Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Week Two--New Starts and Barren Hearts
It's time for another session of Fall Bible Study. We are studying A Woman's Heart:God's Dwelling Place, by Beth Moore. You can go here to find the guidelines--which BTW, are intended to give several options for you to participate. I know there are several people reading along with us and that is great. However, I do I hope that today someone will link up and give us your thoughts on the week's study--particularly if you are using the books and doing the homework. And--I must say this week's homework was easier!
We got a little behind the planned schedule when I had to take a week off--We completed Week Two in my at-home Bible study group on Monday, so that's where we are on the blog. If you post and link you might want to adjust to that schedule for continuity sake . But, you can, of course, just go with the week you are working on yourself. Feel free to grab the button above for your post.
Week Two: New Starts and Barren Hearts
Bible Study Buzz at My House
What a great time we had on Monday night! We were a smaller group than usual but we didn't let that keep us from enjoying the fellowship and study. Hopefully, the missing friends will be back next week.
In order to focus on what the Israelites were experiencing and where they were, we looked at a couple of maps and some pictures. Let's take a look. Here is a map of the the entire Exodus experience. Click on the map to enlarge it.
There is another map (black and white) here that shows the Exodus journey.
I shared with my group some pictures from a trip to Israel that my husband and I were blessed to be able to take in 2000. The desert that I saw on that trip is not where the Israelites were; however it looks similar. The Israelites were in the Wilderness of Sin (Exodus 16:1) on what we would call the Sinai Peninsula. My pictures were taken on our trip from Galilee to Jerusalem and in the area near the Dead Sea. Because Israel is not a really large country, these places are relatively close in terms of miles. It will give you an idea of what the Judean desert is like. Check the maps provided above above for reference points. Click on the pictures to enlarge.
These pictures show typical scenes on the trip from Galilee as you travel toward Jerusalem.
In order to focus on what the Israelites were experiencing and where they were, we looked at a couple of maps and some pictures. Let's take a look. Here is a map of the the entire Exodus experience. Click on the map to enlarge it.
There is another map (black and white) here that shows the Exodus journey.
A book that I had available for our group Monday night is Holman Book of Biblical Charts, Maps and Reconstructions. I recommend this book if you are interested in adding to your library of Bible study aids.
I shared with my group some pictures from a trip to Israel that my husband and I were blessed to be able to take in 2000. The desert that I saw on that trip is not where the Israelites were; however it looks similar. The Israelites were in the Wilderness of Sin (Exodus 16:1) on what we would call the Sinai Peninsula. My pictures were taken on our trip from Galilee to Jerusalem and in the area near the Dead Sea. Because Israel is not a really large country, these places are relatively close in terms of miles. It will give you an idea of what the Judean desert is like. Check the maps provided above above for reference points. Click on the pictures to enlarge.
These pictures show typical scenes on the trip from Galilee as you travel toward Jerusalem.
This is a scene near where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found. Note the caves and holes in the side of the hills. There are many openings throughout the hills--very rugged and somewhat treacherous.
Another shot showing the ruggedness of the Judean desert. Just imagine traveling over this land day after day! What a journey the Israelites had!
One last picture for this week. I did not take this one. It is a view taken in the area known as the Wilderness of Sin where the Israelites were traveling. Note the continuous hills. Not a flat desert at all! This is the backdrop for all that the Israelites were experiencing.
Studying God's Word
This is my personal reflection/review/summary of Week Two of A Woman's Heart, by Beth Moore.
As she always does, in this week's lesson Beth leads us through many scripture passages and gives us much food for thought. She helps us to explore connections between Old Testament and New Testament passages. This is just a review/summary. I cannot begin to give you all the meat of that in-depth study. I encourage you to get a book and study along with us if you not already doing that. It is proving to be a rich and rewarding time in The Word.
We will take a look at Beth's "principal questions" as the structure for our review. You can find these on page 30 in your study book.
1. How would you describe the physical surroundings of the wilderness?
Exodus 13-14
The pictures that we have already looked at gave us a pretty good idea of the physical barrenness of the desert. There were endless miles of rock, hills, and bare land. But within the relationship between God and His people we also see physical, visual means by which God revealed himself.
God gave the Israelites some very special, obvious, and vital physical elements as they traveled in the desert. They had constant visual manifestations of the presence of God. Exodus 13:21-22 tells us how God led the Israelites by day as a "pillar of cloud," and gave them light by night as a "pillar of fire." Furthermore the pillar of cloud came between the Israelites and their enemies (Exodus 14:19-31).
Just as God physically came between His people and the Israelite enemies in the desert, He is with us to give us the same protection and security (Psalm 139:1-6).
2. How did God make the bitter water sweet?
Exodus 15
Can you just imagine traveling in the dust and desolation of a desert days on end? Water would certainly become one of your most treasured possessions and something for which you would constantly search. Read Exodus 15 for the story of how the Israelites were experiencing great thirst and in need of refreshing water.
Finally they found water! Alas! It was bitter! Once again God provided for their need. He directed Moses to throw a piece of wood from a tree into the water. When Moses did as God directed, the water became sweet. I can almost feel the cool quenching of a parched throat as I envision the Israelites enjoying that wonderful water!
Beth leads us to compare what Christ did for us to what God did here for His people. Our sins (the bitter water) were forever forgiven by the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross (wood from a tree). We are offered the eternal life (sweet water). What an amazing God!
3. What did the Israelites long for in the desert?
Exodus 16
Have you ever looked back on a time in your past and yearned for the "good old days"? Unfortunately I have to admit to some "grumbling." How about you?
That is what happened to the Israelites. They "grumbled" because they were missing what they had in Egypt. They talked (Exodus 16:1-4) about wishing they had never left Egypt where they "sat around pots of meat and ate all the food we wanted" (v.3) . They longed for a place they once yearned to leave!
Beth helped us connect the story of the Israelites to our own situations. How can we reclaim joy in the Lord if we have allowed our spirits to stray--By seeking a close relationship with Him!
As she always does, in this week's lesson Beth leads us through many scripture passages and gives us much food for thought. She helps us to explore connections between Old Testament and New Testament passages. This is just a review/summary. I cannot begin to give you all the meat of that in-depth study. I encourage you to get a book and study along with us if you not already doing that. It is proving to be a rich and rewarding time in The Word.
We will take a look at Beth's "principal questions" as the structure for our review. You can find these on page 30 in your study book.
1. How would you describe the physical surroundings of the wilderness?
Exodus 13-14
The pictures that we have already looked at gave us a pretty good idea of the physical barrenness of the desert. There were endless miles of rock, hills, and bare land. But within the relationship between God and His people we also see physical, visual means by which God revealed himself.
God gave the Israelites some very special, obvious, and vital physical elements as they traveled in the desert. They had constant visual manifestations of the presence of God. Exodus 13:21-22 tells us how God led the Israelites by day as a "pillar of cloud," and gave them light by night as a "pillar of fire." Furthermore the pillar of cloud came between the Israelites and their enemies (Exodus 14:19-31).
Just as God physically came between His people and the Israelite enemies in the desert, He is with us to give us the same protection and security (Psalm 139:1-6).
2. How did God make the bitter water sweet?
Exodus 15
Can you just imagine traveling in the dust and desolation of a desert days on end? Water would certainly become one of your most treasured possessions and something for which you would constantly search. Read Exodus 15 for the story of how the Israelites were experiencing great thirst and in need of refreshing water.
Finally they found water! Alas! It was bitter! Once again God provided for their need. He directed Moses to throw a piece of wood from a tree into the water. When Moses did as God directed, the water became sweet. I can almost feel the cool quenching of a parched throat as I envision the Israelites enjoying that wonderful water!
Beth leads us to compare what Christ did for us to what God did here for His people. Our sins (the bitter water) were forever forgiven by the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross (wood from a tree). We are offered the eternal life (sweet water). What an amazing God!
3. What did the Israelites long for in the desert?
Exodus 16
Have you ever looked back on a time in your past and yearned for the "good old days"? Unfortunately I have to admit to some "grumbling." How about you?
That is what happened to the Israelites. They "grumbled" because they were missing what they had in Egypt. They talked (Exodus 16:1-4) about wishing they had never left Egypt where they "sat around pots of meat and ate all the food we wanted" (v.3) . They longed for a place they once yearned to leave!
Beth helped us connect the story of the Israelites to our own situations. How can we reclaim joy in the Lord if we have allowed our spirits to stray--By seeking a close relationship with Him!
Psalm 51:12
Restore to me the joy of your salvation
and grant me a willing spirit to sustain me.
Philippians 2:13
It is God who works in you
to will and to act according
to His good purpose.
Restore to me the joy of your salvation
and grant me a willing spirit to sustain me.
Philippians 2:13
It is God who works in you
to will and to act according
to His good purpose.
4. What lesson did the manna demonstrate?
Exodus 16
Now, friends, I just have to tell you this is when this week's lesson got personal!
Exodus 16 is the story of God sending manna to the Israelites in the morning and quail in the evening. He gave them very specific directions about how to gather the food and prepare it. They were to gather enough on day 6 to have for two days.
On the seventh day, the Sabbath, they were to rest in their tents. God was providing for all of their needs--in proportion to what they needed. All they had to do was GATHER the food and FOLLOW HIS DIRECTIONS.
Of course the Israelites made some mistakes along the way. Does that sound familiar? Do we do that over and over? I don't know about you, but I certainly find enough ways to "mess" up.
But that is where the great part comes in! I can't tell you how many times I have studied this story--my whole life. But this time I GOT IT! It really did just hit me between the eyes!
God provides the bread of heaven, but we also have a part in making the plan work. We have to GATHER the manna. When God offers something to us, he also expects us to DO something. Read these verses and see what God gives and the action we are to take.
John 6:32-35 God gives "the bread of life" We must "come" to him and "believe"
Matthew 6:33 God gives "all these things" We must "seek"
Psalm 81:10 God will "feed" us We must "open our mouths"
Yes, He says, Open You mouth wide and I will feed you! I mean--How simple is that! How many ways can he say it, "Get ready, I'm going to take care of you! "
5. How is Christ clothed in Revelation 19:13?
Christ is clothed in a robe that is stained with blood. Blood purifies and forgives.
Because he wore clothes stained with blood we will wear "fine linen, pure and white" (Revelations 19:6-8). Praise God!
God wants a relationship with us. He asks us for faithfulness and submission. He offers us eternal life and provides for us in wondrous ways!
Looking Ahead
Exodus 16
Now, friends, I just have to tell you this is when this week's lesson got personal!
Exodus 16 is the story of God sending manna to the Israelites in the morning and quail in the evening. He gave them very specific directions about how to gather the food and prepare it. They were to gather enough on day 6 to have for two days.
On the seventh day, the Sabbath, they were to rest in their tents. God was providing for all of their needs--in proportion to what they needed. All they had to do was GATHER the food and FOLLOW HIS DIRECTIONS.
Of course the Israelites made some mistakes along the way. Does that sound familiar? Do we do that over and over? I don't know about you, but I certainly find enough ways to "mess" up.
But that is where the great part comes in! I can't tell you how many times I have studied this story--my whole life. But this time I GOT IT! It really did just hit me between the eyes!
God provides the bread of heaven, but we also have a part in making the plan work. We have to GATHER the manna. When God offers something to us, he also expects us to DO something. Read these verses and see what God gives and the action we are to take.
John 6:32-35 God gives "the bread of life" We must "come" to him and "believe"
Matthew 6:33 God gives "all these things" We must "seek"
Psalm 81:10 God will "feed" us We must "open our mouths"
Yes, He says, Open You mouth wide and I will feed you! I mean--How simple is that! How many ways can he say it, "Get ready, I'm going to take care of you! "
5. How is Christ clothed in Revelation 19:13?
Christ is clothed in a robe that is stained with blood. Blood purifies and forgives.
Because he wore clothes stained with blood we will wear "fine linen, pure and white" (Revelations 19:6-8). Praise God!
God wants a relationship with us. He asks us for faithfulness and submission. He offers us eternal life and provides for us in wondrous ways!
Deuteronomy 8:2-3
Remember how the LORD your God led you all the way in the desert these forty years, to humble you and to test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands. He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your fathers had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD.
Looking Ahead
I am posting a summary each Wednesday based on the A Woman's Heart lesson my Monday night group is studying. We will be on Lesson Three next week.
If you choose to post about your study for the week, please link here and leave a comment. You can adjust to the week I am on or post about the week's lesson you are studying. Whatever works for you! If you are reading along with us and do not choose to do your own post, please leave a comment here. We would like to hear from you also. Share the Word with us!
If you choose to post about your study for the week, please link here and leave a comment. You can adjust to the week I am on or post about the week's lesson you are studying. Whatever works for you! If you are reading along with us and do not choose to do your own post, please leave a comment here. We would like to hear from you also. Share the Word with us!
Labels: Bible Study
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Week One--Broken Hearts, Broken Ties
We are back on schedule--Well, actually we are behind, but you know what I mean! We just have a new schedule now. I'm sorry about canceling last week. There are just some things that don't happen on our schedule. I appreciate the comments from so many kind blogging friends on the passing of my brother. When I visited Charles three weeks before he died we discussed my blog. He read it on a regular basis--lurking, don't you know. He was fascinated by the whole blogging community and really liked that I was doing this Bible study. I am certain that he would encourage me to get back to it. So--Here we go! Just in case you haven't read the plans for Fall Bible Study--You can go here to get the basic guidelines. The main thing is to let us know you are studying along with us, link up here, and post at your place about whatever is on your mind concerning the lesson we are focusing on for the week.Week One
Broken Hearts, Broken Ties
Broken Hearts, Broken Ties
Bible Study Buzz At My House
We had a great time together this week. All of the ladies who came the first week were back. I was so glad to see them! I had been a little concerned that perhaps we had not been into the study long enough when we had to take a break. I was afraid someone might drop out. God was faithful to us and brought us all back together. What a precious group of women!
I want to share my Bible study spot with you this week.
Actually, I have a couple of places that I sometimes work. However, I think this one is best for me right now--my kitchen table. This is what it looks like when I am studying.
I bring the computer in here because I can use Bible Gateway, particularly to read some of the longer passages. This allows me to work faster; however, I really like having the Bible in my hands. Therefore, I don't use the computer for all my work. I oftten make notes in my Bible, and the computer just won't work for that!
I am also keeping a journal with this Bible study. I'm just using a simple little spiral notebook. It allows me to make notes that I want to share with the other women in the study. I had several available the first night so the ladies could have one if they wished. I also had pens and highlighters for them. And of course the goody bowl full of little Bible study aids--lights, bookmarks, etc. How do you study? Do you have a favorite spot where you work? What
makes your spot special or unique?
I want to share my Bible study spot with you this week.
Actually, I have a couple of places that I sometimes work. However, I think this one is best for me right now--my kitchen table. This is what it looks like when I am studying.
I bring the computer in here because I can use Bible Gateway, particularly to read some of the longer passages. This allows me to work faster; however, I really like having the Bible in my hands. Therefore, I don't use the computer for all my work. I oftten make notes in my Bible, and the computer just won't work for that!
I am also keeping a journal with this Bible study. I'm just using a simple little spiral notebook. It allows me to make notes that I want to share with the other women in the study. I had several available the first night so the ladies could have one if they wished. I also had pens and highlighters for them. And of course the goody bowl full of little Bible study aids--lights, bookmarks, etc. How do you study? Do you have a favorite spot where you work? Whatmakes your spot special or unique?
Studying God's Word
This is my reflection/review/summary of Week One of A Woman's Heart, by Beth Moore
We certainly covered a lot of ground in this first week. We went from the Garden of Eden to the Exodus of Moses and the Israelites from Egypt. What a journey we took!
There are several ways to approach the review/summary of these lessons each week and we may not use the same format every week. I want to give a fairly simple reflection of what I, and/or the other ladies in my home study group, discovered as we worked. This week I'm going to use Beth's principal questions for the week as my jumping off point. You can find them on page 8 in your study book.
1. Why were the Israelites to build the tabernacle?(p.8)
God wanted a place to "dwell" among his people. That sounds so simple, and it really is. He wants to be with us, talk with us, live with us. However looking at the parallels between the Garden of Eden and the tabernacle helped me to put the "dwelling" and "sanctuary" concepts into perspective. God was giving his people a new place to meet with him. He was providing what Beth referred to as a "ministry of reconciliation" as referred to in 2 Corinthians 5:18. (p.11)
Over and over in the margins of my book I have written phrases such as "He wants to meet," He is in pursuit," and "Where are you!" God is continually pursuing us, asking us to listen, giving us opportunity to respond, providing us with places and times to meet with him. He does expect to dwell with us. The Israelites were instructed to build the tabernacle for that reason. This study becomes very personal! I was really impressed by the fact that God is pursuing me. He wants to dwell with me! I know that in this season of my life I have many questions about God's plan for me. I think he may just be using this study to get my attention for those plans. Beth underscores that idea when she says, "I believe God appoints our journeys through His Word to correspond with our current life seasons." (p12) It was interesting to listen to the women in our group talk and realize that there are so many different seasons of life represented in the group. We have one mother of young children, several grandmothers, two retirees, one widow, one who has four generations currently living in her house, and at least one anticipating a move in the next few months. Yet, we have all been led to this study. What is ahead for us? Where are we? Friends who are reading this review, but not doing the study in the book--I encourage you to read Exodus 25:1-2, 8-9and Genesis1:26-3:24.
2. What is the human heart like apart from fellowship with God?
The simple summation of this is that God loves us and wants fellowship with us. Again, it is more complicated than that. Oh! We loved this on Monday night--"God created us because He delights in us! (p13) Isn't that great! He delights in us! He delighted in Noah also. He destroyed all other people, saving only Noah and his family. Well, after all, Noah was doing what God wanted--the others were not. You know the story--Genesis 6:10-9:19, After God destroyed the earth, He made a covenant with Noah. God keeps His covenants. We are given the choice to make and keep covenants with Him--covenants to serve the Lord. Joshua 24:15.
3. How did God respond to what He saw at the tower of Babel?
In our study group we had a little laugh over this one. Don't misunderstand, we were not disrespectful. But, really, you don't want to get God angry! God told Noah and his sons to be fruitful and multiply. The people decided they would all stay in Babel and build a tower. They just didn't want to scatter all over the earth. Well, you know what happened--God scattered them--Genesis 11. Beth makes a point about God sometimes calling us out of our comfort zones to do things we might not choose for ourselves--I'm paraphrasing here. (p21) Wow! This was certainly another moment of truth for our Monday night group. We could all tell of times in our past, or current situations, in which our talents and skills hae been stretched. When was the last time you were called out of your comfort zone to follow the Lord's plan? What did you learn from the experience?
4. What did God preach to Abraham?
God preached the Gospel to Abraham.Trying to explain this portion of the study in a review is difficult for me--If you are studying along in the book you read it, too. It just blew me away! I believe this was one of the most exciting parts of this week's lesson for me. The difficulty in reviewing it is that I want to tell the whole thing the way Beth did--and she already did that!
Let me just say--Seeing the connection between the story of Abram and God in the Old Testament (Genesis 15) and the gift of His Son for us in the New Testament was a revelation. This was, of course, not the first time for me to study this passage. But, seeing it through new eyes and with renewed understanding. Wow!
Our group had a lively discussion about the thorns in which the ram in the Old Testament was caught (Genesis 22:13) and the thorns on the brow of the Lamb of God in the New Testament (John 1:29). Another WOW!
Philippians 2:8-11 (NIV)
8And being found in appearance as a man,
he humbled himself
and became obedient to death—
even death on a cross!
9Therefore God exalted him to the highest place
and gave him the name that is above every name,
10that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
11and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father.
5. By what name did God tell Moses to call Him to the Israelites?
We reached Moses! Can the tabernacle be far behind! Our group delighted in the story of Moses going up the mountain--and leaving groups behind at their designated stations. (Exodus 24) We didn't quite act it out, but we were close! And we get to the point where God tells Moses to build a place for him to dwell.
We certainly covered a lot of ground in this first week. We went from the Garden of Eden to the Exodus of Moses and the Israelites from Egypt. What a journey we took!
There are several ways to approach the review/summary of these lessons each week and we may not use the same format every week. I want to give a fairly simple reflection of what I, and/or the other ladies in my home study group, discovered as we worked. This week I'm going to use Beth's principal questions for the week as my jumping off point. You can find them on page 8 in your study book.
1. Why were the Israelites to build the tabernacle?(p.8)
God wanted a place to "dwell" among his people. That sounds so simple, and it really is. He wants to be with us, talk with us, live with us. However looking at the parallels between the Garden of Eden and the tabernacle helped me to put the "dwelling" and "sanctuary" concepts into perspective. God was giving his people a new place to meet with him. He was providing what Beth referred to as a "ministry of reconciliation" as referred to in 2 Corinthians 5:18. (p.11)
Over and over in the margins of my book I have written phrases such as "He wants to meet," He is in pursuit," and "Where are you!" God is continually pursuing us, asking us to listen, giving us opportunity to respond, providing us with places and times to meet with him. He does expect to dwell with us. The Israelites were instructed to build the tabernacle for that reason. This study becomes very personal! I was really impressed by the fact that God is pursuing me. He wants to dwell with me! I know that in this season of my life I have many questions about God's plan for me. I think he may just be using this study to get my attention for those plans. Beth underscores that idea when she says, "I believe God appoints our journeys through His Word to correspond with our current life seasons." (p12) It was interesting to listen to the women in our group talk and realize that there are so many different seasons of life represented in the group. We have one mother of young children, several grandmothers, two retirees, one widow, one who has four generations currently living in her house, and at least one anticipating a move in the next few months. Yet, we have all been led to this study. What is ahead for us? Where are we? Friends who are reading this review, but not doing the study in the book--I encourage you to read Exodus 25:1-2, 8-9and Genesis1:26-3:24.
2. What is the human heart like apart from fellowship with God?
The simple summation of this is that God loves us and wants fellowship with us. Again, it is more complicated than that. Oh! We loved this on Monday night--"God created us because He delights in us! (p13) Isn't that great! He delights in us! He delighted in Noah also. He destroyed all other people, saving only Noah and his family. Well, after all, Noah was doing what God wanted--the others were not. You know the story--Genesis 6:10-9:19, After God destroyed the earth, He made a covenant with Noah. God keeps His covenants. We are given the choice to make and keep covenants with Him--covenants to serve the Lord. Joshua 24:15.
3. How did God respond to what He saw at the tower of Babel?
In our study group we had a little laugh over this one. Don't misunderstand, we were not disrespectful. But, really, you don't want to get God angry! God told Noah and his sons to be fruitful and multiply. The people decided they would all stay in Babel and build a tower. They just didn't want to scatter all over the earth. Well, you know what happened--God scattered them--Genesis 11. Beth makes a point about God sometimes calling us out of our comfort zones to do things we might not choose for ourselves--I'm paraphrasing here. (p21) Wow! This was certainly another moment of truth for our Monday night group. We could all tell of times in our past, or current situations, in which our talents and skills hae been stretched. When was the last time you were called out of your comfort zone to follow the Lord's plan? What did you learn from the experience?
4. What did God preach to Abraham?
God preached the Gospel to Abraham.Trying to explain this portion of the study in a review is difficult for me--If you are studying along in the book you read it, too. It just blew me away! I believe this was one of the most exciting parts of this week's lesson for me. The difficulty in reviewing it is that I want to tell the whole thing the way Beth did--and she already did that!
Let me just say--Seeing the connection between the story of Abram and God in the Old Testament (Genesis 15) and the gift of His Son for us in the New Testament was a revelation. This was, of course, not the first time for me to study this passage. But, seeing it through new eyes and with renewed understanding. Wow!
Our group had a lively discussion about the thorns in which the ram in the Old Testament was caught (Genesis 22:13) and the thorns on the brow of the Lamb of God in the New Testament (John 1:29). Another WOW!
Philippians 2:8-11 (NIV)
8And being found in appearance as a man,
he humbled himself
and became obedient to death—
even death on a cross!
9Therefore God exalted him to the highest place
and gave him the name that is above every name,
10that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
11and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father.
5. By what name did God tell Moses to call Him to the Israelites?
Exodus 3:14 "I am who I am.
This is what you are to say
to the Israelites:
"I AM has sent me to you.' "
This is what you are to say
to the Israelites:
"I AM has sent me to you.' "
We reached Moses! Can the tabernacle be far behind! Our group delighted in the story of Moses going up the mountain--and leaving groups behind at their designated stations. (Exodus 24) We didn't quite act it out, but we were close! And we get to the point where God tells Moses to build a place for him to dwell.
Exodus 25:8 Then have them make a sanctuary for me, and I will dwell among them.
I'm going to leave you with this image. This is a picture of Mt. Sinai. Exodus 24:12 says, "The Lord said to Moses, "Come up to Me on the mountain. . ." Moses had to take quite a walk in order to obey the Lord that day!
Please leave a link to your blog if you are posting about Fall Bible Study. Remember to leave a comment also. Thank you!
I'm going to leave you with this image. This is a picture of Mt. Sinai. Exodus 24:12 says, "The Lord said to Moses, "Come up to Me on the mountain. . ." Moses had to take quite a walk in order to obey the Lord that day! Looking Ahead
I can't wait to see where we go next! I hope you have a great week in The Word. We will meet back here next Wednesday to see what we have learned. I know some of you are at different places in the study. If you would just indulge those of us who just started and review/summarize the week we are on here at Cherish. . .the word!Please leave a link to your blog if you are posting about Fall Bible Study. Remember to leave a comment also. Thank you!
Just a note--blogger has gone crazy on me! I can't get it to leave the size of the type the way I want it. I have tried, and tried. I'm going to bed now--I'll try again tomorrow! I hope you haven't gone cross-eyed trying to read this post with crazy size type changing every paragraph! :-)
Labels: Bible Study
Monday, September 24, 2007
A Little Bloggy Business--A LIttle Bloggy Fun
Well, good morning! I'm going to take care of a little blogging business, then I'm going to share a fun meme with you. Whew! I really need to have a little fun!
I have been wrestling with a blogging problem I have. I'm going to tell you what I have decided. The problem? What to do with Fall Bible Study? The solution--Just keep on going!
Last week I really thought I would be back home after attending my brother's funeral in Texas and ready to post on Wednesday. Just keep on moving, you know. It didn't happen that way. I was home, but I just wasn't ready to do anything that required thinking. I do try to think just a bit when I write--especially when I'm going to presume to write about a Bible Study!
The Bible Study at my home was canceled last week because it meets on Monday night and by that time I was in Texas. We just decided to begin again this week. So that's what I'm going to do with the blogging version--Begin again.
Here's the new deal! We will be discussing Week One on Wednesday. Anyone who has read it, studied, it and wants to comment, please link up and put your post up so we can come to your place and see what you have to say. I will be giving a summary here and letting you in on what the ladies at my home study have to say. See you then!
"Get to Know Me Better" Meme
Now--some fun with a meme I picked up from Ginger some time ago. I'm sure you are breathlessly waiting to find out all this stuff about little ole' me.
Accent--Definitely a West Texas Twang -- I have lived in Tennessee for over thirty-five years, so a bit of Middle Tennessee Southern has slipped in along the way. Sometimes people have trouble placing my mixed-up accent. I told a little story here about how one man hit it right on.
I Don't Drink--Beer. Sweet tea is the beverage of choice most of the time.
Chore I Hate--Cleaning bathrooms! Actually, given the choice of any chore or reading a book, I'd probably prefer reading the book. But then, who would do the chores?!
Pets--None presently. We have had several sweet dogs--Michelle, Honey, Muffin, Dolly, one psychotic pooch named Prissy, and one spoiled bird named Ollie. Currently I enjoy an occasional visit from a neighborhood dog named Daisy. She always shows up when the grandchildren are here. How does she know when they're visiting? I found out yesterday that two of our grandchildren (Joshua and Spoony) just got a new dog--Delilah Belle, who will be known as Lilah. I look forward to meeting the cute little Basset Hound.
Essential Electronics--Besides the obvious computer--this terrific piece of machinery is a must at our house. It is a back-up generator which is powered, in a way I don't completely understand, by natural gas. In case of a power outage it keeps the electricity needed for Lee's medical machinery humming right along. Yes, Ma'm! If the electricity goes off in our house for any reason, just count to about fifteen and the refrigerator, TVs, computers, and all the electricity in our bedroom come back on. It is like magic--but not! It is a blessing beyond belief in the middle of a storm just to know it is there.
Perfume--Don't wear it often. I like to spritz on a little scent, but I normally use body spray or something similar. I keep several scents from Bat*h and Bo*dy, etc. When I do use the real thing I prefer Beautiful, Desire, and Joy. My granddaughter loves to go into "the red bathroom"--which is mine--and experiment with the spray bottles! She likes to "smell pretty." Yep, she is a girly girl disguised as a little tomboy!
Gold or Silver--My husband had my wedding and engagement rings reset from white gold to gold on our twenty-fifth anniversary. He added ring guards and reset the diamond from my engagement ring. So, I wear a lot of gold. But, I also mix the two and wear silver quite a bit.
Insomnia--Not true insomnia, but I do find myself staying up later now that I am retired--and the blogging has something to do with it also! If I am having trouble sleeping I find something not too exciting to read and that usually does the trick!
Job Title--Currently "grandmama" is my favorite title, but I, like many women, have several other titles. Professionally I was known as teacher and then principal.
Most Admired Trait--I am loyal. If I am your friend you are stuck with me. If I love you, I will love you always!
Kids--We have two sons (both 30+) who are the treasures of our lives. The older one is a teacher and coach. He and his wonderful wife, who is also a teacher, have a son and a daughter. They live less than two miles from us. Our younger son is a CPA. He and his equally wonderful wife, who is a teacher, have two sons. They live in a small town not too far from us. BTW--You can read her blog here. We also have a daughter who is waiting for us in heaven. She lived only a very short time after she was born. Our boys came soon after her.
Phobia--I don't like to be in a crowded room unless I know how to get out of it. I always look for a door and prefer to sit where I can get to the door if I need to. Strange, because I have never had a bad experience about crowds or being caught in a burning building or anything like that. :-)
Religion--I have been a Christian since I accepted the Lord as my savior when I was seven years old. In my "normal" life I attend a Baptist church where we have been members since 1980. Currently, because of my husband's health limitations we worship on Sunday mornings with some churches via TV. The important thing is that God is in charge of my life and I am trying to follow his plan for me. So far He has led me on an interesting, unexpected, and blessed journey.
Siblings--I am the fourth of four children born to my parents, Charlie and Beulah. In addition, I have one step sister. My oldest sister, Jeannette, died last year; my brother, Charles, last week. I know they are together, with our parents, in heaven. I miss them both so much. That leaves my older sister, Barbara, and my stepsister, Carol--and, of course, me.
I was the baby sister. Jeannette and Charles were twelve and ten years older than me. Barbara is just two years older. We live hundreds of miles from each other, but we talk on the phone almost everyday. If I have a secret--she probably knows it. Carol is five years younger than me. She may not know all of my secrets now--but she surely knows several from when I was a teenager! She was ten and I was fifteen when her mother and my dad married. (Come to think of it, I really don't have many secrets these days)!
Unusual Talent/Skill--I can pick up things with my toes! Oh--you may want to know something more sophisticated than that! OH YES!! I can teach a child to read! I also know how to get a group of 500+ children to be silent--in seconds, without raising my voice! I haven't had much use for that skill recently--but I'm ready if 500 children happen to take a field trip to my home anytime soon.
Vegetable I Hate--Brussels sprouts--is that a vegetable? and green Lima beans!
Worst Habit--Procrastinating! I'll probably talk more about that later--maybe, stay tuned--if I get around to it--you know, someday!
My Favorite Meal--Has to be Mexican! If I'm choosing a restaurant, it would have to be Pappasito's in Houston. In our area--currently I would choose Palmas Verde However, if you just put some cheese on it, pour some salsa over it and call it "Mexican," or Tex-Mex, I will likely eat it!
I may be the last one in all of Bloggyville to complete this meme. If you have not done it, please join in. I would certainly like to get to know you better. Let us know in a comment where you are and we'll all rush over!
I have been wrestling with a blogging problem I have. I'm going to tell you what I have decided. The problem? What to do with Fall Bible Study? The solution--Just keep on going!
The Bible Study at my home was canceled last week because it meets on Monday night and by that time I was in Texas. We just decided to begin again this week. So that's what I'm going to do with the blogging version--Begin again.
Here's the new deal! We will be discussing Week One on Wednesday. Anyone who has read it, studied, it and wants to comment, please link up and put your post up so we can come to your place and see what you have to say. I will be giving a summary here and letting you in on what the ladies at my home study have to say. See you then!
"Get to Know Me Better" Meme
Accent--Definitely a West Texas Twang -- I have lived in Tennessee for over thirty-five years, so a bit of Middle Tennessee Southern has slipped in along the way. Sometimes people have trouble placing my mixed-up accent. I told a little story here about how one man hit it right on.
I Don't Drink--Beer. Sweet tea is the beverage of choice most of the time.
Chore I Hate--Cleaning bathrooms! Actually, given the choice of any chore or reading a book, I'd probably prefer reading the book. But then, who would do the chores?!
Pets--None presently. We have had several sweet dogs--Michelle, Honey, Muffin, Dolly, one psychotic pooch named Prissy, and one spoiled bird named Ollie. Currently I enjoy an occasional visit from a neighborhood dog named Daisy. She always shows up when the grandchildren are here. How does she know when they're visiting? I found out yesterday that two of our grandchildren (Joshua and Spoony) just got a new dog--Delilah Belle, who will be known as Lilah. I look forward to meeting the cute little Basset Hound.
Essential Electronics--Besides the obvious computer--this terrific piece of machinery is a must at our house. It is a back-up generator which is powered, in a way I don't completely understand, by natural gas. In case of a power outage it keeps the electricity needed for Lee's medical machinery humming right along. Yes, Ma'm! If the electricity goes off in our house for any reason, just count to about fifteen and the refrigerator, TVs, computers, and all the electricity in our bedroom come back on. It is like magic--but not! It is a blessing beyond belief in the middle of a storm just to know it is there.
Perfume--Don't wear it often. I like to spritz on a little scent, but I normally use body spray or something similar. I keep several scents from Bat*h and Bo*dy, etc. When I do use the real thing I prefer Beautiful, Desire, and Joy. My granddaughter loves to go into "the red bathroom"--which is mine--and experiment with the spray bottles! She likes to "smell pretty." Yep, she is a girly girl disguised as a little tomboy!
Gold or Silver--My husband had my wedding and engagement rings reset from white gold to gold on our twenty-fifth anniversary. He added ring guards and reset the diamond from my engagement ring. So, I wear a lot of gold. But, I also mix the two and wear silver quite a bit.
Insomnia--Not true insomnia, but I do find myself staying up later now that I am retired--and the blogging has something to do with it also! If I am having trouble sleeping I find something not too exciting to read and that usually does the trick!
Job Title--Currently "grandmama" is my favorite title, but I, like many women, have several other titles. Professionally I was known as teacher and then principal.
Most Admired Trait--I am loyal. If I am your friend you are stuck with me. If I love you, I will love you always!
Kids--We have two sons (both 30+) who are the treasures of our lives. The older one is a teacher and coach. He and his wonderful wife, who is also a teacher, have a son and a daughter. They live less than two miles from us. Our younger son is a CPA. He and his equally wonderful wife, who is a teacher, have two sons. They live in a small town not too far from us. BTW--You can read her blog here. We also have a daughter who is waiting for us in heaven. She lived only a very short time after she was born. Our boys came soon after her.
Phobia--I don't like to be in a crowded room unless I know how to get out of it. I always look for a door and prefer to sit where I can get to the door if I need to. Strange, because I have never had a bad experience about crowds or being caught in a burning building or anything like that. :-)
Religion--I have been a Christian since I accepted the Lord as my savior when I was seven years old. In my "normal" life I attend a Baptist church where we have been members since 1980. Currently, because of my husband's health limitations we worship on Sunday mornings with some churches via TV. The important thing is that God is in charge of my life and I am trying to follow his plan for me. So far He has led me on an interesting, unexpected, and blessed journey.
Siblings--I am the fourth of four children born to my parents, Charlie and Beulah. In addition, I have one step sister. My oldest sister, Jeannette, died last year; my brother, Charles, last week. I know they are together, with our parents, in heaven. I miss them both so much. That leaves my older sister, Barbara, and my stepsister, Carol--and, of course, me.
I was the baby sister. Jeannette and Charles were twelve and ten years older than me. Barbara is just two years older. We live hundreds of miles from each other, but we talk on the phone almost everyday. If I have a secret--she probably knows it. Carol is five years younger than me. She may not know all of my secrets now--but she surely knows several from when I was a teenager! She was ten and I was fifteen when her mother and my dad married. (Come to think of it, I really don't have many secrets these days)!
Unusual Talent/Skill--I can pick up things with my toes! Oh--you may want to know something more sophisticated than that! OH YES!! I can teach a child to read! I also know how to get a group of 500+ children to be silent--in seconds, without raising my voice! I haven't had much use for that skill recently--but I'm ready if 500 children happen to take a field trip to my home anytime soon.
Vegetable I Hate--Brussels sprouts--is that a vegetable? and green Lima beans!
Worst Habit--Procrastinating! I'll probably talk more about that later--maybe, stay tuned--if I get around to it--you know, someday!
My Favorite Meal--Has to be Mexican! If I'm choosing a restaurant, it would have to be Pappasito's in Houston. In our area--currently I would choose Palmas Verde However, if you just put some cheese on it, pour some salsa over it and call it "Mexican," or Tex-Mex, I will likely eat it!
I may be the last one in all of Bloggyville to complete this meme. If you have not done it, please join in. I would certainly like to get to know you better. Let us know in a comment where you are and we'll all rush over!
Labels: Bible Study, Bloggy Business, Meme Fun
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Fall Bible Sudy--Introduction
Welcome to the first week of Fall Bible Study
at Cherish...the Word!
at Cherish...the Word!
Guidelines for the study:
We are using A Woman's Heart: God's Dwelling Place--Updated, by Beth Moore, as our learning guide. You can buy it at Lifeway Stores, online at Lifeway, or other online book sellers. We will be reviewing the Introductory Lesson this week and will address one lesson a week for the next ten weeks.
I am trying here, one more time, to explain the options that you have for participating in this study. I think I may have gotten it right this time. I have tried to be concise, but thorough. There are several options to participating in the study:
Option One--Attend or host a study group at a church or home. Study the assigned scriptures and do the homework in the study book. Meet with your group to discuss the lesson for the week, view the video, and complete the viewer guide. Come here on Wednesday to link up. Post on your own blog about your learning experience for that week.
Option Two--Buy a Member Book (also called study book). Download the videos at Lifeway. There is also an audio version available. Work by yourself or with a friend. Study the assigned scriptures, do the homework in the study book, view the video, and complete the viewer guide. Come here on Wednesday to link up. Post on your own blog about your learning experience for the week.
Option Three--If you do not have access to the video and are not able to download it, this is probably the option for you. Buy a Member Book. Work by yourself or with a friend. Study the assigned scriptures and do the homework in the study book. Come here on Wednesday to link up. Post on your own blog about your learning experience for the week. You will lose the richness of the face-to face-experience with Beth and the great guidance she provides in the video. However, I believe you will still have a quality Bible study experience.
Audit--Some colleges offer audit experiences for classes. You can, of course, do that here, too. After all, this is bloggyville. This plan is not really a plan for participating in the study, but rather, what we basically do every day on our blogs. Come here on Wednesday, check out the links for the week, and read about what others learned in their study. Give it some thoughtful consideration. Comment about your insight based on your own previous or ongoing Bible study.
Schedule--I will be posting the weekly schedule in my sidebar as soon as html and I come to agreement on who is boss of the template!!! Until then, you can find it here.
Bible Study Buzz at My House
OH! MY! GOODNESS! This was beyond great! I have attended several Beth Moore studies--at church and in a friend's home. This is the first time I have hosted one. I have been missing out on a really wonderful opportunity!
The group meeting on Monday nights is a mixture of people from my church Bible study class, friends I have worked with, a relatively new friend who has become very dear to me, and a delightful lady I met for the first time last night. There will be some more friends joining us next week--they are doing other things this week like cruising, etc. :-)
We spent some time getting to know each other just a little better.We discovered common interests and characteristics. We exclaimed at the youthful look of a couple of people with adult children, and in general enjoyed getting comfortable with one another. We also discovered that several of us had been to Deeper Still Conference in Nashville this past weekend. Beth and other bible teachers, Kay Arthur and Priscilla Shirer were featured. That common bond prompted some lively conversations about our shared experience.
I can't leave my teaching/principaling habits behind me, so I had treasures for my guests. We passed around a bowl of "goodies" and each person got to choose one. Included were small bags of coffee, bookmarks, lights to clip on a book, and other small surprises. I was also glad to revisit one of my favorite teacher tasks--passing out brand new books!
We were off to a good start and ready to turn to the reason we had gathered. We began with prayer. Then after a brief discussion of the reason I wanted to have this study at my home and a few"housekeeping" chores concerning our meetings, we settled down to view the introductory video.
I cannot tell you how blessed we were in that room. When the video ended there was a moment of complete silence. Then a lively discussion broke loose. We discussed how we feel the power of God's Word coming from Beth Moore. But mostly we discussed the amazing mind pictures she painted for us of how God is pursuing us. We were astounded by the idea that the plan for the tabernacle has existed, and will exist for eternity. We were fascinated as Beth led us through both Old and New Testament scripture to prepare us for the coming weeks. Every woman present expressed a feeling of awe at what we had heard and a desire to know more. .
Let me tell you--That group left my home better friends than when they came, with a purpose for Bible study for the next week, and a commitment to let God "open our minds and understand the Scriptures." I have no doubt that I was led to pull this particular group of women together. I also know that God is pursuing all of us, desiring a deeper relationship with each of us. I'm so excited about the possibilities!
Studying God's Word
OH! MY! GOODNESS! This was beyond great! I have attended several Beth Moore studies--at church and in a friend's home. This is the first time I have hosted one. I have been missing out on a really wonderful opportunity!
The group meeting on Monday nights is a mixture of people from my church Bible study class, friends I have worked with, a relatively new friend who has become very dear to me, and a delightful lady I met for the first time last night. There will be some more friends joining us next week--they are doing other things this week like cruising, etc. :-)
We spent some time getting to know each other just a little better.We discovered common interests and characteristics. We exclaimed at the youthful look of a couple of people with adult children, and in general enjoyed getting comfortable with one another. We also discovered that several of us had been to Deeper Still Conference in Nashville this past weekend. Beth and other bible teachers, Kay Arthur and Priscilla Shirer were featured. That common bond prompted some lively conversations about our shared experience.
I can't leave my teaching/principaling habits behind me, so I had treasures for my guests. We passed around a bowl of "goodies" and each person got to choose one. Included were small bags of coffee, bookmarks, lights to clip on a book, and other small surprises. I was also glad to revisit one of my favorite teacher tasks--passing out brand new books!
We were off to a good start and ready to turn to the reason we had gathered. We began with prayer. Then after a brief discussion of the reason I wanted to have this study at my home and a few"housekeeping" chores concerning our meetings, we settled down to view the introductory video.I cannot tell you how blessed we were in that room. When the video ended there was a moment of complete silence. Then a lively discussion broke loose. We discussed how we feel the power of God's Word coming from Beth Moore. But mostly we discussed the amazing mind pictures she painted for us of how God is pursuing us. We were astounded by the idea that the plan for the tabernacle has existed, and will exist for eternity. We were fascinated as Beth led us through both Old and New Testament scripture to prepare us for the coming weeks. Every woman present expressed a feeling of awe at what we had heard and a desire to know more. .
Let me tell you--That group left my home better friends than when they came, with a purpose for Bible study for the next week, and a commitment to let God "open our minds and understand the Scriptures." I have no doubt that I was led to pull this particular group of women together. I also know that God is pursuing all of us, desiring a deeper relationship with each of us. I'm so excited about the possibilities!
Studying God's Word
Beth Moore's studies typically begin with a video introduction. She lays the groundwork for the in depth search of scripture and the overall direction the study will take. Through her obvious love of the Lord and her commitment to sharing her understanding of His word with women she has developed a teaching style that is both engaging and challenging. I have never failed to come away with a new perspective, a deeper understanding, or a clearer vision of what the Lord has to say to me personally.This week was no exception.
My attention was grabbed from the beginning by the idea that God pursues me and wants a deeper relationship with me just as He did with Adam and Eve (Genesis 3:8-9). That is not really a new idea for me to consider. It is one I definitely need to give more personal attention to than I have in recent months. It is easy to get caught up in the must-dos of life. I truly believe that I have felt the need to be involved in this study because of God's pursuit of me and my need to more clearly understand His plan for me in this season of my life.
I believe the idea that intrigued me the most was in the description of God revealing His plan to Moses. Now, I knew that God had given Moses plans on the mountain. However, my understanding now is that those plans were not new, but had existed for eternity.
Hebrews 8:5 (NIV) says the "sanctuary is a copy and shadow of what is in heaven. This is why Moses was warned when he was about to build the tabernacle: 'See to it that you make everything according to the pattern shown you on the mountain."
People, this is exciting stuff! If the tabernacle the Israelites built is a copy of what was in heaven, then it will be in heaven when we get there. We will see it! Not only that, we will worship God there! In the meantime, he wants to dwell with us here. He wants to talk with us. He wants us to worship and serve Him!
Well, I have to say--My heart is full! My mind is whirling! There is so much to think about, to consider, to ponder, to examine. I'm on the edge of my seat waiting to see what happens next!
My attention was grabbed from the beginning by the idea that God pursues me and wants a deeper relationship with me just as He did with Adam and Eve (Genesis 3:8-9). That is not really a new idea for me to consider. It is one I definitely need to give more personal attention to than I have in recent months. It is easy to get caught up in the must-dos of life. I truly believe that I have felt the need to be involved in this study because of God's pursuit of me and my need to more clearly understand His plan for me in this season of my life.
I believe the idea that intrigued me the most was in the description of God revealing His plan to Moses. Now, I knew that God had given Moses plans on the mountain. However, my understanding now is that those plans were not new, but had existed for eternity.
Hebrews 8:5 (NIV) says the "sanctuary is a copy and shadow of what is in heaven. This is why Moses was warned when he was about to build the tabernacle: 'See to it that you make everything according to the pattern shown you on the mountain."
People, this is exciting stuff! If the tabernacle the Israelites built is a copy of what was in heaven, then it will be in heaven when we get there. We will see it! Not only that, we will worship God there! In the meantime, he wants to dwell with us here. He wants to talk with us. He wants us to worship and serve Him!
Well, I have to say--My heart is full! My mind is whirling! There is so much to think about, to consider, to ponder, to examine. I'm on the edge of my seat waiting to see what happens next!
Looking Ahead
We will be back next week to discuss Week One, "Broken Hearts, Broken Ties." In this lesson Beth will take us from Adam and Eve, to Noah, thenAbram, all the way to Moses and the Israelites. Does that sound daunting and challenging? Of course, but worth every minute of it!
Bible study is very personal and I'm sure we will all have ideas of how to "discuss" the lesson in our posts next week. I don't presume to try to tell you what to write about.
However, if you need a starter you might ponder the following:
• Consider the concept of covenants. What are some of the covenants God made with individuals in the scriptures we study this week.
• Review the importance of the phrases, "to work and take care of," or "serve and worship" to the tabernacle. How does that apply to your life?
• Consider the actions of God toward the people of Babylon. What does that tell us about God's plans for us?
There are so many wonderful blessings within the first week's study. Those ideas listed above are just three that have jumped out at me as I have studied. (I'm trying to stay at least one week ahead of the group meeting at my house).
I hope you will continue to come to share with us as you work through this amazing study. We will meet back here next Wednesday. Blessings on you this week!
Luke 24:44-45 (NIV)font>
44He said to them,
"This is what I told you while I was still with you:
Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me
in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms."
45Then he opened their minds
so they could understand the Scriptures."
Bible study is very personal and I'm sure we will all have ideas of how to "discuss" the lesson in our posts next week. I don't presume to try to tell you what to write about.
However, if you need a starter you might ponder the following:
• Consider the concept of covenants. What are some of the covenants God made with individuals in the scriptures we study this week.
• Review the importance of the phrases, "to work and take care of," or "serve and worship" to the tabernacle. How does that apply to your life?
• Consider the actions of God toward the people of Babylon. What does that tell us about God's plans for us?
There are so many wonderful blessings within the first week's study. Those ideas listed above are just three that have jumped out at me as I have studied. (I'm trying to stay at least one week ahead of the group meeting at my house).
I hope you will continue to come to share with us as you work through this amazing study. We will meet back here next Wednesday. Blessings on you this week!
Luke 24:44-45 (NIV)font>
44He said to them,
"This is what I told you while I was still with you:
Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me
in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms."
45Then he opened their minds
so they could understand the Scriptures."
.
Labels: Bible Study
Monday, September 10, 2007
Ready, Set!
Fall Bible Study at Cherish...the word!
begins Wednesday, September 12.
Please plan to join us. You can read about it here, here, and here.
I hope I haven't totally confused you in my eagerness to get this started. It is really simple--just come on over on Wednesday and join in. Even if you don't have a book or access to the videos, come on over and see how you can participate. Mr. Linky will be up and we will enjoy God's Word together.
This past weekend I was privileged to go to the Deeper Still event in Nashville where Beth Moore, Kay Arthur, and Priscilla Shirer shared The Word with over 20,000 women. It was magnificent! I was only able to attend on Friday night. Priscilla Shirer was the featured speaker that evening.
I had never heard Priscilla speak. I'm embarrassed to say I have her latest Bible Study (including videos) published by Lifeway sitting right here on my shelf. A friend gave a copy to Lee awhile back. I have not watched a video! Shame on me.!I will be doing that SOON. The girl has a gift and a talent that she is using for the Lord! What a blessing to hear her!
Going with my dil on Friday night was just the little boost I needed before starting Bible Study this week. A group of women will be meeting with me tonight at my home as we begin the A Woman's Heart Study. This is the UPDATED version of Beth Moore's study that was first released in the mid 90s. It is a study of the Old Testament tabernacle. Beth will lead us to explore how God desires a relationship with us and how we can accomplish that in our lives today. It is a fascinating journey through the Bible to a deeper relationship with the Father.
begins on Wednesday, September 12.
This past weekend I was privileged to go to the Deeper Still event in Nashville where Beth Moore, Kay Arthur, and Priscilla Shirer shared The Word with over 20,000 women. It was magnificent! I was only able to attend on Friday night. Priscilla Shirer was the featured speaker that evening.
I had never heard Priscilla speak. I'm embarrassed to say I have her latest Bible Study (including videos) published by Lifeway sitting right here on my shelf. A friend gave a copy to Lee awhile back. I have not watched a video! Shame on me.!I will be doing that SOON. The girl has a gift and a talent that she is using for the Lord! What a blessing to hear her!
Going with my dil on Friday night was just the little boost I needed before starting Bible Study this week. A group of women will be meeting with me tonight at my home as we begin the A Woman's Heart Study. This is the UPDATED version of Beth Moore's study that was first released in the mid 90s. It is a study of the Old Testament tabernacle. Beth will lead us to explore how God desires a relationship with us and how we can accomplish that in our lives today. It is a fascinating journey through the Bible to a deeper relationship with the Father.
I will be back here on Wednesday to share the Introductory Session. Actually, I'll be here tomorrow with a reflection on September 11, 2001.
Fall Bible Study on Cherish...the word!begins on Wednesday, September 12.
Labels: Bible Study
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Fall Bible Study--Preview
I'm so excited about Fall Bible Study that I can't wait 'til next week to begin. So, I'm having a little trial run today. Ladies, this is out of the ol' comfort zone for me--and a huge leap of faith. Having Bible study at home or leading sessions at church is one thing--putting it out on the world wide web is quite another. In addition, you need to understand that tech things that work for other people--sometimes not so much for me! Therefore, although next week is the announced and official beginning of Fall Bible Study at Cherish... the word! I'm going to do a little preview of things to come!Tech Stuff
1. Mr. Linky--I have never done this and I want to see if it really works for me--Read line above for explanation of my anxiety! If you are planning to participate in Bible Study--or if you just want to humor me--sign up, post something on your site about Bible Study--and leave a comment. Thank you!
Edited to say: Yay! I got Mr. Linky on here!
You just don't know how happy that makes me!
Happy dance! Happy Dance!
2. Bible Study Button--Leigh Ann is the smart friend who made the button at the top of this post--using a photo I took. Smart lady, isn't she.? She also won a book in the Giveaway. And, I promise, one had nothing to do with the other. Her comment number truly did come up on the random number generator! If you want to link back with the button, please email and I will send you the code.You just don't know how happy that makes me!
Happy dance! Happy Dance!
Bible Study
Next week my real life home study group will be meeting for the first time. We will be viewing the Introductory DVD and completing the viewer guide page in our book. Our discussion will center on what is ahead for us in this study and why we are here. Therefore, that's what we will discuss here at Cherish... next week.
This study is about the tabernacle and the importance of it as God's Dwelling place. BUT--It is a whole lot more than that. If you have studied with Beth before, you know that she will lead you on a treasure hunt of the scriptures. She will show us, through the study of the tabernacle, how God wants to live with us and talk with us. In addition, she will show us through scripture how His plan for dwelling with us has been, and will continue to be, in place for eternity. Friends, this is POWERFUL!
I have watched the first DVD--actually I have watched all of them, but that's another story! I have recently watched the introductory DVD and I am overwhelmed and astounded by this study. If you are doing this on your own with us, I REALLY encourage you to download the video at Lifeway. You will be blessed and it will really help you understand what is ahead. If you have never studied with Beth you will be blessed beyond your expectations and you will certainly appreciate her passion for the Lord and his Word.
If you haven't bought a book yet, go get one, girls! You can pick them up at Lifeway stores or on line here. I ordered the Giveaway books through Ama*zon because delivery was guaranteed to be a little bit faster. (Which was kind of funny to me because Amazon orders probably come from the same place--the Lifeway warehouse about fifteen miles from my home)! BTW, I'm tracking those Giveaway books and you should be receiving them VERY soon!
By the way, if there are some real life friends lurking out there today--If I have not invited you to join us for study at my house, I apologize. My Bad! You are certainly welcome. Come on out. I will have a book for you. You can call me for the information. Lee will be glad to see you, but he will not be joining us for study. If you know him, you know he does love some Bible study with Beth!
FOR TODAY--
1. Sign up below and post a comment about Fall Bible Study at your blog. Please leave a comment so I know if you will be joining us.
2. Get your A Woman's Heart Study Book--also called Member Book--
4. Plan to view the Introductory DVD and come back next week to discuss the beginning of the study.
FOR NEXT WEDNESDAY--
1. Be sure to read: Exodus 25:1-2, 89 Luke: 24:25-27 Revelation 15:5
2. View the Introductory video if possible.
3. Some of you are in study groups that have already started. Please review/remember what you did in the introductory session and use that for your post.
3. In your post next week, let us know how you are doing this study (by yourself, with a friend, in a group, at church, in a home, etc).
4. In your post about Beth's introductory lesson you can take off in any direction you feel led to go. If you need a nudge, try this--What does it mean to you that God pursues you and wants a relationship with you?
My goal for this Bible study is for us to search the scripture together and learn more about the way God desires and plans to have a relationship with us that will further His Kingdom. I also hope that, along the way, we have some bloggy fun and fellowship. If you have questions or suggestions please use the comments section or email me at cherishtw@comcast.net.
Labels: Bible Study
Friday, August 31, 2007
Bible Study Giveaway
Congratulations to the ladies listed below for winning the Fall Bible Study Giveaway! They will be receiving a copy of the study book for Beth Moore's, A Woman's Heart. Ladies, please remember I need an address in order to have a book sent to you.Laurie at Dance With Sound
amberly at Moments Amid Messes
Leigh Ann at Living to Learn and Learning to Live
Tammy at Family Doin's
cherdecor at cherdecor --Oops! I first said cherdecor did not have a blog. I was wrong. She does and you can find her right there at that link. go on over and visit her! Sorry!
I hope all of these ladies, and all the rest of you, will study along with us in the Fall Bible Study here at Cherish...the word! There are several ways you can participate. I have talked in some detail, about this here. Briefly, you can:
• Find a group near you to enjoy the study in real life. Come to Cherish on Wednesdays and link your post in which you comment about your experiences with your group and in your own individual study of the Word.
• Get a book from Lifeway or Amazon and study along with us with just the book. You will miss the blessing of Beth's video messages, but you will definitely get the meat of the study. Link up with us on Wednesday and tell us about your Bible study experiences.
• Use the book and study along with us. Download the videos or the audio version of Beth's message. Come to Cherish on Wednesdays and link your post with your discussion of your Bible study experience for the week.
I am looking forward to this experience. It is definitely an experiment and a challenge for me. I started the study myself this past week. OH! MY! GOODNESS! It is going to be great! I did the first day's work on the plane coming back from Texas. I'll tell you about that in a post in a few days. Just know I had me some worship time on that plane going over the Mississippi River!
I WILL BE STARTING MY POSTS FOR THE BIBLE STUDY ON SEPTEMBER 5. WE WILL START THE LINKING UP PARTICIPANT POSTS ON WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 12.
Hope you choose to join us!
I hope you will decide to join us.
Labels: Bible Study, Bloggy Giveaway
Friday, August 24, 2007
Returned to original post site/date on August 31, 12:15 AM
This is a Sticky Post for the Bible Study Giveaway.
Original date: 8/24/07
It will stay here until Thursday night 8/30/07 about midnight.
I will announce the winners on Friday.
Scroll past this for my current post.
This is a Sticky Post for the Bible Study Giveaway.
Original date: 8/24/07
It will stay here until Thursday night 8/30/07 about midnight.
I will announce the winners on Friday.
Scroll past this for my current post.
I know! I know! I promised you a surprise on Thursday! Well, Thursday went by in a blur at my house--More about that in a little bit. I promised a surprise and I plan to deliver. Here we go!
A GIVEAWAY
For those of you planning to participate in
Fall Bible Study at Cherish...the word!
A Woman's Heart
by Beth Moore
This giveaway is very simple. Just leave me a comment on this post and let me know you would like to be included in the drawing. Be sure you leave a valid email address so I can get in touch with you concerning your real address.
I will leave this post up until next Thursday, 8/30. Then I will either have a drawing or use a random number generator to pick the winners--depending on how many participate. (I'm not making a ginormous number of little slips with names on them like I did for the last giveaway!)
If you do not know about Fall Bible Study at Cherish...the word! you can read my Wednesday post to get all the info. I hope you will consider joining us for this study. I think it will be great to learn together!
≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠
I am going to Texas to visit my brother. He has been diagnosed with a recurrence of cancer and is in the process of beginning radiation and chemo. My sister--who also lives in Texas but not in the same city--and I decided to go visit him this weekend. Our stepsister, who lives near my brother, will also be with us. We are going to love on him and give him our support as he begins this battle. He had surgery last year for this cancer. At his spring check-up there was no sign of cancer. Last week his doctors found that it had returned.
I wrote about my brother and his wife when they celebrated their fiftieth wedding anniversary in July. He is my only brother and is very special in my life. I am praying that God will use these doctors to provide a miracle. I love him and his whole precious family so very much.
This is going to be a quick trip. Some of you have read about my husband's illness. It is not easy for me to decide to be gone for several days. However, our sons will be with Lee while I am gone. He will be well cared for. I think they're planning a MAN Weekend! That's means non-stop sports--talk, TV, fantasy team strategizing, reminiscing about their own "glory days", etc! They probably won't even notice I'm gone!
You're not likely to see a post from me this weekend. I may be around reading and commenting a little bit. I'll be back early next week. Please keep my whole family in your prayers this weekend.
My plane leaves in 8 hours. I need to get some sleep!
Fall Bible Study at Cherish...the word!
A Woman's Heart
by Beth Moore
A benefactor has provided five books for a
Fall Bible Study Giveaway!
Yes, I said FIVE!
Five of these!
This is the description of this new study from Lifeway's on-line catalog:
Fall Bible Study Giveaway!
Yes, I said FIVE!
Five of these!
This is the description of this new study from Lifeway's on-line catalog:"Discover the parallels of the Tabernacle’s building and your life as a chosen vessel of God.
While the title is familiar, the content for this in-depth video teaching series is all new and rich in detail.
Taken primarily from the Book of Exodus, A Woman’s Heart: God’s Dwelling Place by Beth Moore will take you on a fascinating journey into why God would chose to live in a wilderness tabernacle, made by human hands.
Taped in Beth’s home church in Houston, this updated edition of A Woman’s Heart contains all new video footage and exciting new graphics. Regardless of whether you studied Beth Moore’s first LifeWay study years ago, you’ll find A Woman’s Heart well worth another visit."
This giveaway is very simple. Just leave me a comment on this post and let me know you would like to be included in the drawing. Be sure you leave a valid email address so I can get in touch with you concerning your real address.
I will leave this post up until next Thursday, 8/30. Then I will either have a drawing or use a random number generator to pick the winners--depending on how many participate. (I'm not making a ginormous number of little slips with names on them like I did for the last giveaway!)
If you do not know about Fall Bible Study at Cherish...the word! you can read my Wednesday post to get all the info. I hope you will consider joining us for this study. I think it will be great to learn together!
≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠≠
Prayers Please!
I am going to Texas to visit my brother. He has been diagnosed with a recurrence of cancer and is in the process of beginning radiation and chemo. My sister--who also lives in Texas but not in the same city--and I decided to go visit him this weekend. Our stepsister, who lives near my brother, will also be with us. We are going to love on him and give him our support as he begins this battle. He had surgery last year for this cancer. At his spring check-up there was no sign of cancer. Last week his doctors found that it had returned.
I wrote about my brother and his wife when they celebrated their fiftieth wedding anniversary in July. He is my only brother and is very special in my life. I am praying that God will use these doctors to provide a miracle. I love him and his whole precious family so very much.
This is going to be a quick trip. Some of you have read about my husband's illness. It is not easy for me to decide to be gone for several days. However, our sons will be with Lee while I am gone. He will be well cared for. I think they're planning a MAN Weekend! That's means non-stop sports--talk, TV, fantasy team strategizing, reminiscing about their own "glory days", etc! They probably won't even notice I'm gone!
You're not likely to see a post from me this weekend. I may be around reading and commenting a little bit. I'll be back early next week. Please keep my whole family in your prayers this weekend.
My plane leaves in 8 hours. I need to get some sleep!
Labels: Bible Study, Bloggy Giveaway, Family
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Fall Bible Study at Cherish...the Word!
Fall Bible Study
At Cherish…the Word!
A Woman’s Heart--Updated
By Beth Moore
An updated version of A Woman’s Heart--Beth Moore’s very first video Bible study--was recently released, and some dear friends brought a copy to me. That started me thinking about how I could share this study with other women. What I believe the Lord led me to is this—I will lead a small group Bible study in my home that will meet one day a week this fall. That’s pretty normal. However, I have all these blogging friends that I would also like to share with…
So, here is the extra kick to Fall Bible Study @ Cherish… the Word. I want you to come over to my place once a week, and we’ll share Bible study together with Beth. You will need to do your individual study before we meet weekly at Cherish... Here are some ways you can do that:
• Join a Bible study group in your area. There may be one at your church or somewhere else in your community. If you don’t know of one, you can look on the Bible Study Group Bulletin Board at Living Proof Ministries.
• You could purchase A Woman’s Heart Bible Study Kit and invite a group of friends to your house to study together. The Leader Guide in the kit gives you all the information you need. I assure you it would be a double blessing for you. It’s not particularly cheap—maybe you can find one to borrow! ☺
• You could study by yourself or with a friend. You will need the printed group member book and access to the videos, or the audio component of the videos. Now, you know there are all kinds of copyright laws and things that keep me from being able to share Beth’s videos and the printed study on my blog. I can’t run over to YouTube and throw the video on there, and I can’t copy the study for you on my blog. However, you can go to LifeWay and download, for a fee, the videos. There is also an audio component available at LifeWay and on iTunes. The printed member books are available for purchase online through LifeWay and at Lifeway stores.
By the way—I do not work for LifeWay Christian Resources or Living Proof Ministries. I am not being paid by either of these organizations. I simply wanted to host a blogging Bible study activity at Cherish…the Word! I have completed several of Beth’s studies, have been privileged to be at the taping of some of them, and love her as a sister in Christ. I was excited when this update was available and chose to use it for this experimental Bible study journey.
If you have ever read the LPM Blog, you know that Beth and her daughter, Amanda--who manages the blog—do love their “blogging Sistas!” If you have not stopped by their blog you have missed a blessing. I suggest you hurry over there. And--After all, I did discover the wonderful world of blogging through the LPM blog! You can read about that here. I did let Beth know about the idea for this blogging study. Her response was typical Beth. Something about the hairs sticking up on her arms and chill bumps! If you “know” her, you understand that. She ended with, “Myrna, I cannot say AMEN loudly enough! YOU GO, GIRL!
My real life study group is going to meet in my home on Monday evenings. I will put up my discussion notes from the week’s study by Wednesday 12:00AM EST (that’s Tuesday 11:00 PM where I live). I will have a Mr. Linky up.
You can sign up on Mr. Linky for us to come back to your place. You will share a summary of what you learned in your own study, a wrap-up of what people in your group had to say, pictures of irl friends at your group meeting (with their permission, of course), or whatever creative thing you come up with that will enrich our Bible study. You can grab the Fall Bible Study Button for your site. When we get started, I will ask that you leave a comment on my blog when you link up.
Each week I will offer one or two discussion starter ideas for the next week. You are certainly welcome to base your posts on your personal perspective, or that of others in your group. Some people will appreciate the discussion starter suggestions; some will have something else relevant they prefer to talk about. Either way works for me.
I would like to emphasize that I want this endeavor to glorify and honor the Lord. You may want to tell a funny story about your Bible study group, share an anecdote, etc. And that is OK—as long as you have permission from you group, that’s your choice and responsibility. We definitely want to have fun and fellowship along the way! But, please, remember that this is a Bible study, and we want to focus on what we have learned from the Bible as we have fun with our girlfriends!
There are eleven weeks in the study. It starts with a video Introduction in which Beth sets the stage for us. Each of the ten week’s lessons includes five days of readings and a video message by Beth that will “bless your socks off.”
Come over to Cherish… the Word between September 5-September 11 for any updates about the study and for the discussion starter ideas for the Introduction session. And--BTW--Come back tomorrow for another bit of news!
I just can’t wait to get started! I’ve been thinking and praying about this for a long time. Now I have committed to it by posting the details. I invite you to join me, and let’s just enjoy what God has in store for us!
So, here is the extra kick to Fall Bible Study @ Cherish… the Word. I want you to come over to my place once a week, and we’ll share Bible study together with Beth. You will need to do your individual study before we meet weekly at Cherish... Here are some ways you can do that:
• Join a Bible study group in your area. There may be one at your church or somewhere else in your community. If you don’t know of one, you can look on the Bible Study Group Bulletin Board at Living Proof Ministries.
• You could purchase A Woman’s Heart Bible Study Kit and invite a group of friends to your house to study together. The Leader Guide in the kit gives you all the information you need. I assure you it would be a double blessing for you. It’s not particularly cheap—maybe you can find one to borrow! ☺
• You could study by yourself or with a friend. You will need the printed group member book and access to the videos, or the audio component of the videos. Now, you know there are all kinds of copyright laws and things that keep me from being able to share Beth’s videos and the printed study on my blog. I can’t run over to YouTube and throw the video on there, and I can’t copy the study for you on my blog. However, you can go to LifeWay and download, for a fee, the videos. There is also an audio component available at LifeWay and on iTunes. The printed member books are available for purchase online through LifeWay and at Lifeway stores.
By the way—I do not work for LifeWay Christian Resources or Living Proof Ministries. I am not being paid by either of these organizations. I simply wanted to host a blogging Bible study activity at Cherish…the Word! I have completed several of Beth’s studies, have been privileged to be at the taping of some of them, and love her as a sister in Christ. I was excited when this update was available and chose to use it for this experimental Bible study journey.
If you have ever read the LPM Blog, you know that Beth and her daughter, Amanda--who manages the blog—do love their “blogging Sistas!” If you have not stopped by their blog you have missed a blessing. I suggest you hurry over there. And--After all, I did discover the wonderful world of blogging through the LPM blog! You can read about that here. I did let Beth know about the idea for this blogging study. Her response was typical Beth. Something about the hairs sticking up on her arms and chill bumps! If you “know” her, you understand that. She ended with, “Myrna, I cannot say AMEN loudly enough! YOU GO, GIRL!
My real life study group is going to meet in my home on Monday evenings. I will put up my discussion notes from the week’s study by Wednesday 12:00AM EST (that’s Tuesday 11:00 PM where I live). I will have a Mr. Linky up.
You can sign up on Mr. Linky for us to come back to your place. You will share a summary of what you learned in your own study, a wrap-up of what people in your group had to say, pictures of irl friends at your group meeting (with their permission, of course), or whatever creative thing you come up with that will enrich our Bible study. You can grab the Fall Bible Study Button for your site. When we get started, I will ask that you leave a comment on my blog when you link up.
Each week I will offer one or two discussion starter ideas for the next week. You are certainly welcome to base your posts on your personal perspective, or that of others in your group. Some people will appreciate the discussion starter suggestions; some will have something else relevant they prefer to talk about. Either way works for me.
I would like to emphasize that I want this endeavor to glorify and honor the Lord. You may want to tell a funny story about your Bible study group, share an anecdote, etc. And that is OK—as long as you have permission from you group, that’s your choice and responsibility. We definitely want to have fun and fellowship along the way! But, please, remember that this is a Bible study, and we want to focus on what we have learned from the Bible as we have fun with our girlfriends!
There are eleven weeks in the study. It starts with a video Introduction in which Beth sets the stage for us. Each of the ten week’s lessons includes five days of readings and a video message by Beth that will “bless your socks off.”
Come over to Cherish… the Word between September 5-September 11 for any updates about the study and for the discussion starter ideas for the Introduction session. And--BTW--Come back tomorrow for another bit of news!
I just can’t wait to get started! I’ve been thinking and praying about this for a long time. Now I have committed to it by posting the details. I invite you to join me, and let’s just enjoy what God has in store for us!
Here’s the schedule for Fall Bible Study at Cherish…the Word!
September 12 Introduction
September 19 Lesson 1 Broken Hearts, Broken Ties
September 26 Lesson 2 New Starts and Barren Hearts
October 3 Lesson 3 Prepared Hearts
October 10 Lesson 4 Hearts Approaching the Altar
October 17 Lesson 5 Hearts in Fellowship
October 24 Lesson 6 The Heart of a Servant
October 31 Lesson 7 A Heart That Interceded
November 7 Lesson 8 Hearts Beyond the Veil
November 14 Lesson 9 The Heart of the Testimony
November 21 My home group will likely take the week off because of school holidays. If we choose to do that, we will finish up the next week. If we take the week off, I will plan a special Bible Study activity for blogging friends that week. Stay connected to find out what we will do!
November 28 Lesson 10 Mended Hearts, Eternal Ties
September 19 Lesson 1 Broken Hearts, Broken Ties
September 26 Lesson 2 New Starts and Barren Hearts
October 3 Lesson 3 Prepared Hearts
October 10 Lesson 4 Hearts Approaching the Altar
October 17 Lesson 5 Hearts in Fellowship
October 24 Lesson 6 The Heart of a Servant
October 31 Lesson 7 A Heart That Interceded
November 7 Lesson 8 Hearts Beyond the Veil
November 14 Lesson 9 The Heart of the Testimony
November 21 My home group will likely take the week off because of school holidays. If we choose to do that, we will finish up the next week. If we take the week off, I will plan a special Bible Study activity for blogging friends that week. Stay connected to find out what we will do!
November 28 Lesson 10 Mended Hearts, Eternal Ties
Mark your calendar,
get your book,
and be ready to start
September 12!
Remember to come back here tomorrow--A surprise for you!
Labels: Bible Study, Faith
