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Surrender Day 14 The One We Seek: Digging Deeper

February 9, 2023 by Melodye Reeves Leave a Comment

Surrender Day 14 The One We Seek: Digging Deeper

Melodye Reeves

February 9, 2023

Christ,Discipleship,Faith,Follow,Sacrifice

Discover the original intent of Scripture. Make good application to our everyday lives.
Become equipped to correctly handle the Word of Truth!

This DD Connects With "The One We Seek"
Why Dig Deeper?

Read His Words Before Ours!

Luke 14:25-27

25 Now great crowds were traveling with Him. So He turned and said to them, 26 “If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his own father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, and even his own life—he cannot be My disciple. 27 Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple.”
Read More Of His Words

The Original Intent

1) To whom was Jesus speaking in verse 25, and why is this important to understand?

Verse 25 tells us “great crowds were traveling with Him.” It is important to note that Jesus’ teachings were not only directed to His disciples in this scene, but widely to the large crowds who were following along with Jesus. Crowds were often found “with” Jesus, even pressing in on Him at times. (Matthew 4:23-25)

People followed Jesus for all sorts of reasons: His miracles (John 2:23-25), because they were hungry (John 6:24-27), to accuse Him (John 6:61-64), and some because they genuinely believed Him (Luke 5:27-32).

As Jesus made His way to Jerusalem He understood His brutal death lay ahead. (Luke 13:33) His mission of rescuing those who would trust Him, carried a heavy price, His life. He wanted those around Him to understand there would also be a cost to believing Him and following Him, surrender. Surrender required submission to His teachings regarding the only way to God being through Himself.

Though He knew many would reject Him, Jesus responded with compassion by weeping over those lost in their sin. (Luke 19:41) He loved the crowds because He loves the individual people who create the crowds. He always saw them through His merciful eyes, and He always desired to draw them into a relationship with Himself. (Luke 13:34)

The Everyday Application

1) To whom was Jesus speaking in verse 25, and why is this important to understand?

The crowds following Jesus were much like fan-seeking crowds today. Some may read the Bible or attend religious meetings as skeptics, waiting to pounce on a perceived contradiction. Frankly, the prospect of them genuinely believing Jesus is quite low without a heart shift to begin authentically exploring the claims of Christ.

Other explorers of the Christian faith are less skeptical, seeing themselves as curious onlookers. They aren’t sure Jesus actually is who He says He is, but they sure would love to receive God’s blessings as long as it doesn’t cost them anything.

They listen closely for the ‘requirements’ Jesus presents. They watch even more closely those who have chosen to follow and wonder: Is this real? Are these people genuinely believing in Jesus? Is it worth it?

Eventually, many of these find themselves unwilling to make such a long-term pledge to Jesus Himself. Some encounter hypocrites who deter them or witness the hardship involved for those who truly follow Jesus. For many, the passages of Scripture announcing sacrifice and obedience are repulsive.

Though they may acknowledge a deep longing to be satisfied, they lack faith to see Jesus as the Supreme Satisfier. They miss the Counselor and Comforter found in the Holy Spirit whom Jesus promises for all who genuinely trust Him. This Helper indwells and empowers the believer to follow Him into the great unknown of the surrendered life! (John 16:7-13)

Sweet Sister, joining Jesus is a surrender to His purposes while knowing He is with us. It’s a step toward His wisdom and away from selfish desires. For many in the crowd, this call to relinquish control is a stumbling block, a hurdle, even foolishness. (1 Corinthians 1:22-24) In Proverbs 8:32-36 we see the beauty of answering the call to wisdom; it’s Jesus Himself.

The Original Intent

2) Most believe the Bible tells us to love everyone, including our enemies. So how are we to understand Jesus’ instruction in verse 26  to “hate” our families?

Making sense of whole passages is as valuable as translating specific words and interpreting sentences and verses. Like expanding concentric circles, we begin understanding the Bible best when first study the context of words within sentences within passages within books within the testaments within the whole Bible. (Got Questions)

This pattern of discovery is effective because the Bible is more than an instructional history book. The unique priority of the Bible is its one message about Christ which is woven through every page. Whatever the right answer is regarding our question around Jesus’ words to hating our families, we must never misinterpret who Jesus IS. Herein lies the crux of discovering the original intent of any passage.

Since Jesus is the One who perfectly fulfilled the greatest commandment to love our neighbor as ourselves (Mark 12:28-34), most certainly Jesus is not commanding us to do something out of harmony with what God has revealed. He is the One who perfectly fulfilled (Romans 5:6-8) the call to love our enemies (Matthew 5:43-48).

Therefore, we must dig deeper to define and interpret “hate”. Since Jesus affirms the 5th commandment which instructs us to honor parents (Mark 7:9-13), He is not commanding something different to the crowd (Luke 14:25). What He is describing is the cost of ultimate allegiance to Him.

The depth of allegiance to Jesus, when placed side by side with other loyalties, will look like the stark difference between love and hate. The New Living Translation of the Bible (NLT) offers a helpful interpretation. “If you want to be My disciple, you must, by comparison, hate everyone else—your father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even your own life.”

In the Hebrew Scriptures, the contrast between “love” and “hatred” was used to communicate preference or favorites. Exploring the translations of Deuteronomy 21:15-17 will shed some light on Jesus’ meaning in this passage. (blueletterbible.org)

The Everyday Application

2) Most believe the Bible tells us to love everyone, including our enemies. So how are we to understand Jesus’ instruction in verse 26  to “hate” our families?

Oh friend, do you cringe at this verse? It sounds so unlike the Jesus we thought we knew or that we’ve come to know! But we must not give in to doubt or despair, thinking He must not be as good as we thought He was.

While it’s true that following Jesus is a remarkable commitment, He has promised to provide for us everything we need to make the sacrifices He calls us to make. And what we need most is His grace. Grace to understand that Jesus is not asking the crowd to prove their love for Him by hating their families.

We know this because, as a God of love, His very reason for coming was to teach us how to receive and give love. (1 John 3:15-18, 1 John 4:7-11) Jesus calls us to is a love for Him that is so deep, all other loves pale in comparison.

The more I study this passage, the more I realize this wasn’t an indictment on those who loved their families. It was a shocking statement to those who loved themselves most!

In the previous verses, Jesus had shared a parable about people who tried to justify themselves. (Luke 14:16-23) In pursuit of their own plan, they missed the banquet and gave poor excuses. To follow Jesus is to hold very loosely the people we love and the plans we make, so we can run quickly to Him when He calls us!

The Original Intent

3) How does someone “bear his own cross”?  (verse 27)

To understand this phrase, we must learn the meaning of the cross in the time and culture of Jesus. Remember, He had not yet died on the cross. To the first hearers, the cross only represented a gruesome symbol of death.

Jesus’ audience knew all too well how the Romans reserved crucifixion for the worst criminals. It was a form of humiliation that led to a long and excruciating death. Here was Jesus telling them the cost of following Him equated this kind of suffering! It seems clear that Jesus intentionally uses a horrific symbol to get the crowd’s attention.

Following Jesus could cost them their very lives. (verse 26) Shocking words coming from someone who constantly drew a crowd. Clearly, these are not the words of a leader desiring to gain popularity.

Because Jesus was always full of grace AND truth (John 1:14), He simply couldn’t soften a hard truth just to keep followers. When Jesus’ ministry went from feeding crowds (John 6:5-14) to talking about eating His flesh (John 6:53-58), He lost some people! I guess so, right?! This kind of teaching was too much for many who had followed Him for miracles and blessings. (John 6:66)

His following-fan-crowds eventually turned into crowds of angry people calling for His death. Some disciples became afraid as they began realizing Jesus’ arrest and death could bring suffering for them. (Matthew 26:47-55) One of His closest friends denied him (Luke 22:54-61) and several went into hiding (John 20:19). The calling to become a follower of Jesus was one that should be considered only after becoming willing to accept a possible reality of losing your own life – the cross kind of death. (Pause VI)

The Everyday Application

3) How does someone “bear his own cross”?  (verse 27)

A cross symbol has lost much of its original meaning in today’s culture, as it has become many things—from a religious icon to a fashion element. Even though for many it is a symbol of faith, particularly the Christian faith, it still doesn’t always reflect the horrors of crucifixion and what a cross meant for those who watched loved ones die there.

To understand the teaching of Jesus, especially these difficult verses, we must be willing to search the Scripture and find Him. Friend, I am sure of one thing: Jesus wasn’t calling us to walk around with a self-pitying demeanor while bemoaning our hard life.

Discomfort, trial, and suffering color every human experience in one degree or another, but the distinction here is that Jesus is calling His genuine followers to a death.

Death of our hopes and dreams and possessions and people; yes, even our own lives if necessary. These are all to be held with open hands accompanied by a humble prayer of trusting surrender.

Jesus’ promise isn’t a guarantee of ease; it’s much better than that. Sister, the promise is Jesus’ presence WITH us! (Matthew 28:18-20) Yes, following Jesus may cost us, but not following Him costs us so much more.

In all my sorrows, Jesus is better!! Make my heart believe!
In every victory, Jesus is better!! Make my heart believe!
Than any comfort, Jesus is better!! Make my heart believe!
More than all riches, Jesus is better!! Make my heart believe!
Our souls declaring: Jesus is better!! Make my heart believe!
Our song eternal: Jesus is better!! Make my heart believe!
Jesus Is Better by Austin Stone Worship

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cost,death,gain,reward,sacrifice,surrender
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Journey Study

We are sinners who have not remained faithful to God, yet His love for us remains steadfast. While Gomer’s freedom cost Hosea a monetary sacrifice, Jesus offered Himself as the sacrifice to restore our spiritual freedom and restore our relationship with God. (Romans 8:1-4)
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Jan 23 - Feb 10, 2023 - Journey Theme #113

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Posted in: Christ, Discipleship, Faith, Follow, Sacrifice Tagged: cost, death, gain, reward, sacrifice, surrender

If Day 12 Free Ride: Digging Deeper

July 27, 2021 by Shannon Vicker Leave a Comment

If Day 12 Free Ride: Digging Deeper

Shannon Vicker

July 27, 2021

Christ,Digging Deeper,Follow,Fullness,Gift,God,Jesus,Kingdom,Obedience,Salvation,Treasure,Truth

Discover the original intent of Scripture. Make good application to our everyday lives.
Become equipped to correctly handle the Word of Truth!

This DD Connects With "Free Ride"
Why Dig Deeper?

Read His Words Before Ours!

Matthew 13:44-46

44 “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure, buried in a field, that a man found and reburied. Then in his joy he goes and sells everything he has and buys that field.

45 “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls. 46 When he found one priceless pearl, he went and sold everything he had and bought it.
Read More Of His Words

The Original Intent

1) Why was the man willing to sell everything for this treasure he found? (verse 44)

Though Jesus’ parable doesn’t specifically describe what the man found in the field, we know he found it to be of extreme value. This wasn’t something he intentionally went looking for, rather, he happened to stumble upon his grand discovery.

Once he found it, he knew its high worth and was willing to bury it again in the field, keeping it hidden and protected, while he went to sell everything he had in order to purchase the field. In this way, he could be certain the treasure he had found would be his forever.

The Everyday Application

1) Why was the man willing to sell everything for this treasure he found? (verse 44)

The man in Jesus’ story found a treasure he knew was more valuable than anything he owned or could ever own. It was so valuable, in fact, he was willing to part with everything else in his life in order to gain this single treasure. Jesus intended His hearers to understand the Treasure to be Himself as the fullness of God.

We have access to Him through His sacrifice where He paid the death penalty we deserve because of our sin so we might be reconciled back to Him. This Treasure had been hidden away in the Old Testament for centuries. Jesus wanted those listening to understand they could “dig” into the “field” of the former prophecies and historical narrative and even the Law in order to find the True Treasure.

When we discover Jesus and the Truth of the Scriptures, we are urged to surrender all we have for the vast richness of Christ! (Philippians 3:7-8) Of believers in Jesus, Matthew Henry writes, “upon gospel terms, buy this field; they make it their own, for the sake of the unseen treasure in it. It is Christ in the gospel that we are to have an eye to.” 

When we understand Truth, recognizing its supreme value, we must make it our own. However, unlike the man who bought the field, our treasure of Christ is not meant to keep to ourselves, but instead share it with the world!

The Original Intent

2) Who is the merchant? (verse 45)

An experienced pearl merchant knew exactly what to look for, and he was intent on finding the “perfect pearl”. His life’s work was to know what a perfect pearl looked like, and then pursue that.

Pearl merchants knew the worth of each pearl they encountered, and they knew the price to pay for it.

Unlike the man who wasn’t expecting to find a treasure in a field, this merchant is actively seeking out the ultimate pearl. On finding it, he knew he had found a treasure worth a lavish price tag. He was willing to sell all he had in order to own the priceless pearl.

The Everyday Application

2) Who is the merchant? (verse 45)

This merchant knew exactly which pearl he was pursuing and would stop at nothing to obtain it for himself. Of this pearl, Matthew Henry writes, “a Jewel of inestimable value, which will make those who have it rich, truly rich, rich toward God; in having him, we have enough to make us happy here and forever.”

As believers, we understand that in discovering Jesus and the truth of who He is, we have more than enough. Possessions and money are worthless in comparison to having the Treasure of God.

There will never be anything more valuable to gain or pursue. Those who have pursued many things, seeking satisfaction, and finally finding Christ are the merchant from Jesus’ story; these people have found the Pearl of Jesus and have understood its supreme value. We don’t need to chase anything else.

The Original Intent

3) What can be learned from these two parables?

Jesus often taught in parables, or stories, throughout His earthly ministry. In these stories, Jesus used common things His audience would easily relate with in order to bridge to deeper spiritual truths.

In this passage, Jesus wanted His audience to understand the inestimable Treasure He was about to offer them by dying in their place and paying the ultimate price for their sin. He also wanted them to understand the extreme cost of following Him once they understood the true value of embracing Him as Savior.

While those listening to these parables did not fully understand them in the moment, His disciples came to understand them after His death and resurrection. They knew that following and obeying Jesus would cost them greatly; many paid with their lives.

The Everyday Application

3) What can be learned from these two parables?

Both the treasure in the field and the pearl cost a great deal to obtain. Jesus came as God in human flesh to pay the ultimate price for sin with His life that we might be set free from sin and shame. In order for us to spend eternity with God, this price must be paid, because God is just and righteous.

This payment cost God His only Son. While there is nothing we can “do” to “purchase” this gift of salvation, there is a cost involved in following Jesus. (Luke 14:26-33) When we understand who Jesus is, we realize the cost is worth it. We become like the merchant and the man who bought the field when we realize the value of the Treasure of God and are willing to pay the cost.

Just as these men were willing to part with everything in order to have their treasure, we too must be willing to part with everything in order to follow Christ. It isn’t going to be easy, and we may often question the cost, but as we become more like Jesus we will never regret the choice to pay the price and follow Him in full surrender!

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cost,embrace,Free Ride,just,perfect,Priceless,righteous,Savior,value
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Journey Study

Narrow means there will be a cost, and the final return on investment is Heaven.

But what if…
following Jesus cost us nothing?

We willingly pay out for what we view as valuable. If we aren’t willing to pay, we deem the value as worthless.
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July 12 - July 30, 2021 - Journey Theme #92

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Posted in: Christ, Digging Deeper, Follow, Fullness, Gift, God, Jesus, Kingdom, Obedience, Salvation, Treasure, Truth Tagged: cost, embrace, Free Ride, just, perfect, Priceless, righteous, Savior, value

If Day 11 Free Ride

July 26, 2021 by Sara Cissell Leave a Comment

If Day 11 Free Ride

Sara Cissell

July 26, 2021

Follow,Gift,Holy Spirit,Jesus,Joy,Kingdom,Love,Peace,Redemption,Relationship,Sacrifice,Seeking,Significance,Trust

Read His Words Before Ours!

Matthew 13:44-46
Romans 5:1-5
Matthew 6:25-34
James 1:2-4

“Yes, but it’s going to cost you.”

Have you heard a version of this phrase, if not those exact words? 

I have. Sometimes it’s said with the humor of a friend; other times, it has been spoken with all seriousness. 

Cost. 
We understand it from a monetary sense pretty easily. Do I have the money needed to buy this? How much do I need or want said item, and what am I willing to do to ensure I can make the payment? 

But do we grasp the concept of cost beyond dollar signs? 
Do we recognize cost is involved in every decision we make? 
Beyond that, do we recognize we are changed by every decision we make? 

In the business world, return on investment, otherwise known as ROI, is a recurrent phrase. Will an investment provide a return that is worth the cost of the investment?

Will our investment of following Jesus provide a valuable return?

Suppose following Jesus cost us nothing?

Cost is significant. 
Upon reflection, I honestly cannot think of a time when cost was not connected to change in my character or life.  Even when I’ve received a free gift, I am aware of the significant cost to the giver. 
Cost is always involved. 

With these thoughts swirling through my mind, I sat down to write this study.

What if following Jesus cost us nothing?            

If my brain were a literal computer, I would be receiving an error message. In fact, my mind is unable to compute that sentence, and I think of the movie Mean Girls, in which a character says, “The limit does not exist” during math class. 

We’re either following Jesus, or we’re leading ourselves.
We’re seeking His kingdom, or we’re building our own. 
We’re either counting the cost to follow Him, or we’re not investing. 

Adam and Eve chose to invest in the words of the serpent and we are still reaping the returns on their investment. From the very beginning of time, cost has been at play.
Our relationships with Jesus are no different.            

The Bible says a difficult road and narrow gate are the way to heaven. Narrow means lots of decisions are involved in staying the course. Narrow means potentially being misunderstood by those walking the broad paths. Narrow means uncomfortable seasons and various invitations for growth. 

Narrow means there will be a cost,
and the final return on investment is Heaven.

But what if…
following Jesus cost us nothing?

We willingly pay out for what we view as valuable.
If we aren’t willing to pay, we deem the value as worthless. 

Eternity with Jesus is a pretty significant return on investment, and motivates many people to choose to trust Him. However, Heaven is not the only return we receive when we truly follow the Lord. 

Galatians 5:22-24 highlights the fruit of the Spirit, and outlines the cost of their cultivation. When we “crucify the flesh with its passions and desires,” we allow the Spirit to move within us and He pours out love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

The brutal language describing the cost of following Jesus boldly declares to us that holiness, not happiness, is the aim of the Christian life. The way of change, the way of transformation, the narrow way of daily putting to death the sin nature wrapped around our spirits since Adam and Eve’s initial investment . . . this is the way of great cost.

We gladly pay the cost because the benefit far outweighs the price tag of surrendering self to the Savior who gave Himself wholly for us, choosing to hold nothing back. (2 Corinthians 4:17)

Whole surrender is the way of Jesus, who sacrificed everything from His human body to His very existence in community with the Father. 

This is the way of Jesus-followers, who are called to walk in His footsteps by picking up our own crosses.

Oh yes, the cost is great.
But the reward, “the joy set before [us],” Jesus assures us, is far greater.

For in return for Jesus’ sacrifice, we receive redemption, the knitting back together of our spirits once torn apart by the claws of our sinful choices.

In return for our costly sacrifice, we become more like Him, the One who sacrificed all for our redemption.

Thus, not only do we know Him more deeply, but we reflect Him more clearly to the searching world around us.

“Come,” our lives say, “Here is the One who can breathe healing and life into your shattered soul.” 

Finally, in Ephesians 6:10-18, we learn how God equips and sustains us through the attacks we will experience during our days on earth. The Lord does not leave us alone until we get to heaven. He is faithfully with us, teaching us how to navigate this lifetime. Again, the benefit of never being alone or ill-equipped adds to the value of following Jesus with our whole lives. 

We have the Holy Spirit dwelling within us, we have the Word of God to read and learn, and we have the Heavenly Father loving us deeply. The Lord’s love is infinite and His mercies are new every morning. 

While the sacrifices and challenges involved in following Jesus are quite costly, the ROIs of following Christ are infinite. I will gladly invest to gain Christ and heaven for eternity, and to point others to His open arms during my time on earth. 

I am so very grateful that following Christ costs me something.
This is a gift I can never repay!

Tags :
Connected,cost,eternity,free,Fruit,If,Ride,Savior,surrendering,What iF
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Recent Journeys

Steadfast Day 2 Of Epic Importance: Digging Deeper
March 28, 2023
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Digging Deeper

When we understand Truth, recognizing its supreme value, we must make it our own. However, unlike the man who bought the field, our treasure of Christ is not meant to keep to ourselves, but instead share it with the world!
Dig Deeper!

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!
July 12 - July 30, 2021 - Journey Theme #92

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
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Posted in: Follow, Gift, Holy Spirit, Jesus, Joy, Kingdom, Love, Peace, Redemption, Relationship, Sacrifice, Seeking, Significance, Trust Tagged: Connected, cost, eternity, free, Fruit, If, Ride, Savior, surrendering, What iF

The GT Weekend! ~ Sketched IX Week 1

June 27, 2021 by Erin O'Neal 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) Monday’s Journey ended with this thought about Jesus, “He is everything. He is power, spoken and enacted. He is humility and authority. He is Rescuer and Healer. He is [our] Final Sacrifice and Restorer. He is the Messiah, the Son of the Living God.” Peter’s whole life was changed and shaped by this God-Man. Peter proclaimed Jesus as the Messiah until the day of his death. How would it change your life if you really believed, not just with your mind, but also with your heart and actions that Jesus Christ is EVERYTHING you need? He is your rescuer and your healer. He is the Final Sacrifice and Restorer for you. How would you live differently if you fully trusted Him? Write down something in your life that needs to be healed or restored. Maybe it is a broken friendship or familial relationship. Maybe it is a health issue or financial struggle. Commit to praying faithfully and steadfastly for Jesus Christ’s redemptive healing in that area of your life. Acknowledge that healing and restoration, at times, look differently than we expect or take longer than we would like, and watch eagerly for God’s rescuing hand to move in your life.

2) On Wednesday we considered what it must have been like for Peter to count the cost of following Jesus. Peter didn’t have the benefit of knowing the whole story as he followed Jesus. He had to wrestle with questions and partially-revealed wisdom. Even when he thought he had it all figured out, Jesus corrected him in the most stunning way. Maybe Peter thought to himself, “Though it would cost me everything, even my very life and all the pleasures and materials I had once loved, I was to crucify those daily, torturously even, and be left in the wake of the life of Yahweh so I could follow Him freely without any hindrance.” What does it cost you to follow Jesus? What pleasures and desires have you put to death to obey His call on your life? How have you seen Him work in your life as a result of your faithful obedience? Prayerfully write down your story of God’s blessing on your life. Consider sharing your story with another believer, friend, or neighbor. You may even consider stepping out in boldness and sharing your story on social media or in some other public way to declare the goodness of God!

3) It’s hard for us to live in the space of “almost, but not yet.” Whether it’s waiting with excited anticipation or waiting with dread of the unknown, “almost, but not yet” is a place of intensity. Peter experienced the shattered discouragement of attempting to return to a life that no longer “fit” after following Jesus for three years. Fishing wasn’t his thing anymore, but he didn’t know what else to do after Jesus’ crucifixion, and even His resurrection. It wasn’t until Peter was filled with the power of the Holy Spirit after Jesus ascended back to Heaven, that his “almost, but not yet” was finally over and he moved into purpose and direction. Jesus’ power alive inside of Peter made all the difference, which is equally true for all of us. Consider specific aspects of your life that are caught in frustration. We love to buy into the deception that we can make these better by either ignoring them or manipulating circumstances around to move us forward. God’s word prompts a different response, prayer. (Ephesians 6:18) Just as Peter was empty and struggling until the Spirit of God filled him, take your empty and frustrating places to the Lord in prayerful surrender. Read His word as you pray, asking Him to make you new and bring hope to your spaces of “almost, but not yet.”

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 Galatians 2:20-21 back to the Lord and
let His Spirit speak to you through it!

I have been crucified with Christ, and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died for nothing.


Prayer Journal
Oh Lord, our God, You are greater than we could ever imagine. You are everything we need for life and flourishing. I confess I often lose sight of Your goodness in my times of questioning. Just like Peter, I have a limited view of Your plan. I struggle to see how the great cost to follow You is worth every sacrifice. I forget the power that the Holy Spirit brings into my life, empowering me to trust and to obey. Thank You for Your steadfast love and its newness every morning. Thank You for stooping down and meeting me where I am, and for showing me the goodness of Your ways. I know, despite my own failings, I can find rest for my soul for “[Your] yoke is easy, and [Your] burden is light.” (Matthew 11:30) I ask for mercy as I, and the sisters joining with me in prayer, go about our daily lives. May we see Your power on display as You answer prayers and bring healing to the brokenness in our lives. I ask for comfort and strength as we take small steps of steadfast obedience to Your call on our lives. 

Worship Through Community

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

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

Worship Through Prayer

Worship Through Music

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Posted in: Follow, God, Grace, GT Weekend, Healing, Holy Spirit, Jesus, Mercy, Obedience, Prayer, Rescue, Sacrifice, Sketched Tagged: Almost, cost, faithful, Faithfully, goodness, learning, Living God, Messiah, Not Yet

Sketched IX Day 3 A New Work

June 23, 2021 by Rebecca Adams Leave a Comment

Read His Words Before Ours!

Luke 5:1-11
Matthew 17:1-13
Isaiah 42:1-4
Galatians 2:18-21

Sketched IX, Day 3

It’s been nearly a week since Jesus taught us in detail about the cost of following Him, but the words still roll in my head, keeping me awake at night and popping up unbidden as we move through crowds ministering to them.

“Take up your cross and follow Me.” (Mark 8:34)

Death.
That’s all I can think about.

A cross signifies one thing, cruel death.
There is no way to escape torture when a cross is involved.
None.

Cross victims press against nail-pierced feet to slide their raw back upwards against shredded wood attempting to catch a breath as their wrists are nailed on either side, outstretched in agony. Eventually, exhaustion overtakes the condemned man and their futile exercise for oxygen is over, resulting in suffocation. It’s cruel, but it is the price to pay for those who dare break Roman law. I’ve seen it before, the crucifixion parade outside the city as thieves and murderers are led away for gruesome justice. It’s bloody and agonizing, the screams of men as naked flesh is grotesquely pierced, but it is effective in making its point: don’t run against Rome.

I shook my head again, attempting to clear the horrific scenes playing out in my mind. I just don’t understand! Why did Jesus tie these two ideas together, following Him and taking up a cross. It makes no sense! To follow, I must be alive. So, why must I also die? And not simply die, but die a cruel death.

Why does following Him cost so much?!

The turmoil inside me continues churning, never lessening, and I grab a fistful of olive branches in my frustration as I take one more step forward up the narrow, well-worn path on the side of Mount Tabor.

“Hey! Come on, Peter!” James’ indignant voice complains behind me as the olive branch swipes his face. “What’s wrong with you lately, man?”

I glance back, ruefully apologizing for the errant branch thrashing. Does James understand? I lift my eyes forward to catch John following closely to Jesus on the path ahead; the two are conversing, and then I hear John’s laughter ripple out. I grin in spite of my war inside, as John’s laughter invites everyone into its embrace. I can’t stop myself from wondering, does John understand? I furrow my brow and increase my pace, ignoring James’ question. Chest heaving and brow sweating, I catch up to John and Jesus at Tabor’s summit. A quip about my meaty muscles weighing me down compared to John’s lean, young frame is on my lips, but it dies instantly as I follow John’s aghast gaze.

Jesus! Jesus! He’s…

Suddenly, the brilliance of light envelopes everything in sight. The radiance is utterly beyond description as Jesus’ face shines like He swallowed the sun, His ordinary garments now aglow with uncanny light. James gasps and I follow his finger, seeing the unbelievable!

Moses and Elijah are here as well! I may not have everything figured out, but as Moses representing Law and Elijah representing Prophets stand here with Jesus, it’s all becoming clear! They are all the same! Law, Prophet, and Jesus!

Bursting with my revelation, I run unhindered towards the three men bathed in light. “Jesus! Jesus!” I shout. “Lord! It’s so good for us to be here! I’ve got it figured out! We will build three tents for you all and honor you all equally!” (Matthew 17:3-4, paraphrase)

Instantly, a thick, heavy cloud overshadows all of us, striking deep fear into our hearts. Moses and Elijah vanish. Terror-stricken, James, John, and myself are rendered immovable and speechless as a voice boomed, “This is my Son, the Chosen One, listen to Him.” (Luke 9:35)

Cowering and mute, the three of us fall face down in the heart-stopping glory of Yahweh’s voice. Then, as suddenly as it appeared, the cloud of glory vanished, replaced by natural Judean sunlight that makes me sweat again. Stuttering as I examine the common dirt clinging to Jesus’ feet and toenails before me, I realize I haven’t been breathing and gulp in air as Jesus reaches down to touch my shoulder. His voice, astounding in its common, ordinary sound, tenderly speaks, “Get up; don’t be afraid.” (Matthew 17:7)

With lightning-fast clarity, Jesus’ words prompt a memory of the very first time I followed Him. He had looked at me then too, my nets bursting with an enormous catch of fish flopping everywhere. Crowds had gathered and men were agape at the plunder I’d caught, but Jesus had His eyes fixed on mine, “Don’t be afraid. From now on you will be catching people.” (Luke 5:10)
And so my following began.

Death.
Don’t be afraid.
Follow.

Though it would cost me everything, even my very life and all the pleasures and materials I had once loved, I was to crucify those daily, torturously even, and be left in the wake of the life of Yahweh so I could follow Him freely, without any hindrance.

He knew.
He knew of my internal battle, and He was making me new in the midst of it.
He was showing me Who He was, as God of all.

For Him, no, in Him, I will crucify my old self, and live to follow Him daily in the newness of abundant life. Jesus, the Great I Am, was worth it.
He is the Beloved Son, the Only One worthy of my life.

Share your thoughts from today’s Journey Study!
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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!

Join the GT Community and share your thoughts!

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 IX 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 Sketched IX!

Posted in: Beloved, Cross, Follow, God, Good, Jesus, Life, Sketched Tagged: abundant, alive, Chosen One, cost, death, embrace, glory, law, light, Me, new, prophet, Son, work

The GT Weekend! ~ Focus Week 1

August 24, 2019 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)  Brianna noted on Monday, “God’s wisdom, while promoting His peace, does not promote a pain free life.” So we are left with the lingering question over our hearts, “do we really want to follow Jesus?”. This isn’t a one-time answer and finished for life. When the relationships get complicated and messy, will we follow? When it’s much easier to twist the truth and save ourselves, will we still follow? What are you walking through right now where you are need to ask, “Do I really want to follow Jesus?”. Remember, Sister, what’s at stake is for eternity. There is only One sure-footed place to walk the ups and downs of this life, and that’s following Jesus! Saying yes to Him will always be worth it, guaranteed.

2)  Quick, Slow, Slow. Three wise words waving like a white flag on repeat in my mind when I find myself in a scenario where my relational temperature is quickly on the rise. God’s wisdom, intended for everyday life application in big ways and small ones, will always bring life that causes flourishing. Quick to listen. Slow to speak. Slow to become angry. Listening brings life. Speaking should be only a small percentage of our relationships and anger…well, James says our anger does not accomplish the righteous purposes of God. Plain. Simple. Straight up wisdom. Practice raising the white flag in your relationships with those three words. Quick. Slow. Slow. Begin this weekend! As you slow, take those seconds, or minutes, to pray for the one you’re in conflict with.

3) We all have difficult seasons of our lives where we feel like the ground beneath us is swaying, shaking, and we aren’t sure we will make it to the other side. Pause for a few minutes and recall one or two of those times for you. What were the feelings you wrestled with?  What sustained you? When we feel like we are drowning, we need an anchor we can trust, no matter what. Relationships are amazing gifts, but they will always let us down in one fashion or another. What are your anchors? How do you know they will sustain you in your storms?

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 James 1:22-25 back to the Lord and
let His Spirit speak to you through it!

But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. 23 For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. 24 For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like. 25 But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing.

Prayer Journal
Lord, Your presence is everywhere at every moment, just as You are incessantly pursuing each of us that we might turn to You and discover the love we’ve longed for. In the same way, Your wisdom never ceases, and You urgently desire for us to walk in it. Not because You’re a dictator, but because You are love and You know we will have the richest, most fulfilling life when we walk wisely.
As we study You, Lord, make us wise. May we not just accumulate good sayings and nice thoughts, but teach us to live out Your wisdom daily. Spirit, this is impossible without Your power. May we surrender more of ourselves to You every day!

Worship Through Community

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

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

Worship Through Prayer

Worship Through Music

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Posted in: Daughter, Deliver, Discipleship, Excuses, Faith, Fear, Follow, God, Good, GT Weekend, Holy Spirit, Pain, Peace, Trust, Wisdom Tagged: cost, discipleship, follow, love, obedience, peace, wise, worship

Bride Day 4 Empty Identity: Digging Deeper

April 19, 2018 by Rebecca Adams Leave a Comment

Digging Deeper Days...are a pretty big deal at GT!

We search God's Word together, ask questions as we read, dig around to find the original intentions at the time of writing, and then make some applications to our everyday lives.
Along the way, we hope you'll pick up some new tools to study Scripture and you'll see truth in a new and accessible way!
Dig In!

The Passage

Looking for yesterday’s
Journey Study?
Check out Empty Identity!

Matthew 16:24-26 Christian Standard Bible (CSB)

24 Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If anyone wants to follow after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me. 25 For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life because of me will find it. 26 For what will it benefit someone if he gains the whole world yet loses his life? Or what will anyone give in exchange for his life?

The Questions

1) In what ways are we called to “deny ourselves”?

2) How do we “lose” our lives because of Jesus?

3) What point is Jesus making with His questions in verse 26?

The Findings for Intention

1) In what ways are we called to “deny ourselves”?
To be a disciple in Jesus’ day, was to be an apprentice. Young Jewish boys, whose fathers wanted them to become religious leaders, would spend their days following specific rabbis, copying what they did and learning from them. Over time, their entire identities would become shaped by the teachings and lifestyles of these rabbinic leaders. They had to be willing to give up everything about themselves in order to be molded and shaped in this apprenticing relationship. With Jesus, the disciples did not come to Him, rather He chose them. And in His choosing, He chose fishermen and tax collectors, those least likely to become religious leaders. He was turning the world upside down. The then-current idea of apprenticeship would take on a deeper meaning as Jesus drew His disciples out of their current lives to give them all new ones, lives they didn’t even know they wanted. He was inviting them to drop their old life for an entirely new one that required full commitment.

2) How do we “lose” our lives because of Jesus?
James and John and other disciples were fishermen by trade before Jesus called them. They owned the family business with their father and likely would be handed down the business when their father passed. They had dreams. Lives. Goals. Matthew (or Levi) was a tax collector. He had education, wealth, a reputation, and was seemingly doing quite well with his course in life. But Jesus’ invitation to become His disciple came, and everything changed as their lives were turned upside down. James and John immediately left their nets, the huge cash flow of fish they had just caught, their father, and the business they were to inherit. Matthew also immediately left his money changing tables, his profitable business, and his reputation to follow Jesus. These men were “losing their lives” for Christ. They were giving up their ideas for how their lives should go as they surrendered their plans to Jesus.

3) What point is Jesus making with His questions in verse 26?”
We only have one and if we do not care for it, no one else will, no one else even has the ability to do so. We are the stewards of our souls. The essence inside of us, that makes us…”us”. Our will, emotions, hopes, dreams, fears, all of it is wrapped up in our soul. To lose the soul is to lose everything, it is to lose “life” as the word is translated in the passage above. All would be meaningless without a soul, so it would seem of utmost importance to both care for the soul now on earth and for eternity. Jesus’ words imply that our souls can indeed be in danger of being lost. “For what will it benefit someone if he gains the whole world yet loses his life (soul)?” None can buy back their own soul after having lost it, it’s simply gone forever. With this weighty understanding, the supreme importance of following Jesus is brought into perspective. Choosing Jesus isn’t a matter of planning for retirement or whether we like attending church or have an aversion to moral decay, rather the eternal destiny of our souls hangs on the balance of what we do with our lives. Will we lose them for Christ or hold onto them for ourselves, finding in the end that we really couldn’t grasp them anyways?

The Everyday Application

1) In what ways are we called to “deny ourselves”?
Jesus’ offer for discipleship extends far beyond the first century to our own. He is still choosing disciples; He has extended His offer for new life to each one of us! But there is a cost we must consider. Luke recounts Jesus teaching, “whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple.” (Luke 14:27). This “cross” signifies the crucifixion of one’s self, our desires and the way of life that was common to us before coming to Christ. When Jesus, the great Rabbi, or disciple-maker, extends His invitation, He brings newness of life that will overrun the former way of living. The old has gone, the new has come! (2 Corinthians 5:17) If you’re a disciple of Jesus, what “old ways” of thinking and living are you still holding onto? Where are you clinging to the safety of familiarity rather than surrendering your ways to the Master? The cost seems great indeed, but the reward is infinitely greater than the sacrifice! For Gomer, in yesterday’s Journey Study, “denying herself” would have meant exchanging the empty identities she carried for the love and acceptance she was being offered in Hosea.

2) How do we “lose” our lives because of Jesus?
Luke’s gospel tells of Jesus inviting some to follow Him, but they replied with excuses. Family matters, other relationships, other priorities, these were their excuses and Jesus responded by warning them that unless they were “all in” for becoming a disciple of Jesus, then they had no place in His kingdom. Following Jesus will cost us our lives, but He gives His own in exchange. You will never find a genuine Christ-follower who, after choosing to “lose their life” for Jesus is met with regret. The fullness that Jesus brings satisfies every desire we have in ways that we never dreamed possible the more that we choose to surrender to Him. Whatever your passions, your dreams, your talents, your job, or your social status, Christ is inviting you to lose your life and find full satisfaction in what He will bring! Does it mean all will become pastors and teachers? Not at all, but it does mean He will shift your focus to amplify His glory and as He brings you good. Losing your life for Christ results in truly finding it!

3) What point is Jesus making with His questions in verse 26?
In yesterday’s Journey Study we see that Israel “chose to be her own savior and lost everything.” This is exactly the picture portrayed here in Matthew by Christ’s words and it should motivate us to consider what we are chasing, why we are chasing it, and if the investment of our lives is worth the price of our souls. What we give our lives to, the manner we do it in, and the motivation of our doing, is the proof of who the Master of our souls is. Have we lost our lives for Christ or are we trying to hold onto control while still trying to make our lives appear Christian-like? Only if our lives, our very souls, are turned over to Jesus, allowing Him to bring us real life and guide us with how to steward our lives, will the things we do in this life even matter.

Share your thoughts from today’s Journey Study!
Can we pray for you?
Sign up to receive every Journey Study!
Join the friends at the GT Facebook Community!

I Can Do That!

1) Take this passage (or any other passage).
2) Read through it (always more than a verse or two).
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!

The Community!

Thanks for joining us today as we journeyed into
Bride Week One!
Don’t miss out on the discussion. 
We’d love to hear your thoughts!

The Tools!

We love getting help while we study and www.studylight.org is one of many excellent resources.  Just type in the verse you’re looking at and Boom! It’s right in front of you in English and Hebrew (Old Testament) or Greek (New Testament), which are the original languages the Bible was written in.

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. Find super awesome stuff like “origin”, “definition”, and even all the different ways that single word has been translated into English! If you want to be geeky, you can even click the word and hear its original pronunciation – That Is Awesome!

Want to get more background on a word or phrasing or passage? 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 :-))

The Why!

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.

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

Looking for other journeys from this theme?
See all past studies in Bride!

Posted in: bride, Character, Daughter, Digging Deeper, Follow, Freedom, Fullness, Hope, Identity, Jesus, Legacy, Life, Loss, Meaning, Missing, Ordinary, Peace, Purpose, Relationship, Sacrifice, Sin, Trust, Truth Tagged: calling, cost, discipleship, emptiness, fullness, future, hope, meaning, purpose, significance

Flourishing Day 7
Truth Holders: Digging Deeper

May 16, 2017 by Rebecca Adams Leave a Comment

Digging Deeper Days...are a pretty big deal at GT!

We search God's Word together, ask questions as we read, dig around to find the original intentions at the time of writing, and then make some applications to our everyday lives.
Along the way, we hope you'll pick up some new tools to study Scripture and you'll see truth in a new and accessible way!
Dig In!

The Passage

Looking for yesterday’s
Journey Study?
Check out Truth Holders!

Mark 10:29-30 English Standard Version (ESV)

29 Jesus said, “Truly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or lands, for my sake and for the gospel,30 who will not receive a hundredfold now in this time, houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions, and in the age to come eternal life.

The Questions

1) Do I have to leave my children to follow Jesus?

2) What does “now in this time” and “receive a hundredfold” refer to?

3) Will believers be persecuted in the age to come also?

The Findings for Intention

1) Do I have to leave my children to follow Jesus?
Isolating these verses would certainly make it seem that Jesus is teaching us to abandon all relationships and possessions, but we know from the context of this chapter that, Jesus had just reinforced the extreme importance of relationships between parents, spouses, and children. Context is key to understanding, but cross-references can also help us dig deeper into tough passages. These verses are similarly spoken in Luke 14:24-27, where Jesus is talking about the cost of being His disciple. The emphasis in both Mark and Luke is the gospel. In essence, Jesus is asking, “what will you do for the gospel?” What will come first?

2) What does “now in this time” and “receive a hundredfold” refer to?
Jesus is teaching that whatever will be lost per the cost of following Him, will be more than made up for in what is to be gained. Deeper relationships are found in Christ, fuller abundance in life is received when Jesus is first and the gospel is our center. Committing our lives to Jesus will cost us, but the return is not even worth comparing, both in this life and in the one to come. True, we may lose material possessions or even relationships because we are choosing Jesus, but the pure sweetness of knowing Christ fuller and deeper and walking in community with other believers is worth much more than our losses.

3) Will believers be persecuted in the age to come also?
Definitely not! The phrase, “and in the age to come eternal life” refers to what the disciple will continue receiving. Inheritance and abundance that outweigh our loss begins in this life, but is brought to full fruition “in the age to come” (i.e. “eternal life”).

The Everyday Application

1) Do I have to leave my children to follow Jesus?
While Jesus does call us to live bravely for the gospel, not fearing people or trying to satisfy our pleasures before loving Jesus, these words are not a blank check to put “ministry” above relationships. “Ministry” is not the gospel. The gospel calls us to die to ourselves every day, allowing the Spirit to make us alive for His purposes, which is the crux of this teaching. If we are putting anything before our relationship with Jesus Christ, like parents, possessions, spouses, children, emotions, or relationships, then we have usurped God’s position and crafted an idol that we are now willing to worship in place of the Lord God! Only when Jesus is our everything can true balance and a life of fruitful richness be enjoyed. Hold onto the truth of who God is first, then everything else will fall into place. (seek first verse)

2) What does “now in this time” and “receive a hundredfold” refer to?
True discipleship costs something. Pause and consider….what has following Jesus cost you? Time? Money? Relationships? Career? Position? Friends? Or perhaps your decision to choose Christ hasn’t cost you anything, or very little. Maybe those around you don’t even know you’ve committed your everything to Christ. Does your life look that much different than your unbelieving neighbors? Does your Facebook page reflect beliefs that align with the Bible? Do your words and your actions mirror Jesus’ love, even when it costs you something? If you were accused of being a Christian, would there be enough true evidence to convict you? What “wealth” are you holding onto, like the Rich Young Ruler in the passage, that you feel isn’t worth the cost of following the Lord?

3) Will believers be persecuted in the age to come also?
For me, who had a difficult childhood, I automatically think that this life will be wrought with difficulty after difficulty for following Jesus and I often miss out on recognizing all the sweetness that is granted because I’ve chosen Jesus as my Savior. Paul speaks in Ephesians of the deep comfort and encouragement that comes from being sealed by the Spirit and walking in fellowship with other believers. Their truly is rich abundance in being found in Christ today and now! I challenge you, as I have myself, to go through your day and make an actual numbered list of the wonders and treasures that are yours because of Jesus! Opening our eyes to see the riches around ushers us into deeper intimacy with the Lord because we see Him more clearly as the very good Father that He is! Plus, it’s a really great way to hold onto truth instead of the sway of our emotions!

Share your thoughts from today’s Journey Study!
Can we pray for you?
Sign up to receive every Journey Study!

I Can Do That!

1) Take this passage (or any other passage).
2) Read through it (always more than a verse or two).
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!

The Community!

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

The Tools!

We love getting help while we study and www.studylight.org is one of many excellent resources.  Just type in the verse you’re looking at and Boom! It’s right in front of you in English and Hebrew (Old Testament) or Greek (New Testament), which are the original languages the Bible was written in.

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. Find super awesome stuff like “origin”, “definition”, and even all the different ways that single word has been translated into English! If you want to be geeky, you can even click the word and hear its original pronunciation – That Is Awesome!

Want to get more background on a word or phrasing or passage? 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 :-))

The Why!

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.

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

Looking for other journeys from this theme?
See all past studies in Flourishing!

Posted in: Believe, Bold, Brave, Broken, church, Courage, Digging Deeper, Excuses, Faith, Fear, Fullness, God, Grace, Hope, Inheritance, Jesus, Legacy, Life, Power, Praise, Prayer, Sacrifice, Safe, Timothy, Truth Tagged: Christ, cost, disciple, discipleship, persecution, sacrifice, surrender, worship

Sketched Day 5
Pharaoh

October 21, 2016 by Merry Ohler Leave a Comment

Read His Words Before Ours!

Exodus 12:29-42
Psalms 62:9-12
Psalm 81pharaoh

Nothing escapes my gaze. Thousands live and die by my word. No foreign god could possibly sway me. And this man, Moses, dared to tell me I must release “his people” so they could go away to worship him? Pffft.

I am Pharaoh.

Who was this god to which Moses referred, anyway? He thought himself more powerful than Ra, god of the sun? Or Amun, our creator? And what about Isis, our mother? What could possibly make him think he held more power than they? Ridiculous. “His people” were in my chains, and forced to do my bidding. I, Pharaoh, determined whether they would come or go, live or die. Their worship would be in vain, anyway. Their god held no power.

The Israelites belong to me. I will never release them.

And what kind of god “meets with” his people? Ha. What a joke. The gods do not meet with people. They are to be served, feared and worshipped from afar. Moses and his companion were out of their minds. It was all just an elaborate ploy to get the Israelites out of their work. To teach Moses a lesson, I made the slaves tasks even more difficult.

I refused to cower in the face of their little magic tricks. Turn a staff into a snake? Big deal. My sorcerers did the same, and better. Water into blood?  Child’s play.

So the frogs, gnats and flies were…inconvenient. But how quickly this god acquiesced to my request. All I had to do was extend a simple, insincere request of Moses, and he convinced his god to remove the curse. Fools, all of them. A great leader never bows to the request of another. The Israelite god showed his colors, and they ran yellow. He is weak.

Then he killed off our livestock. My blood boils to think about it. Thousands and thousands of beasts, dead. Wasted. The stench of their carcasses still assaults my senses. He deigned to allow the Israelites’ livestock to live, though. Not a single one perished. Just who did this god think he was? The Israelites possessed only what I, Pharaoh, allowed them to possess!  Their beasts were mine. He lived in a fantasy world.

The boils were…disgusting. I heard the cries of those afflicted, and I admit they looked to be a painful annoyance. But then came the hail. Killing my people and beasts alike, lightning flashed and huge rocks of hail fell. It struck every plant, every tree.

That is when I knew. This god was real. He was powerful. He was serious.

I called for Moses, and he beseeched his god for me. The hail stopped. But I realized my mistake and changed my mind. I couldn’t allow my people to see me cave.

I am Pharaoh. I will never bow to a god I do not know, and certainly not at the insistence of some Israelite.

Then the Hebrew god sent locusts, killing what little had survived the hail. My advisors pleaded with me to release the Israelites, but too much was at stake.

I refused.

So he sent darkness. The kind of darkness that could make you go mad. Darkness that went on for days. There was no sun.  Ra didn’t help us. Amun didn’t rescue us, either. Isis remained silent.

My country was decimated. My people were riddled with fear and anger. We had no crops, no livestock. No future. My grasp on Egypt was slipping, and my people questioned my resolve.

Still, I held fast to my vow. What more could this god do to us? He had taken everything from us already. He had shown that he was strong and I knew what he wanted.

But I would not let them go.

The Hebrew god would not relent. I should have known. It was not enough for him to take my country, my livestock, my future and my people. No. Instead, he crept into my palace in the dead of night, stealing the very breath of my firstborn. He might as well have ripped my beating heart from my chest, such was the pain. I will never forget the cries that pierced the darkness that night. My howls of anguish mingled with thousands of others. The god of the Israelites left no house untouched…save those of his precious Jews and the few traitors that followed the instruction of Moses. In my moment of weakness, I was a fool.  I let them go, when I swore I would not. My mind was unclear, numbed by the loss of my child. The Hebrew god took advantage of me.

Never again.

Which brings us to here. I see the Israelites now. They are practically shaking with fear as they plod along the path… And look! Their god still insists on showing his power. Even now, he parts the sea around them!

What arrogance! Does he not feel how the ground shakes with the strength of my army? What a fool! Hundreds of officers and chariots ride with me. Do they really think I will ever let them go? Does he think he frightens me? I have nothing left to lose, and they belong to me!
We will follow them through these waters and I will bring them back to Egypt with me.
—-
Pharaoh was an unwitting testament to God’s incredible power. Time and again, God demonstrated His strength, power and might…and time and again, Pharaoh attempted to stand up to Him in vain. For all of Pharaoh’s pride, he never stood a chance. He lost everything, including the loss of his son…and later, his own life. (for the whole story, see Exodus 4-13)

My God, the God of the Israelites, holds that same power today. He is unchanging and His power unmatched. It is easy for us to condemn Pharaoh for his pride, but how often do we rely on our own strength rather than God’s when we are faced with emotional and mental bondage? Do we try to redeem our (addiction, anger, depression, grief, relationships, trauma, loneliness) on our own, or do we turn to the only One capable of delivering us from our chains? Try as we might to save ourselves, we will always fall short. The exultant exodus of the Israelites paints a beautiful picture of the freedom God offers us through salvation in Jesus.

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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!
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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!

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Posted in: Broken, Courage, Emptiness, Excuses, Faith, Fear, God, persecution, Power, Purpose, Redemption, Restored, Sin, Sketched, Strength, Truth Tagged: battle, cost, freedom, humility, power, sacrifice, sketched, Truth
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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