We’re on a journey of removing the idols of our hearts and replacing them with the true God, the One who truly can help us. Last week we had the before and after story of Marie, who was delivered from her idolatry of food — God transformed her heart, and her body!
This is a different kind of before and after journey, but one that is having a huge impact on me. It is the before and after of Karla Faye Tucker, a woman who was executed for a brutal crime, but in her fourteen years on death row impacted thousands because she was so TRANSFORMED by Christ. Everyone who even met her after Christ was moved by her radiance.
As some of you know, I have been working with Linda Strom, who was Karla’s mentor and biographer (Karla Faye: Set Free) to create a video curriculum for incarcerated women and women in shelters. I’d love for you to see the first video — for it include four minutes of Karla sharing her testimony. Please paste this in your browser: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jDSj388P0uA
I also want to show you another picture of Karla when she was first brought into prison — before Christ. She looks lifeless to me, in comparison to the vibrant woman above. We are also in awe that her prison number was 777 — the number associated with God. Surely God chose her to display His transforming power — not because she was lovely, but because He saw what she could become. He looks at you in the same way.
Here is Karla before:
In her testimony, which I hope you watch, she tells of how she didn’t even care that she had brutally murdered two people. But she began reading the Bible in prison, and had this amazing sense of being loved. Then she said God reached into her heart and pulled up the evil by the roots.
I have seen so much vibrancy, joy, and love for Christ within the prison walls. I never get a reception outside like I do in Linda’s faith dorms (these are two year prisons where prisoners who have shown the fruit of true repentance can grow, so they can go back to their prisons and mentor others.) They are jumping up and down when they see us coming. So many, despite losing comfort, control, and approval are radiant with God’s love.
I have realized that while our idols seem to be friends — they keep us from intimacy with God. It isn’t just initially in salvation from the wrath of God, but every day. When we get in bed with an idol, we push away God. But when we let go, as Karla did, as the woman in our Bible passage did, we experiencing His transforming love.
Tim Keller has two great sermons on our passage. One is called Two Debtors, On Devotion; the other Love for The Outsider. (Go to Redeemer.com and sermons — you can just type in Luke 7 and they will come up. But they cost 2.50 each.)
1. If you watch the video, I’d love your comments, especially about Karla.
2. I want you to share a time in this journey, if possible, when you let go of control, comfort, or approval and experienced God.
Bible Study:
As a preface to this Bible study, this is an unnamed woman — a prostitute. She is neither Mary of Bethany (a similar incident, but right before Jesus crucifixion — this is early in the ministry) nor is she Mary Magdalene (Mary Magedeline was a demonic, not a prostitute.) She was a prostitute who had a tiny alabaster jar of perfume that she probably wore as a necklace, part of her trade, part of her allure. Simon, like Nicodemus, is curious about Jesus — but wants to keep it intellectual, wants to stay in control.
Read Luke 7:36-50
3. Describe the scene in Luke 7:36-37. Try to make it real by putting it in a contemporary context. Imagine Jesus dining at a fine restaurant with Simon in San Francisco… what might this scene look like in 2011?
4. What does Simon think in verse 39? What does this tell you also about Simon?
5. It’s always dangerous when Jesus says, “Let me tell you a story!” What is the story he tells in verses 41-43?
6. How does Jesus contrast the woman with Simon in verses 44-47?
Many feel that the point is that if you have terrible sins, like this woman, like Karla, that you will love more. But that is missing the point. What Simon could not see was the depth of his sin. He was in a sorry a state as this woman, he just couldn’t see it. If we could see the depth of our sin, how much we want to get in bed with our idols, how deep is our depravity — then we would better appreciate the depth of Christ’s forgiveness and love.
7. Has this study of idolatry turned the light on the depth of your sin? If so, share something about that.
8. Simon wanted to stay in control — to keep this intellectual. The woman is broken and spilled out. She is taking her tool of the trade, her perfume, and using it in a better way. Ponder these questions carefully:
A. How do you want to stay in control? How is the Lord speaking to you?
B. What reasons is Jesus whispering to you to let go?
C. Who experiences the most joy, the most peace, the most transformation?
9. In verses 48-50, what does Jesus say? Why does this surprise the people?
This reminds me also of the time Jesus asked, “What is harder — to forgive sins or to say take up your bed and walk?” I have only recently understand why He asked that. Of course it was much harder to forgive sins for it meant He has to go to the cross. This is something we must remember daily. We are loved — so deeply — so we can let go — let go of our idols and trust Jesus will meet us.
10. Give a progress report — any way you see God on the move.
11. What is your take-a-way this week?
Bible Study:
92 comments
Welcome everyone — thanks for your prayers for Bemidji — it did go well. Small but hungry group and twelve raised hands to trust Christ.
I just approved this comment and this gal joining us for first time, but you might miss her comment on last week’s post as it came in last night, so I’m putting it here:
Hi everyone! I need prayers! I am really in a low pit and I need God to pull me out of it! Thank you!
Janelle
Lord I pray You will comfort Janelle, that this new morning will bring her new hope, that she will feel Your presence in her struggle right now, show Yourself to her, Lord.
Dear Janelle, Keep putting your faith and trust in God and he will pull you out of the pit. I will be praying for you.
Everyone — I feel so badly that somehow I missed approving this first comment from Laura — who seems like she will be an amazing addition. She posted this three weeks ago — so I hope she will see this and rejoin us. Lord — please find her.
Laura Smith says:
March 8, 2011 at 6:38 pm
Hello everyone :)! My name is Laura. I came across this blog after reading one of Dee’s books which was referred to me by a friend. Within 24 hours of having the book in my hands, I had finished it and my heart was deeply touched (Thank you Dee!), which led me to to this blog. As I was reading through all of the entires on the topic: More of a Heart of Flesh today I really felt the Lord leading me to participate in what the Lord is doing here in and through all of you. I am 20 years old and I am a sophomore in college. At the beginning of the semester, I had to move home from college because of financial and health reasons, so now I am an online student. It has not been easy for me making the transition from being at college to living back at home, but the Lord is faithful!
As I was spending time with the Lord today and really asking Him to show me the areas of sin and the idols in my life that need to go, I felt a little bit overwhelmed. I think I have all three of the idols in my life and each idol contains a lot of stones.
-Security/Comfort – I really struggle with laziness and procrastination especially when it comes to spending time with the Lord, school work, and being motivated to doing things that I enjoy. Gluttony and over-eating have always seemed to loom around me and be an idol in my life. For years, I was addicted to food which led to years of being enslaved to an eating disorder and while the Lord has given me victory over that, there are still parts of it that I have not completely crushed yet.
-Affirmation/Approval-Being a woman, I want to be married and I look forward to that day with great anticipation and while that desire can be healthy, I have made it an unhealthy desire in my life.
-Control/Power-I struggle in this area more than I had realized. I have a sin habit of pride and having to defend myself or justify my actions rather than being humble and apologizing. I have a sin habit of complaining, manipulation, and being overly critical of people, especially my family. I struggle with anger and often times I take that anger out on other people. I also with struggle with controlling myself through perfectionism, feeding myself lies, and not allowing myself to be free or enjoy life or love myself.
As I was listening to the sermon by Tim Keller (which was very challenging and thought provoking – I really enjoyed it!) I realized how upset I get with myself when I do not just stop sinning. My hearts desire is intimacy with the Lord and purity before Him, but sometimes I get so annoyed with myself because I just cannot seem to get it right or I cannot seem to stop sinning in a particular area, but I felt really encouraged by what Tim Keller said: “If you feel the fight is is a sign of life and a sign of growth and a sign that God is working in you.” After listening to his sermon, I felt a sigh of relief. There is so much beauty in Keller’s words.
Keller also said: “When you look at your sins and get a deeper knowledge of your sin and you are lead to despair, I have to begin to ask you on what basis do you believe God loves you? Your efforts? Your moral excellence or meeting standards?” I know that God loves me, but subconsciously I have it engraved that it is about my efforts or being perfect – and I think that comes from the perfectionist standards I have for myself.
As I was writing the above at one point I asked myself if I was yet again being to hard on myself or being to perfectionist, but I really felt the Lord saying that this isn’t. It could feel like it because well owning our sin does not normally feel good all of the time. But this is me unmasking my sin – this is me being ruthless with myself and not allowing myself to make excuses or hide behind the sin in my life.
None of these idols is worth what the Lord is. And I am tired of grieving the Holy Spirit and breaking the Lord’s heart. None of my sin is worth it. I want to do whatever it takes. My heart’s desire is for more intimacy with the Lord. And that is where I am headed and I am going to smash every single idol that wants to get in the way of that. Psalm 73:25-26 says,
“25 Whom have I in heaven but you?
And earth has nothing I desire besides you.
26 My flesh and my heart may fail,
but God is the strength of my heart
and my portion forever.”
I want to desire nothing but the Lord…I want more of Him and less of me. I want more of Him and less of everything else. I am excited to see where the Lord is going to take what He is stirring up inside my heart. God is just so stinking good :)! The sweetness of His love is so beautiful.
The stone in that I am going to work on this week is: my tongue. I feel the Lord is leading me to work on apologizing and being humble rather than defending myself or trying to justify my actions. As well as, really allowing Him to remove the negative and critical things that I say to people, especially my family and then allowing Him to replace it with words of love and words the will build up, rather than tear down.
Other comments from the Bible Study:
Psalm 90:12 – I loved how the psalmist used the phrase “that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” When we come to the reality that our life is short and we start living that way, truly living that way, we gain a heart of wisdom because we understand what this life is about: an intimate love relationship with the Lord and out of that everything else flows.
Colossians 3:2 – I was reading out of the Amplified version which says, “And set your minds and keep them set on what is above (the higher things)…” I love the wording “keep them set.” I know for me I set my mind on the Lord and things above, but I do not always keep my mind there. It has to be a continual thing that is always being renewed.
Be encouraged sisters in Christ! The Lord is for you! I am praying for each of you and believing with great expectation that the Lord is going to amaze you with what He is going to do in and through each of you! 🙂
Welcome Laura! I too pray you find your way back to this wonderful fellowship here on this blog. I love your depth and honesty–your transparent heart.
Dear Laura,
Wow – you are “only” 20 years old, yet you possess a faith and wisdom that are way beyond your years. You are very in-depth and seeking God on a level that is very very mature. Welcome to our study, and may God richly reward your seeking after Him!
Praying Janelle! God sees you in this place. Hang tight to Him but remember even when you cannot He holds you.
Love your comments Laura and so glad you joined us. Love your wisdom. I pray you find your way back here as well! Praying for you too.
Laura, I agree with everyone else, you have a beautiful heart that is transparent and very wise, beyond your years. I wish I was as close to God as you are when I was 20! I will be praying for your health and financial problems and for you to give it all to the Lord.
1. Just finished watching the video. I too see Jesus in Karla. What a precious sister, wow! To see God’s transforming power through her totally brings Him glory. There is no way she could have transformed herself that way, only He can transform from the inside out and she was radiant with His beauty.
I must add that she is an example of: “For this reason I say to you, her sins, which are many, have been forgiven, for she loved much; but he who is forgiven little, loves little.”- Luke 7:47..
I just tried to watch it but it said video is not available.
sUSAN — TRY PASTING THIS INTO YOUR BROWSER:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jDSj388P0uA
My website manager is gone today — but he may be able to help me fix the link in this post — but try that because it is still working for me.
I think I’ve got it now, Dee! I’m going to wait to watch it later today when I can not be distracted and really savor it.
Just finished watching Karla’s video – I am amazed to see how God instilled in her that she needed to speak the truth, telling all the details of her crime, in order to be set free. Knowing that she would be put to death by disclosing these details, and still choosing to do so – this can only be of God! It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Karla’s focus was on eternity and not on her earthly life. Oh – to live my own life the way Karla chose to live hers. This is my prayer.
Amen, Carol..
Welcome Carol! Yes, yes, about Karla.
not sure what happend, i hit the tab button by mistake and it lost my entire post…no time to re-write. must have been more for me then for you all:)
in a nut shell, I am going to focus on MY INSIDE life this week instead of trying to control my OUTSIDE life.
Simon worked overtime to look good on the outside but didn’t care about inside, Mary did just the opposite.
Loved that video. It stirred me here: How God is using it in my life…
Love the story of adoption…We are in the process of adopting now and I keep wavering in it. Love this story and it reaffirms what we are doing is right.
God is truly the God who works all things for our good. I have been thinking about how it was probably wrong for Naomi’s husband to move them out of the land of promise into Moab of all places. Then if was wrong for her sons to marry moabite women. Those things were wrong. However God knew Ruth needed to be met. He already
had it in His plan to make her His own. He used probably wrong moves on his children’s part for good to bring Ruth in. Then to put her in the line of Christ is even more amazing!! A true Romans 8:28-29 story So interesting that no matter what we do we can never mess up His plan. Never ever ever even in our mistakes.
About Karla-Wow! Amazing story. Did love that the true freedom for her in Christ would come with telling the truth. That truth would keep her behind steel bars but set her heart free from any bars. Loved her story and what a true transformation in Christ looks like. Can I share this video link with a couple of ladies I know who work in prison ministry? I do too from time to time but motherhood obligations has limited this for me in this season.
My journey…I feel such peace and freedom from my heart idols right now. My pastor has been going through Ecclesiastes and it has been wonderful fitting with these lessons love God’s perfect timing. I released all those things I was holding onto yesterday. I am not grasping anymore. All I want is more of HIM. I see Him moving and working all around me and am trying to be thankful in all situations and circumstances. Receiving all as a gift from Him. Been reading 1000 gifts as well by Voskamp. Love this lightness I feel in it. I pray my eyes stay focused on Him alone. My hubbie is helping me on this journey as well. So thankful. He is noticing when I am starting to tense about things and helping me let it go. Very excited about that.
Such richness in your life right now. Ecclesiastes, One Thousand Gifts — and it is pouring out of you.
THIS MINISTERED TO ME SO MUCH THIS MORNING – JUST WHAT I NEEDED TO HEAR: “NO MATTER WHAT WE DO WE CAN NEVER MESS UP HIS PLAN. NEVER EVER EVER EVEN IN OUR MISTAKES”.
Blessings to you, Angela!
3.
Wow, that’s a powerful exercise here! I can imagine Simon and Jesus, dressed in appropriate attire for this fine restaurant…music playing softly, candlelight, delicious food. And she approaches, she feels she is unworthy, she feels the stares upon her, so she comes up behind him, but she cannot hold back. She knows this is Jesus, and she falls humbly to His feet. Her tears pour out uncontrollably, it is a moment where she is taken by the Spirit—it is beyond her thoughts or plans, she just breaks.
It reminds me of Rebecca mentioned the other day about breaking out in praise to Him—I have had similar experiences (and I’m not a very good singer!), when I just cannot hold back–feeling led to praise Him in song. Recently my husband and kids and I were away for the weekend. We went out on the beach one night and the breeze, the sky, the sunset was so amazing, I began to sing the doxology “praise God from whom all blessings flow…” and my 2 young children and husband naturally put out their hands to hold, the 4 of us sang together aloud and I felt in that moment like my tears of gratitude had hit His feet.
I was playing “Power in the Blood” bt the Statler Brothers in the car today and Kendra wanted to play it over and over and wanted me to copy it for her when we got home , so she has been playing it in her room over and over! Love it!!
Elizabeth: Love these pictures you have painted from Scripture and your family.
Joyce: So sweet about Kendra!
3. Describe the scene in Luke 7:36-37. Try to make it real by putting it in a contemporary context. Imagine Jesus dining at a fine restaurant with Simon in San Francisco… what might this scene look like in 2011?
* Wow, what a good question. I am picturing a nice restaurant, with Jesus and Simon eating/talking, then this woman comes in who doesn’t fit in, and doesn’t belong in this atmosphere, a prostitute who is dressed very scantily, short skirt, high heeled boots, tight shirt, weary countenance- cold face, hair up in a clip..Everything about her is foreign to everyone there and they are disgusted that she would even be in a place like that to ruin their time there..There is a sense of embarrassment among the patrons, and a major unsettled feeling about her being there. She had to sneak in because they wouldn’t have let her in. Simon sees her gets uncomfortable and inwardly desires for her to go away. He assumes Jesus would too-like everyone else-looking down on her like she is dirt, scum, worthless, yet she sees Jesus and falls at his feet crying, broken and inside Jesus bursts with love and compassion for her while Simon sits in his piety disgusted at the sight..Jesus lovingly puts his hands on her back and bends toward her as she kisses his feet.
Well done, Rebecca!
4. What does Simon think in verse 39? What does this tell you also about Simon?
* Simon is being controlled by the idol of approval and it blinded him in seeing who Jesus was and in seeing the depths of his own sin problem.
5. It’s always dangerous when Jesus says, “Let me tell you a story!” What is the story he tells in verses 41-43?
* The story of the two debtors. One owed more than the other and they both couldn’t pay it back so the lender forgave them both. Jesus asked which one would love him more.
6. How does Jesus contrast the woman with Simon in verses 44-47?
* I stand corrected on the way I have seen this for so many years! This passage is so rich, as Dee stated below:
“Many feel that the point is that if you have terrible sins, like this woman, like Karla, that you will love more. But that is missing the point. What Simon could not see was the depth of his sin. He was in a sorry a state as this woman, he just couldn’t see it. If we could see the depth of our sin, how much we want to get in bed with our idols, how deep is our depravity — then we would better appreciate the depth of Christ’s forgiveness and love.”
* I think Jesus saw them both the same in their need of Him and His forgiveness yet Simon saw it differently because his god was blinding him to the depths of his sin. The prostitute saw the depths of her sin and saw her need for forgiveness. There were other prostitutes who didn’t see this, who wouldn’t have fallen at Jesus’ feet, so the ‘types’ of sin isn’t the issue, it is seeing the depths of our sin..We are all deeply laden with it..All of us and we all need to fall at his feet broken every day. It humbles me.
So good, Rebecca.
4. What does Simon think in verse 39? What does this tell you also about Simon?
Simon thinks Jesus must not be a prophet because obviously He does not know what kind of woman she is.
+This tells me Simon did not know who Jesus really is, it shows not just a lack of faith to me, but a denial of who Christ is, and tells me Simon was judgmental.
5. It’s always dangerous when Jesus says, “Let me tell you a story!” What is the story he tells in verses 41-43?
+About 2 men who each had a debt—one 10x more than the other. Both debts were canceled and Jesus asks which one will love the lender more—the one with the greater debt.
In His story, it is easy for the men to identify which one had the greater debt–counting money is clear-cut. In our lives, we so often look at outside appearance of sin and try to judge who has the greater sin/debt…but Jesus point is that it is not about the size of the sin, it is our perception of it.
The more we recognize our depravity, our deep rooted sin against Him, the more we realize what He has done for us, the more we can truly experience gratitude and love for Him.
6. How does Jesus contrast the woman with Simon in verses 44-47?
+The woman had given far more to Jesus than Simon had. She recognized the depth of her sin, she broke at His feet. She also recognized Who He is.
It is not that her sin was greater, but that her love was greater. Her love was greater because she got it—she knew the depths of her sinfulness, her unworthiness, and she knew Who Jesus was.
I imagine in her position, she had to be very self-protective to survive, she wore a thick mask to deal with the scorn of others, the pain she had to cover…but here, it is all removed. She is unveiled before Him.
He wants Simon to get it—He loves Simon and is investing time in him, but Simon sees only the surface.
Many feel that the point is that if you have terrible sins, like this woman, like Karla, that you will love more. But that is missing the point. What Simon could not see was the depth of his sin. He was in a sorry a state as this woman, he just couldn’t see it. If we could see the depth of our sin, how much we want to get in bed with our idols, how deep is our depravity — then we would better appreciate the depth of Christ’s forgiveness and love.
7. Has this study of idolatry turned the light on the depth of your sin? If so, share something about that.
Somewhere a few weeks back in our study, I began to see how my sin of idolatry had become so justified in my mind. Whether it was control of others by persuasion and criticism, or my seeking comfort by not altering “my time”. I began to see how this is sin, sin that grieves Him, and rather than just accept it as humanness, I began to see that He desires to set me free. And that the only way to be freed, is to replace my trust in plans and control, with trusting in Him, His ways, His plans.
The boys are up eating breakfast..Hubby walks in the door and I can’t get this scene out of my head..The thought occurred to me that this is crucial in being set free from idols-seeing the true depths of our sin. Yes we see this when we first come to know Him, but we forget..I think that this is the thrust of the repentance/faith combustion cycle, and I can see even more so why God hates pride.
Also, it really puts into place a desire to love others and to show them mercy as I see the depths of my sin..HARD to put into words..As I saw the prison video and saw the women’s faces as Dee was speaking it melted my heart..Their hurt, their brokenness and a few cold faces that I knew God wanted to touch..Jesus bending down to these precious women, putting his hands on them and holding them as they fall at his feet..I don’t want to be Simon..Oh Lord I don’t want to be Simon..Yet I see him in me..Lord clean me of that and bring me to repentance..Thank you..
8. Simon wanted to stay in control — to keep this intellectual. The woman is broken and spilled out. She is taking her tool of the trade, her perfume, and using it in a better way. Ponder these questions carefully:
A. How do you want to stay in control? How is the Lord speaking to you?
I want to stay in control by managing my time, my family’s schedule—all that sounds fine but if you knew the anxiety in me about it, it’s not. I fear the unknown, the spontaneous, the interruptions of life…I want everything to stay steady and calm, manageable, but I want it with a passion, it is my golden idol, I picture this ugly golden trophy of some sort of perfect wife/mother/balanced life idol, I cling to it.
B. What reasons is Jesus whispering to you to let go?
He wants me to let it go because He wants me to experience ALL of Him. I can look at the places in my life I finally let go—especially in our adoptions—and I LOVE what he gave me, I LOVE our story. When I tell my kids to trust me on something, and I point out “wasn’t I right about this…” to help them trust me…I imagine the ways He could say that same thing to me. My life is a reflection of His graciousness and in the areas I look back and see where I did release, those are the most beautiful parts of my story.
C. Who experiences the most joy, the most peace, the most transformation?
The one who is completely surrendered. I don’t want to be Simon! I don’t want to miss out. I want to be her—broken, humble, spilled out at His feet—not in desperation but in praise.
I have been to catered dinners where there are lots of woman in the same outfit doing their best to be invisible…most people don’t even look up at their faces. I can picture Mary as one of those woman. willing to go across every social barrier in order to love on Jesus.
I wonder what I am willing to do, how uncomfortable am I willing to get, how much am i willing to stand out in a neg. way to people, just how humble am I willing to be in order to show Jesus how much I love him.
I am reminded of how He stooped to clean dirty feet!
great question Dee! I love the story of you daughter Joyce! so cool.
wish I could spend more time with ya-all but Lily was up all night with a 104 fever and I need to keep a close eye on her.
May the Lord touch Lily — and strengthen you, Cyndi!
HE has, and is giving me strength. thank-you Lily is much better, Abby is down now….:) if you don’t laugh you cry…so if you hear hysterical laughter coming from Ohio, you will know why:):):)
God is good, Im feeling healthy, and I am so thankful for all my sick blessings!!!
I have spent the last couple of days catching up in my other study. As I mentioned before the 2 studies are intersecting in my life and I am excited about it. This morning I was studying the notes and composed a prayer for us as we study the word. I’m sorry if it seems off subject. I have not had time yet to read today’s comments. This comes from study of Isaiah 50:4-6.
Lord, as we study Your word may we follow the example of fruit born in the life of Your Servant who was diligent in study of the word and intimate fellowship with You. Jesus studied Your word from boyhood where He was found in Your house learning of You. He spent hours, instead of sleeping, in prayer and intimate fellowship with You His Father. Unlike many men before Him, He listened to Your voice and did not rebel, but obeyed at great cost to Himself. Out of His intimate knowledge of You came great discourses, challenges to Nicodemus the theologian and enlightening conversation with the Samaritan woman. Because of His close communion with You He was able to be a great comfort to those in need. He carried with Him the word that sustained the weary not out of practiced techniques but because of the practice of daily listening to the Word of God. May we as we seek to serve You also, possess an instructed tongue.
Question 8A. asks “How do you want to stay in control? How is the Lord speaking to you?” And #10. “Give a progress report – any way you see God on the move”.
As we’ve been examining our idols, I never thought I had a ‘big’ problem with power/control. I definitely identified the idols of affirmation/approval and comfort/security in my life. However, this morning, God revealed to me an issue of power and control. Before my son left for school today, we had a “verbal sparring” about matters of faith; my 17 year old is at a stage now where he seems to have turned away from the Lord, hardened his heart, and does not want me talking to him about God. “Don’t preach to me!” I also think he knows just the things to say to ‘push my buttons’. Most of the time, I don’t try to reason with him or argue, I know it’s of no use. But this morning I just couldn’t seem to help myself with using the verbal arguing approach.
Then my husband came downstairs, and it started with him, too! My husband is not a believer, and we’ve had many a contentious discussion about faith and God. He too will provoke me with saying things like, “See – that’s just ‘your way’ – you’d be one of those who would ‘drink the Kool-Aid'”.
After they both left, I had my quiet time and then prayer. I began to ask God to keep showing me those idols which get between me and God. I began to think about what happened this morning. I feel God brought to my mind Jesus’ interaction with the rich young ruler, who was asking Him how to get into heaven. When Jesus told him to sell his things and follow Him, the young man went away sad. And here’s the thing – Jesus didn’t run after him, or get angry at him; but Jesus loved him. I thought of how I often feel anger or frustration when I can’t make them see my point, when they don’t agree with me, when I can’t persuade them. That’s when I saw that I do have the idol of power and control in this situation. I do want to control what my son and my husband believe about God, but the truth is, I can’t. What’s worse, that’s a really poor reason to want them to believe. For whose sake do I want them to change their minds? For me, or for God? It should be for their salvation and for the glory of God, not for my control over them or to make my life easier.
I’ve been seeing God on the move in this way. I have been making the effort to spend time with Jesus every day since the start of Lent, although I confess I’ve missed a few appointments! I decided to replace Spurgeon’s devotional book with one I heard about through Revive Our Hearts radio program. The book is called The Incomparable Christ by J. Oswald Sanders. Nancy Leigh DeMoss is following the chapters of the book each day on the radio, too. This book is really ministering to me, making me see Jesus in new ways and beginning to warm the fire in my heart for Him. I feel I am drawing closer to Him. I want to bring Jesus into every situation and every encounter with people in my life, and the truth is, He IS REALLY THERE.
The closer we draw to Jesus, the more visible our sin becomes and also the depth at which our sin is becomes visible. I often think of Peter when Jesus first called him to be his disciple and become a fisher of men (Luke 5:1-11). When Peter saw the miracle of the many fish filling his nets (after a night of catching nothing), the first thing Peter does is “fall at Jesus’ knees and say: Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!” As we become aware of who Jesus is, we, too, see our sin. And the closer and closer we draw near to Jesus, the depth of our sin is revealed to us.
God is Holy and cannot look upon sin. As we become more like Jesus, day after day, the more holy we become and the more visible our sin becomes to us. I am grateful to the Holy Spirit for working in my life and revealing my sin and idols to me so that I may confess them to God and repentantly turn away from them. Hearing Jesus tell this woman, “Your sins are forgiven” and “Your faith has saved you; go in peace” – makes my day!!
Susan, I am praying for you. I have so been where you are. It is HARD, and so difficult. You are doing the right thing in cultivating your heart. If you can just love them and leave the rest to the Lord. I believe He works the deepest in their hearts when we turn them over to Him. I remind you of what you already know but need to hear. The Lord is husband to the widow and father to the fatherless.
Susan — this is a painful place and you are responding in repentance and faith, walking humbly with your God. I am so proud to call you my sister.
May the Lord give you strength and comfort, may He work in your men’s hearts, and may He give you peace.
In Jesus Name
Praying for you susan also.
Thank you Carol, Anne, and Dee for your prayers and encouragement; they lifted me up this morning!
I watched the video last night. First of all, I thought Dee’s teaching was powerful. Karla’s life is a reminder that, just like the apostle Paul called himself the chief of sinners, but wanted others to know that no sin is beyond the forgiveness of God. You could see the message resonating with many of the women in the audience.
1. The difference in Karla is definitely the greatest miracle of Jesus and what really blows my mind is that it has been repeated millions of times over the centuries. The dead live.
Having the before and after pictures is great but even if we did not have the before we would know. We have all seen the emotionless faces with dead eyes, not only without care but without hope. Karla was alive. There was such an array of emotions on her face. It was expressive with bright eyes and a ready smile, as close to how I would imagine Jesus as I have ever seen. She was a woman who heartlessly murdered 2 people and by her own admission did not care.
Karla was transformed into the likeness of Jesus. What I am wondering is how so many people come to Jesus and are changed but not transformed the way Karla was. I am the prime example, saved for over 25 years and was changed slowly but not so radically transformed. I think I am on the right track now though. At some point I heard you say Dee, that women in prison have had most of their idols removed for them. I think this is key to what I am wondering.
I think you are right, Anne. They have truly been stripped, humbled… Yet many struggle when they get out, just as we do. We all continually need to battle trusting in our idols. Won’t it be grand when, as Hosea says, one day he removes the names of the “Baals” from our mouths. No more struggle!
Oh, yes! How grand that will be.
During the night and early morning my heart was heavy for Elizabeth (I said Elizabeth, but I meant to say Susan — God knew!) and those of you in similar situations — when the husband and child you love are scoffing at the things of God. I know we must pray.
I’ve started watching these videos by Tim Keller on The Reason for God where he sits and responds to the questions and remarks of six articulate atheist/agnostics. Each of the six videos is just 20 minutes long and then there are questions. I know that the primary way God tells us to win family members is through our lives, through our gentle spirits, through our love. But in the same 1 Peter 3 passage, it also says to be ready to give an answer when someone asks about the hope within you. I do think these videos, even if watched alone — might do that. Or he has similar messages — or his book on that title.
I do believe the primary reason people reject Christ is moral rather than intellectual. So they make remarks that are not arguments but are designed to create an atmosphere of belittling the believer. That’s hard. Then I think in the same book of 1 Peter how Jesus committed Himself to the One who judges justly. I have a guide on 1 Peter, called A Woman of Confidence, that might be helpful.
My heart is with you, my prayers are with you, I am distressed with you, and I am praying for your wisdom, strength, and for God to melt the hearts of those you love who do not know Him.
8. Simon wanted to stay in control — to keep this intellectual. The woman is broken and spilled out. She is taking her tool of the trade, her perfume, and using it in a better way. Ponder these questions carefully:
A. How do you want to stay in control? How is the Lord speaking to you?
* I have always hated the phrase, “She is ‘sold out’ to Jesus”.. It is a pet peave of mine. 🙂 I don’t mean to offend by the way, just being honest. I am learning that I can’t be ‘sold out’ rather I need to be ‘broken and spilled out’, DAILY. I didn’t do anything to produce any form of righteousness in me, HE DID IT ALL! 🙂 I don’t grow me, He does.
When I see the depths of my sin and when I see Jesus’ holiness..I can’t explain how humble that makes me inside and how thankful I am. How could I not be deeply, deeply thankful for His forgiveness and love..How could I not bask in the truth that a Holy God died for me-a wretched sinner-a murderer and prostitute like Karla and this woman in scripture..How could that not melt me inside? Well, I am in a season where I am thankful, but the old man still calls me to come, and there are days even in this season that I am not thankful and I want to be in control and it is evident when I carry an attitude of frustration about something or anger and hold on to it.
B. What reasons is Jesus whispering to you to let go?
* Jesus is wanting me to trust that He is going to continue transforming me now that He is freeing me from my idol’s deception, and I am actually thankful for the mess my idols put me in because I think my walk with Him is deeper than it even was when I first came to know Him..He is freeing me to go to Him with my near sins and to not be ashamed because He won’t condemn me and He already knows I sinned and what the sin is. He is the God of creation, He made me, He is all knowing, He died for me, He loves me deeply, more than I can even fathom and He is Holy, perfect. As this happens He will help me to grow more intimate with Him and then as He fills me up it will spill out of me onto others and the gospel will go out. WHen I am in bed with my idols my intimacy with Him is hindered and the gospel is therefore hindered.
C. Who experiences the most joy, the most peace, the most transformation?
* It sure isn’t the person who has managed to self sustain their walk with Jesus, rather the person who is like the prostitute who is broken and spilled out daily and can be open and transparent about it to others so they can see how Jesus changed her life. She won’t care what others think about her struggle rather she will have such overwhelming thankfulness to Jesus for freeing her and redeeming her and such peace and joy knowing and resting in the fact that it is He who does the work transforming hearts that she won’t be afraid to tell of her struggle and how He freed her. I see this with Karla and especially so when she said she ‘brutally’ murdered two people..She didn’t sugar coat it, she told the truth because she was transformed and feared God over man. As a result God was glorified through it. God does that, not us. We don’t work to bring Him glory, We live our lives at His feet and He does the work in and through us to glorify Himself to others.
Rebecca — beautiful. Truly. Thank you.
You remind me of Keller’s description of a genuine Christian when asked if he is a Christian responds with amazement, almost like it is a joke that God would accept him, but He has.
I love it.
In my above response about my heavy heart I said Elizabeth — meant to say Susan — though I know many of you have similar family situations to Susan. Anyhow — sorry about that — God knew who I was praying for! He never has name problems — they are engraved on His hand!
Actually, Susan’s marriage was on my heart to pray for 2 mornings ago–heavy. I DO relate to the painful lonely times–we struggled for 12 years with my husband’s illness, anger, etc.. I do believe it was the “sins of the forefathers” passed down. There were times I begged God to take me home. But, He has shown Himself and done nothing short of a miracle in my marriage, and I pray that for Susan’s as well.
I love what you said Dee–He never has name problems! It reminded me of what I read last night in Ann Voskamp’s book–in ch 2, she says “He means to rename us–to return us to our true names, our true selves. He means to heal our holes.”
Thanks for your grace, Elizabeth.
I love Ann’s book. It’s going up next on what I’m reading now. 🙂
Dee,
I am moved that you thought of me and were praying…. I am seeing that it is really me who needs to change in my marriage; not so much with my relationship with my one son, because I don’t know what it is about your own child, but he could trample me under his feet and I would still love him. The instinct to love, nurture, and protect is so strong!
But with my husband, it’s different. Hurts pile up, and unforgiveness and bitterness take root, and I find myself withdrawing and emotionally distant. And I know he can’t see Jesus in me when I’m like this. The truth is, I do not love my husband unconditionally. I really need God’s love for him because I don’t naturally have it.
That’s where the idol of comfort comes in, and makes me selfish and unwilling to be his helper/completer.
You have a pure heart, Susan. Some of the godliest women I know are married to unbelievers — the sand and the pearl. I am afraid I would be a tiger.
I just want to encourage you. I was married to an unbeliever and after some time watching me as a changed person God did open His eyes eventually (1 Peter 3). It was an incredibly hard time though I remember. Praying for you. I am sorry and you are an encouragement. HUGS
3. Jesus was getting the ‘royal’ treatment at the home of a wealthy leader among the Jews. I wonder if, having seen His power and labeled Him as a rebel (that is, out of their control), the Pharisees were not trying to wine and dine Him into their camp. They might see Him as quite an asset to their lordship in Israel. A prostitute clinging to Him definitely did not fit that bill.
In 2011 there are plenty of restaurants perfect for just such an agenda. I like the descriptions already shared about what a similar encounter might look like. A successful prostitute desperate for a way out of the life she is living hears of the presence of the Way (I think that is what they called Christianity in the first century) and she takes it finding freedom. Then she hears that Jesus is in this restaurant and all she can think about is this chance to express her gratitude to Him. I think she enters the restaurant and joins the table easily because she does not look that different from those who frequent it. It was her love that offended them. Simon did not love Jesus, he wanted to use Him.
4. Simon thinks in verse 39 that Jesus should know what kind of woman this was and shun her because of her sin. Jesus did know which is exactly why He allowed her. Jesus loved the woman but Simon cared nothing for her. He saw power from God as something to be used. How far from God heart Israel’s leadership had come.
5. In verses 41-43 Jesus tells the story of 2 debtors. One owed much and one little. By Simon’s own admission the point is proved that the one, who has been forgiven much, loves much.
6. Jesus proves to Simon that the woman loves Him much but Simon does not. As you say Dee her sins were not any greater than Simon’s. Because he did not see his sin he just did not ask for all of the forgiveness he needed, therefore was not forgiven as much as the woman.
7. Oh, this study has lit up the depths of my sin and I say with my other sisters here, Yuck! The pride at the root of my approval idol was completely hidden from me until now. I see selfishness at the root of my comfort idol keeping me from being broken and spilled out. I just would not allow it and Jesus in His mercy did not force me. He brought me gently along.
8a. I want to stay in control because I fear what will happen if I let go. The reason I fear is because I do not trust Him. He is calling me to let go and trust Him. It is exciting to expose this fear for what it is, groundless and empty. It is a lie and faithlessness.
b. Jesus whispers to me to let go so that I can be forgiven.
c. The one who is forgiven much experiences the most joy, peace and transformation.
9. In 48-50 Jesus forgives her sin and that surprises the people at the table because they cannot see His deity. His miracles they can see. That is quite disconnected in understanding.
10. Just this morning I made a long journal entry (my first in almost a year) about how I see God moving in my life. In the Lord of the Rings book the Ents remind me of God in this way, they never did anything fast and saw humans as hasty. It was almost 7 years ago that God, after 20 years of thinking I was serving Him, asked me if I was ready. My overwhelming response was YES! For what, I did not know, but trusted which was a beginning. At first I willingly accepted the call to quietness, prayer and study because I could see it as necessary. As time went on though, I began to wonder if I missed something along the way. Now I see that I need time and that truly, it is His mercy. For quite a few years I would fast regularly and began to notice that after a fast I always had trouble in that I could find favor with no one. It seemed that I was always disappointing others, embarrassing myself and generally messing up. He was faithful to what I was asking Him for in my fasting, nearness to Him, by gently pulling my idol out from under me.
11. My take away this week is how the root of all of my sin is the one that hurts Him so much. It is my lack of trust in His goodness. I don’t know how fear fits into our study of idols but it is my biggest problem. As I have contended with my idols, I find it there, in front, every time. My gift to Him now is trust, tenuous as it is. I know He will take it, multiply it and grow me into His image.
3. Describe the scene in Luke 7:36-37.
Jesus is in the house of Simon the Pharisee, reclining at the table, and a “woman in the city who was an immoral woman” comes in and brings an alabaster vial of perfume.
A modern setting could even be Simon’s home, in an upscale neighborhood, in a stately home – 4,000+ sq. feet, beautiful landscaping, a swimming pool out back. The home is full of guests, beautifully dressed; caterers are serving the meal. And a woman enters the house through the unlocked door; people begin to notice her presence; the room grows quiet except for hushed whispers and a few twitters of derisive laughter; she feels the eyes upon her, judging, some shocked, some amused, some disgusted. It’s obvious she doesn’t belong here. Simon, the host, is embarrassed – how did she get in? Surely, Jesus will take his side in this matter and tell her to go away. In Simon’s eyes, she’s not a human being, with feelings, with a soul; she’s like dirt under your fingernails; unsightly, to be gotten rid of.
4. What does Simon think in verse 39?
Simon thinks to himself that if Jesus were really a prophet, He would know who and what sort of a person this woman is – that she is a sinner. I think he expected in light of that, that Jesus would recoil from her.
What does this tell you about Simon?
He sees everything in black and white. She’s a sinner. She is unclean. He’s not even curious about why she’s doing this. He lacks mercy and grace.
5. What is the story Jesus tells in verses 41-43?
The story of the lender who had two debtors, both whom were unable to pay back their debt. One owed a little money and the other a huge sum. The moneylender forgave both debts. Jesus asks, “Which of them will love him more?”
6. How does Jesus contrast the woman with Simon in verses 44-47?
The woman showed much love for Jesus by wetting His feet with her tears and wiping them with her hair; kissing His feet, annointing His feet with perfume.
Simon showed little love for Jesus in that he did not offer to have Jesus’ feet washed when He entered Simon’s home; Simon gave no kiss of greeting, and Simon didn’t anoint Jesus’ head with oil. Simon failed to extend the basic courtesies of a host toward his guest.
Many feel that the point is that if you have terrible sins, like this woman, like Karla, that you will love more. But that is missing the point. What Simon could not see was the depth of his sin.
I keep pondering verse 47, “For this reason I say to you, her sins, which are many, have been forgiven, for (because) she loved much; but he who is forgiven little, loves little.”
Had Simon seen his own sin, the depth of it, this woman’s extravagant actions of love wouldn’t have seemed strange to him. I think this verse shows the connection between seeing ourselves as we really are and the love for Christ that results from that realization. But if I think I don’t “have much” to be forgiven for, my love for Christ wont be that much.
7. Has this study of idolatry turned the light on the depth of your sin?
This study has shown me just how deceitful my own heart is. I am a master at hiding and rationalizing my sin, even justifying it. I’m really good at pretending it’s not that bad, and using busyness to avoid dealing with my heart before God. Uncovering the idols also uncovers who is at the bottom of it all – ME; and wanting to be “god” and to be served and to live for myself.
Susan–I was just listening to this song and thought of you:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lD_pCr_Xrnc
Especially this line: “We pour out our miseries, God just hears a melody, Beautiful the mess we are, The honest cries of breaking hearts,Are better than a Hallelujah”
I trust that as you continue to pour out your heart to Him, He will fill your holes.
Praying for you,
That is a beautiful song. Thanks Elizabeth.
I watched Life is Beautiful last night. At first I thought I might have the wrong movie because it was not what I was expecting. But what an incredibly beautiful story! It was subtitled and I could not read what it said at the end but I wondered if it was a true story. It must have been though because it seems incredible to me that someone would have made that up.
Anne, I’ve seen that movie, too. It’s wonderful – how the father maintains the ‘game’ with his son all throughout, yet sacrifices everything for him at the end.
Another good movie like that is I Am David.
Thank you Dee for the link. I am so encouraged by your teaching and Karla’s testimony.
As we move into the weekend, let’s finish up the study and record our God Hunts.
Sunday I have invited another mentor who was delivered from “relational idolatry.” Often women who struggle with homosexuality identify with this and perhaps they will join us, but it is for every one of us — for we all have a tendency to cling too tightly to people, or if not that, to something else God has made.
I have a big retreat in Port Huron, Michigan this weekend and would so love your prayers for quickening. YOu are an amazing group of women.
9. In verses 48-50, what does Jesus say? Why does this surprise the people?
*Jesus told the woman her sins are forgiven, her faith has saved her, and to go in peace.
* They didn’t know who Jesus was-that he was God and the son of God- and they didn’t know the depth of His love. They knew God was the only one who can forgive sins yet Jesus was forgiving her so that puzzled them.
Perhaps it goes back to how they saw God. I wonder if they even saw God as loving, rather merely a rule keeper, or some master with a whip who will punish them if they don’t go to the temple every day to sacrifice a lamb or a goat for their sins. I don’t think they got it because they were legalistic.
I think legalism stems from the control idol and pride is a near sin perhaps. I even think we can be this way too though even though we know Jesus and have been like the prostitute on our knees. We can be just like them becoming legalistic in nature and not even know it.
Here is my “God on the move” update, and I think God came in kind of backwards. I didn’t really know why I started seeing others differently until yesterday and now I get it after doing this study this morning, it was because I have remnants of legalism God wants to deal with in me and I was blind to it…Long story..
Here is my update: I don’t know exactly when this started to change in me but I really have been freed lately..I can’t describe when God started doing this but He started after I started doing this study starting with the stones in my heart..I now see others totally different both believers and unbelievers, and God has given me a love for people like I had when I first came to know Him, BUT BETTER, and I know I have a long way to go yet.
I think even back when I came to know Jesus and I was like the prostitute trusting Him, yet I grew legalistic like Simon criticizing even believing friends I knew who didn’t memorize or didn’t bring women to the Lord or didn’t seem to care about follow up with new believers, or may not be modest in clothing..Oh I didn’t really love. YUK! Now that I see the depths of my sin and Jesus’ holiness and how He loves, oh MY! Who am I to criticize anyone! Especially when I see I have idols, near sins, legalism, you name it! We all do.
So, I have seen Jesus taking me to my knees and humbling me since we started this study..I see others in a whole new light. I see the truth! Like the ladies at work, the ones who hate each other and gossip about one another..Instead of looking down on them, or getting nervous about how to respond, I have His peace and Jesus is showing me why they do this..They are in bed with their idols who give them false comfort and peace, yet they are being torn up inside and are dying to be rescued. They need to know Jesus’ love..They need His rescue, how can I not love them and share with them the hope that lies in me and help them to see who the true comforter and rescuer is.
This from Rebecca is so good — helps us give grace instead of judgment — helps us love the unbeliever who can be so hostile
Rebecca wrote:
I have seen Jesus taking me to my knees and humbling me since we started this study..I see others in a whole new light. I see the truth! Like the ladies at work, the ones who hate each other and gossip about one another..Instead of looking down on them, or getting nervous about how to respond, I have His peace and Jesus is showing me why they do this..They are in bed with their idols who give them false comfort and peace, yet they are being torn up inside and are dying to be rescued. They need to know Jesus’ love..
9. In verses 48-50, what does Jesus say? Why does this surprise the people?
Then Jesus said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” The other guests began to say among themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?” Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”
This reminds me also of the time Jesus asked, “What is harder — to forgive sins or to say take up your bed and walk?” I have only recently understand why He asked that. Of course it was much harder to forgive sins for it meant He has to go to the cross. This is something we must remember daily. We are loved — so deeply — so we can let go — let go of our idols and trust Jesus will meet us.
What struck me here is that Jesus though Jesus had pointed out that Simon had not done the things for Him that this woman had, He makes it clear it is her FAITH, not her actions, that saved her.
As with last week’s verses on Cain and Abel, it was Abel’s faith that allowed him to give his best to God—thus making it the better sacrifice. Here it was her faith that allowed her to freely give, and this faith is what saves.
10. Give a progress report — any way you see God on the move.
I FEEL God on the move. My heart feels free-er, more at peace, than I ever have before. I feel more ok with who I am , not in a “who cares’ sort of way, but more recognizing that to be a blessing to others, it IS all about getting out of the way and letting Him go before me.
11. What is your take-a-way this week?
Applying this truth—it is my faith that saves me, and that this is my offering to Him—to every area of my life. This season I have felt really led to do less, to be less busy, to not have my kids in more than one activity—if that! I have to admit we are totally in the minority, compared to my extended family, neighbors, friends. But I have begun to offer this to Him, in faith that it is right for us, that it pleases Him. I have felt such joy in being able to spend more time as a family—just us, but I will say it’s amazing how many people try to coerce us into ‘doing more”—even “good’ activities.
Another area I feel myself letting faith be my offering is with my kids’ salvation. We have been “over the top” according to many, about no TV, only Bible videos, Christian media, etc…with our kids. And when I see my 7 yr old come home from school with a sassy attitude, I can quickly blame public school, or get frustrated that my “formula isn’t working” and ask where is the fruit?! Today this happened and while I did start to get discouraged, I stopped and released her back to Him. I can only offer my children to Him, in faith.
Not sure if any of that made sense—a lot of allergy meds in me right now, but wanted to finish up!
Elizabeth, it does make sense to me. I believe God does want us to trust Him with our children. Only in close relationship with Him can you walk this path as you are doing. Good for you, stepping out in faith to go counter to the culture in raising your children. He is bigger than anything that goes on in public school and I often need to remind myself of that fact. I am praying for you.
Elizabeth, Ditto to Anne’s comment! May I suggest a book that Anne referred me to? It is called:”Parenting is your highest calling and 8 other myths that trap us into worry and guilt.” It is an excellent Christ centered book that really will free you as a parent in so many ways, and it totally dove tails with Dee’s study at times. I think it was God breathed that I was reading that at the same time as going through this. I don’t think I would have listened to the truths in that book had I not been aware of my approval and control idols..The book is better than my description but it was so freeing as a parent to read.
Praying for you sister!
I am sorry to keep coming on here asking for prayer but I am struggling and I think God wants me to ask. It is still fear and dread. It kept me awake almost all night last night. I talk to myself but it keeps coming back. My resolve seems to be like waving a red flag in front of a bull. Perhaps I am still trying to operate in my own strength. I don’t know but I’d sure like to.
Lord, I come before you now and ask that you would hold Anne close to You. Bind Satan from his attacks on her mind. Help her to replace each fear with Your truth, Your words, Your comfort. Protect her mind and spirit Lord and let her feel the presence of Your wings covering her, bathing her in Your love, Your peace. Bring songs to her mind Lord, that remind her of your faithfulness.
Amen.
Anne–I will continue to pray for you, especially at night. Years ago I was suffered from true hypochondria, and more recently suffered a panic attack–the fear involved was crippling, so I relate. I will continue to ask protection over your mind.
ps–no apologies for asking for prayer, Anne! That has been one of my favorite parts of this blog, to support one another in prayer and see His mighty work!
I agree, Anne…you pray for everyone, so please always ask us what we can pray for, for you. You are such a sweet sister in Christ. I’m praying for you, now.
Amen!
Anne,
Is it possible for you to identify what is the root of your fear and dread that is keeping you awake at night?
Thinking of you this morning, and praying for you.
I was thinking about that Susan, just this morning. It has to be related. Approval as in ‘what will people think if so and so happens. Comfort as in what will I endure if the same thing happens. I pray He will pull it up by the roots.
Anne, I prayed for you this morning..Will keep praying..I agree with Joyce, don’t ever hesitate to ask for prayers sister!! We love you and learn so much from you. God works through you in a mighty way here.
Keep beating it back with truth Anne and pray, and we will commit to praying for you. Anne, I can SO RELATE! It is so hard to beat it back with truth while it is happening, especially if you are tired. I think the enemy is really trying to set you back. I will pray for His strength to help you do it..His strength is perfected in weakness. Love you!
Amen!
8. Simon wanted to stay in control, to keep this intellectual. The woman is broken and spilled out. She is taking her tool of the trade, her perfume, and using it in a better way. Ponder these questions carefully:
A. How do you want to stay in control? How is the Lord speaking to you?
I feel the Lord speaking here about “abandonment”. The woman in the account was acting with abandon, laying aside fear or anxiety about what others would think, taking a bold leap of faith. What boldness and courage to step foot into the home of a legalistic Pharisee! But nothing could keep her away from Jesus.
So I think of my life and the way I carefully construct things to protect myself. It sounds ridiculous, but even living so long with resentment and emotional withdrawal from my husband seems ‘safe’, I’ve grown comfortable in this place even though I consciously long for something different. It seems safer and more comfortable to stay the same than to change. Giving up control and my comfort zone and turning all areas of my life over to Him seems kind of scary, yet that is exactly what He requires.
B. What reasons is Jesus whispering to you to let go?
If I let go and let Him take my life out of my own hands, He will amaze me at what He can do! He is asking me to trust Him.
C. Who experiences the most joy, the most peace, the most transformation?
The one who takes God at His word. The one who knows the depth of her depravity and sin and yet takes her eyes off herself and looks at Jesus, her Savior.
God has given you insight into your heart, Susan — because you are willing to hear. That encourages us all to listen to Him.
Susan, I have been reading your responses and wow! You are a woman who has and is now at the precipice of abandoning herself yet again.. and this is a big one..I think because you have been faithful in the past and are still listening God knows you are ready to trust Him with this bigger issue and He has given you more grace.
I admire you because I don’t think I would walk in faith as you have. I think also you see the reasons why your husband responds to you like He does and perhaps have grown to have more mercy toward him, but the hard part is as you mentioned-you are his wife and are having a hard time loving him. Sometimes it is hard even when your husband knows the Lord because of the old man still in our lives. 🙂
Paul said in Philippians 2 as he encouraged the believers there to not give up putting the gospel forth for fear of persecution and death, but to be encouraged by persecution because that is another confirmation that you are indeed a believer. Persecution really confirms the gospel so you are right where God wants you to be and are at His feet ready to give up your perfume vial..What a tremendous testimony to me, Susan.
Susan, you have articulated so well how you have insulated yourself from the pain in your relationship. I recognize it. Another layer of my onion.
Dee, I have enjoyed the recorded sessions you and the Stroms done in the prison so much in your spring prayer letter. They were so wonderful! Does Terry Strom have a CD you can buy? I like his songs. You spoke so great, Dee, I could feel Jesus in your heart!
Thanks so much. Terry would absolutely love it if you requested it — you can contact him through discipleshipunlimited.org
Thanks, Joyce.
It is with tears of gratitude that I say thanks to all of you for your prayers. You make this path so much easier!
This morning I received this ‘kiss’ from the Lord, even though I failed against my comfort idol and fell asleep in the chair. When I woke up I read this: Deuteronomy 7. The whole chapter but these parts in particular. “If you say to yourself, ‘These nations are greater than I; how can I drive them out?’ do not be afraid of them. Be sure to remember what the Lord your God did to Pharaoh and all Egypt: the great trials you saw…Don’t be terrified of them, for the Lord your God, a great and awesome God, is among you. The Lord your God will drive out these nations before you little by little…Don’t covet the silver and gold on the images and take it for yourself, or else you will be ensnared by it, for it is abhorrent to the Lord your God. You are to utterly detest and abhor it, because it is set apart for destruction.
Then in chapter 8 Moses talks about how the Lord humbled the people by letting them go hungry and then giving them manna to eat…that you might learn that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord. This is my God watch sighting for now. I will be dwelling on this today because I think there is much more here.
Tomorrow morning I am contending again with comfort. Taking the bull by the horns…
See, here you go again, well, here God goes again, teaching me without even knowing it just because you are being transparent about what God is showing you. 🙂
I have to add that this is totally appropriate for where we are at in our study and this passage in Deuteronomy takes on a deeper level of meaning to me.
Wonderful, Anne!
I just got this on email from Samaritans Purse. I don’t know what to say about it except to rejoice in how God is able, even in the face of disaster. http://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/articles/people_can_live_again/
I love Japan. I lived there from infancy until I was about 2 and my oldest son spent a month there the summer after high school. I think I have a God given connection.
First praying Dee for your weekend…May the Lord quicken you and those dear women you are ministering too.
Praying for all you ladies. You encourage me so…
I will post God hunt first then Bible study answers.
Post on Facebook today: Feeling really heavy dealing with this Asperger journey and my daughter. This is what God showed me in the early am. I just had to get away for a few minutes in the car.
Gifts from God from 7am – 8am. 1-A car with gas. 2-Christian radio. 3-Evidence of God’s power and majesty in flashes of lightning across the sky. 4-A sweet barista friend with a listening and caring ear. 5-A free grande soy mocha. 6-God singing to me through Natalie Grant, held. 7-An open parking lot to pull into. 8-Freedom to openly weep and worship God. 8-Ability to trust Him and let go.
3-The scene would be incredible. Lots of people around staring at this improperly dressed woman. Feeling annoyed because she just keeps crying and wiping his feet with her tears. The restaurant owners are freaking out because it is bad for business yet Jesus does not mind. They are perplexed on how to handle this disruption. The table is even more embarrassed.
4-Skeptical that Jesus is special because he assumes Jesus does not get who this woman is.
5-Love Jesus response and His story!! So appropriate. Forgiven much and little who would love more? Love that! Yet if Simon really new how much he needed forgiveness too he would have understood.
6-Says Simon did not do what was customary for guests yet the woman did and it was not even her place.
7-yes always…I have felt like the woman so much because of my outward sins yet the sins of the heart are just as “bad” no one is clean before God except Jesus who had no sin. We are only clean by trusting in Him period.
8-a-I try to stay in control often by not appearing broken with groups of people yet God has given me the heart he has so I will be sensitive to sin in my own heart. It is ok to be broken about it before others. It is a gift though I feel completely embarrassed by it often.
b-what people may think and just trust. He uses this to encourage others to be authentic. Be me who He created me to be so His glory will be shown.
c-I do when I let go.
9-been reading Kings Cross by Keller really good! He speaks of this when Jesus says your sins are forgiven over and over. It is really bold because only God has the authority to forgive sins so He is claiming to be God in doing this. This is offensive to others because their hearts have not been opened to believe.
10-God is moving big. I am learning so much and mostly just to Let Go and Trust Him. He is in control and will help us all as we trust Him.
11-Take away…Continue to be broken and spilled out before Him. He is near the broken. He esteems the lowly. He does not like pride so this is the best way to be before Him. Be ever thankful and praiseful for Jesus. What amazing grace our God gives us in Him. To be able to approach a holy God because He came and died for our sins. That is amazing grace and I am just in awe and appreciate it so much. How He loves us. So amazing.
Here is a beautiful post I found on Ann Voskamps blog. I think as we surrender our idols to Him, He will give us one piece lives. Although I don’t think this is quite what she is talking about I see that I have been cutting and piecing my life to cover the holes. A piece to cover on Sunday morning, a piece for here and one for there…leaving holes in between.
http://www.aholyexperience.com/2007/05/one-piece-life/
Please Lord, teach us and grow us that we may live one piece lives.
That is beautiful Anne — what a writer emerges from this Mennonite mother! How blessed we are to have her!
Thank you for your prayers for the retreat — true quickening. So thankful.
Beautiful snowy Port Huron — but warm hearts!
I did it! I went to bed early, got up early this morning and stayed awake. Thank you Lord! The Lord spoke to me in His word and laid on my heart things to pray about. This makes me very happy.