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Ignite Day 1 The Wick

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Read His Words Before Ours!

Isaiah 43:1-4
Acts 4:29-31
Acts 2:42-47
Luke 11:31-36
James 3:1-12

Ignite, Day 1

“My heart is the wick, Your love is the flame. And I wanna burn for Your Name.”

Merriam-Webster defines ignite as “To set afire. To cause to burn. To subject to fire or intense heat. To heat up. To set in motion.”

Have you ever built a campfire from scratch? In order for your fire to catch and grow, you need everything set up in exactly the right order. First, you gather lots of small, dry branches and twigs, leaves, paper and anything else that will catch fire quickly. This is called kindling. You’ll have more success if you pile the dry twigs and branches on top of the kindling. Next, you position larger logs over your kindling, being sure to leave space for air to flow under the logs.

Then, you strike your match and set the kindling on fire. As the flames grow and start to spread to the smaller twigs and branches, you might blow on the flame, or poke it with a long stick, to stir it up more. The flame grows and burns hotter, and as it does, the larger branches and logs grow hotter until they begin to catch fire, too.

Love, I have to be honest with you. When I picked up the assignment to write this Journey about Polycarp and Ignatius, I had literally never heard of them in my life. In fact, as I sat in our writer’s meeting and scanned the list of upcoming Journeys, I felt…

Uneducated.
Lacking.
Ill-equipped.

Ouch. And to add insult to injury? The truth is that I didn’t feel any real desire or curiosity to dig deeper into the lives of any of these historical fathers of the faith.

So, I did what any self-respecting fringe millennial would do. I picked the ones with names I could not really pronounce, pseudo-affectionately dubbed them, “Iggy & Poly” in my mind, threw my inexperience to the wind and dived in deep.

And here we are. But before I can fully introduce you to Ignatius and Polycarp, we have to go back a little further. In order to do that, we’ll stick with the campfire picture we just processed together.

Stay with me, this is important.

The Kindling
Before Jesus arrived as the promised Emmanuel, God With Us, we need to visualize the spiritual climate in Israel. God’s people were effectively trapped in a religious box of their own making. Where He had set out His law to protect and free them, they instead chose to chain themselves to religion and more. They created their own laws and rules in addition to His, and rather than trusting God to justify them through sacrifice and the atonement of sins, they adopted a religious spirit. They thought they could justify themselves. This resulted in a prideful people group who were desperate for truth, purpose and relationship, yet still rigidly clung to the very things that held them captive.
They were empty. Dry.

Spiritually dead.

The Spark
Enter Jesus.

When the Son of God slipped quietly onto the Bethlehem scene in the form of an infant… the Jewish people were confused.

They had asked for a king.
Someone who would fulfill the Law.
Someone who could rescue them.
And God answered, because that was His plan all along.

But He didn’t answer in the way they wanted, or the way they expected. Instead, He sent Jesus to fulfill the Law in the way that only Jesus ever could. And because the people who prayed for rescue didn’t see it coming in the way they expected, the majority missed the message the Son of Man brought to life.

However, there were those positioned closest to Jesus who recognized the Truth and began to smolder from His heat. These apostles were disciples in word and deed. They spent time with Jesus in His everyday life and ministry.

They saw Him perform miracle after miracle, healing after healing.
They witnessed Jesus in life, in death,
and then in life again.
They got it.

More importantly, they caught it. And when He told them to go, they went.

They began to walk out their faith in boldness, preaching the gospel to all who would listen. They healed the sick, and cast out demons. They taught others about the life of Jesus, what His death and resurrection meant, and why it mattered. They devoted themselves to studying the Scriptures, to praying, and fellowship.

And their numbers grew exponentially.

And Love? The ones Jesus chose to draw into His closest circle?
The ones He trusted to catch fire first – and to fan the flame?
They were unquestionably the last people anyone would expect to fulfill that weighty calling. In fact, you or I might have even called them….

Uneducated.
Lacking.
Ill-equipped.

But God saw them differently.

The early church began to grow against all odds in the face of extreme opposition.
In the weakness and humanity of the ordinary men and women who spread the message and ministry of Jesus, God was shown strong.
Whole families began to receive the message of Jesus,
and though persecution was commonplace, Christianity caught fire.

The church continued to grow until one day, as Saul of Tarsus walked the road to Damascus, the resurrected Christ Himself appeared to him. Prior to this face-to-face, Saul had been instrumental in persecuting countless followers of Christ, with the full support of the Jewish leaders. Saul’s resulting sudden and whole-heart, whole-life, jaw-dropping conversion fanned the flickering flame to a roar. Saul became known as Paul, and he adopted the lifestyle of the other apostles, discipling others, encouraging young leaders in the church, and delivering truth and challenge in love to all he encountered.

And the flame began to grow.

As for my friends, Poly and Iggy, I’ll introduce you on Wednesday of this week. 🙂

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Seeds Day 15 Outside The Lines

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Read His Words Before Ours!

Acts 10:9-33
Acts 10:34-43
Acts 10:44-48
Romans 5:1-11

Seeds, Day 15

Parenting is all about navigating new territory on a continually shifting landscape.
Parenting teens is that description to the nth degree.
Nothing ever stays the same. (well, rarely every)
The moment you feel you have it figured out, everything is new. Throw in vocabulary that also changes by the day, making you feel like you’ve walked into a new culture by the minute, and parenting feels like a whirlwind.

Like….
Skirrrt those nasty pickles, but the fries are dope.
That dude’s party was lit, but I was so salty when no one liked my dessert.
There ya’ go, that’s the tea sis!
But I’ll stop now before ya’ll think I’m cringy. 🙂

One constant (at least mostly) for my oldest son has been his affinity for “good” music. While our definitions of “good” are pretty different most days, it’s a conversation we can have any time, any day. My son is a deep thinker, always looking at things from a unique perspective, which pairs well with my theological core as I love to slow down and think through the roots and implications of a small part connected to a bigger picture. He and I have spent countless conversations listening to lyrics, hitting pause, and then poking at the words for what they really mean instead of just drinking them in.
“Mom, I have a new song for you.”
“What about these words, Mom, what do you think he is thinking?”

Sometimes, he’s surprised that a favorite song of his actually has a meaning he didn’t expect, and sometimes, I’m surprised (and encouraged) by the songs he chooses to share.

Today was one of those surprises.
For me.

It was another daily drive to gymnastics, and another playlist. A couple of songs, a couple of thoughts, and then one he hadn’t shared before played, arresting my attention from the first note to the last.

I met Craig at a church called Redeeming Grace
It’s like he understood my “I don’t want to be here” face
I felt out of place and I smelled like beer
But he just shook my hand, said “I’m glad you’re here”
He says, “we’ll all be judged”
But he was never judgmental.

As Walker Hayes crooned on and the images he painted came to life in my mind, all I could see were all the “Craigs” I knew, all the times I’d seen my husband be “Craig”, how my own heart beat passionately to be “Craig”, and how Jesus calls each and every believer to be Craig.

I still ain’t figured out church yet
But Craig, I get
Nah he can’t walk on water, turn the Napa Valley red
But he just might be tight with a man that did
Now he’s not the light of the world
But I wish that mine was bright as his
Yeah, he just might be tight with a man that is.

Girls, Craig gets it!
He knows the truth of Jesus, he has been transformed and renewed by the deepest of graces found in the forgiving, sacrificial blood of Jesus spilled on his behalf.
Craig is indeed “tight with the man” who is The Redeemer.
And he knows redemption is meant for all.

Jesus is the Rescuer
for teenage boys who think they get it all, but are struggling to find themselves.

Jesus is the Rescuer
for teenage girls who change their friend groups like they change their clothes, wondering what they were made for.

Jesus is the Rescuer
for the one sitting on the edge of his bed, pills in hand, feeling he’s worthless and without value.

Jesus is the Rescue for….
the tattoo artist whose fingers smell like drugs,
the girl who vapes at the park so her parents won’t find out,
the husband who can’t stop looking at porn or justifying his glances,
the woman at the gym who goes home to a husband who “owns” her,
the mom who hides her food addiction, wondering if she will always feel shallow and ugly,
the guy who cusses loud and shamelessly as he makes your coffee,
the girl who writes this Journey with tears gathering because she knows
she’s just like all of them.

See, Jesus came to push us outside of our pretty little lines.
He gives us the permanent marker of His love, grace, and truth, and says, “go to all, exclude none.”

Go Outside The Lines

Peter had been redeemed years earlier.
He thought he had this Jesus-life pretty figured out. He’d learned first-hand what it looked like to live out love as he literally walked beside Jesus. He watched His Savior be crucified, and was breathless when he realized the tomb was now empty and Death was defeated. The Holy Spirit had indwelt him and given him powerful boldness to reach thousands with the gospel.
He knew all of that, but The Redeemer intended more.

The Lord gave Peter a vision, commanding him,
“Do not call common what God has made clean.” (Acts 10:15)
In essence, “Stop pushing others away and automatically excluding them from My redemption because of your predetermined judgment lines.

Sisters, let’s decide to live out our days asking, “what if we colored outside the lines?”.
Like Craig.
Like Peter.
Like Jesus, who died for us while we kept on loving our sin more than the Savior.

We don’t walk on water, but because we are tight with the One who did,
we can love beyond our lines!

“Did you like that one, Mom? I picked it just for you.”
“Yeah. Yeah, I liked that one, and I’m not even salty we listened to your music all the way here.”
“Salty?!”, with eyebrows raised. “Wow, Mom…well played!”.

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Embracing God’s fullness in our lives is rooted in scripture and memorizing His word is vital to our continued growth and depth with Jesus. Tap and hold from your mobile device to download this week’s verse and make it your phone’s lockscreen!

Thanks for joining us today as we journeyed into Seeds Week Three! Don’t miss out on the discussion below – we’d love to hear your thoughts!
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Seeds Day 11 Seeds Of Encouragement

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Read His Words Before Ours!

Acts 1:6-11
Acts 9:26-27
Acts 11:19-30

Seeds, Day 11

We all come to Jesus under different circumstances and with a past.
A past without Him.
Some of those pasts are basically “forgettable”, while others are more difficult to leave behind.

The apostle Paul was no exception.

None would argue the impact Paul had on the early Church, an influence which continues to the church today.  Through the power of the Holy Spirit, he preached the good news of Jesus and because of his influence, many have come into a relationship with Jesus.  However, Paul, who began life as Saul, had a past.
A past quite different than the one we most attribute to him.

Before Saul met Jesus on the road to Damascus, his purpose was in direct opposition to the one for which he is most remembered.  In fact, he was on that road to carry out that purpose: to stop the Gospel’s advancement by killing Christians!

However, Jesus met him and changed EVERYTHING!!  (Paul’s story!)

While Paul’s purpose immediately changed after meeting Jesus, others were not so quick to forget his past.  The disciples in Jerusalem were afraid to associate with Saul, remembering who he was and what he had done. How could God use such a dramatic story if no one would give him audience because of his past?

It wasn’t until Barnabas came alongside Saul, affirming him, supporting him, and sharing his story, that others began to believe Saul had really changed and began working with him, instead of against him.  Acts 11:24 describes Barnabas as “a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith”. Barnabas believed Paul, but more so, he trusted what God could accomplish by His Spirit through a humbled heart. Because Barnabas had experienced God’s transformation for Himself, he was able to rejoice in what God alone had done while encouraging others to do the same.  Barnabas supported and encouraged Paul, ministering with him as they taught and edified the church to stay true to the Lord.

But suppose Barnabas had not affirmed Paul?

A high school girl I know has a personal mission. She has chosen to sit by another girl in church who has mild special needs, writing questions which correspond to the message, allowing her friend to interact with the sermon in ways she can better understand.
How easy it would be to allow irritation to take root or simply issue a reprimand.
What if we, like my young friend, chose instead to take someone aside, get to know them, and see how we might be able to help them learn more about Jesus? What if we come alongside another for the sake of the Kingdom so someone else can understand Jesus better?

What if, instead of coming to conclusions about the mom with disruptive kids in the grocery store who are interfering with our peace, we understood that she too has a story. What if we whispered a kind word instead of giving a judging look?

What if that child in your classroom who asks for attention in inappropriate ways is the child who ends the day in an empty home or a home with little or negative attention?  Suppose we got to know that child and took him under our wing, helping him succeed while possibly opening an opportunity for the gospel because of your investment?

What if?

How would our churches, our communities, and our schools change
if we began seeing others as image bearers of our Father
and people for whom Jesus died?

In Acts 1:8, Jesus gives His followers the charge of being His witnesses to those in our sphere of influence. To extend hope and encouragement like Barnabas did in our homes, communities, and businesses, we must get close to people, hear their stories, and be exposed to the uncomfortable.

We all have a past, some appear darker than others, but in reality,
we are all the same without Jesus!

Because Jesus changed him, Barnabas knew Jesus could change Paul.
If Jesus has changed me, I must believe He can do the same for others, even those I’m hesitant to engage.
What might God do when our hearts are ready to hear and obey Him?
Who might God want you to come alongside to encourage and make a difference for His Kingdom?
Ask, and trust the Holy Spirit to guide you!

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Embracing God’s fullness in our lives is rooted in scripture and memorizing His word is vital to our continued growth and depth with Jesus. Tap and hold from your mobile device to download this week’s verse and make it your phone’s lockscreen!

Thanks for joining us today as we journeyed into Seeds Week 3! Don’t miss out on the discussion below – we’d love to hear your thoughts!

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Anchored Day 12 The Lord’s Gym: Digging Deeper

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Digging Deeper Days

Finding the original intent of Scripture and making good application to our everyday lives as we become equipped to correctly handle the Word of Truth!

Yesterday’s Journey Study connects with today’s!
Check out The Lord’s Gym!

The Questions

1) Who is the “you” in this passage?

2) What is the overall theme of this chapter in Titus?

3) The word, “train” or “training” is used several times in this passage. What does it mean to train biblically?

Titus 2

But as for you, teach what accords with sound doctrine. 2 Older men are to be sober-minded, dignified, self-controlled, sound in faith, in love, and in steadfastness. 3 Older women likewise are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers or slaves to much wine. They are to teach what is good, 4 and so train the young women to love their husbands and children, 5 to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled. 6 Likewise, urge the younger men to be self-controlled. 7 Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, 8 and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us. 9 Bondservants are to be submissive to their own masters in everything; they are to be well-pleasing, not argumentative,10 not pilfering, but showing all good faith, so that in everything they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior.

11 For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people,12 training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, 13 waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, 14 who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works.

15 Declare these things; exhort and rebuke with all authority. Let no one disregard you.

Original Intent

1) Who is the “you” in this passage?
Paul is speaking directly to Titus as he begins chapter two. He is instructing Titus, as the pastor, to teach sound doctrine. That is of utmost importance for a church to function properly and honor God as his body representing Him on this earth. Paul then proceeds to discuss various roles within the local church body.

2) What is the overall theme of this chapter in Titus?
This passage clearly lays out the importance of teaching and learning from one another as well as holding one another accountable in the way we each represent Christ. This is a biblical mandate for the Church, that men and women alike teach and model Christ-like behavior. This passage goes a step further by giving clear boundaries on what specific behaviors honor God.

3) The word, “train” or “training” is used several times in this passage. What does it mean to train biblically?
Thayer’s Dictionary defines the uses of “train” and “training” as to instruct or teach as well as encourage. Paul is describing a type of relationship that exists between brothers and sisters in Christ where discipleship and growth happen because there is an intentionality in the DNA of the relationship to train and disciple one another.

Everyday Application

1) Who is the “you” in this passage?
Although the original intent was directed at Titus, the broader application for readers today is for leadership, specifically pastors and teachers within the church, to teach sound doctrine. One of the most important parts, if not the most important part, of a church is the accuracy and soundness of what is being taught from the pulpit, in the Sunday School class or Lifegroup, from the Bible Study, and on the mission field. The situation doesn’t matter, but the content that feeds the hearts and minds of believers must align with the absolute truths of Scripture. “Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness.” (James 3:1). As believers, we are given the Holy Spirit to help us discern God’s truths and live a life anchored in Him.

2)  What is the overall theme of this chapter in Titus?
This Biblical framework Paul gave Titus, and subsequently all of us, reveals the beauty of the body of Christ. The Christian life is not meant to be lived as an island, rather we are to sharpen and encourage one another to deepen our relationship with the Lord as a community of believers. We are to awaken ourselves and be intentional at working out our salvation by joining other believers and allowing other believers to join us in this thing we call life.

3)  The word, “train” or “training” is used several times in this passage. What does it mean to train biblically?
Training is not easy. I ran a half-marathon several years ago and it required “training” before hand for upwards of 6-9 months so I could complete the race. The Christian life is very much like that half-marathon except our finish line comes in eternity. I didn’t do it by myself, but I convinced a friend to join me because I knew it would be easier to train if someone was training with me to keep me accountable and run along side me during training and the race. We did it together. That is the picture of the Christian life, doing it together! We are never alone! We have the Holy Spirit as a “helper” in this life, but God also gives us the community of believers all across the world. We get to encourage those who maybe aren’t as far in their walk, we get to walk alongside those who are in the same spot we are in our journey, and we have opportunities to be pushed and pulled by more mature believers we intentionally seek out. Training is a biblical mandate for the Christian life and there is delightful, necessary community surrounding us when we are teachable and vulnerable to allow others into our lives.

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Digging Deeper is for Everyone!

1) Take this passage (or any other passage).
2) Read it, and the verses around it,
several times
3) Write down your questions
as you think of them.
4) Ask specific culture related questions and be ready to dig around for your answers. Google them, use www.studylight.org, or look them up in a study Bible and read the footnotes (click on the little letters next to a word and it will show you
other related verses!). (www.esvbible.org)
5) Check your applications with other trusted Christians that you are in community with and embrace the fullness of God
in your everyday!

Digging Deeper Community

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Our Current Study Theme!

This is Anchored Week Three!
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Why Dig Deeper?

Finding the original meaning is a huge deal when we study Scripture and can make all the difference in our understanding as we apply God’s truths to our everyday lives.

In our modern-day relationships, we want people to understand our original intention as we communicate; how much more so between God and humanity?!

Here’s a little bit more on why we take Digging Deeper so seriously.

Study Tools

We love getting help while we study and www.studylight.org is one of many excellent resources, providing the original Hebrew (Old Testament) or Greek (New Testament) with an English translation.

Want to know more about a specific word in a verse? Click on “Strong’s Interlinear Bible” then click the word you’d like to study. Discover “origin”, “definition” and hear the original pronunciation – That Is Awesome!

Want more background? Click “Study Tools”, then pick a few commentaries to read their scholarly approach, keeping in mind that just because a commentary says it, doesn’t mean it’s true. (just like the internet :-))

Memorize It!

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Anchored Day 2 Saints, Apostles, & Brothers: Digging Deeper

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Digging Deeper Days

Finding the original intent of Scripture and making good application to our everyday lives as we become equipped to correctly handle the Word of Truth!

Yesterday’s Journey Study connects with today’s!
Check out Saints, Apostles, & Brothers!

The Questions

1) Why does Paul call out that he is an apostle “by God’s will” and notes that Timothy is “our” brother? (verse 1)

2) Is there a significance to Paul’s greeting, “grace and peace to you from God our Father”? (verse 2)

3) Why would Paul include a reference to his prayers for this particular church in his greeting, especially since he hadn’t met them? (verse 3)

Colossians 1:1-3

Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by God’s will, and Timothy our brother:
To the saints in Christ at Colossae, who are faithful brothers and sisters.
Grace to you and peace from God our Father.
We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you

Original Intent

1) Why does Paul call out that he is an apostle “by God’s will” and notes that Timothy is “our” brother? (verse 1)
Paul was writing to Gentile believers he had never met; he had only “heard of their faith” through Epaphras. (verse 4, 7-8) Through Epaphras, the brothers and sisters in Colossae would have known who Paul was and of his missional heart for the Bride of Christ, His Church. They knew their own pastor, Epaphras, was a believer because of Paul’s willingness to extend the gospel and disciple him. To receive a letter of encouragement and instruction from Paul would have carried significant weight because of his reputation alone, but Paul doesn’t put any stock into man-made reputation. Instead, Paul puts the full weight of his authority and ability to speak truth over them as a church body on the effective call and will of God the Father, working in community with God the Son, Jesus Christ. Then, distancing himself even further from what could be seen as his “self-made-platform”, Paul identifies Timothy as the collective “our” brother in the Church. What Paul is preparing to write and teach isn’t about himself or puffing up his reach as a pastor with authority, it’s about the community of Christ as brothers and sisters, all saints together.

2) Is there a significance to Paul’s greeting, “grace and peace to you from God our Father”? (verse 2)
Lest we forget, every word of Scripture was written on the breath of the Holy Spirit. He used human writing styles, human words, and human author’s unique stories and experiences, but the words and message are fully the Lord God’s. (2 Timothy 3:16-17) Every word of Scripture is significant, which is why we take such time and energy to study it well. (2 Timothy 2:15) This isn’t simply a Pauline greeting we casually pass back and forth like, “Hey, how are you?” “Good! We are doing great! How are you?” “Good thanks!” This greeting is rooted deep in the anchor of the gospel. Grace. God’s richest gift to mankind demonstrated through the offering of Jesus’ sacrifice for our sin. When we accept this gift of undeserved grace, unable to be earned by our attempt at being good, we have peace with God. Grace and Peace. Because of His grace, we have peace. Peace with God and peace we can extend to others. Paul’s greeting is not an ordinary hello, it’s rooted in the depth of the gospel, because only there in the anchor of lavish grace, do we have hope for relationship, for life, for community, and for peace.

3) Why would Paul include a reference to his prayers for this particular church in his greeting, especially since he hadn’t met them? (verse 3)
Again, nothing preserved in Scripture is accidental or unimportant. All of it holds treasure to reap as we seek to know and understand God better. “We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you.” This single sentence reveals much! It was commonplace for Paul to pray and when he did, it wasn’t a show or religious rite, but a conversation centered around a deeply intimate relationship with God as Father. God wasn’t a foreign entity Paul worked to appease and then occasionally beg Him for something. Prayer allowed a vibrant, continuous relationship to grow between Father God and beloved child. Paul’s prayers, while deep and intimate, were woven through with gratitude. When Paul prayed for the church, gratitude bubbled up for their partnership in the gospel. He was grateful for the opportunity to share the mission with other believers. (verse 4) Whether he personally knew them or not, what mattered most was that these brothers and sisters, fellow saints, were co-laborers for the gospel. Going farther in the letter, Paul has “big rock” items to teach them as he corrects their beliefs, but despite the issues ahead, Paul begins with gratitude for these, his brethren in Christ.

Everyday Application

1) Why does Paul call out that he is an apostle “by God’s will” and notes that Timothy is “our” brother? (verse 1)
Are you involved in a local church body? If so, who are you able to identify as leaders? Are you attaching that label of leader to yourself? If not, you should be. You, sister, have a calling and responsibility as a member of God’s Body, to be actively serving her and partnering with other members to preach Christ! If you’re already serving in the local church, think through who you are willing to link arms with in serving the mission of the church. Do you view someone as “beneath” you? Who do you, perhaps unwittingly, choose not to serve with? Paul’s message is clear, not just in Colossians, but in each of his other letters; the unity of the church is paramount to her accomplishing the mission of God. Pray through how you can leverage your role, regardless of what it is, to strengthen that unity. Partner well, love well, live well in biblical community with fellow brothers and sisters, remembering that it is only because of Christ that we, together, have this mission!

2) Is there a significance to Paul’s greeting, “grace and peace to you from God our Father”? (verse 2)
What if we, like Paul, began looking at each of our interactions as opportunities to share the gospel? Suppose the words we choose to use in our relationships very intentionally pointed towards Christ? What would our social media accounts reflect? Would the tone shift? Might people leave our conversations better encouraged, or maybe seeing the face of God a little more clearly? Challenge yourself to become more cognizant of the questions you ask, the intention behind the asking, and the words you use in your response. Intentionally deciding to bless another with truth can be as simple as “grace and peace”.

3) Why would Paul include a reference to his prayers for this particular church in his greeting, especially since he hadn’t met them? (verse 3)
In just this one sentence, we see such a deep and wide scope of Paul and his prayer life. What about yours mimics this model? Where would you like to see your prayer life grow? Is prayer mostly a “you-talking” experience? Do you use prayer in conjunction with Scripture? How often do you sit, still and silent, before the Lord, just to listen? Keeping a prayer journal is a great way to reflect on the content of your prayers. How often is gratitude woven throughout them? How frequently do you simply enjoy the glory of being in God’s presence and meditating on His character?  Consider too how often you lift other saints before the Lord, and with what attitude you do so. When we position ourselves at the Throne of Grace, the Spirit will naturally move our hearts to intercede for brothers and sisters. Joined to the Father, insistently means joined to the Saints in this beautiful community of Church! What is your prayer for the church? Share it with the GT Community today on Facebook and let’s encourage each other as we pray for one another!

What do YOU think?! Share Here!
Missing the connection to our other Journey Study?
Catch up with Saints, Apostles, & Brothers!

Digging Deeper is for Everyone!

1) Take this passage (or any other passage).
2) Read it, and the verses around it,
several times
3) Write down your questions
as you think of them.
4) Ask specific culture related questions and be ready to dig around for your answers. Google them, use www.studylight.org, or look them up in a study Bible and read the footnotes (click on the little letters next to a word and it will show you
other related verses!). (www.esvbible.org)
5) Check your applications with other trusted Christians that you are in community with and embrace the fullness of God
in your everyday!

Digging Deeper Community

Share What You’ve Learned!
Pray Together!
Join us in the GT Facebook Community!

Our Current Study Theme!

This is Anchored Week One!
Don’t miss out on the discussion!
Sign up to receive every GT Journey Study!

Why Dig Deeper?

Finding the original meaning is a huge deal when we study Scripture and can make all the difference in our understanding as we apply God’s truths to our everyday lives.

In our modern-day relationships, we want people to understand our original intention as we communicate; how much more so between God and humanity?!

Here’s a little bit more on why we take Digging Deeper so seriously.

Study Tools

We love getting help while we study and www.studylight.org is one of many excellent resources, providing the original Hebrew (Old Testament) or Greek (New Testament) with an English translation.

Want to know more about a specific word in a verse? Click on “Strong’s Interlinear Bible” then click the word you’d like to study. Discover “origin”, “definition” and hear the original pronunciation – That Is Awesome!

Want more background? Click “Study Tools”, then pick a few commentaries to read their scholarly approach, keeping in mind that just because a commentary says it, doesn’t mean it’s true. (just like the internet :-))

Memorize It!

Download this week’s verse and make it your phone’s lockscreen!
Tap and hold on your mobile device to save.

Awaken Day 2 A Prayer For Mercy: Digging Deeper

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Digging Deeper Days

Finding the original intent of Scripture and making good application to our everyday lives as we become equipped to correctly handle the Word of Truth!

Yesterday’s Journey Study connects with today’s!
Check out A Prayer For Mercy!

The Questions

1) Who is the writer and what qualifies him to write on this topic?

2) How is one’s affliction related to someone else’s salvation?

3) Verse 5 seems to assert that it is because of Jesus Christ that we have both affliction and comfort. How is this possible?

2 Corinthians 1:3-7

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort. 4 He comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any kind of affliction, through the comfort we ourselves receive from God. 5 For just as the sufferings of Christ overflow to us, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. 6 If we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation. If we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings that we suffer. 7 And our hope for you is firm, because we know that as you share in the sufferings, so you will also share in the comfort.

Original Intent

1) Who is the writer and what qualifies him to write on this topic?
Paul the apostle wrote this letter to the church at Corinth. There were many false teachers attempting to exert influence on the new Christ-followers and lead them astray. Much like things we hear today, the false teachers likely mocked the believers for their faith and said, “If you have been saved by Jesus Christ, why are you going through so many hard times? Your life should be easy!”
The false teachers were smooth-talkers (I’m sure you’ve heard some) who told people what made them feel good. In so doing, they “preach[ed] a different Jesus…a different kind of Spirit…a different kind of gospel.” (2 Corinthians 11:4)
But Paul knew from experience that a life dedicated to Christ does not equal a life of relaxation. Quite the opposite: 2 Corinthians 11:23b-27 is a laundry list of hardships and adversities! From beatings and prison to shipwrecks and hunger, Paul had lived through many sufferings.

2) How is one’s affliction related to someone else’s salvation?
Paul wrote this second letter to the Corinthians partly because he had heard reports of their deplorable behavior. He was distressed to know that these believers were allowing the smooth words of false teachers to tickle their ears and draw them away from pure devotion to Jesus. In this sense, Paul’s distress (affliction) resulted in a letter that brought about their repentance, which brought them closer to the Lord (2 Corinthians 7:11). Paul suffered significantly for the cause of Christ in his lifetime, but it wasn’t without purpose. God used Paul’s sufferings to bring about salvation for many as they heard his preaching and witnessed the power of the Holy Spirit at work in his life.

3) Verse 5 seems to assert that it is because of Jesus Christ that we have both affliction and comfort. How is this possible?
Sisters, do we deceive ourselves to think that we will be accepted by society even as we live out our faith in Jesus? He specifically stated the world would hate us because it hated Him first (John 15:18-19). This is the reason that we have affliction – because we identify with Christ.

But He also sent the Holy Spirit upon His ascension to everyone who genuinely believes and trusts in Him (Acts1:9-11; 2:1-4). The Spirit of God is with us even during our tribulations and hardships, bringing us comfort.

Everyday Application

1) Who is the writer and what qualifies him to write on this topic?
Paul could write about sufferings because he endured many. Every event in each of our lives has the potential to bring glory to God. Even the hard times. Especially the hard times. What have you experienced in your life that only Our Good Father could have brought you through in His mercy? Have you shared it with anyone?

2) How is one’s affliction related to someone else’s salvation?
We have seen the many hardships that Paul endured on his missionary journeys. Imagine if he had given up his calling at the first hint of trouble. Think of how many people would never have heard about Jesus Christ.
Living out the calling placed on our lives by Our Lord is not easy. Not only will we be mocked and ridiculed by people, but the enemy, Satan, will do his best to keep us from fulfilling our purpose. We don’t give up, because the Holy Spirit is with us to sustain us and to comfort us. We can trust that God knows best, lean into Him (especially when suffering) and experience His mercy. Then we share that with others for their salvation…either justification salvation (a one-time experience) or sanctification salvation (a daily transformation into the likeness of Christ).

3) Verse 5 seems to assert that it is because of Jesus Christ that we have both affliction and comfort. How is this possible?
Think for a moment about the sufferings you have endured as a Christian. Now reflect: Did you receive comfort during those times, either from fellow Christians or from the Lord Himself? If you had the choice (which, of course, you do) to suffer for Jesus knowing you’ll be comforted or to live an easy life with no suffering, but also no promise of heaven, which would you choose? My choice is Jesus. A little trouble now in this world…but a glorious life with Him for eternity.

*If you have chosen Jesus for the first time in your life, please contact a pastor to learn what your next step should be or share it with us at Gracefully Truthful!

What do YOU think?! Share Here!
Missing the connection to our other Journey Study?
Catch up with A Prayer For Mercy

Digging Deeper is for Everyone!

1) Take this passage (or any other passage).
2) Read it, and the verses around it,
several times
3) Write down your questions
as you think of them.
4) Ask specific culture related questions and be ready to dig around for your answers. Google them, use www.studylight.org, or look them up in a study Bible and read the footnotes (click on the little letters next to a word and it will show you
other related verses!). (www.esvbible.org)
5) Check your applications with other trusted Christians that you are in community with and embrace the fullness of God
in your everyday!

Digging Deeper Community

Share What You’ve Learned!
Pray Together!
Join us in the GT Facebook Community!

Our Current Study Theme!

This is Awaken Week One!
Don’t miss out on the discussion!
Sign up to receive every GT Journey Study!

Why Dig Deeper?

Finding the original meaning is a huge deal when we study Scripture and can make all the difference in our understanding as we apply God’s truths to our everyday lives.

In our modern-day relationships, we want people to understand our original intention as we communicate; how much more so between God and humanity?!

Here’s a little bit more on why we take Digging Deeper so seriously.

Study Tools

We love getting help while we study and www.studylight.org is one of many excellent resources, providing the original Hebrew (Old Testament) or Greek (New Testament) with an English translation.

Want to know more about a specific word in a verse? Click on “Strong’s Interlinear Bible” then click the word you’d like to study. Discover “origin”, “definition” and hear the original pronunciation – That Is Awesome!

Want more background? Click “Study Tools”, then pick a few commentaries to read their scholarly approach, keeping in mind that just because a commentary says it, doesn’t mean it’s true. (just like the internet :-))

Memorize It!

Download this week’s verse and make it your phone’s lockscreen!
Tap and hold on your mobile device to save.

The GT Weekend! – Worship IV Week 1

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The GT Weekend!

At Gracefully Truthful, weekends aren’t for “checking out”.
Use this time to invite the Almighty’s fullness into you life in a deeper way!
Saturdays and Sundays are a chance to
reflect, rest, and re-center our lives onto Christ.
Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with other women in prayer,
rest your soul in reflective journaling,
and spend time worshiping the Creator who
longs for intimacy with each of us!

Worship Through Journaling

Worship Through Journaling

1) What are your personal experiences with worship? Pause, reflect, and journal through those. What are the circumstances and surroundings where you come into deep worship the easiest? What defines worship in your experience? How much do your feelings play into the “how” of your worship time? Spend the next 2-3 minutes writing out unchanging truths about God’s character, then steal away to a quiet place and spend 7-8 minutes worshipping God for being exactly who He says He is. Grab a candle, a journal, your Bible, or just a willingness to speak openly as you worship even now.  

2) Who or what is the “glue” that holds you together? Who or what do you rely heavily on for stability? Maybe it’s the relational state of your marriage, likes on social media, the cleanliness of your home, or how you perform at the gym. Consider how often you turn to the anchor of Christ to be your center. When you think of where you would like to be in your daily relationship with Jesus, what practical piece is currently missing? Write down 1 easy thing you can begin doing today to make a shift, taking your walk deeper with the Lord. Then connect with a friend and ask her to hold you accountable to regularly taking that step! 

3) When was the last time you worshipped the Lord right in the middle of the mayhem of your everyday mess? What did you praise the Savior for? As Crystal shared yesterday, we are invited in to “sing Israel’s song” as our great Rescuer and Redeemer. Challenge yourself you to take notes, even just for this weekend, writing down the ways the Lord has been gracious, setting His kindness upon you. Maybe it’s a paper journal or a note on your phone, but actively choose worship by taking note of the gifts of the Father!

Praying Scripture back to the One who wrote it in the first place is a great way to jump start our prayer-life! Pray this passage from Colossians 1:19-20 back to the Lord and
let His Spirit speak to you through it!

For God was pleased to have 
all his fullness dwell in Him, 
and through Him to reconcile 
everything to Himself, 
whether things on earth or things in heaven, 
by making peace 
through His blood, shed on the cross.

Prayer Journal
Making peace is something we all long for, Lord; it’s something I long for in my everyday life. My relationships need peace. My children need peace. My hurting friends need peace. My finances need peace. My workplace needs peace.  
 
But, these people and places need much more than I can possibly give or bring. As much as I grieve for the unrest, I know I’m at a loss to give anything but temporary emotional support, and even that isn’t possible in all cases. Lord, teach my heart to find peace in one place, Your shed blood for my redemption. Be my anchor, Jesus, and in that place of security, give me opportunities to extend Your peace to those around me. Remind me, Spirit, to lift my loved ones and my circumstances up to You for your perfect peace to surround. How I love you, Abba! How grateful I am for Your deep love and boundless peace!

Worship Through Community

Can we pray for you? Reach Out! We’d love to pray for and with you!
Send us an email at prayer@gracefullytruthful.com

Build community, be transparent, and encourage others:
Share how God spoke to you today!
Comment Here or in our Facebook Community Group!

Worship Through Prayer

Worship Through Music

Worship IV, Day 2 Even When: Digging Deeper

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Digging Deeper Days

Finding the original intent of Scripture and making good application to our everyday lives as we become equipped to correctly handle the Word of Truth!

Yesterday’s Journey Study connects with today’s!
Check out Even When!

The Questions

1) How are these verses connected? 
 
2) What is this “same love”? (verses 1-4)  
 
3) What is the “same attitude”? (verses 5-11) 
 
4) How can we have the same obedience? (verses 12-13)

Philippians 2:1-13

Adopt the same attitude as that of Christ Jesus,
6 who, existing in the form of God,
did not consider equality with God
as something to be exploited.
7 Instead he emptied himself
by assuming the form of a servant,
taking on the likeness of humanity.
And when he had come as a man,
8 he humbled himself by becoming obedient
to the point of death—
even to death on a cross.
9 For this reason God highly exalted him
and gave him the name
that is above every name,
10 so that at the name of Jesus
every knee will bow—
in heaven and on earth
and under the earth—
11 and every tongue will confess
that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father.

Original Intent

1) How are these verses connected? 
Paul’s letter to the Philippian church was written while he was in prison, chained for preaching Christ. Yet, he continued ‘preaching’ through his letters. The letter is known most commonly for encouragement and Paul’s deep love for the Philippians is woven throughout, but tucked away here in the second chapter, some of the richest theology found in the entire Bible awaits us. Theologians often dig straight into the meaty description of Christ in verses 5-11, His equality with God, and how He humbly emptied Himself in order to redeem humanity. But taking a wider lens view from verses 1-13, we see how these verses come together in one beautiful 3-fold display of Christ’s love and His design for us as His children through the same love, same attitude, and the same obedience.  
 
2) What is this “same love”? (verses 1-4)  
Paul begins this section not with a description of Christ, but of His Body, His Church. It’s as if the Lord is saying, ‘Look at my beautiful Bride! Look how precious and priceless it is to enjoy the love and comfort and encouragement of my Church!’.  This affectionate fellowship, sweet tenderness, kind gentleness, and genuine caring for one another is God’s original design for us as His followers. His Church is intended to be characterized by these qualities because they have first existed eternally in the heart of God as He has existed in triune form of Father, Son, and Spirit. The model for Church was birthed from the community, the same love, that has eternally existed between Father, Son, and Spirit. Each of these precious, life-giving qualities were first lived out continuously and beautifully among the godhead, so it is only natural for these qualities to be intrinsic to the DNA of the global Church Body made up of every believer.  
 
3) What is the “same attitude”? (verses 5-11) 
Just as the Church is to mimic the same love found in God, so also are we to reflect His same attitude, specifically humility in this example. This goes beyond ‘generic humility’ as in letting others go first in line or smiling instead of snapping at them. This humility, modeled by God, is sacrificial at its core. It’s a humility that says, ‘I am God. I have all authority. But I will not allow my right as God to keep me from coming down in love to you.’ This humility carries a cost. For Jesus, it cost Him His throne, His community, and even His relationship with the Father as He bore our sin upon Himself, forcing the Father to turn away and forsake Him. But this humility was worth it. Jesus wasn’t constantly rolling His eyes annoyed at our humanity, frustrated that He was wrapped in flesh, or secretly exasperated at how dreadful it was to be tired, poor, or hungry. He was sacrificially humble as He gave Himself away for our redemption.  
 
4) How can we have the same obedience? (verses 12-13)  
When we come to a place of total surrender to living a sacrificially humble life because we want nothing more than to fully possess the same love and the same attitude of humility, then we are perfectly positioned walk into the same obedience. All of this, from beginning to end, is a work of the Holy Spirit in us as we submit to Him in ever increasing ways. It’s both Him and us, an intricate duo of our humble submission and His miraculous shaping. Paul passionately holds up Christ and His willingness to love and sacrifice for our good and then implores the church to obey Him because He is worth it! Prove your salvation, Paul says, put on display how Jesus is making you continuously new by having the same obedience Christ Himself displayed. Submit yourselves to Him, be disciplined, be sacrificially humble, and love well. In the same token, know that all of your work is only done because the Spirit of the Living God is alive and at work within you! He is making you new! He is bringing about your obedience as you submit to His lead!

Everyday Application

1) How are these verses connected? 
Perhaps you’ve heard the phrase, ‘oneness does not mean same-ness’, encouraging differentiation between people as they work towards a common goal or in a marriage. Sameness in that sense isn’t what Paul is meaning here, rather he is encouraging all believers to follow after the same pattern for living life. As followers of Jesus, the pattern for living isn’t up for discussion or interpretation. As the Master does, so do we as His followers. The disciple is not above the Master. This is exactly what Paul was writing about and its precisely why studying Scripture is so critical for every Christ-follower. The more we study, the clearer our model becomes.  
 
2) What is this “same love”? (verses 1-4)  
This letter was written to the churches in Philippi and was likely circulated to other surrounding churches as well, but its timeless teachings are for all believers everywhere. When you think of your local church, how are you personally contributing to the overall characteristics described here? Keep in mind the all-inclusive language Paul uses like “everyone” looking out for others and “nothing” done in selfishness or vanity. As you pray through these verses, lean in to how the Spirit is leading you. Are there people you avoid or are more likely to gossip about? How do those actions reflect God’s heart? God’s design for His Church, for us as believers, is to have the same love that God shares among the triune godhead. We as a community are intended to beautifully reflect Himself! 
 
3) What is the “same attitude”? (verses 5-11) 
If I’m being honest (which is kind of a core value of Gracefully Truthful…), then I am much more likely to associate with eye-rolling-annoyed-exasperated ‘generic humility’ than I am likely to see a consistent pattern of sacrificial humility in my everyday life. I have my things to do, my standards by which to do them, this amount of time allotted, and even a casual interruption of that mindset will test my patience, much less my humility. Jesus isn’t calling us to be doormats, quite opposite! He’s calling us to firmly hold on to who we are as redeemed daughters of the King, but not to allow our knowledge of Him or our relationship status to keep us from engaging well by loving others with His same attitude of humility. Love well, Sisters. Practice sacrificial humility as you remember to keep the same attitude of our Lord.   
 
4) How can we have the same obedience? (verses 12-13) 
Doesn’t examining the model of Christ’s love and extreme humility and extravagant sacrifice encourage and embolden your desire to become more like Him? Believing Friend, obey Him! His Spirit is ready to lead and speak to you, taking you deeper as you submit to following Him. Don’t worry about the process or the how or the end result, that’s the work of the Lord, your job is to listen and obey! And to my friends who haven’t crossed the line of faith and asked Jesus to rescue them for eternity from their sin, the call is the same, obey Him! Come, explore, roam free in His unfathomably deep love for you. He has much for you, much to do in you, it all starts with a willingness to surrender and listen to His voice as He’s asking you to trust Him. Obey that voice, it’s worth it! Don’t worry about the process or the how or the end result, just listen and obey!

What do YOU think?! Share Here!
Missing the connection to our other Journey Study?
Catch up with Even When!

Digging Deeper is for Everyone!

1) Take this passage (or any other passage).
2) Read it, and the verses around it,
several times
3) Write down your questions
as you think of them.
4) Ask specific culture related questions and be ready to dig around for your answers. Google them, use www.studylight.org, or look them up in a study Bible and read the footnotes (click on the little letters next to a word and it will show you
other related verses!). (www.esvbible.org)
5) Check your applications with other trusted Christians that you are in community with and embrace the fullness of God
in your everyday!

Digging Deeper Community

Share What You’ve Learned!
Pray Together!
Join us in the GT Facebook Community!

Our Current Study Theme!

This is Worship IV Week One!
Don’t miss out on the discussion!
Sign up to receive every GT Journey Study!

Why Dig Deeper?

Finding the original meaning is a huge deal when we study Scripture and can make all the difference in our understanding as we apply God’s truths to our everyday lives.

In our modern-day relationships, we want people to understand our original intention as we communicate; how much more so between God and humanity?!

Here’s a little bit more on why we take Digging Deeper so seriously.

Study Tools

We love getting help while we study and www.studylight.org is one of many excellent resources, providing the original Hebrew (Old Testament) or Greek (New Testament) with an English translation.

Want to know more about a specific word in a verse? Click on “Strong’s Interlinear Bible” then click the word you’d like to study. Discover “origin”, “definition” and hear the original pronunciation – That Is Awesome!

Want more background? Click “Study Tools”, then pick a few commentaries to read their scholarly approach, keeping in mind that just because a commentary says it, doesn’t mean it’s true. (just like the internet :-))

Memorize It!

Download this week’s verse and make it your phone’s lockscreen!
Tap and hold on your mobile device to save.

Incorruptible Day 14 Sweet Sufferings: Digging Deeper

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Digging Deeper Days

Finding the original intent of Scripture and making good application to our everyday lives as we become equipped to correctly handle the Word of Truth!

Yesterday’s Journey Study connects with today’s!
Check out Sweet Sufferings!

The Questions

1) Am I not living for Christ if I don’t undergo a fiery trial? 

2) Am I supposed to celebrate a trial or suffering?

3) In reading 4:19, does God will us to suffer?

1 Peter 4:12-19

12 Dear friends, don’t be surprised when the fiery ordeal comes among you to test you as if something unusual were happening to you.
 13 Instead, rejoice as you share in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may also rejoice with great joy when his glory is revealed.
 14 If you are ridiculed for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.
 15 Let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or a meddler.
 16 But if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed but let him glorify God in having that name.
 17 For the time has come for judgment to begin with God ‘s household, and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who disobey the gospel of God?
 18 And if a righteous person is saved with difficulty, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?
19 So then, let those who suffer according to God’s will entrust themselves to a faithful Creator while doing what is good.

Original Intent

1) Am I not living for Christ if I don’t undergo a fiery trial?
The apostle Peter is writing to the body of Christ who is quite literally under fire and have, therefore, been exiled and scattered. The great city of Rome has burned down, people are displaced from their homes and livelihoods, separated from their communities, and in survival mode trying stay alive and care for their families while mourning lives of lost loved ones. 
By a false testimony, this devastation was blamed on the Christians. It is common understanding that the leader, Nero, himself burned the city and needed a scapegoat. The apostle Peter is writing to people whose devotion to follow Christ is the reason they are fearing for their lives and fleeing their communities. 
But persecution is wide spread and running away is not a simple answer. As Peter encourages these people to stand strong in Christ, he sprinkles reminders of those who have suffered before them for the Gospel of Christ and for striving to live righteously like prophets of the Old Testament (1:10), but primarily Christ himself, who lived perfectly and fulfilled prophecies, yet died a persecuted death to take on our judgement. 

2) Am I supposed to celebrate a trial or suffering?
On reading 1 Peter 4:13, one may find it an odd command to “rejoice as you share in the sufferings of Christ.” Even the strongest of Christians might honestly feel they were lying to themselves and others if they said they were celebrating at the same time they were hurting. 
It’s important to remember this verse is wrapped in the middle of a longer dialogue. It’s contrasting the statement to not be surprised by suffering for following Christ. Verse 14 brings clarity to what the rejoicing is regarding, “because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.” 
Though the persecuted church is innocently enduring unfathomable pains, there is something greater to celebrate.  If they are, “insulted for the name of Christ,” they are suffering for His honor. 
This is a fruit-bearing process for believers who have been cleansed from unrighteousness, and have been spared a greater judgment by God. They have been raised from their spiritual dead state to being alive in Christ and given an eternal, incorruptible inheritance. The joy of this undeserved grace is a gift worthy of rejoicing!
Peter isn’t saying to celebrate hardship. Rather, joy is available because of our rich inheritance in Christ. Much like the timeless example of a laboring mother rejoicing in the coming of her baby. 

3) In reading 4:19, does God will us to suffer?
For qualified and extensive explanations on “God’s will,” sources as Reverend John Piper’s Desiring God website are recommended. However, in reading these verses, this may be a fair question to wrestle. This phrase could be taken to mean those who are suffering because they are doing God’s will or that they are suffering according to what God has allowed or “willed”. Either way, Peter is pointing them to lean into the Lord. Peter is reminding the persecuted church that God is faithful and trustworthy. God is Creator and this points to His sovereignty. The Matthew Henry Commentary notes the overarching purpose of this verse is to encourage the church to “look chiefly to the safety of their souls… which cannot be kept secure otherwise than by committing them to God.”

Everyday Application

1) Am I not living for Christ if I don’t undergo a fiery trial?
Have you ever felt like the only way you could live for Christ is if He calls you to a dramatic life change of service? Sometimes God does call His people to these things. Peter reminds believers that even Christ was persecuted while being righteous (1 Peter 2:19-21). Our fundamental call is to strive for righteous living in the quiet times and in the difficult struggles, wherever we are in life.
In chapters 2-5 Peter keeps circling back to how to live:
–“put away all malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander” (2:1);
–“abstain from passions of the flesh” (2:11);
–“keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable” (2:12);
–instructing husbands and wives to honor each other (Chapter 3);
–“be self-controlled and sober minded” (4:7);
–“show hospitality without grumbling” (4:9); 
–humble yourselves before others and God (5:5-6). 
When we, in God’s strength, live out these instructions (especially in times of difficulty), we are living out a testimony for Christ. In the daily pantry-type decisions (as noted in the Journey Study) to honor God instead of escaping discomfort, thus “adorning the doctrine of God our Savior” (Titus 2:10; Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth notes this application in her book, Adorned). Our focus is not the trial, but rather upholding Christ in every action. 

2) Am I supposed to celebrate a trial or suffering?
Have you ever followed through on a decision that aligned with Scripture, yet things didn’t go smoothly? 
A breadwinner learns their employer is participating in something against Scripture and decides to look for a different job. Someone who reaches out and loves on the outcast of the group, facing their own isolation. A person who offers to pray for a co-worker is fired for making others uncomfortable. 
Striving to honor Christ leads to trial and suffering. Trials and suffering may take on different forms, but 1 Peter is specifically referring to one who is suffering despite the fact that they are doing good. The sadness or difficulty of a situation is not to be down-played or dismissed. 
But, despite the type of suffering, be encouraged and strengthened as a Christian to look beyond the physical trial and re-connect with the joy of a greater news. Christ is risen and His people will one day share in Christ’s incorruptible glory!  Sufferings do not have power to take that hope away from us! 

3) In reading 4:19, does God will us to suffer?
When reflecting on those before us who have endured persecution for their faith in Christ (not due to evil deeds), it is common to pause in fear.
“I don’t think I could do that… is my faith strong enough to go through that pain?”
Or, perhaps, wrestle with believing God is good in allowing or “willing” such things to occur. It can be both perplexing and comforting to recall that God had a hedge of protection around Job in the Old Testament and Satan had to ask permission from God to bring calamity to Job’s family (Job 1:6-12) 
A few things to remember when wrestling questions about the suffering God as allowed into your life:
1.1 Peter 1:7 gives an example of purpose for trials, “so that the tested genuineness of your faith- more precious than gold that perishes… may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.”
In this view, the cost is worth it! 
2. God works all things together for the good for those who love Him (Romans 8:28). While we humans are concerned with the now and physical of a trial, God is concerned with the eternal preservation of souls and purification of His people (Philippians 1:6, Zechariah 13:9) 
If God, in His sovereignty were to “will” suffering and trials, He would only do so for a purpose of eternal value in His Bride, the Church, and that His Name would be made known that all may know that He alone is God. We see with cloudy vision, but He sees perfectly. What we can confidently know is that this God is entirely trustworthy!

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Digging Deeper is for Everyone!

1) Take this passage (or any other passage).
2) Read it, and the verses around it,
several times
3) Write down your questions
as you think of them.
4) Ask specific culture related questions and be ready to dig around for your answers. Google them, use www.studylight.org, or look them up in a study Bible and read the footnotes (click on the little letters next to a word and it will show you
other related verses!). (www.esvbible.org)
5) Check your applications with other trusted Christians that you are in community with and embrace the fullness of God
in your everyday!

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Why Dig Deeper?

Finding the original meaning is a huge deal when we study Scripture and can make all the difference in our understanding as we apply God’s truths to our everyday lives.

In our modern-day relationships, we want people to understand our original intention as we communicate; how much more so between God and humanity?!

Here’s a little bit more on why we take Digging Deeper so seriously.

Study Tools

We love getting help while we study and www.studylight.org is one of many excellent resources, providing the original Hebrew (Old Testament) or Greek (New Testament) with an English translation.

Want to know more about a specific word in a verse? Click on “Strong’s Interlinear Bible” then click the word you’d like to study. Discover “origin”, “definition” and hear the original pronunciation – That Is Awesome!

Want more background? Click “Study Tools”, then pick a few commentaries to read their scholarly approach, keeping in mind that just because a commentary says it, doesn’t mean it’s true. (just like the internet :-))

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