I cannot stop thinking about the verse below. I knew Jesus told us not to cling to our lives, but to surrender them to Him. But there’s much more in this verse to ponder.
If you insist on saving your life, you will lose it. Only those who throw away their lives for my sake and for the sake of the Good News will ever know what it means to really live.
Mark 8:35 (TLB)
Rebecca Pippert wrote her classic, Out of the Saltshaker and Into the World, forty years ago. She says the message will never change, but our approach must. We’re going to watch half of an interview she had concerning her more recent book, Salt, with one of my favorite people, Glen Scrivener, this week. (I’m stopping at mid-way because the audio quality deteriorates.)
Sunday:
1. How did you experience the presence of God this week?
Monday: Pondering Mark 8:35
2. Ponder Mark 8:35.
A. What will happen to those who insist on clinging to their way of life, according to this verse?
B. Besides giving it away for Jesus, it says to give it away for the gospel. What does that mean? Could it be that we must stop being afraid of sharing the gospel both in word and deed?
C. Can you give an example from your life of either surrendering to Jesus or bravely sharing the gospel in word and deed that led to “really living?”
3. In his commentary on Mark, William Henrikson gives the rich fool in Luke 12:16-21 as an example of one who clings to his life. Why is this man called a fool? What do you learn from this about how to miss real life?
4. I’ve heard the illustration that living out the gospel requires both the video and audio. The video is how you live — your compassion, the fruit of the Spirit, how you listen. But the audio is explaining the gospel to others. These are the two wings an airplane needs to fly. Evaluate your video and audio here.
Tuesday: Changing Our Approach In These Times
Today, watch Pippert’s interview up until 11:50.
5. What stood out to you from the opening and why?
6. What had changed in our culture that also means our approach must change?
7. Pippert gave two examples of throwing out a teaser and then dropping it to see if it leads to a question. Share what two examples she gave.
8. I thought her second idea was easier than her first, but she has caused me to think about the first, and be prepared for certain topics — and get your help. Choose two of these topics that might come up in conversation — could you say, “The Bible has something interesting to say about that and then stop? If they said, “What does it say?” Then — if they say “What does it say?” What passage might you bring up? (I’m going to put a suggestion in red, but come up with your own before you look at mine.
A. Politics (Psalm 146:3-4)
B. Life getting harder — more storms, more division… (Matthew 24:7-8)
C. Someone being unkind to you or another… (Romans 12:21)
Wednesday: Incarnational Christianity
Here is when she begins to explain why our method must change from cold-turkey evangelism to incarnational Christianity — entering into the worlds of others and finding common ground
Listen up to 23:09
11. What stood out and why?
12. What was her point with the ant story?
13. How have you entered the worlds of non-Christians? What do you do to befriend non-Christians?
14. How did she suggest bringing them into the presence of Jesus? (I loved this!) How could you do this now with children or grandchildren?
I loved how she asked friends if they had ever read an autobiography of Jesus from the primary source!
15. She said Francis Assisi is often attributed with a quote, and she doesn’t think he said it, but if she did, he’s wrong. What was it?
16. What three things does living out the gospel entail?
Thursday: BLESS
There is a free app I’d like you to get called BLESS: Bless Your Neighbor It gives you a 5 step approach to reaching the unsaved which I would love for us to do together. We’ll take the B today and the L tomorrow.
17. Download the app, fill it out if willing, and let us know your initial thoughts about it.
18. Begin with prayer. Ask the Lord to put the names of a couple of unbelievers in your community and pray for them here.
Friday (And the Weekend) Listen
19. What does Proverbs 20:5 say?
19. Find a way to listen to one of them or to someone else whom the Lord brings across your path. Pippert stresses asking questions, finding common ground. Here are some I often use:
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If you need to start with small talk – -here’s some starters:
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Move from a comment about the weather to: What’s your favorite season and why? (Try to find common ground with ths one.)
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Move from a comment about children to: What have you loved about having kids — or what has been challenging? (Again, try to find common ground.)
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Move from a comment about physical ailments to: What has helped you with this? Or even, may I pray for you?
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Then here are some that have worked so splendidly for me:
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I’d love to hear your story. What is your story?
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What has been something good that’s happened to you recently? Or, if they seem open, what has been something challenging?
I’m looking forward to some exciting reports next week!
114 comments
Sunday:
1. How did you experience the presence of God this week?
First I want to say Dee I am so sorry for the tragedy of yout daughter-in-law losing her father in the plane crash near Kearney. I’m presuming Dr. Mark Meyer was her father. Sudden deaths are very hard in that there is no preparation of heart and mind and the loss causes shock. We have lived that with two of our own family members and most of the women on this blog have suffered great personal loss of close family members. Our hearts ache for your family members.
Last week’s study was extremely rich in personal challenge, reflection and application. The interactions between the friends on this blog were incredibly personal and meaningful. I count it a privilege to be part of it. The stories are rich and varied among us and how God has worked and is still working in our lives. I would love to have commented on all the things I learned and have been impressed with from my sisters here but of course time and space won’t allow that. 🥴 😊
The reflections in last weeks study on the Dallas Willard quote from Dane Ortlund generated rich thoughts and I personally will view that scripture differently for good.
Thanks to everyone for amazing input in your sharing. My experiences with God were deeply enriched.
Thank you Dee for leading us so well.
Thank you so much, Bev — for encouragement and comfort. Yes, Mark Meyer was Julie’s father. It was indeed a shock.
Dee, I am so sorry to hear about the death of Dr. Meyer and his friend, Mr. Magnuson. What a shock that must be for everyone of you! My heartfelt prayers and condolences.
Dee, I’m so sorry for your loss your family is dealing with. I will be praying for all of you.
I need to go back and finish or at least listen and read what was written. My weeks have been crazy filling in at the church office for the secretary whose out from a back procedure. It sounds like it was very good.
Sunday:
1. How did you experience the presence of God this week?
I have experienced God’s presence this week through His Word. He was constantly reminding me that He is with me, walks before me, and that these two things are true even when my feelings are at times contrary. I have shared a prayer request on Dee’s FB page, and the prayers there for me and my husband are exactly what I needed. And thank you, Lord, for this verse today: “I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted.” Job 42:2
God also used a motivational talk by Brené Brown to bring clarity to what I am experiencing and to put a name to it.
And just like Bev, I am very thankful for this blog and for Dee, and how she has led us well and continues to do so.
Personally, I have been learning more about myself, my hang-ups, the shared humanness I have with each of the beautiful souls here, while learning more and more about the matchless love and grace of Jesus. He is the glue that binds us together in love!
Praise God from whom all blessings flow! I can’t thank Him enough!
Bing, your joy is contagious! I am sorry I missed the prayer request, as I just can’t deal with FB anymore. I protect myself (and others!) by staying off. I will pray for you though, because God knows. 🙏🙏🙏
Laura, thank you for your kind words. I understand you’re staying off FB. If it were not for my family in other parts of the world and some very dear friends, I would not be on FB as well. It can be a time thief and a fodder for negativity. I am so happy to hear about your meeting with your friend, Aly.
My heart joins the others in praying for your beloved Julie and her entire family, dear Dee. Such a sudden and tragic loss is heartbreaking and hard to process. I pray for the other family involved, as well. Dr. Meyer sounds like a wonderful man.
Thanks, Patti — for your prayers too for Julie since you know her tender heart.
Sunday:1. How did you experience the presence of God this week? First I would like to echo the thanks to Dee for these studies and prayers for her family on the loss of the family member in the plane crash (so tragic.)
This week I had something to discuss with my husband dealing with our relationship and as we discussed I was able to discover an old lie which caused me to feel offense beyond what was necessary. I praise God for the insight gained on this blog and through the Word which helped me see that while still in our discussion and be able to admit that and turn from it. I thank God that my husband was also able to see the value in discussing the offense I brought to him and able to reconcile our relationship and support me in my struggle with the lie (you see, though the offense was valid and necessary to address, the lie was blowing things out of proportion.) I credit the Lord for being with me in the midst of this. This particular lie, which is that I am not loved, has been with me a long time. I have discovered both through Dee’s study and another one this past year where it originated in my life and now am finally gaining victory over it. Praise the Lord.
Dear sweet Chris, Praise God, For the Lord being with you through this discussion with your husband, and helping you to see the truth, that you are loved.
I agree, I am so grateful for Dee, and for all of you dear friends on this blog, where we can share our joys, sorrows, and be ourselves, without fear of rejection.
Oh Chris! That is so sweet that you had the thought as you were talking to your husband. I love how God meets us in the moment! Blessings to you in your growth away from the lie. 🙏❤️
So transparent you are, Chris.
Praise God for his good working in your life against the lie of not being loved. For much of my life I doubted God’s love for me as an individual and I was a long time grasping the deep love of God for me as his very own. I primarily looked to my husband to fulfill that heart need and he couldn’t and of course that hindered our relationship. I have come to enjoy the reality of God’s deep love and I praise and thank Him for the work of grace in my life.
Chris, what a blessing you’ve been given. Being free from lies brings so much peace.
Chris, thanks for sharing. This is so good when we can be free to share what’s in our hearts here, and our sisters empathize with us. Such a blessing!
Thank you all for your encouragement. It has been a long road and the battle isn’t over but I am on my toes and the enemy is not winning this fight.
1. How did you experience the presence of God this week?
I am so blessed to have my daughter, Dawn and her wonderful husband, Royce, here visiting from Montana for 8 days. We all enjoyed a traditional Labor Day New England clambake, put on by my son in law, Marcus’s, amazing and large Italian family, This is year 99 in this family tradition. It began with a lovely prayer, thank God for the bounty. It was a wonderful experience to watch several men in fireman gear, create this in a pit of coals. They filled the pit with trays of clams, fish, sausage, onions, sausage, sweet potatoes, and more….all covered with seaweed, which flavors the food. I have never experienced this before. It was so fun and interesting to watch. The food was delicious, There were over 80 family members attending, so it was great fun. Thank you Lord for this lovely family.
That sounds like so much fun Patti! I’m glad you enjoyed the clambake. I have not been to one myself although we have lived here 24 years!
Wow Patti! What a wonderful tradition to get to experience. Clam bakes are a foreign thing to our family living in the middle of the country. That is an amazing tradition. So happy you are where you are to get to be part of that. 💕
Patti, sounds like a great time and so glad your daughter and husband are with you for a visit.
Clam bakes in NC are a little different than what you described but oh are they good…everyone should experience them!!
So glad you had a great time. It sounds like fun.
Yum, yum, yum, Patti! We do something like that in the Philippines, but probably more simply. Seaweeds! We have edible ones and they are very delicious!
Wow! Sounds amazing!
1. How did you experience the presence of God this week?
I had a wonderful visit with a former colleague and friend who is a missionary in Africa for the past 15 years. She is the reason I know Jesus so well now and I am thankful for her! She is 10 years younger than I and I am thankful I was humble enough to listen to her way back then. We got caught up with her kids and ours (she knows our middles very well) and talked for over an hour. We could have stayed more time too! Thank You Lord for my friend Aly. Please continue to bless her and her family in their lives.
This is so sweet! I also had a visit from a friend who was a stepping stone from the Lord to my faith in Him, over the summer. Isn’t it amazing how we can pick up those types of friendships right where we left off? Blessings to you and your friend.
These are such sweet kisses from the King, Laura and Chris! What a blessing are those who are the hands and feet of Jesus.
Dee, I just read about the place crash above 👆. Praying for your family. So hard. 🙏🙏🙏
So transparent you are, Chris. And thanks, Laura.
Somehow this comment moved.
2. Ponder Mark 8:35.
A. What will happen to those who insist on clinging to their way of life, according to this verse?
You will lose your life.
B. Besides giving it away for Jesus, it says to give it away for the gospel. What does that mean?
Does it mean for the ways of the Gospel? The ideas of the stories in the book? For example, the disciples each left their families and jobs to follow Jesus, when He said to them, “Follow Me.”
Could it be that we must stop being afraid of sharing the gospel both in word and deed?
I would agree with this thought.
C. Can you give an example from your life of either surrendering to Jesus or bravely sharing the gospel in word and deed that led to “really living?”
I surrendered to God when I had nothing left with dealing with our teen children. I was exhausted and weight lifted was tremendously freeing!
We have surrendered by taking care of our grands. I’m not sure we are “really living” but perhaps they are keeping us young 😉.
I, unfortunately, don’t have a sharing of the Gospel that resulted in really living. But the one time I have shared (I mentioned last week) might have had an impact on me even though it wasn’t successful. She is an atheist and deeply ground in that practice. I was trying to get her to see that her daughter was made just as God wanted her to be made. Her daughter wanted to become a boy at 14. They went to psychologists and ended up agreeing and did hormone chemicals and transformed her into a man. I still see her sometimes (the child who is now early 20’s) at a local coffee shop when she works in the summer. I have caught her eye, and though I disagree, I would smile kindly. I won’t lie, it makes me uncomfortable. These people are so messed up in their heads! The adults I know who have lived this way for a long are not happy people at all. I feel like I have just succumbed to their actions and know I can’t change them, so I just need to show them love and pray for them. I was changed.
Laura, Your story about your friend reminded me of my closest friend Lynda who recently shared with me about all the people God sent into her life to tell her about Jesus when she was a hardened atheist. She said they were individuals who truly loved her and she loved them as well but their words fell on deaf ears. She just couldn’t believe what they were telling her and didn’t reject them but couldn’t accept what they were trying to tell her. At a later time in her life she decided to read the Bible for herself and prove that it was wrong. In doing so she saw that Jesus was either real and Who he said he was or it was meaningless. She told God she would give Him 3 months and see if He really was Who he said he was. She laughs now at the audacity she had to tell God that but he took her at her word and revealed himself clearly to her. So in her case it took meeting God but she believes the prayers of believers were behind her seeking and finding Him. So keep praying for your friends who so desperately need Him. No one is a lost cause for Jesus. Our minister reminded us yesterday in his sermon that love is something we act out and do it. It’s not what the world tells us is all about feelings. So keep smiling at that girl when you see her.
Tears Bev…thank you for the encouragement!
Thank you for sharing this meaningful story of transformation, Bev. We are always planting seeds with our words and our action. Love and compassion can melt hardened hearts, in time and through relationship. Laura, I think your life with your grands is truly living and giving ~ you give all of yourself to give them a wonderful family life and the love of Jesus. You are truly serving the Lord, hands on!
You made me smile again — surrendering with grandchildren == not sure that is really living.
Sunday:
1. How did you experience the presence of God this week? – I’ve been praying for God to give me guidance in a situation that came up and I’m waiting. I feel like I’ve heard back from Him through others confirming what I wrote, and from sermon context, but I’m so hesitant right now in moving forward. Lord, I need you in a big way, I don’t want to be out of your will or make someone stumble. Reveal to me what to do.
Julie, praying for God’s wisdom, guidance and clarity in what to do.
Julie, Just keep waiting on God. He won’t fail you. He will orchestrate the best situation as you continue to trust Him.
Julie, praying for God’s peace while you wait and His leading regarding when and how to move forward in this situation.
Julie, I join the others in praying for peace for you as you wait on God.’s leading. I pray that He will show you His clear path to the answer.
Dee, praying that the God of comfort will wrap His arms around your daughter-in-law and the whole family during this time of loss 🙏❤️
Sunday:
1. How did you experience the presence of God this week?
Oh, how I felt His presence through this verse in Psalm 37:4, “Take delight (spend in enjoyment, take exquisite delight) in the LORD, and He will give you your heart’s desire.”
Quote from Spurgeon…”Do not think first of the desires of your heart, but think first of delighting yourself in your God. If your heart has accepted Him as your Lord, He is yours; So delight in Him and then He will give you the desires of your heart.”
My prayer is that I may seek enjoyment in Him and withdraw my eager desires from the things of this world.
Quote from Spurgeon…”Do not think first of the desires of your heart, but think first of delighting yourself in your God. If your heart has accepted Him as your Lord, He is yours; So delight in Him and then He will give you the desires of your heart.”
What a wonderful quote! 💕
Sharon, what a bold prayer you have here: My prayer is that I may seek enjoyment in Him and withdraw my eager desires from the things of this world. I know nothing in this world ever satisfies. Yet, many times, I seek satisfaction in the world. May I also seek the Giver.
Thanks, Sharon.
What a beautiful post dear Sharon! I am writing down this verse and the quote.
Monday: Pondering Mark 8:35
2. Ponder Mark 8:35.
A. What will happen to those who insist on clinging to their way of life, according to this verse?
—They will lose it.
Nothing in this life is permanent but everything is transitional. We don’t have ultimate control. To try and hang on is to get stuck in old ways and old thinking that become stagnant with time. God is always doing a new thing in our lives for our good and often for our refreshing spiritually which brings new life to our souls.
B. Besides giving it away for Jesus, it says to give it away for the gospel. What does that mean? Could it be that we must stop being afraid of sharing the gospel both in word and deed?
—It says for Jesus’s sake and the sake of the Gospel. I think that means for the sake or recognition of His glory. Our goal should always be to glorify the Lord and his message and not our own lives. Paul Tripp says we are glory thieves. Our words and our deeds always reveal what is most important to us and are the measure of how we live our lives. We either lives for self or live for Him.
C. Can you give an example from your life of either surrendering to Jesus or bravely sharing the gospel in word and deed that led to “really living?”
—One Sunday morning over 50 years ago at the end a church service in Kearney the pastor had been doing a series of sermons from the Gospel of John and God was stirring my heart. He gave an alter call for anyone wanting to surrender to Jesus for salvation or a recommitment of their lives to come forward. I was one of a group of people who responded. It is extremely clear in my mind yet today that I was giving control of my life and of my husband and my marriage in particular to Jesus. I experienced a real peace in that decision and even though I have failed on my part at times to live it out well it has always been a touchstone for me personally when I did business with God and I truly meant it. The beauty is that after all these many years later I can say the God has not failed me once on his part to be what I have needed and my “really living” is completely tied to my walk with Him. It is truly always the richness of the Gospel that brings the deepest joys.
3. In his commentary on Mark, William Henrikson gives the rich fool in Luke 12:16-21 as an example of one who clings to his life. Why is this man called a fool? What do you learn from this about how to miss real life?
—He was a fool because he was satisfied in himself and his wealth thinking it was all the security he needed. He was completely forgetting God who is sovereign over life and death and no one has the guarantee of one more breath of life but from God. Material wealth is empty but true riches are found in a close personal relationship to God because of Jesus and the Gospel.
4. I’ve heard the illustration that living out the gospel requires both the video and audio. The video is how you live — your compassion, the fruit of the Spirit, how you listen. But the audio is explaining the gospel to others. These are the two wings an airplane needs to fly. Evaluate your video and audio here.
—To evaluate my my video and audio is to measure it against a standard I can’t attain. I will always come up short in this flesh but I am not discouraged because God keeps pouring his grace into my life and has begun a good work and will accomplish that work. I am being conformed to the image of Christ all because of the grace of God who saved me by the power of his Gospel. My desire is to let His living water flow through me to others so that my video and audio is worthy of being seen and heard.
Love all of this Bev! Great post with so much to ponder on.
Beautiful testimony.
I so agree with Julie and Dee. What a beautiful testimony! Thank you, dear Bev! My daughter and I were just talking about this very subject! So good!
Monday: Pondering Mark 8:35
2. Ponder Mark 8:35.
A. What will happen to those who insist on clinging to their way of life, according to this verse? – They will lose their life.
B. Besides giving it away for Jesus, it says to give it away for the gospel. What does that mean? Could it be that we must stop being afraid of sharing the gospel both in word and deed? – I think giving it up for the gospel means to share what we know, or even maybe even how we interpret the scripture. It may not be what others think, but I think putting it out there will bring about questions and discussions. I do agree it means we should stop being afraid to share.
C. Can you give an example from your life of either surrendering to Jesus or bravely sharing the gospel in word and deed that led to “really living?” – The more I grow in my relationship with Jesus, the more I’m releasing my total, complete, life to Him. I can feel more peace in my life when circumstances come my way that definitely should bring fear with it. But I’m calmer and get back to focusing on God’s Word and His promises much faster in these situations.
3. In his commentary on Mark, William Henrikson gives the rich fool in Luke 12:16-21 as an example of one who clings to his life. Why is this man called a fool? What do you learn from this about how to miss real life? – This man worked hard to have more than he needed for nothing. He didn’t even get to enjoy it, his life was taken that night. When we work to have abundance, we miss the here and now that God has placed before us. We miss the people and things he placed before us that day to enjoy, because we are too busy trying to be God and provide what is not needed.
4. I’ve heard the illustration that living out the gospel requires both the video and audio. The video is how you live — your compassion, the fruit of the Spirit, how you listen. But the audio is explaining the gospel to others. These are the two wings an airplane needs to fly. Evaluate your video and audio here. – I’m much better with the video version of my living out the gospel. The audio part needs clearer sound. I hold back; I listen to the enemy that tells me I’m not qualified to speak it out. I need to remove that feedback from my audio version so others can hear the gospel.
Will pray for the Lord to overcome those fears. I hope Pippert will help you just to be your sweet self, Julie.
Tuesday: Changing Our Approach In These Times
Today, watch Pippert’s interview up until 11:50.
5. What stood out to you from the opening and why? – That she was in her 20’s and thought this book was needed. Amazing.
6. What had changed in our culture that also means our approach must change? – Our world has changed so we need to line up with what is going on now. The absolute truth has collapsed in our current world. Whatever is our preference is what goes today. I think what she is saying is that we need to align our responses up to their questions, in a way they will continue to listen, but not go against scripture. We need to get them to think that what they are asking really doesn’t make sense. We need to guide them to the Bible and what God says and make them understand it is not our opinion but God’s words.
7. Pippert gave two examples of throwing out a teaser and then dropping it to see if it leads to a question. Share what two examples she gave. – Talking about a specific issue, mention what Jesus has to say about it. Mention you weren’t raised in faith but still think we know God.
8. I thought her second idea was easier than her first, but she has caused me to think about the first, and be prepared for certain topics — and get your help. Choose two of these topics that might come up in conversation — could you say, “The Bible has something interesting to say about that and then stop? If they said, “What does it say?” Then — if they say “What does it say?” What passage might you bring up? (I’m going to put a suggestion in red, but come up with your own before you look at mine.
A. Politics (Psalm 146:3-4)
B. Life getting harder — more storms, more division… (Matthew 24:7-8)
* What comes to mind for me is John 16:33 “I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. You will have suffering in this world. Be courageous! I have conquered the world.” God has told us we will have things come up against us in this world, but we aren’t to fear because He will be with us through them all. He has overcome them all.
C. Someone being unkind to you or another… (Romans 12:21)
* This one is something I just talked about with my grandson. To speak kindly to people, not to argue. What I mentioned to Logan was Provers 16:24 “Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” But I also like Ephesians 4:29 “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” What we say and how we say it matters so much.
Monday: Pondering Mark 8:35
2. Ponder Mark 8:35.
A. What will happen to those who insist on clinging to their way of life, according to this verse?
They will lose it.
B. Besides giving it away for Jesus, it says to give it away for the gospel. What does that mean? Could it be that we must stop being afraid of sharing the gospel both in word and deed?
The greatest gift we have been given is the gospel, the promise of eternal life in Jesus. We honor Him by giving our lives away for others and for Him in gratitude.
C. Can you give an example from your life of either surrendering to Jesus or bravely sharing the gospel in word and deed that led to “really living?”
I am not sure I understand “really living”. Unless it is a life that matters to God. Anything else is just for worldly satisfaction, and I don’t think that is “really living”. So many people have wealth, power, and success, but they are lonely and purposeless. “Really living” is living for Jesus.
3. In his commentary on Mark, William Henrikson gives the rich fool in Luke 12:16-21 as an example of one who clings to his life. Why is this man called a fool? What do you learn from this about how to miss real life?
A fool is somebody who is unwise or imprudent, somebody who has been deceived and misled. This rich fool believed that he had all the time in the world to collect wealth, wasting his time on what he ended up losing.
Today, I was busy at home preparing for a trip, and time got away from me! Although I felt like it should have been noon only, when I checked the clock, it was already 2:30! It made me ponder this verse from Mark: Am I clinging to this life or giving it away for Jesus! It is a sobering thought!
4. I’ve heard the illustration that living out the gospel requires both the video and audio. The video is how you live — your compassion, the fruit of the Spirit, how you listen. But the audio is explaining the gospel to others. These are the two wings an airplane needs to fly. Evaluate your video and audio here.
I believe my video is on autopilot response-because works are visible, I gravitate toward performance and often have to come before the Lord to “open the eyes of my heart so I can see Him, and reflect Him in my life. I need help with the audio part. Fear of rejection, feelings of inadequacy contribute to my lack in this area.
Your life radiates love – so praying for the Lord to help you overcome those fears.
Bing, your entire post is filled with sweet wisdom. I love your answer to “C”, as it is so true in our world right now, even in Christian communities. Nothing is richer than a relationship that is God centered. I join Dee in praying for you to overcome your fears. In you, I see a woman of God, in who you are, how you live your life and your deep love of God and your care for others.
3. In his commentary on Mark, William Henrikson gives the rich fool in Luke 12:16-21 as an example of one who clings to his life. Why is this man called a fool? What do you learn from this about how to miss real life?
He is storing up treasure here on Earth and ignoring his spiritual life. If he dies tonight then who will enjoy all his wealth? Real life is learning what God wants us to know and do. Loving each other and caring for others makes our lives complete. It’s about relationships.
4. I’ve heard the illustration that living out the gospel requires both the video and audio. The video is how you live — your compassion, the fruit of the Spirit, how you listen. But the audio is explaining the gospel to others. These are the two wings an airplane needs to fly. Evaluate your video and audio here.
To be honest, I’m not very good at either! I do try to live out the Word, but I don’t always show it outwardly. The audio thing is stressful for me. I was always better at dancing it than saying it. I stumble over my words.
Laura, You are so right it is all about relationships. And it all starts with our relationship with Jesus.
I too stumble over my words. Writing out my thoughts are so much easier for me than my speaking them.
Good point about writing out your words. I’m the same way 😉. However, “in the moment” happens, and that’s where I flubber! Others are so much better at it.
Tuesday: Changing Our Approach In These Times
Today, watch Pippert’s interview up until 11:50.
5. What stood out to you from the opening and why?
—Because of my age I have lived through these changes in our world that she spoke about. Drastic changes in our culture and seeing the issue of no absolute truth that now permeates our world and it’s far reaching effects in how people approach life. So we have to stop and take notice of how we approach the people in our culture. There was a time when there was a mindset in the church of let the “professionals” do the work of evangelizing but her point is good to be reminded and hear that the command to go and share the Gospel is given to absolutely everyone.
It was also good to be reminded that spiritual hunger is everywhere in everyone. The conversations are out there to be had with spiritually hungry people.
This quote by her is so good to remember.
“Secularism cannot address the deepest needs of human experience.”
I think I personally have been hampered by the methodologies of evangelism and it has kept me from a more natural approach to sharing Jesus with people. I wasn’t afraid to do it. I just wasn’t left brained enough to check off all the boxes with the right approach, the right presentation, the right verses given at the right time and the right results achieved. The need to pray and let the Holy Spirit lead is so important.
6. What had changed in our culture that also means our approach must change?
—The prevalent belief that there is no absolute truth.
7. Pippert gave two examples of throwing out a teaser and then dropping it to see if it leads to a question. Share what two examples she gave.
—Ask questions first and find out what are their longings and needs. Be compassionate. Arouse their curiosity.
-Throw out God comments and then drop it or wait for responses but don’t preach.
8. I thought her second idea was easier than her first, but she has caused me to think about the first, and be prepared for certain topics — and get your help. Choose two of these topics that might come up in conversation
A. Politics (Psalm 146:3-4)
—“When the godly are in authority, the people rejoice. But when the wicked are in power, they groan.”
Proverbs 29:2 NLT
B. Life getting harder — more storms, more division… (Matthew 24:7-8)
—“Then he added, “Nation will go to war against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be great earthquakes, and there will be famines and plagues in many lands, and there will be terrifying things and great miraculous signs from heaven.”
Luke 21:10-11 NLT
2. Ponder Mark 8:35.
A. What will happen to those who insist on clinging to their way of life, according to this verse? Whoever would cling to a worldly life or life here on earth, will lose their eternal life is the way I read this verse.
B. Besides giving it away for Jesus, it says to give it away for the gospel. What does that mean? Could it be that we must stop being afraid of sharing the gospel both in word and deed? We are called to share the gospel and live it out, so this makes sense to me.
C. Can you give an example from your life of either surrendering to Jesus or bravely sharing the gospel in word and deed that led to “really living?” I believe in a way what I did in my discussion with my husband was surrendering to Jesus. I was upset about a perceived offense to me, and to be sure it was an offense. However, I was more upset about not feeling loved and that was not what the offense was about. The bigger concern about the offense lies between those offending and the Lord. So now that I have removed the lie, I can see the true need of the offenders, which is to reconcile to the Lord and not to me.
3. In his commentary on Mark, William Henrikson gives the rich fool in Luke 12:16-21 as an example of one who clings to his life. Why is this man called a fool? What do you learn from this about how to miss real life? Oh, this hurts. I do concern myself with what is stored up in my barns! Last week, I believe, I shared about how we had planned to give some money to a person in need and how I am always happy to do this, but get nervous about the bank account getting low. And that is just it-me clinging to this life and not trusting the Lord, when he always rebuilds our accounts, providing for us each and every day. I remember after Rich Mullins died (Christian music artist), there was not a great source of wealth left behind. He had instructed his accountant to give away anything above an average laborers wage to charity.
4. I’ve heard the illustration that living out the gospel requires both the video and audio. The video is how you live — your compassion, the fruit of the Spirit, how you listen. But the audio is explaining the gospel to others. These are the two wings an airplane needs to fly. Evaluate your video and audio here. I for sure need work! I certainly have compassion but maybe not what I should for those that are closest to me. Patience can run thin for those I live with, etc. I listened to Elizabeth Elliot recently and she said after getting upset with her husband and building a whole case against him in her head, she read I Corinthians 13 and repented of her anger and lack of love for her husband. I need to practice this. As far as the audio goes, I think the more I understand the gospel for myself, the more I will be able to share with others. The more I know of the Lord’s love for me, the more I can genuinely tell others of His love for them. I am definitely still a work in progress. My daughter recently attended a unique counseling session at a ministry local to us. She shared that the most tears came during the part where she read verses about her identity with Christ and how much she was loved. She realized this was an area she had believed lies-hmm. Perhaps my own lack of feeling loved in this way was passed onto her? I am always hearing my adopted son looking for reassurance that he is loved. Maybe I will focus on verses which validate our identity in Christ this school year. My curriculum plan is so fluid this year-lol. I think this is good as I am seeking answer to my prayer in Ephesians 1:18-19 and scripture about identity in Christ definitely fits this! I am not used to walking so loosely with my curriculum, but I it makes sense to me to follow the Lord’s leading each day even though I really want to see further down the road.
I am doing silent study this week, but reading the blog daily. I love your thoughtful post, Chris. Our identity in Christ is so important. I am so thankful for all that I learn from each of you and it helps me to see my needs in my living out the audio and video of the gospel. My daughter and her husband are visiting for 8 days from Montana and this was part of our family time discussion last night. It can be most challenging to do this in the family, because we all know each other’s weaknesses…and we need to be sensitive with our words to one another. Perfect verses from. Ephesians 1:18-19…love all of Ephesians 1!
Monday: Pondering Mark 8:35
2. Ponder Mark 8:35.
A. What will happen to those who insist on clinging to their way of life, according to this verse?
They will lose it.
B. Besides giving it away for Jesus, it says to give it away for the gospel. What does that mean? Could it be that we must stop being afraid of sharing the gospel both in word and deed?
The Gospel is a story of love and sacrifice. When I think of what Jesus gave up because of His great love for me, shouldn’t I in turn share that with others out of love for Him and them sacrificially?
C. Can you give an example from your life of either surrendering to Jesus or bravely sharing the gospel in word and deed that led to “really living?”
There is a situation that happened in our church that I surrendered to Jesus which was very freeing and allowed me to move on. Nothing changed in the situation but Jesus changed my heart.
3. In his commentary on Mark, William Henrikson gives the rich fool in Luke 12:16-21 as an example of one who clings to his life. Why is this man called a fool? What do you learn from this about how to miss real life?
If we insist on clinging to our way of life then our identity is what we chose to cling to, what we gain in this world, what will give us self worth/satisfaction according to the worlds definition. These things are only temporary but if our identity is in Christ then what we do for Him is for eternity.
4. I’ve heard the illustration that living out the gospel requires both the video and audio. The video is how you live — your compassion, the fruit of the Spirit, how you listen. But the audio is explaining the gospel to others. These are the two wings an airplane needs to fly. Evaluate your video and audio here.
This illustration made my life feel like an airplane that can’t even get off the ground. 🤦🏻♀️ I tend to be more video than audio but both could use some maintenance.
These verses came to mind in reading this question…
“Pray that I will proclaim this message as clearly as I should. Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.”
Colossians 4:4-6 NLT
I love your answers here Sharon. I’m realizing I went off on all sorts of rabbit trails 🤪- I really like your Colossians verse.
Sharon, I love the Colossians verses too! And I love Chris’s rabbit trails! Iron sharpens iron!
Hello Dee Hunny!
So glad to see you, Becky. Everyone — I am so hoping we can keep Becky. She is wonderful. You may remember her story from Carpet One a few years ago. She’s a fairly new Christian with some big challenges and she needs fellowship.
Welcome Becky! I look forward to getting to know you better and I hope that you find this a place where you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and asking questions.
Welcome, Becky!
Hi Becky! Welcome to our little corner. Dee is the best at getting to our hearts. You will learn a lot and grow in Christ here.
Welcome Becky!
Hi Becky, We look forward to hearing more from you. 😊
Welcome dear Becky! This is a wonderful and safe place to meet others who love and follow Jesus. We share our challenges, joys and sorrows, safely with each other. We pray for, encourage and uphold one another. Please know you are loved and cared for here.
1. How did you experience the presence of God this week? I’ve felt the love of Christ through the thoughtful acts of kindness from my daughters-in-law as they visited me several times and made meals for my husband and I to enjoy. It is the answer to prayers that I had years ago when my sons were young, that they would find Christian women who I could share a relationship with that was filled with mutual kindness and respect. I have been very blessed in that area.
That is so sweet Dawn! I’m so glad you received an answer to prayer from a long time ago.
Dawn when is the surgery? How are you? I have been praying.
Awe. So nice to have that answered prayer. Glad you are being well cared for in recovery.
What a sweet blessing to have such good care from your daughters in law. Hope your recovery continues to go well.
2. Ponder Mark 8:35.
A. What will happen to those who insist on clinging to their way of life, according to this verse? They will ultimately lose their life.
B. Besides giving it away for Jesus, it says to give it away for the gospel. What does that mean? Could it be that we must stop being afraid of sharing the gospel both in word and deed? Yes, I believe so. It’s one thing to give your life to Jesus, that is a benefit to you. If you give your life to the gospel you are giving your life to making sure that others know of Christ’s salvation.
C. Can you give an example from your life of either surrendering to Jesus or bravely sharing the gospel in word and deed that led to “really living?” I’ve had to do it with my family in making choices that weren’t always popular with people in my extended family, but it gave me the opportunity to explain why my husband and I made the choices that we did. And hopefully we were able to explain it with love and conviction.
3. In his commentary on Mark, William Henrikson gives the rich fool in Luke 12:16-21 as an example of one who clings to his life. Why is this man called a fool? What do you learn from this about how to miss real life? He was a fool for clinging to things of this earth. We are only truly living when we are living for Christ.
4. I’ve heard the illustration that living out the gospel requires both the video and audio. The video is how you live — your compassion, the fruit of the Spirit, how you listen. But the audio is explaining the gospel to others. These are the two wings an airplane needs to fly. Evaluate your video and audio here. I have to admit that my audio is lacking.
I love the distinction you make in your answer to B.
I did too!
Amen to Chris and Dee.💕
Ladies, would you please pray for my daughter-in-law’s sister Debbie. She had a lump on her arm that turns out to be leiomyosarcoma, a very aggressive form of cancer. It has already spread to her lungs. She is a strong Christian and is facing this with the faith that God knows what He’s doing and has a purpose in all of this.
Praying for this woman now. Thankful she knows the Lord.🙏🙏🙏
Oh, Dawn, such a tough diagnosis. I am sorry and will pray for the amazing witness she will be for the Lord. Psalm 103:2-4.
Oh Lord, please have mercy on Debbie. Thank You for her faith. In Your Name I pray.
Dawn, Will pray for Debbie. Such a tough diagnosis. Praying God will undertake for her.
How are you feeling Dawn since your surgery? I have continued to pray for your recovery. We have missed you here. 💕
I’m doing pretty well, Bev. The recovery is pretty easy compared to when I had shoulder surgery.
Oh, Dawn, I will be praying for Debbie. Praying that she will continue to be a beacon for Jesus.
Dear Lord, We praise and thank you for you faithfulness and watchcare of Debbie. Lord, give her the strength and grace she needs right now. Give her medical team wisdom in the treatment of her cancer. Holy Spirit surround her with your love and guide her friends and family to give her any support needed. As she trust in You, Lord, just cover her with your love and protection, In Jesus name, amen
5. What stood out to you from the opening and why?
I thought it was wrong that the leaders instructed her (and others) to move to the next person if they weren’t successful with the person to whom they evangelized. I would think they would want all souls to be saved, even though initial contact was not (seemingly) successful. She thought it was wrong also.
Also, her ant story! Okay, I listened a bit beyond. She talks about Jesus becoming one of us to show us how it is done. I was actually watching ants a few weeks ago too! So weird. I happened upon them on my driveway, noticing how there were these larger ants carrying “stuff.” Others near them were not. There a was an entire line of these ants with the large “supplies.” I thought they would go to a bed nearby in the dirt. But no! They traversed all the way into the woods. I was impressed with their ability to carry their load, which was almost as large as their own bodies! Maybe I’m going crazy?! Studying ants? Haha!
6. What had changed in our culture that also means our approach must change?
– collapse of absolute truth
– respect and understanding for authority
– cafeteria style of philosophy of life
– sexual revolution
7. Pippert gave two examples of throwing out a teaser and then dropping it to see if it leads to a question. Share what two examples she gave.
1 – What are their longings? Jesus was her model from the Gospels. He asked questions. Where were they? What were their obstacles to faith? He roused their curiosity.
2 – “You know, Jesus has the most intriguing thing to say about that (issue they were talking about),” a hook to get people to ask, “What did He do?”
Good answers, Laura.
Wednesday: Incarnational Christianity
Here is when she begins to explain why our method must change from cold-turkey evangelism to incarnational Christianity — entering into the worlds of others and finding common ground
Listen up to 23:09
11. What stood out and why?
—Lots of things stood out but I found her own story of how she came to Christ fascinating. She was searching for answers and it was CS Lewis’s little book “Mere Christianity” that caused her to realize that Christianity was a religion of revelation and how God came down to us and made Himself known to us through Jesus. Then she was prompted to find a Bible and read it.
12. What was her point with the ant story?
—The way to connect with the ants would be to become an ant and live among them as one of them.
13. How have you entered the worlds of non-Christians? What do you do to befriend non-Christians?
—We rub shoulders with most of our unbelieving neighbors but sadly we are often “Nebraska nice” and we don’t get “in their business” up close and personal in conversation. We stay on safe subjects. We try to be friendly and engage with the people in our community as we eat in the few small restaurants we have and do business with them at the bank and in the small town hardware and grocery stores.
I think a renewed challenge for Terry and I are to get more active again in having people into our home. It is a safe place to visit and connect in more personal ways with other people.
14. How did she suggest bringing them into the presence of Jesus? (I loved this!) How could you do this now with children or grandchildren?
—We make it too hard. There is no formula. And God is the Evangelist. We need to realize and acknowledge that we are weak and inadequate. She pointed out three things that keep us from effectively bringing people to Jesus.
-We don’t realize God is the great Evangelist. Not us. We are inadequate and made to depend on God.
-We don’t lean on the power of the HS. Using a formula instead of letting the Spirit lead.
-We as a culture redefine the Gospel. We have emphasized that living the Gospel is more important and effective than speaking about Jesus.
15. She said Francis Assisi is often attributed with a quote, and she doesn’t think he said it, but if she did, he’s wrong. What was it?
—“Preach the Gospel and if necessary use words.”
16. What three things does living out the gospel entail?
—She says Biblical understanding of evangelism is threefold.
Who we are
What we do
What we say
Each of these things contribute to how we evangelize because our lives speak to who we are by what we do and what we say. Verbal is definitely part of it.
Short on time this week. I have listened to the video and agree with Laura and Bev’s answers. I looked at the app and am not real sure why addresses need to be entered and am not feeling comfortable with that? Anyone else? Maybe it shouldn’t matter? Also, I live in a rural area and don’t have natural contact with most neighbors. We do have an initiative to bless and pray for the neighbors we do have contact with and are working to reach others through neighborhood gatherings. Please let me know if any of you find the app useful. Thanks.
I love how carefully you listened, Bev, and how you are going to be intentional about reaching out. I’ll be intrigued to see who He opens your eyes to reach out to.
Okay. A little more time this morning and did investigate the app again. Now I understand we just enter our own address and the app creates a map of all our neighbors with names/addresses. This is actually so helpful! We have a hayride planned in October to reach out to neighbors and this will give me specific names to pray for as we plan. I am really liking the specific scripture based prayer given in the app and the ability to keep track of notes, etc in the app-a great time saver. As I plan, I feel the usual nervousness about approaching people I don’t know and I am praying for the Lord to give peace as he knows the plan for each neighbor. One of the neighbors on my first list of 5 names to pray for in the app is my sweet friend who started our neighborhood gatherings. I’m excited to pray for more connections and see what happens.
Thursday: BLESS
17. Download the app, fill it out if willing, and let us know your initial thoughts about it.
—It looks like a good tool for starting at square one where I live praying for and being mindful daily of the neighbors on my street. It was kind of amazing to see the names of each of the neighbors on my street come up a the list. These are people I know personally or know about them. This is a small town and I can put faces on every one of these names.
I like the fact it highlights prayer first because I believe that is a crucial part of any work of God.
I loved the Shane and Shane music video “See the Light of the World”
18. Begin with prayer. Ask the Lord to put the names of a couple of unbelievers in your community and pray for them here.
Dan & Sue Hawke / next door neighbors.
Wonderful!
This has been a particularly difficult week for me. Preparing for court was hard, court itself was hard, and now I am randomly waking up at all hours of the night. We continue to have to go back; now Dec 2. We have been living this nightmare for a long time now! I don’t know how I am staying the least bit on top of my work at school. Only God. He is good. He has given me super human strength. Thank You Jesus. All remains the same for now.
8. I thought her second idea was easier than her first, but she has caused me to think about the first, and be prepared for certain topics — and get your help. Choose two of these topics that might come up in conversation — could you say, “The Bible has something interesting to say about that and then stop? If they said, “What does it say?” Then — if they say “What does it say?” What passage might you bring up? (I’m going to put a suggestion in red, but come up with your own before you look at mine.
A. Politics (Psalm 146:3-4)
“Remind the believers to submit to the government and its officers. They should be obedient, always ready to do what is good.”
Titus 3:1 NLT
B. Life getting harder — more storms, more division… (Matthew 24:7-8)
““Because you have obeyed my command to persevere, I will protect you from the great time of testing that will come upon the whole world to test those who belong to this world. I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take away your crown.”
Revelation 3:10-11 NLT
C. Someone being unkind to you or another… (Romans 12:21)
“Bless those who curse you. Pray for those who hurt you. If someone slaps you on one cheek, offer the other cheek also. If someone demands your coat, offer your shirt also. Give to anyone who asks; and when things are taken away from you, don’t try to get them back. Do to others as you would like them to do to you.”
Luke 6:28-31 NLT
Laura, I’m sorry the court issue was not resolve, and I will continue to pray for you and your family.
Laura, I love your verses. I’m sorry court was hard and it seems such a long battle. Praying for courage and strength for your family. May the Lord continue to grant you grace and favor. My heart is broken for you. Thankful the Lord has given you strength thus far.
Laura, I continue to pray for you and your family, as you have to continue this difficult nightmare. My heart aches for all of you. May God continues to give you strength, encouragement, wisdom and grace. I pray for you to sense the nearness of God and His support, daily.
Laura, When I read that court has pushed the decision for some kind of resolve down the road again I was struck by the thought God is at work in some unknown way here. I have the sense He is going to do something amazing for you when this all shakes out. He is that kind of God and your situation has been brought before Him in prayer by many so we know He hears our pleas and He isn’t slow to answer. He is answering right now in ways we don’t see. Even the delay is in God’s hands. It is obvious now this is a situation that a quick answer would not simply resolve the problems. And it always benefits us to wait on God. He says that very thing in his Word over and over. So please don’t fret and be encouraged that God has got this for you! And you are much loved and prayed for. 💕
I agree with this!
Thank you all! Your words encourage me so. I am exhausted with school. I am saddened to think of my daughter and her aloneness.
Oh so frustrating, Laura.I’m so sorry.
11. What stood out and why? Her passion for reaching out to unbelievers and making a connection. I need to develop this more in my life.
12. What was her point with the ant story? That the ants are totally clueless about the existence of anything beyond their life. And if she wanted to relate to the ants, she would have to become an ant herself.
13. How have you entered the worlds of non-Christians? What do you do to befriend non-Christians? Most of the people that I interact with at work are non-Christians or so it appears. I’m afraid that I am not very good at approaching the gospel with them. I like how Rebecca was saying that we need to bring others into the presence of Jesus. That is the essence of the gospel. He is so different than what most people think.
15. She said Francis Assisi is often attributed with a quote, and she doesn’t think he said it, but if she did, he’s wrong. What was it? Preach the gospel, and if necessary, use words.
16. What three things does living out the gospel entail? Who we are. What we do. What we think.
Thursday:
17. Download the app, fill it out if willing, and let us know your initial thoughts about it. I do like the app, but there it is not completely accurate. It has my address correct but then another neighbor labeled with my name and some new homes are not listed that are a year old (which are my kids, so I know them!) and a neighbor who just passed away a month ago is on my list-but of course the app wouldn’t know this. Just things to consider. I would recommend confirming names/addresses.
18. Begin with prayer. Ask the Lord to put the names of a couple of unbelievers in your community and pray for them here. I’m praying for the first 5 the app gave me.
Friday (And the Weekend) Listen
19. What does Proverbs 20:5 say? The purpose in a man’s heart is like deep water, but a man of understanding will draw it out. I found this in MacLaren’s commentary on Bible Hub: And there would be more happy homes if parents and children tried to understand one another. We seldom dislike a man when we come to know him thoroughly. We cannot help him till we do.-this is a piece of “shrewd common sense”, as the commentary says.
19. Find a way to listen to one of them or to someone else whom the Lord brings across your path. Pippert stresses asking questions, finding common ground.
I love the examples of trying to find common ground and will look for an opportunity. It occurs to me that weekends are times of getting things done around the farm/house and we don’t really see neighbors. We may need to make a point of inviting someone over or stopping to say hello, unless the Lord actually brings someone to us. Just having this on my mind and looking for opportunity will keep me from missing one.
Quick question for all of you on prayer: as I have shared with some family members my interest in this app and praying for neighbors, a couple of responses I have gotten are along the lines of overwhelm. I’m finding people are overwhelmed with the number of prayer requests they have and how to keep up with that. The idea of beginning to pray for 50 neighbors seems like too much when barely able to keep up with requests from family, church, work and friends. Anyone else? Is there a method to feel more organized or equipped for this?
11. What stood out and why?
I am interested in her reading “Mere Christianity” and that being the catapult for her digging deeper. I know there are chalk drawings on YouTube that are really inspiring of that text. I wonder if I could use those to book someone like she did? I have the book here somewhere, but it seems that people are t reading as they used to so maybe the story drawings would be good?
12. What was her point with the ant story?
I spoke of the ants above 👆. Here point was that God came down to be with us! Wow.
13. How have you entered the worlds of non-Christians? What do you do to befriend non-Christians?
I haven’t purposely been drawn to non-Christians. I am around many every day at school. Teachers and students alike. I try to be a friendly person, making jokes and small talk. I see ladies at the Pilates studio but I don’t know any at this point. I don’t purposely go out of my way to befriend these days because my life is chaotic and there is no extra time!
I’m thinking that we Christians need to be reminded of these things too. We lose hope and forget our relationship with Jesus. It’s so easy to get sucked into the worldly life. I have a former church member that I have recently connected with, unexpectantly, and boy is her family suffering right now. I know she is a strong believer, but, I think she needs reminding. Please pray for Lori and her two adult sons in wheelchairs due to Duchenes (a subset of muscular dystrophy).
14. How did she suggest bringing them into the presence of Jesus? (I loved this!) How could you do this now with children or grandchildren?
Are you referring to the ant story? To tell that to others? Or just one story of Jesus? The Seeker Bible study. I am going to check out the online study and yes, I could do it with my grands.
I loved how she asked friends if they had ever read an autobiography of Jesus from the primary source!
Praying now for your friend, Lori. Psalm 10: Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers them out of them all.
15. She said Francis Assisi is often attributed with a quote, and she doesn’t think he said it, but if she did, he’s wrong. What was it?
“Preach the Gospel and if necessary use words.”
16. What three things does living out the gospel entail?
Who we are, what we do, and what we say. She believes we need to speak more. We are weak.
17. Download the app, fill it out if willing, and let us know your initial thoughts about it.
I downloaded it and prayed for my first five. I’m not sure the people really still live there 🤷🏻♀️. This is mainly because I don’t know some of them.
18. Begin with prayer. Ask the Lord to put the names of a couple of unbelievers in your community and pray for them here.
Dear Lord, Thank you for giving us prayer to help each other through this bumpy life. I am fairly certain that my side neighbors do not have a relationship with You. Help me to find a way to engage them in conversation about their faith. Put another in my path who You believe would benefit from my talking with them. Help me to have the perfect conversation that allows me to eventually share You with them. Amen.
19. What does Proverbs 20:5 say?
“Though good advice lies deep within the heart, a person with understanding will draw it out.”
Proverbs 20:5 NLT
I have missed commenting here as I am at a convention in Phoenix. Read through the comments and was blessed as always! Looking forward to getting back today or tomorrow. We fly home today at 1210 Mountain Time.