Day 5 is FULL of encouragement to move our families in the right direction!
We are encouraged to be Tide Turners for our families, churches, communities.
I do not know more than one family that has been Christ lovers for generations. Most families I know have either come to know Jesus in the past 2 generations or have not know the Lord for many generations. Priscilla talks about a few reasons for this epidemic. Parents not teaching or children not being teachable. Either way, its not ok!
Ladies, we MUST pass the baton of faith to our children, friends, neighbors and even our enemies <---that last one may require quite a bit of prayer:)
I leave you with the scriptures that support this message.
I love you ladies! See you tomorrow to start off Week 2!!
-Randi
Proverbs 11:14
For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.
Proverbs 14:12
There is a way which seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.
Judges 21:25
In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes.
Joshua 24:15
If it is disagreeable in your sight to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves today whom you will serve: whether the gods which your fathers served which were beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living; but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.
Sunday, June 30, 2013
Day 4- Empowered to Act!
Good Morning Ladies!
Let me apologize for being a few days late on my posts. I have been at home with my Mom and family while we laid my Uncle to rest. It has been a beautiful time of restoration, grieving, loving and praising! The time that we have been able to spend together has been sweet but exhausting. I just didn't feel I was able to put my best into the posts these past few days. Thank you for understanding. Today I will post both Day 4 and Day 5!
Let's get to it!
Fill in the blank answers below from page 27
The Judges were called by God and then empowered by God to unite the people of God for the purpose of standing against the enemies of God.
Did you look up any of the verses from Judges?
I looked up the following two verses
Judges 2:18
"Whenever the Lord raised up a judge for them, he was with the judge and saved them out of the hands of their enemies as long as the Judge lived; for the Lord relented because of their groaning under those who oppressed and afflicted them."
Judges 3:10
"The Spirit of the Lord came on him, so that he became Israel's judge and went to war. The Lord gave Cushan-Rishanthaim king of Aram into the hands of Othniel, who overpowered him.
The common theme between each of the verses listed in the study is the Spirit of the Lord comes over his people to help them achieve His goals for them.
I love how God chose to use certain people for such visible positions. The fact that He chose seriously flawed people to fill these positions gives me hope that He can use you and I to do His work!
'God handpicked people for the job who were terribly flawed, then empowered them to fulfill these roles in spite of their shortcomings. He chose them from circles that would have seemed inappropriate to observers.'
1 Corinthians 1:27-31
'But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 28 God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things- and the things that are not- to nullify the things that are, 29 so that no one may boast before Him. 30 It is because of Him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God- that is , our righteousness, holiness and redemption. 31 Therefore, as it is written, "Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord."
The role of the Judges-
1. Unify God's people
2. Fight against the oppression of the enemy
3. Operate by the empowerment of God's spirit
What connections do you see between the judges' role in the Old Testament and the role of modern believers as members of the family of God? Use the references in the margin for guidance if necessary.
I feel like we have the same role as the Judges did in their time.
Psalm 133:1
Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together in unity!
Ephesians 6:12
For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.
Micah 3:8
I am filled with power- with the Spirit of the Lord.
How do you think the church fares today in being one body of believers? Think of specific examples to support evidence for or against this goal.
Ohhh, this is a sticky one. I do not feel that a group of believes we do a very good job. We need to remember that we are all on the same team! If we boil down the different denominations to their basic principles, they are the same. With the same goals, to share the Gospel and Gods love.
Ephesians 4:2-3
Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.
The four attributes that are necessary in helping maintain harmony and accord among believers.
1. Be completely humble and gentle
2. Be patient
3. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit
4. Persistence
Which of these attributes is the hardest for you to maintain right now and why?
I think I fail in each of these at different times and in different situations. Being gentle and patient are on the top of the list, though.
As Priscilla points out on page 31, spiritual warfare exists. We are in constant battle with the enemy. Victory requires constant effort to take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ. (2 Corinthians 10:5) Only through God's empowerment were the judges able to deliver the people out of oppression and into God's freedom and governance. It is the same with us. For us to be successful for Christ we must be diligent in our efforts to be obedient.
Ladies, as we move forward with our day let us really think about our fellow Christians with love and understanding. Just because they may worship a little differently does not mean they do not love and serve the same God. We all have the same goals. Or we should. Let's be in prayer for patience, persistence, gentleness and humility.
I love you all and see you again in a bit:)
-Randi
Let me apologize for being a few days late on my posts. I have been at home with my Mom and family while we laid my Uncle to rest. It has been a beautiful time of restoration, grieving, loving and praising! The time that we have been able to spend together has been sweet but exhausting. I just didn't feel I was able to put my best into the posts these past few days. Thank you for understanding. Today I will post both Day 4 and Day 5!
Let's get to it!
Day 4- Empowered to Act!
We have nothing going for us except what God puts into us! #LessonsLearnedFromGideon
Fill in the blank answers below from page 27
The Judges were called by God and then empowered by God to unite the people of God for the purpose of standing against the enemies of God.
Did you look up any of the verses from Judges?
I looked up the following two verses
Judges 2:18
"Whenever the Lord raised up a judge for them, he was with the judge and saved them out of the hands of their enemies as long as the Judge lived; for the Lord relented because of their groaning under those who oppressed and afflicted them."
Judges 3:10
"The Spirit of the Lord came on him, so that he became Israel's judge and went to war. The Lord gave Cushan-Rishanthaim king of Aram into the hands of Othniel, who overpowered him.
The common theme between each of the verses listed in the study is the Spirit of the Lord comes over his people to help them achieve His goals for them.
I love how God chose to use certain people for such visible positions. The fact that He chose seriously flawed people to fill these positions gives me hope that He can use you and I to do His work!
'God handpicked people for the job who were terribly flawed, then empowered them to fulfill these roles in spite of their shortcomings. He chose them from circles that would have seemed inappropriate to observers.'
1 Corinthians 1:27-31
'But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 28 God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things- and the things that are not- to nullify the things that are, 29 so that no one may boast before Him. 30 It is because of Him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God- that is , our righteousness, holiness and redemption. 31 Therefore, as it is written, "Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord."
The role of the Judges-
1. Unify God's people
2. Fight against the oppression of the enemy
3. Operate by the empowerment of God's spirit
What connections do you see between the judges' role in the Old Testament and the role of modern believers as members of the family of God? Use the references in the margin for guidance if necessary.
I feel like we have the same role as the Judges did in their time.
Psalm 133:1
Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together in unity!
Ephesians 6:12
For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.
Micah 3:8
I am filled with power- with the Spirit of the Lord.
How do you think the church fares today in being one body of believers? Think of specific examples to support evidence for or against this goal.
Ohhh, this is a sticky one. I do not feel that a group of believes we do a very good job. We need to remember that we are all on the same team! If we boil down the different denominations to their basic principles, they are the same. With the same goals, to share the Gospel and Gods love.
Ephesians 4:2-3
Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.
The four attributes that are necessary in helping maintain harmony and accord among believers.
1. Be completely humble and gentle
2. Be patient
3. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit
4. Persistence
Which of these attributes is the hardest for you to maintain right now and why?
I think I fail in each of these at different times and in different situations. Being gentle and patient are on the top of the list, though.
As Priscilla points out on page 31, spiritual warfare exists. We are in constant battle with the enemy. Victory requires constant effort to take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ. (2 Corinthians 10:5) Only through God's empowerment were the judges able to deliver the people out of oppression and into God's freedom and governance. It is the same with us. For us to be successful for Christ we must be diligent in our efforts to be obedient.
Ladies, as we move forward with our day let us really think about our fellow Christians with love and understanding. Just because they may worship a little differently does not mean they do not love and serve the same God. We all have the same goals. Or we should. Let's be in prayer for patience, persistence, gentleness and humility.
I love you all and see you again in a bit:)
-Randi
Wednesday, June 26, 2013
Day 4- A little bit late;)
Hi ladies!
We are nearly through our first week of this Blog. It seems like this has been a crazy long week! Today is going to be very busy for my family and I as we lay my uncle to rest. My full post will not come until later tonight. I simply won't have the time until then. Thanks for showing up! See you tonight.
~Randi
Tuesday, June 25, 2013
Day 3- God's Story, My Story
Good morning ladies!
I hope you all had a good night and were able to work through Day 3.
How are you feeling about the study so far? Are you overwhelmed at all?
I was speaking to a dear friend about this study the other day. This is her first bible study, ever. So, I feel honored that she chose to do her first one with me! As I mentioned on Day 1, the only thing that qualifies me to lead this study is the fact that I am saved. Nothing more. She shared with me that she felt overwhelmed with the study. She wants to make sure that she does it right and completes each question and reads each line. She was speaking right to my heart! I feel the same way! I want to lead this study so perfectly that each of you walk away on FIRE!! But, guess what. God, is not asking for me or my friend to be perfect. He is asking that we show up and do our best. God can do a whole lot with our best! Much more than we can. So, I encourage all of us to show up for this study and give it our best, what ever that may be in each of our seasons. Let us begin with prayer.
Lord, I thank you for blessing me beyond my dreams. Thank you for my family that makes me feel whole. Thank you for caring so much about me that you would have a relationship with me. Lord, I ask for an open heart and a willing spirit as I go through this study. I ask that I take the lessons away from this that you want me to take. Lord, I ask that the ladies participating are so blessed by this study that they move forward and share what they have learned from you. I pray these things in your sweet name, Jesus. Amen
Let's show up and do our best!
Day 3- God's Story, My Story
Here is a message that is so straight forward and simple.
The main message of the entire Bible is God's redemption of humanity!
If you had to pinpoint where you fall in this cycle right now, where would it be and why?
There are 3 cycles of redemption seen in the scriptures:
Redemption Cycle #1. From Adam to Noah during the antediluvian (pre-flood)
Redemption Cycle #2. Post flood to the time of Daniel and Ezra
Redemptive Cycle #3. Rebuilding the temple under the leadership of Ezra to the conception of the church
I, (our names here) am a part of the grand story of redemption seen in the Bible.
How amazing is that thought? We are a part of the redemption story! God is not done with us!
If you had to choose a stage in the cycle to define our community right now, which stage would it be? What adjectives would you use to describe your own community right now?
I feel like our community is in the "decline of God's people" stage. God is not the center of our community any longer. He is rarely the center of our individual lives.
Adjectives- immoral, cruel, self serving, etc.
What are some of the signs that reveal God's mercy for our culture today?
I think the fact that we still have the beauty of daily blessings of health, family, love. What do you think?
What does Judges 2:18 reveal about the heart of God for his people, even when they're suffering the rightful consequences of their sin?
God has compassion and love for His people.
Today's lesson ends with talking about our individual roles in God's divine redemption of us. Many of us are in the role of mother, wife, friend. I feel similarly to Priscilla about my role as mother to my children. I truly feel like God gave them to me and me to them. I take my role of momma very seriously. I make a ton of mistakes but at the end of the day I am a better person because I know there are little eyes watching my every move. It is my job to be the very best momma I can be and to teach them about the Lord in all aspects of their lives. Not just on Sunday.
I would love to hear about the role God has given you in his redemption story.
I leave you with this. Where ever you are at in life, what ever season you are in. Stop right now and pray to God thanking Him for His redemption of us. Thank Him for your role in the story. Ask for His guidance in your role.
Ladies, God chose us! We must choose Him every day! Show up and do the best you can for Him. That is what He asks of us. He is our Father. Let us honor Him in all that we do. We are accountable to Him.
I love you ladies! See you tomorrow!
~Randi
I hope you all had a good night and were able to work through Day 3.
How are you feeling about the study so far? Are you overwhelmed at all?
I was speaking to a dear friend about this study the other day. This is her first bible study, ever. So, I feel honored that she chose to do her first one with me! As I mentioned on Day 1, the only thing that qualifies me to lead this study is the fact that I am saved. Nothing more. She shared with me that she felt overwhelmed with the study. She wants to make sure that she does it right and completes each question and reads each line. She was speaking right to my heart! I feel the same way! I want to lead this study so perfectly that each of you walk away on FIRE!! But, guess what. God, is not asking for me or my friend to be perfect. He is asking that we show up and do our best. God can do a whole lot with our best! Much more than we can. So, I encourage all of us to show up for this study and give it our best, what ever that may be in each of our seasons. Let us begin with prayer.
Lord, I thank you for blessing me beyond my dreams. Thank you for my family that makes me feel whole. Thank you for caring so much about me that you would have a relationship with me. Lord, I ask for an open heart and a willing spirit as I go through this study. I ask that I take the lessons away from this that you want me to take. Lord, I ask that the ladies participating are so blessed by this study that they move forward and share what they have learned from you. I pray these things in your sweet name, Jesus. Amen
Let's show up and do our best!
Day 3- God's Story, My Story
Here is a message that is so straight forward and simple.
The main message of the entire Bible is God's redemption of humanity!
God has a rescue plan for us. It goes in a four part cycle.1. Rejection of God's way
2. Decline of God's people3. Consequences allowed by God's hand4. Restored relationship to God's presence
There are 3 cycles of redemption seen in the scriptures:
Redemption Cycle #1. From Adam to Noah during the antediluvian (pre-flood)
Redemption Cycle #2. Post flood to the time of Daniel and Ezra
Redemptive Cycle #3. Rebuilding the temple under the leadership of Ezra to the conception of the church
I, (our names here) am a part of the grand story of redemption seen in the Bible.
How amazing is that thought? We are a part of the redemption story! God is not done with us!
If you had to choose a stage in the cycle to define our community right now, which stage would it be? What adjectives would you use to describe your own community right now?
I feel like our community is in the "decline of God's people" stage. God is not the center of our community any longer. He is rarely the center of our individual lives.
Adjectives- immoral, cruel, self serving, etc.
What are some of the signs that reveal God's mercy for our culture today?
I think the fact that we still have the beauty of daily blessings of health, family, love. What do you think?
What does Judges 2:18 reveal about the heart of God for his people, even when they're suffering the rightful consequences of their sin?
God has compassion and love for His people.
Today's lesson ends with talking about our individual roles in God's divine redemption of us. Many of us are in the role of mother, wife, friend. I feel similarly to Priscilla about my role as mother to my children. I truly feel like God gave them to me and me to them. I take my role of momma very seriously. I make a ton of mistakes but at the end of the day I am a better person because I know there are little eyes watching my every move. It is my job to be the very best momma I can be and to teach them about the Lord in all aspects of their lives. Not just on Sunday.
I would love to hear about the role God has given you in his redemption story.
I leave you with this. Where ever you are at in life, what ever season you are in. Stop right now and pray to God thanking Him for His redemption of us. Thank Him for your role in the story. Ask for His guidance in your role.
Ladies, God chose us! We must choose Him every day! Show up and do the best you can for Him. That is what He asks of us. He is our Father. Let us honor Him in all that we do. We are accountable to Him.
I love you ladies! See you tomorrow!
~Randi
Day 2- You Again?
Good Morning Ladies!
First, allow me to get a few house keeping items out of the way.
I am new to blogging and I am still trying to work out the kinks on a few things such as the scheduled posting time, the comment section and E-mail alerts to you guys when I do post.
So, please stay with me and when you see something that needs attention please email me and then pray that I can fix it:)
I truly feel that God has His hand on this study. If there is anything that is distracting or keeping you from fully participating please let me know.
Note- To make a comment at the end of the post just click on the small pencil that is at the bottom of the post. It will then open up to a comment box for you to leave your thoughts.
Let's get started!
Whoa!
Today's lesson was so very directed right at me! I'm sure that Priscilla wrote it with me in mind...well, maybe not me specifically. Isn't it crazy how God puts you in the right place at the right time to hear His message for you? CRAZY! This happens to me all the time.
As I was reading about the relationship between Israel and Midian I was thinking to myself, " Oh, they should have just listened to God's commands! What was wrong with these people! If God told me to do something I know that I would run right out and do it...with a smile on my face." And then I turned the page.
I have totally disobeyed God, many times. I have had people in my life that weren't that good of an influence on me. In turn, I was not that good of an influence on them. Those relationships did not bring out the best in me. I kept them around because they weren't that bad. Then, years later I find out that they were.
Our decisions WILL effect us in the years to come! This is a fact!
Our Children will have to deal with the consequences of our decisions. I know that I do not want my kids to have to 'deal' with anything that I have done. At the end of my days I want my decisions to be a blessing to them. I don't want anything I have done to be a hurdle for them to have to overcome. Any time that they might have to spend 'dealing' with my mistakes is time they will not get to spend with the Lord. Be a blessing not a hurdle!
If you are not sure about what I am saying then I encourage you to go back and read through 1 Samuel 15:1-9 and then 1 Samuel 30:1-3
-What did God command His people to do?
-How did they respond?
-What effect did the Amalekites have on Israel later on?
If you are a child that is 'dealing' with choices that your parents or grandparents made, do not be discouraged! You are not bound to their decisions. With God at your side, change your legacy!
Please share any ways that you have overcome the legacy left behind by your ancestors. Were there any verses that encouraged you during this time? I feel confident in saying that most of us have had to overcome the legacy left by our ancestors, so we are in the same boat.
Ladies, I love you! Please keep praying for this study to be successful and for it to minister in the ways God sees fit. See you tomorrow!
~Randi
First, allow me to get a few house keeping items out of the way.
I am new to blogging and I am still trying to work out the kinks on a few things such as the scheduled posting time, the comment section and E-mail alerts to you guys when I do post.
So, please stay with me and when you see something that needs attention please email me and then pray that I can fix it:)
I truly feel that God has His hand on this study. If there is anything that is distracting or keeping you from fully participating please let me know.
Note- To make a comment at the end of the post just click on the small pencil that is at the bottom of the post. It will then open up to a comment box for you to leave your thoughts.
Let's get started!
Whoa!
Today's lesson was so very directed right at me! I'm sure that Priscilla wrote it with me in mind...well, maybe not me specifically. Isn't it crazy how God puts you in the right place at the right time to hear His message for you? CRAZY! This happens to me all the time.
As I was reading about the relationship between Israel and Midian I was thinking to myself, " Oh, they should have just listened to God's commands! What was wrong with these people! If God told me to do something I know that I would run right out and do it...with a smile on my face." And then I turned the page.
I have totally disobeyed God, many times. I have had people in my life that weren't that good of an influence on me. In turn, I was not that good of an influence on them. Those relationships did not bring out the best in me. I kept them around because they weren't that bad. Then, years later I find out that they were.
Our decisions WILL effect us in the years to come! This is a fact!
Our Children will have to deal with the consequences of our decisions. I know that I do not want my kids to have to 'deal' with anything that I have done. At the end of my days I want my decisions to be a blessing to them. I don't want anything I have done to be a hurdle for them to have to overcome. Any time that they might have to spend 'dealing' with my mistakes is time they will not get to spend with the Lord. Be a blessing not a hurdle!
If you are not sure about what I am saying then I encourage you to go back and read through 1 Samuel 15:1-9 and then 1 Samuel 30:1-3
-What did God command His people to do?
-How did they respond?
-What effect did the Amalekites have on Israel later on?
If you are a child that is 'dealing' with choices that your parents or grandparents made, do not be discouraged! You are not bound to their decisions. With God at your side, change your legacy!
Please share any ways that you have overcome the legacy left behind by your ancestors. Were there any verses that encouraged you during this time? I feel confident in saying that most of us have had to overcome the legacy left by our ancestors, so we are in the same boat.
Ladies, I love you! Please keep praying for this study to be successful and for it to minister in the ways God sees fit. See you tomorrow!
~Randi
Monday, June 24, 2013
DAY 1
Hello Ladies!
Today is the first day of our Summer Bible Study Blog
I hope you each have your work books in hand and have been able to work through Day 1. If you are in the process of obtaining your work book, no worries. The beauty of this Bible Study Blog is that if you miss a day or two...or even a week you can always visit the blog and easily catch up with the group.
Day 1 starts out with Gideon and the Israelites
Gideon is among a nation of people who have stopped moving forward.
The best way to study a biblical character or book is to observe the entire context in which it is set.
"Then the sons of Israel did what was evil in the sight of the Lord; and the Lord gave them into the hands of Midian seven years." Judges 6:1
NIV includes the word again
"In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes." Judges 21:25
God raises up a group of people called Judges.
Judges' role: they were called by God and empowered by God to unite the people of God to stand against the enemies of God.
How and why did God's people who have the favor of God and are in a covenant relationship with God get to a position of such devastation and oppression?
Today is the first day of our Summer Bible Study Blog
I hope you each have your work books in hand and have been able to work through Day 1. If you are in the process of obtaining your work book, no worries. The beauty of this Bible Study Blog is that if you miss a day or two...or even a week you can always visit the blog and easily catch up with the group.
Day 1 starts out with Gideon and the Israelites
The Session One Viewer Guide
Gideon is among a nation of people who have stopped moving forward.
The best way to study a biblical character or book is to observe the entire context in which it is set.
"Then the sons of Israel did what was evil in the sight of the Lord; and the Lord gave them into the hands of Midian seven years." Judges 6:1
NIV includes the word again
"In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes." Judges 21:25
God raises up a group of people called Judges.
Judges' role: they were called by God and empowered by God to unite the people of God to stand against the enemies of God.
How and why did God's people who have the favor of God and are in a covenant relationship with God get to a position of such devastation and oppression?
Heads, Hearts and Hands
1.They did not know the Lord: there was a problem with the information that was in their heads.
a. Their parents didn't for the teaching.
b. The young people didn't want to listen.
2. There was a problem also with their hearts: their hearts had not been stirred for passion for Him.
3. As a result: their hands aren't doing the right thing.
This excerpt from the book is a great introduction into what we will be delving into ;
' Gideon's story is much bigger than...well...Gideon. Like everything else in the Bible, his story is actually about God and His people. It tells of His love for them, His enduring and boundless mercy toward them, and His strength operating in spite of- even through- weakness in them. And because God's people include you and me, Gideon's story is about us-- our lives, our doubts, our struggles, and our possibilities as believers. '
There are 3 chapters in the book of Judges that tell Gideons story. Out of all of the 66 books of the bible, that is not much real estate! Just remember that although the story doesnt occupy many pages it is a substantial piece of the Bible.
After reading Deuteronomy chapter 7, what were the orders that God had given the Israelites in settling the land?
What are your "iron chariots" of intimidation that keep you from moving forward in complete obedience to God's word?
The Deliverance Principle
The one who delivers people from injustice reserves the right to rule over the delivered. The delivered ones become 'vassals' and the deliverer is the 'suzzerain'.
What should the Deliverance Principle look like in your life?
Use your work book as a journal between you and God. Use this time of study to get really honest with yourself and God about where you are at and where He is at in your life.
What are 2 effects of Israels moral disobedience.
1.
2.
What are 2 areas in your own life where disobedience might have a negative, weakening effect on your life?
1.
2.
In wrapping up Day 1, Priscilla Shirer leaves us with this.
'When God's Spirit asks us to eliminate something from our lives, we shouldn't play around with His Direction. He sees the future effects of our left over enemies. Take Him seriously! Fully engage in the task at hand.'
I will take this a step further and say that we need to truly look at our relationship with God as a living, breathing relationship. If my husband were to look me in the eye and say to eliminate something from my life for my own good, I might hesitate for a minute but then I would do it. Because I know that he always has my best interests at heart. My husband is just a man. As pure as his intentions are for me, how much more pure are Gods intentions for me. So, why when God prompts me to do something do I feel like I have the luxury of thinking it over for a while and then maybe I will do what is asked if it fits in with what I have going on at the moment? Ladies! God is so very real and present in our lives! We need to act like it.
He is our Suzerain and we are His Vassals
In the comments section below please answer the questions. Some of them or all of them, either way. If you have a thought to add to the discussion please post it. Use the comments section just as you would use the discussion time during a traditional bible study.
Remember to head over to the Prayer Wall page to view prayer requests or to post a request of your own. I love you ladies and will see you tomorrow for Day 2.
~Randi
Wednesday, June 19, 2013
Let's Get Started!
{Welcome Ladies!}
A few months back God laid it on me that I needed to host a bible study via the internet.
My first thought was, "Who, me? You must be kidding! I am sooo not qualified to lead anyone in a study! Not to mention I am overly flawed! I am also a sinner! I am not always the best person I can be! The list of reasons that I am NOT the person to lead this study could go on for days." So I calmed down and I talked about it with a few friends and prayed about it. Then this thought came to mind, I am qualified because I am saved. Because I am saved not only am I qualified but I am commanded to share Gods word with the World. My flaws are the reason that many people would find me to be qualified to lead this study. We can relate to each other:) My second thought was, "Well, when you put it that way...OK! Im in!"
I, like all of you, have found myself too busy in life to make it to a once a week bible study. I was even on bed rest with my last pregnancy and learned to never take for granted the ability to go to a bible study. There are many reasons that a woman would have to utilize an online study. God has used these seasons of busyness and bed rest to show me that there is a need for a study that can meet you where ever you are at in your day. I am so thankful to be a member of a church with a Pastor and Titus 2 Womens Ministry Leader that are open to trying new things! Brother Willis Moore and Veronica Rodriguez have my thanks forever! I will do my best to not let them down...or any of you:)
If you have any suggestions please let me know! This is my first go and would love your input. I love you ladies and I promise to pray for you through out this study...you guys please pray for me.
I am so excited about this bible study. I truly feel that God has major things in store for us during this study, and beyond.
Gideon- Your Weakness, God's Strength by Priscilla Shirer
It is also available for purchase on iTunes as a digital workbook that can be viewed on your tablet or smart phone.
The study is accompanied by 6 video sessions, one for each week. It is not essential that you view them. The study is complete with out viewing them. However, there are different insights that Priscilla offers within the video sessions.
They are offered individually, as a digital download, for purchase on the LifeWay website for $4.99 each. I have a copy of the DVD that came with the leader guide. I will view the video each week and include some of what she speaks about. I can not include the actual video on our blog due to copywrite laws.
The study is a 5 day a week study that will last for 6 weeks.
I will post the study questions that correspond with each day here on the blog. I will have them scheduled to post by 5:00 am. I ask that you share your thoughts or answers in the comment section. Some of the questions are very personal. If you do not feel comfortable sharing in those cases I understand. Please feel free to post openly. This is a judgement free zone! There are no wrong answers or questions! I will also post any prayer requests we get.
That brings me to my next point.
PRAYER
Ladies, as you know, prayer is so important. It is one of the most important ways we connect with God. It is a time to listen to Him, a time of sharing with Him, and a time of praise for Him!
I ask that you pray for a revival. We need a revival in our culture, our towns, our churches, within ourselves. We need to not only educate our neighbors and children about who God is but what He has done for us in our past. I want to share a little bit of a story that Priscilla spoke about in the opening video.
She begins by telling of a traveling preacher. This man traveled around to different cities and spread the gospel. Before he would enter a city he would stand at the edge of the city limits, pull out a piece of chalk and draw a circle around himself. While in the circle he would pray for a revival in the city. That he would inspire passion for Christ in the residents and that they would carry that passion on and pass it to the younger generations. He prayed that the revival would start with him, first! Wow! What a thought. We pray for others hearts to change and for people to work for God. But how often do we ask for God to begin with us? I know I have actually NEVER asked God to start with me. I never thought to ask him to begin with me. If we are to inspire passion for Christ, we must HAVE passion for Christ!! So, my challenge for you is to stay in the word, pray for God to start with you, and pray for passion and the courage to spread the truth about our Savior! Our children and their children depend on us carrying on spreading the truth! Do it!
My local friends will be picking up your work books tonight at First Baptist Church Odem @ 6:30. Everyone else is hopefully getting their books as well. Remember that you also have the option of downloading it from iTunes. I have a digital copy from iTunes as well as the hard copy leader guide. The digital copy is just a good as the hard copy. They are identical to each other. Please take the next few days to look over your workbook and ready yourself for a great journey. We will start the first lesson on Monday June 24, 2013. Please meet back here each day to see the questions and every ones responses. For this study to be beneficial we need your participation on the blog! Don't be shy!
See you on Monday! Have a beautiful weekend Ladies!
Randi
Below is the Schedule for the Posts
{Session 1}Heads, Hearts, and Hands
M-June 24- Day 1
T-June 25- Day 2
W-June 26- Day 3
Th-June 27- Day 4
F-June 28- Day5
{Session 2} What to Expect When You're Expecting
M- July 1- Day 6
T- July 2- Day 7
W- July 3- Day 8
Th- July 4- Day 9
F- July 5- Day 10
{Session 3} A Brand New Identity
M- July 8- Day 11
T- July 9- Day 12
W- July 10- Day 13
Th- July 11- Day 14
F- July 12- Day 15
{Session 4} The Flip Side of God's Power
M- July 15- Day 16
T- July 16- Day 17
W- July 17- Day 18
Th- July 18- Day 19
F- July 19- Day 20
{Session 5} How to Win a Battle
M- July 22- Day 21
T- July 23- Day 22
W- July 24- Day 23
Th- July 25- Day 24
F- July 26- Day 25
{Session 6} Who is Your King
M-July 29- Day 28
T- July 30- Day 29
W- July 31- Day 30
Th- August 1- Day 31
F- August 2- Day 32
Saturday, June 1, 2013
Gideon: Your Weakness. God’s Strength.
By Priscilla Shirer
When we hear the name Gideon, most of us think about his 300 soldiers or a fleece laid out under the evening sky. But Gideon’s story is so much bigger than that. This is a story about God and His people- His love for them, as well as His strength operating in spite of, even through, their weakness. This study will encourage you to recognize your weakness as the key that the Lord gives you to unlock the full experience of his strength in your life.
-Priscilla Shirer
Summer time around my house is full of activity and travel. I often find myself feeling a little disconnected from the Lord due to my busyness. With all of that said, it is hard to find the time to meet up once a week for a study. But we still need to connect with the Lord and each other. This summer, the ladies of First Baptist Odem’s Titus 2 Women’s Ministry is hosting an online bible study. Here is how it will work.
1. Sign Up for your book in the foyer or visit www.LifeWay.com to order your book
2. Eagerly await June 19, 2013 and invite ALL of your friends to join the study as well:)
3. Meet at First Baptist Odem on June 19, 2013 to have our Kick-Off meeting and pick up your book.
4. Visit titus2womensministryFBO.blogspot.com on June 19, 2013 for the first day of the study. Be sure to get on the email list on the blog to receive emails regarding the study.
5. Visit the blog daily to read the latest ‘discussion’ question and post your thoughts in the comments section.
6.This is a fairly video intensive study so your options are to download the video at www.LifeWay.com or you can read what the video has to say on the blog.
7. Be in prayer for this study to touch hearts, encourage us to plow through our weakness in God’s name and be a way for our busy summer to refreshing in our spiritual lives as well. This study only lasts 7 weeks! You can do this!
~Randi
By Priscilla Shirer
When we hear the name Gideon, most of us think about his 300 soldiers or a fleece laid out under the evening sky. But Gideon’s story is so much bigger than that. This is a story about God and His people- His love for them, as well as His strength operating in spite of, even through, their weakness. This study will encourage you to recognize your weakness as the key that the Lord gives you to unlock the full experience of his strength in your life.
-Priscilla Shirer
Summer time around my house is full of activity and travel. I often find myself feeling a little disconnected from the Lord due to my busyness. With all of that said, it is hard to find the time to meet up once a week for a study. But we still need to connect with the Lord and each other. This summer, the ladies of First Baptist Odem’s Titus 2 Women’s Ministry is hosting an online bible study. Here is how it will work.
1. Sign Up for your book in the foyer or visit www.LifeWay.com to order your book
2. Eagerly await June 19, 2013 and invite ALL of your friends to join the study as well:)
3. Meet at First Baptist Odem on June 19, 2013 to have our Kick-Off meeting and pick up your book.
4. Visit titus2womensministryFBO.blogspot.com on June 19, 2013 for the first day of the study. Be sure to get on the email list on the blog to receive emails regarding the study.
5. Visit the blog daily to read the latest ‘discussion’ question and post your thoughts in the comments section.
6.This is a fairly video intensive study so your options are to download the video at www.LifeWay.com or you can read what the video has to say on the blog.
7. Be in prayer for this study to touch hearts, encourage us to plow through our weakness in God’s name and be a way for our busy summer to refreshing in our spiritual lives as well. This study only lasts 7 weeks! You can do this!
~Randi
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