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Joy

Surrender Day 5 The God Who Holds Us

January 27, 2023 by Rebekah Hargraves Leave a Comment

Surrender Day 5 The God Who Holds Us

Rebekah Hargraves

January 27, 2023

Broken,Comfort,Freedom,Joy

Read His Words Before Ours!

Genesis 12:1-4
Genesis 15:1-6
1 Samuel 1:1-11
1 Samuel 1:17-20
Matthew 26:36-46

I’ll never forget how hard I fought to persuade my then-boyfriend, now-husband, against entering the military. In the months following our high school graduation, he was in planning, prayer, and dreaming mode. He wanted to join the military and felt a clear call from God, while I was convinced he had heard wrong. Surely he wanted to go into medicine? Maybe teaching? Something with kids? After all, he loves kids!

Despite all my planning and scheming and praying and trying and striving, he entered the military on June 30, 2012. And I was not happy. 

Since then, we have endured separations and trials of different lengths, ranging from an overnight trip to a 7-month-long deployment. Through all the ups and downs, I have come to clearly see that the Lord did, in fact, lead my guy to enter the military, and our family has benefited as a result. 

One of the biggest ways we have benefited? 
Our faith has been built as we have learned to rely not on ourselves, but on the God Who holds us in the palm of His hand.

I feel quite at home with Bible characters such as Abraham and Hannah. Abraham was told to leave his family, his town, his comfort zone, and everything he’d ever known to journey to an unknown land. (Genesis 12:1-4) His God promised to bless and multiply him, but that didn’t make the road effortless or easy. Doubt crept in sometimes, homesickness was a thing, and Abraham was left wondering exactly just how long it would take for some of God’s promises, like the promise of a son of his own, to come to pass. (Genesis 15:1-6)

Hannah’s experience was similar. (1 Samuel 1:1-11) She also yearned for a son, but month after month and year after year, she remained barren. Would her dream ever come true? Would she ever become a mother, or would that hole in her heart remain void?

Likely, each of us have asked similar questions. 
Will things go as we want? 
Or will we be required to leave our comfort zones, surrender control, and trust the Lord with the results and outcomes?

When, like Abraham, our futures are unknown . . . 
When, like Hannah, our souls are overwhelmed with anguish . . .  
…will we surrender control to the God Whose plans are best for He sees the end from the beginning?

“I declare the end from the beginning,
and from long ago what is not yet done,
saying: my plan will take place,
and I will do all my will [. . .]
Yes, I have spoken; so I will also bring it about.” (Isaiah 46:10-11)

Again and again, the Lord specifically proved Himself to be Sustainer, Supplier, and Satisfier for Hannah and Abraham. He sent them down roads that would build their faith, He inspired them to rely on Him alone, and He worked in their hearts while providing for their weary souls as they surrendered their idolized control.

And the sweet, tender part of all this? 
He will do the same for us. 

As we place one step in front of the other, as we surrender control, we will experience, and therefore trust, the goodness of the Lord more fully. As we willingly surrender our “control” to Him, we see Him show up in unexpected ways. We watch Him work miracles. We witness the fulfillment of His promise that He has overcome the world, even as we face tribulations and trials.

“I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. You will have suffering in this world. Be courageous! I have conquered the world.” (John 16:33)

Jesus came so we might have abundant life, and there is abundant life to be found on the other side of struggle, yes, even in the midst of, these trials that send us reeling. 

“I have come so that [you] may have life, and have it in abundance. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for his sheep.” (John 10:10-11)

Our Good Shepherd Himself surrendered control of His own life to the Father, even knowing it would bring about His death. (Matthew 26:36-39) His death would be the payment for our sins, and in His resurrection, He would restore us to Himself. 

Therefore, Scripture tells us, “[f]or the joy that lay before him, he endured the cross” (Hebrews 12:2), knowing that surrender would bring abundant, eternal life for us, His beloved ones. (Jude 1:2, ESV)

Even when we can’t see where the journey will take us.
Even when it seems the waiting and longing will never end.
Even when the road ahead holds suffering.
Even then…
t
ake it from a grateful military wife, surrendering control is worth it!

Tags :
Happy,pain,struggle,surrender
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Digging Deeper

These faithful saints all continued to live by faith, believing God would fulfill His promises to them. I can only imagine how often Abraham and Sarah revisited the promise God made to them in the decades of time between “promise given” and “promise fulfilled”. (Genesis 17:10-14) In fact, the writer of Hebrews, inspired by God (2 Timothy 3:16), gives a vivid description by saying these saints “saw them from a distance and greeted them.” They saw and greeted the promises they had received from a trustworthy God!!
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Posted in: Broken, Comfort, Freedom, Joy Tagged: Happy, pain, struggle, surrender

Pause VI Day 15 Greet With Grace

January 20, 2023 by Melodye Reeves Leave a Comment

Pause VI Day 15 Greet With Grace

Melodye Reeves

January 20, 2023

Accepted,Gospel,Grace,Journey,Joy

Read His Words Before Ours!

Philippians 4:21-23

21 Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me send you greetings. 22 All the saints send you greetings, especially those who belong to Caesar’s household. 23 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

Read More Of His Words

Greet every saint in Christ Jesus … all the saints send you greetings! (Philippians 4:21-22)

Paul’s gospel is all-inclusive! Don’t you love that, sister? I just cannot ignore the intentionality of his mentions.

Emily Post was famous for writing about etiquette. She influenced the nation for years regarding what is proper, especially in writing. The apostle Paul was teaching us long before anyone knew of Emily Post. His letters included all the things that “the best letters” should. Under the influence of the Spirit: 1) Paul mixed the good with bad news, 2) he responded to questions asked or news shared in a previous letter, and 3) he always considered the recipients. (emilypost.com)

Post reminded her audience that good letter-writing included a positive salutation (greeting) and an encouraging closing (goodbye) in which the reader could relate. Paul did just that.

I heard someone say the gospel is not exclusive, but it is specific. And Paul was a master at making sure the reader understood this truth. I don’t know anyone who can preach a more concise gospel sermon in a simple greeting or goodbye. Paul is the GOAT for sure, and writing a good letter wasn’t even his goal!

Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, to all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, including the overseers and deacons. Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. (Philippians 1:1-2)

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. (Philippians 4:23)

When I read the letter to the Philippians it brings me such comfort. Even now, thousands of years after he wrote it and his original audience read it, Paul’s writing is relevant to us. Why? Because the grace of God is timeless, and it’s inclusive.

Sister, as believers, we are included in this marvelous grace of the Lord Jesus.

Grace and peace were offered to the Philippians. Grace and peace are offered to me. Grace and peace are offered to you.

Pause.
Receive this greeting into your souls this very day.

Today's Pause Challenge

1) Read Philippians 4:21-23 out loud twice. Explore deeper by studying some cross-references of the authenticity of Scripture. (Here are some references regarding the reliability of the letters of the apostles: 1 Corinthians 14:35, 1 Thessalonians 2:13, Romans 16:25-26, 2 Timothy 3:16, 2 Peter 1:20-21, 2 Peter 3:15-16)

2) Here is our last hand-crafted Spotify playlist for Pause VI!
Put this playlist on repeat this weekend and be reminded of the rich truths God has shown you this week in Pause VI! Rehearse the goodness and grace of God. Let your worship be an act of joy and thankfulness before your God!

3)
Memorize Philippians 4:4-5

Tags :
gospel,grace,inclusive,Truth,welcome
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The GT Weekend! ~ Surrender Week 2
February 4, 2023
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Pause VI
Day 14

Do you ever wonder why so many people suffer from lack of food, clothing, or money? In light of this passage, it’s especially difficult to believe God always provides when it appears to us that believers may not have everything they need.

“And my God will supply all your needs …”

Sweet friend, ponder this: perhaps it is because our greatest needs are not material.
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Jan 2 - Jan 20, 2023 - Journey Theme #112

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Authentically living out a life of worship to the God who rescued us from darkness requires accountability and intentionality. Join a GT POD and take the next step in your faith journey!

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Posted in: Accepted, Gospel, Grace, Journey, Joy Tagged: gospel, grace, inclusive, Truth, welcome

Pause VI Day 13 Surprising Secret

January 18, 2023 by Melodye Reeves Leave a Comment

Pause VI Day 13 Surprising Secret

Melodye Reeves

January 18, 2023

Adoration,Gospel,Identity,Joy,Kingdom,Longing

Read His Words Before Ours!

Philippians 4:10-14

10 I rejoiced in the Lord greatly because once again you renewed your care for me. You were, in fact, concerned about me but lacked the opportunity to show it. 11 I don’t say this out of need, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I find myself. 12 I know how to make do with little, and I know how to make do with a lot. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being content—whether well fed or hungry, whether in abundance or in need. 13 I am able to do all things through him who strengthens me. 14 Still, you did well by partnering with me in my hardship.

Read More Of His Words

Heard any of these expressions?

I’ve got a secret.
This is our little secret.
Do you want to know a secret?
The secret leaked out.

Or now at my age, I’ve asked this one when I observe ageless beauty, graceful grandparenting, or meaningful marriages:
What’s your secret?

Paul had a secret.
But it was a different kind of secret. It was a “sacred secret” that wasn’t to be kept from public knowledge. It was his explanation regarding his previous instruction to the people in Philippi. He had stated and repeated:
Rejoice … always.

“In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being content.” (verse 12)

 Reflect for a moment on Paul’s location as he wrote this letter. From other verses in Philippians, we know he was in prison under house-arrest. Still, multiple times in his letter he has made a case for consistent, joyful living. Maybe he anticipated the Philippian believers feeling sorry or sad for him, and he wanted to assure them he had everything he needed. Because for Paul, knowing Christ was his single need.

Sisters, let’s take time to reflect on our own contentment. Do we miss much of the joy in our lives because we are wishing for something else we think someone else has? Maybe we have concluded that others have discovered the secret we’ve been trying to uncover. Is it possible we’ve lost sight of what we received when we gained Christ?

Paul had come to understand the essential, but often missing, element of knowing Christ. Though he had come to realize that the grace of Jesus equipped Him for every task (2 Corinthians 12:9), he had learned the secret sauce was the joy found in contentment. We can do it too, my friend! We can do all things through Jesus!

Today's Pause Challenge

1) Be a scribe and copy the precious words of Scripture down word for word. Make space in your journal to write down every word of Philippians 4:10-14 today. As you copy, lookup a cross reference or two as you come to them (they are the small letters next to certain words in your study Bible or online at www.biblia.com). As you write, consider the joy of Jesus! (Hebrews 12:2) He knew what was ahead of Him would be agonizing. He also knew the joy of obedience far outweighed the temporary suffering He would experience. Certainly, Paul considered Jesus as he meditated on the secret of his joy!

2) Choose one of these options to live boldly with authentic honesty in biblical community. As we grow deeper in God’s Word, the Lord designed us to share and grow with others walking alongside us.         

a) Take a photo of your journal time this week and share it, or share a quote from it.

b) Do a Facebook Live on the GT Community group and share how God has been working in you.   

c) Leave a comment here about it.

d) Share something God has been showing you in a comment at the GT Community Group 

e) Plan a coffee or lunch date with a friend and share what you’ve been learning and soaking in as you have hit Pause.

f) Write a note of encouragement to a sister who has been through the nitty-gritty of real life with you. Let her know how deeply she has impacted your walk with Christ.

g) For some of us, having a “2am friend” to build biblical community with is a new concept. If that’s you, this is an exciting, fresh place to be! Connect with our Facebook Community, send us an email, reach out to your local church body, seek out a small group and plug in! 

3) Continuing to work on memorizing Philippians 4:4-5

Tags :
Christ,gospel,need,source
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The GT Weekend! ~ Surrender Week 2
February 4, 2023
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Pause VI
Day 12

One day on a hillside near the Sea of Galilee, Jesus began teaching a group of people. What became known as The Beatitudes sums up Jesus’ teachings on earth. In essence, blessed are you if you need Me for you shall have Me. The reward and joy of the believer is Jesus! In the world as we know it, prosperity means bigger and better. It means accumulating more stuff.
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Prayer is central to our ministry as believers in Jesus as we carry eachother’s burdens and intercede for one another. Our team is honored to share the work of praying alongside you!

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This Week's Lock Screen
Explore This Journey Theme!
Jan 2 - Jan 20, 2023 - Journey Theme #112

Join a GT POD!

Authentically living out a life of worship to the God who rescued us from darkness requires accountability and intentionality. Join a GT POD and take the next step in your faith journey!

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Posted in: Adoration, Gospel, Identity, Joy, Kingdom, Longing Tagged: Christ, gospel, need, source

Pause VI Day 12 In Real Life

January 17, 2023 by Melodye Reeves Leave a Comment

Pause VI Day 12 In Real Life

Melodye Reeves

January 17, 2023

Blessed,Freedom,Future,Joy

Read His Words Before Ours!

Philippians 4:4-9

4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5  Let your graciousness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. 6 Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
8 Finally brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable—if there is any moral excellence and if there is anything praiseworthy—dwell on these things.
9 Do what you have learned and received and heard from me, and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you.

Read More Of His Words

One day on a hillside near the Sea of Galilee, Jesus began teaching a group of people. What became known as The Beatitudes sums up Jesus’ teachings on earth. In essence, blessed are you if you need Me for you shall have Me. The reward and joy of the believer is Jesus! In the world as we know it, prosperity means bigger and better. It means accumulating more stuff.

But the gospel meaning of prosperity is different! Paul had more than wishful thinking for the Philippians. He had an assured hope, produced by longing, for them to discover the abundant life of knowing Jesus. Life with Jesus had become real to him, and his desire was for them to know the reality of life with Christ.

Paul’s genuine concern is seen in his many letters as he calls for gospel unity. In the previous verses, he specifically mentions a disagreement that had occurred in the church at Philippi. (Philippians 4:2-3) Real life happens, doesn’t it? But, Sister, disagreements don’t need to squash our joy. With the help of mature friends and the work of Jesus, we can restore relationships and renew our joy. We can discover and display the gift of grace and graciousness. (Philippians 4:5)

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4)

Always?! Who likes commands such as “always” or “never”? Usually not me. Unless it’s a reference to always experiencing my favorite thing and never experiencing a hard thing, these words feel so perpetually binding. What kind of joy is this anyway?! It’s essential that we realize that this kind of joy is a gift from God. It comes when we experience the delight of heaven in the real world of now.

The root word for “joy” in Greek is chara, closely related with charis for “grace.” Joy is both a gift of God and a response to God. Joy comes when we experience and relish the gift of grace through Jesus. Just like Paul, all believers live in an alternate reality once they’ve tasted the goodness of God. (Psalm 34:8) Joy is not seen only when circumstances appear favorable (i.e., a plastic smile), but it is sensed deep-down in the soul of a believer. “It is a well-being that abides in the heart of the person who knows all is well between himself and the Lord.” (preceptaustin.org)

So know this, dear Sisters: A life of joy is not only attainable, it’s sustainable through the Spirit of Christ. What do we get from our salvation? We get Jesus! What kind of joy does He give? The kind that sings about the goodness of God in the midst of real-life suffering and pain. (Acts 16:24-25)
This. Is. Our. Life.
… in Jesus.
Pause and dwell on these things, sweet Friend.

Today's Pause Challenge

1) Pull out your Bible and read Philippians 4:4-9 fully through 2 times. Go slow. Emphasize different words each time you read it. Savor the message and pray as you read. Write out the verses in your journal.

2) Each time you read it, write down everything that pops out at you, making special note of the word “peace.” When you’re finished, go back through and you’ll be amazed at the new things the Spirit is leading you into knowing about Him!

3) Pay special attention to the fact that these verses are written as commands from Paul. Note each instruction Paul gives. Consider how obedience in these areas is connected to knowing Jesus. Pray over how these can be more integrated into your life.

4) Memorize Philippians 4:4-5

Tags :
family,hope,possession,rejoice
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Recent Journeys

The GT Weekend! ~ Surrender Week 2
February 4, 2023
Surrender Day 10 True Joy: Digging Deeper
February 3, 2023
Surrender Day 10 True Joy
February 3, 2023

Pause VI
Day 11

Paul must have often preached to his own soul through his letters to the gathered believers in the churches he had planted. In Philippians 4:6, Paul tells the Philippians not to be anxious, but I sense his own anxious heart toward his friends. With tears, Paul prayed and pleaded for the believers not to be swayed by enemies of the gospel, those who would disrupt their fellowship or turn them from the truth about Jesus. (Philippians 3:18)

“… my dearly loved and longed for brothers and sisters, my joy and crown, in this manner stand firm in the Lord, dear friends.” (Philippians 4:1)
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Prayer is central to our ministry as believers in Jesus as we carry eachother’s burdens and intercede for one another. Our team is honored to share the work of praying alongside you!

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This Week's Lock Screen
Explore This Journey Theme!
Jan 2 - Jan 20, 2023 - Journey Theme #112

Join a GT POD!

Authentically living out a life of worship to the God who rescued us from darkness requires accountability and intentionality. Join a GT POD and take the next step in your faith journey!

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Posted in: Blessed, Freedom, Future, Joy Tagged: family, hope, possession, rejoice

Pause VI Day 9 Walk Wisely

January 12, 2023 by Melodye Reeves Leave a Comment

Pause VI Day 9 Walk Wisely

Melodye Reeves

January 12, 2023

Faith,Follow,Hope,Joy

Read His Words Before Ours!

Philippians 3:1-6

1 In addition, my brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord.
To write to you again about this is no trouble for me and is a safeguard for you.

2 Watch out for the dogs, watch out for the evil workers, watch out for those who mutilate the flesh. 3 For we are the circumcision, the ones who worship by the Spirit of God, boast in Christ Jesus, and do not put confidence in the flesh— 4 although I have reasons for confidence in the flesh. If anyone else thinks he has grounds for confidence in the flesh, I have more: 5 circumcised the eighth day; of the nation of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew born of Hebrews; regarding the law, a Pharisee; 6 regarding zeal, persecuting the church; regarding the righteousness that is in the law, blameless.

Read More Of His Words

“In addition, my brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord.” (Philippians 3:1)

Although Paul is only in the middle of his letter, he begins this section with a transitional phrase that reads like he’s about to conclude. It’s like a PS before he’s even finished, but if you’ve ever read a letter from Paul, you know this is typical for him. (If that’s you too, you’re in good company!)

We don’t know if Paul is referring to his repetitive theme of joy or if he’s about to repeat a previous warning, but we know he feels it’s important to say again what he’s already said to them. He passionately desired to see them walking wisely in faith.

“To write to you again about this is no trouble for me and is a safeguard for you.” (Philippians 3:1)

As observed earlier in this letter, Paul pointed out that a sign of immaturity in the Christian is consistent grumbling and complaining. The mark of maturity is joyful obedience. A believer should be continually finding ways to rejoice in their unearned and undeserved salvation.

Paul exhorts (biblically, that’s earnest advice) the reader to be aware of anyone who would lead them to add anything to their salvation. As if anyone could add anything! Paul certainly never preached grace for his own benefit! He was persecuted harshly precisely because he preached the truth that we can only be rescued from our death sentence earned by our sin if we solely trust in Christ alone through faith alone, without a drop of our own work. (Ephesians 2:8-9) He was demoted from respected teacher of the Law to imprisoned apostle. All for one reason: Jesus crucified! He had reminded them that everything else was useless for salvation. It was all Christ.

Sisters, read through the list of Paul’s reasons to boast in today’s focus passage. Take note of Paul’s continual theme. If the song had been available in his day, I think Paul would have told the believers in Philippi to turn to a certain page in their hymn books and begin singing:
“I will not boast in anything – no gifts, no power, no wisdom.
But I will boast in Jesus Christ – His death and resurrection.
Why should I gain from His reward? I cannot give an answer.
But this I know with all my heart: His wounds have paid my ransom.”
(Stuart Townend, “How Deep The Father’s Love)

Today's Pause Challenge

1) Be a scribe and copy the precious words of Scripture down word for word. Make space in your journal to write out Philippians 3:1-6 . As you copy, lookup a cross reference or two as you come to them (they are the small letters next to certain words in your study Bible or online at www.biblia.com). As you write, think of the incredible gift it is to be invited into God’s presence through His word!

2) Choose one of these options to radiate Jesus’ love to others as you hold tightly to the anchoring truth of the eternal confidence we have only through Christ!

a) Pitch in to do something above and beyond - serve the body of Christ in some way.

b) Consider sending your church leader(s) an email or card!

c) Check out some local ministries in your area and make plans to serve with them for an afternoon. Maybe it’s organizing school donations, serving soup, or stuffing backpacks for kids. Even better, get some friends to join you!

d) Prayer walking is a simple way to begin shifting the eyes of your heart to truly see others. Walk around your neighborhood, some city streets, the aisles of your grocery store, or intentionally sit at a local coffee shop and pray, pray, pray. Pray for the people around you, pray for hearts to turn towards Jesus, pray for your own heart to be ready to share the full gospel if given the chance. Don’t worry about seeing results, that’s God’s job!

e) Strike up a conversation with a random stranger. It may move to spiritual topics, it may not, but showing love to those outside our immediate circles always begins with a simple conversation. “What have you been doing today?” “Do you live nearby?” “Where do you go to church?” “What are your favorite local restaurants?” “What a cute handbag! Where did you get it?” These open-ended questions work well!

3) Share the exciting, bold ways you are living out your eternal confidence today with the rest of the GT Community! Our Facebook community page is always open! Or snap a photo and tag us on Instagram @gracefully_truthful

4) Continue your memory work: Philippians 3:13-14

Tags :
faith,joy,obedience,suffering
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Recent Journeys

The GT Weekend! ~ Surrender Week 2
February 4, 2023
Surrender Day 10 True Joy: Digging Deeper
February 3, 2023
Surrender Day 10 True Joy
February 3, 2023

Pause VI
Day 8!

What a joy for Paul to not only encourage them to be like Jesus, but to also send them two people who will show them how! Don’t you love these guys he’s sending? I can only imagine Paul’s selfless longing for the believers at Philippi to be strengthened by Timothy and Epaphroditus. I can see why Paul prayed what he did in Philippians 1:9-11.
Join The Journey!

Can We Pray With You?

Prayer is central to our ministry as believers in Jesus as we carry eachother’s burdens and intercede for one another. Our team is honored to share the work of praying alongside you!

  • prayer@gracefullytruthful.com
This Week's Lock Screen
Explore This Journey Theme!
Jan 2 - Jan 20, 2023 - Journey Theme #112

Join a GT POD!

Authentically living out a life of worship to the God who rescued us from darkness requires accountability and intentionality. Join a GT POD and take the next step in your faith journey!

  • gtpods@gracefullytruthful.com
Join the GT Facebook Community!
Free Registration!
Share Your Story!
Posted in: Faith, Follow, Hope, Joy Tagged: faith, joy, obedience, suffering

Pause VI Day 5 Family Life

January 6, 2023 by Melodye Reeves Leave a Comment

Pause VI Day 5 Family Life

Melodye Reeves

January 6, 2023

Comfort,Family,Joy,Love

Read His Words Before Ours!

Philippians 2:1-4

1 If, then, there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any affection and mercy,  2 make my joy complete by thinking the same way, having the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. 3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility consider others as more important than yourselves. 4 Everyone should look not to his own interests, but rather to the interests of others.

Read More Of His Words

In addition to walking through suffering with a joyful, hopeful attitude, the Philippians needed to walk as a family in unity and steadfastness.

Have you heard someone say, “If you care about me at all, then …”? This way of requesting something assumes there is already affection in place. What we are really saying is “since you care about me, you’ll at least do this.”
Paul presumed the Philippians had a desire to care well for each other. Based on his belief about them, he introduces four aspects of family life to motivate their affection toward one another.

“If, then, there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any affection and mercy…” (Philippians 2:1)

Since these are facets of salvation, it is through valuing them in our everyday lives that we will naturally be drawn to live in unity with fellow believers and love them in Christ. When we fully recognize how much Christ has done for us and understand the depth of His love, our pride and selfishness shrink away. Those who bask in the love of Christ aren’t consumed with position or recognition. We are willing to take a humble place and serve others, motivated by God’s love and grace. (1 Peter 4:8-10)

Learning to be others-focused, not self-focused, is a long, growing process as we surrender to the Spirit’s work in us as we study truth from Scripture. When we are communally intent on one purpose, we move ahead as partners and teammates toward a goal. If we’re choosing to put others first, we won’t have space to be proud or seek power. It’s hard to be self-important when we’re genuinely considering others as more important.

Do you remember the beginning of Paul’s letter?
He expressed his reason for his deep gratitude for them.

“I give thanks to my God for every remembrance of you, always praying with joy for all of you in my every prayer, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now (…) indeed it is right for me to think this way about all of you, because I have you in my heart, and you are all partners with me in grace (…)”    (Philippians 1:3-7)

As you read his words today, gauge your willing partnership with other believers in Christ. What is currently shaping your attitude toward them? Is there anyone specific the Lord is bringing to mind? Pray over them and that relationship! What is your general and specific posture toward those in the family of God?

Today's Pause Challenge

1) Read through Philippians 2:1-4 out loud today twice. Slowly. Linger over that verse (or verses) that stick out to you, slowing and listening as God’s Spirit speaks to your heart! Choose 1 or 2 to write out on notecards and post them around your house – then post a picture of your reminder cards on Instagram or on our Facebook Community Page. Add it to your memory verses from this week.

2) We are so excited to share our Spotify playlist for Pause VI Week One! We created it as we prayed over *you*. Put this playlist on repeat this weekend and be reminded of the rich truths God has shown you this week in Pause 6!

3) Continue to memorize Philippians 1:20-21. If you can, add your additional verse(s) from today.

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family,kindness,love,mercy
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Day 4

Living as Christ meant Paul’s life was centered on Christ. Even when he recognized his own weakness and humanity, Paul turned to Christ’s perfection and salvation. (Romans 7:18-25) Even in prison, Paul drank deeply from the well of Christ’s love. He did not view his suffering as a liability, Paul realized it was a gift of grace. His suffering indicated he was becoming more and more like Christ.
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Jan 2 - Jan 20, 2023 - Journey Theme #112

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Posted in: Comfort, Family, Joy, Love Tagged: family, kindness, love, mercy

Pause VI Day 2 Fruitfulness Of Partnership

January 3, 2023 by Melodye Reeves Leave a Comment

Pause VI Day 2 Fruitfulness Of Partnership

Melodye Reeves

January 3, 2023

Heart,Joy,Love,Pause

Read His Words Before Ours!

Philippians 1:7-11

Indeed, it is right for me to think this way about all of you, because I have you in my heart, and you are all partners with me in grace, both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel. For God is my witness, how deeply I miss all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus. And I pray this: that your love will keep on growing in knowledge and every kind of discernment so that you may approve the things that are superior and may be pure and blameless in the day of Christ filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ to the glory and praise of God.

Read More Of His Words

All fruit springs from some sort of seed. Without that seed, fruit would be impossible. Once planted and properly cared for, the seed matures into fruit.

“Indeed, it is right for me to think this way about all of you …” (Philippians 1:7)

At the beginning of his letter to the believers at Philippi, Paul rehearses the evidence (fruit) he’d seen of gospel grace (seed) that had been planted in their hearts and lives. Paul’s deep affection and appreciation for them is seen by the joy he expresses that is in his heart as he thought about them. His feelings were not misplaced. They were typical feelings that anyone would have toward partners who have demonstrated such loyalty and faithfulness.

“… because I have you in my heart, and you are all partners with me in grace, both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel.” (Philippians 1:7)

Can you sense his heart’s overflowing thankfulness? What a beautiful phrase: partners with me in grace. That’s the most wonderful kind of partnership, isn’t it? I hope you have some partners in grace that walk alongside you in the gospel. We all need those who are with us in this journey of life. Scripture has included many instructions regarding our partnership with “one another.” We are to love, serve, honor, be devoted, encourage, pray for, and live in harmony with each other.

“For God is my witness, how deeply I miss all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 1:8)

The beauty of this kind of partnership is we can partner in grace even from a distance. Paul’s friends did this by living out their faith where they were. Just knowing they were in Philippi serving God and loving others encouraged and strengthened Paul from afar. He missed his friends deeply. He felt the sting and weight of the distance, but he also knew he was not alone in the shared gospel work. He had people in Philippi who were bearing fruit from the seed of the gospel that had been planted.

Paul and his partners found nourishment from the very same tree.

John 15:1-8 tells us Jesus is the source of good fruit; all who are in Jesus are partnered with Him by His grace.

Today's Pause Challenge

1)  Pull out your Bible and read the prayer in Philippians 1:9-11 fully through 3 times. 

2)  Each time, write down everything that pops out at you, noting Paul’s deepest desire, especially for those in Philippi.

3) 
Pay special attention to what is not mentioned. Consider what this may mean about what’s most important to pray for other.

4) Think about five people you care deeply about (a believer who is family or friend). Write their names in your journal. Pray these verses fervently for them.

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The GT Weekend! ~ Surrender Week 2
February 4, 2023
Surrender Day 10 True Joy: Digging Deeper
February 3, 2023
Surrender Day 10 True Joy
February 3, 2023

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Sanctified Saint

Do you consider yourself a saint? Some people who think they are shouldn’t be so sure, and others who think they aren’t should reconsider!
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Prayer is central to our ministry as believers in Jesus as we carry eachother’s burdens and intercede for one another. Our team is honored to share the work of praying alongside you!

  • prayer@gracefullytruthful.com
This Week's Lock Screen
Explore This Journey Theme!
Jan 2 - Jan 20, 2023 - Journey Theme #112

Join a GT POD!

Authentically living out a life of worship to the God who rescued us from darkness requires accountability and intentionality. Join a GT POD and take the next step in your faith journey!

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Posted in: Heart, Joy, Love, Pause Tagged: care, compassion, Fruitful, heart, love

The GT Weekend! ~ Sketched X Week 3

July 30, 2022 by Rebecca Adams Leave a Comment

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) Many of us know the hard edges of pain, injustice, and sorrow we felt would surely swallow us whole, or worse, bit by bit. Joseph’s story, the longest recorded single narrative in Genesis, is fraught with many opportunities to sink into the waves of sorrow, bitterness, and injustice. But God’s love was, and always will be, the greatest game changer of every story. In His lavish love, He strengthened Joseph’s faith in the midst of suffering and, rather than allow him to be swallowed by grief and despair, slowly taught Joseph to trust the Almighty Sovereign God. We each have this same choice. Every day. Every moment. Inside of each second of mundane or pain, God has provided the opportunity to lean into Him with authentic honesty or pull back. When we lean in, He increases our faith, strengthens our souls, sustains us, and gives His courage and peace. When we pull back, we soon find ourselves running blind through a minefield of bitterness, anger, depression, and despair. In the end, we lose everything. Take time to identity the opportunities the Lord is giving you recently. Where do you find your heart turning?

2) Joseph wasn’t really looking for redemption. He certainly wasn’t expecting to see the familiar faces of his brothers amidst the sea of faces that day as they came to Egypt, bowing to him, to purchase grain. Redemption and restoration within his family relationships may have surprised Joseph, but it didn’t surprise the Lord. He had seen this day from long before Joseph’s brothers had plotted to murder him. The Lord knew redemption was coming when Joseph unjustly sat in prison. More so, the Lord knew all the internal wrestling, heart ache, and grieving hot tears Joseph would cry in the years between being sold into slavery and the day he would embrace his brothers with glad tears. God never once abandoned Joseph; not one of His promises was broken. The Lord proved faithful at every single point, and eventually, Joseph saw with his physical eyes what the Lord had taught him to see with his spiritual eyes: redemption. The Lord loves us far too much to simply give us what we think we want in the physical realm without first teaching us what we really need in the spiritual realm: God Himself. Wherever you are in your own journey, high hope or struggling to lift your head, be encouraged that the God of redemption sees you, and He knows your redemption story inside and out. Trust Him!

3) Every injustice. Every broken place. Every wound that has relentlessly damaged bodies and relationships. Every single tear that has stained our cheeks. Healed, made whole, and redeemed one day. Joseph experienced only a small sliver of the full redemption the Lord had planned for His people during his life. Joseph’s family experienced partial redemption and the nation of Israel was blessed temporarily with safe harbor and sustaining food for a season. Eventually, though, Israel became enslaved for 400 years and suffered significantly in many ways even into modern times. Still, their homecoming is sure and certain, and so is ours. Whatever good we experience and whatever redemption we receive in this life is merely a hint of the good restoration still to come for those who have trusted Christ completely for their salvation. When we choose to adjust our lens to see our struggles with the perspective of Home on the horizon, even hardship becomes more bearable. Practice turning over your perspective to the Lord this weekend. Ask Him to fix your gaze on the eternity to come! To help you anchor in this truth, marinate your soul in truths of Scripture like Revelation 21 and 22 and Psalm 27.

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 John 13:7 back to the Lord and
let His Spirit speak to you through it!

Jesus answered him, “What I’m doing you don’t realize now, but afterward you will understand.”

Prayer Journal
Lord Jesus, like Peter at the Last Supper, like Joseph in prison, like Israel wandering the desert, like Abraham leaving his homeland to follow Your lead, Your words speak truth to our reality, “What I’m doing you don’t realize now, but afterward you will understand.” (John 13:7) When You sat with Moses at the burning bush (Exodus 3), when You commissioned Joshua to “be strong and courageous” (Joshua 1:9), when You came to Isaiah in a vision (Isaiah 6), they had no way of knowing what You were doing in their timeline or how it would echo through the ages. But You did; You knew all along. You never cease to be faithful, steadfast, and true.

Teach us to trust You with our stories. Teach us to honestly bring You every piece of our painful suffering, surrendering it fully to You, and waiting with great, expectant Hope for Your sure and certain coming redemption. What You are doing now in our lives, we cannot comprehend the wide spectrum You have planned, but teach us to live by faith and not by sight. May our hearts choose praise, worship, and adoration now, whatever our circumstances look like. Here is my life, Lord God, make Your redemption known in its storyline!

Worship Through Community

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Worship Through Prayer

Worship Through Music

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Posted in: Anxious, Believe, Broken, Excuses, Faith, God, Good, Gospel, Grace, Journey, Joy Tagged: faith, follow, GT Weekend, hope, redemption, story, suffering, worship

Sketched X Day 15 Coming Home

July 29, 2022 by Lesley Crawford 9 Comments

Read His Words Before Ours!

Genesis 46:1-7
Genesis 46:28-47:12
Genesis 50
Romans 8:28
Revelation 21:3-4

Sketched X, Day 15

It was a day I thought I’d never see . . .

As I lay at the bottom of the well expecting to die;
as I came to grips with my new life of servitude in Egypt;
as I sat in jail, imprisoned for a crime I didn’t commit;
even as I knew success as governor of Egypt:
I never thought I would see my father again.

But, to my delight, after I finally revealed my identity to my brothers, Pharaoh told me to send them to get my father and the rest of the family. He offered them the best of the land of Egypt as their home. I could hardly wait to be reunited with my father at last.

I’ll never forget the moment I saw him. It was overwhelming. Both of us wept as we embraced one another, neither of us wanting to let go. So many years had passed, but the love between us had endured. He had believed me to be dead, and I had been unsure whether he was still alive. The pain brought by the years apart was eclipsed in an instant at the joy of being together again.

My father told me how God had spoken to him on the road to Egypt:

“I am God, the God of your father. Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will make you into a great nation there. I will go down with you to Egypt, and I will also bring you back. Joseph will close your eyes when you die.” (Genesis 46:3-4)

It reassured me that in the mess of our family’s complicated story, God was sovereign. He had gone before us, He was with us, and He had a good plan for us. We had seen God’s faithfulness.

There were many happy times together in Egypt in the years that followed. My brothers worked as shepherds, and I successfully led Egypt through the remaining years of famine. Our family grew and flourished.

It sounds like this should be the end of the story, the part where “they all lived happily ever after,” but of course real life doesn’t work out like that. My father was growing old, and all too soon, the time came for him to join his ancestors in death.

We had seventeen years together in Egypt; a blessing I never dared dream possible. My father saw his grandsons and blessed them; his final years were filled with joy and gratitude at having the whole family together once more.

Before he died, my father asked to be buried with his grandfather, Abraham, and his father, Isaac. He had never forgotten God’s promise all these years, “I will go down with you to Egypt, and I will also bring you back.” (Genesis 46:4)

Although he had prospered during his years in Egypt, Canaan was his home, the land God had promised, and he knew God would be faithful to His word. So, after seeking permission from Pharaoh, my brothers and I set out to lay our father to rest at home.

On our return to Egypt, I was surprised to receive a message from my brothers asking my forgiveness for how they had mistreated me. Didn’t they realise I had forgiven them long ago? Although I had assured them of this even before our father came to Egypt, it seems there was some lingering doubt causing them to speculate that now our father had died, I might decide to take my revenge!

I was overcome with sorrow at how worried they were, at how they must have tormented themselves over the years. Their actions were wrong and caused me great suffering, but, looking back, I see how, even in hardship, God was working for good. He led me to Egypt and put me in a position where I could save the lives of many people.

Through all that happened, God had been with me. How could I hold a grudge? I had known God’s kindness, the kindness  intended to lead to repentance (Romans 2:4), and I was more than happy to offer that same kindness to my brothers.

I comforted them and promised to care for them and their children, and I think this time they saw my sincerity.

As I look back over my life, I marvel at how God has worked and I’m grateful for how He has brought my brothers and me to this place of peace and flourishing. I trust God will keep His promise to bring my family back to Canaan one day, but I also look beyond Canaan to the day I will be reunited with my father again, forever this time, when we will dwell together with God at the great heavenly homecoming, the true happy ending.

“Then I heard a loud voice from the throne: Look, God’s dwelling is with humanity, and he will live with them. They will be his peoples and God himself will be with them and will be their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more; grief, crying, and pain will be no more, because the previous things have passed away.” (Revelation 21:3-4)

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A Note About Sketched
In this series, we are stepping into the shoes of various characters throughout history. Some are biblical, some are well-known in modern day times, and some are people our writers know personally. We do our best to research the culture and times surrounding these individuals to give an accurate representation of their first-person perspectives on life and the world, but we can’t be 100% accurate. “Sketched” is our best interpretation of how these characters view(ed) God, themselves, and the world around them. Our hope is that by stepping into their everyday, we will see our own lives a little differently!
Enjoy!
And keep watching for Sketched Themes to pop up throughout the year!

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 Sketched X Week Three! Don’t miss out on the discussion below – we’d love to hear your thoughts!
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Looking for other journeys from this theme?
Here’s a link to all past studies in Sketched X

Posted in: Blessed, Faithfulness, Family, God, Joy, Love Tagged: blessed, faith, family, God, joy, love
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And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen His glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14