WELCOME TO ALL OUR NEWCOMERS! WE ARE GLAD TO HAVE YOU!
PSALM 1 BEGINS AS DOES THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT, PROMISING BLESSEDNESS
TO WHOM?
TO THE ONE WHO DELIGHTS IN THE LORD
FOR DELIGHTING IN THE LAW OF THE LORD,
IS DELIGHTING IN JESUS,
FOR HE IS THE LAW, HE IS THE WORD.
AS YOU DELIGHT IN HIM, YOU CAN KNOW INEXTINGUISHABLE JOY,
LIKE A TREE SOAKING UP SUNSHINE,
AND PUTTING ITS ROOTS INTO THE LIVING WATER
THE LIVING WATER THAT IS JESUS
If you have just joined us, welcome! You are not too late, for this week and next we will look carefully at the opening two psalms, which form the basis of all the other psalms. Just click on the getting started to the right.
There are so many newcomers — which is wonderful — and I don’t want to have any of you forgotten. I skim all comments but am also in process of assigning mentors (women who are grounded, have been with us a long time, and are regular) to each of you — just for a little extra care and prayer! Right now it is Elizabeth, Rebecca, Susan, and Nanci — you’ll be able to figure out who is yours fairly quickly. We have many women who could be mentors, and may be calling upon them too if we keep growing! Then we have wonderful prayer warriors like Joyce!
The days below are guidelines — but if you can get ahead, do. The sermon is golden and I so want you to get to it.
A paradigm changing book is Tim Keller’s Prodigal God where he awakens us to how much we might, without realizing it, be living a religious life instead of a gospel-centered life. He contrasts the way of the religious man (like the older son in the story of the prodigal sons) with the believer (like the repentant younger son in the same story.) Who becomes the happy son? No doubt about it, it is the son who repents and falls before the Father, and cherishes being close to the Father.
Last week Mike Reeves pointed out that you could misinterpret Psalm 1 to say “Blessed are the Bible readers.” While there is truth in that, we also know many Bible readers who are not happy, but instead are very much like the Pharisees who certainly knew their Bibles but were forever MURMURING. 
This is is why we must find Christ in the psalms so that our hearts are melted. We must be seeking Christ and not simply knowledge so that we might impress others.
What makes a person fundamentally happy? Tim Keller will address that in the free mp-3 you will hear on Psalm 1 this week. It is golden and you must hear it.
One of Keller’s first points is that happiness is possible, but it isn’t in circumstances. Instead, our roots need to go deep into the living water so that even in a drought we will thrive. Every morning endeavor to make your soul happy in the Lord through His Word, through experiencing Christ through His kisses. In The Song of Songs she asks the King to kiss her with the kisses of his mouth. This is intimacy. As Ellen Davis points out, it is like when God spoke to Moses “mouth to mouth.” (Numbers 12:8) In part, a kiss is when the Word leaps out at you, and quickens you. Then linger, and allow yourself to be kissed.
The Shulammite said his kisses were better than wine, echoing Psalm 4:7: “You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and wine abound.” She wanted, not his gifts, but him.
Let us pray each day for His kisses, His kisses sweeter than wine. Let us pray to experience Him.
The folk song Kisses Sweeter Than Wine has origins in 19th century Ireland, but I think its inspiration might possibly go even further back, to the Song of Songs, to Psalms, where we learn that it is His kisses that are sweeter than wine. This is what put joy in our hearts.
We will consider what these kisses consist of this week — but just for fun, watch this, and see if you can see what sustained this man, despite all the trouble and strife of life. What parallel might there be for us with the Lord?
Sunday Icebreakers
1. What stood out to you from the above and why?
2. Can you think of a recent time when you were “kissed” through the Word? Or a time recently when He put more joy in your heart than the world has when their grain and wine abound?
Monday – Wednesday: Bible Study and Prayer
I laughed with joy as several of you asked me, even e-mailed me, about last’s week lesson. I said that “Basil, Bonhoeffer, and Bono all prayed the psalms.” BONO? THE U-2 GUY?
YES! I LOVE BONO — NOT HIS MUSIC (too loud!) BUT HIS HEART, HIS WALK, HIS FUNDAMENTAL JOY BECAUSE HE IS LIVING OUT THE PSALMS HE PRAYS, THE WORD HE PRAYS. IF YOU WANT TO SEE HIS HEART, READ WHAT HE SHARED AT THE NATIONAL PRAYER BREAKFAST: LINK
Kisses Sweeter Than Wine
3. Meditate on Song of Songs 1:2 and use it as a springboard for prayer, asking God to kiss you in your study today.
4. Overview question: In both Psalms 1 and 2, there is a contrast between the righteous and the wicked. Psalm 1 deals more with the individual, and Psalm 2 with nations. Read them and see if you can see who is happy and who is not — and why.
5. Using your answer to question 4, turn it into a prayer — first for yourself, then for someone you care about, and then for the leaders of your country — whether that is the U. S., Canada, or another.
6. One kind of “kiss” is the gospel kiss. The son who received it in the story of the prodigal sons was the younger son. Read Luke 15:18-20 and describe:
- The attitude of the younger son
- The kiss of the Father
7. Read Psalm 2:12 and describe how we should respond to this gospel kiss and why.
All gospel duty is summed up in kissing the Son.
Matthew Henry
There is a similar theme between Psalm 1 and 2. I was quickened when Keller said in his sermon that what trumps our happiness is that we disobey because we think we know a better way to be happy. In Psalm 2, they need a King, but then they don’t want to kiss the King, to obey the King, because they think that is a “yoke” when it is really freedom.
8. The gospel kiss isn’t just for entering into Christianity, but for every day, to walk in repentance. As soon as you are aware of stepping out of the light, run to the Father in repentance. Confess here (you don’t have to write it down unless you choose) and ask Him for forgiveness and a change of heart.
9. Meditate on Psalm 1:1.
A. How can you recognize the “counsel” of the wicked? Where do you hear it?
B. Pray about the above.
C. In what ways does your behavior tend to be like the behavior of those who do not know God?
D. Pray about the above.
E. Keller says “sitting in the seat” asks the question: “To whom do you belong?” Throughout the day, this is a healthy question to ask when making choices. Pray about this for yourself and for someone the Lord leads you to pray for.
Thursday-Friday Listen, Reflect, and Pray over Keller’s Sermon:
10. Listen to this free sermon (download it so it doesn’t skip: LINK), and share your notes (If you cannot sit and listen but must listen while driving or working, then share what you remember.)
11. Reflections and prayer:
A. Happiness is possible – thank God for that — that He wants us to be blessed.
B. Happiness is not based on circumstances but on delighting in the Lord. Reflect on that and then pray about it.
C. Happiness is a by-product and we trump happiness when we seek it instead of the Lord. Reflect on that and then pray about it.
D. Happiness is a choice, according to this psalm. Reflect on that and pray about it.
Saturday
12. Based on this lesson, if you are not a basically fundamentally happy person, why not?
13. What is your take-a-way and why?
536 comments
“The counsel of the wicked tells me not to trust God. It tells me that what is most important are my own needs and wants, and my own happiness. . . . I mostly hear it in my own mind—stirring from my own sinful heart. But it gets reinforced by the world, cultural views, the media—but the more I know His Word, the more I recognize bad counsel, the quicker I am to turn away. . . . You gave Your life to claim me Your own, to clothe me in righteousness. The fight is over, the battle won, it is finished. Forgive me for forgetting what You have done. May the Gospel become such a part of my thoughts, my life, my reactions—that it is like breathing for me—that in my daily living I would never forget what You have accomplished.”
Thank-you, Elizabeth, for sharing the above. I have been doing the study every morning this week and writing in my journal. Your comments and prayer truly expressed the cry of my heart.
Sharmon–thank you for your encouragement to me–a kiss from Him for me today! Thankful you are here with us.
Also loved Elizabeth’s notes on Keller’s sermon, and copied them to save them! Thank you, Elizabeth. Such important daily and moment by moment reminders of the practical how-to’s for “taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ.”
“When God Ran” — almost moved me to tears to see Jesus so willing to take on the suffering for me, and all sinners like me who will turn to Him in repentance. Powerful reminder that Jesus is always there, waiting for communion with me, if only I will turn to Him.
Been Gospel-kissed more than twice this morning!
Pictures speak to me and Dee’s picture of the Father and son touched my heart.
In the 80’s, I read a book by, Kenneth E. Bailey, that painted a picture for me of the Father’s warm, affectionate loving way he welcomed his son back home and went how he went out to the angry older the same way. I read the book numerous times. The image he painted of God the Father was nothing like the image in my mind of God the Father.
I’d go back and read the story in Luke 15 and then read his book again. Slowly but surely the idol god I had built up in my mind began to crumble and I began to see God the Father—- why He’s always been warm, affectionate, and full of lovingkindness.
The image in my mind in the early 80’s of God the Father, was a god who wasn’t ever warm, never affectionate and only loved me if I could preform perfectly enough him. And sitting in this god’s lap, why that was just unthinkable, why would I want to.
I realized as I looked again at the picture in Luke 15, it is the true picture of a prodigal God.
Yes the younger son was a squanderer. Lived recklessly and wasted his Father’s inheritance.
But wasn’t it extravagant for the Father to give his sons so much freedom?
Wasn’t it extravagant for the Father to run into the street toward his immature son who recklessly wasted the father’s inheritance?
Wasn’t it extravagant to throw such a lavish party for this kind of son?
“But the elder brother was angry with deep-seated wrath and resolved not to go in.” Then his father came out and began to plead with him. . . Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours.”
Wasn’t it extravagant for the Father to go out to the angry older brother also?
Now I see God the Father, running to meet us no matter what, saying, “all that is mine is yours”.
“When God Ran” is a picture of our extravagant Father.
I know he’s the best Father in the world and I love sitting on his lap.
Cindy–this is beautiful. You have a gift with words, love your thoughts
This is a really descriptive, beautiful post, Cindy…and the book by Bailey and how it helped you to see the Father as He really is – thank you for sharing.
Loved your comments Cindy!
I love all your ‘extravagant’ points, so beautiful and such a wonderful image of God.
Jean–so glad you enjoyed “When God Ran” –it brings me to tears too! Love this–“Jesus is always there, waiting for communion with me, if only I will turn to Him.”
My name is Erika. This is actually the first time I’ve ever participated in an on-line study where I’ve commented, so I am a bit unsure of how to share and what to share! That being said, I am truly excited to be able to study the Psalms. I just listened to the Tim Keller sermon and took notes the entire time. It’s definitely full of great Truths that I need to pray over and let sink deep into my soul. I especially loved the reminder to “play the Gospel” over and over in my life and learn to sing the Gospel throughout the day. Oh, how I long for that… want it, need it, desire it. I am praying that while I lean deeper in to Jesus, he would show me the things in my life that I tend to give my heart to — the good things that I turn into ultimate things — so that I can set those down and run back to God. I want him to be my Ultimate, all the time.
Erica,
I want to encourage you to share however it feels right for you. I have been part of this study for over a year but have been on and off depending on what is going on in my life. I always get something out of the readings even if it is a period in my life where I cannot dig deeper. Dee and the ladies here are awesome! and encourage us however we express ourselves…whether specific to a question or more generalized. Also, there are awesome prayer warriors here as well. WELCOME
Erika R.–so glad you are here, and I agree with Sarahsal–there is no right or wrong way to share, just however you feel led. Glad you’re studying the Psalms with us!
Hi Erika…welcome! I encourage you to jump on in…there is no “right” or “wrong” way here…share, as Elizabeth said, as you feel led to…the things that God impresses on your heart as you do the study…if you have needs that we can pray for…
Welcome, Erika!
Renee, I miss your pretty face!!
Welcome Erika! You done wonderful the first time!
Great start, Erika!
So today is 2 years since I met our little man!!! His first bday as our official adopted son! He is 5 today! He has grown so much!!! Please pray for his birthmom. I know this must be a hard time though she did say that she was so thankful for us and appreciated us! Only God can work like that in hearts of mothers.
9. Meditate on Psalm 1:1.
A. How can you recognize the “counsel” of the wicked? Where do you hear it? All over! This world is so not of God and His ways. TV, News, Billboards, sitting at the park, at the mall, the grocery store magazines that attack your senses!!!
B. Pray about the above. Oh I do almost constantly!!!! As I see it I pray a guard over our eyes and minds…And those who will come upon it next. Conviction for those who print it, that they will see the One true God.
C. In what ways does your behavior tend to be like the behavior of those who do not know God? When I want to control things and I am a baby about it.I can be fierce especially when it comes to my children and attacks on them.
D. Pray about the above. Lord, help me follow in your ways alone. Help me trust Christ in all things and His death and resurrection for us. He bore all things for us.
E. Keller says “sitting in the seat” asks the question: “To whom do you belong?” Throughout the day, this is a healthy question to ask when making choices. Pray about this for yourself and for someone the Lord leads you to pray for. Nice I like this…
Angela, celebrating with you and saying a prayer for the birthmom!
Angela–so exciting! It doesn’t seem that long ago that we joined in prayer here for God’s will in little man’s life. I love how creatively He build families 😉 Happy Birthday Little Man!
Wow Angela – it doesn’t seem like it was a whole two years ago…how time flies! I hope you all had a special day of celebration with Little Man on his birthday!
Happy birthday to Little Man. He is such a cutie and so blessed to have you as his mommy.
Angela, So exciting — praying for you, him, and his birthmom
Renee – what happened to you:))) I put my glasses on…I’m still not sure what this is a picture of…blue background…something in the water?!
I am curious too, Renee. What IS that in the water?
The Lord leads me to pray for you, Angela and your family! Happy Birthday little man!!
God certainly has worked in his birth mother’s heart. Wow. Will pray though!
I had to jump on here sisters after work-but quickly..I listened to the Keller sermon 3 times today while working and OH MY..MY FAVORITE ONE! You MUST listen to it if you can today or tomorrow.. I sense He is moving in it.. God came to me in this sermon at such a sweet time-I was so in need of Him and feeling parched-like keller said-the tree that is planted does goes through seasons..and HE came through this sermon with the Gospel again. :))) I hope to tell more in the morning when I can reflect some more.
Rebecca, I loved Keller’s sermon too…listened to it three times! How is your mom doing? Praying for her.
Wonderful about the sermon Rebecca. Can’t wait to get there!
4. Happy is the man who’s delight is in The Lord’s instruction, meditating on it day and night. He is fed and watered. He grows and bears much fruit and prospers in all that he does. The Lord watches over him. There is a lot of blessing here for this man but I think the real reason he is happy is that his delight is in The Lord.
The wicked are like chaff blown away in the wind. They will not survive the judgement or be in the community of the righteous. His way leads to ruin. The wicked want but they don’t have because they don’t want The Lord. To be dried up and blown away on the wind is quite a word picture. Sounds like death. How can he be happy with death creeping closer every day?
I scribbled and scribbled as I listened to Keller’s sermon. So full of wisdom. It affirmed what God has been teaching me my whole life. I am overwhelmed with thankfulness for God’s Hand in my life. Like everyone, I have had great triumphs and terrible tragedies; no one escapes. But these came earlier for me, and I made a choice to be a positive, happy person. One gem that I heard: “Happiness is a by-product of making something else a priority.” I try to always remember I am not living my life for anyone on this earth, I am living my life for God…He is the audience. And life is so full and rich when our focus is on HIM. We live in such a “me” culture always analyzing our mood and what we “need” to feel better. I feel sad for family and friends that I see living life for things of this earth.
Another gem that I loved: “delight in the Lord” Isn’t the word “delight” perfect to describe the feeling of the gospel kiss. Finally, “happiness is found in who you are” (a beloved child of God)
Finally, “happiness is found in who you are” (a beloved child of God)
Oh Sarahsal, that’s something we will carry with us on into eternity isn’t it? This was something I was able to forever settle in 1990. I found my identity in all the things I did, like being the best mom, being a good wife, being a bible teacher, being a pastor’s wife, worship leader, a prayer warrior, and trying to meet other people’s expectations of me and the list goes on.
I found my identity in all the things I did, but when that was all stripped away, by becoming totally burnt out in 1990, My Father came to me during the darkest time of my life when I was no longer able do and be all those things. At that time I experienced His lovingness in a way that I never experienced when I was trying to work so hard for Him.
It’s funny now as I look back, I thought I was a Mary but I was really a Martha. I did many things for the applause of people. Time has helped me see more clearly Jesus could have said the same thing to me as He did to Martha, “Cindy, Cindy you are worried and upset about many things.” His words to me were, “Cindy you are my child, my daughter and that will never change it will be the same in eternity too.”
“happiness is found in who you are” (a beloved child of God)— Your statement brought back that memory to me tonight, that so profoundly impacted my life back in 1990.
Thanks for sharing so personally, Cindy…you have so much wisdom that we can all glean from! It is so easy to fall into the trap of finding our identity in the things we “do”…then when they are taken away from us or our roles change, we find ourselves in very unfamiliar waters. It’s neat how God spoke to you and clearly reminded you of your true identity-His child, His daughter.
Cindy-OH I LOVE THIS..”I found my identity in all the things I did, but when that was all stripped away, by becoming totally burnt out in 1990, My Father came to me during the darkest time of my life when I was no longer able do and be all those things. At that time I experienced His lovingness in a way that I never experienced when I was trying to work so hard for Him.”
Loved your Gems Sarahsal. We’ve all been blessed to have you here!
Sarahasal, “I try to always remember I am not living my life for anyone on this earth, I am living my life for God…He is the audience.” -I love how you ‘brought out’ that we need to remind ourselves of the Gospel daily and pound it in deeper.
“I try to always remember I am not living my life for anyone on this earth, I am living my life for God…He is the audience. And life is so full and rich when our focus is on HIM. We live in such a “me” culture always analyzing our mood and what we “need” to feel better.”
You hit “the nail on the head,” Sarahsal…love the living for an audience of One.
9. Meditate on Psalm 1:1.
A. How can you recognize the “counsel” of the wicked? Where do you hear it?
The counsel of the wicked tells me to focus on myself, my fulfillment. It tells me that “I deserve it.” It tells me that “if it feels good then it must be right.” Wicked counsel tries to teach me to hate certain groups of people, and tells me that I am superior to them. It tries to convince me that the majority is always right; so if everyone else is doing it, it must be okay. Where does it come from? — All forms of media: some TV advertising, also ads found in newspapers and magazines, in plots of some movies and TV shows.
B. Pray about the above.
Dear God, Please help me to stay focused on you and your ways. Do not let me wander due to evil counsel — may the red flags go up to warn me. May I not only have the wisdom to identify wicked counsel, but may I also have the courage of my convictions so that I turn away from it and run to you. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.
C. In what ways does your behavior tend to be like the behavior of those who do not know God?
I can be selfish, and resentful even though I know I am called to live the servant-life.
D. Pray about the above.
Dear God, Please forgive me when I fail to live the life modeled by my Savior and Messiah. May I more willingly take on servant tasks in a quiet and humble way. When I am serving, I am happiest, and I know that; but when I fall into spells where I am overly concerned with getting what is mine and when the pleasures of the world beckon me, I can forget where true joy in life comes from. Keep me on the straight and narrow, Lord. Please guide me and nudge me, and never give up on me. I pray it all in Jesus name. Amen.
E. Keller says “sitting in the seat” asks the question: “To whom do you belong?” Throughout the day, this is a healthy question to ask when making choices. Pray about this for yourself and for someone the Lord leads you to pray for.
Oh, Lord, I try to be so many things to so many people, and I end up not knowing who I truly am. I am a spouse, a mother, a neighbor, a friend, a church leader, a sorority member, while playing out a myriad of other roles. Help me to put my full trust in you and to sink my roots into your word, and please help me to remember at all times that I belong to you first and foremost. I want there to be no doubt that my identity is tied to Yours!
Lord, I would also pray for my daughter and her fiance. May my daughter remember her true identity and be able to lead her fiance into a closer relationship with you. May she find the courage to speak up and insist that they attend church together. It is so hard on them living apart in different states and their visiting time together is always too short, but may they find a way to include worshipping you in each of their weekends together. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.
Oh Deanna, I pray your prayers for you and for all of us…may he never ” quit guiding, nudges or give up on us”.I will pray for your daughter and her fiance…that has to be very difficult…so far apart.
“It tries to convince me that the majority is always right; so if everyone else is doing it, it must be okay”
so true. We even seek that in counsel – friends to assure us we are in the right even if the Holy Spirit is pricking us to the contrary.
Halleluiah, I managed to make my Gravatar!!!!
Sarasal,
Good for you!!
YAY!!!! Now you can change whenever you want.
Great to see your face, Sarahsal.
Always good to see faces of Sisters!
4. Overview question: In both Psalms 1 and 2, there is a contrast between the righteous and the wicked. Psalm 1 deals more with the individual, and Psalm 2 with nations. Read them and see if you can see who is happy and who is not — and why. – In Psalm 1 the happy are the ones that delight themselves in The Lord and His ways. They continue to flourish by being watered with His Word. The unhappy are the wicked who have lives that lead to destruction and The Lord does not notice them. In Psalm 2 the nation that follows The Lord will inherit other nations and their blessings will be to the end of the earth. The nations that go against Gods laws will only be in destruction.
5. Using your answer to question 4, turn it into a prayer — first for yourself, then for someone you care about, and then for the leaders of your country — whether that is the U. S., Canada, or another. – Lord I pray that you help me be happy with who you are and what you do for me. Help me to continue to grow in your word so my life is only glory to your name. I lift up Wendy Lord to you and ask that you help her with the sadness that she has, help her Lord to feel your presence so she leads a life of blessing and not destruction. Lord pry the heart of our President and other leaders Lord. Help them to see that the way they are going is just leading this country into destruction. Help us Lord to stand up for you and to not let Christianity die. In Jesus name I pray Amen.
6. One kind of “kiss” is the gospel kiss. The son who received it in the story of the prodigal sons was the younger son. Read Luke 15:18-20 and describe:
The attitude of the younger son – He was very sorry for what he had done and was willing to live as one of his slaves just to be able to come back. He didn’t care as long as he was home.
The kiss of the Father – Because the father was a godly man, the kiss from his father was like a kiss from God saying I forgive you child and have heard your cries to repent. I will never forsake you.
7. Read Psalm 2:12 and describe how we should respond to this gospel kiss and why. – We need to take it as a warning that God is not going to be happy if we do things are way and without him. He is the way we need to be going and following his ways. If we don’t our lives will be nothing but destruction.
9. Meditate on Psalm 1:1.
A. How can you recognize the “counsel” of the wicked? Where do you hear it? – I believe the “counsel” is everywhere. It is in our White House, our schools, our churches and even our friends at times. Where ever there is discontentment and gossiping, or negativity. Places where Christians are becoming the minority and our rights or concerns don’t matter. Friends that may agree with you just because instead of correcting you in love and holding you accountable. It’s in my own heart and mind when I let all of these things penetrate and take over my heart, soul and mind. I need to walk away and turn it all off.
B. Pray about the above. – Lord help me to fight the counsel of the wicked. Help me not be afraid or worried when it looks like you are being taken out of everything. Help me to feel and see your presence and to know this is your plan. That you will prevail at the end of it all and I have no worries. Help me to stand for what is right and not be one of the wicked. In Jesus name I pray AMEN.
C. In what ways does your behavior tend to be like the behavior of those who do not know God? – When I fall prey to all the negativity and grumbling I’m just as wicked as them. When I join in and go along with them my life is not reflecting the grace of God.
D. Pray about the above. – Lord please please help me to not be wicked. I want to be a good example of what a life of knowing you can bring to someone but when I mumble or complain or groan, there is nothing that leads anyone back to you. Take all of that from me Lord, and help me putty in your hand where you can mold me to what and who I’m supposed to be. Heal up the cracks I have Lord so nothing will be able to enter in to my heart soul and mind. In Jesus name I pray. AMEN..
Julie, love your prayers from the heart…I am convicted, too, about falling prey to negativity and grumbling (sometimes I’m the one who gets it started).
AMEN Julie…I join you in prayer. Did I miss someone…Wendy? How can I pray for her? Because you have all boys, right? How is Kyle and his wife and 1 yr. old? (Logan?)
Joyce, thanks for the prayers. No you didn’t miss someone, Wendy is a friend from work that is struggling since her mom pasted away. Yes, I do have all boys. I have 2 and Joe my husband has 3 and now we have three grandsons (1 I’ve never met) and 1 due in May. Logan just turned 1 on the 8 and getting big, Kyle and his wife are not good and will most likely be divorced soon. She has left again and is not being very nice or pleasant at the moment. Will sometimes even say Kyle can have Logan and than changer her mind. Kyle is very frustrated and a bundle of nerves waiting to explode. Please pray hard for him. I’m very worried about him and I pray that he does not do something that would be bad.
I have been away a bit and notice there are a lot of new ladies here. I just want to say welcome and I know you will enjoy being here. The ladies and Dee are such a blessing to me and we can learn from each other. So Welcome again glad to have you all.
Ladies,
I have been busy but I was able to read up to the story of the prodigal son. I really love this story. The symbolism is great. I actually did this with my sister over Skype. I wanted to share that she recited the prayer of salvation today. My heart is rejoicing. I am so happy and can’t wait to see how God is going to use her. I wanted to share this very important and beautiful information with all of you. I will be praying for everyone here. With more time, I will be able to read all the comments. God bless everyone.
Karen Valdez, praise the Lord about your sister.
Karen, that’s so wonderful about your sister! The angels in heaven are rejoicing!!
What wonderful news, Karen — I rejoice — and know angels are as well!
Karen, that is the very best news possible! I rejoice with you about your sister!
Karen that is such great news. Nothing more special than when a relative or anyone for that matter finally sees the Light!
Thank you for sharing this story. As a parent myself, I understand the story of the father and the son. It is wonderful to understand unconditional love and acceptance of our father towards us as we do the same with our own children.
Julie,
Amen, I agree with your prayer Julie. Only He can change us from the inside out. Mold us and make us, do it Lord— We don’t want to get off the potters wheel until Christ is formed in us.
1. What stood out to you from the above and why?
The painting of the tree, so beautiful that I could stare at it all day. I have a love for trees as well. I recently had the pleasure with all my Dutch neighborhood ladies in partaking in a mosaic class this past week. I did a mosaic of a tree….and have fallen in love with mosaic. A new pursuit of mine.
It’s been a while since I have posted here, and so glad to be back. Was a very busy holiday season around our house. Not festivities as much as my husbands job. Now the kids are back in school and things have slowed down a bit. I hope to get back in here. I so need and love this study with you all.
2. Can you think of a recent time when you were “kissed” through the Word? Or a time recently when He put more joy in your heart than the world has when their grain and wine abound? There have been many times I have been kissed by the Word, and it’s through those times that I find much joy and just excitement knowing God just spoke to me through His word..I get so excited Im like a giddy school girl. I usually end up telling my husband in all giddiness and my husband just smiles and says that’s nice….lol. I find joy and peace when God speaks to me in the Word.
How have you been feeling Staci? Are you back in the states? Mosaic is a beautiful art…wish I could see your tree!
Hi Joyce, no we are still in the Netherlands. We move to Germany in June. We love living in Europe. I have not finished my tree yet, we will be going back on Wed. to finish hopefully. I will post a picture once I do. Im not sure its all that great, being my first time, but everyone told me I have a talent for it…lol. I just really love art even if I dont. Thanks for asking. 🙂
On another note, Im finally over my horrible bout with bronchitis and started my therapy on my back yesterday…thank God! Things are looking up and starting back to eating healthier as well. ON the plus side, the therapist said exercise is my friend and recommends I do keep exercising, just not the workouts like Insanity that I have done in the past…I would love for my back to stop hurting and a miracle would be for her to say I can go back to snowboarding…but Im not pushing it. 😉
That is wonderful Staci!
Staci, missed you..I love that you get excited and giddy like a school girl when God speaks to you in His Word. 🙂
Thanks Rebecca, look forward to always reading your post. I see the love you have for God and its very uplifting. 🙂
3. Meditate on Song of Songs 1:2 and use it as a springboard for prayer, asking God to kiss you in your study today.
Heavenly Father I thank you for your Word today, I thank you for how beautiful you orchestrate every day of my life, when I put aside my agenda, my idols and my ways. I ask you to just forgive me and shower me with your love, your peace and joy.May I hear your small still voice in the quiet of the day, in the sunrise, in the beauty around me, in my children and all that you have bestowed upon me. May I never take anything for granted and do your will. May I find joy in the simplicities of life and may you kiss me with Your Word today, for it is sweeter than an earthly joy. I love you Jesus, more than life, I can not fathom a day without You.
4. Overview question: In both Psalms 1 and 2, there is a contrast between the righteous and the wicked. Psalm 1 deals more with the individual, and Psalm 2 with nations. Read them and see if you can see who is happy and who is not — and why.
~In Psalm 1 the person who follows the Lord, not in religion, but in an actual personal relationship with the Lord. He does not find or seek out counsel of the wicked, or stand with sinners or sit in the seat of mockers(kind of reminds me of pharisees). But he delights in the law of the Lord, God’s ways and word. His life produces fruit being planted and grounded in God. The wicked are not at peace, and are not favored or sustained by God.
~Psalm 2, for some reason I thought I would be drawn to Psalm 1 more, since it’s dealing with the individual, but I am really drawn to Psalm 2. I find such excitement, hope and joy in ‘ He said to me, ” You are my Son, Today I have become your Father. Ask of me, and I will make the nations your inheritance, the ends of the earth your possession. You will rule them with an iron scepter; you will dash them to pieces like pottery.” ‘This just makes me feel so safe and secure in the Lord, he will watch over us, guide us and let no harm come to us as we go out and do the work he has called us to do, even IF nations arise and come against us. I especially like verse 4 The One enthroned in heaven laughs; the Lord scoffs at them. That to me speaks volumes, many nations war against God, but it doesnt even phase Him, the creator, He just laughs at their ignorance and wicked ways, like it just rolls off His back. I hear ” Is nothing to big or impossible for God”…that was a kiss for me today right there. God doesnt even sweat the nations waring against Him… in fact He “laughs” at them. Even more so a reminder for us all to know how Big our God is that we serve and to know, even in trials and hard times….He is not worried or discouraged by ALL he sees going on in the earth. Something that I do find discouraging at times within myself with so much going on against so many Christians I know struggling in life right now. Thank you Father, for your Kiss today, I will not worry but surrender it all to you. You got this!
5. Using your answer to question 4, turn it into a prayer — first for yourself, then for someone you care about, and then for the leaders of your country — whether that is the U. S., Canada, or another.
~Dear Lord, help me to realize just how BIG you really are. To not let the worries of life and concerns to bombard me down. To always turn to you, run to you and let Your Word flood my heart and spirit with the Truth, peace and joy it brings. I also life up my friend Patty right now, she has some skin cancer issues and her health care has been dropped, you saw this coming before it even happened. You are not moved or worried with the ways of the world or this mess. IN fact you laugh at it. I pray You will make a way, where there seems to be no way. You look after Your own and do not let them fall. I pray for insurance to be restored or the money to come available for the treatments needed. Whatever way you choose Lord, I thank you now. I pray for our nations, and our leaders. Its seems we are in a wicked world, so much war, strife, confusion and lies coming forth, but once again You scoff and laugh at all this. You have all authority and power in Your hands. I pray for our nations to rise up against the evil and wicked ways of the world and I pray for our leaders to turn their hearts back to You, to hear Your voice and seek your counsel once again to bring back a Godly nation.
I ran across this today on Facebook When you pass thru the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the fames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord YOUR GOD. Isaiah 43:2 and 3a.
Staci, I’m so glad to see you back…you came to mind just the other day and I said a prayer for you…was hoping your back and overall health were okay!
Thanks Susan and I have thought of you as well and prayed, hope you are well friend. I think the therapy, stretches and core strengthening are really going to help my back. Im looking forward to getting some normalcy again.
Dee,
On your Bono take, which is funny, its my husband’s favorite band. He has seen them multiple times through out his life and we had the pleasure of seeing them in Milan, Italy. I cant say Im a huge fan, but I do appreciate some of his music and even more so his heart like you said. He does have a great heart towards humanity.
Appreciate that Staci. I have gotten so that knowing someone’s character, for good or for bad, influences how I hear her or his music.
This is me-for some reason it logged me in automatically under my ministry account email and was kind of messed up-so anyway.. 🙂
Am I fundamentally happy or circumstantially happy? That is the question.
Here is what stuck with me:
Fundamental happiness is stimulated by tragic circumstances. You don’t know what it is like to rejoice in the Lord unless you have suffered.
The tree because it is going through a season of dryness has to pull out of the bottom even more. It has to put it’s roots deeper down and draw even harder on it. You don’t know what it is like to rejoice in the lord unless you are suffering. There is something about the drought and about the fruitlessness of your life that makes you put your roots down into him in a way you didn’t before. You go to him and set your roots down and you don’t get relief from the pain or grief but you receive an overwhelming gushing forth of Glory and joy.
Happiness that the bible talks about is fundamental happiness not circumstantial happiness which is more like to frolick or tell jokes, be lighthearted or have fun-but a happiness that is stimulated by tragedy. Fundamental happiness is a Joy that is permanent and overwhelming and overlapping and stimulated by tragic circumstances. That is how you know if you have circumstantial happiness or fundamental happiness.
As I mentioned above-He came to me in this sermon through this as the North winds have been blowing in my life for quite some time in the same area it seems and this past month especially during Advent. I felt dry but in the struggle of this ongoing trial He is helping me to draw my roots deeper down into Him like I haven’t before-in His Word through my times alone with Him and through being with other believers around me, here on the blog and getting in His word with others at my church and Keller’s sermons. But OH I do not trust myself-that is another thing I have learned for I DO DO DO bend toward circumstantial happiness-and my focus can become hard on my circumstances..but He woos me to trust Him. I am starting to learn spiritually how glorious it is when my mouth is parched needing water and then drinking from Him..the uncertainty of these circumstances in my life and the pain is still there but He is sweet for He has upheld me with His hand..I think that is it-I am not driven to despair, I have downcast moments throughout the day-can be scared, worried and upset! But I am not “struck down” because He upholds me. It is also sweet to know Jesus cried a lot!
Rebecca this is so profound. I’m so sorry for your difficulties but you have taught me much about trial just in what you said here. Is this your response to the sermon?
Anne, Oh wow-I did forget to put down that this is a response to Keller’s sermon, but yes this is my response. Keller’s thoughts are in the first part and my response is the last paragraph. 🙂
9. Meditate on Psalm 1:1
A. How can you recognize the “counsel” of the wicked? The counsels of the wicked usually focusses on self. Wicked counsel usually glorifies something other than Christ or Biblical principles. Scripture is so important when advising friends or confronting sin. Where do you hear it? Everywhere. Even in church, sometimes from the pulpit, more often from those in the congregation. We have become so self centered and society urges us that self-center is healthy and mature…..how skewed is our thinking.
B. Pray about the above. Father God, lead our thoughts, that we may be centered on Christ. May we respect the path you have for others and only give scriptural counsel to those that seek counsel, otherwise let us be sensitive to Your Spirit when speaking, allowing only the words you would have us say escape our mouth. Give us restraint and pause to be patient in hearing your voice. Let us be comfortable in the uncomfort of silence or unpopularity in order that we avoid uncomfort in doing wrong.
C. In what ways does your behavior tend to be like the behavior of those who do not know God? I think I know what the right thing to do is based off of my gut or by what my life/convictions look like. There are definite spiritual/Biblical truths that are concrete and definite times the Spirit leads us to speak up or into someone’s life and Spirit flags of discernment. But there are also times when God has a different path for individuals in order that they may truly see His guidance in a way that will speak deepest to that person. Sometimes, too, God allows people to walk through fire, this should not bring judgement from me but loving support to get to God on the other side. I also tend to spout off on soapboxes….not always righteous anger. =/
D. Pray about the above. God, give me awareness of what is approaching my mouth BEFORE it escapes! Give me empathy and wisdom to react in Your way to events, circumstances and confidences given to me. May my world view be through the gospel and not through myself or my assumed intelligence. Thank you! That this world is in Your hands and that nothing happens without your knowledge or the potential for beauty in Christ.
E. Keller says “sitting in the seat” asks the question: “To whom do you belong?” Throughout the day, this is a healthy question to ask when making choices. Pray about this for yourself and for someone the Lord leads you to pray for. Give me pause in reacting, Lord. Continue to clothe me with Christ that my reactions would be Christ and not me. Let Your love, freely given, pour through me onto others, let Your grace, so freely given, flow through me and onto others. Chisel self from my heart, that Christ would fully be my core and my confidence. I am surprised by the name you put on my heart God, but bless this individual with perspective, prepare her heart to see fully, give her an opportunity to choose You, and only You. May she turn from self and fully embrace the love and joy You have offered. Let her realize Your better way. Amen.
Jill–these words brought tears for me–“Give me pause in reacting, Lord. Continue to clothe me with Christ that my reactions would be Christ and not me. Let Your love, freely given, pour through me onto others, let Your grace, so freely given, flow through me and onto others. Chisel self from my heart, that Christ would fully be my core and my confidence.” OH how that spoke right to my heart this morning, I have already “failed” to pause in my reaction today–I’m writing this down on a sticky note for the car!
Ok, that’s a dolphin in the pic. Originally, I picked it because it was kinda cute and I liked the color. And after I thought about it, I thought that it is about the same shape I am, and I do jump through a lot of hoops when I have to! Obviously it doesn’t work for a gravatar because it is hard to make out unless you already know what you are looking at. And also it is TOO BRIGHT! The last “thing” I want in a gravatar is to have my pic plastered online:) And the second to last thing is to have a gravatar that stands out so much. Now that I’ve accomplished my worst gravatar fears, I should be good to go!
Rebecca, loved what you posted earlier this morning. More comments later, after I jump through some hoops.
I’m still giggling 🙂 I like the bright color. My eyes are bad even with glasses so I didn’t have any trouble at all seeing your gravatar.
Renee, You so make me smile! 🙂 and Cindy, :))
Oh Renee…thanks for being so good natured about all the “heckling” over your pic!! I wanted to wait for you to say what it is – I thought it might be a seal…but I do miss seeing your face!
Renee, thank you for making me laugh today. But I am sorry you have to jump through a lot of hoops.
🙂
But here is what is interesting — I think seeing a person in reality after you get to know them a bit is so helpful. You are lovely, warm, sophisticated in your appearance and that makes your wry humor all the more fun. I really love real pix over others — each person is lovely, is in the image of God, and I prefer that. That is my bi 2 cents.
I don’t know if I have a problem or not.
When I write my posts sometimes I see the little “gray” thingy to the right and I’m able to click on it but other times it’s not showing (the “gray” thingy). I’m sure there is a proper name for “it” but I don’t know what it is 🙂 But I do remember Dee telling to click on it to log-in. I finally found it; sometimes it’s there and other times it’s hiding from me. Where does it go?
Anyway, does anyone else have this issue or is it a problem with my computer or browser? I’m stumped. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Another issue is when I read the comments in my email. My question is, does every comment show up in our emails when we click the “notify me of followup comments via e-mail” and “notify me of new posts by email”? Or will they only show up when we click on the little “gray” thingy on the right corner?
Cindy, I looked-up Kenneth Bailey – he’s lived in the Middle East and is therefore so familiar with their culture. May I ask the title of the book that impacted you?
Susan, the book is, “The Cross & the Prodigal: Luke 15 Through the Eyes of Middle Eastern Peasants”.
Sorry about the repeated posts.
I’ve read/have one or two of Bailey’s books. I REALLY appreciated his perspective. First “ran into” him when I listened to an interview of him on the Moody site (when I was surfing after listening to Dee!)
Ok, now back to work. I promise, I will post something “real” (as in Bible study) again here SOMETIME!
Cindy–once you are subscribed, you’ll get all emails, even if you don’t keep clicking the “notify”, as long as you are using the same email address regardless of device (phone or computer)
Elizabeth, good to know about the email thing. I think I was able to click the notify and kept getting emails that week, but the next week when I either “unclicked” it or didn’t click it at all, I didn’t get emails. Do you know if it works the same way now? At times, I can’t handle too many more emails in my regular email boxes, so will definitely open another account if it is permanent. Thanks!
Renee–you do have to click it each week, but not each post–just once you do, you stay subscribed but only for that week. Also, when you get the comments in your email, there is a link at the bottom of each one that says “manage subscriptions”—you can click it to be sure you are either subscribed or unsubscribed–and you can change it back and forth as many times as you need to–even daily! clear as mud? or did that help, I hope 🙂
Susan, the book is “The Cross & the Prodigal: Luke 15 Through the Eyes of Middle Eastern Peasants”.
Here’s some information about Kenneth Bailey.
I’m not sure Kris — has anyone gotten back to you with help? If you are meaning this study, I think you just go to my website if you have the internet.
Susan, the name of the book is, “The Cross & the Prodigal: Luke 15 Through the Eyes of Middle Eastern Peasants”.
This is just a 6 min clip I thought was so good, I wanted to share. Paul Tripp–Relational Conflict and Forgiveness
10. Listen to this free sermon (download it so it doesn’t skip: LINK), and share your notes (If you cannot sit and listen but must listen while driving or working, then share what you remember.)
Am I fundamentally and consistently a happy person? We haven’t made any progress in finding happiness. Our psychology books are all about the problem of happiness.
Psalm 1 is the gatekeeper for the entire Bible and especially for Psalms.
1. Happiness is possible. Almost all of us start out thinking happiness is natural, and that the people who aren’t happy are just screwed up. As we get older we realize life is not as easy as we thought. All great literature is tragic. Is life like Hamlet or like Much Ado about Nothing? We end up believing happiness is unachievable. If happiness is possible, why don’t more of us have it?
2. Real happiness as found in the Bible is fundamental. We try to find it in circumstances and externals — that is our first mistake.
The tree in Psalms is subject to seasons. however, it has been planted on the river bank. Happiness doesn’t consist in what happens to you but in who you are. The Bible tells us a Christian is not just someone religious, nice, etc., but is someone rooted in God. That is where you draw. The tree experiences affliction. It doesn’t always produce fruit, yet its leaf doesn’t wither. The tree, because it is going through dryness, puts its roots deeper and draws from the deep.
3. Happiness can never be found directly. It is always a biproduct of seeking something else. If you seek happiness you will receive neither happiness or righteoustess. However, if you seek righteousness, you will receive both. If your top priority is your happiness, you will never find it. If you try to “make this moment last forever,” you have already polluted it.
If people come to church to be made happy, they won’t be happy. If I say to the Lord, I will come to you and you owe me nothing, I will be happy even when things go wrong. But if I say I will come to you and you owe me everything, I will never experience happiness.
4. Happiness is something you choose. If you sit with a group then you belong to them. You let other things own you. There is a difference between trusting your spouse or making your spouse your trust.
What piper are you really dancing to? What allegiances are in your life. I have to turn away from things that would own me. Otherwise you are still sitting in the seat, but not in God’s lap. Christianity makes you happier and sadder at the same time. Now you feel the pain of the world.
Deanna,
Great sermon notes-so much Gold in Keller’s sermons and especially in this one! Is there anything that especially quickened you? I love to hear how God comes to you.
Yes, Rebecca, there was a part in which I felt God had a message for me, although Keller’s entire sermon was outstanding as usual! The part that struck me was:
Deanna,
Oh no-that isn’t a strange place to apply it-it is a real place in your life-wonderful how God opened your eyes to this..Kind of cool-I am memorizing 1 Peter 5:1-3 in leadership class which I really think speaks to your situation-and sister Oh the Gospel is so here..and I believe you are hearing him and responding:
Therefore, I exhort the elders among you, as your fellow elder and witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a partaker also of the glory that is to be revealed, shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not for sordid gain, but with eagerness; nor yet as lording it over those allotted to your charge, but proving to be examples to the flock.
Happy belated birthday to “little man,” Angela…thank you for sharing your joy.
Good to see you, Staci…I was away from the blog over the holidays and was beginning to wonder if I missed something when I hadn’t seen posts. Sorry to hear of your bout with bronchitis; glad it is behind you. Hopefully back therapy will provide you some relief in that area as well.
Rebecca, how is your Mom doing?…any improvement in her oxygen intake?…hope so.
Donna, how is your horse doing? I’m hoping (and praying) that the crisis has passed and all is well?
Rosem, you are in my prayers…please check in when you have a chance to let us know how you are doing with “kisses .”
Renee, miss seeing your lovely face…the dolphin picture is a nice aquamarine color.
Nice to see you, Sarahsal…:)
I’ve been kind of “hit and miss” with comments these past few days (busy work days and busy grandparenting evenings…not enough lunch time); I will get caught up either this evening or tomorrow. I hate to think what I might be missing out on…I may need to investigate the email approach.
I finished listening to Keller’s sermon this morning…I took lots of notes…oh so good! My notes are unnecessary and would be redundant to post since our Elizabeth did such a great job…:)
Thank you Nancy, I’m on the mend and doing well.
I just read the transcript from National Prayer Breakfast. Wow Wow Wow!!! I see why we love Bono!
This makes me happy. Same Spirit sees same thing.
9. A. How can you recognize the “counsel” of the wicked?
They counsel conformity to world values…e.g., greed, “me obsession,” judgment.
Where do you hear it?
All around me…it is quite prevalent in our culture.
B. Pray about the above.
Holy Lord, we are inundated with what the world values all around us. Only by taking refuge in You, Lord, can we turn from the ungodly influences that are so ready to ensnare, so sinister and destructive. Protect me from conforming to the standards and ungodly values of the world around me, please transform me into the likeness of my Lord Jesus. Amen.
C. In what ways does your behavior tend to be like the behavior of those who do not know God?
I have “enough,” yet yearn for “more than enough”…self-interest…idols of approval and/or affirmation.
D. Pray about the above.
Lord, how convicting…I have fallen to worldly values. … help me to be attentive to influences that lead me astray; grace me with strength to change. You are number one…no other gods should be before You…help me to repent of idolatrous ways. Help me to change, Lord. Amen.
Nanci, Thanks for this post. I’ve come back to it a couple times this evening, thinking about conformity at work, related to some decisions.
The gospel kiss isn’t just for entering into Christianity, but for every day, to walk in repentance. As soon as you are aware of stepping out of the light, run to the Father in repentance. Confess here (you don’t have to write it down unless you choose) and ask Him for forgiveness and a change of heart.
I startled myself with a new thought as I went back to the first verse in Luke to get the context of what Jesus was teaching.
I had an aha moment. Jesus said, “I have manifested Your Name I have revealed Your very Self, Your real Self to the people whom You have given Me out of the world”, John 17:6.
With the story of the prodigal son, Jesus made it clear, leaving no room for confusion or doubt what His Father was truly like. The ones who had eyes to see and ears to hear, got it.
Unlike the Pharisees who were always missing Jesus point; they were more concerned how Jesus could welcome sinners and how he could eat with them! How could He? Doesn’t He know how sinful they are?
I heard preachers preach and teach that God is Holy and can’t look on sin. Well Jesus shattered my understanding of what holiness is by the parable of the lost son.
The Pharisees had a distorted and warped understanding of who God the Father was too.
When I start grumbling and complaining how sinful the people are around me, it’s a wake-up call from the Holy Spirit that the Pharisee in me has showed up. I’m catching this attitude quicker these days and it makes me sad to think I would look down on someone who doesn’t know Jesus yet. Could it be the reason I keep bumping in to sinners?
I’m sure the crowd that day, probably looked at Jesus, then looked over at the Pharisees, thinking to themselves, which one looks and sounds more like God?
____________________
Forgive me Father when I behave like a Pharisee and look down on the those who don’t know you yet; cleanse me from this ungodly attitude and in it’s place let the fruit of the Spirit come forth in me.
Oh Father, you’ve called us to show forth the Father just like Jesus did; we acknowledge we can’t this do on our own, but only by your indwelling Holy Spirit. I pray this for my sisters too.
The Prodigal–by The Skit Guys; it’s a little over 7 minutes but well worth watching.
Cindy, Thanks for puttinf that on here by the Skit Guys. I enjoyed that one so much I listened to many of them!!
I’m glad you liked it Joyce.
“The Prodigal“ by the Skit Guys is the first one I ever heard.
I read on their site:
6. One kind of “kiss” is the gospel kiss. The son who received it in the story of the prodigal sons was the younger son. Read Luke 15:18-20 and describe:
The attitude of the younger son~ he realized that he had sinned and felt so unworthy of of his father’s love. He was at his lowest point in his life. Like a bum and beggar of the streets.
The kiss of the Father~what I didnt realize and it jumped out at me was this in verse 20 “So he got up and went to his father. BUT WHILE HE WAS STILL A LONG WAY OFF, HIS FATHER SAW HIM AND WAS FILLED WITH COMPASSION FOR HIM; HE RAN TO HIS SON, THREW HIS ARMS AROUND HIM AND KISSED HIM.”
His father did not care of the state of his son’s heart, he was filled with compassion towards his son, even in his sinful state. Even before his son apologized…isnt that like our Father in heaven and Jesus death on the cross for us all. A kiss of life, spiritually…the best kiss.
7. Read Psalm 2:12 and describe how we should respond to this gospel kiss and why.
We are to kiss the Son, embrace His love, take refuge in His love for us, its life to us. Dont be tempted to take His love for granted, His love is the true freedom we need and long for, whether we realize this or not.
9. Meditate on Psalm 1:1.
A. How can you recognize the “counsel” of the wicked? Where do you hear it?
This was a bit tricky, but counsel of the wicked can be from anywhere, even in church among ‘pharisee’ type Christians. Usually if God’s love is not spoken first, even with Christians, its meaningless and can become a counsel of the wicked.
1 Corinthians 13: 1-3 (the message version I thought was good on this scripture)
1 If I speak with human eloquence and angelic ecstasy but don’t love, I’m nothing but the creaking of a rusty gate.
2 If I speak God’s Word with power, revealing all his mysteries and making everything plain as day, and if I have faith that says to a mountain, “Jump,” and it jumps, but I don’t love, I’m nothing.
3-7 If I give everything I own to the poor and even go to the stake to be burned as a martyr, but I don’t love, I’ve gotten nowhere. So, no matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I’m bankrupt without love.
Love never gives up.Love cares more for others than for self.Love doesn’t want what it doesn’t have.Love doesn’t strut,Doesn’t have a swelled head,Doesn’t force itself on others,Isn’t always “me first,”Doesn’t fly off the handle,Doesn’t keep score of the sins of others,Doesn’t revel when others grovel,Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth,Puts up with anything,Trusts God always,Always looks for the best,Never looks back,
But keeps going to the end.
B. Pray about the above.
C. In what ways does your behavior tend to be like the behavior of those who do not know God?
I struggle to be more nonjudgemental at times. I can have the most compassion for the worst of people living on the streets etc…and find Im very judgmental towards the ‘pharisee’ Christians. I know that is wrong of me, but I think when a person has seen some non Christian things happen among Christians, you tend to become disgruntle and upset as to how Christians can act such a way and not see it? Or think they are OK? Again, Im being honest with you all as much as myself here. I do hear God saying to me, does He not love them any less or more than the lost…He does love them. Just pray is what i hear God saying and let God lead.
D. Pray about the above.
Dear Lord, help me where I fail with judging other Christians,even if I feel they are wrong or not right in their ways or actions, humble me and help me to pray for them just like the rest. I pray for compassion to replace my judgmental ways towards them and please forgive me where I fail miserably. Help me to have your love, joy and the right attitude in all situations and actions of my heart.
E. Keller says “sitting in the seat” asks the question: “To whom do you belong?” Throughout the day, this is a healthy question to ask when making choices. Pray about this for yourself and for someone the Lord leads you to pray for.
Really good insight on how to discern if the counsel of Christians is good or not —
I agree with Dee. So good, Jill — So often, love is missing; the Gospel is missing from Pharisee-types. You post helps me understand my gut-level, physical reaction. Sometimes I even agree with about the behavior (or whatever) “pharisee-types” might be promoting, but when love is missing, my immediate response is empathy for the person (or persons who do whatever behavior). It is usually easier for me to see the person behind the sin, than the person behind the pharisee. I waved the flag of legalism for too long. You’d think I’d have more empathy for Pharisees; part of my response may be based on fear rather than love for the pharisees.
Sorry, Staci!! I have been thinking about what you wrote about Pharisees and also about tree roots. We usually don’t see the roots of trees — and I became curious. I know we are told that we will know people by their fruits; but it also seems as if there is a lot we don’t know, especially during times when our lives feel fruitless.
Intriguing pics from a tree in a park in Greenville SC where the tree roots are exposed
I too understand where you are coming from ‘legalism’….was under that so much in my Christian walk. God has really showed me love is key. Just this morning read on Loving and Galations 5:14 The entire law is summed up in a single command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” If you keep on biting and devouring each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other. I know God has broken off a lot of ‘religious, legalism’ junk off of me. Thank God He is teaching me to walk in love and like you, I am learning to see the sin, and not the the person. Song of Songs really broke some things off of me and bringing back my first love with God…it does change ones love for the better towards others. 🙂 When you are in love with God it just spills out to others…its so genuine. I love that about God. 🙂
Love your honesty, Renee.
Yeah, me too. Lord, help me to NEVER wave it again.
Rebecca, so glad to hear that your mom is doing better and out of the hospital, albeit with oxygen tank. Does she have help at home so she can manage? I hope they get her COPD under control.
Diane and Rebecca – so glad to hear about Rebecca’s mom…I’d been watching for a post from Rebecca about her mom but haven’t been able to find it. Glad she is home and doing better.
So thankful — Rebecca, my heart goes out to you and to her. Will continue to pray.Laura-d, Update on your mom?
Listening and taking notes this morning through Keller’s sermon…a dim light bulb coming on in my head as I listened to this one part: for the first time, Keller has helped me to see the Gospel in Psalm 1. It is where he says:
“The Bible says a Christian is someone who has been planted and rooted into something besides him or herself. The Bible says we are made partakers of a divine nature…something has become part of us; we have been rooted into God. A Christian is not the chaff which has no root. A Christian is a tree; something has planted you in because trees cannot plant themselves. Something has come and planted you in and now there is a power, an outlook, an understanding that wasn’t there before, and that is where you draw your happiness from.”
Now I will never read Psalm 1 again without seeing the Gospel, the “tree planted“…now it seems so obvious, as in WHO planted that tree by the streams of water and made it so it’s leaf would not wither, and the contrast between that tree and the root-less chaff.
Really good to pull that out about Christ, Susan.
I realize that I am way behind and that we are on to a new lesson, Susan, but I love your insight into the fact that
Christ in you, the hope of glory.
Why am I not a happy? I struggle with being happy at times. When I do I realize I am focusing more on myself, pride and stubbornness.. I am teaching Sunday school and we are on the book of Job. Not many “happy chapters or reasons to be happy” Job suffered a lot, But when he looked at his past and how God had blessed him, with family, friends, wealth, good name, etc… He realizes how good life was. We have to go back to good memories and remember God’s mercies and grace. We can’t be happy rehashing our mistakes our bad times and failures. Like Job said.. I know that my Redeemer liveth. That is where our happiness is found in, it is found in who we are in Christ. Happiness is a choice, to look beyond our circumstances and focus on God…His love for us.. His acceptance of us just as we are and our focus on who God is.
“That is where our happiness is found in, it is found in who we are in Christ. Happiness is a choice, to look beyond our circumstances and focus on God…His love for us.. His acceptance of us just as we are and our focus on who God is.” Love this Rosem
“His acceptance of us just as we are and our focus on who God is.”
I agree, Rosem…this is truly where it is at. God’s love for us is incomprehensible…He loves not because of who or what we are, but because of who He is…amazing grace.
Yes, Rosem. So many of us “struggle with being happy at times.”As you say,
God so loved us that He sent His Son to rescue us, even if we can’t remember any good memories in our lives at the moment, if our present is bleak, and our future in this world is dismal. Christ is our source of hope – rescuer of our past, rescuer in our present and sure hope for the future.
10. Listen and share. Like others, I really appreciated what he had to say, but won’t share much because others have done a great job in summarizing (particularly Elizabeth, thank you). I did have one independent thought at the start of his sermon and that is – Christ did not sit in the seat of mockers, but he could have. He could have mocked me, it would have been justified, but he loved me instead. Other things that resonated with me:
He kept saying fundamentally AND consistent.
The hymn lyrics: “Peace, perfect peace in this world of sin? Peace, perfect peace Christ whispers within.”
Happiness does not “happen,” we cannot sit around and wait for it OR do our best to manipulate situations to create it. “Happiness does not come from controlling your circumstances but controlling you allegiance.”
It is ok to have a heavy heart – the tree feels affliction.
11.Reflections and prayer:
A. Happiness is possible – thank God for that — that He wants us to be blessed. God, thank you! Thank you that you planted me beside Your water and that You fill my heart. Thank you that you still my heart, You ground it in Your law and remind me to drink deep, in feast and famine. And I’m forever thankful….You do bless me, immeasurably, and I am always humbled by Your kindness.
B. Happiness is not based on circumstances but on delighting in the Lord. Reflect on that and then pray about it. Thank You, that you never change, thank you that you draw me in and change me. Thank you for revealing Your Word to us that we may know you more and press in to a God painted by Your own words. Lord, may my face always reflect the deep joy that You have bestowed on me, may I never waiver in the face of difficulty, either internal or external. Speak to my soul, convict my thoughts to not listen to the rebuff from the anxiety of my soul but to delight in You.
C. Happiness is a by-product and we trump happiness when we seek it instead of the Lord. Reflect on that and then pray about it. God, how sweet is the freedom that comes from turning to You, and away from all else. How torturous to constantly run after happy, the allusive idea that I will “arrive” and be done, the lie that I deserve to rest and indulge, it doesn’t happen, won’t happen, shouldn’t happen! …. And so I stop, planted by the river and I revel in the journey that is merely going up in growth as my leaves reach heavenward and my roots grow into Your law…and I delight….Father, You are all. Praise You for this ….I love You, Lord, I worship You.
D. Happiness is a choice, according to this psalm. Reflect on that and pray about it. I choose to seek You, Lord, knowing that I deserve nothing, You owe me nothing and so I praise You for everything because it is all extra, all blessing, even hardships, challenges I am grateful for, even if it my heart is heavy I know that You are good, You are still the same, You still have me. I choose You. I need You, You only. Amen.
Jillwithaj,
I relate when you say:
Jill, Thank you!
“He could have mocked me, it would have been justified, but he loved me instead.” brought tears of gratefulness to my eyes and heart.
and this addresses what I have been wrestling with this week as I’ve pondered the question “Am I fundamentally happy?”“ ‘Happiness does not come from controlling your circumstances but controlling you allegiance.’ It is ok to have a heavy heart – the tree feels affliction.”
I was thinking back to trials of this past year, knowing that my physical health was damaged during the trials. When I read your statement “the tree feels affliction,” I realized that Jesus health was damaged — to the point of death. Unlike Jesus, I sinned and continue to sin, and am fully in need of His Grace and Peace.
After reading your post, I can answer the question. Yes, I am fundamentally happy (but maybe not as some would define it). During storms of the past years, branches may have broken, fruits may have fallen to the ground, but my roots have grown deeper and I have more peace. Because of Him, this tree (I) won’t topple when the river becomes shallow or die when the river floods.Jill, something clicked when I read your post, and this week’s study seems more clear.
Reading your post and Jill’s…yes, things are “clicking” with me, too. This is helpful for me to remember, “it is ok to have a heavy heart – the tree feels affliction”. Often I beat myself up for feeling unhappy, or heavy, or sad…thinking that I must be failing to do something “right” as to living the Christian life. Keller made the point that when pain comes, to just smile and praise the Lord is more like brainwashing than being real.
I’ll listen to Keller again. It didn’t work for me to listen when I was attempting to work online. Then, I ended up listening when I was really tired. I liked it at first, but I think I may have fallen asleep!
Susan,
That struck me too-I am like you Susan in so many ways with beating myself up for having normal emotional responses…but He is healing me of that-and oh I don’t like being around others who think you have to smile and say praise the Lord when in pain..I think this Sermon pretty much pounded it in deeper and helped me so..To remember He is a man acquainted with many sorrows yet He didn’t faint..He pressed into God..How do we press into God if when the pain comes we just act like it isn’t there?
“During storms of the past years, branches may have broken, fruits may have fallen to the ground, but my roots have grown deeper and I have more peace. Because of Him, this tree (I) won’t topple when the river becomes shallow or die when the river floods.”
Renee, this is a great realization…one many (including myself) can embrace…thanks for sharing.
Renee, and many others — SUCH RICH POSTS. I can identify — broken branches and all.
6.The attitude of the younger son
I looked for the younger son to come back because he missed the father and wanted to be with him, but it looks like it was his hunger that brought him back (may we be famished). This son was completely broken and repentant. He saw his unworthiness and asked for nothing but a job. He saw his father’s mercy too in that the hired servants were treated better than he had been in the world. He was used, abused and left for dead.
The kiss of the Father was LOVE! He welcomed the son back with his whole heart as a full son.
It causes me to worship right now because Jesus became this son for us. His reason for leaving was pure in that He left to get us but He returned broken and covered with our filth. The Father raised Him up glory.
Anne,
OH! This is so Anne and melted me in my tracks-so so so good: “I looked for the younger son to come back because he missed the father and wanted to be with him, but it looks like it was his hunger that brought him back (may we be famished).
-Yes and God ran to Him to be his satisfaction- like cold water rushing down his parched throat.
That was very Keller-like Anne — loved it!
Wow, Anne. Love your perspective.
7. I should respond to this kiss by paying homage to the Son. I should respond with acts that honor Him. Acts driven not out of obligation but devotion and love are my kiss to the Son.
12. Based on this lesson, if you are not a basically fundamentally happy person, why not? I think that I am, however, I know that I am just beginning to get the gospel that I am planted in, so I sometimes sway. This is why I am so convicted to stop, be aware, focus, drink in…time and time again the Lord convicts me to pause and drink and then move forward. I have one particular circumstance daily that I have a hard time feeling my roots in, but the Lord is faithful and I can see some progress as I chug away. I can see a danger of completely upsetting my fundamental happiness if I were to just react constantly to what is around me, what encounters me – because then my focus becomes what is around me and not what is in me.
13. What is your take-a-way and why. The tree. The picture and the concept. The visual of my spiritual life to encourage me to focus on where I am planted and drink deep.
PS I miss the faces! But it was a fun party. =)
12. Based on this lesson, if you are not a basically fundamentally happy person, why not?
Actually I think I am basically and fundamentally a happy person, but I can have my bad moments. I can be guilty of seeking happiness in circumstances and externals. I had never analyzed it that way before this study, but I can certainly see the truth in it. Most assuredly it does not work to plan or scheme to try to get things worked out in a way I believe will make me happy. I am better off to focus on the basic spiritual fundamentals — love the Lord, Praise and pray frequently, and serve gladly.
13. What is your take-a-way and why?
Not surprisingly, for me, it was Keller’s sermon. It just rang with the truth all the way through it! One of his remarks was that our psychology books are all about the problem of happiness. When I think about that, it is so on-target.
Our area of Northwest Ohio has been really socked-in this week by the weather. We were under a level-three snow and temperature emergency for three days in a row — which meant only emergency vehicles were allowed on the roads. It was interesting to note how people did or didn’t cope with that situation. Some were basically and fundamentally happy people and some were not! Those whose happiness is centered on circumstances and externals probably had a rougher time. I think this was a well-timed study, Dee!
Deanna–interesting application with your weather! I’m a wimp on the cold, can’t even imagine the kind of cold you mention–that would definitely test me! But I love how you said this–“Most assuredly it does not work to plan or scheme to try to get things worked out in a way I believe will make me happy. I am better off to focus on the basic spiritual fundamentals — love the Lord, Praise and pray frequently, and serve gladly. ” You’re so right! As a recovering “schemer”–it never really works 😉
I am excited to start this study!
Excellent, Connie…and we’re so happy you will be with us. Welcome!
13. What is your take-a-way and why?
Not sure if I can make sense of these thoughts “out loud” yet, but this is the only chance I have today to post a take away. I was reminded this morning that like the tree, I was created to get my life vertically, not horizontally. When I look at the times I get most frustrated—usually there is an underlying sense of the people in my life needing something from me, of me—more honestly, it is when I need myself to be a certain something to them—my idol of approval. Other times I feel weakest is when I am trying to calm the winds around me—I feel like I cannot stand up any longer, and desperately want quiet.
The problem though is that I am trying to give to others out of my own resource and strength. And I am trying to calm the winds—instead of going with them. If I let myself blow a little, I could see that I am not chaff, I will not be blown away, He will sustain me. And all of these “needs” around me—He has the supply for. I am on horizontal overload and that’s when I think I could fall over! I was not created to give from my own limbs only. And I was not created to receive all that I need horizontally.
I am a tree, but only a tree. A tree will die without roots that pull from the Source. I must be rooted in deep—to withstand the winds, rather than the futility of trying to control them. I must be rooted in deep so that I have a Source to pull from to give love out to others. I don’t have enough on my own—but He is the Source. And I must be rooted in deep so that I am nourished—not by the approval of man but by the life-giving overwhelming love of my Father. Rooted in deep. Let it fill me up.
elizabeth,
YES, “rooted in deep.” It takes some time for a tree to get “rooted in deep” doesn’t it?
The metaphor of root and fruit is fitting for thriving Christians. I love how Isaiah says it, “take root downward and bear fruit upward” (Isa 37:31).
9. The counsel of the wicked is based on fear not trust in The Lord. Lack of trust in God says that you had better provide for yourself and make sure you have it. The whole world is based on this counsel. Every time that I act out of fear I behave like one who does not know God. If I know Him, I will trust Him. I fear all sorts of things. Like relationships, which is driven by need for approval, not having enough money to pay bills and becoming homeless, losing my health, my children becoming destitute. All of those things play with my mind especially when I see them happening around me. Right now I confess that I am full of sin yet I am making progress toward trust because I am so much better than I was. Oh how I have seen His love and faithfulness! How could I forget? Yet I do in my subconscious mind and it wells up, bubbling up like poison.
What is your take-away and why?
I listened to Tim Keller’s sermon two times, it was so good.
Since I’ve received the “Gospel Kiss” myself years ago, I’m seeing more clearly, that I’m called to welcome back the rebellious sons who come back home after being away from the Father house or whether it’s the rebellious law-keeping sons who stay at home, it makes no difference. Jesus painted a word picture showing His Father going out to both sons. I’m called to the same, showing forth the Fathers heart and character to whoever comes across my path.
I woke up this morning with this verse going through my mind; It spoke to me of Kissing the King in Psalm 2. It summed up my whole week in a nut shell.
Cindy–I too love that our Father goes to both sons–as I have been a mixture of both! His grace is for both–so thankful
You brought more clarity and depth to my muddled thoughts Cindy–LOVE the reference to Isaiah 37:31 “take root downward and bear fruit upward.” When Keller said “The first major mistake we make is looking to externals, our circumstances for happiness. But real happiness is found inside, where our roots are, in what you are”–I am reminded that it is when I look outward instead of upward–when I look to my externals, to circumstances, to even human relationships to satidfy–I cannot be truly happy. It will fail every time. My roots must go downward–receiving life and joy and love from His Source and then I bear fruit upward–to His glory.
13. I loved this lesson for so many reasons. His kisses are truly sweeter than wine. I loved learning to see and savor them.
Most of us learned how to be happy as we sang in Sunday School: seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness; and all these things will be added unto you; Hallelujah!
Somehow, as life happens and we forget. How excellent that we have revisited this truth.
The sermon was so good and so encouraging. I am planning to set my husband up with it in the morning before I go to church.
My take away is that happiness is possible but only as a gift from The Lord to His children. Seek it and you will not find it. Seek Him and you will get Him and happiness.
Dee it is so cool that you spoke of the Spirit moving among us in response to Bono. I love his heart for the poor and for Africa and the beautiful way he called our government up to it. But what struck a cord that I think came from the Spirit is his call to unity in our government. I am a Rebuplican like my parents before me and so are my husband and son. He (son) is the president of the Federalist Society for his school. My daughter in law is a Democrat like her parents before her with ties to the ACLU. She’s a wise girl with a good heart. I believe God has been speaking to me in this. He is calling us to unity. I appreciated your encouragement to pray for our governments. This excites me because if it is from The Lord, it is how He plans to move. I pray that our leaders on both sides of the isle will delight in the law of The Lord.
Good insights. I thought Bono was such a model in his talk of diplomacy and unity.
I’ve always loved Sojourner’s bumper sticker: God is not a Republican or a Democrat.
elizabeth,
What’s so remarkable to me is, when everyone shares– what they see– we together begin to get greater and progressive magnification of what the Holy Spirit is showing us.
When that happens (as the many remembered Body of Christ) that leads us– deeper into the true and Living God.