Happy Wednesday

I heard you had a wonderful study with Caroline on Tuesday. How nice it is to share and learn together. Lesson 6 is not next week, due to Thanksgiving, but the following week on November 27th. Looking forward to seeing you then:)

Galatians 2:18

Yesterday in Bible Study, a question was asked about Galatians 2:18:
Understand that this section of Galatians 2:11-21 is about not returning to the law.

Paul had just asked Peter why he wanted the Gentiles to live like Jews in verse 14, when he already knows that living like a Jew (following the Mosaic law of works), does not justify a man. Justification comes by believing in Jesus Christ, not by works of the law, as stated in verse 16. 

Now verse 18 poses this: If I (Paul wants Peter to think of himself in this case) act like a Jew by observing the law, and compel non-Jews to also follow the law, even after I have proven that it was abolished by the death of Christ, then I am rebuilding something (reestablishing as necessary for salvation the customs of legal righteousness) that was already destroyed. Paul is saying anyone (Peter) would be in sin (a transgressor) if they made it look like following the law was an obligation. The NLT says, “I am a sinner if I rebuild the old system of law I already tore down.” The new system of faith (in Christ) was established, so why would anyone bring back the old system (of works) that was proven wrong? They would be in sin if they did, as that it is basically saying that Christ’s death was not enough.

I consulted multiple sources and merged them together-hope this helps:)

Hebrews 12:1

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.

Let us lay aside every weight. The word is often used in the classic writers in the sense of swelling, tumour, pride. There is allusion here to the runners in the games who were careful not to encumber themselves with anything that was heavy.Their clothes were so made as not to impede their running, they were careful in their training not to overburden themselves with food, and in every way to remove what would be an impediment or hindrance.

As applied to the racers it does not mean that they began to run with anything like a burden, and then threw it away, but that they were careful not to allow anything that would be a weight or an encumbrance.

As applied to Christians it means that they should remove all which would obstruct their progress in the Christian course. It is fair to apply it to whatever would be an impediment in our efforts to win the crown of life. It is not the same thing in all persons. In one it may be pride; in another vanity; in another worldliness; in another a violent and almost ungovernable temper; in another a corrupt imagination; in another a heavy, leaden, insensible heart; in another some improper and unholy attachment. Whatever it may be, we are exhorted to lay it aside, and this general direction may be applied to anything which prevents our making the highest possible attainment in the divine life. Some persons would make much more progress if they would throw away many of their personal ornaments; some, if they would disencumber themselves of the heavy weight of gold which they are endeavoring to carry with them. So some very light objects, in themselves considered, become material encumbrances. Even a feather or a ring - such may be the fondness for these toys - may become such a weight that they will never make much progress toward the prize. From Barnes' Notes on the Bible.

A Brand New Day

Today was the first Bible Study of this new series. We are starting in the book of Galatians. There were 14 ladies present, and we look forward to meeting the other 6 who signed up. The more the merrier, so feel free to sign up and join us. I love these ladies already. There is so much diversity in our group, and they each have something different to bring to the table. I so look forward to the "growing up in the Lord" we will all do together and Caroline's reminder that, "The Lord Will Reward".
If you missed it, we went over Lesson 1, which covered Galatians 1. It is filled with golden nuggets of truth, freedom, faith and grace. Oh my, this chapter is a treasure to behold. We learned about Paul's passion for the pure Gospel, and his pursuit of truth.

Tonight I was reading a story written by an acquaintance of mine, and I almost jumped out of my chair. She wrote about being, you're not going to believe this, but a PASSIONISTA. Oh my stars!!!! I am squealing this very moment! That's what we need to be ladies...passionistas. She was not referring to Paul's passion, something completely different, but it just makes my heart sing, and I had to share!!! This just can't be a coincidence *wink*.

Don't You Worry 'Bout a Thing

Recently, I had a lot of responsibilities and was all over the place emotionally, finding myself very confused. This was unsettling, because the situation did not call for this type of mind-drama. I was overly worried about dumb stuff. Prayers were said, but not fervently, just kind of casually. Can you relate?

My insecurities got me nowhere. They provided nothing fruitful. They filled my mind with doubt and flooded my spirit with worry. After a few days had passed, I was reflecting on the situation. Like a lightening bolt, this thought filled my mind: God does not supply us with insecurity. He supplies us with confidence and strength. He equips us! The thought that God was not dwelling in my insecurities was not my own. I reminded myself of the fact that I can do ALL things, through Christ, who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13). This verse is so powerful and I pray it falls afresh on you today.

From Barnes' Notes on the Bible:

Trials, temptations, poverty, want, persecution, may await us; but we need not sink into despondency. At every step of life, Christ is able to strengthen us, and can bring us triumphantly through. What a privilege it is, therefore, to be a Christian - to feel, in the trials of life, that we have one friend, unchanging and most mighty, who can always help us! How cheerfully should we engage in our duties, and meet the trials that are before us, leaning on the arm of our Almighty Redeemer! Let us not shrink from duty; let us not dread persecution let us not fear the bed of death. In all circumstances, Christ, our unchanging Friend, can uphold us. Let the eye and the affections of the heart be fixed on him; let the simple, fervent, believing prayer be directed always to him when trials come, when temptations assail, when duty presses hard upon us, and when a crowd of unholy and forbidden thoughts rush into the soul: and we shall be safe.

Save These Dates

Artwork by Catherine Jeltes

October 11, 2012 7PM We will meet in the sanctuary for an overview of the year. Please come!
October 16, 2012 9:15-11:15AM We meet at the church, in the new conference room, with Lesson One of Galatians completed. You may download that here. This will be our first official study. Woo Hoo!

Morning Has Broken

I'm up early this Saturday morning and have woken with this on my heart. I need:

A clean heart

A right spirit

Thy Presence

Thy Holy Spirit

I am asking that He fill these cupped hands with what He wants. I need His guidance and direction.

Lord please change me. I want the life that you want for me. Not the false life as seen on Pinterest, (oh how I enjoy it so.) No, empty me and fill me with all that You have for me, not my small ideas of a life. Amen.

Homeland

Artwork by Kim Bade

But our homeland is in heaven, and we are waiting for our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, to come from heaven.  By his power to rule all things, he will change our humble bodies and make them like his own glorious body. 
Philippians 3:20-21 (NCV) 

You're Invited

Are you running on empty? Maybe you are running on full, and just need to press "refresh". An exciting opportunity is open to all ladies... especially YOU!  A new Bible Study is starting next month. Trust me, you NEED this. We all need this. We need to allow space in our epic busy lives, to grow in God's Word. This is such an opportunity to experience His grace, and watch other sisters do the same.  Sign up information is here.

Together we will explore the books of Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians. Come gather for an overview of this new Bible Study on Thursday, October 11 at 7PM. We will meet in the main sanctuary. You will meet your new group and your two leaders. Are you excitied? Good news! The first lesson in the book of Galatians is already available here.

We pray that His Word will be joy to you, and the rejoicing of your heart!

Your words were found, and I ate them, And Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart; 

Jeremiah 15:16a (NKJV)

Full of Heart

Photo from etsy 

I saw an interview with a secular music band. They were spontaneously asked, "What would you suggest to someone young, who wants to be in a band someday?" A long answer ensued. I heard and remembered one sentence..."Start taking as many opportunities as you can, even if they are small, making sure you do your best and that every effort is full of heart."
I am still pondering their answer. This could be a mantra to live by.
It made me think of this verse:
And whatever you do, do it heartily, 
as to the Lord and not to men,
knowing that from the Lord 
you will receive the reward of the inheritance; 
for you serve the Lord Christ. Col 3:23 (NKJV)
Heartily is an adverb. It means genuinely, completely, sincerely and with all one's heart. Are all of our efforts "full of heart?"

Yes Lord

Purity

I took a purity pledge years ago, even before such a thing was invented. As they have become popular and ceremonious with Christian families, I have heard unfortunate stories of how far some can get away from the pledge, and still think they are honoring it. There is an honest article about a Christian girl waiting for a husband. It is very thought provoking, actually a "must-read", and can be found here: gracefortheroad.com

Battle Fatigue

If the battle belongs to the Lord, why are we so tired? I am going to purpose in my heart to change this thinking. Will you join me? We do not come from a place of defeat. Oh NO! We come from a place of victory! Let's not forget that  Jesus has already won the victory. He is not striving, yearning, hoping to win. He has won. We; the broken, the empty, the confused, and yes... the tired, do not have to struggle.  He will complete any and all work that He wants to, in us and through us. We are working too hard to control people and situations. Let go and LET GOD.

Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.

1 Corinthians 15:58 (NKJV)

Real Beauty

Artwork from Diving Deeper Ministries

Press the "Refresh" Button

Let us all be rivers of encouragement...

A generous person will prosper; 

whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.

Proverbs 11:25 (NIV)

No Shame

Shame was never a burden God desired that we bear.

Perhaps you define yourself through the words of someone else. Or see yourself through the past. Or the actions of someone who was supposed to love you and failed.

When shame encounters the love of God, something powerful takes place. That love lifts the receiver up and over shame to a place of value set apart by God. Your burden is shifted to God's broad shoulders and He is now free to complete the "good work began in you" (Philippians 1:6).

As God's girl, shame has no place in your life or heart. Your name is safe in His mouth because you are beautiful. You are loved. You are His.

Dear Lord, that past incident or those words from the past, they do not define me. Your words and Your love define me. From this day forward I choose to see myself as You do. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

-Excerpt from my devotion this morning, by Suzie Eller  http://www.proverbs31.org/speakers/bios/suzie-eller/

The New Blog

Dear Readers,
I hope you enjoy the new banner at the top. I took a picture of some flowers I had arranged. They were a tribute to my sister who passed away. Thought they would make a nice backdrop for the title.
In Grace,
Veronica

Trust

This morning I am gripped with a thought: Am I assuming or trusting? I tell myself, "It will be fine, it will all work out." Taking nothing for granted, I choose to allow the Holy Spirit to work through me and others. I ask him to lead and guide me through this day, and all its responsibilities. These moments of not worrying are refreshing. All of my fears and worries are placed in a box and placed at the foot of the cross.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, 

And lean not on your own understanding; 

In all your ways acknowledge Him, 

And He shall direct your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6

Praying for those who still hurt...

A Plan With A Purpose

It Is Well With My Soul

It is an amazing hymn, written by a man experiencing tremendous loss. Instead of dwelling on the loss, I have a question for you. What is going well? Today. This week. In your life. In your soul... what is going well?

Set Free

Artwork by Karla Dornacher

Be Encouraged!

Women's Bible Study

A new Womens Bible Study will be starting up in the Fall. Click on "announcements" for current updates. Looking forward to meeting with you weekly for new insights, prayer and blessings.