1) Do a little self-examination by pulling out a sheet of paper and writing “worship” at the top. Next, write down as many words come to you in the span of 120 seconds. There are no wrong answers; write everything! As you look back over your words, circle the ones that fall into alignment with how Jesus defines authentic worshippers in John 4:23-24. Those who worship in spirit (with the whole of their being, heart, soul, mind, and strength) and in truth (all the Bible says about who God is and who we are). Which ones reflect a method of worship? Challenge yourself to think about other methods of worshipping in spirit and truth. Which descriptions did you write that reflect a more narrow view of worship dependent on a specific song, feeling, or environment? Ask the Lord to keep shaping your heart to worship Him in spirit and truth!

2)  In what ways do you relate to Marietta’s description of believers being pruned back, then crushed, and pressed in order to reap a harvest? Where have you experienced something similar where the Lord “cut back” or “cut off” areas in your life in the pruning process? What has been your heart response to the Holy Spirit as He has done this hard work in our hearts to make us more like Christ? As you reflect on the Holy Spirit’s work in you, consider what an excellent testimony He is building in you! Your hardship will be redeemed for rich good! Every time the Spirit prunes, crushes, and presses our hearts, it is an opportunity for God’s glory to be on display in our lives. Like Marietta encourages, let’s choose to praise God for this gift, even in the middle of the pruning, crushing, and pressing! Start practicing praise today!!

3)  “Walking around these walls, I thought by now they’d fall”, are the opening lyrics Leslie explored in her Journey Study yesterday. I know I can raise my hand that, YES, I have asked the same question. Sometimes, I’ve asked in pleading, quiet prayers. At other times, I’ve bent over screaming in an open field, begging an answer to this lament. “I thought You would have healed.” “I thought you would have restored.” “I thought I would have seen redemption.” All of these prayers end in one frustrated statement, “by now”. How we wish the Lord would work on our timeframe and, if we’re honest, for our own glory. The long waiting between difficulty and restoration is full of tears and brokenness as we learn, oh so slowly, to trust the Savior over ourselves. What wall are you waiting to fall? How are you drawing near to the Lord as you wait for His redemption?