When Tiger Woods was caught in his sin
He held a press conference, confessing and promising to change.
He longed to save his marriage and keep his children.
He promised to return to his Buddhist faith,
and try, with all his might, to live up to its standards.
Brit Hume of Fox News watched him with compassion
and then made a bold statement that caused a media frenzy,
as headlines everywhere said:
Brit Hume Says Tiger Woods Needs Jesus!
Here is the statement Brit made that surprised his fellow panelists:
http://www.godtube.com/watch/?v=99MBECNU
Here are just a few of the angry media responses.
Jay Bookman of the Atlanta Journal Constitution asserted that “faith is a private matter between that person and God, and is not a matter to be judged by some pompous TV anchor.”
Kathy Grossman of USA TODAY said Hume was “talking trash.”
John Farrell of U. S. News and World Report said “what a stupid thing to think.”
And bloggers went crazy with comments like:
“I’ve said it before, there was a very good reason why Rome threw them to the lions.”
Britt did not back down.
Because He knows that without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sin.
No other remedy.
No relief in anything else.
No forgiveness without the shedding of blood.
Yes, it seems strange to the world.
Even barbaric.
C. S. Lewis said one of the reasons he believed is that it was strange —
not something a man dreaming up a religion would decide.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer said that without suffering, there is no true forgiveness.
We know that is true if we have ever truly forgiven.
Someone has to pay.
In world religions, individuals supposedly find forgiveness by doing good works.
But we are so weak, we cannot keep it up.
In Christianity, Christ paid with His own precious blood.
And oh — there is power in the blood.
I didn’t truly understand it when I first heard it,
but in His grace He helped me respond
and then
Oh!
I knew.
I had tried to get out from under my burden
A burden I didn’t even fully realize I was carrying.
I tried so hard to undo my wrongs,
and to live a righteous life,
but I could not — and the burden was breaking me.
BUT OH!
The day I knelt and thanked Him for dying for me,
like Christian in Pilgrim’s Progress, my burden fell off and
I KNEW IT WHEN IT WAS GONE!
YES, TIGER WOODS NEEDS JESUS.
BECAUSE WE ALL DO.
WITHOUT THE SHEDDING OF BLOOD THERE IS NO FORGIVENESS OF SIN.
I love this version of There is Power in the Blood for Kristen Getty. Sing it with her in praise to the One who loved you so.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G1CpM-t8dB0&feature=related
It is easy to be bullied and to hesitate talking about the blood. Billy Graham was when asked to come to Cambridge. Keller tells this powerful story at the end of this week’s sermon — I hope you won’t miss it.
We must not be ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of salvation.
We must not be ashamed of Jesus, for no man comes to the Father but by Him.
We must not be ashamed of the blood, for without it, there is no forgiveness of sin.
FROM GENESIS TO REVELATION THERE IS AN INSISTENCE
ONLY THE BLOOD WILL SPARE US
ONLY THE BLOOD WILL CAUSE HIS WRATH TO PASS OVER US
ONLY IN THE BLOOD IS THEIR FORGIVENESS FOR SINS
THERE IS POWER IN THE BLOOD
Sunday/Monday Icebreakers
1. What stood out to you from the above and why?
2. Can you share a sentence testimony about the power of the blood in your life?
Monday-Wednesday Bible Study
3. Read Hebrews 9:11-14. There are four ways that the blood of Christ offered a more perfect sacrifice than that of goats and bulls. I’ll do the first and see if you can complete them. I used ESV.
A. Instead of coming to an earthly tabernacle made with hands, Christ appeared before God at a heavenly tabernacle (vs. 11)
B. (vs. 12) Instead of the blood of animals, Christ entered by __________________________________.
C. (vs 13) Instead of coming year after year, Christ secured an ___________________________.
D. (vs 14) Instead of just sanctifying the flesh, Christ’s blood has the power to purify our _________________.
4. Share a time when you were acutely aware that you no longer felt guilty — not because of your “dead” works, but because of what Christ did for you at the cross. You can share when you were saved from the penalty of sin, or a more recent time, when you sensed His cleansing of a sin.
5. Martin Luther said the default mode of the human heart is good works. What can you learn from this that will help you today? (See 1 John 1:7-9)
6. Read Hebrews 10:11-18
A. The sacrifices of the priests were a shadow of what was to come — but they could not do the most important thing. What was that, according to verse 11?
B. Find a meaningful phrase or two in verse 12 and explain why you chose it.
C. What time is Christ waiting for, according to verse 13?
D. What did Christ accomplish, according to verse 14?
E. In what ways is the new covenant different than the old covenant? Find at least two.
7. Read Hebrews 10:19-23 and explain what this could mean for you on this day — how you might apply it.
8. Read Hebrews 10:24-25
A. Our “meeting together” on this blog is a different kind of fellowship, but it has been fellowship indeed. What does this passage tell us to do and why?
B. What kind of responses from the other bloggers have stirred you up to love and to do good works?
Thursday-Friday Listen to “The Sacrifice” by Keller. It is 7th in the series, if you bought it, or you can purchase it individually here: Link
9. What notes do you have from the sermon?
10. What was the point of Keller’s story of Billy Graham at Cambridge? What did you think of that?
Saturday
11. What is your take-a-way and why?
244 comments
Sorry I’m late answering, I’ve been wanting to get here all week.
What stood out from the above? That the “world” or other non Christians are so hostile to any mention of Jesus. In our society its okay to be “spiritual”, but not Christian.
verse 12: he entered once for all into the holy places,…. by means of his own blood, thus securing an eternal redemption. This just impacted me as I read it, the Word of God is so alive, and I love it when a verse will just open up and make me see something I had known, but never realized before. He entered by his own blood. Amazing. And eternal redemption, eternal redemption.
Love the quote about “the default mode of the human heart is good works. This is so true, and often leads to the works verses faith discussion with others.
Dee your comment of your sense of God having chosen to remove the hedge. I’ve been wondering the same thing for both our countries, and it has increased my sense of need of crying out to God for His Mercy and His Grace for our beloved nations.
And for Mellany and others who have terrible hard things to confess, we all have sinned. Be encouraged by Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. verse 39:..nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our LORD. As I read your story Melllany this is the word I got to share. We are all messes, without our dear Saviour Jesus Christ, and we need him every hour as the song goes.
Great post, Phyllis. I agree with you that it is okay to be spiritual just not Christian. I missed what country you are from.
Yes, Phyllis. Interesting you feel that way for Canada too.
Our hope is in the unshakeable world.
So glad you are here.
Phyllis, yes such a sweet truth and I agree.
I agree with Dee that God is removing the hedge and it seems to be more obvious now as deception increases. God is going to redeem the Earth-everything that is unjust will be just, yet while we are here He tells us to love mercy, seek justice and walk humbly with Him..what aches my heart is the injustice on the unborn already and how that might get worse, the poor, the middle class, and the elderly. Yet God has that too and I am praying and asking what he would have us do to minister to one another and those who don’t know Him..This dark time could really be an opportunity for us.
7. Read Hebrews 10:19-23 and explain what this could mean for you on this day — how you might apply it.
I suppose I am to have faith in everything I do. Faith that God is good and assures me that He has a hand in all. Well, we should read our Bibles, and trust in the Lord. The verses imply that webshould come near to God, and as we do we come with a clear conscious and clean bodies (!). Does this refer to baptism? I guess on this day I shouldn’t worry about anything.
Sisters, I am happy to report I have been off of sugar and bread for 10 days with God’s help and I have been faithful to an exercise program I feel He brought me to which I really like (nothing short of miraculous!) but woke in terrible pain tonight. The pain is under my knees and I know I will have to stop exercising for a couple of days and return slowly. It is painful as I am losing wt. and feeling more energy than ever. I am thankful because I hear Him whispering to trust Him and rest in His plan for me. Maybe He wants me to not be in such a hurry – I don’t know. I am so very disappointed.
5. Martin Luther said the default mode of the human heart is good works. What can you learn from this that will help you today?
It helps me to remember that it is our nature to save ourselves, it’s what humans do – that soul bent on self reliance and we must let God root it out so we can fully lean on Him for salvation. It’s a struggle we all must come through sometime and reconcile before we really can enjoy the joy that He wants to bring. Having walked this road and come out the other side I don’t ever want to go back to the default mode.
6. Read Hebrews 10:11-18
A. The sacrifices of the priests were a shadow of what was to come — but they could not do the most important thing. What was that, according to verse 11?
They served a purpose for a time but would never take away sin.
B. Find a meaningful phrase or two in verse 12 and explain why you chose it
The priest (Jesus) sacrificed one time and it was enough to cover all sins for all time.
Good for you, Kim — praying you will continue — and be wise about exercise too. Love that pool at the hospital — maybe you could do that for a while!
Kim,
This is encouraging and I’m with Dee – swimming would be a great exercise without the weight-bearing strain on your joints!
Great advice ladies but you haven’t had the frightening experience of seeing this chick in a swimsuit. I’d have to do a Duggar suit!
I am traveling to Atlanta to visit my mom who has been in the hospital for a month now. She is slowly recuperating from her fall, but still needs to be weaned from the ventilator. She has been through a hard few weeks. Hopefully they will move her from ICU to the long term acute care facility today. Please pray for traveling mercies. I will still be on the blog as I can.
Lord, please go with Laura-dancer and may this be a great blessing to her mother — and to Laura!
Love to you all! This week has been crazy weird busy! I have done the study without answering questions here. It always stirs me. God is so amazing.
Listening to Dee’s recommendation of Psalm 42 sermon. Very good!
There is a free conference today on God’s Design in Disability starting at 9:30EST I will be listening to today. Thought some of you may like it. http://www.desiringgod.org/live
Seeking prayer and guidance this morning.
Kim braught up a point about the many deaths of the unborn that happen daily in our nation and the subject of abortion is weighing heavy on my heart and has been for quite sometime.
I shared a picture I took one afternoon going home from the office. It’s a picture of 3,560 crosses on the lawn of aCatholic church.
I posted it with a question, ” can anyone guess how many of these crosses represent an actual “rape”?”
I received some who were alarmed, some who were angry. One asked what the answer was, but won’t give. Instead I encouraged people to do their own research.
But I will let you know.
3700 abortions happen per day. 10 percent are the result of rape.
I have always been Pro-Life. All my life.
When I learned I was pregnant, Angela’s father said he would give me money for an abortion but also knew I wouldn’t take it. Surprising because he was a Muslim.
I had a woman OB/GYN hint that she does abortions. She was also made a rude comment toward me in the room when I was embarrsed about putting my feet on the stirrups saying “I had no problems opening my legs before”. Embarrassing for a girl who thought she was in love ( naive).
On the way to work this morning I was thinking about this experiance and my own as a single mom. I thought how beautiful my daughter has turned out. How she is living for God and is married with her own family.
How I want to show young girls who are in a predicament much like my own the world of possibilities that can happen if they give that baby a chance to live.
How do I make a difference in bringing down that overwhelming number?
This is my burden.
We can’t wait on a politician for a answer. I know there are more women like me out there with this burden.
This isn’t a political problem. I know I’m on an island on my political views right mowing the Christian world.
I too can share the hardships of being an unwed mom to a biaracial child and being ostracized by the “compassionate conservative” community. Living from shelters, livingrooms and boarding rooms. Refusal of coverage for my asthmatic daughter because my meager earnings was considered to much. I was yold because i live in a Republican county I will not get help. I was told to quite my job or move to Cook county. So like many, I used the ER as a doctors office. And then there is being alone.
Jesus Christ never failed me. NEVER.
When I dedicated my daughter in the Pentecostal church . I meant it. I asked the Lord to help raise her and I will give her back. His Hand was on her all through her life and all the possibilities of what a blessed life looked like for a young girl came her way. Dolls, pretty dresses, first love and first hurt, exceptional grades in school, friends, family, church community, acceptance into a private University, true love, marriage, baby, dog, home and most of all a ministry that is making an impact on the youth in our church.
She is the result of the possibilities that life can provide!
I am praying for wisdom.
Beautiful and somber testimony, Laura Marie. Thank you for sharing that. You are quite a warrior for the Lord by your life and witness.
What a story Laura Marie.
That doctor should not be practicing medicine.
Thanks for sharing — proud of you!
I shared my testimony because I don’t think the issue of abortion will be solved through politics.
We have seen how is sounds through a politician and it gets distorted. And don’t want my ear tickled with the unrealistic view that Roe vs Wade will be overturned.
There are women like myself who chose life and we need to speak out!
Please join me in prayer as the church regroups itself and positions itself to fight an ancient battle that will not be legislated away.
God Bless!
Laura Marie–as a mom of adopted children, from situations where abortion had been considered, I SO appreciate your conviction, your courage, and the passion you share here. I agree with Susan about speaking to young women–pregnancy center sounds like a great idea. High schools come to mind too. Your story–the way the Lord strengthened you against such difficult circumstances–is truly incredible.
This is a beautiful testimony, Laura Marie, of how God worked in your life and in your daughter’s life. You certainly do have a personal story to share, one of hope and encouragement to young women who find themselves pregnant, scared, and alone. I wonder if there is a pregnancy center in your community (Christian) where you could volunteer to counsel the young women who come through their doors? YOu have much to offer!
Susan, I am looking into that. My work load has been heavy because I work as an Analyst for a big hospital that is currently in a merge in their software system with another hospital. ( BTW I have a testimony for how I got this position as well 🙂
But I know I have remained silent to long and it is a “farce” for lack of better word to be drilling the issue of rape which is tragic enough, as the platform for abortion.
I have followed the statistics and know the most abortions that happen are out of economics.
Young mothers need not just the word “hope” throw out there but actual testimonies from women who share that struggle. And have compassion!
I have been thinking of having a video done with several Christian women like myself who want to share their testimonies for the one’s who are seeking the life alternative.
If we can’t reverse the law, and their GOP women who are Pro Choice. We can certainly make some kind of difference around us!
Laura Marie, I have felt similar convictions about the need to speak out. I was an unwed pregnant 17 year old, it felt then as if my life was over, but it wasn’t.
It was so ironic to me then that people who shamed me for being pregnant said “Congratulations” once Josh was born.
Oh Laura Marie, I share your desire for wisdom! Lord Jesus, what can we do? How can we be a part of the solution. Help us not lag behind or run ahead. We need your guidance. Show us the way and we will walk in it. Amen.
I was the secretary for 4 or so years on the local crisis pregnancy board but am asking what more can I do. My heart is heavy but I think seeking God is a good first step.
Thank you Kim because your conviction has stirred me as well.
I am a consistant Pro-Life even because of rape. The definition of life does not change.
I asked my friends on FB when I posted the 3570 crosses this question;
“do we have a rape issue in this country or a abortion as birth control issue?
I’ve had two friend from different polar opposite political opinion weigh in and each accussed the other’s economic stance be the wrong solution.
That’s why we “church” can’t wait for the politics to happen.
WE have to reach out to the community through Christ!
He makes all things possible!!
let me clarify… we do have a rape problem and the laws need to be more stern towards the offender.
rape is horrible in itself. the number “3700” the latest statistic, is overwhelming.
Laura Marie, your story touches me greatly. Although I am pro life now, it wasn’t always that way for me. You could say I “grew up” and changed my mind (I guess you aren’t allowed to do that these days). When I was 18 I was a coward. I got pregnant and then actually had an abortion. It is sad. I struggle with the thought that I made that decision. I couldn’t believe it happened to me. I still don’t know if God forgives me. In my heart I think He does. He has given me “troubled” children to help me understand how He could forgive me. I forgive my own children when they do stupid things.
We, unfortunately, will probably never have Roe vs. Wade off the books. It’s unbelievable that women in this country thought the contender could have that kind of power. Shows how people don’t understand our government. Anyway, I digress (and I promised Dee I wouldn’t!) most people don’t know that the woman of R v W was lied to and regrets ever having anything to do with the individuals who propped her up to represent the case for abortion. (see nancy leigh demoss’ podcast interviewing this woman several years ago; I will find it and post as soon as i can. It is a great interview and series). however, we CAN help young women make a better decision. I have helped the center for law and justice (http://aclj.org/) in the fight for life, as well as the Susan B. Anthony group – http://www.sba-list.org/ . It is my way of reminding myself how stupid I was, and trying to give back when I took a life. These groups keep up with the news and might have ways for you to reach the young women you want to connect with on the issue. They might be a good place to start.
God bless you for your intelligent, informed decision. Thank God for you and your daughter.
Laura-Dancer, as we are learning in this series. Your forgiveness is covered by the Blood!
God chose to forgive you because it is in His DNA, you must forgive yourself!
You have a testimony that needs to be heard!
We can NO LONGER wait for a Politican to do the work that the church needs to be doing! We have seen the diaster that has played out.
It is high time women like us speak up and reach out to those girls who are facing these hard decisions.
This is my burden.
When I posted statistics , I got a lot of flack. But I DON’T care! Lives are hanging in the balance.literally.
God Bless for sharing the Nancy Leigh DeMoss segment on the Justice Foundation.
I am currently looking into Care Net in my area as well as a few other organizations.
🙂 Look up!
3. Read Hebrews 9:11-14. There are four ways that the blood of Christ offered a more perfect sacrifice than that of goats and bulls. I’ll do the first and see if you can complete them. I used ESV.
A. Instead of coming to an earthly tabernacle made with hands, Christ appeared before God at a heavenly tabernacle (vs. 11)
B. (vs. 12) Instead of the blood of animals, Christ entered by _____His own blood_____________________________.
C. (vs 13) Instead of coming year after year, Christ secured an _____eternal Spirit ? He replaced the Levitical Law that cleansed the flesh…His sacrifice cleanses our spirits______________________.
D. (vs 14) Instead of just sanctifying the flesh, Christ’s blood has the power to purify our ___I think I answered that in C______________.
A. The sacrifices of the priests were a shadow of what was to come — but they could not do the most important thing. What was that, according to verse 11?
They can never take away the sins…only roll them “ahead”. I think that’s what the OT priests were capable of which is rolling the sins of the people ahead another year meaning they couldcompletely remove sin.
B. Find a meaningful phrase or two in verse 12 and explain why you chose it.
“But this Man ( Jesus) after He had offered one sacrifice for sins forever… God gave Himself a sacrifice that can never be replicated! No good deed or good man can ever duplicate the sacrifice Christ made at Calvery!
C. What time is Christ waiting for, according to verse 13? For the time where He will make His enemies His footstool.
D. What did Christ accomplish, according to verse 14?
Perfection by sanctification?
E. In what ways is the new covenant different than the old covenant? Find at least two.
The old covenant provided forgiveness through works of sacrifice. The sin is never permanently removed.
The new covenant provides complete forgiveness through Grace. Amen
8. Read Hebrews 10:24-25
A. Our “meeting together” on this blog is a different kind of fellowship, but it has been fellowship indeed. What does this passage tell us to do and why?
We stir one another to love and good deeds, and encourage one another, and should not neglect meeting together.
B. What kind of responses from the other bloggers have stirred you up to love and to do good works?
I can’t think of specifics right now but many of you have encouraged me. When I first came on the blog a year ago, I needed good teaching and a listening ear and encouragement and I got it here. Time and time again you have encouraged me to contribute my perspective here and prayed for me in the hard times. Also, your testimonies encourage me to keep on. We are all fellow travellers and many have gone through deep struggles yet persevered in the faith. This gives me hope when the path seems shrouded in pain and loss. Dee’s teaching and Keller’s sermons have given me a deeper perspective from which I also can minister to others and understand my own struggles. You have provided invaluable assistance to me in walking my journey.
love having you here Diane–I always appreciate your wise perspective–and that even amidst such trials, you are still here, and faithfully seeking Him.
Do you have an update from the psychiatrist appt–it was today, right? praying~
Thanks for asking, Elizabeth. You truly have a heart for others. I don’t have the details of the psychiatric appointment yet but Krista coming here with the boys tomorrow for the weekend and says she will give details then in person. Tonight she staying with the boys, Jeff and the live-in aunt and uncle at her (former?) home and could use prayers for patience and wisdom and in general God’s hand at work. I am quite concerned because this will be tense, I suspect.
oh dear Diane, will stop now and pray for tonight especially–praying too that you can release it to Him I can’t imagine myself doing that as my ‘stuff’ is tiny in comparison and I still try to fix, but I will pray He covers you with His peace
praying too Diane
7. Read Hebrews 10:19-23 and explain what this could mean for you on this day — how you might apply it.
When I think about the great lengths that those in the OT had to go to—the sacrifices, that were never ending, never enough. And then really, really let it sink in that I, little ME, can go into the HOLY OF HOLIES—with nothing in my hands, no special ceremony—just me. I can approach the Throne, not with fear, but with confidence, with a clear conscience—it’s just incredible.
So today, I go to the Holy place, and I just want to put my head down a His feet. I feel weary, achy. My words have not been kind. I have challenges He has allowed, and with one—I often respond with exasperation and anger. I want to lay it all down at His feet. He washes me pure and clean. My hope lies in Him alone. He has the power to work in hearts, to change me, and draw little hearts to Himself. He alone has the power to heal. He is the only One who can help me, and He will remain faithful. So I confess Lord the ways I am so weak, so icky. I confess my attitude of frustration, not trusting. I cling to You as my unfailing Hope.
If I believe it, how does it change me, today? If I believe God has my child’s heart and that no matter how much repeated disobedience, He still loves and is gracious—then how can I not be stirred to do the same. And my physical pain that is still more present than I want, I am thankful it is not worse, and I will remember and believe He hears me when I cry to Him, He cares, and He is faithful. And that washes away the despair, the hopelessness. We cannot be without hope—it is impossible, as a Christian, for me to be without hope. Thank You Lord.
8. Read Hebrews 10:24-25
A. Our “meeting together” on this blog is a different kind of fellowship, but it has been fellowship indeed. What does this passage tell us to do and why?
Think about ways to encourage each other—it tells us to be proactive about it.
Do not neglect the time together, learning and growing together.
Why?
1. The Day is approaching, and we want to be ready.
2. I think the author tells us this because it is so easy “as is the habit of some” to get too busy and let the tyranny of the urgent overtake our time of fellowship and growing in His Word.
3. Also think we need to be reminded to encourage each other—sometimes I think we forget just how much our words can mean to another.
Hope this isn’t a rabbit trail, but it encouraged me reading this. I never ever go clothes shopping, I actually hate it, but my “go-to” wool sweater is from high school(!) and I felt it was time…so I went in Old Navy hoping for a sale. The one I liked was over my budget, so I was headed out, and a woman stopped me and gave me her coupon for $$$ (a lot) off, saying she couldn’t use it. It made the sweater a deal, so I got it. I left and was headed to Target, but was praying for the woman, just felt like she needed it, and I wanted God to bless her. As I shopped groceries, I kept praying I would somehow see that woman, some day, and be able to thank her. About 20 minutes later, as I was ready to check out, I saw her. I went over and thanked her for helping me afford the sweater. And then I realized why God had set this up. She just started pouring out her heart. For almost 30 minutes she told me about her child with severe autism, her struggle as a mom… I told her I had prayed I’d run into her and she told me she was a Christian too. OK, my point (so sorry for anyone actually reading all this!)—I am so often in a hurry and just too busy for people. Even at work with people I love, I just want to get my stuff done as quickly as possible–I am not typically a “chatter”…but I was convicted yesterday. Yes, she was a Christian, so I didn’t need to evangelize—but she needed an ear, some encouragement. It really made me think about how many people along my path I rush past, who God has placed there for me to encourage.
I am so encouraged by your shopping story.
God provided for each of you through one another, you were both being His hands & feet, showing His love!
I needed to feel encouraged tonight, thank you Elizabeth!
What a marvelous story, Elizabeth. Thanks so for sharing — hope people read it!
Elizabeth, Loved this! I read this last night but we were out so I couldn’t comment. Really loved this story and it is not a rabbit trail! 🙂 I am thrilled at how God moved in this to bring this woman His comfort through you..this is a great testimony of how He is intimate with us.
This is great, Elizabeth! Definitely was a God-arranged meeting with this woman!
Thanks so much for sharing this, Elizabeth… I just LOVE to think what things like this mean in the bigger scheme of things. I envision God’s tapestry…we don’t see how how the stitches line up, but He does :). All part of His plan.
Martin Luther said the default mode of the human heart is good works. What can you learn from this that will help you today? (See 1 John 1:7-9)
I can learn to release the self condemning internal dialogue that I need to “do better” I can run to Christ , confess my sin, and believe He receives me, that He will supply the power to change my heart as I focus on Him.
I am glad of Him mercy, that Jesus knows how hard this is to live out, He remembers that I am dust
Psalm 103
11 For as high as the heavens are above the earth,
so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him;
12 as far as the east is from the west,
so far does he remove our transgressions from us.
13 As a father shows compassion to his children,
so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him.
14 For he knows our frame;
he remembers that we are dust.
such a good reminder chris, thank you “so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him;”
5. Martin Luther said the default mode of the human heart is good works. What can you learn from this that will help you today? (See 1 John 1:7-9)
That I can easily fall into this daily so I must be on guard!! I think feeling guilty when I sin can lead to works righteousness-or a self salvation strategy-so as I grow deeper in resting in His finished work on the cross- that I stand righteous before Him and he won’t abandon me when I sin, and as intimacy grows, then real fruit flows out of that and my good works flow from faith not from guilt because they are Christ centered, not me centered. There is a huge difference! 🙂
This helps me because when I sin, which I do daily-it is now more like I grieve God’s heart and our fellowship will be hindered than ‘he will punish me, or abandon me’, yet really I am tasting more of his fierce jealousy for me, His holiness-and His love, so there is this falling on my face kind of thing inside trembling at His holiness, yet this warm, secure blanket of His faithfulness and love at the same time-He is the Lion and the Lamb.
rebecca–i like your trembling/warm blanket picture–yes, Lion and Lamb–SO thankful He is BOTH…Truth and Grace
5. Martin Luther said the default mode of the human heart is good works. What can you learn from this that will help you today? (See 1 John 1:7-9)
It’s more than just good works. Having true fellowship with God is walking in His Light daily.
Having fellowship with Christ means a life where we die daily to our flesh . How we do that is to realize we are capable of sin. Paul said that he “dies daily”.
My observation of that is to acknowledge sin and ask forgiveness when we sin. The Blood of Christ is what washes away our sins. God is Holy and will not dwell in an unholy temple ( ourselves ).
The Blood is that covering of our confessed sins.
Walking in the Spirit with give us fellowship with God.
7. Read Hebrews 10:19-23 and explain what this could mean for you on this day – how you might apply it.
This passage reminds me again that we have a Hero, that the Bible is not about me and what I’m supposed to do, but about what He has done. I see here that I have a very special privilege to draw near to God, to enter the Most Holy Place, because of what He has done for me – Jesus shed His blood and opened the way for me to come in; yes, I find a priest in that inner sanctuary, but He is my great High Priest and He welcomes my presence; He has sprinkled my heart and washed me to make me clean and acceptable, and He is faithful to keep His promises to me.
Since discouragement comes in some form to me almost daily, and the enemy is always whispering his lies, these are words to live by and hold on to. These words invite me to come away to that secret place where I can abide and rest in Him.
8. Read Hebrews 10:24-25
A. Our “meeting together” on this blog is a different kind of fellowship, but it has been fellowship indeed. What does this passage tell us to do and why?
We are not to give up meeting together with other believers – the Christian life is hard enough, but it really gets tough to try and go it alone. We are to encourage one another, and spend time thinking about how we can encourage and motivate each other to learn to love and to show that love with our actions.
B. What kind of responses from the other bloggers have stirred you up to love and to do good works?
Wow – there are so many examples! Well, one is how Dee handled a relative who was angry with her about her political comment and had written her a letter that was hard to read! Dee made the first move to reconcile the relationship, and told us about it so we could pray. Many of you write about how you give grace to your children in difficult circumstances – I’m thinking of Rebecca when her son wanted her to go outside but she was “on task”, and she received the hard things he had to say to her and responded with humility and repentance. Dawn has had difficult situations with co-workers and we’ve watched her journey through this. We all have families and friends and similar temptations and problems, but it is encouraging to see examples of responding in the right ways, or even at first responding the wrong way, but turning from that and doing the right thing.
There’s so much godly wisdom to be found here.
loved this Susan “These words invite me to come away to that secret place where I can abide and rest in Him.”
Read Tim Keller’s book on self-forgetfulness and see much of that in you, Susan. Other-centeredness.
The sacrifices of the priests were a shadow of what was to come — but they could not do the most important thing. What was that, according to verse 11?
Take away sin
Find a meaningful phrase or two in verse 12 and explain why you chose it.
The Message has the first four words of verse 12 “As a priest, Christ”, it is reassuring to know we have a perfect advocate, one that doesn’t goof up pleading our case before the Father, he bore our penalty and now stands up for us, waiting till our accuser is silenced.
What time is Christ waiting for, according to verse 13?
Oops! I answered that above! It is wonderful to imagine heaven, no sin, no lies, perfect peace, perfect love.
D. What did Christ accomplish, according to verse 14? He made us perfect for all time, I sure feel imperfect, this is hard to grasp, that our slate is clean
In what ways is the new covenant different than the old covenant? Find at least two.
1)The law is now written on our hearts and in our minds
2)There is no need for continual sacrifice
3)God will not remember our sin!
8. Read Hebrews 10:24-25
A. Our “meeting together” on this blog is a different kind of fellowship, but it has been fellowship indeed. What does this passage tell us to do and why?
We must be connected and encourage on another.
B. What kind of responses from the other bloggers have stirred you up to love and to do good works?
Many women here are good people. I see so much love and compassion in them. That in itself is encouraging! When I need a lift, Elizabeth posts a song, when I begin to lose faith, Rebecca notes a Bible verse, and of course all the prayer warriors are here to pray!!!! Thank you ladies for being a super meeting place for all 🙂
Hi Laura Marie,
Here is the podcast about Roe v Wade as well as the companion case Doe v Bolton (has to do with partial birth abortions).
http://www.reviveourhearts.com/radio/revive-our-hearts/no-choices/
Nancy talks with another group called the “justice foundation.” There is a written transcript as well as the podcast itself.
Thank Laura-Dancer!
This has given good insight!
B. What kind of responses from the other bloggers have stirred you up to love and to do good works?
Well, we are now on our 2nd week of sickness (other child this time!)…so I am going to have to be quicker here than I intended–but wanted to get to this question.
I used to feel ‘funny’ when I would tell ‘face-to-face’ friends about this place, and how often I would refer to something one of you had said that challenged, convicted, or encouraged me. Now I just thank Him. What a gift. A gift I don’t really think any of us expected. The vulnerability to share here humbles me. The way so many of you have listened to my heart and cared, prayed. I learn from each one of you. each of us have significant struggles, and significant joys. I learn from each one. The teaching from Dee—it is truly a God-given gift and I am so thankful He chose to allow me to be a part of this ‘place’.
And we are so glad you are here and stay here — and may the Lord put His healing hand on your family.
What notes do you have from the sermon?
This is wordy but I am trying to put into words some things I have been thinking about. I think I am seeing more clearly the purpose of blood in the forgiveness of sins and the necessity of blood in salvation. Having been brought up in an evangelical Christian church, the blood has always just been part of the Christian faith that I accepted without really thinking about. But this week as we studied about it, I tried to see it from the perspective of someone who was on the outside trying to understand Christianity.
This part is directly from Keller: When a wrong happens, even to you with our underdeveloped understanding of justice, either you suffer or the other person suffers, but somebody has got to suffer. How much more with God with his perfect sense of justice? He sees us destroying one another, destroying his creation. When he looks at our sin, there are only two things that can happen. He can judge us and then we suffer, or He can forgive us and then he suffers. He pays the debt. Real forgiveness is always suffering. On the cross, God came and he did not come to inflict more violence and evil on the world, but to absorb it so he could destroy the power of evil.
Although Keller has mentioned about the costliness of Jesus’ sacrifice many times in the sermons I have listened to, I understand now, in a deeper way, the cost of forgiveness, the deep cost. I understand in a new way how, from a human perspective, how difficult forgiveness is, how painful it is, and how much it costs the forgiver. This understanding is from personal experience and from observing the experiences of others.
Considering what our terrible sins (personally and as the human race), the only way we could be forgiven by God was at GREAT cost – paying for it himself in His blood on the Cross. I also noted in my Scripture reading this week how much in agony Jesus was in the Garden of Gethsemane, so much that he sweated drops of blood. I am sure that is of great significance. He pleaded with God not to have to die, but He realized there was no other way, and He submitted willingly to the crucifixion because of his great love for us.
In addition, while it is truly hard to forgive, but the cost of NOT forgiving is, as Keller says, becoming hard and evil oneself. This too sadly, I have observed. How very sad.
Diane–I have not been able to type up my notes yet, but OH, I am so blessed by reading yours here. I’m going to re-read a few times, hope all will. I hear your pain in it too–which strengthens it for me somehow. Thank you for all your wrote here–I know the depth of it comes from your personal suffering, the cost of forgiveness.
Diane,
Thanks so much for your notes. I downloaded the sermon a couple days ago, but haven’t listened yet. I was struck by what you wrote about the cost — how painful it is to forgive when we’ve been hurt deeply. And then to think of ALL our wrongs piled on Jesus. His pain was unfathomable. This gives me perspective on forgiving others; when I consider the context of how much I’ve been forgiven and the extent Jesus suffered for us, my heart melts. I become less stubborn about my own grievances.
Continuing to pray for you and your family.
Diane — so good to try to see from the perspective of one outside of the Christian faith and you have done so well!
Love how you are pondering the cost of forgiveness, Diane.
Hi sister’s, I’m sorry I haven’t been on. I’ve been “Blue” too, Kim…some of it since the election…as my husband are just on Social Security and I have my disability. We do have his insurance from his work, but we pay for it and it’s not cheap either. We are on medicare, also. We are worried about our future too, but I must just give it over to our Lord, as he is our true leader.
I’ve been depressed about everything. I do see my Dr. next week. I can’t seem to snap out of this. Diane, maybe you could give me some idea’s as to what to do. (Thinking about Krista, e-mail when you get some extra time). I’m still trying to catch up reading comments…love you all.
Sweet Joyce–have missed you. So sorry to hear that you are feeling so down. I will for the Dr to have wisdom, and to be able to offer a change in medicine, or something that may help. I will pray you to feel His comfort–like the little birds in the picture you gave us, under His wings. So sorry Joyce, love to you~
So sorry to hear about your depression, Joyce. Praying for you.
Joyce — this morning I was thinking of all you have had to carry — and more recently after your daughter’s visit. I’m going to ask all to truly pray for you. You are so loved here.
Dear Joyce,
I am praying for you and I am so glad you reached out and told us how you are feeling. I am thankful that you are seeing your doctor next week, and will pray for that, too. I pray that you can honestly and clearly communicate to him the depth of your depression, that you can’t “snap out of it”. You have so many burdens to bear, Joyce, yet you always think of others and their problems, too.
Wish I could give you a big hug, Joyce – but sending one to you here!
I am so sorry to hear this Joyce. I am praying that you find comfort in our Lord this week. Love and hugs to you 🙂
I am so sorry you are struggling with depression, on top of all your struggles physically and with your daughter’s disability needs. I think anyone would be struggling emotionally with the load you carry. Please tell the doctor all that you are going through.
I am a bit confused why you would ask for my advice on this, but I appreciate your trusting me enough to ask. Are you getting out at all without Kendra? You need to have some time without her to help gain perspective on life. Also, is it possible that some of your medication may be causing or worsening the depression?
Do you have anyone to help you care for your daughter at this time? I really think you need extra help, though I realize that may not be possible financially. I also think you need to be checking into what is available locally for long-term care for her when you are not able to care for her physically any more. I know this might be emotionally difficult but check out the possibilities now and talk this over with your family so they will know what is available and what you would want done. Making plans now may help to alleviate some of the stress you are under now because of your worry for the future.
You are so special. You have been so faithful in caring for Kendra, and in trying to raise the others well against difficult odds. The Lord bless you. I’m praying for you.
Dear sisters, as I write this I stand next to my moms hospital bed. I am trying not to cry. She is very ill. I am not good with these things at all. My heart is breaking because I feel so helpless. I will be here until Monday and hopefully they can wean her enough off the ventilator so she can talk to us. I know she is upset and can’t communicate her feelings to us because her right arm is broken (so she can’t write). It is so difficult to see her like this. Please pray for mom to heal quickly (she has actually has slowly but surely gotten better). Please pray that I remain strong this weekend.
oh Laura-dancer–just saw this and I am SO so sorry. I will be praying right now.
Laura – dancer, I am SO sorry. I am praying for you and her right now and crying for you as I read this. Praying that your love for each other and God’s love for both of you will communicate for you and that both of you will experience His peace.
The fact that your heart is breaking shows me that you ARE “good with these things.” The challenge is that it HURTS LIKE CRAZY and is very, very hard. I don’t know your Mom, but I suspect that it’s okay that she sees tears. Tell her that your tears are there because you love her, you do feel helpless, and that you sense she is frustrated because she can’t talk yet. Your loving response to her indicates to me that she would feel the same way if your positions were reversed. Praying that you will cherish BEING WITH each other even though it is painful.
I am praying right now, dear sister!
Laura, I am praying for you to be strong and for quick healing for your dear mother…I’m so sorry.
Father — please be with Laura-dancer’s mother and with Laura. Envelop them in Your peace and give Laura Your strength.
In Jesus Name
Praying for your mom this morning Laura!
Laura,
Praying for you and your mom. I am so, so sorry for the pain both of you are suffering. I know your mom has been sick for a long time. I am glad you found a way to be with her now. I think Renee’s thoughts about your tears are so good – it’s okay to let them flow.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lklq1ss3EM4&feature=colike Love this old fashion version of Power in the Blood…I love it and played it so much in the car, Kendra picked up on it and wanted her own CD and now plays it in her room alot.
As I am reading the posts here, I am praying for Mellany and for Krista. I haven’t finished reading all the comments yet, so I’m sure there are more to pray for. So much pain that I’m feeling better about mine. I have no worries considering our sister’s here, in pain.
I’m praying for Krista, Diane and for you, Mellany and for you Laura and your mom.
Let us be praying for our sisters today —
Joyce has so much and is down —
Krista and Dianne
Laura-dancer with her mother
Father, I lift up Joyce and ask for You to lift her spirits — help her sense Your deep love for her and Your control over her life.
I ask that You would be near Krista and give her the desire to get help, and give her good help — and give Dianne your peace.
I ask for Your kindness to Laura-dancer’s mother and to give strength to Laura-dancer.
Yes, Lord, I agree with these prayers and come before Your Throne today for my dear sisters. That You would grant Joyce a comfort only You can bring; healing for Krista, peace for Diane; Your loving care to cover Laura-dancer and her mom in this painful time. Thank You Lord that we can come before You.
Me, too – please Lord, hear our prayers.
I woke up to a issue with my computer..taking longer than I thought to fix it..on my phone right now and wanted to tell Joyce, Diane and Laura Dancer I am praying..love you and it breaks my heart you are all hurting so..
Please remember my sister Kathie’s husband Bill this morning as well. He had a heart attack at work yesterday and they found 3 blockages.
He has an ongoing history with heart problems and neither one can afford to quit their jobs.
My sister has health issues as well and no coverage in order to seek the proper medical attention she should be getting.
I am praying that Bill’s employer will show compassion and cover my sister. Right now only Bill has coverage.
Praying for Kathie and Bill, for their health and need for God’s provision for insurance.
9. What notes do you have from the sermon?
I came away with a different perspective on guilt – kind of a more healthy one. Keller used the example from Andrew Delbanco’s book, saying “Guilt is the last possible link you have with any assurance that you are significant. If you want to get rid of guilt, the price is all significance and meaning in life.”
So guilt, I might say, is actually a gift from God; our conscience is a gift. Thankful He doesn’t give us “false” guilt, or give us guilt to beat us down, but to make us look up and find the only solution to it. I think it was Steve Brown who once said he was thankful for his sin, and he meant that it made him go to God.
Bonhoeffer’s quote about when you truly forgive, you will suffer. It makes me think of the choice set before God. To exact His vengeance on us, or to forgive, and absorb into Himself every wicked and vile thing we’ve done. And it’s not just our sinful acts, it’s what those acts represent – hatred toward God, indifference toward a loving God, rejection of Him. How it must have hurt Him in a way I cannot fathom to forgive me.
I’m with Diane in that this sermon really makes me ponder the cost of forgiveness.
10. What was the point of Keller’s story of Billy Graham at Cambridge? What did you think of that?
Graham thought he had to write brilliant, intellectual sermons to fit in speaking at Cambridge with those elite students and faculty. But nothing was happening. So on the third night, he scrapped his prepared sermon and simply spoke on what the Cross of Christ meant to him, personally. That’s when the power of the blood of Christ was released and 400 students’ hearts were changed. The gospel even though when you really think about it is unfathomable to our finite minds, has a simplicity to it that grabs the heart.
I think when Billy let go of his approval idol, God was able to use him. I think God was just waiting for him to throw those fancy speeches away.
🙂 (Last sentence)
Laura Marie, are their two of you? One has a picture and the other one doesn’t. Anyway, for you, Laura Marie (no picture!) I am praying for your sister, Kathie’s husband Bill. When is his surgery? I pray for a good report, regarding his heart and the surgery and for your sister’s health and for their jobs and health coverage for Kathie. It’s a very scary time for us all, especially without insurance. Please keep us posted about Bill’s surgery and recovery. I’m praying now for them.
Thank you for all your prayer’s, I felt them today. Some days are better than others. It helps to concetrate on other’s problems and pray for them. That’s what I plan on doing here and not slip away and get to feeling sorry for myself. I need all of you and to be your prayer warrior…it helps myself too.
Diane, I ask for your help because you are helping Krista and I thought maybe you had some insight on depression, because of what she is going through.
You had some good thoughts. No I don’t get away from Kendra very much. I might sneek away while my husband is here, to the bank or the store, but never for long, as I help her in the bathroom. She doesn’t like dad to help, but he does good when I need him too. Kendra has a helper come and take her to a movie or go shopping or whatever for 1 to 2 hours, once a week, also.
I have tried several younger gals to help, but I have discovered that most of the younger generation doesn’t really want to work. They haven’t worked out well at all. But I think the Lord has helped me find someone. I found this 50’ish lady through an ad wanting home’s to clean, so I called her, as I just can’t vacume and mop and we have this hugh old house with an upstairs and down and it’s just too much for me anymore with my back. So she came to just give me an estamate and the more we talked, the more we had in common. She is a christian and has a special needs son, about Kendra’s age…25, that has siezures’s also. They lost a son in Irac 3 years ago and the pain is so raw. So we talked and become fast friends. She has come to help me clean about 4 times now and she does wonderful work and is a go getter! She has the work ethic, that so many young kids don’t! She is the type I used to be, when I was younger…she can’t sit still, she has to be doing something all the time!
So, we have talked about Kendra and she is willing to come and shower her or whatever I needed, with the same pay, as cleaning. And she would be good, because she has a daughter in 6th grade too, and knows all about girls too!
Kendra can have help almost full time, by the State of NE…up to $13.00 an hour. I think she is aloted about $80,000.00 a year! It is called Community Service and it helps kids to become independent and will pay a caregiver up to that much a yr. It would pay someone to help her in a group home. So that money is just going back into the program, as Kendra is only using a very small portion of it, with the girl that comes to get her once a week. So I need to get Connie (the cleaning lady) signed up to get paid for helping Kendra. So we won’t even have to pay her ourselves. So hopefully things will get better soon.
So Yes, we have discussed Kendra’s future and many of you know that it is my biggest worry. My husband has a farm and a house on it that is rented now, but the plan is to retire there, as he wants so badly to live on the farm, as for 35 years working for the Gas Co., they never allowed him to live out of the city limits. So it is his dream (not mine!)to retire there. It is only 10 minutes away from town, so it’s not so bad, but the house needs added on to and redecorated…alot for us to do. (I thought maybe I’d hire Kim!)
So, vison this..we are living out his dream on the farm untill we are too old…meanwhile we will have a companion for Kendra working with her at home there, and if we have to go to a nursing home the lady stays there and takes care of Kendra and drives her wherever they need to go, with my older kids overseeing her care, as guardians. The caregiver gets paid what the state allows then and there will be a trust fund also set aside for extra’s. But Kendra get’s quite abit of Social Security too that needs to be spent down each month, for anything needed. So, this is our plan..with God willing, because we have seen some of these group homes and they are not the best and the special person has to work and Kendra hates that, as we tried it for several months a few years ago.
Sorry to go on and on, but thought it betterto do it now, rather than when we are starting a new week. Love and prayers to you all.
Glad to know your thoughts, JOyce. I’m praying you find a good way to use that allotted money so if will be a relief for you!
Thanks for sharing all your thoughts, Joyce. I hope this new woman helper works out really well and that she will provide you with the relief you need. Praying.
Please accept my apologies, bible study blog buddies…I got a bit behind this week.
6.
A. The sacrifices of the priests were a shadow of what was to come — but they could not do the most important thing. What was that, according to verse 11?
The sacrifices of the priests could not do the most important thing…take away sin.
B. Find a meaningful phrase or two in verse 12 and explain why you chose it.
“single sacrifice…good for all time”
Jesus completed the job of redemption once and for all. He accomplished what only He could do…sacrificing Himself, suffering brutality and death, leaving behind His divinity temporarily to take on human flesh…all to save us (me). My redemption through Jesus’ sacrifice is secure because Jesus finished the job completely.
C. What time is Christ waiting for, according to verse 13?
Jesus is waiting until His enemies are humbles and made a footstool under His feet.
D. What did Christ accomplish, according to verse 14?
By His sacrifice He made us forever perfect.
E. In what ways is the new covenant different than the old covenant? Find at least two.
Old: priests, multiple sacrifices (daily), animals used for sacrifice, written laws/rules, continued need for redemption
New: Jesus is the one and only high priest, one sacrifice for all time, Jesus was the sacrifice, laws in heart and mind of God’s people, fully redeemed through Jesus
7. Read Hebrews 10:19-23 and explain what this could mean for you on this day — how you might apply it.
Trust…because of Jesus I am made worthy…He has washed me clean of my sin…our God is a God of truth, mercy, and justice…trust.
8.
A. Our “meeting together” on this blog is a different kind of fellowship, but it has been fellowship indeed. What does this passage tell us to do and why?
The passage tells us to motivate and encourage one another for acts of love and good works.
B. What kind of responses from the other bloggers have stirred you up to love and to do good works?
The love and concern…there is freedom to express life’s woes, concerns, and celebrations, to receive insight, encouragement, and prayer. We are fellow sojourners in the world walking the same path to our heavenly home.
Thursday-Friday Listen to “The Sacrifice” by Keller.
9. What notes do you have from the sermon?
~Jesus saves through His sacrifice…through His blood.
~Without shedding of blood we would know the depth of our problem, the power of God’s solution, and the extent of transformation that is possible.
~In ancient times blood had both negative and positive symbolic value. Negative: blood = brokenness, guilt, stain; Positive: blood = life
~Conscience–self evaluation of how fit I am for the presence of God and other people…bad conscience means a profound self-consciousness that I could not survive close examination and would be rejected.
~”guilt” has to do with what I DID; “shame” has to do with what I AM.
~If everything is relative and there is no divine power by which I will be judged then there is no guilt…but, then nothing matters; life has no meaning. If we get rid of guilt the consequence is the significance of life is lost.
~Voluntary shedding of one’s blood = redemptive power of self-giving/self-sacrifice.
~(Bonhoeffer) All true (genuine) forgiveness is suffering.
If truly wronged, there is an indelible sense of debt/injustice that cannot be shrugged off…either we make the perpetrator pay or we forgive. If we demand payment by the perpetrator, the evil passes into us (me) and we (I) become evil too…the only alternative is forgiveness.
~If the hard work of forgiving is done, then (and only after) is there the possibility of the opportunity to confront the person not for vengeance-sake but for his/her sake.
~When a wrong is committed someone ALWAYS suffers…how much more with God whose understanding of justice is perfect and sees us destroying each other and His creation.
~Jesus didn’t come to inflict more violence in the world but to absorb it without paying it back so He could destroy the power of evil…He paid the price for my sin.
~The blood of Jesus transforms me; He writes His love on my heart.
~Good works, emulating Jesus, animal sacrifice will not work to remove the stain of sine…the only way is to know that Jesus endured the cross for MY sake…my sin has been dealt with so I can stand in the presence of God by Jesus’ sacrifice/love…at infinite cost Jesus provided me a new standing.
~Good deeds done out of fear and for self are dead works…because of Jesus, love and good deed are not something I HAVE to do, but what I WANT to do to please the one that died not to lose me.
10. What was the point of Keller’s story of Billy Graham at Cambridge? What did you think of that?
Saturday
I believe there are two points in of Keller’s story of Billy Graham…
Billy prepared what “he” thought was expected by the folks at Cambridge; he was fearful of not being enough in “their” eyes. When Billy followed this train of thought the first few evening, those nights were uneventful. When Billy decided to give the Cambridge folks the message in his heart provided by God, there were many (400) that responded.
~How often do I concern myself with others’ expectations…convicting.
The blood sacrifice of Jesus is offensive…the brutality sickening, but it is my sin that put Jesus on that cross. He took my punishment; He paid my debt…His blood is on my hands and it makes me clean. Praise God and thank YOU, Jesus!
11. What is your take-a-way and why?
“at infinite cost Jesus provided me a new standing”
“When a wrong is committed someone ALWAYS suffers…how much more with God whose understanding of justice is perfect and sees us destroying each other and His creation.”
I am so incredibly thankful for the life that Jesus provides me. I am so thankful that He is working in my heart and drawing me ever closer. I am SO grateful that the Lord loves me…really mind boggling, isn’t it?
Nanci–thank you for posting your great notes! oh how it helped me to read and remember (amazing how quickly I forget what I have heard).
Love what you said here–~”Good deeds done out of fear and for self are dead works…because of Jesus, love and good deed are not something I HAVE to do, but what I WANT to do to please the one that died not to lose me.”
And your take-away “When a wrong is committed someone ALWAYS suffers…how much more with God whose understanding of justice is perfect and sees us destroying each other and His creation.”
I’m really glad you’re here Nanci-you bring such fresh insight and depth
Thanks Elizabeth!