The last chapter, Every Promise Fulfilled, really spoke to my heart, ya'll! We have seen how the heroes of faith have relied on God for their confidence, their boldness, and their courage. Lysa then states that these promises from God can be ours as well. We come to depend on God and His promises to instruct us, teach us, and lead us. Secondly, our possession of Gods' promises affects us. He shapes and molds our character...Lastly God and his promises gain control over our lives. Our relationship with Him so profoundly changes us that we live completely different lives as a result. We truly become the new creation God intends for us to become. (2 Corinth. 5:17).
I AM a new creation in Him. But do I always act like it? I DO want to depend on Him each day. But sometimes, it's kinda hard! You see, there are still things that I want to do on my own! My way! Sorta like that toddler stage that creeps back into adulthood. I know that I need to let go and let God...but some days are easier than others! That, my sweet friends, is when I need to find a quiet place and sit quietly(which is hard for me to do!) and pray. Then, I need to LISTEN for His response. I desperately want those blessings, those promises, that He gave Abraham, Moses, and Joshua. But, it has to be His way and not mine. Surrender is the word that Lysa used in her book. If I want to live life to the fullest, I have to surrender myself to Him each day--maybe several times a day! I desire for my character to be more like His. I want to be filled to overflowing with the Holy Spirit so that I can walk in faith with confidence, boldness, and courage each day. I want to claim God's promises.
Many blessings,
11 comments:
I just started reading this book and doing the study last night. I so appreciate everything you just said. Your words are a great encouragement and blessing to me.
God's timing is so perfect. This year God has prompted me to take a step of radical faith and sometimes, yesterday especially, I sink into discouragement. It is clear this study is part of His plan for me. Thank you.
I finished my book Sunday night by lantern! (Hopefully, God will provide the time and words for a blog post.)
Oh, to have the faith, obedience, response as our forefathers...Abraham, Moses, Joshua. Lysa has me interested now in studying Joshua in depth. I'm in search to know all about Paul right now, David is next, then Joshua, and brush up on Moses. To be like Jesus is the upmost but to read about those who God called to such a high level is wonderful. Like David being the only one called "a man after God's own heart." Wow! What honor. I know that has nothing to do with this study but it's on my mind.
The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak! That's my problem too. I can be so on fire for God one moment, then 2 weeks later I realize it's 3 days since I've read the bible.
Thankfully my bible study starts next week - and the accountability begins.
"I have to surrender myself to Him each day--maybe several times a day!"
The several times a day I think is key for me. I can start my day off oh so right and peaceful spending time in prayer and study....then everybody wakes up!
Thanks for sharing your insights with us!
Susan -
You will find this blog a blessing as well.
http://runningismental.blogspot.com
Hope you are making it this week!! Will call you later today.
Susan for He hears the desires of your heart, to know Him more, and when your desires match up with His will...watch out...cause He is gonna show you some more of Himself...stand back...its going to be good and its going to be BIG!
May you feel blessed and loved today.
Oh yes... dependent upon God alone. That is what I want to. Notice I said "want"... not what I am already doing.
This was an awesome book. I can't wait til we start the next one.
Lynn
Challenging thoughts Susan. I was thinking while reading this about living surrendered...it might have been in that last chapter for I read it a week or two ago, but something I read here lately. It isn't enough to ACCEPT Jesus as my savior, He also has to be my LORD. Which is....allowing Him to lead me, and I am to stay surrendered.
I love ya,
Yolanda
Just stopped by to say "hi"...I am doing the study next Tuesday...new book! I am looking forward to it! Runner MOM...cute name!
-Sandy Toes
Surrender - what a wonderful concept, but a challenging act. I agree it's on-going decision to let go and let God. We have to hold onto those promises and trust, He fulfilled them in the past and promises to do the same in our future. May the journey continue...
Hey there,
It seems like you all really had a great time going through Lysa's book together. I'll have to keep the next one in mind.
Thanks for your enthusiasm and heart for the Lord. Some days it's just what I need to hear.
I was thinking about you today when I was at the gym in a spin class. If I stuck with my fitness like you do, I wouldn't have been sucking wind so much!!!
Thanks too for your encouragement on my blog, you're a sweet friend indeed. (I'm seeing Debbie tomorrow so I'll pass on your message. :-)
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