Have you experienced a sifting season? I have been through several sifting seasons at different times and intensities, but one is standing out to me today. A few years ago, God let me see myself (up close and uncomfortably personal) in several areas I didn’t even realize were problems. It was like getting smacked with waves in the ocean. Every time I’d come up for air, I’d get hit with another wave. I remember laying on my couch telling God I would follow Him wherever He would lead, but I didn’t think I could survive much more of seeing myself. I think looking at ourselves, really looking at ourselves, can be one of the most painful types of sifting. He worked so much hypocrisy out of me then though, so I’m thankful.
1. Discuss why you will be especially happy for that day to come. 1 Corinthians 13:12 says, “For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known.” I will be especially happy for this – to see face to face, to know fully, even as I have been fully known. There are so many puzzle pieces – some I’ve been able to fit together, others floating off on their own. I know that God will redeem and be glorified through everything (even the suffering, sadness, fear, confusion, rejection, loneliness, and overall brokenness of our world), and also that everything will ultimately work together for our good. I’m really just so excited to see how it all will come together.
2.Did you happen to write your own word picture of grace? If so, share it. Grace is finding acceptance and a warm safe place to abide even after thinking I could do better on my own and ignorantly disregarding the most precious gift I’d ever been given.
3. Lastly, if you have one primary thing you believe this eight week series has been about between you and Jesus, what would it be? The three distinct time periods from 1 Peter 1:3-9: 1. Now; 2. A little while; and 3. When Jesus is revealed. For, “In just a little while, he who is coming will come and will not delay.” Hebrews 10:37 <3 He who testifies to these things says, "Yes, I am coming soon." Amen. Come, Lord Jesus. The grace of the Lord Jesus be with God's people. Amen. Revelation 22:20-21
Week 7 1. & 2. I led a very sheltered and fairly easy life when my husband and I moved to teach on a very impoverished Indian reservation. It rocked my world. It broke me made me rely on God and increased His strength in me. It was so tough. Since then we have been a constant period of transition, but I trust in a way I would not have prior to that experience.
Week 8 1. When I read the verse and answered the question whose feet is Satan crushed under…I answered God’s then I reread the verse and I was like MINE? wow. I can’t wait because Satan seeks to hurt and deceive so many. I owe him a big ‘ole crushing.
2. Grace lifts my heart onto the mountain top of joy and thanksgiving when it wants to sink into the depths of loneliness and insecurity
3. I hate when Bible Studies end. 🙁 Sad face today. The one thing that keeps rolling around in my heart and mind from this study is pray to receive not achieve. Open my mouth wide to be filled with God has already prepared to give me. He will supply.
Beth, I could give you the biggest hug, you are such a sweetheart, and I am so grateful for your prayers and how God has used you in my life.
Katie G; Knoxville, TN; solo
Week 7
1 and 2. What you said on pgs 180-181 is true of my experience also, and it wasn’t a fun time either. It was the scariest, and the most dark time, but God was using it to make a permanent impression in my mind that abiding in Christ, and living the new creation life I was meant to live is my absolute good. I just can’t think the way I used to, because that road leads only to a horrible place, and a miserable way to live. There is a “before” and “after.” There has to be. We cannot afford to go back to that trash can. No, I have to have my mind continually set on things above, and tell myself truth everyday. I am a new creation. I am a slave of righteousness for holiness. This is who I am now. Only God can help me maintain the course.
Week 8
1. I will be especially happy to see that day come, because He will make it right, and everything that the enemy meant for evil…The Lord will execute justice. I love what you said that “everlasting joy and triumph will be our spoils of war.” It is a war, but He is on our side.
2. I could not think of one that day, but thought about it more this morning and came up with some:
Grace is…His extraordinary strength and ability imparted to the weak and the unable.
Grace is…the lifeline from Him, to us, providing us with true abundance.
3. The one primary thing that I believe this 8 week series has been about between Jesus and I has been this: Since I am a child of the light, sticking close to and requiring and abiding in the Light of the World is extrememly essential to me. His grace and peace was meant to accompany me on this journey.
I love you too Beth, I have the perfect Mexican meal in mind, huevos michoacanos from Don Gallos here in Knoxville. He is Faithful, Amen! Bless you today Beth.
I’m a few weeks behind as I just returned from a missions trip to Mexico a few days ago and now find myself on a quiet family get away…and I left my COTD book at home! Looking forward to a beautiful finish- it has been a joy opening God’s Word and learning truth this summer along all of my other Siestas! We have been taught by God!
We are doing the study this summer with a group of over 35 women at our church, FiveStone Community Church, in Garland, TX. But we started two weeks later than all of you, so we are not posting our comments at the same times.
I have been so encouraged each week by so many different things that the women are getting and learning. As always in a larger group there are such rich lessons to be taken from othes experiences.
Beth, Thank you for always teaching us in a humble, servant hearted and loving way through some hard subjects that need to be addressed. I thank The Lord for You!
In Christ,
Lisa
Perfectly fine that your group is on a different time schedule, Lisa! Many others are as well. So happy to have you on this journey with us!
Bonnie B., Florence, Colorado, Going Solo.
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you dear Miss Beth!!!
What a joy to share this time with you this summer in our Most Beloved WORD of God!
What a treasure His WORD is and you are to me. Thanks for giving us both…for sharing yourself and this Gospel with us…you have fulfilled Paul’s example with such Love, Joy, and Grace!
I love you dearly…thanks for the many, many, many hours you have put in on all our behalf…it’s Deeply Appreciated!!!
Wk 8 – question 3 is the one question I would like to answer for you today.
At the back of my workbook I used the pages for Insights and hand wrote 1 & 2 Thessalonians out on each days margins. 🙂
My favorite and most cherished page is on page 222 that is filled with all the lessons of GRACE TRUTHs from this study!!!
Pg 93 “Where sin is multiplied GRACE multiplied EVEN MORE.” Romans 5:20 & vs 21.
The word multiplied has two particular words in it that jumped out to me…lied and Plied.
To lie is an intensional untruth…which we would never want to do…because God hates lying!
But Plied means to work at diligently, to pursue steadily, to apply repeatedly…isn’t GRACE being multiPlied an awesomely wonderful thing!!! 6.24.14 (M).
Pg 126-127 Saved by GRACE through Faith…Eph 2:8-9.
Pg 134 “The GRACE of our Lord Jesu Christ be with you.” 1 Thess. 5:28
Pg 153 GRACE abounds EVEN MORE sung to me…7.8.14 (T).
Pg 159 “and the God of ALL GRACE, who called you to His Eternal Glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will Himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.” 1 Peter 5:10…this is now…7.11.14 (F)…one of my life verses and my August 2014 verse! I absolutely love that you include all the definitions with their meanings!
Pg173 Matt 10:22 is definitely a work of His Grace…that we may all endure to the end!!! 7.17.14
Pg 181 A gift of bright GRACE wrapped in black paper…7.18.14 (F).
Pg 184 “Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and our God and Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting consolation and good hope by GRACE,” 2 Thess 2:16-17…7.19.14 (Sat).
Pg 207-210 Day 5 Wk 8 was devoted to the GRACE of our Lord Jesus Christ…and Paul wanting it to be with us…you all! 🙂 2 Thess 3:18…7.24.14 (Th).
Bonus…Wk 8 question 2:
Pg 209 GRACE is the mirror that reflects a transparent heart full of His love through our faces!
One more thing before I go…I loved everything about Session 9!!!
The Gospel Running, the 10-Word Up Turn, and the book ends of GRACE from our dear brother Paul!!!
Gotta go I am watching my DayCare children and the babies gonna wake-up any minute and I need to get his bottle ready!
With Much Love Bonnie
One day after starting this study eight weeks ago, I found myself single again. I had a bad experience with my last boyfriend – suffice it to say that his parting words to me were, “You’re not worth anything, how could anyone love you?” After five years, I had finally found the courage to date again, and after a short four months, I found myself facing a Christian guy I thought was great, hearing him say all of the things that you’re supposed to: “It’s not you, it’s me, You’re going to make some guy really happy someday, I hope we can still be friends, et cetera” After seeking Godly counsel and praying about it, he had decided that he had some things he needed to fix in his life before he could ask someone else to be a part of his life.
Who was I to argue with that, a decision that had been prayed about, and friends who I trusted telling him to let me go? His walking away was certainly the best thing for him, but was it really the best thing for me? And still being friends? Please. Like it’s going to be easy for me to see you at church every week and wonder how you’re doing. Like it isn’t going to kill me a little bit every time you intentionally avoid me.
Believe it or not, I wasn’t angry with him, he was actually making a very mature decision. I was angry with myself for letting myself fall for someone. For letting someone into my life who hurt me. For thinking that I could be loved by someone. For believing that maybe that guy five years ago was wrong.
Over these eight weeks, I have struggled with things I’ve struggled with before: feeling like I’m good enough, believing that I can be loved, knowing that I must be willing to be hurt if I am to do what I’m called to do – share my life with those I minister to – and learning how to forgive myself, and to let myself be vulnerable. Maybe someday I’ll experience a relationship on earth that will be great, but for now I must be content in my Father’s unfailing love and mercy and grace.
Thank you for reminding me of His truth, for showing me again that I am loved by a God who died to know me, for encouraging me in the Word. That’s what I take away from this study, in more words than you probably wanted to read.
Now to him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy, to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.
Week7
1. P180 “God hijacks the sifting to strain the leaven and unleash our faith.” “A sifting doesn’t make you perfect, it makes you less prone to defeat.”
2. Yes, I’ve experienced a thorn in the flesh. What I once considered a curse, God has used to keep me totally dependent on Him. Even though the outside world may take pity, what I have inside “is being renewed day by day. For our momentary light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal.” God has changed my mindset to what you see is not what you get. I can have joy and peace in the most ridiculous of circumstances because of the things not seen.
Week 8
1. I will be glad for that day to come because the enemy will no longer be a threat and will no longer be able to mess with my family or me. I hope to make him sorry for attempting to destroy us.
2. Grace is a free gift, far more than we deserve.
3. I have so many things underlined, and this study was so meaningful. Some parts I love are on page 120. Children of the Day- “We are not in darkness.” “That means if you have trusted Christ as Savior, darkness cannot force you to stay. It can only harass you into believing that you belong there. You don’t.”
Page 136 “To crippling circumstances demanding the right to rule, this joy is the banging of the gavel: Motion denied. Joy is the gravity-defying grace to know that what we see is not all there is, and doom is not our destiny. Unceasing rejoicing is a song on constant replay that sings ‘I know my God will be faithful. I know He will turn this out well. I know what my God has promised. I know that He cannot fail.’ Joy throws the heavy cloak of hopelessness on the floor and pulls the splendid clothes (Isa 61:3) from the closet. It says that what we bear need not be what we wear.” Amen!
PS. Hungry for that Tex-Mex meal with the chocolate sheet cake!
Discussion from Week Seven: (To Love the Truth)
1. Good lesson–it really hit with this statement…”Sometimes we have to experience an onslaught of the Enemy to realize we want God.” The lesson reminded me of some points that Beth brought up in her Daniel study. The one that has always stuck with me is that Satan plants a potential antichrist in every generation because he does not know when Jesus will return and when his time is up. I love it that God can use ANYTHING (including darkness) for His glory–I’m all about that!
2. Yes, I’ve experienced a sifting season and also I have a thorn in my flesh. My thorn is there when I look in the mirror each day–reminding me that I’m not perfect–it is humbling–but in the same way, God made me this way for a reason and when He looks upon me, He sees perfection!
From Week Eight: (The Lord of Peace)
1. I never really caught this wording before…under MY feet! WOW–the Lord is so gracious to me. I owe the enemy for tricking and deceiving me when I was younger. He spun lies to me and made me feel like I had to be with this person. Wrong! How grateful I am to Jesus that He has rescued and DELIVERED me! (By the way, I loved the definition of this–right on mark for me!)
2. Grace is the Father looking at me and seeing Jesus.
3. This study reminds me in all of the hub-bub of life that I only have three time periods to be concerned with–now, a little while, and when Jesus comes! Hallelujah!
Thank you so much for serving the Lord by serving women, Beth. I loved this study and look forward to facilitating it in the fall.
Week 7
2. I do have a thorn in my flesh that the Lord has allowed to remain. However, it is but a fraction of what it was originally. At its peak, I thought it would kill me. The Lord drew me close to him and taught me some of the most important lessons in my walk with Him. I believe He didn’t remove it completely so I would never forget what He has done. I no longer fear it and I know I am victorious in Christ over it.
Week 8
1. I am most happy to know the enemy will be crushed because of what I have seen him do to my children. As sweet as it will be to see him get what is coming to him for all he has done to me, it will be even better to see him crushed for the pain inflicted upon my children.
This study has tendered me toward my church family, all believers and servants of God. Seeing Paul, Sylvanus, and Timothy’s heart for the church and reading about their concerns and prayers has made me see how we are a family. None of escape life even if we are in positions of leadership. We all need to run this race with Jesus in truth. We need to be transparent as we rely on Christ. We need to live on planet earth as we focus on Heaven. We must keep before us the reality the time is coming when Jesus will return for his church. And we must share the good news! We must love others and be burdened for their souls.
Thank you again, Beth for your obedience. I will continue to pray for you, your ministry, and your family. I love you,
Sharon, Mineola, Texas 7-29-’14
I finished this great study and on time! Can you believe that? It is a very encouraging study for Children of the Day to be reminded we have a hope and a future. Amen! Rom 16:20 was very reassuring to know the God of peace will crush Satan and keep us standing firmly. I used on of your Grace statements about healing in His wings when we are too angry to pray. That really hit home with me. At my age, 62, we’ve been dealing with the death of my sweet father-in-law and my grieving mother-in-law who were both 62. She is a strong lady and such an example for me. The section on grieving was very comforting. May God continue to bless you in your gift of women studies.
There were really two in my face confirmations during this study as I’ve been fervently praying that God would reveal his purposes (my ministry) to me. To see in black and white the We – The Effectual, You – The Affecting, and They – The Affected along with the lessons on my ministry have reassured me that God is listening. God is Equipping. AND, that God can and will use even me! I won’t be satisfied until I am living it out because God wired me with a compulsion to seek him and do the thing. Each lesson builds a strong foundation and the fruits are beginning to appear. God is so awesome. Thank you Jesus.
GREAT STUDY!
week 7:
1.God does & has used darkness to help me (&others) desire the light of His love & word!
2. which time?! mostly happens when pride rears its ugly head & suddenly humility is an upward turn & I rely upon the Lord again.
week 8:
1. I would make the devil sorry for how he has tricked (deceived) many family members…
2. Grace is looking for the good in a pre-friend who treats me as an enemy.
3. One of the primary things this study has reminded me is the importance of balancing the starkness of truth with the balm of grace….both are important yet both need to be in perfect harmony.
Whooooooooooooooooooooooooooo! Thank you Beth & those behind the scenes, man oh man did I love this study!
My takeaway? What resonates the loudest (among the raisin’!!!) is that it does not matter one bit who has not fought for me in the past. Or in the future if that be the case! What matters is that my Lord will fight for me as he has every day— His love is the Alpha and the Omega. I’m loved, cherished and FOUGHT FOR.
Now. About that Texas Sheet Cake.
Leanne
solo
Mississippi
Week 7:
1) I really enjoyed this lesson. I felt like it was stuff I knew but when you are the one going through hard times it is hard to see anything good in it. I liked Beth’s saying about how God gives us hard things sometimes to make us realize we need Him.
2) I kind of think my sifting season has been the past 3 years. Between building a house, living in a camper, losing a baby, praying for a baby, financial burden of building a house, a new church, etc. It has been hard on my marriage but also the best for my marriage if that makes sense. It has also made me draw closer to Jesus.
Week 8:
1) This is kind of a hard question for me. It is all scary to think that my children may live long enough and maybe even I will live long enough for the end of times. I just pray we are all strong enough in our faith.
2)
3) I have learned so much about Thessalonians. I didn’t realize how much I didn’t know. I think above all I have learned just more about my own gifts and just about myself when it comes to me being willing to open up and share.
Had a sifting and remix season almost 7 yrs ago with the break in my friendship with my best friend.
Thorn in my flesh is my ongoing & chronic health challenges
Grace is the ability to wait on His promise to you about your child when the world screams otherwise!
Primary: Break thru on 6/21/14, day before my 29th Wedding Anniversary! Confirmation at Church on 6/22/14. After 4+ yrs waiting for Him to heal my body, He spoke to me by saying:
Weight struggle-Hinderance=Trust. I have moved forward to victory. I’m MORE than an overcomer.
Beth, thank you for allowing me to take this amazing journey with you. Like the original Breaking Free, this study is right up there as far as changing the course of my life!! You are so loved 🙂
1. Yes the lesson was a big help especially when I think of past issues our church has dealt with… what man meant for confusion and conflict God used it and used it for the betterment of the church!
2.Yes I have been through a sifting season. I believe I’m on the tail of it. I shared at the very beginning of the study that I had just finished four months of counseling. These last two months haven’t been easy but have been amazing. The wound I once licked and Satan picked dealt with my parents more so my mother. The fact is they were young, not married and lost when I was born. Now they are older, one is on their sixth marriage the other is on their fourth and still lost. They’ve always put their needs first which put my siblings and I fending for ourselves. It’s truly the hardest thing I’ve ever had to deal with but I have found so much freedom in forgiving them and receiving a new perspective. I never thought I would be on this side it. I believe what God wanted for me from it was to know I’m completely His. That even though my parents willingly walked away. He never will. Now when I have a need, any need, I go to Him. Instead of getting angry all over again or trying to prove my independence of getting it done on my own, I now only pray and trust Him for it. I’ve also had to learn to allow Him to be not only my Father but Mother. That’s been the biggest struggle!!! Allowing Him to nurture me… truly nurture and take care of me. Something I’ve never had. But because of this season I now understand how I can honor my parents who’ve never truly honored me… By serving and loving God with all I am… What does that look like when it comes to my parents. Loving them, being a light and praying that before they leave this world their eyes are opened and they see Jesus. I can’t change the past or gain back any lost time. I can only go forward and believe they did the best they knew how. Now I can serve them and love them and pray that through it all even when it hurts they see Jesus not me but Jesus. He loves them so and wants it more than me… and that’s enough.
1. his lies and treatment of people
2. Grace is a second chance, a 3rd, 4th, 5th, however many it takes.
Its the strength for the fight that’s already been won.
3. I cant narrow it down to one thing. I’ve held on to every word and verse of every day. I can say that God has taught me that I should never give less of myself or love to family, ministry or people due to suffering or circumstances. I’m to be the light, not take it or hide it. I don’t get to choose who comes to it but to make the most of every opportunity and everyday until that great and glorious day of my Savior’s return!! That’s what I’ve learned and I’m not the same person because of it.
My life verse is John 3:30 and these past 8 weeks confirmed it.
There are no words for my gratitude and love for you Beth and the people who serve to make these things possible. Thank you. You all will never know the full fruits of your labor till glory. And when that day comes I look forwarding to hugging your necks and telling you all about it. Much love from Louisiana 🙂
Week 7
1. As difficult as it may be for us to think about, there are times when God uses the darkness for his ultimate goal. God may allow the handing over to the darkness here on earth so that the soul is saved from an eternity of darkness without Him. The darkness may be what it takes for a person to realize they need and want the Light. This may be how His purpose is served in bringing them to Him. I underlined and put stars beside the part at the end of Day 4: “Before God sends a delusion, He sends a disciple. We must go.” Acts 26:17-18~ “I now send you to them to open their eyes so they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that by faith in Me they may receive forgiveness of sins.”
2. Without a doubt, I experienced a season of sifting that began about 2 years ago. Through a devastation within our family, that literally turned our lives upside down, God used the absolute worst time of my life to draw near Him so that He could show me not only His love and His sufficiency to get through this, but that I had some terrible sin in my life that I needed to repent of & get rid of. Things like, pride, selfishness, insecurity, fear, guilt, shame, judgmental nature, control issues & unforgiveness. He used this nightmare to “wake me up,” so to speak, to my own depravity. The worst time of my life was used for my good.
Week 8
1. Beth, you wrote, “Christ, in His majestic mercy, makes His victory ours.” We share in Christ’s victory over our enemy. All that the enemy has done to try and destroy me will be turned back on him. He will not have the final say, but Christ will.
2. Grace washes the feet of her enemy
Grace remembers that Christ has washed her feet over and over again
3. “He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it.” 1 Thess. 5:24
I haven’t been following on this timeline even though I had planned on it. A friend decided to join me in doing it too and we got started late but we will do it all. Thank you so much for everything you do! It has been a blessing to us both to have done what we have so far.
1. I got past an adulterous situation. God closed that door and kept it closed. We have moved past it at this point in our marriage.–my thorn is reactive anger/harshness. God works through that also.
2. I do not think I saw the power of that scripture until I saw your love and emotion. Thanks for giving sooo much of yourself.
3. I believe my takeaway is that I do have a purpose to fulfill that no one else can fulfill. I must be in tune and strong in Bible reading/study and prayer to do the job He has set before me.
Dear Beth,
Betty M solo from the Dakota plains.
1. Yes! When I survived some tough times I used modern psychology, medication, relationship neediness, distractions of all types ISO relying on God and His Word. BUT GOD used those experiences to teach me why relying on those methods do not work and when I learned this truth I was set free from them all to teach others how walking in darkness can get us to really appreciate light when we see it and how it can be used as a blessing in the lives of others who are where we once were.
2. The sifting came when I suffered a series of losses so I could learn to lean on Jesus.
Week 8
1. I will be so happy to be rid of the torment of sin. I grieve everyday at my short comings so often I feel I have missed the mark of serving the way He’d like me to. In Heaven our service will be perfect!
The devil has raised so much havoc in our lives, he makes happy events become marred with anxiety and short tempers. He ruins so much good stuff in our lives.
Grace is that drop of blood which falls from the cross of Christ and splashes upon my body washing me free of the grit of sin and the stains of guilt and shame. Praise Him!!
What I have taken from these eight weeks. Since I put my pen to the first page…… my sister who had done many grievious wrongs in my life which actually ended up in my serving a short period of time in a jail cell. Her cancer has returned and when I saw her so weakened by the ravages of it at her daughter’s wedding I just cried. I do notknow how much time she has left though I would love to be spending precious time with her she chooses not to allow me to be a part of her life right now.
Our adult handicapped son developed a melenoma so once again we spent time in the hospital waiting room much like we did with him thirty years ago when he was battling a rare leukemia. We are not sure if it has spread as of this date.
Our youngest son married and he and his new wife are working on thier home so are living with us. It is going wonderfully well but it has been a very stress filled summer for us. Our marriage of 42 yrs has been under much attack by Satan and I pray he backs off and allows us to go on as we always have two comitted sin filled Christains trying to do our best for the Lord!
These lessons have taught me how what seems as hindrances can be especially used in our lives and how He can and will use darkness if it has to be to do His work for and to us!
I was especially moved by your prayer Beth, it always warms my heart to hear you pray for us as we do so much for you.
Can not wait to eat tex-Mex with you under a big Texas sized tree by my mansion in Heaven some day. Goodness knows we won’t have time restraints we have all of eternity!!
Bless you dear!
Betty M
I love Beth’s analogy (page 179) that God extends His leash on Satan…to serve divine purposes. I believe God allows people to be sifted to strengthen the faith of the one being sifted and as a testimony to many people watching. I believe God used my brain tumor 30 years ago as a sifting in my life. I had to wait two years from diagnosis until removal – a lot of faith building and a powerful testimony to many who were watching us during those two years. The craniotomy to remove the tumor left my left side partially paralyzed. I have no use of my left arm and walk rather crooked and drag my left leg. I think of this as my “thorn in the flesh” as it most definitely keeps me humble and leaning on God for support.
I somehow got behind a week (I think it had to do with Lubbock:) so I started on Week 8 yesterday. I don’t want to create an answer without fully doing all the work, BUT I’m most looking forward to that day when I can hold my grandson in my arms again! Will he still be 7 months old, or will he have grown?
PS. Thank you Beth for this most amazing study! Words do not exist to express how much I have learned over the past 9 weeks, at least I cannot come up with any:) In a few weeks, I will begin the year as a Core Group Leader with CBS and we are doing I and II Corinthians. I feel like I know Paul quite personally now and that can only help me to be more enlightened in the months to come! Again, thank you for all you do to minister to us ladies!!!
Romans 16:20 strikes a chord in me. Due to a loved one’s ongoing battle with Alzheimer’s and the resulting personality changes, I cling to peace and grace and rest knowing satan will be crushed.
The study is what I needed. Thank you Beth for listening to God and pouring out His lessons on paper for us.
Jesus is coming – Hallelujah!
Week Seven:
God does use darkness to bring us to the Light. It’s natural to want to come out of the dark to the Light.
My thorn in the flesh for many years has been my husband’s chronic disease. God has taught & is still teaching me through it.
Week Eight:
The devil has been at the root of so much havoc that it will be a victorious day when he is crushed under our feet. I’m thankful that Jesus goes head to head with him and He fights for me. The Message version of Ephesians 6:10-13 is so good!
Grace Word Picture: Grace is a hug instead of a slap.
This Bible study has been very encouraging to me. A few days after beginning the study my best friend’s husband died and it was such a sad time. I had already been in a dark season and this brought even more darkness. But God used the Bible study to remind me that I don’t belong to the dark. I am a child of the Light. The last paragraph on page 105 was a treasure to me listing what we find in God. I will sing the “song” in the middle of page 136: “I know my God will be faithful. I know He will turn this out well. I know what my God has promised. I know that He cannot fail.”
Thank you Beth for shining God’s light in the darkness through this study.
I’m a bit behind but I refuse to stop. I will not be defeated.
Satan, just back it on up cause I ain’t backing down!
Beth, thanks for the encouragement!!!
Week 7
1. Yes, I have experienced a couple of seasons of sifting in my life. I went through heartbreak and disillusionment during the first season, about 8 years ago. I discovered some false friends but a true God! He helped me see the truth and it did set me free. It was not easy and to this day, I have a hard time trusting other people.
Week 8
1. Romans 16:20 reassures me that Satan will be defeated!
2. Grace is unmerited love poured out on the undeserving (me.)
3. Let no one deceive you in any way. 2 Thessalonians 2:3
Thank you, Beth, for a great study!
Week 7
1. Day 4 explanation helped greatly to understand that God can use the power of darkness to serve divine purposes. I found the OT and NT examples of Job and Peter especially eye-opening as both were godly men used by God but something in them had to come out to unleash their faith.
2. After studying this information on Day 4, it hit me I believe my husband and I are currently in a sifting that God is hi-jacking to remove trash from our lives and deepen our faith and trust in Him alone so He can use us together for His purposes after it is over. This sifting is my husband’s recent diagnosis of cancer. we pray that Satan gets no ground in it and God uses it for His divine purposes which so far we see Him reconciling us to each other, experiencing His presence and peace mightily, deepening our faith and surrender to His will, directing us to an excellent cancer center and many other things.
Week 8
1. I will be happy for that Day to come so Satan can’t deceive and destroy fledgling or mature faith in anyone. I hope to make him sorry for deceiving my family members into false thinking that the Bible is contradictory so studying God’s word is not useful for life.
2. I did not write one but found pleasure and purpose in reading Beth’s and underlined “Grace treats us like we already are what we fear we’ll never become.”
3. The primary thing that affected me the most was Video of Session 4 where Beth encouraged us through God’s word to abound in love unrestrained and keep opening your heart again even though there could be a high cost pouring your energy and life into a person. This brought tears to my eyes when she said this and helped me to reconsider opening my heart back up to my husband and walk the road of cancer with him. Thank you Beth for pouring your life into the study of God’s word and being obedient to God’s calling of teaching and ministering to us. God has used this study in mighty ways in my life and I miss it already.
Crystal, Livonia, Michigan, Solo
Yea!! I did it and finished on time…so thankful for it! AND I got up early in the morning to meet with God!!
Pg. 205 – Reread Romans 16:20.
1. I owe the devil for this crazy mind that he keeps wanting to take captive. He doesn’t allow me to live in peace with the pit I have come out of but keeps inviting me back.
2. No Word Picture…Sorry:-)
3. Be a Daughter of the Day! God spoke to clearly that I am to put kids back into public school and be light in my sphere of influence there. Don’t pull away from society. Also…God is NOT frustrated that I come to Him in prayer AGAIN. He loved it and I am not bothering Him! SOO freeing!!
Thank you Beth. Love you so much and am so blessed by you. Can’t wait to “see” you in Fort Wayne. I also judge all Mexican Restaurants by their chips and salsa. We do NOT have Papasitos in Michigan. Only been to Texas once and I am still dreaming of those chips and salsa!
Week7
2. I think I might be going through a sifting season right now. In a nutshell: High paying job vs. family. I am starting to see that money can be made and lost, but my daughter’s childhood only happens once.
Week 8
2. My grace picture is: Grace is the crutches, wheelchair and gurney that keeps us moving forward.
3. The days on how we all have a ministry hit me like a ton of bibles. I have no real talent, but I know my purpose is out there somewhere.
Thank you Beth for a wonderful 8 weeks!!
Week 7 ~
1. Wow…this day was so amazing…I learned that when I have been reluctant to change my thoughts (or downright resisting) God has allowed me to follow through with the sin I am flirting with. While this choice was mine and I needed to ask for forgiveness, God has used my sin to sift me and turn a mirror on the reality of the sin in my heart. It also causes me to be humbled before Him. He does this for my benefit! I have been looking back at times of my life where I have fallen into sin and seen them like a black mark forever marring any future I have, without value. I saw no redeeming factor except to use as a bad example someday. This lesson gave me a new perspective, “a gift of bright grace wrapped in black paper”. This grace proves that He loves me enough to go deeper into my heart and fix the broken parts so that I will be useful to Him. I cant even describe the joy in that knowledge.
2. He has used this sifting to expose my heart and clean it out. The story of Peter being sifted spoke to me the most. He sinned and denied Christ in the midst of being sifted and yet Jesus met him there and forgave him. It gives me hope for the times when I am sifted and fail. I am thankful for the times He has allowed it so I can be made stronger for the future.
Week 8 ~
1. I will be especially happy to see the day when satan’s head is crushed because I am so tired of hearing all of the ways he has empowered humans who tortured, killed and harassed women and children. I am sick of the evil and ready to see innocence again.
2. Grace walked to the edge of the darkness and carried me home so I could feel the light of the Son on my face again.
3. This 8 weeks has been about learning to be brave and be who God has made me to be. Free in the brightness of His grace. 🙂
Beth~ thank you for being brave, for tackling the hard topics and not being swayed from the path He has set before you. You inspire me. Thank you.
My word picture: Grace is the nail in the cross which sets us free.
To sum up if I can quote your words on the last page: Be brave. Be bold. Love big. We won’t be here long. Take the torch of the gospel to a land of souls and shadows. May that be so in my life.
I will reread these epistles often.
Thank you for a great study!
Grace is God’s love, forgiveness and embrace pouring over me each new day!
Take home message: Daughter of the day, Women of the light…there is Peace in His Presence!
Grace is the answer coming in bits and pieces when there seems to be no answer.
I am sad to see this study over. This is my third year to participate in summer bible study. A true blessing. From Day 1 of study when you directed us to research our name-I knew God had ME in this study for a reason. God has helped me see what my ministry is-that I do have one. I don’t have to do BIG things. There are a lot of little things that need to be done. It takes a lot of us to get all the little things done. “We have out work cut out for us. We’ve been called to a hard world. “. I will embrace my ministry with new energy. Thank you
So, with every great intention of starting this Study…it didn’t happen. Bummed about that but know that it was in God’s timing. I will be viewing all the videos and comments as the new school year beginnings.
This group is great for prayers and such. So please keep my family in your prayers.
This has been a summer of tests/trails, etc. My husband was released from surgery and medical test and approved to go back to driving an 18-wheeler. However, his work has still not let him drive, but I am truly thankful that he does still have a job.
On the day he was released and approved to drive again, praises of thankfulness rang out; it has been almost a 7 month journey. It was a short lived celebration. My daughter meet us at a ballgame terrified her now ex-boyfriend had beat her up and held her against her will. She has pressed charges and has a temporary order of protection on file. Keep our family in your prayers as the long-term order requires a court date.
Pray for the safety of my family as he retaliated and attack my mothers home.
Thank you to this wonderful group of ladies. Maybe we will meet one day on earth but if not I will see y’all in Heaven!
I am a pastor’s wife from Arkadelphia, Arkansas. My beautiful 23-year old daughter-in-law was diagnosed with breast cancer in January. Her and my son were in the middle of a campus ministry internship. Through the spring and chemo, her light has never went out. Yesterday, she had a bilateral mastectomy along with some lymph nodes removed. Everything went well. I did week 7 Day 5 yesterday after the surgery. Tears streamed. Everyone would say how strong she has been, but there were times she cried, we all did. But through it all Michelle Mays has been faithful and so has her God. Thank you for bringing us the Word.
So thankful to hear Michelle’s surgery went well. Praise the Lord, He has sustained you through His Word!
This was a wonderful study. I have struggled with being a “Mary” worshiper in a “Martha” world. This study talked about balance and helped me realize that I could share God’s love through my work and attitude “where I am planted”.
Thank you, Beth, for continuing to put so much of yourself into each study. You have taught me how to have a constant, close relation to Christ in my daily life.
Melinda from Arkadelphia, AR
Carolyn from Idaho, solo
I jumped on this study as my regular Bible study group does not meet in the summer. Because of several trips away from home, I opted for the electronic version to avoid lugging a print book. That worked well for a few weeks until I heard about a group of ladies from a church in town (not my home church) were studying Beth’s “Jesus the One and Only.” Opting for a “double dose,” I tried to keep up with both until I realized that I would gain much more from the face to face discussion with my new sisters in the Lord.
I have watched Beth’s “Children of the Day” videos and read the bits and pieces of the blog responses. I intended to “confess” (grin, as Beth says) that I’m a Thessalonians “drop out,” but I am just on pause here. Thanks to the website, I can continue the Summer Siesta after my current Bible study ends and before my fall one begins. Thank you for making this available!
We are about 2/3 through the Jesus study, and I encourage others to engage in this one in the future. While I’m familiar with the parables and events of Jesus’ life, Beth, as usual, digs deeper. I don’t know what I’m walking away with yet, but the concepts of prayer in Session 6 of Jesus the One and Only are so instructive.
Blessings on all Siesta Sisters from your absent one!
I am loving this study but I will be one of the ones finishing in October. I have enjoyed writing out the scripture. The lesson and scripture for I Thes.4:16-17 has been on my mind this week. My half sister passed away 2 yrs. ago on Aug. 1st. I never got a chance to meet her but I prayed lots of prayers for her. I believe that one day I will get to meet up with her in Heaven. I will also see grandbabies that we lost and my mama that I miss so much, but especially my Jesus. Such a glorious promise!
1. I have often struggled with this question in my Old Testament and New testament reading. The idea of God “hardening their hearts” or “allowing a thorn” in those He loves did not make sense to me. However, I feel so encouraged by this teaching as I think I understand clearly now that even this is motivated by love. If it takes something incredibly hard (allowing the darkness) to bring us closer to Him, He will do it. He knows the beginning and the end and knows our hearts, so is uniquely qualified to know what amount of darkness we can handle! This was very encouraging to me.
2. Other than my conversion experience, I do not know of a “before and after” time of sifting in my life, unless I am in it right now, which is entirely possible. I am in a time of extreme transition and upheaval and learning day by day to lean entirely on the Lord in almost every way. I do not see the end of this time right now, but I do imagine that when I can look back on it, I will remain changed by it and will lean on the lessons learned for the rest of my days.
3. I love that God is the “God of peace.” I am a peace-maker and I can become so very sad and discouraged when I look around in my personal life, and even in the world at large at the destruction Satan has wrought, particularly knowing that in my own strength I can not combat it. That God will bring it all together in peace is my greatest comfort and gives me such courage. He will do it.
4. Grace is giving me the chance over and over again to see Christ more clearly when I get Him wrong.
5. God is in the details of my life. He will use words crafted on a page (in the scriptures thousands of years ago, and from Beth’s pen a year ago) to speak directly into the most intimate details of my life in real time to show me that He loves me and that He is FOR ME. That is mind boggling to me. I am amazed by His love and grace.
I loved this study so much… and there has never been a better time in my life FOR it.
For the 8 weeks of this study I have been doing an internship in Washington, DC. The call to be a “Child of the Day (or Light)” and to “walk worthy” has meant so much to me. I have been living in a home with nonbelievers and have had the opportunity to share my faith with them. Though they haven’t claimed it as their own yet, I beleive they are starting to see that God isn’t who they thought He was. What a comfort to dive into this study after hard conversations with them about the Gospel… about the truth. Truly getting “on the job experience” being a light in a dark place.
1&2: This section was really helpful for me because I am starting to understand/come to terms with a difficult period of my life where I was sorely tempted, bitter, and very much in the darkness. This lesson helped me to continue working through my understanding, and I know that this was a sifting season for me, as it clearly has a before and after, and I can see how much I grew as a result of it and how I really needed that season in order to learn humility, trust and many other lessons.
I think God really wanted me to take from this lesson that I am a child of the light. In my family, we have a legacy of bitterness and darkness. I can overcome that. God loves me for who I am. He teaches me and hears my prayers. I don’t have to do it alone, and I can’t do it alone. God fights for me, and with him, the darkness will be eliminated forever.
1. I found myself in a deep, deep, trench that was beyond what I imagined to find myself in ever. Before my sifting, everything was ok to be around. I did not mind it on television, or even in the books I was reading. Now, I avoid it. I need to space. It was this immersion into the “culture” of the sin that I became complacent. I know now to guard my heart, to watch what I am letting into my life, not only so that I can focus on God more, so that my son sees the effort, and want to take these views on as well.
2. Romans 16:20 will definitely become a verse that will be one I cling to for the rest of my life. Life just plain ol’ bites sometimes and at times I feel down. Sometimes the battle just doesn’t feel like I can win, but I know now that I do not fight alone. In fact, if I have faith enough to believe God can win the fight, that He will go before me and lay the enemy at my feet. That when the dust settles on the field of battle, his head will be found under my feet, is enough to get up and keep going. Knowing that victory is in my grasps motivates me and makes me want to learn to use my sword properly.
3. I have a slight obsession with my blankie. Grace is like wrapping myself in my blankie on a rainy day, after a long hard day. It is the warms that seeps in after a sip of freshly brewed coffee.
4. I was excited to start this study, I always am. In fact, my best friend hid the book from me so I would not start before her since we were doing it together. I didn’t know why God put me here in this study, only that I was hungry for a Word! He brought me peace. My mind was in chaos, just filthy. Through this study, it was cleaned out and now there’s a lot more room for God in there! Strongholds are hard to overcome, difficult to completely forget, but I know now that with Christ, and with the help of the Holy Spirit, I AM victorious. That I can place God’s word where lies once lived.
Thank you for this truly life changing study!
Week 7
1. I had actually skipped Day 4 when I came to it, because it was a little confusing to me, and gone on to complete the remainder of the study. I competed week 7, day 4 today, and it did help sort out some concepts for me. I am so glad that God can use anything he chooses, and that He is in control.
2. I have experienced sifting seasons, and I do have what I think might be a few thorns in the flesh.
Week 8
1. Definitely will be happy for that day to come, just can’t put into words how I owe him one and what I want to make him sorry for.
2. Grace is a lifetime & eternity of blessings I do not deserve.
3. This study has been a reminder to me that God has blessed me with so much Grace, Mercy & Peace, and that He wants me to receive from Him daily the equipping to be used by Him, for His glory.
Just want you to know that we are starting right back over next week, with a larger group, to do this study, with your teaching videos! Thank you so much!
Tiffany, Summerville, SC
The first thing that stands out to me about the onslaught of the enemy is concerning something in my life right now. I have several people in my life that I have to realize that God may be handing them over to the devil to save their soul. That was HUGE for me. I am not in control of their choices. Also, I realized that some people who have read and heard the word may CHOOSE the dark side. I have to trust God in this process. For me personally, it has not been to that extreme but I have battled low self esteem my entire life and not feeling worthy of telling others about God. This leads me to my before and after part. Before I was insecure and now I am BOLDER FOR CHRIST AND SHARING HIS WORD. I truly feel a calling to woman’s ministry but do not feel equipped but am trusting Him. I am a visual learner and the statement gave me chills that said ” a gift of bright grace wrapped in black paper”.
This study has been so refreshing simply making me accept that I am a child of the day and of the light. I am so thankful for that. I am so thankful for Romans 16:20 because it is our joy and peace in how all of this suffering ends. The devil has stolen so many moments from us. I am so thankful to rest assured that peace will be involved… “The God of peace will soon crush Satan under my feet”. Something to truly hold on to.
Beth thank you agin for such a personal way of sharing your journey to encourage all of us. You are such the encourager and I am forever grateful. 🙂
Disillusion can work for our good, for our freedom and for our spiritual maturity. Only Jesus Christ cannot disillusion us. Wisdom comes from disillusionment. It draws us to real worship toward God. He is our peace.
God may test us to prove man’s faith genuine.
On sifting/or thorn in the flesh-Just growing as a Christian and having more compassion, love and showing others I care has brought me closer to the Lord. My mother died of cancer when I was younger. My sister who has three kids went through a divorce a few years ago. Many people are hurting and it has made me thankful for so many things. I am not by any means perfect, but I am still learning.
I think my past feelings of rejection, hurt and not being good enough has been my thorn in the flesh for years, but I am still trusting God to be enough. He is all I need, my Security.
I hope Satan will be sorry for making we feel that God cannot use me for His honor and glory_that everything I do fails and is worthless.
GRACE-
Grace is God’s righteousness that cannot be measured,
It is God’s goodness that cannot be shaken,
It is God’s peace in our hearts,
It is understanding and wisdom that only God can give.
Grace is our security and casts out fear,
It is God’s love and our Hope,
It is God’s protection for us,
It is our Salvation and God’s praise.
Grace is not letting circumstances overwhelm me,
Grace is not letting situations steal my joy,
Grace is not letting fear rob me of His peace,
Grace is not letting uncertain moments paralyze me,
Grace is not letting tribulation shake me,
Grace is not letting trials imprison me,
Grace is not letting struggles discourage me,
Grace is not letting chains hold me,
Grace is not letting anything break me,
Grace is knowing God will never forget me,
He will take me and hide me in His everlasting arms forever! For Jesus is my Victory!
It is knowing if I fall and cannot lift myself up,
the Lord will carry me.
If I cry out and cannot lift my head,
the Lord will comfort me,
If I cannot see and I am blinded,
My Lord will take me by the hand and guide me
If I cannot speak a word,
the Lord will show His goodness and righteousness,
If I take my last breathe,
My God will bring me into His presence…
Nothing can compare to who God is!
Grace is healing,
It is knowing God is sufficient,
It is acceptance and security,
It is our hope, joy and peace!
Grace is Forgiveness,
Grace is our Sustainer of Life,
Grace is recognizing who God is,
All Honor and Glory to our God
For No earthy treasure could be worth more than
what He has given to us…GRACE. ~joyce