training

The GT Weekend! ~ Training Week 3

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The GT Weekend!

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

Worship Through Journaling

Worship Through Journaling

1) I often find myself getting busy and eventually, I realize I haven’t eaten or been hungry. However, when intentionally choosing to fast, my attention becomes desperately focused on the necessity of food. Funny how our minds work! Not so funny is understanding that Satan is working against us by attacking our discipline of fasting with distraction. For me, I find fasting to be among the more difficult spiritual disciplines. Fasting for various reasons has become trendier in recent times, providing a more comfortable platform for discussion, but spiritual fasting is still often forgotten. On the other hand, believers who fast can be tempted to look down upon those who haven’t yet practiced fasting. For years, I didn’t fast as I was either pregnant or nursing, and undisciplined in between. The more I leaned into relationship with Jesus, the more convicted I became concerning fasting. I realized I may be missing the movement of God because I was unwilling to set myself aside through prayer and fasting. Where can you begin to train in fasting? Try giving up a single meal once a week, then move towards two and three a day. Watch how the Lord shows you Himself in deeper ways and moves mountains with your faith as you physically surrender to Him! Written by Carol Graft

2) It’s easy to become caught up in worship music and think we’ve truly worshiped the Lord fully, but Wednesday’s Journey Study showed us how worship is much more than an experience. Brenda taught us that biblical worship is a lifestyle that glorifies God, moves us to obedience and complete surrender, and cultivates respect for the Lord. Reflect on being sustained by God. Write out prayers of thanksgiving and praise for the ways He guards, protects, and preserves. As we reflect upon and see the characteristics of God, allowing Him to be everything we need in every situation, we worship! How can you incorporate meditating on God’s character into your daily schedule? As you meditate on those characteristics, find Scripture you can use to remind yourself of these truths about God’s heart so this fundamental understanding will lead our hearts into genuine worship. Written by Marietta Taylor

3) Generosity is almost always associated with giving money. While this is certainly part of generosity, we saw how exercising our generosity muscles encompasses more than finances. A generosity that reflects God’s heart is founded upon intentional and joyful sacrifice. This lifestyle of giving can involve money, prayer, sharing wisdom, or using your talents to encourage and edify the Church. I remember offering to babysit for our neighbor’s young children so the couple could enjoy their anniversary. My husband and I kept the kids not one night, but two. Something so simple, but richly life-giving to them, and memorable for all of us! Think of some instances when you’ve experienced another’s generosity toward you. Record what they did, how it made you feel, and how it reflected the heart of God to you. How have you been generous to others? Remember that being generous is something only God equips us to do. How can you make space in your life to be more generous? Begin by praying about how the Lord may be specifically calling you to be generous and then do it! If you need some inspiration, check out the Open Journey Theme! Written by Marietta Taylor

Praying Scripture back to the One who wrote it in the first place is a great way to jump start our prayer-life! Pray this passage from Colossians 3:23-24 back to the Lord and
let His Spirit speak to you through it!

Whatever you do, do it from the heart, as something done for the Lord and not for people, knowing that you will receive the reward of an inheritance from the Lord. You serve the Lord Christ.

Prayer Journal
Heavenly Father, as we close out this study on training, I pray all I have learned will remain with me. You know I struggle with consistency. So, I pray the Holy Spirit will continually nudge me to evaluate my life to reveal how I can better worship you, serve you and others, and grow ever closer to You. May I spend my everyday moments practicing for that One Day when I will finally be in Your presence, worshiping You forever. Every breath spent on this endeavor is well spent and echoes into eternity! May I never stop pursuing after, and participating in, spiritual training, for here, I come to know You in ever deepening ways. Help me be an example to others, not for my glory Lord, but for Yours. Praise Your glorious name for the good work You are doing through my surrender!

Worship Through Community

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Worship Through Prayer

Worship Through Music

Training Day 15 The Generosity Muscles

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Read His Words Before Ours!

1 John 3:16-18
2 Corinthians 8:1-15
Matthew 6:1-4
2 Corinthians 9:7-11
Malachi 3:10-12

Training, Day 15

“All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

Over the last few weeks we have been diving into the Word and focusing on spiritual disciplines. How have you been impacted through this journey? What specific discipline(s) has the Lord highlighted for you to focus on moving forward?

Has silence taken on a new meaning in your life? Or has your perspective of fasting morphed? Maybe you have not sensed any dramatic shifts, but you now have more nuanced understandings of several of the spiritual disciplines.

Before we transition to the next study theme, we have one more training topic to discuss: generosity.

To start, pull out paper and pen or the notes app on your phone. For the next minute, please list ways you can show generosity in your current sphere of influence. Your goal is to think of as many as possible in these 60 seconds. Don’t second guess. Don’t analyze. Simply picture generosity in your world and go.

60 seconds. Set an alarm if it helps.
List away.
Finished?
What was your experience like? What categories and actions made it to your list?

How I wish this conversation were taking place in person.
Since it is not, I will share a few elements I discovered about my list, some of which surprised me.

The first category on my list was money. Scripture does not shy away from addressing money and its impact on our hearts, minds, and walks with the Lord. Tithing, the practice of returning the first 10% of our income to the Lord, is a key component for keeping our hearts focused on the Lord and what He is doing. The Lord knew how significantly money could ensnare our hearts and even encourages us to test Him to show His faithfulness when we tithe. (Malachi 3:10-12)

Financial generosity, however, is not formulaic and moves beyond tithing. Rather than being defined by a certain number, recipient, or cause, financial generosity is characterized by our willingness to give joyfully as the Lord leads. (2 Corinthians 9:7)

In fact, a key component to any and all generosity is obedience to the Lord.

“Because of the proof provided by this ministry, [fellow believers] will glorify God for your obedient confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone.” (2 Corinithians 9:13)

Our goal is to become more Christlike. (2 Corinthians 3:18) True generosity, the kind that makes us more like Him and demonstrates our spiritual growth, is an outpouring of hearing and obeying. It’s a heart-level response.

Is the Lord asking you to give to a missionary? Is He asking you to help support a single parent? Is He the author of the totally random and unexpected “passing thought” to bring your co-worker a coffee one morning?

The Lord knows each one of us so very intimately and, simultaneously, sees the big picture in all things. Therefore, He knows what each of us needs and how our paths cross. Maybe that random cup of coffee is the warm hug from the Lord your co-worker needs; we may never know how we might be an answer to prayer.

Generosity, then, is about giving open-handedly, no strings attached, zero expectation for accolades; instead, we expect God’s promises outlined in His Word to be fulfilled; His grace will overflow to us, equipping us to do the good work to which He’s called us. (2 Corinthians 9:8)
He will give us what we need that we might live with righteous generosity, bringing glory and thanksgiving to the Lord. (2 Corinthians 9:10-13)
He will build “deep affection” among believers, as those blessed by generosity lift up the givers in prayer. (2 Corinthians 9:14)

And finally, as I made my list, I found that while a few situations were financial, many were not, reminding me generosity includes, but also extends beyond, our finances.

One person is in a challenging season and needs solid, consistent prayer covering. While money may help at some point, the Lord highlighted her name when brainstorming how I could be generous with my time and intercession.

Another idea is to send a handwritten note to a friend who unexpectedly lost her husband this summer. This idea prompts me to be generous with my talents and my time. How could your talents be used generously for the glory of the Lord?

Regardless of what made your list, as we grow and practice our generosity, may we keep our eyes focused on the Lord. He is the pioneer and perfecter of our faith and it is through Him we become more like Him in every spiritual discipline.

My sister, thank you for growing in the Lord by leaning into training more intensely in these spiritual disciplines. May the Lord define and strengthen your “spiritual muscles” and bless your training!

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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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Training Day 14 Much More Than: 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 Much More Than!

The Questions

1) Who were the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders worshiping? (verse 10)

3) What is the significance of the seven items ascribed to The Lamb in verse 12?

3) Why is it important that every creature join in the praise? (verse 13)

Revelation 5:8-14

8 When he took the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp and golden bowls filled with incense, which are the prayers of the saints. 9 And they sang a new song: You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, because you were slaughtered, and you purchased people for God by your blood from every tribe and language and people and nation. 10 You made them a kingdom and priests to our God, and they will reign on the earth. 11 Then I looked and heard the voice of many angels around the throne, and also of the living creatures and of the elders. Their number was countless thousands, plus thousands of thousands. 12 They said with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb who was slaughtered to receive power and riches and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing! 13 I heard every creature in heaven, on earth, under the earth, on the sea, and everything in them say, Blessing and honor and glory and power be to the one seated on the throne, and to the Lamb, forever and ever! 14 The four living creatures said, “Amen,” and the elders fell down and worshiped.

Original Intent

1) Who were the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders worshiping? (verse 10)
In Revelation 4:3 we are introduced to the Throne Room of heaven, with God the Father sitting on His throne. Surrounding Him are the thrones of the twenty-four elders. There are many theories about who they are, but according to Meyer’s NT Commentary they are “the representatives of the entire congregation of all believers, to whom…belong the holiness and glory indicated by the white robes, and the royal dominion by the thrones and crowns”. The four creatures are representatives of some of the characteristics of God. “These four creatures represent dominance and majesty (lion, the king of animals), vigor (calf), wisdom (man), and speed or sovereignty (eagle).” (Verse By Verse Commentary) Their role is to praise God forever. (Revelation 4:8) We see them in chapter 5 still in the Throne Room, but this time joined by the Only One able to open the scroll and break the seven seals. (verse 5) He is “the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David” (Revelation 5:5) but is presented in the Throne Room as a slain lamb with “the marks of omnipotence (seven horns) and omniscience (seven eyes).” (Enduring Word Commentary) Who is this Lion of Judah (Genesis 49:9-10), this “Lamb of God” (John 1:29) who was slain but is still alive? It is Jesus, to Whom the elders and creatures offer praise for being the Only One worthy to open the scrolls and break the seals. Jesus is the One who gave His life to purchase His people (verse 9) and made us a “kingdom of priests…holy nation”. (verse 10)

2) What is the significance of the seven items ascribed to The Lamb in verse 12?
The twenty-four elders, the four living creatures, and the thousands upon thousands of angels (verse 11) are all praising and celebrating Jesus, the Lamb, listing the things He is worthy to receive. But Jesus already has all these things because He is God, the Creator and Sustainer of everything. John Gill explains it this way, “…when He is said to be worthy to receive these, it is not to be understood of His receiving the things themselves, but of the praise of them; and that these are to be observed in Him, and to be ascribed to Him.” Specifically, those characteristics are “power-omnipotence; riches-beneficence; wisdom-omniscience; strength-power in prevalent exercise; honour-the highest reputation for what he has done; glory-the praise due to such actions; and blessing-the thankful acknowledgments of the whole creation.” (Studylight.org) Because of how magnificent Christ Jesus is, He alone is worthy to receive all honor and glory.

3) Why is it important that every creature join in the praise? (verse 14)
Philippians 2:9-11 tells us of Father God’s intentions with Jesus. He gave Jesus “the name that is above every name so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord”.  Every creature giving Jesus praise in the Revelation passage shows the fulfillment of God’s plan. Job even said to God, “I know that you can do anything and no plan of yours can be thwarted.” (Job 42:2) Also important is that by joining in the praise of Jesus, the worshipers are acknowledging Him as God, for only God deserves all worship, “There cannot be the slightest doubt that the Lamb is to be reckoned with God and as God.” (Enduring Word) This is evidenced by the elders worshiping in complete surrender. (verse 14)

Everyday Application

1) Who were the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders worshiping? (verse 10)
The four living creatures and the twenty-four elders were worshiping the Lamb who was slain but was yet alive. They worshipped Him as the Lion of Judah and the Root of David. (Revelation 5:5) We know Him as Jesus. We worship Him as the Lamb because He went to the cross to pay for our sins. (1 John 3:16) We worship Him as the Root of David because “the Messiah was the Branch that would grow from Jesse’s root to restore David’s dynasty.” (Global Study Bible) Jesus is that Messiah. Finally, we worship him as the Lion of Judah because He conquered sin and the grave. (2 Timothy 1:10) Just as Jesus was worshiped by the living creatures and the elders, so should we worship Him for Who He is and what He has done for us. Consider your own view of Jesus in your everyday life. How often do you consider worshiping Him for Who He is in the middle of your daily routine? If heavenly elders and creatures worship Him on their faces, how can we do less?

2)  What is the significance of the seven items ascribed to The Lamb in verse 12?
Each of the seven items are characteristics we can observe in Jesus. The Lord Jesus has the power to do what He plans, therefore, we can depend on Him to handle every situation. Every resource belongs to Jesus. He is able to bless us with those riches, of which the most precious is His grace “that He richly poured out on us with all wisdom and understanding.” (Ephesians 1:8) All wisdom comes from God. (Proverbs 2:6) We only need to ask and He will give it “generously and ungrudgingly.” (James 1:5) In everything we face, we can be strong because David reminds us in Psalm 28:7, “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped.” We all like to be recognized for our accomplishments. Jesus who “suffered the ultimate dishonor of being crucified as a common criminal to pay for our sins” and who “focused on honoring His heavenly Father during His ministry” (Kids Talk About God) deserves all honor due Him. Yet He also honors us! (John 12:26) Glory is the praise received for doing something of great significance. There isn’t enough space here to list all the things Jesus has done that are of great significance. Given they are too numerous, this alone is more evidence pointing to Him deserving all glory. And finally blessing. Jesus was there in the beginning with Father God crafting all of creation. (John 1:1-5) Jesus is the holder of blessings, which He freely gives to us. (James 1:17-18) Looking at this list, we begin to see the depth of Jesus’ goodness and His supreme holiness. How blessed we are to be able to worship Him and lavish Him with praise!

3) Why is it important that every creature join in the praise? (verse 14)
In our current culture, there are many who do not believe Jesus is God. There are many who don’t even believe there is a God. In Isaiah 45:22-23, God declares this unchangeable and inevitable truth, “For I am God, and there is no other. By myself I have sworn; truth has gone from My mouth, a word that will not be revoked: Every knee will bow to Me, every tongue will swear allegiance.”  Since it has been established that Jesus is God, then just as every knee will bow and confess God as God, then so too must every creature confess Jesus as Lord. They must acknowledge His divinity and bow in worship to Him. We are able to freely choose this worship today and should make every effort to do so as often as we can. Jesus is Lord. Let us offer Him our praise and worship! On the day Christ returns to earth to set up His rule and reign, the choice will no longer be ours to make. Every tongue will confess Him as Lord, but the opportunity to surrender willfully will have passed. The decision to reject Christ as Lord will be honored by God and all who have willfully rejected Him will spend eternity apart from Him. Choose today to surrender in full worship with your life!

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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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Training Day 13 Much More Than

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Read His Words Before Ours!

Revelation 5:8-14
Psalm 100
Romans 12:1-2
John 4:23-24
Colossians 3:23-24

Training, Day 13

I’m ready for another summer vacation. But, y’all, in all honesty, packing hasn’t always been easy. I pack way too much! Several weeks ago, I tried packing “only essentials” for the first time. Talk about anxiety overload!

It’s the same with WORSHIP. Worship is much more than songs and encompasses far more than we could understand. For today, we’ll only discuss a few aspects; however, worship is an ongoing conversation at Gracefully Truthful, and we’d love for you to join us here!

To fully understand worship as more than music, we must first realize what worship is not. It is not entertainment. Don’t get me wrong, I love a good concert! Watching and listening to an artist in-person creates an explosive, exciting atmosphere. The music is, well, WOW; so surreal. Still, this experience does NOT yield the Presence of God! 

Are you ready to unpack worship?

Worship is a relationship-building lifestyle, not just an experience.

Worship should bring us closer to the heart of our Father as our sin and defenses are surrendered to the God who loves us!

“For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear. Instead, you received the spirit of adoption, by whom we cry out, ‘Abba, Father!’” (Romans 8:14-15)

When we’re closer to Abba Father, we call this “relationship,” and worship becomes a function of our hearts!

Worship glorifies our Creator.

We were created in His image. (Genesis 1:27) Our worship is the very breath of God inside us. In this fellowship, or relationship, we reach the highest point of communion with our Creator. (Revelation 4:11) It is the reason we were created and the most important purpose of our eternal calling.

Worship points us to the heart of the Father. 

We worship God because He is worthy; He is greater than anything or anyone. (Revelation 5:8-14) As we know Him more, understanding His love and power, we are drawn into worship, for our Father’s heart is revealed.

Worship is the sacrifice of our total selves.

The beginning of worship is praise. When we praise Him, we celebrate both what He does and Who He is! (Psalm 100) Our heart-atmosphere begins shifting toward worship. Here, we can fully surrender to Him, sacrificing ourselves as we trust our Father. In surrender, our heart attitude moves toward repentance and reverence for His holiness. (Exodus 34:5-9)

Worship strengthens and rejuvenates our inner being. 

Many of us move through different seasons in life. The one constant is “Jesus Christ [who] is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8)

In our dry season, He is our Living Water! (John 4:10-14)
In our hungry season, He is our Bread! (John 6:35)
In need, He is our Provider. (Philippians 4:19)
Through uncertainty, He is our Firm Foundation. (1 Corinthians 3:11)
In weakness, He is our Strength. (2 Corinthians 12:9)
In every season, He is our Guide in the darkness, our Light. (John 8:12)

My sweet friends, let’s celebrate Him! Our prayer, praise, and worship should not fluctuate in any season of life, but remain constant, fixed on our Father. He faithfully refreshes us from the inside out.

Worship encompasses obedience.

When King Uzziah of ancient Judah sought and obeyed God, he had success in battling Judah’s enemies. (2 Chronicles 26:1-15) Later, Uzziah became prideful and unfaithful through blatant disobedience to God’s instructions for holy worship, which “led to his own destruction.” (2 Chronicles 26: 16-21) Obedience, we learn, is an important aspect of worship.

How does God instruct us to worship?
“Shout for joy” (Psalm 98:4)
“Bless the Lord at all times” (Psalm 34:1)
“Sing to the Lord, bless His Name” (Psalm 96:2)
Sister, let’s choose to worship with obedience!

Worship encompasses respect for God.

When we worship the Lord, we do so with respect, reverence, and awe.
Moses removed his sandals when standing on “holy ground.” (Exodus 3:5)
King Darius instructed his kingdom to revere the true God of Daniel. (Daniel 6:26-27)

Reverence brings surrender, our response to His love. It acknowledges our trust in the One Who created us, and ultimately glorifies the One Who has given Himself for us! This is true worship.

Finally, worship encompasses celebration.

In Luke 15:11-32, Jesus tells a parable, a word picture painted to represent His fatherly love toward us: a boy left home as a wayward prodigal and returned as a repentant son. With open arms, his father welcomed his son home. This was a time for celebration!

Zephaniah 3:17 gives another glimpse of God’s celebration over His people.
“He will rejoice over you with gladness [. . .]
He will delight in you with singing.”

When we follow His example, celebration acknowledges the goodness and mercy of God through worship.

See, I told y’all about my packing. Worship is “packed full,” and while we’ve only skimmed its surface today, I pray God uses these principles to guide and empower each of us to worship in Spirit and in truth!

[Oh, before you go, I haven’t quite finished unpacking. Shuffle through this Spotify playlist; it’s chock-full of worship music. Where will worship lead you? Remember it’s His breath in our lungs!]

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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 Training 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 Training!

Training Day 12 Hungry For More: 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 Hungry For More!

The Questions

1) What is biblical fasting and what is its purpose? (verse 1)

2) Why was there great mourning among the Jewish people? (verse 3)

3) What role did fasting play in saving the Jews? (verse 16)

Esther 4

When Mordecai learned all that had occurred, he tore his clothes, put on sackcloth and ashes, went into the middle of the city, and cried loudly and bitterly. 2 He went only as far as the King’s Gate, since the law prohibited anyone wearing a sackcloth from entering the King’s Gate. 3 There was great mourning among the Jewish people in every province where the king’s command and edict reached. They fasted, wept, and lamented, and many lay in sackcloth and ashes.

4 Esther’s female servants and her eunuchs came and reported the news to her, and the queen was overcome with fear. She sent clothes for Mordecai to wear so that he would take off his sackcloth, but he did not accept them. 5 Esther summoned Hathach, one of the king’s eunuchs who attended her, and dispatched him to Mordecai to learn what he was doing and why. 6 So Hathach went out to Mordecai in the city square in front of the King’s Gate. 7 Mordecai told him everything that had happened as well as the exact amount of money Haman had promised to pay the royal treasury for the slaughter of the Jews.

8 Mordecai also gave him a copy of the written decree issued in Susa ordering their destruction, so that Hathach might show it to Esther, explain it to her, and command her to approach the king, implore his favor, and plead with him personally for her people. 9 Hathach came and repeated Mordecai’s response to Esther.

10 Esther spoke to Hathach and commanded him to tell Mordecai, 11 “All the royal officials and the people of the royal provinces know that one law applies to every man or woman who approaches the king in the inner courtyard and who has not been summoned—the death penalty—unless the king extends the gold scepter, allowing that person to live. I have not been summoned to appear before the king for the last thirty days.” 12 Esther’s response was reported to Mordecai.

13 Mordecai told the messenger to reply to Esther, “Don’t think that you will escape the fate of all the Jews because you are in the king’s palace. 14 If you keep silent at this time, relief and deliverance will come to the Jewish people from another place, but you and your father’s family will be destroyed. Who knows, perhaps you have come to your royal position for such a time as this.”

15 Esther sent this reply to Mordecai: 16 “Go and assemble all the Jews who can be found in Susa and fast for me. Don’t eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my female servants will also fast in the same way. After that, I will go to the king even if it is against the law. If I perish, I perish.” 17 So Mordecai went and did everything Esther had commanded him.

Original Intent

1) What is biblical fasting and what is its purpose? (verse 1)
True biblical fasting is both a heart and body posture of seeking God above all else. We do away with the comforts of food or drink in order to display our desperate need, seek repentance for sin, or ask God’s guidance. In his fasting, Mordecai also wept and lamented. Is there a difference between the two? Lament is to be mournful or regretful, but in biblical settings the intonation is that the lament is directed in prayer to God. To weep is to cry aloud. Both actions denote deep, anguished grief, especially when combined together. Mordecai’s response to learning of the genocide of his people was to fast, weep, and lament in prayer. (verse 3) Many people who were mourning went a step further and wore sackcloth, functional garments made of coarse material from either goat or camel hair. God instructed the Israelites to wear sackcloth when repenting. “On that day the Lord God of Armies called for weeping, for wailing, for shaven heads, and for the wearing of sackcloth.” (Isaiah 22:12) The uncomfortable fabric would have been a reminder of brokenness resulting from sin. Ashes were a sign of self-humiliation and mourning. Others would notice the sackcloth garment, see the ashes, and hear the laments. These outward signs were intended to usher in repentance as participants publicly declared the internal state of their heart for either humility in asking guidance or sorrow over sin.

2) Why was there great mourning among the Jewish people? (verse 3)
King Xerxes had a servant, Haman, who was elevated to a seat of honor higher than any of the other king’s nobles. (Esther 3:1) Everyone knelt to give him honor at the king’s gate except one man, Mordecai. (Esther 3:2) This infuriated Haman and irked his pride. (Esther 3:5) On learning of Mordecai’s Jewish heritage, Haman loathed the Jews even more; incited by Mordecai’s refusal to bow in Haman’s presence, Haman “planned to destroy all of Mordecai’s people, the Jews”. (Esther 3:6) In effort to preserve his own arrogance, Haman plotted the extermination of an entire people group, effectively eradicating the race he hated. Through trickery, Haman involved the king and gained his approval. (Esther 3:8-9) Within days, the king sealed an edict with his signet ring condemning all Jews to death. (Esther 3:10-13) This horrific legalization of mass genocide was the reason Mordecai and all his people came before the Lord in fasting, weeping, and lament.

3) What role did fasting play in saving the Jews? (verse 16)
Esther commanded Mordecai to commission the Jewish people to fast and pray for three days. (Esther 4:16) Esther also included herself and her maidservant in the fast as well. (Esther 4:16) Fasting is a biblical discipline intended to petition the Lord for His assistance, often on behalf of another. (Isaiah 58:6-8) We are to practice this with intentionality. In the Old Testament law given to Israel, God declared, “This is to be a permanent statute for you: In the seventh month, on the tenth day of the month you are to practice self-denial and do no work, both the native and the alien who resides among you.” (Leviticus 16:29)  Fasting is a sacrifice and, as such, we recognize it will be uncommon and uncomfortable but not unrecognized by our Lord. (Matthew 6:16-18) Esther was willing to go to the king on behalf of the Jews, but only after she had fasted and prayed. Fasting demonstrates both a humble heart and willing submission to the authority of the Lord God. In recognition that all things are sustained and upheld by God (Colossians 1:16-17), fasting with prayer displays a pleading for mercy.

Everyday Application

1) What is biblical fasting and what is its purpose? (verse 1)
Mordecai was in anguish at Haman’s plot to destroy the Jews because of their ethnicity and beliefs. Division between cultures and races is evidenced throughout the Old Testament between Jews and any other population outside the tribes of Israel. The best example of this division, and Jesus’ loving, invitational response to know Him, is displayed in the dialogue between Jesus and a Samaritan woman. “A woman of Samaria came to draw water. “Give me a drink,” Jesus said to her, because His disciples had gone into town to buy food. “How is it that you, a Jew, ask for a drink from me, a Samaritan woman?” she asked him. For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.” (John 4:7-9) Jesus invited a relationship across cultural-racial boundaries because God’s heart is love towards all people to know Him as the God who rescues from sin and condemnation. When we fast as Mordecai did for his people, we are bearing up the burden of reconciliation and bringing it to the Lord who loves to bring unity. Mordecai was heartbroken for his people and desired their preservation, so his response was to bring his burden to the Lord through fasting, weeping, and lamenting. Jesus came for the sins of the entire world (John 3:16), therefore we should be concerned for the salvation of our world. Lamenting over our division through fasting and prayer as Mordecai exemplified is the place to begin. God would have us preach the gospel to all the nations. (Mark 13:10)

2) Why was there great mourning among the Jewish people? (verse 3)
The Jews were to be annihilated because of the selfish ambitions of one man, Haman. (Esther 3:1-6) Haman was “filled with rage” because Mordecai would not pay him the respect he thought he deserved. It’s easy to read this account and condemn Haman for such arrogance, but what happens to us when we don’t get our way or are wronged by another? Surges of anger? Feelings of indignation?  Perhaps even disgust? The rest of Esther’s narrative shows us that Haman grew so angry he not only plotted the destruction of an entire nation of people, but also constructed towering gallows on which to personally hang Mordecai. (Esther 5:14) Anger and rage burn inside us until we make poor judgments. (James 1:14-15) The Bible reminds us not to sin when we are angry and not to let the sun go down on the anger we feel. (Ephesians 4:26-27) Scripture also reminds us that God has final judgment on all actions. (Psalm 50:6, Psalm 75:6-8) In light of God and His righteous judgment, consider the comfort of Psalm 54:7, “For He has rescued me from every trouble, and my eye has looked down on my enemies. God is our refuge and strength, but he is also our defender!” God offers rescue to all who trust entirely upon Him! He removes our sin “as far as the east is from the west” (Psalm 103:12) and gives His own righteousness to us in exchange for our great sinfulness. (2 Corinthians 5:21)

3) What role did fasting play in saving the Jews? (verse 16)
When the Holy Spirit prompts us to fast we need to examine the reason. Have we sinned and are seeking forgiveness? Is there a decision to be made? Is there a certain calamity our family, employer, or nation is facing? When called to fast, how will we prepare our hearts? Will our focus be on reflecting God’s glory or on obtaining our desires? (John 14:13) When Mordecai learned all that had occurred, he tore his clothes, put on sackcloth and ashes, went into the middle of the city, and cried loudly and bitterly. (Esther 4:1) How will you respond to the discipline of fasting? If you are in another’s presence, can you lament? If there is a party or event planned can you dress in sackcloth? Should you fast from food in the presence of others? Although these might seem legalistic, they each have their importance in the picture of fasting. These are questions you must take to God in prayer. Jesus fasted before entering His earthly ministry. (Matthew 4:2) The prophetess, Anna, fasted in the temple as a routine discipline of her faith. (Luke 2:37) Esther fasted before petitioning the king. (Esther 4:16) Seek your own posture of fasting and allow God to direct the type of fast you will offer as a sacrifice to Him.

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Digging Deeper is for Everyone!

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

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Why Dig Deeper?

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

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

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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.

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Training Day 11 Hungry For More

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Read His Words Before Ours!

John 4:27-38
Isaiah 58:1-12
Matthew 6:9-21
Esther 4

Training, Day 11

From my childhood, fasting has been a discipline I have heard about and witnessed. I grew up in the Bible Belt, an area in the midwest and southern US where Protestant fundamentalism is widely practiced. Appearing “godly” is part of the culture. When I was younger, though I felt shame and guilt for not participating in community fasts, I didn’t really see the need for fasting. Why should I starve myself in order to seem holy?

As I grew in spiritual understanding, I learned fasting is an essential part of our relationship with God. It wasn’t actually about starving myself, but about finding satisfaction for my soul-hunger! Each time I’ve fasted, I’ve gained a new understanding of God.

First, I’ve learned fasting can bring true repentance.

In Joel 2:12-14, the Lord exhorted Israel to fast, mourn, and weep as an expression of turning their hearts back to Him. Setting aside the sustenance their bodies required symbolized the people’s realization of their desperate need for God that surpassed their physical desires. 

God’s emphasis was on capturing Israel’s heart,
not on asking them to put on a faux “godly appearance”.
“Tear your hearts, not just your clothes, and return to the Lord your God.” (Joel 2:13a)

This call to fasting as an expression of deep spiritual conviction, rather than a shallow, false display of piety, is echoed and expanded to all believers in Jesus’ teaching.

“Whenever you fast, don’t be gloomy like the hypocrites. For they make their faces unattractive so their fasting is obvious to people. Truly I tell you, they have their reward. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that your fasting isn’t obvious to others but to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” (Matthew 6:16-18)

Whether expressed in private moments with our Father, or as a time of communal repentance, fasting turns our hearts from the idol of self. Selfishness wrecks the intimacy we can share with God, but fasting reveals our lusting desires to pursue ourselves and our attempt to wrest control of our lives. Denying our physical bodies shifts our attention onto the One who fully satisfies us because He alone is “gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, and abounding in faithful love.” (Joel 2:13b)

Next, fasting can be a sign of authentic worship.

As infant Jesus is dedicated at the temple in Jerusalem, we meet Anna, an elderly widow who dedicated her life to fasting and praying as an expression of authentic worship.

“There was also a prophetess, Anna [. . .] She did not leave the temple, serving God night and day with fasting and prayers. At that very moment, she came up and began to thank God and to speak about him to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.”
(Luke 2:36-38)

Anna was an authentic worshiper of Christ, privileged to be one of the first in His life. A lifetime devoted to fasting and prayer prepared her spirit to recognize her Savior in the unlikeliest of forms, a newborn. After 400 years of silent prophets, an elderly, vulnerable, poor widow gives voice to the words of the Lord, giving thanks and declaring the arrival of Jesus.

Third, fasting magnifies our true need in life, God.

Every time I have fasted, I’ve been reminded of the reality that without God, I am nothing.
He is my sustainer,
He is my redeemer,
He is the answer to all my questions.

For me, fasting has been a way to literally empty myself and fill up with only Christ.
Fasting, then, is a physical representation of our spiritual lives.

When we are empty and hurting, we should turn our eyes, hearts, and minds to Christ, because only in Him will we receive our deepest needs.

Jesus demonstrated this truth in a shocking conversation with a Samaritan woman near a well.

“Jesus said, ‘Everyone who drinks from this water will get thirsty again. But whoever drinks from the water that I will give him will never get thirsty again. In fact, the water I give him will become a well of water springing up in him for eternal life.’” (John 4:13-14)

Later, the discussion continues among His disciples…

“In the meantime, the disciples kept urging him, ‘Rabbi, eat something.’ But he said, ‘I have food to eat that you don’t know about [. . .] My food is to do the will of Him who sent me and to finish His work,’ Jesus told them.” (John 4:31-34, emphasis mine)

The only water that will quench the thirst of our spirits is the water of eternal life.
The only food that will satisfy our starving souls is doing the Father’s will.
In fasting, we abandon the physical in pursuit of the eternal.

Finally, I know many believers who’ve chosen to fast from physical desires other than food. True fasting worshipers set aside that which has consistently pulled their attention away from God. They actively turn from idols in their lives and replace them with praying and reading God’s word.

Sisters, I encourage you to practice this spiritual discipline. Fasting is a powerful way to renew and refresh our relationship with God and deepen our faith and trust in Him. In fasting, we proclaim Christ as the sole-supplier of our greatest need, Himself.

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The GT Weekend! ~ Training Week 2

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The GT Weekend!

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

Worship Through Journaling

Worship Through Journaling

1) I find that being still is difficult. To me, stillness has the appearance of lazy idleness. When I want to be lazy, it’s easy to be still. When I purposely set aside time to be still and seek the Lord in the quiet, my mind naturally races. The enemy of our souls leverages our easily-distracted-from-God sin nature to draw us away from sitting silently in God’s presence. As Kaitlyn reminded us, being still doesn’t mean emptying our minds. Rather, biblical meditation involves resting in God’s presence. I have a few friends who enjoy walking prayer labyrinths. It keeps them moving forward without the distraction of navigating where they are going. A prayer labyrinth provides a simple path without obstacle for feet, so one’s mind and heart can focus more deeply on prayer and Scripture meditation. Practicing stillness in prayer is important because we become so busy talking to and lamenting to God with our litany of requests we fail to shut off the noise and listen instead. How will you practice biblical meditation this weekend? Try finding a local trail to meander and pray. If weather keeps you inside, light a candle and find a dark place where you can sit and focus on the light while repeating truths about God.

2) Our sin-nature, if not consistently surrendered before the Lord Jesus, will rule over us. (Romans 6:12-14) As people who have been forgiven and turned away from our sin, we are called to offer the whole of our lives to God through the power of His Spirit in us. Often overlooked, but absolutely non-negotiable for a life that brings glory to God, is our willingness to live within biblical community. We were handcrafted by the Triune God to live together in humble unity with other brothers and sisters who have also been forgiven and have the Spirit living within them. Do you belong to a local church? Are you committed to seeing her flourish in your city and reach others with the hope and freedom offered in Jesus? Do you serve alongside other Christians in your church? Reflect on your prayer life and evaluate how frequently you commit dedicated time to interceding for other believers. Take time this weekend to connect with a believing friend and plan time to share coffee or a meal together, then spend the time sharing how God is teaching you and shaping your heart. This rich encouragement of sharing authentic life together is how we build community within Christ’s Body, His Church.

3) I found Sarah’s Journey Study to be a bit quite convicting as the Holy Spirit shone His truth on my heart from Scripture! Consistent Bible-reading and study can seem daunting, but we must remember that the enemy would like nothing better than to derail us in our relationship with Christ by shifting our focus from His Truth. Scripture study is absolutely essential for our spiritual wellbeing. Proverbs 4:20-22 instructs us to heed God’s Word with focused intentionality and purpose. Paul exhorts us to train our minds to meditate on whatsoever is true, honorable, just, and the like! (Philippians 4:8-9) Take up Paul’s challenge this weekend and use his list of wholly good things as the focus point for your thought life. This requires disciplined training! Look up those two verses in Philippians and ponder their meaning for your everyday life. Sometimes, I find myself quick to keep Scripture foremost in my mind, while in other seasons, my lack of disciplined training exposes my eager distraction to focus on what isn’t good, pure or truthful. These seasons consistently produce worry and anxiety. How I respond to life circumstances is directly related to my willingness to practice the discipline of feasting on Scripture!

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 2 Timothy 3:14-17 back to the Lord and
let His Spirit speak to you through it!

But as for you, continue in what you have learned and firmly believed. You know those who taught you, and you know that from infancy you have known the sacred Scriptures, which are able to give you wisdom for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

Prayer Journal
Lord, forgive me, create in me a clean heart. (Psalm 51:10) I have become distracted with all the busy of life and closed off my time from You. You desire a deep relationship with me, but I’ve neglected time spent with You by reading and studying Your Word. I confess the times I have only studied your Word when I’ve prepared to teach or write instead of as my guide in all of life. I have neglected to come before You with nothing on my agenda except to listen to You. I know You hold the richest of all joys, stir up in me the desire to be fully present with You in worship and prayer. I know from experience there is nothing as sweetly tender and full of awe as basking in Your presence as Joshua did in the Tent of Meeting. (Exodus 33:11) Teach me to silence my “runaway train” thoughts, my worries, constant to-do list, so I will clearly hear Your still small voice. (1 Kings 19:11-12)

Worship Through Community

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Worship Through Prayer

Worship Through Music

Training Day 10 Our Wandering Hearts

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Read His Words Before Ours!

John 1:1-8
Deuteronomy 6:1-6
Proverbs 4:20-22
Psalm 1:1-3
2 Timothy 3:14-17

Training, Day 10

I believe every Christ-follower wants to do what Scripture says. We want to succeed and be happy in life, but it doesn’t always happen. We find ourselves struggling with issues that weigh us down or sins we seem unable to avoid. Have you ever heard the Scriptures preached and it clearly addresses your sin issue? At such times, we become convicted and think we will never depart from the good teaching. Yet, after a while, we forget easily.

I have noticed that often, when we neglect the Scripture for a period, it is easy for us to lose the focus of our journey with God. It is not surprising then, that upon their entrance into the land He promised them, God urged Israel’s leader, Joshua, “This book of instruction must not depart from your mouth; you are to meditate on it day and night so that you may carefully observe everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in whatever you do.” (Joshua 1:8)

With the Spirit’s power to teach and convict, the Scripture guards us from sin and grants us access to knowing God’s heart. Hebrews 4:12 tells us, “For the word of God is living and effective and sharper than any double-edged sword, penetrating as far as the separation of soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”

Now, what makes the word living and active? John 1:1-8 reveals that the Word existed in the beginning with God, and the Word was God. The whole creation was executed through Him, and there was nothing created apart from Him. In Him was life, and that life was the light of men; the Word became flesh and lived among men. John 1:16 continues, “Indeed, we have all received grace upon grace from His fullness, for the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.”

The text reveals Jesus Christ is the Word who existed in the beginning, through whom everything was created. What does this mean in real life?

Scripture, which is the written word, works powerfully in us because it points us to Jesus Christ, the living Word.

Jesus, the living Word, is the subject matter of the written word.

If we cannot do without Christ, the living Word, then we cannot do without the written word, in which Christ is the main focus.

When we study Scripture and meditate on it always, it stays in our hearts and helps us keep in contact with Jesus, “the pioneer and perfecter of our faith.” (Hebrews 12:2)

Having the word in us enables us to overcome temptations and live victoriously in our faith. We know that as long as we are in this world, Satan is bound to tempt us again and again. If he could tempt Jesus, who would he not tempt? Jesus’ response to temptation was to use Scripture; by this, He overcame fiery darts of the devil. (Matthew 4:1-11, Ephesians 6:16) Jesus replied to Satan, “It is written,” and then quoted a portion of Scripture relevant to the temptation at hand. If Jesus needed the Scripture to fight temptation, how much more do we need it?

There is no doubt we need Scripture settled in our hearts. Psalm 1:1-3 reveals the happiness of those who delight in the Lord’s instructions and meditate on them; they are like trees planted beside flowing streams. They prosper because they receive nourishment from the Word.

How do we meditate on Scripture so we will not depart from it? Dr. Ralph Wilson, one of my favorite writers, shares these guidelines, “Bible study takes a longer block of uninterrupted time. The real key to Bible study is being inquisitive, learning to ask questions of the text. First, read the passage. Then be a detective; look for clues. What’s going on? What stands out to you?”

Following his advice, I usually choose a single book or a topic and study it in-depth. Often, I spend at least an hour, and early morning time is best for me. I read a portion of Scripture more than once, and pause; I think over it again and again. In doing so, a message from the Scripture captures my mind. Then, I consult some commentaries, which provide a more thorough understanding. I will then task myself to think over the message throughout the day. For example, recently I was studying Philippians 4:8, which encourages us to think about what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and praiseworthy. As I went about my day, I asked the Spirit to guide my thoughts along those virtues. This requires self-discipline and practice, but simply begin practicing and find the delight the Spirit brings as you grow!

We cannot overemphasize the significance of meditating on Scripture; it is the only way we can succeed in keeping God’s word in our hearts. When we have the word in our hearts, the Spirit enables us to act on it, and we will grow deeply in our faith journey!

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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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Training Day 9 The Necessity of Together: Digging Deeper

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Digging Deeper Days

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

Yesterday’s Journey Study connects with today’s!
Check out The Necessity of Together!

The Questions

1) What does it mean to be filled with awe? (verse 43)

2) Verse 44 says “the believers held all things in common”. How is this feasible in a practical sense?

3) Were believers actually selling property and possessions? What are the implications for all Christ-followers? (verse 45)

Acts 2:42-47

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and signs were being performed through the apostles. Now all the believers were together and held all things in common. They sold their possessions and property and distributed the proceeds to all, as any had need. Every day they devoted themselves to meeting together in the temple, and broke bread from house to house. They ate their food with joyful and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. Every day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.

Original Intent

1) What does it mean to be filled with awe? (verse 43)
Let’s start with ensuring we understand what the word “awe” means. Merriam-Webster’s defines awe as “an emotion variously combining dread, veneration, and wonder that is inspired by authority or by the sacred or sublime; astonishment or wonder”. In other words when we see something beyond description, (like an incredible mountain range) we might say, “That is awesome!”. However, the word “awe” used in the Gospels and Acts, comes from the Greek phobos [fovbo”], which is commonly used as the word for fear. In our passage, “awe” is describing the people’s reaction to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. This is the same word used in Luke 7:11-16 (verse 16 specifically) to describe how the people felt after Jesus raised a young man from death to life. Like so many times when reading the Bible, it’s imperative we have the proper context to understand the specific verses we are studying. In Acts, it’s important to start at the beginning of Acts 2 to understand the word usage and its reasoning. Acts 2:1-4 provides detailed explanation of the day of Pentecost and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit for the first time. I can only imagine the numerous feelings and experiences these people encountered that day! Because we’ve read in context, we understand that to be filled with awe meant something fairly impossible to understand or describe unless you were there. Awe is the one word Luke chose in his attempt to describe the impossible. The joy, fear and absolute amazement of encountering the Spirit of the Living God in real, everyday life!

2) Verse 44 says “the believers held all things in common”. How is this feasible in a practical sense?
A better question is how could they not hold all things in common? Consider what had transpired within weeks of their shared time together. Jesus, the man they thought would be their earthly King had been crucified. Yet, just when they had lost all hope, Jesus rose victoriously from the dead! Their hope was astoundingly restored, but only a short time later, Jesus left again telling them it was actually better for them if He returned to His throne in Heaven so the Holy Spirit could come and dwell within them. (John 16:7) Not knowing what the Holy Spirit would be like surely left them utterly confused and, again, on the brink of losing hope. When the Spirit arrived in a mighty, powerful display of God’s authority, their response was to be bound together in His powerful unity. Having walked through the past few months together, the highs, lows and absolutely amazing events had connected them together, but, even the bond of shared experiences wanes over time. The power Source that kept them connected and equipped them to share all their needs and abundances together “in common” was the power of the Living God indwelling them.

3) Were believers actually selling property and possessions? What are the implications for all Christ-followers? (verse 45)
Yes! This community of believers was fired up for Jesus! They were willing to make huge sacrifices in order to share what they had experienced and stay together. Check out what Acts 4:32-37 says: “Now the entire group of those who believed were of one heart and mind, and no one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but instead they held everything in common. 33 With great power the apostles were giving testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was on all of them. 34 For there was not a needy person among them because all those who owned lands or houses sold them, brought the proceeds of what was sold, 35 and laid them at the apostles’ feet. This was then distributed to each person as any had need. 36 Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus by birth, the one the apostles called Barnabas (which is translated Son of Encouragement), 37 sold a field he owned, brought the money, and laid it at the apostles’ feet.” Talk about commitment!

 

Everyday Application

1) What does it mean to be filled with awe? (verse 43)
The meaning of “awe” hasn’t changed, but I wonder if we’ve lost our ability to recognize it or understand our experiences through the lens of God’s awe-inspiring work. Sure, it’s easy to be in “awe” when we see wondrous and beautiful things like a brilliant sunset across the ocean or snow-covered mountain peaks. When other miraculous things in life occur, however, it seems we are quick to give credit and awe to everyone except God. In December of 2020, my family faced an insurmountable medical expense. My husband had injured his back and required surgery, but we had a major obstacle. We had no medical insurance at the time and the surgeon needed to be paid up front. Having no idea what to do, we were considering all sorts of options including asking our church for help. One night, a friend called and asked if she could visit. Little did we realize the reason for her call was to deliver an envelope of cash containing contributions from many. The amount not only covered the medical bill, but also the loss of income my husband would face post-surgery. Talk about being in awe! Our entire family sat stunned to tears because we had no words. God had a plan all along and we had no need to worry or be anxious because God had us covered! Experiences like these build and reinforce our “awe” of God. My challenge for us is that we would each prayerfully ask God to help us live with eyes wide open so we don’t miss His Awe; I am convinced the evidence of His awe-inspiring works are all around us, we just miss it because we don’t look for, or expect, to see His awesomeness.

2) Verse 44 says “the believers held all things in common”. How is this feasible in a practical sense?
The early church described in this passage had the right idea about living in true, biblical community. In fact, we could learn much from them if we are willing. I can’t help but think of sports teams when I read passages like this because guys, we are all on the same team, “Team Jesus”! We all should be working for the same goal of advancing the Kingdom of Jesus and share His love with everyone. However, what often happens instead is that we work hard advancing our own little kingdoms and agendas. We are more focused on what we think is right and proving others wrong than we are on sharing the love of Jesus with everyone we meet. (Even good intentions somehow get skewed and begin trying to prove our church is better than yours) – when we should be promoting each other’s churches. Because you know what? WE ARE ON THE SAME TEAM! We have a common goal! We also have a common enemy, who is a master at distraction and division. And we have got to stop allowing him to win! Paul addressed something similar in his first letter to the Corinthians. I would encourage you to read all of Chapter 3, but for sake of time and space let’s look at verse 5-6 which says “What then is Apollos? What is Paul? They are servants through whom you believed, and each has the role the Lord has given. 6 I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth.” Do you see it? The church was fighting over who brought them to faith, but Paul is pointing out that he and Apollos are simply working in the roles God assigned – Paul lays the foundation which is Jesus and Apollos waters and God grows! They are playing on the same team with the same goal! They had “all things in common”.

3) Were believers actually selling property and possessions? What are the implications for all Christ-followers? (verse 45)
This is a tough question to answer today because there are those who have in fact been called by God to sell all that they have for the sake of the Kingdom. For some that may mean moving overseas as a missionary, for others that may mean moving into the urban core to meet the needs and share Jesus in their own city. However, for others it may mean using what God has blessed you with to open your homes in your own community, inviting others in, holding Bible studies, etc… It may mean you forgo that brand new car and buy used so that you can give some of that money away. For others it may mean quitting that high paying job, to work at your church or spend more time with your family. Going back to 1 Corinthians, this time chapter 12:4-7 “Now there are different gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 There are different ministries, but the same Lord. 6 And there are different activities, but the same God works all of them in each person. 7 A manifestation of the Spirit is given to each person for the common good:” Guys – use the gifts, resources and opportunities God has given you, not your best friend or spouse, but you to work for Him to the best of your ability.

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Digging Deeper is for Everyone!

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

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Why Dig Deeper?

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

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

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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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