Week 6 of the first 8 chapters of Luke from the Good Morning Girls study. *My notes*
Monday - Week 6
Scripture
Luke 6:1-11 (Luke 6:9&10)
9 Then Jesus said to them, “I ask you, which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to destroy it?”
10 He looked around at them all, and then said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He did so, and his hand was completely restored.
Observations
* Jesus wanted to make sure everyone saw.
* Jesus asked, should we leave someone helpless or stranded just because it's a day of rest.
* If someone is in need of help and we do not help them would this be considered - evil/destroying life?
Application
I'm reminded of the story of the good Samaritan.
Luke 10:30-37
30 In reply Jesus said: “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. 31 A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. 32 So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33 But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. 34 He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. 35 The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.’
36 “Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?”
37 The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.”
Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise.”
So in Luke 6, Jesus didn't want people to use the Sabbath as an excuse not to help others. If we have the opportunity to help someone, even if they don't ask us for help, we need to view it as God sending them to us. Not as an inconvenience. Everyone is busy but if 10 minutes of kindness could save a person from their agony, from their regrets, from feeling alone or hungry, then our 10 minutes could mean an eternity of salvation to them. Because when we show compassion and love to others we are showing them our Lord, who is Love.
Tuesday - Week 6
Scripture Luke 6:12-26 (Luke 6:20-23)
20 Looking at his disciples, he said:
“Blessed are you who are poor,
for yours is the kingdom of God.
21 Blessed are you who hunger now,
for you will be satisfied.
Blessed are you who weep now,
for you will laugh.
22 Blessed are you when people hate you,
when they exclude you and insult you
and reject your name as evil,
because of the Son of Man.
23 “Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, because great is your reward in heaven. For that is how their ancestors treated the prophets.
Observations
* Jesus talking to the disciples said, Blessed are those that are poor, hungry, weep, and are hated.
* Rejoice if this is you.
Application
Those who are "poor" - lowly, humble. Knowing that nothing I posses is more valuable than my salvation. And anything I have is really not mine and it can be taken from me at any time.
Now a promise - I will see the kingdom of God. Woo hoo! Yay!
Those who "hunger now" - always needing to or desiring to be filled up with the Holy Spirit.
Now a promise - If this is what I always desire, to be filled with the Holy Spirit, I will be filled. I will be satisfied. God created us to hunger for Him yet often times we put other things in His place so we are never satisfied because only He can satisfy that hunger.
Those who "weep now" - worry about the things/circumstance. The might happen, could happen, should have happened things. God's got it taken care of!
A promise - you will laugh at how you worried. haha silly me! God know's what He's doing!
When people hate, exclude, insult and reject your name as evil because of Christ - Can't figure out why people say the things they do to you? It is because of Christ is in you. When it says "reject your name as evil" I think of someone cringing. They don't like anything about you because you ooze with Christ's love and they can't stand it because it makes them feel bad about themselves and that's not ok with them.
But Jesus said "Rejoice and leap for joy" when this happens because then you will know that you are on the right path, the straight and narrow path that God desires us to walk on.
Make sure you are not derailed by other's negative actions toward you. We have been warned that being a Christian, a follower of Christ is not the easy life. We won't fit in, we will be insulted and hated but the reward is the promise, the rainbow after the storm. God's promise to us when we endure hardships in this life is that we, you and me, will get to be a citizen in His glorious kingdom!
We are blessed!
What is one thing you feel you have been blessed with today?
Wednesday - Week 6
Scripture
Luke 6:27-36 (Luke 6:35&36)
35 But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. 36 Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.
Observations
*Love our enemies
* Lend without expecting anything in return
* God is kind to the ungrateful & wicked
* Be merciful
Application
Yesterday we were talking about people who don't like you because of having the Holy Spirit in you. Now the verses today are saying, do good to them. Those people who insult you, love them. Those people who reject and exclude you, lend to them without expecting anything in return.
Now I don't think Jesus wanted us to be a door mat, for people to walk all over and take advantage of. No, He's saying that even though people will be the way they will be, it should not change how we should respond to them. We still need to treat them the way we ourselves want to be treated.
Be merciful - forgive, just as the Lord is merciful (forgives) us.
Thursday - Week 6
Scripture
Luke 6:37-42 (Luke 6:37)
“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.
Observations
* Do not judge and do not condemn, then you will not be judged or condemned.
* Forgive, then you will be forgiven.
* Treat others how Jesus treated others.
Application
WWJD - What Would Jesus Do?
This goes beyond treating other's how we want to be treated. At the end of verse 38 it says that the measure we use, will also be used on us.
Don't judge or condemn. That is not our job. Even among other Christian's we are called to exam fruit, keep each other accountable, but not to judge. And if people do judge you, forgive them. Christ has already died to forgive me, I should be able to forgive someone who has hurt me without having to die for them. I will not loose anything by forgiving, yet I will gain a closeness (to Christ) and closure by forgiving.
Forgive others, because it only hurts us and our walk with the Lord if we hold grudges.
Sometimes I think we don't necessarily forgive, we just tend to push things to the side and say, ah, I'm just not going to think about it, it's in the past I'd like to move on.
The problem is, you've only pushed it to the side, which means you haven't really given it to the Lord. You've kept it and now it is like a sore that won't heal, eventually it's going to cause problems.
Ask God to reveal to you people in your life that you need to forgive. You need to bring to God how you feel, how they made you feel and then ask God to take care of it. Totally give those feelings, frustrations and hurts to Him, so that He can heal that wound, that sore.
And just like a visible sore, it will leave a scar. The scars not there to torment us by continually reminding us of the past or of our mistakes. It's there to remind us that we're healed. It's there to remind us that we always need to consult with God with every aspect of our lives and not ask for His guidance after the fact.
Friday - Week 6
Scripture
Luke 6:43-49 (Luke 6:45,49)
45 A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.
49 But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete.”
Observation
* Whatever we put into our body/mind/heart will show in our actions.
* What comes out of our mouths is what's in our hearts.
* For the one who hears the truth and God's directions or warnings, yet chooses not to listen, their life will be destroyed when a storm hits.
Application
Music is one of those things that can pass the language barrier. It speaks to the soul, so to speak. But just because it speaks to us doesn't mean it is something we want speaking to us in the first place.
A few years ago I threw away at least 10 CD's that I use to listen to all of the time when I was in High School. I did this because I have children and I didn't want them singing along to Boyz 2 Men or Deftones. Children's souls are very sensitive, they haven't had the time to become callous or desensitized, so as a mom I'm having to look out not just for their physical well being but their spiritual well being, for their precious souls.
What you put in your body and in your mind affects your soul. God wants us to be sensitive just like children, to the Spirit. If we're putting other things in that can make us callous we won't be able to hear His whisper. If we can't hear Him, He will still get our attention but by then "...the destruction was complete", our lives will be a mess.
So we need to check ourselves. What are we watching, what are we listening to, who am I around, what am I reading, where do I draw my inspiration from? "The mouth speaks what the heart is full of."
Nunez News
Monday, April 1, 2013
Good Morning Girls Luke Study - Week 5
Week 5 of the first 8 chapters of Luke from the Good Morning Girls study. *My notes*
Monday - Week 5
Scripture
Luke 5:1-11 (Luke 5:6,11)
6 When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break.
11 So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him.
Observations
* Simon and his partners put the nets out just as Jesus had asked them to do.
* Their nets began to break because they had caught so many fish.
* After they pulled their boats to shore, they left everything (Simon and the brothers James and John) to follow Jesus.
Application
Do you think Simon was doubtful? Hopeful? Truly believed they would catch fish? They had been out fishing all night and they hadn't caught anything.
When we pray and ask something of God, are you doubtful? Hopeful? Truly believe it will/can happen? Think about it. I think Simon was hopeful and probably a bit doubtful. I know there were times I was praying and I was hopeful and a bit doubtful. I didn't doubt that God could do it, I guess I doubted that He would even want to. That's where I was wrong in my thinking. I don't know God's heart, but He knows mine. I don't know what's best, but He knows best. So even though Simon was doubtful, even though I have been doubtful, God still knows best. He knows what His children need.
Simon needed to see that God doesn't just give gifts that call a response of "oh that's nice", His gifts made him and everyone around him say "WHOA!" How happy does your heart get when you've given a gift and receive a whoa response? Total ear to ear smile happy right?!
God loves to bless us, we just need to be obedient.
We need to leave everything behind that could deter our focus, and follow Him because He will provide ALL that we need.
Tuesday - Week 5
Scripture
Luke 5:12-16 (Luke 5:13,14,16)
13 Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. “I am willing,” he said. “Be clean!” And immediately the leprosy left him.
14 Then Jesus ordered him, “Don’t tell anyone, but go, show yourself to the priest and offer the sacrifices that Moses commanded for your cleansing, as a testimony to them.”
16 But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.
Observations
* Jesus healed the leper because the man had faith that Jesus could.
* Jesus told the man not to tell anyone but show them that he was cleansed by following the commands of Moses for cleansing.
* Jesus would go off by Himself to pray.
Application
This man had a sickness, a skin disease where he was banished, hopeless and alone. Then Jesus comes by and something inside him said, in Jesus there is hope. The man knew in his heart that Jesus just needed to be willing to help him. Jesus must have looked at him with His compassionate eyes. The eyes that you give a friend or loved one when they are hurting or going through "stuff".
Our sin is a lot like leprosy. It attaches itself to us and then it covers us and before we know it we are ashamed and feeling hopeless and helpless.
Jesus said to the leper, "I am willing. Be clean!" If we come to Him with an open heart and say, Lord I am a mess, but will You accept me and clean me? His answer is always "I am willing!"
Jesus went off to pray on His own often. His life was such an example to us. Daily we need to be cleaned. We need to have constant communication with the Lord so He can wash away all the daily grime and muck that gets stuck to us. All the junk that fills our minds and hearts, some intentionally and some unintentionally or just unavoidable. If we don't go to Him daily to be cleansed/washed the junk starts to build up and then it covers more of us than what should. Then before we know it, it has consumed us.
Think of a dirty windshield on your car. When you're driving in the dark it's not so bad but then try driving toward the sun and then all of a sudden all of that dirt is exposed and you can barely see anything. Wash your windshield and you appreciate having a clean window but more importantly you can see more clearly the way you're suppose to go.
Romans 12:2 says, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."
I must Go To God daily to be renewed so I can clearly see where I need to go.
Wednesday - Week 5
Scripture
Luke 5:17-26 (Luke 5:20,22-24)
20 When Jesus saw their faith, he said, “Friend, your sins are forgiven.”
22 Jesus knew what they were thinking and asked, “Why are you thinking these things in your hearts? 23 Which is easier: to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up and walk’? 24 But I want you to know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins.” So he said to the paralyzed man, “I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.”
Observations
* The paralyzed mans sins were forgiven because of the faith of his friends.
* Jesus claimed Himself to be the Son of Man.
* Jesus said He has the authority on earth to forgive sins.
* Jesus told the man to get up, grab his mat and go home.
Application
Jesus saw the faith of the paralyzed man's friends. Ok so have you ever carried a sleeping person? A full grown sleeping person would probably be what this guy felt like. Dead weight! His friends took him onto the roof and lowered him down (without dropping him) because they knew that Jesus could heal him. This man had some awesome friends!
Today I'm going to think about people in my life that I need to pray for. People that need to be healed or need Jesus. I know God can heal and He can change hearts. I don't want to just be a faithful friend, but a friend who has much faith in her Lord.
Thursday - Week 5
Scripture
Luke 5:27-32 (Luke 5:31&32)
31 Jesus answered them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. 32 I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”
Observations
* When asked by the pharisees and teachers why Jesus eats with tax collectors and sinners He says, they are the ones that need Him.
* No one is above another in needing the Savior.
Application
I don't like going to the doctor, especially when I'm not sick. Really, I don't think I need them when I'm in perfect health. But then when I get really sick, maybe from an infection or having difficulties breathing from asthma issues I feel it is time to pay a visit to the doctor.
Really we're suppose to go to the doctor when we're feeling good so that we can know our "normal" numbers so the doctors has a baseline for when we're not feeling right. They can see yea, normally you're here (good) but now you're here (bad).
Unfortunately, when life is going good, everything is smooth sailing, no crazy bumps in our life; we might forget to pray, to ask for direction or even to just thank God for another day with our family. But God doesn't want us to just be living, He wants us to be perfect, He wants to perfect us, to grow us closer to Him. So, bumps happen, we end up in foggy territory and then we're not feeling so well. What do we do? We pray! We pray because God can fix it. But really, we should have been praying all along.
Personally, when do you pray? You don't have to post your answer but I encourage you to think about it. I intentionally pray before meals with my children, before we leave the driveway in our car, before the kids go to bed and then sometimes I'll just say "thank you Lord" or "please Lord, show us what you want us to learn". I want my children to know that God is not someone we only go to when times are tough. That He is a God who is ALWAYS with us and wants to walk with us. That our prayers or needs are never ever too small or too big for Him.
Friday - Week 5
Scripture
Luke 5:33-39 (Luke 5:34&35)
34 Jesus answered, “Can you make the friends of the bridegroom fast while he is with them? 35 But the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; in those days they will fast.”
Observations
* Fasting is giving up something (that consumes your time regularly) so that you can focus on drawing closer to God.
* Jesus calls Himself the bridegroom
Application
The disciples were in Jesus' presence, the presence of God, so there would not be a reason for them to fast. They didn't need to give up anything that was taking up their time/life to focus on growing closer to God because they were already spending their time/life with Him.
But now we do not have the bridegroom with us physically so it is easy to fill our time with others things. Not saying our things aren't important. But it seems we are being encouraged to take breaks from (fasting from) the things that are time suckers, or the things that draw our focus away from the direction God is pointing out to us.
Fasting is not for diet purposes. It is not a whoa is me I can't eat chocolate cake because I'm fasting. When you are done fasting (I'm not just talking about with food), you should feel closer to God and not desire the negative time consuming things so much. But we are creatures of habit so we have a tendency to go back to our old ways. So then we must fast (give up) something again so our hearts and minds can be cleansed when we draw closer to God instead of the things.
Make a list of how you spend your time. Can you give up or severely limit certain time suckers?
Monday - Week 5
Scripture
Luke 5:1-11 (Luke 5:6,11)
6 When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break.
11 So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him.
Observations
* Simon and his partners put the nets out just as Jesus had asked them to do.
* Their nets began to break because they had caught so many fish.
* After they pulled their boats to shore, they left everything (Simon and the brothers James and John) to follow Jesus.
Application
Do you think Simon was doubtful? Hopeful? Truly believed they would catch fish? They had been out fishing all night and they hadn't caught anything.
When we pray and ask something of God, are you doubtful? Hopeful? Truly believe it will/can happen? Think about it. I think Simon was hopeful and probably a bit doubtful. I know there were times I was praying and I was hopeful and a bit doubtful. I didn't doubt that God could do it, I guess I doubted that He would even want to. That's where I was wrong in my thinking. I don't know God's heart, but He knows mine. I don't know what's best, but He knows best. So even though Simon was doubtful, even though I have been doubtful, God still knows best. He knows what His children need.
Simon needed to see that God doesn't just give gifts that call a response of "oh that's nice", His gifts made him and everyone around him say "WHOA!" How happy does your heart get when you've given a gift and receive a whoa response? Total ear to ear smile happy right?!
God loves to bless us, we just need to be obedient.
We need to leave everything behind that could deter our focus, and follow Him because He will provide ALL that we need.
Tuesday - Week 5
Scripture
Luke 5:12-16 (Luke 5:13,14,16)
13 Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. “I am willing,” he said. “Be clean!” And immediately the leprosy left him.
14 Then Jesus ordered him, “Don’t tell anyone, but go, show yourself to the priest and offer the sacrifices that Moses commanded for your cleansing, as a testimony to them.”
16 But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.
Observations
* Jesus healed the leper because the man had faith that Jesus could.
* Jesus told the man not to tell anyone but show them that he was cleansed by following the commands of Moses for cleansing.
* Jesus would go off by Himself to pray.
Application
This man had a sickness, a skin disease where he was banished, hopeless and alone. Then Jesus comes by and something inside him said, in Jesus there is hope. The man knew in his heart that Jesus just needed to be willing to help him. Jesus must have looked at him with His compassionate eyes. The eyes that you give a friend or loved one when they are hurting or going through "stuff".
Our sin is a lot like leprosy. It attaches itself to us and then it covers us and before we know it we are ashamed and feeling hopeless and helpless.
Jesus said to the leper, "I am willing. Be clean!" If we come to Him with an open heart and say, Lord I am a mess, but will You accept me and clean me? His answer is always "I am willing!"
Jesus went off to pray on His own often. His life was such an example to us. Daily we need to be cleaned. We need to have constant communication with the Lord so He can wash away all the daily grime and muck that gets stuck to us. All the junk that fills our minds and hearts, some intentionally and some unintentionally or just unavoidable. If we don't go to Him daily to be cleansed/washed the junk starts to build up and then it covers more of us than what should. Then before we know it, it has consumed us.
Think of a dirty windshield on your car. When you're driving in the dark it's not so bad but then try driving toward the sun and then all of a sudden all of that dirt is exposed and you can barely see anything. Wash your windshield and you appreciate having a clean window but more importantly you can see more clearly the way you're suppose to go.
Romans 12:2 says, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."
I must Go To God daily to be renewed so I can clearly see where I need to go.
Wednesday - Week 5
Scripture
Luke 5:17-26 (Luke 5:20,22-24)
20 When Jesus saw their faith, he said, “Friend, your sins are forgiven.”
22 Jesus knew what they were thinking and asked, “Why are you thinking these things in your hearts? 23 Which is easier: to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up and walk’? 24 But I want you to know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins.” So he said to the paralyzed man, “I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.”
Observations
* The paralyzed mans sins were forgiven because of the faith of his friends.
* Jesus claimed Himself to be the Son of Man.
* Jesus said He has the authority on earth to forgive sins.
* Jesus told the man to get up, grab his mat and go home.
Application
Jesus saw the faith of the paralyzed man's friends. Ok so have you ever carried a sleeping person? A full grown sleeping person would probably be what this guy felt like. Dead weight! His friends took him onto the roof and lowered him down (without dropping him) because they knew that Jesus could heal him. This man had some awesome friends!
Today I'm going to think about people in my life that I need to pray for. People that need to be healed or need Jesus. I know God can heal and He can change hearts. I don't want to just be a faithful friend, but a friend who has much faith in her Lord.
Thursday - Week 5
Scripture
Luke 5:27-32 (Luke 5:31&32)
31 Jesus answered them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. 32 I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”
Observations
* When asked by the pharisees and teachers why Jesus eats with tax collectors and sinners He says, they are the ones that need Him.
* No one is above another in needing the Savior.
Application
I don't like going to the doctor, especially when I'm not sick. Really, I don't think I need them when I'm in perfect health. But then when I get really sick, maybe from an infection or having difficulties breathing from asthma issues I feel it is time to pay a visit to the doctor.
Really we're suppose to go to the doctor when we're feeling good so that we can know our "normal" numbers so the doctors has a baseline for when we're not feeling right. They can see yea, normally you're here (good) but now you're here (bad).
Unfortunately, when life is going good, everything is smooth sailing, no crazy bumps in our life; we might forget to pray, to ask for direction or even to just thank God for another day with our family. But God doesn't want us to just be living, He wants us to be perfect, He wants to perfect us, to grow us closer to Him. So, bumps happen, we end up in foggy territory and then we're not feeling so well. What do we do? We pray! We pray because God can fix it. But really, we should have been praying all along.
Personally, when do you pray? You don't have to post your answer but I encourage you to think about it. I intentionally pray before meals with my children, before we leave the driveway in our car, before the kids go to bed and then sometimes I'll just say "thank you Lord" or "please Lord, show us what you want us to learn". I want my children to know that God is not someone we only go to when times are tough. That He is a God who is ALWAYS with us and wants to walk with us. That our prayers or needs are never ever too small or too big for Him.
Friday - Week 5
Scripture
Luke 5:33-39 (Luke 5:34&35)
34 Jesus answered, “Can you make the friends of the bridegroom fast while he is with them? 35 But the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; in those days they will fast.”
Observations
* Fasting is giving up something (that consumes your time regularly) so that you can focus on drawing closer to God.
* Jesus calls Himself the bridegroom
Application
The disciples were in Jesus' presence, the presence of God, so there would not be a reason for them to fast. They didn't need to give up anything that was taking up their time/life to focus on growing closer to God because they were already spending their time/life with Him.
But now we do not have the bridegroom with us physically so it is easy to fill our time with others things. Not saying our things aren't important. But it seems we are being encouraged to take breaks from (fasting from) the things that are time suckers, or the things that draw our focus away from the direction God is pointing out to us.
Fasting is not for diet purposes. It is not a whoa is me I can't eat chocolate cake because I'm fasting. When you are done fasting (I'm not just talking about with food), you should feel closer to God and not desire the negative time consuming things so much. But we are creatures of habit so we have a tendency to go back to our old ways. So then we must fast (give up) something again so our hearts and minds can be cleansed when we draw closer to God instead of the things.
Make a list of how you spend your time. Can you give up or severely limit certain time suckers?
Good Morning Girls Luke Study - Week 4
Week 4 of the first 8 chapters of Luke from the Good Morning Girls study. *My notes*
Monday - Week 4
Scripture
Luke 4:1-13 (Luke 4:4,8,12)
4 Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone.’”
8 Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.’”
12 Jesus answered, “It is said: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’”
Observations
* Jesus quoted the scriptures each time the devil tempted him.
* The rest of the verse from Deuteronomy 8:3 says, "... man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord."
* Referring back to Deut. 6:16 which says, "Do not put the Lord your God to the test as you did at Massah." Massah was the place that Moses struck the rock and water came out for the people to drink.
Application
What comes to mind when I'm thinking about HOW Jesus responded to the devil is that verse, Thy word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against Thee.
Psalm 119:9-16
ב Beth
9 How can a young person stay on the path of purity?
By living according to your word.
10 I seek you with all my heart;
do not let me stray from your commands.
11 I have hidden your word in my heart
that I might not sin against you.
12 Praise be to you, Lord;
teach me your decrees.
13 With my lips I recount
all the laws that come from your mouth.
14 I rejoice in following your statutes
as one rejoices in great riches.
15 I meditate on your precepts
and consider your ways.
16 I delight in your decrees;
I will not neglect your word.
Verse 13 of Psalm 119 reminds me also HOW Jesus responded to the devil, He recounted God's law. Can't go wrong there.
Jesus was tired and I'm sure ridiculously hungry (anyone else like me get grumpy when they're hungry?) and then the devil shows up. Jesus answers with patience and is very mater of fact. He does not paraphrase the Law, He says it how it is and that is more than good enough, that is perfect.
So, I need to hide God's word in my heart so I can use it, so i can hear it in my head when I am being tempted or going through trials. I want to know His Word so well that when I'm faced with any type of circumstance His Words will be the first thing that comes to mind and they will bring me comfort and peace.
Tuesday-Week 4
Scripture
Luke 4:14-19(Luke 4:18&19)
18 “The Spirit of the Lord is on me,
because he has anointed me
to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners
and recovery of sight for the blind,
to set the oppressed free,
19 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”
Observations
* Jesus read the scriptures where it is written in Isaiah; the purpose of His coming, what He's going to do.
* "The year of the Lord's favor." Favor - Gracious kindness, a token of love.
Application
God has appointed all of us to go and "proclaim the good news to the poor." I don't think it's talking about the poor as in financially but the poor in spirit. Those who do not have hope because they do not have a relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
And as it continues, "...freedom to the prisoners... sight to the blind... set the oppressed free..." There are so many people out there, in our neighborhood, in our families, acquaintances, that God described as prisoners. They are held in a prison cell of sin, where they can't get out (unless they give their lives to Christ, then they are free).
And sight to the blind. Think about your life before Christ. Did you know where you were going? Did your vision seem more clear once you were saved?
The oppressed need freedom. They carry such heavy, heavy burdens and are weighed down. They need to be told that God loves them so much and you are never so far gone or so weighed down that God can not lighten your load. He offers His love and forgiveness to all who ask.
Then, "... the Lord's favor." God's favor, gracious kindness, a token of love. Because of His kindness, He gives us Grace. We are saved because of His grace. Jesus' life and presence and purpose on this earth was God's token of love for us.
So share! Proclaim the good news!
Wednesday - Week 4Scripture
Luke 4:20-30 (Luke 4:24,27)
24 “Truly I tell you,” he continued, “no prophet is accepted in his hometown.
27 And there were many in Israel with leprosy[a] in the time of Elisha the prophet, yet not one of them was cleansed—only Naaman the Syrian.”
Observations
* People don't like other's to point out their flaws or sins.
* Jesus didn't come to just save the people of Israel, he came to save everyone.
Application
"No prophet is accepted in his hometown". There it is. We will be outsiders. People who we know and love who are not saved, will not want to be around us. Our presence, God's presence in us will make them feel uncomfortable. So the next time you feel like someone doesn't like you, it's not you, it's God in you. Maybe this will make you pray for them differently. Maybe it will stop you from feeling frustrated at their attitude toward you (but really toward God). Being a Christian can seem lonely at times, but God will always be there to bring comfort and He is so good to provide what we need at just the right time.
I need to make sure my views, opinions and life don't fit into societies norms or are swayed by "tolerance", I do need to make sure they a line with what God says is right and wrong.
(Verse 27) Maybe the Israelites felt entitlement. Like they should have been healed just because of their heritage. Naaman was a servant of the king of Syria, who the king had requested be healed. So, God wanted to use Naaman's healing to reach the Syrian's. To spread His love to the people that the "chosen" would not even think twice of helping or even think that God would want to help.
God show's us that His love is not small, it's not just for you and me, or just for those who attend church regularly. His loving arms extend to all.
God looks at the heart. 1 Samuel 16: "... People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”
Thursday - Week 4
Scripture
Luke 4:31-37 (Luke 4:33-35)
33 In the synagogue there was a man possessed by a demon, an impure spirit. He cried out at the top of his voice, 34 “Go away! What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!”
35 “Be quiet!” Jesus said sternly. “Come out of him!” Then the demon threw the man down before them all and came out without injuring him.
Observations
* A man in the synagogue was possessed by a demon.
* The demon knew who Jesus was "...the Holy One of God!"
* Jesus told the demon to be quiet and ordered him to come out of the man.
* The man was left with no injuries.
Application
The demon's can not deny the truth or the power God.
God has the power to change even the most desperate situations.
When it says that the man was uninjured it makes me draw the conclusion that when people would cast out demons at the time, the demons probably wouldn't leave without a fight. Yet Jesus speaks and the demon left without a fight.
"... greater is He who is in you, then he who is in the world." (1 John 4:4)
I'm encouraged that God is bigger then any trial I am faced with, no matter how hard it gets or how desperate I might feel. I must remember, greater is He.
Friday - Week 4
Scripture
Luke 4:38-44 (Luke 4:32&33)
42 At daybreak, Jesus went out to a solitary place. The people were looking for him and when they came to where he was, they tried to keep him from leaving them. 43 But he said, “I must proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns also, because that is why I was sent.”
Observations
* Early in the morning Jesus was trying to have his quiet time with God.
* The people looked for him and when they found him urged him to stay with them.
* Jesus said he must go to proclaim the good news to other towns and that is why he is here.
Application
Jesus needed a break, to be alone, just him and God.
He was not being selfish, because then he went to share in other towns.
This showed me that life is wearing, tiring and draining. I'm not saying take a mini vacation because that's not always possible (due to time or money) but I do think we need to have a quiet time. Away from our phones, away from the computer, away from anything that can distract us from just sitting and being... quiet. Sit and pray. Talk to God.
Notice, it doesn't say how long Jesus was by himself, because really, 5 minutes can do wonders. If you get 30 great! But we do need a time to be quiet, pray and get filled with inspiration from God and a drive to keep going. Jesus said, I have to go do my job, this is what I came to do! If we take the time to be refreshed we will have a renewed desire to keep going. Keep sharing the good news. Keep sharing God's love. Keep leading our little ones to our Lord.
Monday - Week 4
Scripture
Luke 4:1-13 (Luke 4:4,8,12)
4 Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone.’”
8 Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.’”
12 Jesus answered, “It is said: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’”
Observations
* Jesus quoted the scriptures each time the devil tempted him.
* The rest of the verse from Deuteronomy 8:3 says, "... man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord."
* Referring back to Deut. 6:16 which says, "Do not put the Lord your God to the test as you did at Massah." Massah was the place that Moses struck the rock and water came out for the people to drink.
Application
What comes to mind when I'm thinking about HOW Jesus responded to the devil is that verse, Thy word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against Thee.
Psalm 119:9-16
ב Beth
9 How can a young person stay on the path of purity?
By living according to your word.
10 I seek you with all my heart;
do not let me stray from your commands.
11 I have hidden your word in my heart
that I might not sin against you.
12 Praise be to you, Lord;
teach me your decrees.
13 With my lips I recount
all the laws that come from your mouth.
14 I rejoice in following your statutes
as one rejoices in great riches.
15 I meditate on your precepts
and consider your ways.
16 I delight in your decrees;
I will not neglect your word.
Verse 13 of Psalm 119 reminds me also HOW Jesus responded to the devil, He recounted God's law. Can't go wrong there.
Jesus was tired and I'm sure ridiculously hungry (anyone else like me get grumpy when they're hungry?) and then the devil shows up. Jesus answers with patience and is very mater of fact. He does not paraphrase the Law, He says it how it is and that is more than good enough, that is perfect.
So, I need to hide God's word in my heart so I can use it, so i can hear it in my head when I am being tempted or going through trials. I want to know His Word so well that when I'm faced with any type of circumstance His Words will be the first thing that comes to mind and they will bring me comfort and peace.
Tuesday-Week 4
Scripture
Luke 4:14-19(Luke 4:18&19)
18 “The Spirit of the Lord is on me,
because he has anointed me
to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners
and recovery of sight for the blind,
to set the oppressed free,
19 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”
Observations
* Jesus read the scriptures where it is written in Isaiah; the purpose of His coming, what He's going to do.
* "The year of the Lord's favor." Favor - Gracious kindness, a token of love.
Application
God has appointed all of us to go and "proclaim the good news to the poor." I don't think it's talking about the poor as in financially but the poor in spirit. Those who do not have hope because they do not have a relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
And as it continues, "...freedom to the prisoners... sight to the blind... set the oppressed free..." There are so many people out there, in our neighborhood, in our families, acquaintances, that God described as prisoners. They are held in a prison cell of sin, where they can't get out (unless they give their lives to Christ, then they are free).
And sight to the blind. Think about your life before Christ. Did you know where you were going? Did your vision seem more clear once you were saved?
The oppressed need freedom. They carry such heavy, heavy burdens and are weighed down. They need to be told that God loves them so much and you are never so far gone or so weighed down that God can not lighten your load. He offers His love and forgiveness to all who ask.
Then, "... the Lord's favor." God's favor, gracious kindness, a token of love. Because of His kindness, He gives us Grace. We are saved because of His grace. Jesus' life and presence and purpose on this earth was God's token of love for us.
So share! Proclaim the good news!
Wednesday - Week 4Scripture
Luke 4:20-30 (Luke 4:24,27)
24 “Truly I tell you,” he continued, “no prophet is accepted in his hometown.
27 And there were many in Israel with leprosy[a] in the time of Elisha the prophet, yet not one of them was cleansed—only Naaman the Syrian.”
Observations
* People don't like other's to point out their flaws or sins.
* Jesus didn't come to just save the people of Israel, he came to save everyone.
Application
"No prophet is accepted in his hometown". There it is. We will be outsiders. People who we know and love who are not saved, will not want to be around us. Our presence, God's presence in us will make them feel uncomfortable. So the next time you feel like someone doesn't like you, it's not you, it's God in you. Maybe this will make you pray for them differently. Maybe it will stop you from feeling frustrated at their attitude toward you (but really toward God). Being a Christian can seem lonely at times, but God will always be there to bring comfort and He is so good to provide what we need at just the right time.
I need to make sure my views, opinions and life don't fit into societies norms or are swayed by "tolerance", I do need to make sure they a line with what God says is right and wrong.
(Verse 27) Maybe the Israelites felt entitlement. Like they should have been healed just because of their heritage. Naaman was a servant of the king of Syria, who the king had requested be healed. So, God wanted to use Naaman's healing to reach the Syrian's. To spread His love to the people that the "chosen" would not even think twice of helping or even think that God would want to help.
God show's us that His love is not small, it's not just for you and me, or just for those who attend church regularly. His loving arms extend to all.
God looks at the heart. 1 Samuel 16: "... People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”
Thursday - Week 4
Scripture
Luke 4:31-37 (Luke 4:33-35)
33 In the synagogue there was a man possessed by a demon, an impure spirit. He cried out at the top of his voice, 34 “Go away! What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!”
35 “Be quiet!” Jesus said sternly. “Come out of him!” Then the demon threw the man down before them all and came out without injuring him.
Observations
* A man in the synagogue was possessed by a demon.
* The demon knew who Jesus was "...the Holy One of God!"
* Jesus told the demon to be quiet and ordered him to come out of the man.
* The man was left with no injuries.
Application
The demon's can not deny the truth or the power God.
God has the power to change even the most desperate situations.
When it says that the man was uninjured it makes me draw the conclusion that when people would cast out demons at the time, the demons probably wouldn't leave without a fight. Yet Jesus speaks and the demon left without a fight.
"... greater is He who is in you, then he who is in the world." (1 John 4:4)
I'm encouraged that God is bigger then any trial I am faced with, no matter how hard it gets or how desperate I might feel. I must remember, greater is He.
Friday - Week 4
Scripture
Luke 4:38-44 (Luke 4:32&33)
42 At daybreak, Jesus went out to a solitary place. The people were looking for him and when they came to where he was, they tried to keep him from leaving them. 43 But he said, “I must proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns also, because that is why I was sent.”
Observations
* Early in the morning Jesus was trying to have his quiet time with God.
* The people looked for him and when they found him urged him to stay with them.
* Jesus said he must go to proclaim the good news to other towns and that is why he is here.
Application
Jesus needed a break, to be alone, just him and God.
He was not being selfish, because then he went to share in other towns.
This showed me that life is wearing, tiring and draining. I'm not saying take a mini vacation because that's not always possible (due to time or money) but I do think we need to have a quiet time. Away from our phones, away from the computer, away from anything that can distract us from just sitting and being... quiet. Sit and pray. Talk to God.
Notice, it doesn't say how long Jesus was by himself, because really, 5 minutes can do wonders. If you get 30 great! But we do need a time to be quiet, pray and get filled with inspiration from God and a drive to keep going. Jesus said, I have to go do my job, this is what I came to do! If we take the time to be refreshed we will have a renewed desire to keep going. Keep sharing the good news. Keep sharing God's love. Keep leading our little ones to our Lord.
Good Morning Girls Luke Study - Week 3
Week 3 of the first 8 chapters of Luke from the Good Morning Girls study. *My notes*
Monday - Week 3
Scripture
Luke 3:5&6
5 Every valley shall be filled in,
every mountain and hill made low.
The crooked roads shall become straight,
the rough ways smooth.
6 And all people will see God’s salvation.’”
Observation
*If the valleys and mountains are level you would be able to see far away/see clearly.
* Talking about our lives without Christ, crooked and rough but will become straight and smooth with Christ.
* All will see God's salvation!
Application
Be clear when you're sharing the gospel. What is the message? God loves you and sent His Son Jesus to die for yours and my sins so we can live eternally with Him. This is a gift, a free gift! You have to believe this to be saved.
I didn't read anything in there that said, except the bad side of town was so messed up those roads were just left the way they were. There are no exceptions. God wants all of us to be smooth. To see clearly. To live eternally with Him. He wants the best for His children.
All will see, hear and know of His salvation.
We just need to be willing to share, simply open our mouths in a desire to speak truth and God will speak through us.
Tuesday - Week 3
Scripture
Luke 3:7-9 (Luke 3:8&9)
8 Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. And do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham. 9 The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.”
Observations
* John speaking to the crowd coming to be baptized.
* Repent - to feel regret and dedicate yourself to fix it.
* Stay humble/repentant and you will continue to grow and produce fruit.
* You are not saved simply because you come from Abraham's family.
Application
John didn't want baptism to be a fad. "Everyone's doing it so we should too." He was saying that you have to have a change of heart, be repentant first and stay repentant. That when we are repentant we will continue to produce fruit. Produce fruit... What does that mean to you? When a tree (us) is well established and watered regularly (in the word, praying, growing closer to God) it will produce fruit. Usually it takes time before you start to see this fruit. Sometimes it could be a year or two, sometimes it could be 5-10 years. But John encourages us to keep on with a repentant heart. If your heart is right and your intentions are pure (I just want to please God), you will produce fruit. Keep on.
John emphasized again with the next part of how it is a personal heart change. You can not rely on the salvation of your parents/family for your salvation.
Who wants a tree in their yard taking up space that produces bad fruit? I wouldn't want a bitter plum tree or a tasteless apple tree. It would get cut down and tossed. As will we if we know the truth yet produce bad fruit; because then we wouldn't be beneficial to His garden.
Wednesday - Week 3
Scripture
Luke 3:10-14 (Luke 3:10&11)
10 “What should we do then?” the crowd asked.
11 John answered, “Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none, and anyone who has food should do the same.”
Observations
* Crowd wanting to know the answers "what should we do?"
* Share what we have with those who do not have.
Application
I find it interested that John said "two shirts". Don't we all have way more than 2 shirts!? So regardless if we have an Over abundance, just the fact that we have Any means we need to share or give to those who have None. I find myself repeating on an almost daily basis "How do we treat others?" and then my kids say, "Treat others how you want to be treated." ;)
Note: Be prayerful with how God wants to use you to bless others. I'll ask you in a couple days what you feel God is telling you. :)
Thursday - week 3
Scripture
Luke 3:15-18 (Luke 3:16&17)
16 John answered them all, “I baptize you with water. But one who is more powerful than I will come, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. 17 His winnowing fork is in his hand to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his barn, but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.”
Observations
* John felt let to explain that he was not the Messiah. That even he, who the people thought could be the Messiah, said he was unworthy to touch the Messiah's sandals.
* The Messiah will baptize us with the Holy Spirit and fire (purification-purify us).
* He will gather the saved and the unsaved will be burned up.
Application
John was humble and his message was clear. He did not want anyone to praise him or put a false hope in him. He was doing his job of proclaiming that Jesus, the Messiah was coming soon. How do you apply this?
Be humble...
Speak truth...
Do my job...
Be humble because the only reason I am able to breath, walk, talk, hear, speak or smile is because God made me this way. He is the reason I am here. I can not take credit for something I had nothing to do with creating.
Speak truth because John did not sugar coat what is going to happen. If we're always passive about judgement then who is going to take it seriously? It is real. It is going to happen.
Do my job. My job is to raise my children in the Lord and pray for them to be world changers, to do mighty things for the Lord's kingdom. To be an example of who Jesus is yet show them that I am, and no one is perfect and that is why we need a Savior. That God forgives us and always is there for us. That is MY job.
Friday - Week 3
Scripture
Luke 3:19-38 (Luke 3:22)
22 and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.”
Observations
* After Jesus was baptized the Holy Spirit came upon him, those who were present saw it.
* God proclaiming that Jesus is His Son.
Application
As Jesus was still praying the heaven's opened... When we pray God hears us immediately. The Holy Spirit is our direct link to Him. It's not, "please leave a message and I'll get back to you." Can you imagine!?! I'm so glad He hears my prayers!
We are to pray without ceasing (1 Thess 5:17) and it is never in vain.
What a sight to see the Holy Spirit descending on Jesus! When we ask Christ into our heart we immediately feel changed, new, a feeling of belonging because now we are a child of God. It is a wonderful feeling to be wrapped in His blanket of love!
The word's that God said to Jesus, "You are My son, whom I love;"
We are all children of God, daughter's of the Holy One, whom He loves!
I desire to love like God, unconditionally.
Monday - Week 3
Scripture
Luke 3:5&6
5 Every valley shall be filled in,
every mountain and hill made low.
The crooked roads shall become straight,
the rough ways smooth.
6 And all people will see God’s salvation.’”
Observation
*If the valleys and mountains are level you would be able to see far away/see clearly.
* Talking about our lives without Christ, crooked and rough but will become straight and smooth with Christ.
* All will see God's salvation!
Application
Be clear when you're sharing the gospel. What is the message? God loves you and sent His Son Jesus to die for yours and my sins so we can live eternally with Him. This is a gift, a free gift! You have to believe this to be saved.
I didn't read anything in there that said, except the bad side of town was so messed up those roads were just left the way they were. There are no exceptions. God wants all of us to be smooth. To see clearly. To live eternally with Him. He wants the best for His children.
All will see, hear and know of His salvation.
We just need to be willing to share, simply open our mouths in a desire to speak truth and God will speak through us.
Tuesday - Week 3
Scripture
Luke 3:7-9 (Luke 3:8&9)
8 Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. And do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham. 9 The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.”
Observations
* John speaking to the crowd coming to be baptized.
* Repent - to feel regret and dedicate yourself to fix it.
* Stay humble/repentant and you will continue to grow and produce fruit.
* You are not saved simply because you come from Abraham's family.
Application
John didn't want baptism to be a fad. "Everyone's doing it so we should too." He was saying that you have to have a change of heart, be repentant first and stay repentant. That when we are repentant we will continue to produce fruit. Produce fruit... What does that mean to you? When a tree (us) is well established and watered regularly (in the word, praying, growing closer to God) it will produce fruit. Usually it takes time before you start to see this fruit. Sometimes it could be a year or two, sometimes it could be 5-10 years. But John encourages us to keep on with a repentant heart. If your heart is right and your intentions are pure (I just want to please God), you will produce fruit. Keep on.
John emphasized again with the next part of how it is a personal heart change. You can not rely on the salvation of your parents/family for your salvation.
Who wants a tree in their yard taking up space that produces bad fruit? I wouldn't want a bitter plum tree or a tasteless apple tree. It would get cut down and tossed. As will we if we know the truth yet produce bad fruit; because then we wouldn't be beneficial to His garden.
Wednesday - Week 3
Scripture
Luke 3:10-14 (Luke 3:10&11)
10 “What should we do then?” the crowd asked.
11 John answered, “Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none, and anyone who has food should do the same.”
Observations
* Crowd wanting to know the answers "what should we do?"
* Share what we have with those who do not have.
Application
I find it interested that John said "two shirts". Don't we all have way more than 2 shirts!? So regardless if we have an Over abundance, just the fact that we have Any means we need to share or give to those who have None. I find myself repeating on an almost daily basis "How do we treat others?" and then my kids say, "Treat others how you want to be treated." ;)
Note: Be prayerful with how God wants to use you to bless others. I'll ask you in a couple days what you feel God is telling you. :)
Thursday - week 3
Scripture
Luke 3:15-18 (Luke 3:16&17)
16 John answered them all, “I baptize you with water. But one who is more powerful than I will come, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. 17 His winnowing fork is in his hand to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his barn, but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.”
Observations
* John felt let to explain that he was not the Messiah. That even he, who the people thought could be the Messiah, said he was unworthy to touch the Messiah's sandals.
* The Messiah will baptize us with the Holy Spirit and fire (purification-purify us).
* He will gather the saved and the unsaved will be burned up.
Application
John was humble and his message was clear. He did not want anyone to praise him or put a false hope in him. He was doing his job of proclaiming that Jesus, the Messiah was coming soon. How do you apply this?
Be humble...
Speak truth...
Do my job...
Be humble because the only reason I am able to breath, walk, talk, hear, speak or smile is because God made me this way. He is the reason I am here. I can not take credit for something I had nothing to do with creating.
Speak truth because John did not sugar coat what is going to happen. If we're always passive about judgement then who is going to take it seriously? It is real. It is going to happen.
Do my job. My job is to raise my children in the Lord and pray for them to be world changers, to do mighty things for the Lord's kingdom. To be an example of who Jesus is yet show them that I am, and no one is perfect and that is why we need a Savior. That God forgives us and always is there for us. That is MY job.
Friday - Week 3
Scripture
Luke 3:19-38 (Luke 3:22)
22 and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.”
Observations
* After Jesus was baptized the Holy Spirit came upon him, those who were present saw it.
* God proclaiming that Jesus is His Son.
Application
As Jesus was still praying the heaven's opened... When we pray God hears us immediately. The Holy Spirit is our direct link to Him. It's not, "please leave a message and I'll get back to you." Can you imagine!?! I'm so glad He hears my prayers!
We are to pray without ceasing (1 Thess 5:17) and it is never in vain.
What a sight to see the Holy Spirit descending on Jesus! When we ask Christ into our heart we immediately feel changed, new, a feeling of belonging because now we are a child of God. It is a wonderful feeling to be wrapped in His blanket of love!
The word's that God said to Jesus, "You are My son, whom I love;"
We are all children of God, daughter's of the Holy One, whom He loves!
I desire to love like God, unconditionally.
Good Morning Girls Luke Study - Week 2
Here are my notes that I shared with the ladies in my group for the Good Morning Girls Luke study.
Monday Scripture for week 2
Luke 2:1-7 (Luke 2:7)
7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Observations
* Mary made it to Bethlehem and gave birth to her firstborn son
* The most humble way for a King to be born is how Jesus was born. Wrapped in cloth, layed in a feeding trough because there was no room in a comfy room for Him.
Application
Jesus came to serve not to be served. Even on His birth day Mary and Joseph weren't asking for favor, the angels did not make people move out of their way for special treatment.
Jesus' life is the example of how we as believers are to live. We are to be servants, as in humble and willing to do things for the benefit of others. A servant is not a slave.
Those of us who are mothers or even just married, we have to make choices very regularly where we have to weigh the benefits, not just for ourselves but for our husband and children. Is it for everyone's benefit or just mine?
Last year I wanted a home birth so bad but after looking into a bunch of options (besides un assisted) it was going to cost to much. I couldn't use up our tax return money for a home birth. It was such a hard call because I REALLY wanted this and I was totally dreading going to the hospital again. But I just had to place it in God's hands and say, no, it's not going to happen unless that's what God wants. It's hard to give up a want or desire! But in the end God know's what's best. That would have been such a bummer to pay all this money for a home birth and then end up in the hospital anyways because of heavy bleeding after (which is what happened). I would have felt guilty for being selfish.
Tuesday-Week 2
Week 2
Monday Scripture for week 2
Luke 2:1-7 (Luke 2:7)
7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Observations
* Mary made it to Bethlehem and gave birth to her firstborn son
* The most humble way for a King to be born is how Jesus was born. Wrapped in cloth, layed in a feeding trough because there was no room in a comfy room for Him.
Application
Jesus came to serve not to be served. Even on His birth day Mary and Joseph weren't asking for favor, the angels did not make people move out of their way for special treatment.
Jesus' life is the example of how we as believers are to live. We are to be servants, as in humble and willing to do things for the benefit of others. A servant is not a slave.
Those of us who are mothers or even just married, we have to make choices very regularly where we have to weigh the benefits, not just for ourselves but for our husband and children. Is it for everyone's benefit or just mine?
Last year I wanted a home birth so bad but after looking into a bunch of options (besides un assisted) it was going to cost to much. I couldn't use up our tax return money for a home birth. It was such a hard call because I REALLY wanted this and I was totally dreading going to the hospital again. But I just had to place it in God's hands and say, no, it's not going to happen unless that's what God wants. It's hard to give up a want or desire! But in the end God know's what's best. That would have been such a bummer to pay all this money for a home birth and then end up in the hospital anyways because of heavy bleeding after (which is what happened). I would have felt guilty for being selfish.
Tuesday-Week 2
Scripture
Luke 2:8-20 (Luke 2:20)
The shepherds went back, glorifying and praising God for all that they had heard and seen, just as had been told them.
Observations
* As the shepherds went back to their sheep they sang praises and worshiped God for allowing them to see what the angel had told them, Jesus.
Application
The shepherds believed what they were told before they even saw. So they praised God for allowing them to see with their own eyes the fulfillment of His promise.
God keeps His promises and makes them known at His time.
Wednesday-Week 2
Scripture
Luke 2:21-35 (Luke 2:30-32)
30 For my eyes have seen Your salvation,
31 Which You have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
32 A Light of revelation to the Gentiles,
And the glory of Your people Israel.”
Observations
* Simeon was thanking God for keeping His promise to him by being able to see Jesus with his own eyes "Your salvation".
* Salvation revealed to the gentiles
* Praise of Israel
Revelation:
a : an act of revealing or communicating divine truth
b : something that is revealed by God to humans
Applications
We have been given a promise similar to Simeon's. We will be able to see Jesus with our own eyes when we get to heaven.
We are to trust that this will happen, that we will see Jesus' face; just as Simeon trusted that God would fulfill His promise.
We also need to remember to give THANKS when a promise has been fulfilled. When we've asked God to answer a prayer for us and then He does, do you remember to say thank you? Even when His answer is not the one we want to hear?
This reminds me that God is so good and if He says something will happen, it most definitely will. Also, when it said that he came in the Spirit into the temple, I believe that means that Simeon was allowing God to direct his path. I pray often with my children, "Lord, direct our day", because maybe what we had planned is not His plan. What if Simeon had chosen to go to the market instead? I think God would have still fulfilled His promise but maybe it would have been delayed for when Jesus' was older. But Simeon allowed God, the Spirit, to lead him. And that is what I want too.
Thursday-week 2
Scripture
Luke 2:36-40 (Luke 2:40)
40 The Child continued to grow and become strong, increasing in wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.
Observations
*Jesus grew older
*Jesus became stronger
*Jesus became wiser
*The grace of God was upon Him
Application
We need to seek to grow wiser as we continue to grow older.
So my question to you is, HOW will you seek to grow wiser?
Friday-Week 2
Luke 2:8-20 (Luke 2:20)
The shepherds went back, glorifying and praising God for all that they had heard and seen, just as had been told them.
Observations
* As the shepherds went back to their sheep they sang praises and worshiped God for allowing them to see what the angel had told them, Jesus.
Application
The shepherds believed what they were told before they even saw. So they praised God for allowing them to see with their own eyes the fulfillment of His promise.
God keeps His promises and makes them known at His time.
Wednesday-Week 2
Scripture
Luke 2:21-35 (Luke 2:30-32)
30 For my eyes have seen Your salvation,
31 Which You have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
32 A Light of revelation to the Gentiles,
And the glory of Your people Israel.”
Observations
* Simeon was thanking God for keeping His promise to him by being able to see Jesus with his own eyes "Your salvation".
* Salvation revealed to the gentiles
* Praise of Israel
Revelation:
a : an act of revealing or communicating divine truth
b : something that is revealed by God to humans
Applications
We have been given a promise similar to Simeon's. We will be able to see Jesus with our own eyes when we get to heaven.
We are to trust that this will happen, that we will see Jesus' face; just as Simeon trusted that God would fulfill His promise.
We also need to remember to give THANKS when a promise has been fulfilled. When we've asked God to answer a prayer for us and then He does, do you remember to say thank you? Even when His answer is not the one we want to hear?
This reminds me that God is so good and if He says something will happen, it most definitely will. Also, when it said that he came in the Spirit into the temple, I believe that means that Simeon was allowing God to direct his path. I pray often with my children, "Lord, direct our day", because maybe what we had planned is not His plan. What if Simeon had chosen to go to the market instead? I think God would have still fulfilled His promise but maybe it would have been delayed for when Jesus' was older. But Simeon allowed God, the Spirit, to lead him. And that is what I want too.
Thursday-week 2
Scripture
Luke 2:36-40 (Luke 2:40)
40 The Child continued to grow and become strong, increasing in wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.
Observations
*Jesus grew older
*Jesus became stronger
*Jesus became wiser
*The grace of God was upon Him
Application
We need to seek to grow wiser as we continue to grow older.
So my question to you is, HOW will you seek to grow wiser?
Friday-Week 2
Scripture
Luke 2:41-52 (Luke 2:51& 52)
51 Then he went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. But his mother treasured all these things in her heart. 52 And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.
Observations
* Jesus obeyed His earthly father and mother
* Mary treasured all these things in her heart (do you think that means that she treasured His obedience to them or that she was just enjoying watching Him grow?)
* Jesus continued to grow wiser and stronger as he grew older.
Application
Even though Jesus was busy learning what He could and discussing things with "wise" men He still had respect for His father and mother to stop what He was doing and obey them. Stop, listen, obey. And what a blessing He was to His mother! Jesus could have easily been facetious toward His mother because He is the Son of God and knows better, but He wasn't.
Doing this study these two weeks has really helped me Stop to read God's word. But then I have to sit and ponder and Listen to what God is wanting me to hear/see. Obey! We are to be doers of the Word not only hearers. So application... I need to Stop, Listen and then Obey...
Luke 2:41-52 (Luke 2:51& 52)
51 Then he went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. But his mother treasured all these things in her heart. 52 And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.
Observations
* Jesus obeyed His earthly father and mother
* Mary treasured all these things in her heart (do you think that means that she treasured His obedience to them or that she was just enjoying watching Him grow?)
* Jesus continued to grow wiser and stronger as he grew older.
Application
Even though Jesus was busy learning what He could and discussing things with "wise" men He still had respect for His father and mother to stop what He was doing and obey them. Stop, listen, obey. And what a blessing He was to His mother! Jesus could have easily been facetious toward His mother because He is the Son of God and knows better, but He wasn't.
Doing this study these two weeks has really helped me Stop to read God's word. But then I have to sit and ponder and Listen to what God is wanting me to hear/see. Obey! We are to be doers of the Word not only hearers. So application... I need to Stop, Listen and then Obey...
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