I’m so glad you’ve come! Even if you are not internet savvy, this is easy — and if you have trouble getting started, just send your question to david@deebrestin.com. There is both a Bible study to do and a Moody program to hear.
If it’s your first time participating in the online Bible Study please check out the
Getting Started page for more information.
BIBLE STUDY
Every Sunday for ten weeks a new Bible study will appear for you to do at your leisure throughout the week.
The first time you post, it will need to be approved, so we keep out spammers — but after that, whatever you write will simply appear. I will give other enriching resources: U-Tube videos of the featured hymn or spiritual song or free sermons from the best of the best. You may want to order the book to read along, and I believe it would enrich you, but you do not have to have it to do this online study.
MIDDAY CONNECTION ACCOMPANYING PROGRAM WITH GREAT MUSIC!
Every Monday for ten weeks, you can listen to the accompanying Moody Broadcast. You can either:
Listen live at noon central on Mondays if you have a Moody station or listen live online by clicking here: http://www.moodyradio.org/middayconnection.aspx or listen online at your convenience a day after the program has aired by clicking on the above and going to past programs. We will give a link here as well when it is available.
BIBLE STUDY
Whether you have come because you are in the midst of suffering, or want to be ready when it comes, or long to comfort others who are suffering, you will be strengthened. The image the psalmist uses frequently for the feelings that we have when catastrophic news comes is that of drowning.
I felt that way when I received news that my husband had cancer, and then again, when he died. I also had similar feelings when my daughter was in a dangerous relationship and when my son had prodigal years. Many of you have had those feelings when you faced betrayal, bereavement, or broken dreams of infertility or divorce. With many circumstances we feel we have lost control, which is what a drowning person feels.
Suffering is a part of life. Christianity, of all the world religions, is unique when it comes to suffering, for we alone have a God who entered into our suffering, who is acquainted with our sorrow. Behind the laments of the psalmist, you can often see Jesus, the suffering servant who was acquainted with sorrows.
ICE-BREAKER
1. Share your name and one reason you have decided to participate in this ten week study on The God of All Comfort.
We will begin with a psalm this week. One important principle for interpreting Scripture is to interpret genre according to genre. Psalms, for example, are poetry — and you interpret poetry differently than prose. You look for the central meaning of the word pictures, rather than pressing each point. For example, the psalm you are about to look at pictures God riding on the wings of the wind to come to the rescue of His distressed child. This is a Word picture designed to show you the heart of God for His suffering child — and that is what you must see.
Read Psalm 18:1-5
2. What are some word pictures the psalmist uses for God in verses 1-2?
3. How does he describe himself in verses 4-5? How does this express the feelings of drowning?
4. In Psalm 18:6-19 the psalmist uses a dramatic word picture to describe God’s response to His child’s cry. Describe it.
5. What phrases particularly impact your heart and why?
When we imagine a rescue, we usually think of being delivered from our circumstances — and yet the Bible talks about two kinds of “rescues.”
6. In Hebrews 11:29-31, find three examples of being rescued from circumstances. Share a time when God rescued you from your circumstances.
7. Read Hebrews 11:36-40
A. Give a few examples from the above of those were not rescued from circumstances.
B. And yet they WERE rescued. What promise is given in Hebrews 11:40? What is the “something better?”
C. How can their trust in the midst of suffering help to make us “perfect” or mature?
D. Share a time when God did not rescue you from your earthly circumstances, but gave you hope that one day things would be made right.
A contemporary example of someone not rescued from circumstances but who was sustained by hope is Horatio Spafford, author of “It is Well With My Soul.” Spafford has often been called a contemporary Job. He lost an infant son, his wealth in the Chicago fire, and then sent his wife and four daughters to England to a D. L. Moody Crusade, with the promise he would follow soon after.
But that ship went down at sea and his four little girls perished.
His bereaved wife sent this famous telegram with the message: “Saved alone. What shall I do?”
There is a video with five hymn stories called Amazing Grace: Hymns that Changed the World, that I heartily recommend. Watch an excerpt from it below.
The lyrics that came to Horatio all revolve around the cross and the hope it gives us. He knew this wasn’t the end of the story — that his daughters were delivered to “something better” and that they would be together with them one day.
Meditate on these lyrics:
When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.
Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul.
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.
My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
And Lord haste the day when my faith shall be sight
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll
The trump shall resound and the Lord shall descend
Even so, it is well with my soul.
8. What stands out to you from the Horatio Spafford story?
9. What truths can you find in his lyrics that might sustain you in the midst of suffering?
10. What water images and rescue images can you find in this hymn?
Listen to the Midday Connection program # 1 online (past programs will be available on Tuesdays) and share what stood out to you.
11. What stood out to you from the program?
12. If time permits, you will be greatly blessed by listening to this free sermon by Tim Keller on suffering: Click here: http://sermons2.redeemer.com/sermons/suffering-if-god-good-why-there-so-much-evil-world
What stood out to you from this message?
When I learned that my husband had advanced cancer, I was speaking at a large retreat where Kim Hill was leading worship. Truly, I felt like I was drowning, even when I was speaking, I felt like the words were coming out of my mouth in slow bubbles. After I spoke the retreat coordinator announced Steve’s diagnosis and Kim came up to lead in worship. She led us in “It is Well with my Soul.” My daughters and I were frozen with grief. Annie was silent. Sally was weeping. I had the fleeting thought I should be a better witness.
13. Why was the fleeting thought I had a wrong thought?
One of the things we will learn in this ten week study is that God wants honesty from us because He wants intimacy with us.
14. Why is it impossible to be intimate with someone who is dishonest?
15. The psalmists often lamented, as their way to hang on to God in the midst of grief. See, for example, Psalm 13. If you are in the midst of high tide grief — write a short lament here.
16. What is your take-a-way this week and why?
UPDATE: Here is the link to the “God of All Comfort, Part 1” on Moody Radio: Link
375 comments
Shirley Liechty invited me to join. I’m not currently in a bible study group and need to be! Thank you!!!
Hi Bev. Welcome! You are in for a treat.
Most definitely!
And welcome, Bev!
Welcome Bev!! So glad you are here!
Welcome, welcome, Bev! I hope Shirley will join you posting here! You are the first to respond!
We are in the midst of those trials- drowning is a good description! I heard Dee speak at Colonial Baptist Church in Cary, NC at a women’s conference, and I am so looking forward to hear what God has given her for us. I so need this encouragement!
Sue — I’m praying God will meet you in the midst of these trials. I truly believe He will.
Welcome, Sue!
Welcome Sue!!
My name is Tracy and I am in this study because I regularly participate in this blog study and get so much good from it! I love “The God Of All Comfort” and cannot wait to get started!
2. What are some word pictures the psalmist uses for God in verses 1-2?
My rock, fortress, strength, deliverer, shield, horn of salvation, stronghold.
3. How does he describe himself in verses 4-5? How does this express the feelings of drowning?
He’s entangled in cords of death, overwhelmed by torrents of destruction (this really tells of drowning to me), and he feels death and the grave closing him in. More drowning imagery in these statements too.
4. In Psalm 18:6-19 the psalmist uses a dramatic word picture to describe God’s response to His child’s cry. Describe it.
God comes down from heaven majestically riding cherubim, parting, thundering and soaring, laying the earth’s foundation bare with a blast of his nostrils… Why? All to save he who called out for rescue.
5. What phrases particularly impact your heart and why?
Verse 19 really impacted me as God’s delight in us is the reason He rescues us– what a concept! And instead of drowning in the claustrophobia-inducing ocean, the psalm writer is now brought to a spacious place. Just thinking of it feels like true freedom! In my mind’s eye, I imagine him standing on a grassy hilltop, enjoying the sweet air of victory in Jesus!
My name is Janice and I am joining in this Bible Study because I need to spend more time in God’s word. I have read your book “The God of All Comfort” and found it very insightful. I hope to be strengthened spiritually by this study and I know it will draw all of us closer to God.
I also have a comment regarding verses 1-2 of Psalm 18. The word picture that most clearly stood out for me was that God is our rock. He is the place where we can run and hide when our enemies surround us. A rock that can’t be moved by those who would harm us and a place where the enemy can’t follow.
I love that image!! Welcome to the study, Janice.
Welcome Janice. So glad to have you!
6. In Hebrews 11:29-31, find three examples of being rescued from circumstances. Share a time when God rescued you from your circumstances.
The Israelites were rescued when God allowed them to cross the Red Sea on dry land. The army at Jericho was triumphant, and Rahab was spared from death, all rescued by God.
God is rescuing me right now from insecurities and misconceptions about my worth in Him and changing my trust from idolatrous performance-focused living to full trust in Him because of the freedoms given to my soul from the Gospel of Christ and its truth in my life.
7. Read Hebrews 11:36-40
A. Give a few examples from the above of those were not rescued from circumstances.
Verses 36&37 mention a lot of what seems to be defeat by the world’s view: “Some faced jeers and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment. They were put to death by stoning; they were sawed in two; they were killed by the sword. They went about in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, persecuted and mistreated–”
B. And yet they WERE rescued. What promise is given in Hebrews 11:40? What is the “something better?”
God rescued them spiritual by taking them to heaven. It is the ULTIMATE better thing.
C. How can their trust in the midst of suffering help to make us “perfect” or mature?
Trust in God makes the whole person more mature in their faith and closer to Christ than ever. Things may still seem hard but you know that Jeusus is there, an unfailing friend. I have learned this.
D. Share a time when God did not rescue you from your earthly circumstances, but gave you hope that one day things would be made right.
I am currently facing health struggles and they are not over yet. But I trust God to deliver me.
I’m still praying for your health problems, Tracy
Thank you, Joyce, it means so much to me!
Tracy, I’m praying too!
Thanks so muck, Kim!
I meant “much” sorry for the typo.
8. What stands out to you from the Horatio Spafford story?
I’m constantly amazed by his trust in God despite all that occurred. I admire his faith so much, and that makes this hymn all the more poignant.
9. What truths can you find in his lyrics that might sustain you in the midst of suffering?
I love his focus on Christ and the salvation He gives us. Spafford is telling us thar for those in Christ, death doesn’t have the last word, and it is other the end!
10. What water images and rescue images can you find in this hymn?
The 1st 2 lines show water, interestingly both good (peace like a river) and negative (sorrows like sea billows).
Rescue is evident with each reference 2 Christ.
He is our ultimate rescue. I must not forget?
I too think the positive and negative water images are intriguing. He allows both and is in both.
My name is Lucy and I am here to grieve and let go. It has been a long and difficult path these last 3 years as I have cared for my mother and father in law and a brother with Down syndrome and dementia. In the past year my father in law and my brother have gone to be with the Lord. I have a family and work and am also in graduate school and feel truly as if I have been drowning!
Welcome, Lucy! May this study be a ‘life line’ for you to hold onto. I am sorry for your loss of your father in law and your brother; that’s a lot to deal with in one year.
Yes, welcome, Lucy. I think you’ll find a lot of fellowship & support here.
Welcoem Lucy. The caregiver gets weary and I pray you will find comfort and strength here, from the Word, the music, and your sisters.
Hi, my name is Jackie and I am new to the site. Lucy introduced me to Dee’s book when my Mom died in Nov. 2010, just weeks after her brother died. I have since given at least six copies to relatives and friends. I had just recommended it to another on the 25th of June. Lucy called on the 26th to let me know of this Bible Study starting. We met in college and have been spiritual sisters for many years. I look forward to the blessings to come.
Welcome Jackie!! Can’t wait to hear your insight here!
Welcome Janice and Bev!
1.I’m Elizabeth, and I am so honored to have been a part of this group since January, and am so excited to study The God of All Comfort! For one, it is one of my very favorite books, by my most treasured author. Secondly, I want to surrender each part of the scars from pain in my past—childhood, marriage, infertility, broken relationships…and let God take my shattered pieces and make them something beautiful, as only He can, for His glory. Last, I add that this story is one that will change your life regardless of what trials you have faced–and we all have some kind! It is an amazingly vulnerable window into the life and heart of the most humble, godly woman I have ever met. And though I have yet to meet her face to face, that is my point–you will feel like you have! I am convinced it is those most broken, most humble, most real that He uses in my life–to break me, remold me, and lead me on His path. This Bible Study blog has been the most life-impacting, heart-transforming, get-to-the-root-of-it study I have ever experienced—no turning back now!
2. What are some word pictures the psalmist uses for God in verses 1-2?
Rock-firm, unbreakable, indestructible,
Fortress-a place of defense or security
Shield-protector, defender
Horn of Salvation-symbol of strength or power
Stronghold-A place of survival or refuge
3. How does he describe himself in verses 4-5? How does this express the feelings of drowning?
Entangled, feeling as though death were near, without hope. He was drowning in a place of despair as if sinking further and further into a dark sea of entrapping waters with no way of escape. When there is so much pain all around you, sometimes it is hard to see anything else—and it crowds out any light, any hope. The air feels thick with the memories of hurt and your mind replays each detail over and over—it is hard to catch a breath—and to imagine going on with life seems impossible.
Elizabeth — you always warm my heart and so glad to have you here — you’ve been through this study, but will come through it with fresh eyes, and I will give fresh material — and you will be such a wonderful mentor to all the new sisters we already have joining us.
1. I’m Susan. I’ve been on this blog since January 2010, when we first went through the God of All Comfort. That was 5 months after I lost my 21 year old nephew. The first study helped me do a lot of the work of grieving, and kept me from backing away from God. The other women were a tremendous source of support, too. It’s now fast approaching the 2nd year anniversary of his death, and though not as raw, there is still sorrow in my heart. I want to approach this study fresh, and see how God will speak to me and show me new things.
Me too, I can’t wait to see what God will teach us this time. I started in the middle of the topic before so I look forward to beginning @ the beginning!!!
Susan — I’m so glad you are with us again for this. I so remember your deep grief with your nephew. You have an empathetic heart — one so needed here. I see you as doing so much better, though still grieving. So very glad you are here.
It’s so neat to see new people! Welcome to all of you, and may God bless you richly as we study and learn together.
My name is Janet. Ihave been going through some rocky, stressful times. Also I want to learn how to be of real help to people around me that are suffering. I want to bless them and say the right words of comfort, and not platitudes that sound canned.
Strength, rock, fortress, deliverer, my God, buckler, horn of salvation, high tower.
David describes himself as needing help from the Lord; yet, in his trouble he still praises the Lord and calls on His name; He realizes his rescue is only in the Lord. Death compassed me, he said; floods of ungodly men caused him to fear.
The picture here is that when angered, the Lord can seem like a mighty storm, far beyond what we know. Earthquake, hills move, smoke and fire, darkness, dark waters and thick clouds. Hail stones, coals of fire, thunder, lightnings. Fearsome, very powerful.
In my distress, I called upon the Lord, and cried unto my God. He heard my voice and my cry came before Him, even to His ears. This is comforting because it shows His loving kindness. Like my earthly father heard my cries, even more so my Heavenly Father hears me, even distict from all His other children.
Welcome, Janet!
Janet — how glad I am you are here. How wonderful you have come to learn to be a comfort.
Welcome to the new gals, great to have you on board. I did this study almost two years ago right after my sweet daddy died from a surgical mistake. It was very healing and I learned so much. I have been participating in the idol study for the past several weeks and my life is dramatically changing for the better. I love and appreciate each woman in the study and know I will learn even more the second time around. I may not be on much the next 9 days b/c my sister and I own a fireworks business and will be putting in very long days but I will try to at least read the posts. Blessings to each one!
Kim — so glad to have you with us. You absolutely have grace for these busy times. Just glad you are here.
Thank you, Dee. I owe you more than I can ever pay.
1. My name is Terri and I have been getting to know Dee from Midday Connection for probably about the last year. I have intended to join the last couple studies, but never did.
4 1/2 years ago, my husband and I moved to a new area and I have struggled to find a place of connection and belonging in a church. It has been a very difficult transition. When we moved, I left close and deep relationships but I was so excited and optimistic about what God had for us. I have faced disapointment after disapointment and it took me a long time to recognize that I was in deep grief. This has been a journey that has affected my relationship with the Lord–I have struggled to spend time in the Word and in deep prayer with Him. I pray that He uses the Word,this study and online friends to renew and revive me.
2. strength, rock, fortress, deliver, refuge, shield, horn of salvation, stronghold.
3. entangled by cords of death, overwhelmed by torrents of destruction, cords coiled around me, snares of death confronted me — when I read this I envision being under the water, with the cords tangling around me, keeping me from getting above the water to get a breath.
Welcome, Terri!
Oh Terri! You are right where I was. I can totally relate. I will pray for God to bring a woman of depth who is on fire for him in your path to encourage you in your church home.
We had looked for over 5 years for a new church home and we just weren’t connecting. I was so discouraged that I couldn’t find women of depth who are passionate about Jesus. I struggled also to spend time in the word, and needed encouragement, but God answered my prayer in his timing and brought a godly woman full of depth in my path and on top of that he brought me to Dee’s study. He has used Dee’s online ‘oasis’ here to renew and revive me. He literally rescued me. The women on here are depthy, teachable and long to draw closer to Jesus. I have found great encouragement, prayer, and the studies Dee does are life changing. God answered my prayer ten fold.
Thank you Rebecca for your encouragement and prayers. I never dreamed it would be so hard to find a church to call home. tomorrow I am meeting with the pastor’s wife of a church we have visited for several weeks. I am so excited to be in this Bible Study.
Terri, GREAT! I will pray for you in this meeting tomorrow.
Lord, We ask that you would go before Terri and the pastor’s wife as they meet tomorrow. It is your delight to bind our hearts together in fellowship, so Lord I ask that you would quicken this pastor’s wife’s heart to encourage Terri tomorrow and that you would move in a mighty way Lord to give Terri your comfort, peace and direction as she and her husband seek to find the church you would have them be in. In Jesus precious name, Amen.
Amen! Lord hear our prayer.
Terri, I so empathize with your struggle–and will pray! We moved to a new state 5 years ago and visited over 10 churches…tried for a year each 3 different ones, before finally finding home, which still has it’s compromises! I was so surprised that in our move 1000 mile move, the hardest part was finding a new church home. I will pray for your meeting with the pastor’s wife too.
I am so grateful for your prayers for me, and your support and friendship.
6. In Hebrews 11:29-31, find three examples of being rescued from circumstances. Share a time when God rescued you from your circumstances.
I felt like I was drowning when I felt so alone and lonely. After almost 2 years in this new place, one day I was crying out to God saying I know he is the friend that is closer than a brother, but I really need a friend with skin on. I got the impression to call this lady I had met about a year before. We had not talked since that first day I met her. I called her and we met. She is a mature Christian with years on me in ministry and in so many ways is encouraging me and challenging me. We both realized we were kindred spirits. In a sense, God rescued me from the despair and loneliness that I was experiencing.
7. Read Hebrews 11:36-40
A. Give a few examples from the above of those were not rescued from circumstances.
Some were flogged, chained, put in prison, sawed in two, put to death by the sword, persecuted, mistreated.
B. And yet they WERE rescued. What promise is given in Hebrews 11:40? What is the “something better?”
The redemption we have through Christ.
C. How can their trust in the midst of suffering help to make us “perfect” or mature?
They are an example for us to follow. I need to focus on things beyond this life and remember that I am a pilgrim here, we are seeking a better kingdom.
D. Share a time when God did not rescue you from your earthly circumstances, but gave you hope that one day things would be made right.
My husband and I were pastoring a very small church that was made up of mostly people who had left other churches. We prayed and did all the things we knew to do and there was no unity in the body. Eventually the church closed. For the first time in our life, my husband had no job, and we had no church. God gave me the assurance that He had called us to this place at this time and he had a plan for our life and for our family. God reminded me of all the times he had met our needs and that he would never leave us or forsake us and he would provide us with all of our needs. I was able to focus on the God who is who he says he is and he is faithful. God was faithful but we had to walk through a long year of trusting him when we didn’t see answers.
W
Recognizing the grief is the first step. I can’t tell you how glad I am you are here, Terri.
2. What are some word pictures the psalmist uses for God in verses 1-2? strength, rock, fortress and my favorite-deliverer.
3. How does he describe himself in verses 4-5? How does this express the feelings of drowning? Deeply sorrowed, floods of ungodly men make him afraid, sorrows of Hell compassed him about: the snares of death prevented him.
4. In Psalm 18:6-19 the psalmist uses a dramatic word picture to describe God’s response to His child’s cry. Describe it. God heard his cry for help from His temple. The earth shook and trembled, smoke came out of his nostrils and fire from His mouth. He flew on a cherub, The Lord thundered in the heavens. He drew the writer out of many waters. He delivered him from his enemies. The Lord was his stay and brought him forth into a large place because He delighted in His child.
5. What phrases particularly impact your heart and why? The Lord heard my cry for help-I cried in desperation for Him to help me crush my idols. He brought me forth into a large place (this blog) 😉 because He delighted in me- The Lord has been drawing me out spiritually and I have been experiencing His delight first hand.
I totally agree with this blog being one of those spacious places! 🙂
I was reading your devontional in my womens devotional bible and I came to your website. I clicked on the link for the bible study and I am interested to see what I can gain from doing this online. It is my first time but I am up for the weekly study and I love the blog.
Jillian — so glad to have you join us!
Our family has just moved from KS to SC. Although we have found a wonderful church at which to worship, I feel more ready to commit to an online study- to really delve into God’s Word- than to combine meeting new people with a Bible study. There is so much “meeting” going on, I just want some quiet time with God.
Welcome, Gail — so glad you are here. I understand. I wasn’t sure fellowship was possible on a blog — but the Lord has certainly shown me it is!
2. What are some word pictures the psalmist uses for God in verses 1-2?
my strength, my rock, my fortress and mt deliverer
3. How does he describe himself in verses 4-5? How does this express the feelings of drowning?
The words that are used in these verses ( pangs, flood, sorrow, snares) to describe the overwhelming of death and ungodliness are very strong. When reading the verse over and over it paints a picture of drowning based on the word choice which allows you to really understand the seriousness of the situation.
4. In Psalm 18:6-19 the psalmist uses a dramatic word picture to describe God’s response to His child’s cry. Describe it.
God rode a dark cloud out of the sky making his presence known with the lightning, winds, and hailstorms to deliver his child out of the murky water that he was in. At this point the child has gone from the scariest moment( drowning in a sea of death and ungodliness) to seeing God and know that he was going to be saved from all that he was in. Almost like a sigh of relief.
5. What phrases particularly impact your heart and why?
” He sent out his arrows and scattered the foe,”
My God is an awesome God. No matter where you are and what you are going through he is able to shoot out his arrows to protect you from whatever my surround when you cry out for help. I know that as long as I have God then I know that he will shoot that arrow for me when life gets to be too much.
6. In Hebrews 11:29-31, find three examples of being rescued from circumstances. Share a time when God rescued you from your circumstances.
1. making it across the red sea when the foe drowned in attempt
2. after a 7 day struggle the walls of Jericho fell
3. everyone else died and she survived because she believed
WHAT AN AWESOME GOD
Jillian — It’s so good that you are contemplating the word pictures of the psalms. That is so key to allowing the Spirit to work in our hearts.
Welcome to all the new sister’s in Christ, that are desiring a deeper walk with Jesus! I have been on this blog for about 2 years, right after I lost my mom. I am now going through a very hard time, losing my closest sister-in-law, married to my oldest brother for 47 years, tuesday the 28th. She is dying a horrible long drawn out death. I’m so glad to be doing “The God of all Comfort” study again, with Dee. Dee is the most gracious, humble, spirit filled mentor/leader I have ever known. You will love all the sister’s here also, they are the greatest! Blessings to all of you.
Joyce, I am sorry to hear that you are going through so much. I will send up some prayers.
The tiny little pictures here, help everyone to identify each other better. Go to ___Gravatar.com___ to set it up…it’s free.
joyce i went to that, what then. all i saw was how to make an avatar of yourself, how does it work?
1. Share your name and one reason you have decided to participate in this ten week study on The God of All Comfort.
I have decided to participate in this study because when I read the book it moved me. It challenged and encouraged me in other areas of life even though I haven’t experienced the death of a close loved one yet. I know this study will take us deeper into God’s arms than I could have gone just reading the book, so I am excited to see what God has in store for me and for all of us here doing it!
Rebecca — you are a joy to us all. So glad you are with us.
Read Psalm 18:1-5
2. What are some word pictures the psalmist uses for God in verses 1-2?
My rock, fortress, deliverer, shield, horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
3. How does he describe himself in verses 4-5? How does this express the feelings of drowning?
He was being entangled by the cords of death. The torrents of destruction overwhelmed him, the cords of the grave encoiled him and the snares of death confronted him.
I think this expresses his feelings of drowning because what was happening to him he couldn’t pull out of on his own-It had him and was pulling Him down, he was helpless and couldn’t make it to the top for air to survive.
4. In Psalm 18:6-19 the psalmist uses a dramatic word picture to describe God’s response to His child’s cry. Describe it.
When he called to God, he didn’t just say God was in his temple and he heard, he made sure to say, “he heard my voice, and my cry came before Him-into his ears.” God is deeply personal here, not some far off God who doesn’t care. The rest of this Psalm, David envisions God as His rescuer from His depression and distress. God is pictured here as someone who deeply loves and is jealous for David, who responds swiftly and quickly to rescue him and is angry at those who would seek to hurt him-This deeply, personal, caring God responds with Glorious power! He sends lightening bolts down and shakes the earth and scatters David’s enemies. He reaches down and pulls him out of his distress and sets his feet in a spacious place-a place where he isn’t distressed anymore-I think this spacious place is the peace that only God can give. The peace that surpasses all understanding. WHY did God rescue him? It wasn’t because of anything David did to earn it or deserve it, it was because God delighted in Him.
5. What phrases particularly impact your heart and why?
May we all see this, that Rebecca saw:
God is pictured here as someone who deeply loves and is jealous for David, who responds swiftly and quickly to rescue him and is angry at those who would seek to hurt him-This deeply, personal, caring God responds with Glorious power!
oops..Here is number 5
5. What phrases particularly impact your heart and why?
16-19 &20. God drew him out of deep waters-deep waters means deep..it is hard to get out of or even pull someone else out of deep waters, but God is strong enough to do that-David’s enemies were too strong for him, yet not too strong for God. Lastly, God delighted in David. David had a heart after God and David says God delighted in his righteousness.
I can’t help but think because I am wearing the righteous robes of Christ-how much God delights in me too. He will rescue me like he has David. He already has as I have given testimony here on this blog. He rescued me from my enemy- my idols, and brought me out into a spacious place. This morning, I think I will savor the fact that He delights in me. My prayers do not go on deaf ears-it is quite the contrary. Praise God!
Ladies,
I am going to a job training this whole week to train for a new job I am doing at the school. It starts today. I have to leave here around 6:00 a.m. I will be up at 4 a.m. in order to do this study..Can’t leave this well, even for a week! 🙂 Pray this week for me to have good recall and focus as I take a test Friday early evening and really just to show the love of Christ this week to the people I will meet.
Love you ladies!
4. In Psalm 18:6-19 the psalmist uses a dramatic word picture to describe God’s response to His child’s cry. Describe it.
He caused the earth to shake and tremble, because of his anger, he caused hailstones and bolts of lightning, his voice thundered, smoke from his nostils and fire from his mouth, like a dragonlike creature. It says God was angry, and the earth trembled and quaked because of his anger. God did all this to come to rescue his sevant David. God did what he did in such a dramatic way, that not only to David but anyone near would see the power of God. I have to wonder what others thought when they saw this display. Did others see and recognize God?
Rebecca, I am going to pray for you this week as you train and for the test Friday.
Terri,
Thanks so much!! God answered. After my first day of training today I knew God was saying no. It was pretty clear it wasn’t a good fit, so I told the boss that I would prefer to keep my other job at the school.
It really means a lot to me that you have prayed, Terri, thanks again!! 🙂
Glad it was clear quickly, Rebecca! Good for you for saying no.
Rebecca, I am so happy to hear that God gave you wisdom in the job situation! Isn’t it so wonderful when we hear from Him!
5. What phrases particularly impact your heart and why?
The Lord reached down……and rescued me. The picture I see is someone drowning and the drowning person can’t do anything to rescue himself. In fact when he flails and tries to grab onto the rescuer, it makes matters worse. The rescuer needs no help. God is my rescuer. It is not of my doing, nothing I can do helps him rescue me.
they confronted me…. but the Lord was my support–
“he rescued me because he delighted in me”.
Like so many of you, the phrase “that he delights in me” is something that isn’t always easy to wrap my mind around. I was so conditioned in my family of origin that performance equals value. Though long ago, I learned that God doesn’t value us that way, I love to be reminded that he delights in me, despite my flaws and failures.
Lord, I lift up dear Rebecca to you–I thank You for her, Lord, for the way You have made here–there is no one like her and we are all so blessed by her example and heart for You.
I pray for this test she has Friday, that You would give her wisdom of how/what to study, that You would free her mind from distractions as she takes the test, and that You would be glorified. I pray also that You would give her strength with this new schedule–cannot begin to imagine being coherent at 4am (except that I’m an innate night owl, but desperate try to reverse it!)
Bless our sweet friend,In Your Precious Name I pray
oops–I was behind in reading posts and just saw you decide not to go ahead with the new job–so thankful He made it clear to you!
Bless Rebecca in all she does this week, Lord.
4. In Psalm 18:6-19 the psalmist uses a dramatic word picture to describe God’s response to His child’s cry. Describe it.
He cried out to God—specifically he cried for help. And God heard him, he knew this, he trusted this. The Mighty God, not surprised by the cry, responded with a fierce, earth shattering defense. His anger at David’s enemies was fueled by His passionate love for him. It’s hard for me to imagine being loved that much. The way He comes to his defense, fights on his behalf, is a marker of true love. I love how active God is, He is never a passive King, He doesn’t tell David to go do this or that, He takes charge and handles the wrong, He rules as a mighty, all powerful Lord!
5. What phrases particularly impact your heart and why?
“He reached down from on high and took hold of me”—I love this, it is so Fatherly. He is not too high off and lofty to reach down—I am not out of reach, and I don’t even have to do anything to grab Him, He takes hold of me.
“he rescued me because he delighted in me”-He DELIGHTED in me. I want that to sink to my deepest layers because it’s still hard to really believe it, really feel it. I too often do not feel “delightful”—but it is truth. And I like that it is all His doing, He is the one who delights in me, it is not dependent on me, so it cannot be lost.
Let us all grasp what Elizabeth has:
“he rescued me because he delighted in me”-He DELIGHTED in me. I want that to sink to my deepest layers because it’s still hard to really believe it, really feel it. I too often do not feel “delightful”—but it is truth. And I like that it is all His doing, He is the one who delights in me, it is not dependent on me, so it cannot be lost.
I love how active God is, He is never a passive King, He doesn’t tell David to go do this or that, He takes charge and handles the wrong, He rules as a mighty, all powerful Lord!
i love this Elizabeth!!!!
Elizabeth,
I SO love your heart for God.
Today is the day the Midday connection program begins — would covet your prayers for listeners.
Thank you.
Hi
How do you answer the questions? Do you have to copy and paste beforehand?
1. Share your name and one reason you have decided to participate in this ten week study on The God of All Comfort.
My name is Meg and i have decided to do this 10 week study becasue i have never done a blog before and thoug ht it would be fun and also I need to do this to help myself in my own walk with God, spending more time in his word,etc
2. What are some word pictures the psalmist uses for God in verses 1-2? Rock, Fortress, Shield, savior
3. How does he describe himself in verses 4-5? How does this express the feelings of drowning? He is being entangled by the cords of death.
4. In Psalm 18:6-19 the psalmist uses a dramatic word picture to describe God’s response to His child’s cry. Describe it. He cried out to God- he cried out for help. GOd heard him and smoke poured from his nostrils.
5. What phrases particularly impact your heart and why? He led me to a place of safety he rescued becasue he delights in me (verse 19) this brings me great comfort to my heart
When we imagine a rescue, we usually think of being delivered from our circumstances — and yet the Bible talks about two kinds of “rescues.”
6. In Hebrews 11:29-31, find three examples of being rescued from circumstances. Share a time when God rescued you from your circumstances.
1. went throug the red sea
2. marched around Jericho 7 days
3. Rahab the prositute was not destroyed becasue she believed
7. Read Hebrews 11:36-40
A. Give a few examples from the above of those were not rescued from circumstances. some died by stoning, some were sawed in half
B. And yet they WERE rescued. What promise is given in Hebrews 11:40? What is the “something better?”not reach perfection with out us,
C. How can their trust in the midst of suffering help to make us “perfect” or mature?
D. Share a time when God did not rescue you from your earthly circumstances, but gave you hope that one day things would be made right.
Meg — as long as you number whatever one you are answering, we are following. Looks like you figured it out — either way is fine. So glad to have you.
Welcome Meg, so glad to have all you new gals!
I can’t wait to get started! I’m praying for diligence as I often let life get in the way of my bible study time!
Welcome, Shelly!
My name is Laura and I am participating this summer to stay connected to the Lord. Sometimes I can lose track of time in the summer; missing church, not reading my Bible, and so forth. Being part of the study helps me to keep focused. Just as the psalmist writes, I need God. He is my rock, strength, fortress, etc.
So glad you are here — good reasons!
my name is Cyndi and I started doing this Bible study in jan. God knew I would need it! my son was arrested (but not convicted), my oldest daughter was in the hospital for unknown brain issues, This is the first year home with a 10 year old little girl with special needs from China, she fell and shattered her arm needing surgery and a hospital stay and a lot of care, Luke graduated and we had a huge party and my dad almost died from an infected gallbladder that had gone undetected….
all that said, God has been so faithful and I feel so blessed. all of these things were so covered with grace and I felt the hand of God holding me up in all of it. I am so greatful for this blog and for a mentor like Dee.
1. A shield… Luke was watching this show called deadliest warrior and they were describing the sparten shield and how it was both an offensive and defensive weapon, it could withstand anything its enemy threw at it and could crush the skull of an enemy… what a wonderful picture of what God is for us.
With all that you are staying with us, and WE ARE SO GLAD!
heard you for part of today, missed the rest because a friend stopped by and needed to talk:) I had tears in my eyes thinking of you hurting so badly, I so wanted to wrap you and sally in my arms and cry with you! then i remebered, God did that for me:) what a wonderful blessing you are to all of us….
Thank you, Cydni! Love you gave a Little Mermaid link. 🙂
Hello,
My name is Rhonda and I truly feel that I am at a cross roads in my life. This bible study is so what I need. I too tend to let life get in my way sometimes so I will be praying for strength to stick with this and not let the enemy distract me. Can’t wait!
So glad you are with us, Rhonda. Praying against that distracting enemy!
I’m so glad I found your Bible study through Midday Connection…I love the promise from the Scripture…Psalm 18:16-19 “He reached down from on high and took hold of me; he drew me out of deep waters. He rescued me from my powerful enemy, from my foes, who were too strong for me. They confronted me in the day of my disaster, but the LORD was my support. He brought me out into a spacious place; he rescued me because he delighted in me.”
I know that trusting God means looking beyond what we can see to what God sees. I believe this online Bible study will help me trust Him more.
blessings,
beth willis miller
Beth — I’m so glad you are here. Yes, that is faith — “seeing beyond what we can see to what God sees.” Well put.
Hello I joined this study because I am still reeling and completely unwilling to accept my husband’s death in October from a surgical mistake. We went to the hospital and were scheduled to come home the next day; instead he stopped breathing for 10 minutes and went into a coma. He stayed there for 23 days; I was at his side constantly, but our children and I did not get a chance to have closure, because he never spoke again. As I read the images of God coming to our rescue I was instantly transported back to my husband’s hospital room; I wondered why God did not rescue him and give me back my children’s father. I find that I am filled with anger to find myself raising our children alone. Daily I want to scream…Give me back my life!! Why must I endure this pain.
I joined this study because I have been reading your book, The God of All Comfort. I am trying to speak to my anguished spirit, because my counselor says I am stuck in grief. My prayer is that this study will help me to accept God’s will and be the parent I need to be to our two teenage children.
Let me pray for you Silverlene — so glad you are with us.
Father, I know you welcome Silverlene’s honesty. I pray You will keep her with us, and that You will calm her, as only You can. Thank You she is here, brave enough to participate.
In Jesus Name
Yes Lord, I agree with Dee in prayer for Silverlene, in Your Name.
Amen, Lord..wrap your comforting arms around Silverlene today.
I also agree in prayer.
I too pray that I will be able to continue. I have been reading your book “The God of all Comfort” for months. I am trying to follow your advice and speak God’s truth to my soul. This has been very difficult, because Satan attacks me daily and tries to make me think as you said in the broadcast; If God is good then why did this awful thing happen to my husband.
Bless you for allowing us to look over your shoulder.
Oh I am so very sorry for your loss and your pain! I pray that this will be a comfort to you, that you will find your way into the arms of the only one who can comfort you at this time.
Precious Silverlene, you are in my prayer’s. God knows your heartache and will comfort you.
Oh, Silverlene, I can’t imagine the depths of your pain and yes, even anger. I pray that God will wrap his arms around you as you walk this path of grief. I pray that you will sense his presence minute by minute and be strengthened by his Spirit.
http://youtu.be/sk8R-LAz36k
this is a scene from the little mermaid that comes to mind when i read this psalm. don’t try to go to deep or anything, its just the image of the storm and waves and all:)
5.HE RESCUED ME BECAUSE HE DELIGHTED IN ME! wow, how cool is that? not cuz I was a looser that needed rescued but because he DELIGHTS IN ME…..
only you can make it so real cyndi! LOVE the link–perfect–and “HE DELIGHTED IN ME! wow, how cool is that? not cuz I was a looser that needed rescued but because he DELIGHTS IN ME…..” you bring it to life for me–thank you 😉
I’m not sure I’ll ever read Psalm 18 without thinking of Cyndi’s Little Mermaid link! 🙂
Oh the program is incredible! I wanted to share a few points that helped me in case some of you cannot listen:
The secret of the suffering saints: speak the truth to your soul through hymns, psalms, and spiritual songs.
God hates deceit and pretense of any kind. Psalms teach us that God is not angry when we are honest with Him, but when we are dishonest, because He wants intimacy with us and dishonesty is a barrier to intimacy.
Satan wants to create attachment disorder between us and God—which Sally described as the inability to be comforted, to rely on, to trust the one in authority who you should be able to trust.
I love how even Dee’s non Christian nephew affirmed our innate attraction to the truth, realness, exposed hearts.
It helped me a lot to hear Sally—I related to some of her feelings when my dad died.
I loved the part about Horatio—that he said he was thankful to have a reason to show God how much he loved Him—that humbles me to my knees, I long to have that heart for my God. Love God for God, not for His stuff. Blessed Be The Name.
Elizabeth thank you for your prayers. I too have been reading and rereading the part of Dee’s book that talks about speaking God’s truths to calm my anguished spirit. I often ruminate about the time I sat by my husband’s hospital bed, which my counselor says is just torturing me. For many months I seemed powerless to stop revisiting those awful times. I have read that passage in Dee’s books many times and have marked when I need to get to it in a hurry. I can say that there are moments now when I am able to speak to my anguished soul. My prayer is that these times will increase. I too was humbled in listening to Horatio’s story. I long to say one day that it truly is well with my soul.
My heart truly breaks for you Silverlene–I am keeping you in my prayers. I thought of you several times today, and how incredibly brave you are to be so open, vulnerable with your pain. I just cannot imagine, but I am asking Him to protect your mind, to cover you with His wings, to bless you. I praise Him for bringing you here–that is evidence to me that He has heard your cries and brought you here.Love to you new friend~
Silverlene,
I just want to join the ladies in praying that God will bring you that comfort that only He can bring. I am so sorry for your pain, but so grateful that you know that God is the answer. I love the way we can come together from unknown places and care for one another and pray for one another. I look forward to seeing God grow us past our current circumstances. God bless you sister. He is faithful!!
Hi all – I too know Shirley Liechty and heard Dee at our church in Port Huron this year at Ladies Day Away! She is awesome! inspiring and motivating. I am looking forward to the 10 week study to see how God would want to use it in my life! I feel I am already behind, but hope to catch up and really grow from His Word and this study! Blessing to all!
Oh Sharon,
So glad you are here! One thing I love about this study is we are never behind! 🙂 Even if we can’t finish all the questions because we came in late or something happens, it is o.k. We can take it at our own pace. That is what most of us do. It is awesome growing in intimacy with him WITH THE OTHER WOMEN HERE. It is SO COOL to share in this with other thirsty women. God is on the move on this blog among us women. Just wait, you will see!! I am sure you will love it too! 🙂
Welcome, Sharon!
13. The fleeting thought was inaccurate since God wants us to be honest about our feelings with Him. I feel that thoughts such as “I should be a better witness” are sort of like emotional blackmail from the enemy. Whatever we are feeling is acceptable to share with God. I learned this from reading the Psalms– such ranges of emotion!
14. Without honesty there can be no intimacy because intimacy comes from the deepest, most real parts of ourselves. Intimacy can equal vulnerability due to the required level of disclosure needed.
15. Though I do not have a lament in particular today, I do want to say how much I love Psalm 13. When I first read it closely during a personal study I did of Psalms a few years back, I had one of those “ah ha” moments, seeing that this is our relationship with God in a nutshell– we cry out, He rescues us, and He gently takes the torment away. The writer changes from lament to song in six short verses.
16. My takeaway is that God rescues me bc HE DELIGHTS IN ME! doesn’t that just melt the heart with love?
Yes it does, dear Tracy. I love your answer to #13.
I am doing this study because God has faithfully been leading me through the almost 3 years of my husband’s cancer journey, which ended March, 2011 when he went to be with his Lord. The psalms have meant so much to me during the journey, and I want to continue to study them.
Bless your heart, Karen. And welcome.
Praying for you, Karen
Dear Karen,
Three years of sickness and three months with the Lord. I’m so glad you are with us.
Warmly,
Dee
oh Karen, I have no words, but am so thankful He brought you here–praying it will be a source of comfort and healing for you,
Cyndi and other’s, go to: gravatar.com (to get your picture in the small box to the left). It’s the first one that comes up on Google. Click on that. Then look on the left side for a oblong box that says “get your gravatar today”. Click on that and follow the instructions. Rebecca, do you know how to bring up the site, printed here? I think it was you that helped me with it a long time ago.
Thanks Joyce!–I’m testing mine with is post ;)..it’s the pic I told y’all about–my snapdragons that grew out of the crack in the cement steps leading to my front door–my reminder of His power and ways!
Here’s the site link: http://en.gravatar.com/
Thanks, Elizabeth, I have been wanting to add a picture for awhile now.
Thank you so much, Elizabeth!!!! Dee, I love the new look and so much easier to get around on the blog!
Thank you, Joyce! We’re still in process, but I wanted it to be less about me and more about Him, and I think David caught it!
OK I did it lets see if it works:)
why does that not surprise me:)
Oh now it works:)
Yea!
Hello Ladies,
My name is Melody and I am getting into this study by the recommendation of my mother-in-law, Kim. I am in desperate need to get into the Word and live on Christ’s words as my daily bread. I want to better understand God’s love and goodness which I have had a distorted view of for most my life. I want to know of His love better so that I am free to love Him and do all for His glory. I know for years I have felt an urging by the Lord that I need to be seeking Him and growing in His Word, rather than staying stagnant as I have been in disobedience. Through this study, I hope to gain a passion and a fire for God’s Word and be strengthened spiritually.
Welcome, d*i*l! So glad you have joined us.
Welcome!
Welcome Melody!! So glad you are here! What a blessing it must be for both of you to be doing this study together!
Melody — how wonderful to have you. We love your mother-in-law and I know we will love you. Your desperation is what’s needed most to grow! We pray for that passion you have asked for to grow, and for you to experience His grace and presence.
Welcome Melody! It’s so fun to have you–I love your open humble honest heart already!
Thank you! I am really feeling the love from everyone!
6. In Hebrews 11:29-31, find three examples of being rescued from circumstances. Share a time when God rescued you from your circumstances. Walls of Jericho, Rahab and the Red Sea.
God rescued me and my children while in a sudden violent snowstorm many years ago. It was a whiteout for a few very frightening hours. A man came out of nowhere to help get us to a school where we could stay the night until the storm passed over. It was the scariest time of my life, long before cell phones were popular. Many people stayed in their cars all night and as a immature believer I don’t know how I would have handled that.
Great story! Thank you.
2. What are some word pictures the psalmist uses for God in verses 1-2?
Strength, rock, fortress, deliverer, refuge, shield, horn of my salvation, stronghold
3. How does he describe himself in verses 4-5? How does this express the feelings of drowning?
In this Psalm, David is describing the pain of seeing his death come near- “sorrows of Sheol” (or the land of the dead) surrounds him. He uses strong language – cords of death, torrents of destruction, and cords of the grave. Also, in the NIV verse 4 states, “torrents of destruction”, but in the NKJV it says, “the floods of ungodliness”. Interesting…. Ungodliness leads to destruction?.
4. In Psalm 18:6-19 the psalmist uses a dramatic word picture to describe God’s response to His child’s cry. Describe it.
I like how verse 6 says, (NKJV) “…And my cry came before Him, even to His ears.” He not only hears our cry, but our cry reaches to His ears. In my bible, a comment to verse 7 says that the Almighty will turn the universe inside out to deliver His servant. He got angry for David, for his rescue. The earth trembled, smoke went from his nostrils, DEVOURING fire, and He bowed the heavens. The Lord God does all this to rescue David. His power is inconceivable.
Great start, Melody.
Hi. My name is Barb and I am always looking for ways to draw closer to God. My husband and I have some health issues that certainly have resulted in grieving lost hopes and dreams, but our God is faithful. I really feel that we need to prepare so that we can share God’s comfort with those around us. I cannot imagine making it through any difficulty without the love and comfort of the Lord. It is amazing to me too, that the Lord could delight in me. It is easy to understand delighting in Him, He is the God of all creation; but he delights in each of us. It just boggles the mind.
Thank you so much for making this study available. I have never done a blog study before so this is exciting and new and I invited friends near and far to join. God bless you all, I look forward to growing with you.
Welcome, welcome, Barb.
Welcome Barb–wonderful to have you join us!
Wow — we have so many new wonderful women on this new journey. I am thankful for each one.
I am also so thankful for those of you who have been with us faithfully, have come alongside the new women to warmly welcome and encourage them.
Father,
I come to You on behalf of each of these women — the new ones You have brought, and the faithful ones who You have kept. Please be with us and make this journey one in which You go before us — a pillar of fire by night, a pillar of clouds by day. May we sense Your presence, Your power, and Your comfort. We open our hearts to You, to do what You know is for our best. Thank You that You are so intimate — that You hear our cry and come running to rescue Your desperate child. We know this is true because You went to the cross, for which we will be forever thankful.
In Jesus Name
Silverlene
I am so sorry about your loss, there are grief share groups around just go to http://www.griefshare.org and find one that is nearest you. I just finished this group last night and it has helped me alot! There is a session specifically on Stuck in Grief. I lost someone very close to me suddenly in February of this year. God Bless
Meg
how do you get so you can have a picture?
Here’s what Joyce suggests for the pictures:
“Go to ___Gravatar.com___ to set it up…it’s free.”
http://en.gravatar.com/ Here is the link to get a tiny picture of you. Click on “Get your Gravatar today” and follow instuctions.
6. In Hebrews 11:29-31, find three examples of being rescued from circumstances. Share a time when God rescued you from your circumstances.
When the Israelites were freed from slavery in Egypt-they passed through the red sea on dry ground.
When the walls of Jericho fell after they marched around it for seven days.
Rahab when she welcomed the spies was not killed with those who were disobedient.
7. Read Hebrews 11:36-40
A. Give a few examples from the above of those were not rescued from circumstances.
Some were flogged, ridiculed, cut in half, killed, destitute, persecuted.
B. And yet they WERE rescued. What promise is given in Hebrews 11:40? What is the “something better?”
That God had something better for them. Over time to be made perfect in holiness and in their joy of the Lord- maturity. I was also seeing in verses 14-16 that God has prepared a City for them. They were longing for heaven. Their hope wasn’t in the things of this world so they could lose the comforts of this world and walk in faith in the midst of their trials.
Oh God give me the faith of the saints of old. I want to be like them. Help me to not get tangled up in the cares of this world and keep my eyes focused on the hope that is within me-YOU..my hope is in you Lord and this Earth isn’t my home.
C. How can their trust in the midst of suffering help to make us “perfect” or mature?
Their example of faith in the midst of suffering is something we should follow. We are’with them’ in the faith really. I see a thread that most of them, while scared at times and struggling, didn’t focus on their circumstances, but rather their focus was on God because they knew their hope was in Him-ultimately they weren’t going to be on Earth and would be with Him in heaven.
When we see the great suffering they went through and how some of them stumbled sometimes like we do-I think of David. The main artery of the heroes of the faith was surrender to God which grew their faith and they became more mature, it encourages me that God isn’t finished with me yet and I need to yield myself to Him daily but even more so when it is harder to yield myself-in the midst of my trials. The cool part is that even when I struggle yielding He just wants me to ask Him to increase my faith. He will. 🙂 Over time this will bring maturity.
You know, it isn’t merely someone who is an academic, while that is valuable in the process of hearing what God is saying in scripture, rather it is someone who has learned to yield to God in their circumstances..someone of depth in the Lord..so much different than merely cerebral knowledge-or only of a do this and don’t do that mentality-in our own strength.
D. Share a time when God did not rescue you from your earthly circumstances, but gave you hope that one day things would be made right.
I guess for me, I can name a thousand, but overall God’s power has been shown in my life when my focus isn’t on making it right or desiring for Him to turn the trials around. Rather it is in the yielding to Him that He makes it right. By that I don’t mean my circumstances, but I mean he uses that trial to draw me closer to Him. I think I feel closest to Him when he doesn’t fix it and I go through the process of letting go and struggle and then into his arms, but as a result of the suffering I am drawn ever closer to Him and as I draw closer He helps me see that this trial was good. It is all weaved into the tapestry of my life in bringing me to maturity with a deeper trust and yielding to Him. There is nothing better than really resting in His arms. Nothing..If the trial were fixed it wouldn’t be better than resting in His arms. My eyes need to be finding Him more worthy than my trials.
I am thinking that as far as making it right I know one day God will make all things just and my hope IS indeed in that, but where I am at now is that I want to be so intimate with Jesus here on Earth that I live in such a way that I forsake the things of this world for Him and as I grow more intimate with Him it will be sooooo close as to being with Him face to face in Heaven that when I get there it will be the climax of my faith-unspeakable peace, holiness, finally at home with my dear Savior-my all in all. (I say this because this is my hope. I know I will struggle here on Earth though with the battle of the temptations.)
11. What stood out to you from the program? what stood out to me from the program was that God wants our honesty and that when i cry out to him he will hear me. and that he wants intimacy with us!
12. What stood out to you from the message? That GOD IS GOOD!
14. Why is it impossible to be intimate with someone who is dishonest? becasue you cant trust them and you back away from them.
15. What is your take-away from this week? The song It is well with my soul brought me gret comfort and a new meaning. Also the comment; It is not from our rightousness but from his mercy.
Welcome to all the new women – it’s wonderful to have so many joining us!
I just read Silverlene’s post and also am in agreement with all the prayers for you, Silverlene; I think; I’m trying to find the right words to express this – you are like the woman who grasped the edge of the hem of Jesus’ robe and it was all she could do through the crowd to get her fingers on His robe but she hung on and believed.
I am so very sorry for the loss of your husband. Please just keep hanging on to Jesus, even if it’s so very hard and you feel so completely unable; He will help you.
Hi Susan I think you found the right words. The early days and weeks were like a deep dark fog that I can’t begin to describe. I feel that I am coming out of the fog, but that means I really feel the pain. I hope I can continue to hold on to the hem of Jesus’ robe, because to let go means I will truly drown. There are many days when I am sure that will happen, because I just do not want to be in a world without my husband, but I know I need the faith to trust God and be a parent for our children. Thank you for your prayers.