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Follow Day 12 Question, Follow, Faith: 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 Question, Follow, Faith!

The Questions

1) Why does God say His ways and thoughts are not ours? (verse 8)

2) How can we follow God’s ways when they do not align with our own ideas and wishes?

3) What biblical events can encourage us to have faith in God’s ways?

Isaiah 55:8-11

8  “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, and your ways are not my ways.” This is the Lord’s declaration. 9 “For as heaven is higher than earth, so my ways are higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. 10 For just as rain and snow fall from heaven and do not return there without saturating the earth and making it germinate and sprout, and providing seed to sow and food to eat, 11 so my word that comes from my mouth will not return to me empty, but it will accomplish what I please and will prosper in what I send it to do.”

Original Intent

1) Why does God say His ways and thoughts are not ours? (verse 8)
We all have a sinful nature (Romans 3:9), meaning we can never please God on our own, but God is divine and perfect. He knows the end from the beginning (Isaiah 46:10); God intimately knows everything. We, on the other hand, have gone astray like sheep and turned to our own sinful ways. Our continual choice to serve ourselves over God by choosing sin is why Jesus came to earth to bare our iniquities on the cross by His death. (Isaiah 53:6) Therefore, His thoughts and ways are much higher and better than our own. Just like the heavens are higher than the earth (Isaiah 55:9). Only He has ultimate understanding, authority, and complete righteousness!

2) How can we follow God’s ways when they do not align with our own ideas and wishes?
In Moses’ time, the Lord had commanded the Israelites to “love the Lord your God, walk in all his ways, keep his commands, be loyal to him, and serve him with all your heart and all your soul.” (Joshua 22:5) They were familiar with His laws and ways, yet the people often wandered off His path of wisdom. When Moses stayed too long on Mount Sinai, the people resorted to creating and worshipping a golden calf, a thing strictly forbidden for only God is worthy of worship! (Exodus 32:1) They were released from bondage in Egypt, yet they grumbled they didn’t have water or nice food like in the city. (Exodus 17:3; Exodus 16:2-3) Even His chosen people struggled to come to terms with God’s ways and plans. Wise followers of Jesus know that God’s way alone is perfect. (Psalm 18:30). They understand that His plans are for their well-being, to provide a future and a hope. (Jeremiah 29:11) Whenever it feels like God is pushing them into a direction opposite where they want to go, the righteous person remembers God’s ways are higher. They remember that, although a way may seem right to a person, its end might lead to death. (Proverbs 14:12)

3) What biblical events can encourage us to have faith in God’s ways?
An excellent biblical account of someone whose plans were different than God’s plans must be Joseph from the Old Testament. (Genesis 37:1 – 47:12) Jacob had 12 sons, of whom Joseph was his favourite. His favoritism was lavished on Joseph in the form of a beautiful coat of many colors, and he even received dreams from God. Then one day, he was sold as a slave by his own jealous brothers! He was taken to Egypt away from his beloved father, not knowing what would happen to him. Perhaps he even felt as if God had abandoned him. Nothing could be further from the truth, however, for God had amazing plans for Joseph that went far beyond anything he could imagine on his own. Joseph eventually became governor, acting as second in command to none but Pharaoh. Eventually, God brought redemption through Joseph to the brothers who had disowned him and used Joseph’s place of influence to provide for his family during a time of immense drought. Not only did God use one man’s story to rescue his immediate family, but through these divinely ordained plans, God planted “His Family” the Hebrews, from Joseph’s family. You might know them from a different name, as Jews. An entire nation was birthed because God’s plans overtook man’s plans!

Everyday Application

1) Why does God say His ways and thoughts are not ours? (verse 8)
Although we’d like to think our ways and thoughts are just as perfect as God’s, they’re simply not. The Bible tells us we’re all sinners, not one of us is righteous. (Romans 3:9) None of us will attain to God’s level of holiness on our own without Jesus. We don’t even know what we should pray for and need the Spirit’s help to pray correctly! (Romans 8:26) In contrast, God is perfect! His Son, who is God’s exact image (Hebrews 1:3), never sinned in His time on earth although He was tempted in every way as we are. (Hebrews 4:15) His divinity was able to withstand the devil. We are not able to do so alone. Our human nature is more willing to surrender to evil than to good (Romans 7:18-19), and it’s only through Christ we have the hope of eternal life with God. In other words, our ways and thoughts are wicked on their own. Only God’s ways and thoughts are perfect, and therefore, they’re not ours.

2) How can we follow God’s ways when they do not align with our own ideas and wishes?
Jesus is very straightforward to us in saying, “If anyone loves me, he will keep My word.” (John 14:23) We already read in Isaiah 55:11 where God said, “So My word that comes from My mouth will not return to Me empty, but it will accomplish what I please and will prosper in what I send it to do”. In other words, if we love Him, we will be able to keep His Word through the power of His Spirit living within us. His ways and His thoughts are active in us when we submit to following Him. If we trust Him, we will obey and follow the Lord even though we cannot see where He’s leading us. God knows all things and knows exactly how everything will work out. We need to have faith in Him for He is faithful (Hebrews 10:23) and His ways are perfect. And they always accomplish what they were supposed to do. His plans are never in vain. Remembering this can help us abandon our own thoughts and surrender to God.

3) What biblical events can encourage us to have faith in God’s ways?
When we look in the New Testament, we can be inspired and encouraged by all the disciples of Jesus (and obviously Jesus Himself). Each life was flipped upside down from the moment they met Jesus, and even more so after His crucifixion and resurrection. They were imprisoned (Acts 12:3), beaten (2 Corinthians 11:25), and eventually killed (Acts 12:2) for following Christ. Saul was on his way to Damascus to bring an end of the spread of Christianity. Instead, the Lord stopped him on his tracks and blinded him (Acts 9:1-9). Saul, then became Paul, left his old life of persecution behind and influenced the early church, (and our own modern lives!), by his preaching and writing. In fact, the majority of the New Testament consists of Paul’s letters to encourage and strengthen the church! I’m sure his life didn’t really play out the way he had initially planned. Yet, he trusted God every step of the way, whether free or imprisoned, he sang praises to the Lord (Acts 16:25) and continued to follow Christ until death. Reading their stories and experiences as often as we can will encourage us to remain faithful as we pursue Christ in everyday life. Even if God rearranges our plans in different ways than we had hoped or dreamed, surrender to his hand, acknowledging His plans are necessary for our growth in faith and the work for His glory.

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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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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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Follow Day 1 Trust Through Tears

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Read His Words Before Ours!

Job 1-2
Job 42
John 9:1-7
Romans 8:26-39
Romans 9:14-24

Follow, Day 1

Conventional wisdom says following God is easy when life is going well. We can trust Him when our circumstances seem to confirm God is good.

But what happens when life doesn’t go as we expect?
What happens to our faith in God when our circumstances seem to push back on our idea of the “goodness” of God?
Can we still trust Him?
Can we still follow God in the midst of suffering?

Job and his friends wrestled together with these questions (sometimes well, and sometimes poorly) throughout the Biblical book of Job. Job’s experience can be difficult for us to read; I find myself asking uncomfortable questions.

Why did God allow all of these terrible attacks against Job?
Why did Job lose everything after he had lived a blameless and upright life?
Didn’t Job deserve better treatment from God?

Job and his friends asked these same questions. Job maintained he was innocent of any wrongdoing, while his friends insisted he must have sinned to deserve the suffering to which he was subjected.

While I am often too afraid or embarrassed to ask these questions, Job was not. He asked and asked why he was suffering. He asked his friends to help him see his wrongdoing, but they could not.

Finally, Job was so discouraged by his circumstances that he began questioning God directly.
“I will say to God, ‘Do not declare me guilty! Let me know why you prosecute me. Is it good for you to oppress, to reject the work of your hands and favor the plans of the wicked?”
(Job 10:2-3)

Overwhelmed by his suffering despite his innocence, Job began to question God’s character. He was honest before God about his struggles, and sought to find answers. He never denied God, but he did question His plans.

When life beats us down, and we wonder where God is, it can be tempting to think we have done something wrong to deserve this hardship. We might consider suffering as a “sign” we have gotten off-track, just as Job’s friends believed his suffering to be a punishment for secret sin.

But this is not how God has revealed Himself. In fact, centuries later, Jesus and His disciples have a conversation about this very idea! The disciples see a man born blind and assume his condition is a direct result of someone’s sin. Jesus corrects their thinking, explaining, “This came about so that God’s works might be displayed in him.” (John 9:3) Jesus reveals the man’s blindness was not a punishment for sin, but a tool God was using to declare His glory.

This is where we can get uncomfortable again.
We ask those troubling questions.

Is God unjust?
Does He inflict pain just because He can?

Of course not! Paul addresses these questions in Romans 9.
“What should we say then? Is there injustice with God? Absolutely not! For He tells Moses, I will show mercy to whom I will show mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. So then it does not depend on human will or effort but on God who shows mercy.” (Romans 9:14-16)

When Job questioned the purposes and wisdom of God, God Himself came down to speak to him. The Lord answered Job, but with more questions. He revealed to Job his own limitations and ignorance.

God asked Job, “Would you really challenge my justice? Would you declare me guilty to justify yourself?” (Job 40:8) He asked Job to explain the whole of the universe, from the stars of the sky, to weather patterns, to the behavior of the animals. God did this, not to be cruel or harsh, but to remind Job of the vastness of His knowledge and power.

We have a limited view of the world. We only see, know, and understand a sliver of His plans, but the Lord knows all. He purposes all things for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28), and we can count on this truth.

So, when life is confusing, and doesn’t seem to be going our way, we have a choice. We can choose to question God and wonder if He cares about us. Or we can choose to follow the Lord, trusting His ways are good, even when we can’t see how.

As wise followers of the Lord, we can maintain our devotion to Him even when life seems unfair. God’s vast wisdom is far superior to our own plans.

In the end of the story, Job repented of his self-righteous questioning. Job did not suffer perfectly, but he continued in his faithful pursuit of God’s character, even in his brokenness and despair. Job knew how to follow, because he knew the character of God.

Finally, God not only forgave Job, but also restored to him his fortunes, wealth, and position in his community. While we are not guaranteed a “happy ending” in this life, if we faithfully serve the Lord, we can trust we will receive our reward of eternal life with the Father.

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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!

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Worship VII Day 11 Held Fast

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Read His Words Before Ours!

2 Timothy 1:8-14
Psalm 91
2 Corinthians 4:7-18
Hebrews 6:17-20
Jude 1:24-25

Worship VII, Day 11

When asked in 2015, “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?” I’m certain no one answered correctly! In Kansas City, we started with a Super Bowl Championship parade; joy was in the air and life was GOOD.

A few weeks later, Covid-19 entered the US; life turned upside-down.
Stay-at-home orders were issued.
#InThisTogether began trending.

Despite the hashtag’s slogan, however, stress and uncertainty quickly gave way to anger and division on our streets over racial inequality. The deaths of Ahmaud, Breonna, and George sparked protests against racial injustice and emotions raced even higher.

Adding to the tumult, investigations continue uncovering horrific atrocities against children.

Not to mention, it’s an election year in the United States.

Yep, pretty sure NO ONE could have predicted 2020’s events.
NO ONE except God.

As unsettling as 2020 has been so far, NOTHING has surprised God.  Our family word is KAIROS, referring to how God’s timing is SO different from ours.  As finite humans with limited knowledge, we are unable to “fathom what God has done from the beginning to the end.” (Ecclesiastes 3:11)

To illustrate this mystery, consider a beautiful tapestry.  Merely surveying the BACK of the tapestry reveals only a tangle of thread and knots. Amidst the mess, the weaver continues the work, knowing the end result will be stunning.

GOD is a master weaver.

2020 is part of His plan.
In fact, all of history is His Story unfolding.
None of it is beyond His weaver’s fingers.
We can trust Him!

In the midst of chaos and confusion, HE remains steadfast, faithful, and GOOD.
We must cling to this truth!

Sitting in the middle of the unknown, it’s tempting to feel overwhelmed or defeated. Instead, let’s focus on truth: God is still at work.

In researching the hymn, He Will Hold Me Fast, I was blown away by God’s Almighty ability to weave the threads together.

In the early 1900s, the traveling evangelist, R.A. Torrey, was sharing the gospel. In 1902, in Australia, Robert Harkness joined his team as a pianist. Ironically, he agreed to be an accompanist at revival meetings BEFORE trusting Jesus as his personal Savior. He actually tried to mess up the music but failed. Due to the grace shown him by Torrey, he accepted Christ into his life.

The team traveled Australia, Tasmania, New Zealand, India, and the British Isles while sharing Jesus. In London, they connected with the then-famous song writer, Ada Habershon, who joined their team. Ada would pen hymns lyrics while Robert expertly put them to music.

In 1906, a Canadian man spoke with Robert, expressing his fear of being unable to “hold out” in the midst of difficulty. Harkness wrote to Ada in England and requested lyrics speaking to this man’s struggle.

While Torrey preached to a crowd of 4,000 in Philadelphia, Harkness took out the slips of paper with Ada’s newly penned words for “He Will Hold Me Fast”, putting them to a melody then and there.

The music was captivating, and the song’s message stuck.
Over a hundred years later, we still sing Ada’s lyrics set to Robert’s melodies.
Incredibly, these words from 1906 intertwine perfectly with the experiences of 2020!

This is God at work, weaving a beautiful tapestry!

I got goosebumps reading testimonies of the impact Ada’s words have had over the years, even some from Kansas City.  Consider studying this history for yourself and pray God reminds you He is the same today just as He was then. (Hebrews 13:8)

Do you fear you also cannot “hold out”?

Maybe you need to be reminded we don’t need to depend on OUR strength, but in Jesus!  We can REST in Him, depending FULLY on HIS wisdom, power, joy, hope, peace, courage, and love.

Do you feel weak or weary?
Can you sense fear creeping in?
You are NOT alone.
Christ will hold you fast.

Do you question where your path will take you?
Do you question God’s love and goodness?
Do you doubt His sovereignty?
Do you wonder if He TRULY cares about you and the details of YOUR life?
You are NOT alone.
Christ will hold you fast.

Do doubt, cynicism, and anger seem to be crowding out grace and compassion?
Does showing love to others feel exhausting?
You are NOT alone.
Christ will hold you fast.

Do you feel control slipping away?
Are you longing for Jesus to come back, wondering why He hasn’t yet?
Are you worried you might lose hope before He does?
You are NOT alone.
Christ will hold you fast.

Recently, the song, Another In The Fire, reminded me again that even in the FIRE, we are not alone.  Jesus stands with us just as He did with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.

God parted the Red Sea.
He provided manna in the wilderness.
He shot water from a rock.
He closed lions’ mouths.
He defeated a giant through one boy’s faith.
Time and time again throughout history, He made His presence and power known as He wove His tapestry.

Then, He came to actually DWELL among us.
Jesus left heaven and was born humbly in Bethlehem.
His presence and power were felt in fresh BIG ways.

Jesus made the lame walk, the deaf hear, the blind see, and brought the dead back to life.
Then, one day, He Himself died, paying the penalty for our sin.
Three days later, He rose again, forever conquering Death and offering eternal life and forgiveness to all who trust Him!
He can indeed hold us fast!

No thread of history can unravel God’s plan, including 2020 and the struggles in your life! We can trust JESUS remains constant, knowing He will forever hold us fast!

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Can we pray for 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 Worship VII Week Three! Don’t miss out on the discussion below – we’d love to hear your thoughts!

Looking for other journeys from this theme?
Here’s a link to all past studies in Worship VII!

Worship VII Day 2 Be Still My Soul: 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 Be Still My Soul!

The Questions

1) How has God justified us, as believers, so no one can condemn us? (verses 33-34)

2) What does it mean that Jesus is sitting at God’s right hand interceding for us? (verse 34)

3) How can we be more than conquerors despite the troubles we face? (verses 35-39)

Romans 8:31-39

31 What, then, are we to say about these things? If God is for us, who is against us? 32 He did not even spare his own Son but gave him up for us all. How will he not also with him grant us everything? 33 Who can bring an accusation against God’s elect? God is the one who justifies. 34 Who is the one who condemns? Christ Jesus is the one who died, but even more, has been raised; he also is at the right hand of God and intercedes for us. 35 Who can separate us from the love of Christ? Can affliction or distress or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36 As it is written:

Because of you
we are being put to death all day long;
we are counted as sheep to be slaughtered.

37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, 39 nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Original Intent

1) How has God justified us, as believers, so no one can condemn us? (verses 33-34)
Paul wrote to the persecuted Christians in Rome so they could confidently know that no one could condemn them because they were justified by God. (Romans 8:33) The Greek word for justification, dikaioo, “describes the act by which a man is brought into a right state of relationship to God. Dikaioo is a legal term connected with the law and the courtroom, where it represented the legally binding verdict of the judge.” Paul wanted his readers to be confident that God, the highest authority and Judge, justified them through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. No one else had the power to say differently. God freed those who trusted in Jesus from all condemnation that Satan, or any person, could charge against them. As author Stephen Cole puts it, “No one can go above God’s head to change His decision to justify the sinner who has faith in Jesus. If God has justified you, you’re justified! He’s the Supreme Court of all Supreme Courts!” When Paul asked who can accuse or condemn (Romans 8:34), he didn’t mean no one would attempt to condemn Christians.  Satan would still lie and accuse, and enemies of Christ would still hurl accusations and persecute believers. Paul emboldens his readers by teaching them that none of those condemning words matters to our standing with God. Every sin is covered by the blood of Christ, and no guilt or shame can attach itself to anyone covered by the blood of Jesus.

2) What does it mean that Jesus is sitting at God’s right hand interceding for us? (verse 34)
Paul makes this bold statement about Jesus interceding for us; author David Guzik helps us understand this by noting, “The right hand was the place of status and favor. This is because in the thinking of ancient cultures, most people being right handed, the right hand was the hand of power, skill, and strength. To be at someone’s right hand was more prestigious than being at the left hand.” Jesus is seated at this place of honor at God’s right hand in Heaven, but He isn’t there to rest.  He is actively praying for us! Not only did Jesus save us by dying on the cross to cover our sins when He came to earth, but He prays for each of us now while in the position of the Father’s right hand in Heaven.  Hebrews 7:25 also tells us Jesus always lives to intercede for us.  The Holy Spirit, co-equal with God the Father and God the Son, also intercedes for us according to Romans 8:26. This is such an affirmation of the love of God! Not only did He secure our salvation by His sacrifice on the cross, but He helps us and cares for us by praying for, and on behalf of, us. Author Gavin Ortlund asserts, “The intercessory work of Christ is invaluable to every Christian, for it makes clear that our ongoing acceptance before God is finally grounded in the utter sufficiency of the cross.”  It is almost too much to believe that the Savior who paid the price for our sin also sits in Heaven interceding for us.  He didn’t stop at rescuing our souls. He lives to intercede for us, showing us His love in yet another incredible act of service.

3) How can we be more than conquerors despite the troubles we face? (verses 35-39)
In verses 35-37, Paul connects with his persecuted brothers and sisters by querying, “Who can separate us from the love of Christ? Can affliction or distress or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written: Because of you we are being put to death all day long; we are counted as sheep to be slaughtered.  No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” As Paul describes the various troubles Christians walk through, he quotes from Psalm 44:22, which would have been quite familiar to his original audience. This passage is a complaint by the nation of Israel that God seemed to have forgotten them. The Psalm ends with an outcry for God to redeem them on account of His faithful love. (Psalm 44:26) This is also Paul’s message to the Roman Christians. God’s love is so strong that nothing can separate us from His love.  Paul is even so bold as to say that in every scenario he mentioned, we are more than conquerors through Jesus. He asserts that believers go beyond just conquering! Author Ray Stedman suggests one who is more than a conqueror “actually takes the very things that are designed to destroy him, and they become stepping stones instead of stumbling blocks.”  How does God take these dire circumstances and make us more than conquerors?  Author David Guzik notes how one “overcomes with a greater power, the power of Jesus.  He overcomes with a greater motive, the glory of Jesus.  He overcomes with a greater victory, losing nothing even in the battle.  He overcomes with a greater love, conquering enemies with love and converting persecutors with patience.”  It is the power and love of Jesus in us giving us victory over every affliction and helping us come out victorious. Jesus loved us so much He died on the cross for us, and that love not only saved us, but makes us more than conquerors in every trial we face.

Everyday Application

1) How has God justified us, as believers, so no one can condemn us? (verses 33-34)
Nothing has sent me searching the Scriptures for wisdom, praying and proclaiming the promises I find in the Bible more than being a parent of teenagers. My teens haven’t even been particularly troublesome or rebellious!  They just live in a world that wants to hurt them and tear them down while I am working to build them up and help them heal. In the midst of the fight, I find myself vulnerable to the lies of the enemy when it comes to my parenting.  Any hurt or struggle my kids face is an opportunity for Satan to highlight my failures and shortcomings.  “You had one job…to protect them!  And you couldn’t even do that,” I hear ringing in my ears.  I constantly second guess our parenting choices. Are we too strict? Maybe too permissive?  Do we not listen enough, or do we hover too much?  It’s easy to lose sight of what Paul tells us in Romans 8:33, “Who can bring an accusation against God’s elect? God is the one who justifies.”  Even though Satan hurls accusations at me, the finality of God’s word says my sins are washed away and I am forgiven, saved by Jesus. (Titus 3:5)  He loved me and sacrificed His life for me before I ever knew Him or loved Him. (Romans 5:8) He knew when He redeemed me that I would still make mistakes and sin (1 John 1:8-10), but His voice never condemns me. (Romans 8:33) He gives me grace and helps me recover from the natural consequences of my sin. (Hebrews 4:16) Amazingly, He uses all my failures to mature me and shape me more like Him, working everything together for my good and His glory! (Romans 8:28) He gently reminds me He is continuously doing all these things for my kids, too. They are also saved by His grace, not their works, or mine! He is for them, and nothing the enemy tries can separate them from God’s love. (Romans 8:39)

2) What does it mean that Jesus is sitting at God’s right hand interceding for us? (verse 34)
I believe in the power of prayer.  I believe prayer works because I have seen answered prayers in my own life and in the lives of others, not because prayer is “magical”, but because the God who answers prayer lives and moves and loves for our good and His glory! The Bible tells us in James 5:16 that the effective, fervent prayers of righteous people really do make a difference!  If the prayers of the saints can be effective, then what must the prayers of Jesus do?! It is almost unfathomable that my Savior is in Heaven praying for me, yet this is the reality Paul describes in Romans 8:34. I almost can’t wrap my head around the concept of Christ interceding in Heaven for me. What an amazing act of love and care.  Author John Murray suggests, “Nothing serves to verify the intimacy and constancy of the Redeemer’s preoccupation with the security of his people, nothing assures us of His unchanging love more than the tenderness which His heavenly priesthood bespeaks and particularly as it comes to expression in intercession for us.” His intercession is such a sweet outpouring of His deep love for us. I wonder how different I would feel and behave if I remembered at least once each day that Jesus was praying for me.  Surely, I would feel safer and happier knowing He was pleading to God on my behalf!  I invite you to join me each day in pondering the truth of Scripture’s declaration, Jesus intercedes for us! Holding to this truth will make us less fearful and more secure in His boundless love than ever before!

3) How can we be more than conquerors despite the troubles we face? (verses 35-39)
It should greatly encourage every Christian when the apostle Paul says “we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us” (Romans 8:37), especially since he was referencing some major difficulties like persecution, famine and other dangers. (Romans 8:35-37) To read that God declares me as more than a conqueror over struggle is awesome!  However, there are many days when I feel like a loser, far from a conqueror, and my only foe was an unruly toddler or a snarky lady at the post office. When I lose sight of God’s love and power and try to do things in my own strength, I lose the battle pretty quickly. The good news is I am never separated from the love of God and the help He gives. Paul tells us he is convinced there is not one single thing able to keep us away from the love of Jesus. (verses 38-39) Paul is not just being a flowery writer or exaggerating to make a point in these verses. He has first-hand experience of many of the afflictions he describes, yet he has overcome them all through the power of God.  None of the hardships Paul faced have caused him to turn away from God. God’s love was with him in every circumstance, and he knew God is faithful to keep loving us and helping us no matter what.  I purpose in the days ahead to see myself as more than a conqueror, strengthened and protected by the love of Christ in me.  I may not be able to avoid afflictions, but I can overcome them with God’s help.

What do YOU think?! Share Here!
Missing the connection to our other Journey Study?
Catch up with Be Still My Soul!

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 VII 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.

Calling Day 9 Live Worthy: 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 Live Worthy

The Questions

1) What is the calling received in verse 4 and how do we live worthy of it?

2) What is the gift Christ gives in verse 7 compared to the gifts in verse 8?

3) Why is there an emphasis on unity in these verses?

Ephesians 4:1-16

Therefore I, the prisoner in the Lord, urge you to walk worthy of the calling you have received, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, 3 making every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope at your calling—5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in all.
7 Now grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift.
8 For it says:
When he ascended on high,
he took the captives captive;
he gave gifts to people.
9 But what does “he ascended” mean except that he also descended to the lower parts of the earth? 10 The one who descended is also the one who ascended far above all the heavens, to fill all things.11 And he himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, 12 to equip the saints for the work of ministry, to build up the body of Christ, 13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of God’s Son, growing into maturity with a stature measured by Christ’s fullness. 14 Then we will no longer be little children, tossed by the waves and blown around by every wind of teaching, by human cunning with cleverness in the techniques of deceit. 15 But speaking the truth in love, let us grow in every way into him who is the head—Christ. 16 From him the whole body, fitted and knit together by every supporting ligament, promotes the growth of the body for building itself up in love by the proper working of each individual part.

Original Intent

1) What is the calling received in verse 4 and how do we live worthy of it?
When referring to the calling of the Ephesian believers, Paul reminds them they belong to Christ. Christ has called them to Himself and they are now representatives of Christ to the unbelieving world. Christ called them out of their life of sin, which brought death, and offered them the gift of eternal life. Paul is challenging the Ephesians to live as those who received that gift. Paul defines how the Ephesians can live worthy of the calling in verses 2-3, specifically, by living in humility, gentleness, patience, love, and in unity as believers. On the surface, these seem difficult, however, when Jesus is living through us these are the traits that flow out of us with the power of the Holy Spirit working from the inside.

2) What is the gift Christ gives in verse 7 compared to the gifts in verse 8?
Unlike most of the Ephesian letter, Paul takes an individualistic tone in verse 7. He is speaking to the individual believer and not the Church as a whole. Paul is reminding them of the gift Christ bestowed on them which is grace. This gift is in proportion to what Christ bestows on each individual. Gift is singular in verse 7, not plural as it is in verse 8. Paul shifts to a plural word in verse 8 and lists several of the gifts bestowed on believers in verses 11-12. The gifts listed in those verses are some of what Paul is referencing in verse 8. These gifts are given for the advancement of the Kingdom, and meant for the betterment of the entire community.

3) Why is there an emphasis on unity in these verses?
Together, the believers in Ephesus make up a local Body of Christ. They each have different gifts and roles to play. Paul is reminding them of the importance of unity throughout this section. He is speaking to the entire body of believers and not the individual. This unity is important because the church is only as good as those who are in actively working within it. As believers work together in unity, they are challenged to grow, and sharpened to work properly as Christ has called them. On an island alone, no believer can reach their true potential or calling. Proverbs 27:17 speaks to the sharpening of mankind. If there is no unity, there cannot be sharpening. We must focus on God, instead of ourselves, and allow Him to bind us together in unity if the Church is to be the Church as God designed her to be. True unity doesn’t happen without prayerful work and intentional discipline, and it doesn’t happen without staying focused on what binds the Church together, which Paul specifically states in verses 5-6. As each individual of the Church clings to the truth of unity under the truth of “one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God” (verse 4), the Church is sharpened, and each gift is better used to advance the Kingdom.

Everyday Application

1) What is the calling received in verse 4 and how do we live worthy of it?
We are called Christians, bearing the name of Christ as our identity. The calling we received is that of belonging to Him. As we grow in relationship with Christ, who we are looks increasingly more like Him. Just as the Ephesians were representatives to the world around them, so are we. We are called to be Christ’s representatives to an unbelieving world. Our lives should be an overflow of what Christ is doing in us. When we are walking closely with the Lord, it His love and heart the world sees playing out in the characteristics Paul mentions in verses 2-3. Matthew Henry writes, “Christians ought to accommodate themselves to the gospel by which they are called, and to the glory to which they are called; both are their vocation. We are called Christians; we must answer that name, and live like Christians. We are called to God’s kingdom and glory; that kingdom and glory therefore we must mind, and walk as becomes the heirs of them.” Is this what others see when they look at you? Does the world see Jesus when they see you?

2) What is the gift Christ gives in verse 7 compared to the gifts in verse 8?
“But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.” (Ephesians 4:7) Each of us receives grace as Christ gifts it to us. Just as with the Ephesians, this gift is an individualistic gift of grace, providing believers not with what they deserve, but with something so much better, forgiveness and life. The gifts in verses 11-12 still exist today and no single believer is given all of them. Within the Body of Christ, the Church, we each have gifts to use to advance the Kingdom and pour into His Church. Christ entrusts each of us with gifts He intends to use through us. Much like in the parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30, it is our choice what we will do with those gifts. We can choose to utilize those gifts and grow them, or we can choose to bury them away, using them for selfish purposes. Sisters, are you actively looking for opportunities to serve others with the gifts He has given you, or are you hiding them away? If you aren’t using them, I urge you to begin looking for outlets to serve using the gifts God has given. The Church was designed for each of us to use our gifts for His Kingdom! We need each other!

3) Why is there an emphasis on unity in these verses?
Matthew 28:16-20 provides the call on all believers to make disciples of people in all nations. When I think about this, I am in awe that God would entrust me with the task of sharing the Gospel! However, I am quickly reminded this is not a task I am capable of completing on my own. My job is to plant seeds in those who do not know Him, and allow the God of the Universe to water and grow those seeds. I am also quickly reminded this task of making disciples globally is not one I can accomplish alone. Yes, I have a role to play, as do each one of us who trust in Jesus as Savior, but alone it would be impossible. It is only as we band together in unity under Christ, who is the head of the Church, we can accomplish the mission set before us. When the world looks to the church and sees division instead of unity, the message of the Gospel is lost. When the Church cannot come together in unity under the one who saved us, we can never reach our potential. We need each other to make us better. If we all had exactly the same gifts, viewpoints, and passions, the Church would be pretty boring, but it would also not be able to work as God intended. We need each other to have a complete picture. Therefore, I ask you, are you allowing the differences to tear us apart or looking to what unifies us to make each of us better?

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

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 Calling Week Two!
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.

Calling Day 4 For The Church: 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 For The Church!

The Questions

1) Who is the “you” in these verses?

2) What is the Spirit of wisdom and revelation? (verse 17)

3) Why is there such an emphasis on Christ being above everything in verses 21-22?

Ephesians 1:15-23

15 This is why, since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, 16 I never stop giving thanks for you as I remember you in my prayers. 17 I pray that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, would give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him. 18 I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened so that you may know what is the hope of his calling, what is the wealth of his glorious inheritance in the saints, 19 and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the mighty working of his strength.

20 He exercised this power in Christ by raising him from the dead and seating him at his right hand in the heavens— 21 far above every ruler and authority, power and dominion, and every title given, not only in this age but also in the one to come. 22 And he subjected everything under his feet and appointed him as head over everything for the church, 23 which is his body, the fullness of the one who fills all things in every way.

Original Intent

1) Who is the “you” in these verses?
Paul uses the pronouns “you” and “your” several times in verses 15-19 therefore it is important to know who Paul is praying for, so we can have an accurate understanding of this passage. Originally, Paul’s letter was written in Greek. Thanks to ancient texts that have been preserved, Bible scholars can read the original words in its original language, which reveals how each instance of “you” and “your” in these particular verses is actually plural. If we read Ephesians 1:13, we know the audience had placed their faith fully in Jesus. “In Him you (y’all) also were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit when you (y’all) heard the word of truth, the gospel of your (ya’lls’) salvation, and when you (y’all) believed.” Therefore, we know Paul is addressing the entire body of believers in Ephesus, not just one person.  He is praying for, and speaking to, the greater Church as a whole.

2) What is the Spirit of wisdom and revelation? (verse 17)
Paul writes out his prayer request for God to give the Ephesians His Spirit of wisdom and revelation. True wisdom comes from the Father and is something we must look for in Him alone. (Proverbs 9:10) To fully understand “revelation”, it’s helpful to first understand the definition in Greek. Paul uses the word “apokalupsous”, which is the derivative for our word “apocalypse”. Vine’s Bible dictionary defines this word as “the communication of the knowledge of God to the soul.” This phrase is a deeply personal knowing of the God of the Universe. Paul is interceding on behalf of the Ephesians that they may know God in a fuller deeply, intimate, and personal way. However, this work is only done through the power of the Spirit. Bible commentator Matthew Henry says, “We have the revelation of the Spirit in the word: but will that avail us, if we have not the wisdom of the Spirit in the heart?”. It is only as the Spirit allows our hearts to be opened to His wisdom and through the work of the Spirit that life transformation happens.

3) Why is there such an emphasis on Christ being above everything in verses 21-22?
Paul clearly communicates Christ is above all in verses 21 and 22. He is above rulers, powers, titles, and is the head of the Church, His precious Bride. He is the ultimate authority over everything and every soul. Christ did what no one else could in setting the world right, which was broken when Adam and Eve sinned in the garden. Colossians 1:16 reminds us Christ was present at creation and all things were not only made through Him, but also continue to be sustained through Him. Paul goes on to emphasize Christ’s position as the head of the Church in Philippians 2:9 and Colossians 1:18. Paul is reminding the Ephesian believers that Christ is the head of this beautiful, timeless, global Body they belong to; this truth brings unity! He is reminding them this life is not an individualistic life, but one to be lived as a whole Body working together for the Kingdom under the authority of Christ. 

Everyday Application

1) Who is the “you” in these verses?
Paul wrote these verses to the body of believers in Ephesus, however, his words are just as much for the entire global body of believers today. In English, and a western culture mindset, it’s easy for us to read the words “you” or “your” and hear them from an individual perspective, which would be a pretty big mistake in the book of Ephesians. As we read these verses, and the book as a whole, it is important to read it through the lens of a collective body. Every believer is a part of each other. We are to live and walk and love together in unity as if we are one physical body. (Romans 12:5) Verses 22-23 remind us of this reality when Paul refers to the church as the body of Christ. “And He (God) subjected everything under His (Jesus) feet and appointed Him as head over everything for the church, which is His body, the fullness of the One who fills all thing in every way.

2) What is the Spirit of wisdom and revelation? (verse 17)
Paul isn’t asking God for wisdom and revelation for himself, rather, he is interceding on behalf of the Ephesians asking God to allow them to know Him in a personally intimate way. This should not be lost on us as believers today. We should find joy in interceding on behalf of our brothers and sisters in Christ, asking Him that they may “abound and increase more and more” (Matthew Henry) in their wisdom and revelation. In other words, we are to follow Paul’s example and beg God to reveal Himself to others in a deeply personal way as they spend time with Him. Wisdom, revelation, and knowledge don’t happen just because we ask on behalf of someone or a friend asks on our behalf, but the Spirit will use prayers of faith to prompt hearts to come to Him. We take Him up on this invitation as we choose to spend time in both the Word of God and in prayer as we sit quietly before the Lord. When we spend time investing in relationship with God, the Spirit of wisdom and revelation will change our lives! Sister are you willing to seek after God’s heart?

3) Why is there such an emphasis on Christ being above everything in verses 21-22?
Christ is the ultimate authority, holding lordship above all else. Paul reminds his Ephesian audience of this truth, but it is a truth we should cling to as well. Christ accomplished what was humanly impossible by paying the price we were incapable of paying, and restoring, the broken relationship to our Father God. To receive this reconciliation, we are to simply believe Him at His word, and receive the gift freely offered through Jesus’ death and resurrection. The truth found in these verses provides comfort regardless of where we find ourselves in life, whether our current season is a hill or a valley. There is absolutely nothing bigger than Christ! There is nothing He doesn’t rule over. While no promise is made of an easy life once we place our faith in Jesus, we are assured nothing we ever encounter will be bigger than Him. Nothing will ever catch Him off guard. He is prepared for it all, and the Good News is we know the end of the story is brimming with victory! He’s coming back, and when He does, all will finally be right. In a constantly changing world where we face death and disease, where injustice and inequality are rampant, and a pandemic has changed much of our life, I find myself clinging to the confidence that God wins the final victory. He is in control of everything! We need the reminder of the position of authority of Jesus. When we trust in Jesus, we have nothing to fear, because there is nothing too difficult, or impossible, for Him.

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

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 Calling 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.

Calling Day 3 For The Church

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Read His Words Before Ours!

Ephesians 1:15-23
1 Corinthians 12:12-27
John 14:25-26

Calling, Day 3

My Papa was a letter-writer.

In his lifetime, he wrote thousands of letters to people around the world, including many to his own family members. Papa claimed a corner of their kitchen counter as his letter-writing and Bible-studying station. His worn Bible sat on top of the yellow, lined notebook paper Gamma bought in bulk for him, and his highlighters and favorite pens were within reach at all times. I was scolded many-a-time for taking his pen from his station and not bringing it back.

When I left the home our family shared for college, the letters started and they didn’t stop. Papa went Home to Heaven almost four years ago, yet the letters keep coming, because every once in a while, I happen across an unopened letter.

Recently, as I was going through keepsake boxes at my parents’ house, I found such a letter. With a jump in my heart, I clutched it and imagined Papa writing it, his sprawling cursive shaky from Parkinsons’ and with the occasional German word mix-up.

But I didn’t open it.

Instead, I tucked it away for another day.
I couldn’t bring myself to open what could be my last message from Papa, despite the words of love and wisdom most likely filling the inside.

I imagine that same joy and excitement circulated when an early church received a letter from Paul. Paul did a lot of writing while imprisoned; this Journey Theme focuses on his letter to the church in Ephesus.

I also imagine, unlike me, they didn’t save their letter for another time. They delved right in, unaware this personal letter was inspired by the Holy Spirit and would become part of the Bible we read today.

Let’s dissect this prison prayer; for such a short prayer, it’s crammed with goodness!

Paul begins by explaining how thankful he is for the Ephesians’ faith in Jesus and love for all of the saints (ie, Christians), because it evidences their participation in God’s great work in the world. He shares how he has been praying for them with thankfulness both for them and their growth.

Paul prays with four main points:

  1. He’s praying they might know God
  2. He’s praying they’ll know and understand the hope of God’s calling
  3. He’s praying they’ll know God’s riches
  4. He’s praying they’ll know His power

In the Bible, knowing means far more than just possessing facts. Rather, it refers to an intimate, deep understanding and embrace of truth in our hearts, or spirits. Paul is praying for the Ephesians to fully know God, His calling, His riches, and His power in their spirits.

Furthermore, Paul is praying for the whole, global Church (including us!) to know Him in all of the facets of His character. For example, we may know Him as Savior, but not as Father, Friend, Guide, and Sustainer. Since we are made in His image, the more intimately we know Him, the more we will understand ourselves in light of Him.

How do we know God better?
Through enlightenment and revelation from the Holy Spirit as He opens the eyes of our “hearts” (again, meaning spirits or souls).

Second, Paul prays we’ll know the hope of God’s calling. In Greek, “church” is a combination of two words: “ek,” meaning out of, and “kaleo,” meaning to call.
Church literally meant “called out.”

We. Are. Called.

We’ve been called out of darkness and into His marvelous light! (1 Peter 2:9)

Paul is reminding the church in Ephesus, and the global Church,
we have great hope
because of by Whom we are called,
what we are called to do,
and because this world is not our final resting place.

Third, Paul fervently prays we’ll know God’s riches, but get this, he’s talking about US! WE are God’s riches! Just as man’s wealth lies with his treasure, God’s wealth is found in us, His treasures.

God deals with us on the basis of our future. We see throughout Scripture how He calls people what they will become, not what they are at the time (as when he called Gideon a valiant warrior while he was still cowering in fear). God’s riches lie in who we will be when we are glorified with God.

Paul is reminding the Church
we have great value in God’s eyes and much to bring to the Kingdom!

Lastly, Paul prays we will know the great power found in God; this power was fully displayed when Jesus was resurrected from the grave. With that same power, God saved us from the grave and has breathed new life into us.

Immeasurable
Greatness
Of His
Power
Toward us who believe, according to the
Mighty working
Of His
Strength.
(Ephesians 1:19)

Those are some big, descriptive words right there!

God is mighty! He has all power! And we have access to that power because we know Him!

Paul ends this prayer by reminding us Jesus Christ, KING Jesus, has ALL power and all authority! He is the head; we are His body!

So, Church (that’s us, sisters), grab onto our love-letter from God (the Bible), and flip to the letter Paul wrote to the church in Ephesus (and ultimately, the Church as a whole).

Allow his prayer to wash over you,
understanding Paul was praying
we would know the Almighty intimately,
we would be filled with the hope of our calling,
we would remember our value in the Kingdom,
and we would grasp His great power, which we also possess through Jesus Christ!

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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 Calling Week One! Don’t miss out on the discussion below – we’d love to hear your thoughts!

Looking for other journeys from this theme?
Here’s a link to all past studies in Calling!

Pause IV Day 13 Limitless

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Pause IV, Day 13

In the middle of my day, my conflict, my relationships, my marriage, my friendships, my worry, my mess, my inabilities, my weakness, it becomes apparent how limited I am.

How striking is the contrast Habakkuk paints of our God!

As you dig into today’s passage and write it down, word-for-word, be intentional to slow your heart. Breathe deeply. This is the Word of the Lord to your heart for your everyday!

There is no power beyond God’s abilities to apprehend and overcome. There is no wisdom wiser than His. No authority above His. Nothing escapes His sight, His understanding, or His knowledge in how to bring about victory in it.

He is the Lord.
He is limitless.
How does this affect your view of your own messy everyday and your weaknesses?

For more sweet passages describing God’s ultimate power and authority over all things, check out Psalm 18 and Romans 8!

Rest assured, there is no distance the Lord is not willing to go to rescue your heart!

Today's Invitation

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 Habakkuk 3:7-15 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 limitless power and authority of our God! He is near, He is not far. He sees all, and He will most assuredly bring justice, and He will defend and guard His own people who call upon Him for salvation. Which verse stands out to you as being especially for your heart as a message from God?

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! 

Share your thoughts from today’s Journey Study!
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Habakkuk 3:7-15

7 I see the tents of Cushan in distress;
the tent curtains of the land of Midian tremble.
8 Are you angry at the rivers, Lord?
Is your wrath against the rivers?
Or is your fury against the sea
when you ride on your horses,
your victorious chariot?
9 You took the sheath from your bow;
the arrows are ready to be used with an oath. Selah
You split the earth with rivers.
10 The mountains see you and shudder;
a downpour of water sweeps by.
The deep roars with its voice
and lifts its waves high.
11 Sun and moon stand still in their lofty residence,
at the flash of your flying arrows,
at the brightness of your shining spear.
12 You march across the earth with indignation;
you trample down the nations in wrath.
13 You come out to save your people,
to save your anointed.
You crush the leader of the house of the wicked
and strip him from foot to neck. Selah
14 You pierce his head
with his own spears;
his warriors storm out to scatter us,
gloating as if ready to secretly devour the weak.
15 You tread the sea with your horses,
stirring up the vast water.

How Does “Pause” Work?
1. Each day, Monday through Friday, for 3 weeks, we will provide you with an invitation to get away with the Savior. Each one is designed for you to engage with the Almighty in a deeper way and perhaps in a new way than you have been recently.

2. Having a journal is a must! You’ll want to take notes as you walk this special Journey of Pause.

3. Each week focuses on one or two passage of Scripture and we walk with you as you study and flesh these out for yourself. As you write your thoughts, read His Word, and pray, questions might come up. That’s Perfect! Ask a trusted fellow believer, a pastor, or send us an email as you work through them!

4. Jumping in at the middle? No problem! Here is the entire Journey Theme.

5. Connect with others on Facebook by visiting our GT Community Group!

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 Pause IV Week Three!
Don’t miss out on the discussion below – we’d love to hear your thoughts!

Looking for other journeys from this theme? Here’s a link to all past studies
in Pause IV!

Pause IV Day 11 Tremble

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Pause IV, Day 11

“Oh Lord”, Habbakuk knelt and wept, hands outspread.
“I have heard You answer me, and I am left in awe, trembling at the majesty of Your justice and righteousness flowing together in ways I never would have imagined. I never dreamt Your ways were so far beyond mine; they take my breath away. Who am I to question You?!” (Habakkuk 3:2, paraphrased)

Habakkuk brought his everything to the Lord God, who listened with kind graciousness.
The Lord walked beside Habakkuk as He helped him understand the great depths of God’s righteousness and justice.

Now, we are left with Habakkuk’s response to God.
And it should take our breath away as he helps us see God more clearly.

He is in awe of God’s work that far surpasses any man-made design.
Habakkuk is left trembling at the work God will do in His people.

He brings his humble amen, meaning, “make it so”.
“Revive your work…make it known.”  (verse 2)

He did not understand it all, especially the why and the how, but what he did know was enough to make him stand in trembling awe.

In the midst of his swirling questions, Habakkuk takes a full one-third of his prophetic book to express the majestic glories of the Lord God who deserves our awe-filled trembling.

Habakkuk acknowledges the Lord’s justice and all-surpassing wisdom, power, and authority, then bows his heart and flings himself and his people on the gracious mercy of the Almighty God. Our question is, will we do the same?

Today's Invitation

1) Read Habakkuk 3:1-15, then circle back and re-read verses 1-2 a few times through.
Answer these 3 questions in your journal:
a) What do these verses tell me about God and His character?
b) What do these verses tell me about others and the world around me?
c) What do these verses tell me about me and my heart?

2) Close your time by praying for these truths to take root in your heart and for the Holy Spirit to remind you and teach you more about these things today. Be sure to write out any questions you have as you read! If you’d like to send your questions to us, we’d love to study with you!

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Habakkuk 3:1-15

A prayer of the prophet Habakkuk. According to Shigionoth.

2 Lord, I have heard the report about you;
Lord, I stand in awe of your deeds.
Revive your work in these years;
make it known in these years.
In your wrath remember mercy!

3 God comes from Teman,
the Holy One from Mount Paran. Selah
His splendor covers the heavens,
and the earth is full of his praise.
4 His brilliance is like light;
rays are flashing from his hand.
This is where his power is hidden.
5 Plague goes before him,
and pestilence follows in his steps.
6 He stands and shakes the earth;
he looks and startles the nations.
The age-old mountains break apart;
the ancient hills sink down.
His pathways are ancient.
7 I see the tents of Cushan in distress;
the tent curtains of the land of Midian tremble.
8 Are you angry at the rivers, Lord?
Is your wrath against the rivers?
Or is your fury against the sea
when you ride on your horses,
your victorious chariot?
9 You took the sheath from your bow;
the arrows are ready to be used with an oath. Selah
You split the earth with rivers.
10 The mountains see you and shudder;
a downpour of water sweeps by.
The deep roars with its voice
and lifts its waves high.
11 Sun and moon stand still in their lofty residence,
at the flash of your flying arrows,
at the brightness of your shining spear.
12 You march across the earth with indignation;
you trample down the nations in wrath.
13 You come out to save your people,
to save your anointed.
You crush the leader of the house of the wicked
and strip him from foot to neck. Selah
14 You pierce his head
with his own spears;
his warriors storm out to scatter us,
gloating as if ready to secretly devour the weak.
15 You tread the sea with your horses,
stirring up the vast water.

How Does “Pause” Work?
1. Each day, Monday through Friday, for 3 weeks, we will provide you with an invitation to get away with the Savior. Each one is designed for you to engage with the Almighty in a deeper way and perhaps in a new way than you have been recently.

2. Having a journal is a must! You’ll want to take notes as you walk this special Journey of Pause.

3. Each week focuses on one or two passage of Scripture and we walk with you as you study and flesh these out for yourself. As you write your thoughts, read His Word, and pray, questions might come up. That’s Perfect! Ask a trusted fellow believer, a pastor, or send us an email as you work through them!

4. Jumping in at the middle? No problem! Here is the entire Journey Theme.

5. Connect with others on Facebook by visiting our GT Community Group!

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 Pause IV Week Three!
Don’t miss out on the discussion below – we’d love to hear your thoughts!

Looking for other journeys from this theme? Here’s a link to all past studies
in Pause IV!