TRULY, I BELIEVE TOGETHER WE CAN MOVE TO HIGHER GROUND THIS YEAR.
IF YOU’VE BEEN HERE BEFORE, WELCOME BACK!
IF YOU ARE NEW, WELCOME! (Newcomers — go to Dee’s homepage, click Bible Study Blog on the top, and then look for this picture, click on it, and it will give you easy directions to participate.)
THOUGH IT IS TRUE NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS TEND TO BE BROKEN,
I THINK THAT IS BECAUSE WE ATTACK THE SYMPTOM AND NOT THE ROOT.
We resolve to spend less, eat less, get less angry.
Or, we resolve to be more like Jesus and give more grace, be more other-centered,
live more simply…
But we seem to break all those resolutions.
MY BOOK OF THE YEAR FOR 2016 IS:
FOR THE NEXT TWO MONTHS I WILL CONCENTRATE ON SOME OF THE LIFE-CHANGING INSIGHTS FROM SCRIPTURE THAT WILBOURNE BRINGS.
WE WILL BEGIN WITH WILBOURNE’S DEFINITION OF A TRUE BELIEVER.
MANY PEOPLE, IF ASKED TO DEFINE WHAT A CHRISTIAN IS,
WOULD TELL YOU IT IS FOLLOWING THE TEACHINGS OF JESUS.
YOU ASK YOURSELF, “WHAT WOULD JESUS DO?” AND TRY TO DO IT.
AND WHILE THAT IS NOT WITHOUT MERIT,
THE FUNDAMENTAL ERROR IS THAT IT ASSUMES CHRIST
IS OUTSIDE OF OURSELVES,
AND THAT LIVING THE CHRISTIAN LIFE MEANS TRYING,
WITH ALL OUR MIGHT, TO DO WHAT HE DID.
THAT APPROACH FAILS, AND LEADS NOT TO JOY,
BUT TO MISERY AND DESPAIR, FOR, A FEW DAYS INTO THE NEW YEAR,
OUR BUDGET, OUR DIET, AND OUR GOOD INTENTIONS HAVE FAILED AGAIN!
WE HAVE NO POWER IN OURSELVES.
WE SIMPLY CANNOT DO IT ALONE.
CONSIDER:
THE WORD CHRISTIAN OCCURS ONLY 3 TIMES IN SCRIPTURE.
THE PHRASE “IN CHRIST” OCCURS AROUND 165 TIMES.
THIS PHRASE BETTER GRASPS THE SECRET.
THIS IS HOW WE ARE GOING TO START THE NEW YEAR RIGHT!
BY CONTEMPLATING THIS MYSTERY,
ALLOWING IT TO SOAK INTO OUR VERY BONES,
AND RAISE US FROM THE DEATH OF TRYING TO DO IT OURSELVES
TO JOYFUL VICTORY IN CHRIST!
WHAT IF THE ONLY RESOLUTION YOU MADE THIS YEAR WAS
TO CONCENTRATE, THROUGH THE DAY, ON KEEPING COMMUNION WITH CHRIST?
I BELIEVE YOU WOULD DISCOVER LUSH FRUIT BEGINNING TO APPEAR
IN YOUR VINEYARD.
YOU WILL NEED PATIENCE, SUCH AS AN ORCHARD KEEPER DOES,
BUT IF YOU PERSIST IN A LONG OBEDIENCE IN THE SAME DIRECTION,
AND AT THE END OF THIS YEAR,
SHOULD THE LORD ALLOW YOU ANOTHER YEAR,
YOU WOULD FIND YOURSELF ON HIGHER GROUND!
I KNOW MOST OF YOU ARE IN OTHER STUDIES, AND I WANT YOU TO DO THEM.
I WILL KEEP THESE STUDIES SHORT, WITH A LITTLE TO DO EACH DAY.
I WILL POST A NEW STUDY EVERY TWO WEEKS.
EACH OF US WILL STUMBLE, BUT WILL FIND STRENGTH FROM ANOTHER
WE WILL PERSIST, AND WE WILL, THROUGH THE MIGHTY POWER OF CHRIST,
AND OUR UNION WITH HIM AND ONE ANOTHER, GET TO HIGHER GROUND.
GIVE A HAND TO THE FAINT,
AND EXHORT ONE ANOTHER TO PRESS ON
TO TRUST NOT IN OUR OWN EFFORTS,
BUT IN CHRIST ALONE.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=wNRFumI2ch0
Go at your own pace, but I’ve given you bite-sized assignments each day. This way you can keep up with your other studies. If you don’t have other studies, you can spend more time here. Read comments as you feel led.
SUNDAY, NEW YEAR’S DAY, 2017!
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
MONDAY, JAN 2
2. Read James 4:8
A. What promise is in the first sentence?
B. What, according to the 2nd sentence, is it important to keep short-accounts throughout the day?
C. How does this song from Sara Grove’s illustrate the truth of this passage?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e5zkOfSJSn4
TUESDAY, JAN 3
Wilbourne quotes Aristotle who says “the soul never thinks without an image.” So the Word gives us images to show that Christianity, unlike the world religions, does not have a leader who is outside ourselves, but who, through His Spirit, lives in us, bringing rivers of living water welling up in our souls. Two images from the Word that help us begin to grasp this mystery are “the organic life of a plant” and “marriage.” A tree’s roots draw strength from the soil, and a branch draws strength from the vine. They are “one.” In the same way, a husband and a wife become “one.” Both of these metaphors permeate the Song of Songs. Watch the promotional video for my upcoming book, He Calls You Beautiful.
3. Take some time with this:
A. How does the image of a vineyard, or the vine and the branches, give you insight into how you might move to higher ground in 2017?
B. How does the image of marriage give you insight into how you might move to higher ground in 2017?
4. And of course I’d love input into the video! 🙂
WEDNESDAY, JAN 4, 2017!
On a personal note, after this picture below was taken of me and 8 of my 13 grandchildren this Christmas, I thought about how my late husband Steve (born on Jan 4th!) wanted Psalm 128:3 on his tombstone.
(I forgot — but will remedy that on his stone some day!) Whether you have biological, adopted, or spiritual children — our marriage to Chirst, our union with Christ, can make us fruitful vines, helping the next generation to hear of HIs faithfulness and goodness. One day we will all be around His table.
This psalm combines the metaphor of marriage and the vine and has me PONDERING!
Our union and communion with Christ affects not only us, but generations to come.
5. Think about your children, for if we have known the Lord for a few years, we have spiritual children, people we are mentoring, or, you may have biological or adopted children/grandchildren. How does your life impact them? How could you pray for them today, show them Christ’s love, or mentor them?
6. What I pray for you is that each day you will get your soul “happy” in the Lord, as George Mueller put it. When will you “eat,” what will you “eat,” and where will you “eat”? (Planning a routine will help!)
Ponder this:
Thursday and Friday, January 5 and 6
THE TREE AND VINE METAPHORS
Psalm 1 and John 15 are key in helping us grasp communion in Christ. So we will begin 2017 with these pictures — and consider the marriage metaphor another time.
Let’s start with classic Keller on Psalm 1 — an image of a tree planted by rivers of living water — closely related to a branch abiding in the vine. Please listen to this and share your thoughts and comments. It will help you get started on the path toward joy in 2017. If you are running out of time, do it over the weekend!
7. Share your notes or reflections on Keller’s The Search for Happiness.
Saturday, Jan 7
8. What is your take-a-way this week and why?
Sunday, Jan 8
I was quickened when Keller talked about why we are tempted to lie, or to cheat, or to run elsewhere. We seek happiness above holiness, and yet holiness is what leads to happiness. Seek happiness and you lose it, seek holiness, seek righteousness, seek Christ — and happiness gets thrown in. This is like Jonathan Edward’s belief that “True human happiness cannot be found or experienced apart from God’s glory. “Therefore God’s glory and human flourishing are one and the same.” For example, when I refuse forgiveness from my heart, I do so, because I think it will make me happier. But indeed, if instead, I choose God’s glory, and forgive from my heart, to my surprise, I find joy seeping up into my bones. C. S. Lewis famously said the same:
Rankin Wilbourne shares the same in Union with Christ — and also does a wonderful job of showing how throughout the ages this is the secret the saints and the martyrs knew. Holiness is to be sought for it leads to joy and beauty. I am experiencing this. Sometimes I beat myself up that it took me so long to really grasp this — for I don’t have that much life left! Yet I am thankful to see it now and want to mentor younger women to discover it sooner than I did.
9. What thoughts do you have on the above?
10. How did you do in the first week of the new year? (Remember, we are not aiming for perfection but for, what Eugene Peterson calls, “a long obedience in the same direction.” This will lead to fruit in your vineyard. Did you keep shorter accounts with God? Did you draw near to Him? If not, what would He tell you?
MONDAY, JAN 9
Prepare your heart with this from Kim Hill: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g0DVrTk80Ps
11. Read Psalm 1, remembering that “blessed” is another word for “happy.” What is the main point of this psalm and how will you apply it?
TUESDAY, JAN 10
12. Look at Psalm 1 again
A. You may have already memorized this psalm — if so, review it. If not, or even if you have, choose a verse that quickens you and meditate on it day and night. What did you choose and what reflections do you have?
B. Has the Word become a “delight to you?” If so, why? If not, find heart in knowing it is an acquired taste, and it will be if you persist in a long obedience in the same direction.
WEDNESDAY-FRIDAY JAN 11-13 2017
(On a personal note I am speaking in the prison/hospital in Houston for the rest of the week and covet your prayers!)
Prepare your heart with this from John Michael Talbot: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oHr7Z7ZS3GE
13. Read John 15:1-5
A. What does Jesus say in verse 1? Meditate on this and share what you see.
B. There is a pattern in John where Jesus differentiates between false shepherds and Himself, the good shepherd. He differentiates between attempting to come to God through others ways and through Him, the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Now He says He is the “True vine,” implying we may try to get our sustenance from false vines. Consider ways you have tried to get guidance, help, or sustenance in false ways in 2016. How could this year be different?
C. Why is a branch not able to bear fruit unless it is connected to the vine?
D. Psalm 1 might lead us to believe that all we need to do is meditate — and even this passage might make us think all we need to do is to be in the Word. Yet it is possible to hear the Word and not obey. What does Jesus add in verse 10, and what are the promises in 10 and 11?
E. What similarities do you see between Psalm 1 and John 15?
SATURDAY, JAN 14, 2017
14. What is your take-a-way this week and why?
357 comments
5. Think about your children, for if we have known the Lord for a few years, we have spiritual children, people we are mentoring, or, you may have biological or adopted children/grandchildren. How does your life impact them? How could you pray for them today, show them Christ’s love, or mentor them?
I have 3 children, ages 16, 23, and 25. When they were young, they were receptive to God; we read Scripture together, went to church together. Two of my children prayed to receive Christ. Now, they seem to have no “appetite” for spiritual things. Other things in their lives seem to crowd Him out. I will always pray for them, that the things of this world will never completely satisfy them so that they miss God. I try to be there for them when they need me. There was last year, when my son went through a painful break-up, that he called me every day. That lasted a couple of months, and then he didn’t need me so much anymore and went back to not calling. He also started attending a church but I think he’s stopped going. Both of my sons will be moving this summer, one to Florida and one to Texas. My oldest son is also engaged. I think one way I can love him is to try to get to know his fiancé, and to love her. But it will be hard to really get to know her and to be close when they will live so far away, so I will need to get creative.
I love them no matter how they treat me; it seems easier to do that with a child, even more so than a spouse. I want to love them unconditionally.
6. What I pray for you is that each day you will get your soul “happy” in the Lord, as George Mueller put it. When will you “eat”, what will you “eat”, and where will you “eat”?
I am definitely more of a morning person, so my routine is to do Bible study or reading then. I have been doing the chronological reading through the Bible as I started it last year but failed. Currently I am in Job, and love seeing the “hidden” references to Jesus. I am still reading Nancy Leigh DeMoss Wologemuth’s book on gratitude as that is a huge area in my life where I need growth! I so easily get sucked down the drain of complaining and self-pity. As she puts it, you are either a “whiner or a worshipper”.
I like to listen to podcasts of teaching while driving. My mind tends to wander and I need it to help me stay focused.
Prepare your heart with this from Kim Hill:
11. Read Psalm 1, remembering that “blessed” is another word for “happy.” What is the main point of this psalm and how will you apply it?
Happiness comes from meditating on God’s word and having myself firmly rooted in Him and depending on Him no matter what seasons of life I am in.
12. Look at Psalm 1 again
A. You may have already memorized this psalm — if so, review it. If not, or even if you have, choose a verse that quickens you and meditate on it day and night. What did you choose and what reflections do you have?
There are many verses close to my heart but I have been thinking of Micah 6:8 lately. I want to please God and to do good and so I am using the three areas to guide my ways: justice, mercy, humility. Is it just? Am I being merciful? Am I humbling myself (He must increase; I must decrease)?
He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly[a] with your God.
B. Has the Word become a “delight to you?” If so,why? If not, find heart in knowing it is an acquired taste, and it will be if you persist in a long obedience in the same direction.
Yes. I am seeing the relevancy of God’s Word in my life more and more each day. The peace that comes along with it is like no other. I pray I will “persist in a long obedience in the same direction.”
Ernema, your questions related to Micah 6:8 are great; I’m adding them to my planner for ease in referencing, along with the Micah verse which in our day is so pertinent.
12. Look at Psalm 1 again
A. You may have already memorized this psalm — if so, review it. If not, or even if you have, choose a verse that quickens you and meditate on it day and night. What did you choose and what reflections do you have?
I’m pondering verse 6 which says, “for the LORD knows the way of the righteous but the way of the wicked will perish.” I know that in the Bible the word “know” means something deeper than we usually do. It’s not mere knowing “about”. When it talks about the Lord “knowing” us, I think it means he knows us deeply and with great affection. There is that verse that says of the wicked “depart from me for I never knew you.” The Lord certainly knows about the wicked. He knows the secrets of their hearts. But the Lord KNOWS us intimately and delights in us.
B. Has the Word become a “delight to you?” If so, why? If not, find heart in knowing it is an acquired taste, and it will be if you persist in a long obedience in the same direction.
I am a morning person both because I generally wake early and because sometimes the hurts of the previous day bother me most in the morning. I truly NEED to have time with my Lord in the morning, both prayer and Bible study, focusing on who God is, and remembering that I am loved and cherished by Him. This time has truly become a “delight” to me. But I also now realize that I can take my focus off God later in the day and fall into just wanting to shut my brain off and have my “comforts” – mindless games or TV entertainment. So now I am trying to spend time in Bible study as well later in the day, as time permits, instead of just turning to the TV or the computer to entertain me. So far, moderate success. I am a work in progress.
Diane,
I’m a morning person too. Fewer potential distractions then usually. And it helps me get my moorings for the day.
I’m a work in progress too, Diane…..I think that is a given until we reach that better country as C.S. Lewis calls it.
Dee,
Thank you for this Sara Groves song here this morning. I’m so grateful for how our Lord will use a song to reorient my mind and heart in the middle of a day or in a sleepless night.
Diane — your lovely post reminds me of this from Sara Groves:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-p_A15gb_xQ
Thanks for the song, Dee. Sara must be a morning person, too. … “before the stirrings” Yes, He is our hiding place. He is my “happy place”. He gives us songs. He helps us learn to soar!
Laura — I hope you see this! I did check on the change you wanted to the website and I’m afraid it wouldn’t be simple — therefore very expensive. So sorry.
Oh, too bad! Thanks for checking and thinking of your prison visits this week. Praying.
My take away on part 1 is that, my eyes have been open to seeing a new understanding of the vine and the branches. I have heard this many times but this weeks readings just made it so much clearer. We can get to the higher ground God has for us, but we need to cling to Him and grow upward just like a vine would grow from when it was first planted as a seed.
Also the message from Tim Keller was wonderful, so much to learn from that sermon that Ihave posted it to my Life Group to take time out of their day and listen to it.
And I’m excited for your new book to be released Dee. Song of Songs is sometimes hard to understand and get the true meaning, that I’m looking forward to your book to help me get more meaning out of.
9. What thoughts do you have on the above? – It seems so simple, that seeking holiness will bring us joy and happiness, but yet I still fall short here. I need to write this down and put it all over where I can constantly be reminded of the simplicity of my happiness is to just seek His Holiness.
10. How did you do in the first week of the new year? (Remember, we are not aiming for perfection but for, what Eugene Peterson calls, “a long obedience in the same direction.” This will lead to fruit in your vineyard. Did you keep shorter accounts with God? Did you draw near to Him? If not, what would He tell you? – I’m working so hard at drawing near to him at all times of the day. I do seek Him in the morning and pray and praise him on my way to work, but I sometimes forget to reach out to Him during the day. I think the Lord would tell me, ‘Julie, let it go and keep your eyes turned toward me and I will bring peace to your soul’. I have decided to start getting rid of the negativity in my life and by doing that, I’ve signed off of Facebook for a while. There is so much anger and hatred being put out there, that I can feel myself, my attitude turn in that direction as well, so I have said good bye, at least for now, to the cruel world that we live in. This will also free me up to study, (my classes start back Tuesday) and to spend more time on this blog and in the Word, growing to my higher ground.
11. Read Psalm 1, remembering that “blessed” is another word for “happy.” What is the main point of this psalm and how will you apply it? – How funny that this is what I’m studying tonight. The same night I decided to get rid of the negativity that is going in to my mind. Love how God is right there where I need him ALL THE TIME! If I walk a road less travelled but a road that is much healthier for me, the Lord will be by my side and will guide me down that road. I don’t need to be a part of the ‘Sin Saloon, or Dead-End Road’ group. I can be free to travel with the Lord. He will take care of the sinners and this is something I will gladly give to him to do.
Laura P, loved the Message version of Psalm 1. Oh my, funny and too the point for sure.
12. Look at Psalm 1 again
A. You may have already memorized this psalm — if so, review it. If not, or even if you have, choose a verse that quickens you and meditate on it day and night. What did you choose and what reflections do you have? – There are so many verses in Psalm 1 that I love, but right now, for the time of my life I’m in, I think verse 5 “therefore the wicked will not survive the judgment, and sinners will not be in the community of the righteous”. This helps me so much, to know that the Lord sees what we are all doing, good or bad, and He will handle the judgement on all of us. I know I still need to do my part and try and make the world I live in a better, more peaceful place to live, but I can rest easy that those who continue to do wrong and are wicked will see the hand of God come down upon them.
B. Has the Word become a “delight to you?” If so, why? If not, find heart in knowing it is an acquired taste, and it will be if you persist in a long obedience in the same direction.- I find for me, when I’m surrounded by Christian music or hearing God’s Word in song or a spoken message all day, my spirit is more calm and I feel happier. The rough edges start to crumble and I can just feel peace surrounding me. I just need to keep reminding myself of this, so I focus on what is good, and pure and not on sinful thoughts, or angry attitudes.
Love your diligence and contemplations, Julie.
12. Look at Psalm 1 again
A. You may have already memorized this psalm — if so, review it. If not, or even if you have, choose a verse that quickens you and meditate on it day and night. What did you choose and what reflections do you have?
I waited until the the end of the day to post so I could reflect all day first. I reflected on the verse where we should “…meditate on His law night and day…” I have done this for a week now so far and am consumed with Him! I am relishing it and really long for more. I turn to Him before anything else, reminding myself to focus on Him, even in the midst of the hectic day. It is truly a blessing.
13. Read John 15:1-5
A. What does Jesus say in verse 1? Meditate on this and share what you see.
Well, the sentiment of the whole thing is that we need Him. Without Him we will not succeed. I’m not sure I get the whole vine reference. The analogy is difficult to understand. I guess I am part of the vine; I am one of the branches. The Message says if I don’t bear good fruit then I get cut off. What is this good fruit that I should bear? Is he speaking of my offspring? Or, is he speaking of my worth in general – meaning that “things” I produce are good, like Him? So don’t get these analogies at times.
B. There is a pattern in John where Jesus differentiates between false shepherds and Himself, the good shepherd. He differentiates between attempting to come to God through others ways and through Him, the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Now He says He is the “True vine,” implying we may try to get our sustenance from false vines. Consider ways you have tried to get guidance, help, or sustenance in false ways in 2016. How could this year be different?
Well, in the past, I would tend to run to my friends and others to get their “opinions” about the issues in my life to see if they had a better idea of how to handle the situation than I did. Last year I did better going to Him instead of them and it worked! I usually got the answers I needed and the situation worked out in the end. My ultimate problem ended up learning patience. I am not perfect and have to remind myself, but I’m getting better for sure.
12. Look at Psalm 1 again
A. You may have already memorized this psalm — if so, review it. If not, or even if you have, choose a verse that quickens you and meditate on it day and night. What did you choose and what reflections do you have?
What truly delights me is how I see the vineyard in Psalm 1 this morning!! He is the vine, I am the branch and I can’t bear any fruit apart from the vine…so I was quickened by v. 2-3 and so I am meditating on that. For Delighting in His Word is connecting to the vine and from that fruit comes..and the rest of the Psalm can only be true about me if I am communing with Him in His Word..and not just letting it stay in my head but penetrating down to my heart-and overflowing in my affections for Him..so meditating on 2 and 3..yes.
B. Has the Word become a “delight to you?” If so, why? If not, find heart in knowing it is an acquired taste, and it will be if you persist in a long obedience in the same direction.
Yes..because He is the Word and I sense His presence there-like Twila said-it is coming home (not sure I am saying it exactly as she said it but that made a HUGE impact on me). He often arouses my sleepy heart in places where I thought I was awake! When I memorize-oh…talk about deeper still.
Rebecca — I love that too “coming home”
Would love your prayers — headed for the airport and roads are sheer ice. Thanks
Father, we ask You to put Your hedge of protection over Dee–as she travels now to the airport, guide her driving, protect her from other cars, please lead her there Lord by Your power and keep her perfectly safe. We pray for her as she enters the prisons in Texas, Lord, may they see Your light shine through her. Prepare hearts, make them soft to hear this vital, life-giving food of Your Word. Oh Lord, we pray that hearts would be broken, and would receive You–Your mercy, grace, love for each of them uniquely. We pray for true heart transformation in the prison Lord. We pray that Your lost sheep will hear You and come to ABIDE in You. Speak through Dee as Your vessel. In Your Holy Name we ask, Amen
Amen.
Lord, that you would be honored today in Dee’s life and through her testimony and sharing with the prisoners. Infuse the time with your presence and movement among the attendees. Be Dee’s safeguard as she travels. Direct her steps. May she live out her union with you. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Love you, Dee!
Amen.
Just prayed for you here again Dee…but the page refreshed and it didn’t take..that is okay- God heard, but I wanted you to know!!
13. Read John 15:1-5
The song from John Michael Talbot is one of my favorites of his. He along with Michael Card has ministered to me at various times in my life.
A. What does Jesus say in verse 1? Meditate on this and share what you see.
Jesus said He is the true vine and the Father is the gardener.
There will be false vines.
I am grateful that God the Father is the gardener and He knows which part of the vine needs to be cut and which branches needs to be pruned.
I am grateful that the gardener is God since He is all knowing and good.
B. There is a pattern in John where Jesus differentiates between false shepherds and Himself, the good shepherd. He differentiates between attempting to come to God through others ways and through Him, the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Now He says He is the “True vine,” implying we may try to get our sustenance from false vines. Consider ways you have tried to get guidance, help, or sustenance in false ways in 2016. How could this year be different?
I have looked to people and my circumstances to be my source of guidance, help or sustenance. This year, I would like to consistently look to God and His Word to be my FIRST source. Yes, He can use people but they should be secondary. I should seek Him first and His righteousness (Matthew 6)
Praying you through it all, Dee — weather, planes, schedules, takeoffs and landings, and receptiveness of the prisoners!
I finally got my hands on Rankin Wilbourne’s book, Union With Christ! Lifeway Christian Store held their last copy for me until I could get there and purchase it.
Just want to add this here too for non-FB members, HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR LAURA DANCER! You bring such LIFE, and JOY to our “family” here! So thankful for you. Praying for a Blessed Day!
I second that, Laura!
Thank you Deanna!
Thank you Lizzy! It was a nice day ?
HAPPY BIRTHDAY late, Laura! Didn’t notice this till today!
Thanks Mary!
11. Read Psalm 1, remembering that “blessed” is another word for “happy.” What is the main point of this psalm and how will you apply it?
Happy is the person who delights in the Word of God and His ways. It seems to be an upward spiral — if you delight in the Word and obey it, you become happier and more productive.
12. Look at Psalm 1 again
A. You may have already memorized this psalm — if so, review it. If not, or even if you have, choose a verse that quickens you and meditate on it day and night. What did you choose and what reflections do you have?
I chose verse 3 — “That person is like a tree planted by the streams of water, which yields its fruit in season, and whose leaf does not wither — whatever they do prospers.” I think Keller’s sermon probably led me to choose this verse. The more we delight in God’s presence — the more we tap into his power — the more fruitful we are. The opposite can also be true, depending on our choices. The more we allow sinners who ridicule God to affect our thoughts and attitudes, the more we separate ourselves from our source of nourishment (God).
B. Has the Word become a “delight to you?” If so, why? If not, find heart in knowing it is an acquired taste, and it will be if you persist in a long obedience in the same direction.
I think I have delighted in the Word for a long time. Of course, I am still a work in progress even so. However, I tend to be attracted to Bible studies. I only have two going on at this time. I have found it discouraging that our church Bible Studies have not been well-attended. It seems to be the same group that goes to Adult Sunday School on Sunday and also Bible Study on Tuesdays. We have kept that Tuesday group at night for years, hoping to draw younger working people into it. We recently gave up and said, if it is all retired people attending, we might as well have it when it is convenient for us — during the daytime. However, I feel sad about that.
I really like that phrase “a long obedience in the same direction!” It is a plan, and sometimes that is the best we can do!
I know we are all about encouraging people to read Scripture here, but I want to post this to encourage those who read Scripture and don’t “get” it, or sometimes feel they are getting nothing from it. This blog is all about inductive Bible study. The writing style is easy to read. The posts are usually short, encouraging, and very practical. Here is a couple of sentences to whet your appetite.
http://www.knowableword.com/2017/01/11/why-keep-reading-when-you-feel-nothing
Diane–really great site-glad you posted this!
wow, that is a great quote, Diane!
So good, Diane!
Thanks, Diane. This is always a good reminder.
Thanks Diane!
12B. The Word is a delight to me because the Word is Jesus (John 1). When we hold the Bible in our hands, read it for ourselves, hear it read, when we taste and see that God is good, we get to participate in the tangible evidence of His Spiritual reality. It never changes, yet it is new every morning. He both speaks through it for admonition and for comfort. It is living.
13C. A branch has no life, no root, of its own. It is totally dependent on the vine and the root. Interesting to me that the vine does not bear fruit by itself, but uses the branches for that, involving them in the joy of producing fruit for the Master. It is a get to, not a got to.
D. It is necessary to obey, besides abiding. We need to stretch out with the grace we’ve been given and put feet to it. Then He promises that we will remain in His love. Not removed, but kept. Then our joy will be complete. Here and now, we don’t understand or even see it all. But one day the last puzzle pieces will be added, and the picture of Christ, in us!, will be complete.
E. Comparison. Ps says blessed is the man who stays where he belongs. John says for us to remain in His love.
Ps says stay away from wickedness, sin and mocking. John says there are false vines and gardeners, so be careful.
Ps says he will meditate on God’s character. John says to remain in Christ and His love, or His character.
Ps says the life of the root will flow through him. John says also that life will flow through.
Ps says the wicked will perish, be cut off. John says the cut off branches will be added to the fire.
Ps says God watches over the way of the righteous. John says the Father God will tend us.
Both promise fruitfulness as a reward for actively abiding.
Dee, praying for your time in Texas. Lord, help Dee to abide in You during this time. Let her gather her calm and peace and love from You. Help her to allow Your life and Words to flow through her as You time it. Help her to be real and honest. We pray also that you would bring prepared hearts, seeking hearts, open hearts, to hear Your message through Dee. We praise You, Jesus, for giving us the privilege to be a part of this blog and to pray for Dee. And Lord, there are sisters here whose hearts are heavy and burdened. I ask for them that You would lead them even in their desert to find their oasis in You. Amen.
13. Read John 15:1-5
A. What does Jesus say in verse 1? Meditate on this and share what you see. Jesus says He is the vine and His Father is the gardener. It seems like the vine simply gives life to the branches. The vine provides the continued, needed sustenance for the branches to live and thrive but the gardener is the one who decides of there are things coming from the branches (like suckers) that need to be cut off or if the branch is bearing fruit but could do better and may need pruned. So Jesus provides all I need for life and God makes decisions about what I need to cause me to bear more fruit.
Also just wanted to say I LOVED that song about the vine and branches. It is so soothing to me.
C. Why is a branch not able to bear fruit unless it is connected to the vine?
Probably not enough sustanance? It would mean that it wasn’t getting enough of the water or sunlight, I imagine, to grow.
D. Psalm 1 might lead us to believe that all we need to do is meditate — and even this passage might make us think all we need to do is to be in the Word. Yet it is possible to hear the Word and not obey. What does Jesus add in verse 10, and what are the promises in 10 and 11?
We must stick to the commandments and we will be blessed by abiding in love. Through this, as we abide in Him, we get joy.
A HUGE thanks for your prayers. I woke to a driveway that was a sheet of ice, a dead car, and a plane to catch. God gave me His peace and brought the people of God to help — one even allowed me to take her car for five days! Who does that? A child of God. Then my flight was cancelled but I finally got here and I knew you were praying.
I woke up this morning — and sure enough — there were all the prayers. Thank you, my sisters!
WOW, this is HUGE, Dee! The enemy would have loved to discourage you but God turned it all around for His glory! 😀
Dee, oh my. Icy roads, dead car, cancelled flight, a car lent for 5 days … wow! I am so glad you arrived safely. God is good! He is helping you to practice abiding in difficulties! Prayer going up right now as you minister today and this weekend.
Oh Dee YOU would do this, and you did. You may not remember this but I will NEVER forget when my husband and I were travelling to Kansas to see Kyle get married, I had asked for prayers as we were leaving after work and would be travelling late in to the night. You offered your home to us, and you didn’t even know me, other than by me writing on the blog. I was blown away and we said, WHO DOES THAT? So I am not surprised at all that you would also be blessed with kindness.
I will continue to pray for your trip and your travels home. Be safe!
Wow Dee, it would seem that every odd was stacked against you….BUT GOD!
Dee, This is amazing..I melted hearing this..He is so good. Please update us on how we can pray while you are there!
Similarities between Psalm 1 and John 15: (I am not sure how this is format here on the blog because I did it in a table in Word and it didn’t show well here on the blog. I tried to fix it, but am not sure what will turn out.)
Jesus is the streams of water (implied by the symbolism), (Ps. 1:3) He is the law of the Lord, (Ps. 1:2)Jesus is the true Vine, (Jn. 15:1)
We are like a tree, (Ps. 1:3)We are the branches, (John 15:2)
We are not to walk in the counsel of the wicked, stand in the way of sinners, sit in the seat of scoffers, (Ps. 1:1,2)
There are branches “in me” that do not bear fruit, (John 15:2)
We bear fruit in season, (Ps. 1:3)We bear fruit, (Jn. 15:2)
The LORD watches over the way of the righteous (Ps, 1:6)The Father is the vinedresser, (John 15:1)
The chaff are the wicked which the wind drives away, (Ps. 1:4)Fruitless branches are thrown away, withered, can do nothing, is burned (John 15:2, 4, 6)
We are to delight and meditate on his law day and night, (Ps. 1:2)We are to abide in Jesus, we cannot bear fruit unless we abide, (Jn. 15:4, 9)
The Lord knows the way of the righteous, (Ps. 1:6)Jesus loves us, (Jn. 15:9)
We are blessed by delighting in the law of the LORD (Ps. 1:2)This kind of abiding brings us His joy in us, (Jn. 15:11)
13 B. There is a pattern in John where Jesus differentiates between false shepherds and Himself, the good shepherd. He differentiates between attempting to come to God through others ways and through Him, the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Now He says He is the “True vine,” implying we may try to get our sustenance from false vines. Consider ways you have tried to get guidance, help, or sustenance in false ways in 2016. How could this year be different? I see this in many big and small ways with idols that compete for the “true vine” position. For me, right now it is doing copious research on stage 4 breast cancer and treatments coming down the pike, alternative treatments, etc…and just an insatiable appetite for more information and understanding. I don’t think some of this would be “sin” in itself but I think it becomes that if I put my hope in me finding the right diet, treatment, etc…rather than resting in HIS sovereignty. I don’t need to weary and exhaust myself in the pursuit of life, because I have TRUE LIFE already and I far more need to “exhaust myself” and even totally spend myself in the pursuit of Him, for He alone is the “pearl of great value.” So for 2017 I hope to keep that balance. It’s okay to gain knowledge and strive for a healthy diet, exercise, look at other treatment options, but the pursuit of that cannot be central to my well-being.
Wow, Mary. You should be 110 — you have that kind of wisdom! What suffering has produced in you!
13. A. I never got that Jesus said HE was the vine and HIS FATHER was the gardener. The father is the one that prunes, not Jesus. Jesus is the one who we plug into and remain in relationship with. somehow this makes me feel more safe in HIM. to know that HE is not the one who is pruning.
B. After being asked to leave a ministry that I was a part of for almost 30 years and my first real big girl job I lost my identity. I floundered and struggled with depression. After two of my children got married this year I really struggled with my identity as mom. As my 13 year old was diagnosed with RAD and I started homeschooling her I again struggled with wondering if LL I will ever be is a mom, and if I will ever be a good enough one to help her be a happy adult!….Then God. Then God showed me that my search for identity apart from HIM was killing me. It was sucking the life out of who HE created me to be. I see now that I was so proud to say that I was a campus minister…that I had a title other than mom. I think that made HIM very sad. HE wants to be my identity, not what I do but WHO I am and who HE wants to be through me. Even the role of mom needs to come AFTER the role of daughter of the one true KING.
so in 2017 I pray that I will be able to rest in HIM and HIS identity and not grasp at a title that makes me feel good about myself. I dont need to know “who I am” I just need to trust in “WHOS I AM”
So true, Cyndi.” so in 2017 I pray that I will be able to rest in HIM and HIS identity and not grasp at a title that makes me feel good about myself. I dont need to know “who I am” I just need to trust in “WHOS I AM” . We have to remember whose we are.
So sweet Cyndi…
Cyndi, you articulate so well what all of us struggle with, and identity is a huge one. My identity for the past 25 years has been MOM, and one I have been most happy to be! As two of my sons are adults now and one getting married and a 16 1/2 year old daughter and so teetering on the brink of an empty nest, I feel like my identity will walk out the door with the last child.
I feel the same way!
Reflecting on my time in the word and in worship, the 2 scriptures of Ps. 1 and John 15, it is a joy to meditate on the concept of “the tree planted by rivers of water” and abiding in the vine, Jesus, my strength and my joy.
My goal of meditating, abiding and obeying helps me to cope with the distractions of health issues and relationship challenges. The false vine I have encountered is like the success of worldly goals.
I, too, have been drawn to study the Word, but now I am approaching it to let it nourish my soul and fill me with desire to obey and allow my suffering to not be wasted. Starting the day with time to read, meditate and let God direct my thoughts prepares me and I go back to the worship songs through my day.
I am looking forward to hearing about the fruit of the prison ministry, Dee. Praying for the Holy Spirit to draw these women’sh hearts to a saving faith.
13. Read John 15:1-5
A. What does Jesus say in verse 1? Meditate on this and share what you see. – Jesus is telling us that He alone is the TRUE VINE and His Father is the vineyard keeper. Jesus is warning us that there may appear to us some that we may think are the vine, but Jesus is still the only way and is the One True Vine. I also see here that God is the keeper of the Vineyard and as one that tends to the Vineyard, they are pruning, fertilizing, watering, and removing any dead branches that may get in the way of growth. This relates to all of us so well. Jesus is our only way of getting to His Father who will help us growth by pruning us and getting rid of any dead weight we may be carrying around.
B. There is a pattern in John where Jesus differentiates between false shepherds and Himself, the good shepherd. He differentiates between attempting to come to God through others ways and through Him, the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Now He says He is the “True vine,” implying we may try to get our sustenance from false vines. Consider ways you have tried to get guidance, help, or sustenance in false ways in 2016. How could this year be different? – Oh there are so many ways in which we can be fooled in to thinking one we believe can help us is a true man or woman of God, but in reality they are just false teachers. I know I listen to a lot of Christian music and talk shows, and sometimes I am listening to the speaker, and I question what is being said and if it truly is God’s words coming from that speaker. The only way we will know if what is being said is true is to constantly be in The Word all the time, to know what the bible says so we can guard our hearts and minds. I need to be aware of everyone and discern if God has placed that person in my life or if that person is an impersonator.
C. Why is a branch not able to bear fruit unless it is connected to the vine? – If a branch is not connected to the vine it will not bear fruit because the nourshiment that it gets from the vine will be cut off. Just like our bodies, God created us with all our organs and veins and arteries connecting to each other so they continue to give each other the nourishment our bodies need to continue to thrive and live. Once any of these things stop working, our bodies will slowly die and that is the same for the branches that no longer are connected to the vine. They will cease to live.
I only have a few mins but was blessed by all the comments & wisdom & love shared here. I’ve got behind again. Dee…what wonderful answers to prayer! Praying that u are filled & used mightily, & that many hearts are touched! Cant wait to hear about it when u return! Happy belated B’day Laura! 🙂
Thanks Jenny!
13 C. Why is a branch not able to bear fruit unless it is connected to the vine? Because the vine is literally the direct sours of life (life-giving nutrients) for the branches so apart from it, death ensues.
13. D. Psalm 1 might lead us to believe that all we need to do is meditate — and even this passage might make us think all we need to do is to be in the Word. Yet it is possible to hear the Word and not obey. What does Jesus add in verse 10, and what are the promises in 10 and 11? That if we keep His commandments we will remain in His love and He told us this so that our joy might be made full. This verse is a little confusing to me because I know He loves us even if we disobey His commandments…so the question is…is there a difference between being loved BY Him and remaining in His love? Is the former passive on our part and the later active on our part???
Just found the answer to my own question. I had not popped open the Union With Christ book in a few days and I just now opened to ch 13 and lo and behold there was Wilbourne’s explanation of this! :
Ugh! I don’t know if it is legal to directly quote a chunk of someone’s book in this venue so I’m going to just try to summarize, I guess Basically he says that on one hand our union with Christ (abiding) is solid and sure. We are His, our behavior and what we do or don’t do does not change that. On the other hand, what we do or don’t do/obey does very much affect our EXPERIENCE of that union/communion with Christ and with the Father! He refers to John 14:21 where Jesus promises that if we obey Him we abide in His love and He will love us and we will be loved by the Father and He will disclose Himself to us. The the facts of the relationship are solid completely irrelevant to our performance (we are in Him, He is in us) but the full EXPERIENCE of all that relationship has to offer can only be realized through living rightly before Him, following Him in obedience. In that we can experience the Father and Son’s disclosure of themselves to us. I want that more than anything. More than anyone else I long to know. But I’m just never 100% always doing right, so I pray for mercy in this. Like today I have gone back and forth, crying and fretting, then bringing myself back to trusting, reminding myself I need to trust Him. If only I could stay right there in the place of trust every moment. But I still look so human. Praise God He loves me anyway and continues to move me on.
Not sleeping well lately, hence these after midnight posts!
Mary e., I am so glad you found the answer to your own question and shared it with us here. Your honest sharing of your struggle and tears and fighting back to the place of trust is something I can truly relate to, though your trials are light years more than mine. Sorry you are not sleeping well. I had noticed the night time post. Keep posting! Your posts are such a treasure to me.
E. What similarities do you see between Psalm 1 and John 15?
Well, both have tree/plant imagery that speak of producing fruit when holding God close to them. Good things come to those who abide in the Lord. When you flock to sin, you will not succeed and prosper in your life.
Funny, “those guys” are getting together again! My bible verse of the day is Joshua 8:
“This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.”
Joshua 1:8 ESV
http://bible.com/59/jos.1.8.esv
7. Share your notes or reflections on Keller’s The Search for Happiness.
I remember this one. It was good to revisit it. Keller didn’t use the word “idolatry”, but he said that “The reason you’re unhappy is you’ve made something else your highest trust.” We seek happiness wrongly, in the externals, instead of what’s underneath us, or inside of us (where our roots are). I understand this. Keller said, “Ask yourself this question: If I really know this, then why am I so unhappy?”
My happiness seems to have evaporated today. The reason is a texting conversation I had last night with my son. He mentioned a problem a friend was having and how he was trying to help him. I brought Jesus into the conversation and he said something like, “I feel like I’m talking to a Bible study brochure. It would be nice to talk to the real person underneath sometimes.” So, I changed the subject, asked him a question and got a one word reply and then he stopped replying. I feel like a failure as a mom and as a believer because I make Jesus not relevant and attractive, but unappealing and a turn-off. Today I feel hurt and sad about it.
Keller said that “His delight is in the law of the Lord” means the essential message of the Bible: A great God sent His Son to die for you so He could be your Father. This is what you must delight in. I understand this. but to put it into practice….I don’t want to have a strained relationship with my son or to feel that he doesn’t even like me! But I guess I have to give that up to God and focus on delighting in Him. But I’m having a hard time.
Susan, my heart aches for you over the response of your son. What heart ache! I know how hard it is to share about Jesus with those who do not want to hear. I know what it is to feel like a failure in this. But perhaps, it is not that you are explaining about Jesus poorly, but that Satan has blinded his eyes right now. In any case, I can understand the hurt and sadness. I will pray for you and your son.
“Oh, Lord, deliver Susan from the accusations of the evil one who condemns her and disheartens her, whipping her with the words of one who she loves dearly. Thank you that there is now no condemnation for her. She is “in Christ Jesus”. She belongs to you. Hold her close, Jesus, and comfort and reassure her, precious Shepherd. Lift up her spirit and help her to keep her eyes on you. And Lord, I pray for her son who is broken, blinded and needy. Draw him, I plead, back to you.”
Diane, thank you so much for your comforting words and prayers for me and my son. It means a lot to me.
9. What thoughts do you have on the above?
Yes, yes….what is below the water line when I’m tempted to sin, to run to other things for comfort….is it that I just want relief and to feel happy? Yet those things only offer a temporary fix, while running to Jesus brings lasting peace and joy. I’m just reminded of the words of the psalmist, “Oh taste and see that the Lord is good!” Not meaning disrespectfulness towards the Lord with this, but in other words, I have a God who I can “sink my teeth into”….the sensory imagery in the psalms and in The Song is a real invitation to experience Him just like experiencing real, tangible things like a luscious dessert.
Susan-your transparency is always so refreshing. Taste and see that the Lord is good-and this is memorable: “I have a God who I can “sink my teeth into”….the sensory imagery in the psalms and in The Song is a real invitation to experience Him just like experiencing real, tangible things like a luscious dessert…”
I saw this from Tim Keller’s tweet account today and it reminded me of our study: For most of us, God hasn’t become our happiness. We, therefore, pray to procure things for our happiness, and not to know him better.
Wow, this is so good too, Rebecca! This is something to meditate on day and night.
13. Read John 15:1-5
A. What does Jesus say in verse 1? Meditate on this and share what you see.
Jesus says He is the True Vine. He is the one we should cling to, not allowing ourselves to be distracted by any other “vines.” The other distractions are not worthy of us following them, but Jesus is the True Vine, and He is the source of Life for us.
B. There is a pattern in John where Jesus differentiates between false shepherds and Himself, the good shepherd. He differentiates between attempting to come to God through others ways and through Him, the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Now He says He is the “True vine,” implying we may try to get our sustenance from false vines. Consider ways you have tried to get guidance, help, or sustenance in false ways in 2016. How could this year be different?
Perhaps by relying too much on the approval of others, such as how many “likes” I get on Facebook. I believe 2017 will be better if I keep my focus on Christ, cling to him, and try to be more Christ-like. I can’t imagine Christ ever being concerned about how many “likes” He got. That is actually humorous when I think of it.
C. Why is a branch not able to bear fruit unless it is connected to the vine?
A branch separated from the vine cannot grow without nourishment, and it cannot produce the same kind of fruit without guidance from the vine. It is like the instructions for how the branches are to make fruit come from the vine, saying “make round fruit or make oval fruit, make red fruit or make yellow fruit, etc.”
D. Psalm 1 might lead us to believe that all we need to do is meditate — and even this passage might make us think all we need to do is to be in the Word. Yet it is possible to hear the Word and not obey. What does Jesus add in verse 10, and what are the promises in 10 and 11?
It is important to be in the Word, but we need to apply the Word to our lives. If we keep His commandments we remain in His love, and our joy will be complete.
E. What similarities do you see between Psalm 1 and John 15?
Both emphasize staying in relationship with God, being connected, and therefore doing good rather than evil. Both speak of “being productive.” The fruitful branches or trees are true believers who draw their sustenance from Christ or God. Christ is the sustaining vine. God cares for the plants, feeding them, pruning them back so they will be more fruitful. However, those who are apathetic or unfruitful will be separated from receiving nourishment.
I will read all your comments tonight after prison. Thank you so for praying for us. Four ex-offenders will do a panel this morning to give those inside hope they can make it on the outside. I did The God of All Comfort yesterday — for they have known such suffering. Wonderful apointing and response. Today is Idol Lies. Thank you so for your prayers.
I have a really tight connection tomorrow going home and would love to make it! 🙂
Praying, Dee!
Lord our hearts are heavy for those who have known only suffering-many from childhood on..the abuse, neglect-oh..so many broken hearts that need you so..Quicken those four who are going to speak this morning and those who are going to hear of your Love and rescue. Open the eyes of those who are hearing Idol Lies today-of the lies of their idols and the destructive result BUT of your passionate pursuing Love-to rescue them and bring them to you. In your name above all names we pray.
Praying, Dee for hearts to continue to be soft towards the whispers of our Lord. And for your safety as go back home. May God lend swiftness to your feet and a clear pathway as you go from your arrival area to your connecting flight.
Bing said it perfectly! I’m making it my prayer as well, Dee!
Prayers for His Spirit to move in a mighty way, Dee.
When you speak, Dee, how many hours do you speak on a topic? It must be hard to cover all of God of All Comfort in one sitting and all of Idol Lies in another. Praying for you for strength, focus and His Spirit today and for tomorrow’s flights and connections.
13. Read John 15:1-5
A. What does Jesus say in verse 1? Meditate on this and share what you see.
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. ” – Jesus is the true vine-the One we are One with whom we live and breathe and obtain our very sustenance. The vinedresser is God..He trains the Vine, directs where it goes. He cuts off the dead branches and prunes it. I am thrilled that He chose me and pursued me and connected me to Him..I can’t help but see us, His church, here as one with Jesus our very sustenance-Christ our life. And God takes care of the pruning of those who claim to know Him but don’t.
B. There is a pattern in John where Jesus differentiates between false shepherds and Himself, the good shepherd. He differentiates between attempting to come to God through others ways and through Him, the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Now He says He is the “True vine,” implying we may try to get our sustenance from false vines. Consider ways you have tried to get guidance, help, or sustenance in false ways in 2016. How could this year be different?
Wow..the TRUE vine.. I have never really meditated on that before ..so a new layer he is showing me. I am seeing clinging to false vines as Idolatry-my bent nature desiring to cling to false vines that say they will sustain me with their guidance, help, advice, comfort, etc.
Sometimes I go to my husband or my mom first for comfort, guidance, help..instead of Him first. I want to be quicker at going to Him first, and with my husband we together would go to Him first before trying to come up with a plan first.
C. Why is a branch not able to bear fruit unless it is connected to the vine?
Because it isn’t connected to the vine and it loses the nourishment from the vine needed to bear fruit, or in some cases there are branches that even if barely connected die and can’t bear fruit.
D. Psalm 1 might lead us to believe that all we need to do is meditate — and even this passage might make us think all we need to do is to be in the Word. Yet it is possible to hear the Word and not obey. What does Jesus add in verse 10, and what are the promises in 10 and 11?
He wants us to keep His commandments and if so we will abide in His Love that His joy may be in us and that our joy may be full.
E. What similarities do you see between Psalm 1 and John 15?
Psalm 1 is a contrast of the two branches-one clings to Him communing with Him and obeys via a confident humility of His love, acceptance, and control, and while their nature cries out in hard times to bend away from Him instead presses in and produces fruit. The other branch separates from Him obeying their natural bend away from Him and toward idolatry. Idolatry is sitting in the seat of scoffers and walking in the way of sinners-turning away from resting in His approval and Love and searches for it elsewhere-they are like chaff that the wind drives away. I think of a dead branch that blows off the vine into the wind. As the branch that is connected to the vine presses in He will produce fruit in it’s season and his leaf will not wither.
My answer to #13a-the last line..not sure now..there are some who think the dead branches really never knew Christ-and I agree because God doesn’t cast us out when we go through our desert times but I can’t help but see how we are warned constantly of clinging to other vines and I know by experiencing a bent nature how my nature naturally bends away and how that affects the full experience of my relationship with Jesus-I go into the desert thirsting for nourishment and I think if we are there too long our hearts can harden. I think there are branches God cuts off that are tares..but maybe there are also dying branches that are of Him perhaps..and so perhaps this is more accurate as Mary quoted from the book-and I haven’t gotten to chapter 13 yet-Our union with Christ (abiding) is solid and sure. We are His, our behavior and what we do or don’t do does not change that. On the other hand, what we do or don’t do/obey does very much affect our EXPERIENCE of that union/communion with Christ and with the Father! The full EXPERIENCE of all that relationship has to offer can only be realized through living rightly before Him, following Him in obedience. In that we can experience the Father and Son’s disclosure of themselves to us.
Rebecca, thanks for reiterating Mary’s notes from Wilbourne’s book. ” Our union with Christ is solid and sure…what we or don’t do does very much affect our EXPERIENCE of that union…” As I think of my daughter, I struggle with the thought that she might not be a Christian after all seeing how her life is now. But I surely can remember her vibrant faith when she was younger. Oh, that she might walk closely with Jesus again. She is missing out on His joy and peace. But God is faithful as we pray for our children to “experience the Father and Son’s disclosure of themselves to (them) and to us.”
Bing you and I are going through the same valley. It seems daily when I have conversations with my oldest two my heart sinks deeper in grief. Then He picks me up and hides me again. My oldest likes to say, when I was a Christian..I don’t think he ever was. I think it was intellectual but God knows his heart. If he is His then He will woo Him back.
What is your take-a-way this week and why?
I now know that happiness is possible if I look to the Lord and not to my idols. Holiness is to be sought for it leads to joy and beauty. As I draw closer to God, I I will find more happiness because without God there is no true happiness. When I don’t have communion with God, I truly am missing the most important piece of my life, God. The only way to change this is make sure (plan) I am in communion with God throughout the day whether it is through prayer, Bible study or just listening for God. This is the only way I can draw closer to my God and bear fruit and move to the higher ground Dee is talking about in this study.
SATURDAY, JAN 14, 2017
14. What is your take-a-way this week and why?
The beauty of how John Michael Talbot’s song shows the work of the Trinity in our lives-Jesus the vine, the Father our keeper and the Spirit the life-giver. I need to stay connected to the vine, to allow the Father to keep me by pruning that which weakens me and to expect life to well within me as empowered by the Spirit.
I am the vine and you are the branches
Live in me and you will never die
I am the vine and my Father is the keeper
Come to me let the Spirit bring you life
Like a tree planted by the living water
To stretch its roots into the living stream
You will show no distress in the heat of the drought
But still bear fruit and leaves
I am the vine and you are the branches
Live in me and you will never die
I am the vine and my Father is the keeper
Come to me let the Spirit bring you life
Come to me all you heavy laden
My yoke is easy my burden is light
I will raise you up on the wings of an eagle
And to God’s mountain will fly.
14. What is your take-a-way this week and why?
I have loved this study for these last two weeks, and Dee, let me take this opportunity to say I think two-week studies is such a good idea! If I get behind (and I seem to have a real propensity for doing that), then I have a second chance to catch up. The guidance on our blog has dovetailed so perfectly with my daily devotional material, and other sources of spiritual intake. I feel very hopeful of making it to higher ground in 2017 with His help!
John 15:5 summarizes well my take-away: “I am the vine , you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”
11. Read Psalm 1, remembering that “blessed” is another word for “happy”. What is the main point of this psalm and how will you apply it?
It is possible for me to be blessed, to be happy, if I choose carefully what I will delight in. Just the word “delight” gives me images of a young child delighting in opening up a gift, or watching a bumblebee on a flower….it’s a “light” word, lighthearted, buoyant, airy. I must ask myself, do I delight in the message written to me in God’s Word, His love letter to me, telling me that He loved me so much He did and gave everything to reach down to me, to bring me to Himself? I need to think about this message, talk to myself even out loud about it. Do I bask in the knowledge that He can plant me like a tree and I can be rooted in Him and He makes His sun to shine upon me….He smiles upon me and it is like the sun, and He will make me produce fruit.
12. Look at Psalm 1 again
1. You may have already memorized this psalm – if so, review it. If not, or even if you have, choose a verse that quickens you and meditate on it day and night. What did you choose and what reflections do you have?
I am going to choose He is like a tree planted by streams of water….” I will meditate on this today. I like this particular verse because it is an image I can easily imagine in my mind. (I just started reading Union With Christ this morning, just the introduction today, and how he explains using our imaginations….imagination isn’t just defined as what isn’t real, it’s how we connect with an unseen God. He gave the example of Moses telling all future generations to put themselves in the Exodus story.)
B. Has the Word become a “delight” to you? If so, why?
There are some days when reading His Word is more of an “ought to” than a delight. I know I should and yet I feel pressured to get busy doing something. Sometimes it h as to be just that, a discipline. But that’s not enjoying it. Then there are the times when I delight in finding a nugget that I didn’t see before, or feeling like I am really meeting with God. I don’t know how to explain it with words, but when it says that the Word is living and active, at times I can just sense that….the Words really do seem alive, somehow….there is life behind and in those black letters on the page. It is therefore unlike any other book.
13. Read John 15:1-5
A. What does Jesus say in verse 1? Meditate on this and share what you see.
Jesus said that He is the TRUE vine. The word “true” stands out to me. Other places John says that Jesus is the TRUE light. This differentiates Jesus from “false” vines; perhaps those that promise life and abundance but not the real, lasting kind. He says that His Father is the Gardener. My Bible cross-references Isaiah 5:1-7, which is about the metaphor of God planting a vineyard (the vineyard represents His people and again, God the Father is the Gardener here). Yet this vineyard was a huge disappointment to God as it produced no good fruit, so God laid waste to it. Now here in John, Jesus says He is the true vine. Could this mean that Jesus is the true vineyard that God “planted” and HE, of course, grew perfectly and produced good fruit? (Also, going back to Psalm 1, I believe Keller also gave a message about how Psalm 1 could also be about Jesus as He is the blessed man talked about there). Jesus’ kingdom will last forever….His “vineyard” also will last forever and all those who are grafted in.
B. There is a pattern in John where Jesus differentiates between false shepherds and Himself, the good shepherd. He differentiates between attempting to come to God through other ways and through Him, the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Now He says He is the “True vine”, implying we may try to get our sustenance from false vines. Consider ways you have tried to get guidance, help, or sustenance in false ways in 2016. How could this year be different?
In 2016 (and before) I have tried to get sustenance (or comfort) from buying something – won’t a newly painted room or a new light fixture make me happy? It’s not wrong to fix up a room, but my contentment shouldn’t be found in it. Otherwise it deflates at the first scratch on the wall. My default is to turn to other people for guidance, help, and sustenance. This is tricky because we do need each other and God gives us family and friends to do life with. But I need to go to Him first and truly rely on Him….I still need to learn much about how to do this. It’s easy to say but hard to do. A listening friend is a good gift from God but my eyes need to be first on the Giver of the gift.
Other things I can do is put aside surfing the internet for information, or seeing what others are doing on FB.
C. Why is a branch not able to bear fruit unless it is connected to the vine?
Just like cutting fresh flowers. They “live” a little while, but they’ve been cut off from their source of life and nutrition.
D. Psalm 1 might lead us to believe that all we need to do is meditate – and even this passage might make us think all we need to do is to be in the Word. Yet it is possible to hear the Word and not obey. What does Jesus add in verse 10, and what are the promises in 10 and 11?
Jesus adds that if we obey His commands, we will remain in His love. The promises are that we may remain or live in God’s love and have joy.
E. What similarities do you see between Psalm 1 and John 15?
Psalm 1 talks about a rooted tree versus chaff without any root, and John 15 talks about vines and branches on the vine and those that are pruned or cut off. The cut off branches are burned in the fire; the chaff is blown away and is compared to the wicked who will not be counted among the righteous. Both seem to speak of those who are God’s children and those who are not, and their final destinations. Belonging to God is like being a living plant – tree, vine, branch – that depends fully on God for its very life.
Susan, I love your take aways…”Belonging to God is like being a living plant”. The pictures u give are easy for me to identify with…thanks. Praying fior your husband & kids, as I pary for mine also. May the walls be broken down & the scales removed from their eyes!! 🙂 Dee: echoing Bing’s prayer for you. He will guard your coming in & your going out now & forevermore!
This week I’ve been reminded that my stability & sustenance come from what I am planted in; thro the roots, thro my union with Jesus. I need to continually abide next to the streams of Life…joined to Jesus, the Vive. The True Vine, the Living water, the Fountain of Life, the Bread from Heaven, my Good Shepherd. He is always calling us to deeper dependence on Him, & sometimes I resist. I thought this morning of how He prepares a feast for us & invites us to sup with Him. How would I feel if I set a nice table & cooked & had everything ready, & invited a friend or one of my kids……, only to have them stay a few mins & hardly eat at all cause they were in such a rush! I pray for my desire to spend quality time with Him, to grow this year & bring Him joy. When I tast His Presence & Peace, there’s nowhere I’d rather be…but how quickly I forget & crowd Him out. What a patient loving Lord we have! 🙂
12. A. … choose a verse that quickens you and meditate on it day and night. What did you choose and what reflections do you have?
2But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on His law [His precepts and teachings] he [habitually] meditates day and night. 3And he will be like a tree firmly planted [and fed] by streams of water, Which yields its fruit in its season; Its leaf does not wither; and in whatever he does, he prospers [and comes to maturity].
These verses are a guide and a comfort. When the Lord and His will are my focus, He will be my provider and sustainer in times of joy and sorrow.
B. Has the Word become a “delight to you?” If so, why?
I enjoy reading in the morning; morning is a time when I am energized and my mind is more focused. The still, quietness makes for an atmosphere that encourages mindful awareness…it is such a delight when those “a-ha” moments come, or I come to a new understanding of a passage, and/or it feels like the word I am reading is a word for my day or circumstance (sometimes comforting and other times a “wake-up” call).
13. A. What does Jesus say in verse 1?
Jesus says that He is the vine and the Father God is the vinedresser (i.e., gardener). Followers of the Lord (branches) are connected to the Lord through Jesus (the vine); each branch, at one time or another, is bound to be pruned to remove that which endangers or inhibits growth, and/or hinders fruitfulness, and/or to encourage new growth. As a “branch” we may not see the need or understand why we are being pruned, but the gardener is knowledgeable and with great care prunes away that which needs to go for the branches’ (our) best interest.
B. Consider ways you have tried to get guidance, help, or sustenance in false ways in 2016.
Wow…this really got me thinking and not comfortable thoughts. How often do I go to others or reference books for resolution, opinions, and/or guidance rather than the Lord? How often do I look to my self-sufficiency rather than to the omniscient Lord? How often to a wallow in fear rather than consciously trusting the Lord to equip me? How often do I look at “pruning” as something negative and punitive rather than positive and that which will encourage growth?
How could this year be different?
By continuing to focus on and nourish my personal relationship with the Lord. My guide word is quality, i.e., quality time, study, conversation, etc. If it is “less than,” disingenuous, unfocused/distracted, etc. than it is not quality, and it does not serve the Lord, myself, or our relationship.
C. Why is a branch not able to bear fruit unless it is connected to the vine?
If a branch is not connected to the vine it has lost its sustenance. The vine is the provider of nourishment for the branch, without that connection to the vine, the branch will not only not bear fruit, but eventually the branch will wither up and die.
D. What does Jesus add in verse 10, and what are the promises in 10 and 11?
Jesus directs us to keep His commands and be obedient; both are “fruit” of our faithfulness to the Lord and show our connection to “the Vine.” The promises given in v. 10-11 are that through our faithfulness to the Lord in keeping His commands and being obedient to His will, we will remain in His love. The fruit of our faithfulness brings joy to the Lord and joy to ourselves too. Keeping the Lord’s commands and being obedient to His will are in our best interest, it is for our well-being and growth, it is our joy too.
E. What similarities do you see between Psalm 1 and John 15?
Both Psalm 1 and John 15 speak to our relationship…connection…union with the Lord, the importance of being in sync with Him, being in a healthy and genuine relationship. Both speak to times when the “roots” (Psalm 1) and “branches” (John 15) will need to draw deeper into the Lord for additional needed sustenance to remain fruitful and flourishing.
SUSAN ; I just read back about your conversation with your son. I completely understand & get it, as I have the same issue with my kids. Its so frustrating when you know what would help, but they won’t receive it. My daughter has said almost the same word to me…”did you just read that in a book mom?” etc…We just have to trust them in Jesus’ mighty hands & that He will shine thro us even when we feel like such failures. I cant tell u how many times I’ve felt that!!! He is bigger than it all, He loves them more than we do & He will bring them to Himself in surprising & wonderful ways. Good for you to have the courage to speak up, so dont “bang yourself over the head with a stick” as they say in Aussie (where I’m from) !!! 🙂 My daughter struggles with anxiety but she wont come to the Lord for Peace…He will have to lead her in His way & He will lead your son too. love & big hug to you xx
Don’t know if you’ll see this but thank you Jenny! We have another lady here who lives in Australia; her name is Kerryn. She is on-and-off here but that’s neat you are from there, too!