Death, God's Will, Widows and Widowers, Writing and Speaking

What Does Home Mean to You? Guest Blogger – Jackie Trottmann

Dear Readers,
 
Today, my friend Jackie, who lost her husband recently, is graciously allowing me to share her thoughts. Jackie, in her blog, shared how losing her husband, makes her ponder her view of home.
While I haven’t experienced such loss, I know many who have, and I pray for them to find healing and purpose. In fact, I selfishly hope I never have to go through it, because I don’t want to be alone. However,  we can’t predict our future, but I believe God guides us through every challenge we must face,
 
I encourage you to read Jackie’s blog with an open heart and pray for her and those going through similar journeys. And if you are so inclined, feel free to join her site to receive more articles written by her. [Name and address are listed below.]
 
God bless you.
 

 
What Does Home Mean to You?
by Jackie Trottmann
 
Those who love me will keep my word, and my Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. John 14:23
 

I’ve been going through a lot of old journals lately. This subject of home I had been kicking around in September of 2018. It was three months prior to moving into the new home Robert and I had built. 

The dictionary describes home as: 

  1. A place of residence
  2. The place in which one’s domestic affections are centered
  3. The native place or region of a thing
  4. Any place of refuge

And some home sayings are: At home – meaning at ease.

Home free – meaning safe, secure and settled. 

During this transition from one home to another, I was pondering what home really meant. 

Now that I am home without Robert, I’ve been pondering this meaning yet again.

A Place of Residence and the Native Place or Region of a Thing

These two definitions hold true for me. My residence and native place are both St. Louis, Missouri. I was born and raised here. This place has been home my entire life. 

My son lives here. Robert’s parents and my mother lived here. As our parents aged, we were grateful to be able to take care of their needs until they passed away. 

We have friends here and a strong faith community we are a part of through our church. 

The home I grew up in holds no sentimental value for me. In fact, it held a lot of pain. It was a broken home, hardly a place of refuge due to my father’s alcohol-induced violent outbursts. I couldn’t wait to leave home. 

Five homes followed. The sixth became my refuge where I finally came home to myself after a painful divorce. I found my joy there.

After Robert and I married, I moved into his home. It was a cozy little sanctuary for 14 years. But after Robert’s Parkinson’s diagnosis, that home would not be suitable for the growing needs we would require for his safety. Plus, we needed more space for hosting friends and family.

The Place in Which One’s Domestic Affections Are Centered – And a Place of Refuge

Now that Robert is gone, I once again find that I am coming home to myself. In this case, physically and spiritually.

I am so grateful that we built this home because it truly is a sanctuary and place of refuge. It’s extremely quiet. There is lots of what I call gracious space. While our prior home was cozy, it could easily become cluttered and cramped. 

Feeling Exiled from Home

There was a visiting pastor and therapist who gave a sermon called At Home Even in Exile. 

The passage used was Isaiah 51:1-6 where the Israelites were exiled from their homes. The promise was that God [would] never leave ]them and [would] deliver them. 

She shared her story of depression. It flares up like the bad disk in her back. Unlike the disk, which causes physical pain, depression will attack her emotionally. Left unchecked, it will question her existential truths: does God love me, does my husband love me, does what I do matter?

Her simple garden variety anxiety turns into a place where she no longer feels at home in her family, mind, or with God. She is in exile from meaning and purpose and in need of finding her joy in coming back home to her true self. 

Home – The Place That Never Goes Away

I believe home is the deepest part of ourselves. It’s our true essence, where we find our hearts and souls. 

Like a place of refuge and that phrase, home free meaning safe, secure, and settled, that’s where you find peace, purpose, and power, being settled in your own skin. 

You are at home, no longer walking in the wilderness searching outside of yourself for safety and security. It’s found when you come home to you – God’s Beloved.

Paul writes: Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God? 1 Corinthians 6:19. 

The destruction of the physical temple in Jerusalem gives way to temple theology beyond a physical presence. It represents sacred space for the Sabbath and other ways of welcoming the presence of God within. 

While I will never come home to find Robert waiting for me, I continue to learn that wherever I am, I will find home within that place where I feel loved, safe, and secure. 

Because I know that God dwells within me. 

Jesus didn’t have a place to lay his head, but he had a Kingdom. That place was always with him and within him. 

May you be at home within, that place where you will find peace and refuge.

Do you have any thoughts on home? I’d love to hear them.  

May you find joy, peace, and rest for the journey,

Jackie Trottmann
Author and Spiritual Director 
Jackietrottmann.com
Church and Ministry, God, Jesus, and Holy Spirit, How to Guides, Life Issues, Patti Greene, Sacred Snippets

Sacred Snippet: Coffee

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I think I’m a genius! Humbly Speaking! 

Yesterday morning, our coffee pot would not work, and I am a serious coffee drinker. I made some tea, but it didn’t hit the spot.

So this morning I was listening to a sermon about strategic and spiritual vision, and the idea struck me on how to make coffee when your coffee pot is broken. [Preachers, you never know how far-reaching your messages may be.]

Step #1: Fill up a filter with your coffee grains.

Coffee – Step 1

Step #2: Get a bowl and put it in the sink under the water spigot.

Coffee – Step  2

Step #3: Turn on the water from the spigot and let it run into the filter. push the button at the bottom and let the water drip through the filter into the bowl. Repeat to make as much coffee as you would like.

Coffee – Step 3

Step # 4: Pour the water from the bowl into a coffee cup and place it in the microwave for as long as needed to make it hot.

Coffee – Step 4

Step 5: When your coffee is hot, doctor your coffee with cream, sugar, sweetener, or whatever you like in your coffee.


Coffee – Step  5

Step 6: Sit down and enjoy your coffee.

Coffee – Step 6

Step #7: Refill your cup from the bowl and place it into the microwave as many times as needed.

I was desperate and I envisioned what to do. I don’t know if this was a strategic or spiritual vision, but either way, it worked. Thanks, Preacher!

How often, when we are desperate, do we turn to the Lord for His solution and vision? He should be the first place we turn!

Have a great day.

Bible Study, Book Reviews, Christian Living, God, Jesus, and Holy Spirit, New Testament, Old Testament, Spiritual Growth, Thomas Nelson

A Book Review: NKJV Ultra Thinline Bible by Patti Greene

A Book Review by Patti Greene

Thomas Nelson Ultra Thinline Bible

NKJV Ultra Thinline Bible. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2024.

Disclaimer

I received a teal-colored softcover copy of the 1st edition of the NKJV Ultra Thinline Version from Thomas Nelson because I agreed to give an honest review of this Bible.

Publication

This publication is an updated version of the Bible’s original King James Version (KJV). Its update includes using today’s language for better readability for the times we live in. This teal version was published on February 13, 2024.

Content

First, after the copyright page, we find the Contents page. What I saw, which I liked, was that on the Contents page was the name of each book of the Old and New Testaments coupled with the page number of each book. This much-needed information benefits those unfamiliar with the order of the books of the Bible.

Second, the next page includes a list of the Abbreviations to all sixty-six books of the Bible with clarification as to whether the book is in the Old or New Testament.

Third, the Preface comes next. This is quite an advantage in helping the reader understand more about the original King James Version and why this new version was deemed necessary.

Fourth, Jesus’s words stand out in red lettering, which is always a good feature in a Bible.

Finally, the back of the internal Bible has eight pages for Notes and eight colored Maps from the world of the patriarchs through Jerusalem at the time of Jesus.

This NKJV Ultrathin Value Bible is an excellent choice for those who have enjoyed the original KJV version or feel comfortable using a derivative of the original version.

Format

“Simple” is what I would call this Bible. There is nothing within the text that is fancy or extra special.

The print is tiny, using an 8-point font. Made of imitation leather, it is not especially useful for long-term use. Within the Bible text, there is a chapter title for each chapter of the book, with some including subtitles. Its cover size is approximately 5 ½  x 8 ¾  x ¾,” which makes it perfect to include in a mid-size purse or backpack.

Pros and Cons — Not Mentioned Previously

Pros

This ultrathin version of the Bible is simply an attractive Bible, which, in my opinion, makes it desirable to give as a gift. Many would appreciate a Bible like this for special occasions such as salvation, baptism, a wedding gift, or even to lay in a casket before burial. It would also be ideal for church presentations.

Its Presentation page makes it extra unique.

Its simple wheat cover design surrounds the words Holy Bible. There are other colored covers with different designs that would be appropriate for either males or females, but this teal edition was the one I received.

I would also think this Bible would be a great one to use if you are a public speaker or pastor—to hold when speaking for confidence or to hide one’s notes. Of course,  one should choose the color that best suits your style and preference because teal might not be appropriate.

The satin ribbon marker is always a plus in any Bible.

Cons

This Bible is not suitable for everyone. It does not have concordances, cross-references, or study notes, and there is limited ability for taking margin notes. Therefore, if you’re looking for a study Bible or one with extraneous notes, tips, and help, this might not be your best option.

Before Purchasing

In conclusion, as with all books, the reader should evaluate the Bible thoroughly and decide if it meets their needs. The Bible is an excellent option for people who prefer a lightweight, simple design, can read small print, and want to use it for gift-giving.

Please feel free to share, forward, or distribute as you’d like.

God bless.

Patti

Bible Study, Book Review, The Bible, Thomas Nelson

A Book Review: The Breathe Life Bible by Patti Greene

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A Book Review by Patti Greene, MATS

Publication

 Jenkins, Michele Clark and Stephanie Perry Moore, eds. The Breathe Life Bible. Nashville:  Thomas Nelson, 2024.

New King James Version (NKJV)

Disclaimer

I received a soft cover copy of The Breathe Life Bible because I am a Bible reviewer for Thomas Nelson.  I agreed to give an honest review of this edition, first published on February 13, 2024.

Review

Upon opening this beautifully boxed Bible, I saw a stunning 1,696-page Bible adorned with soft imitation leather and expertly double-stitched with brown threading along the cover’s edges. The cover boasts a reassuring imprinted grip feature, ensuring secure handling to prevent accidental drops. The title, imprinted in beautiful gold lettering, reads “The Breathe Life Bible,” complemented by gold exterior pagination and thumb indexing. Additionally, Breathe stands for Believe, Reconcile, Exalt, Trust, Hope, and Elevate.

This Bible is beautifully laid out with ornate gold borders on supplemental information pages. At the bottom of each page, additional information is provided for cross-referencing. This Bible edition comes with a presentation page, making it an ideal gift for someone special. Additionally, it includes an index to authors, a table of monies, weights, and measures, a list of Jesus Christ’s parables, and a concordance at the back of the Bible. The Bible also features eight maps tracing biblical locations from the Old Testament Patriarchs to Jerusalem in Jesus’ time. Furthermore, the words of Jesus are printed in red to make them easily distinguishable. Finally, the copyright page permissions facilitate quoting and reprinting, benefiting pastors, writers, and researchers who wish to use the content for various purposes.

The Bible we are considering has some limitations you should be aware of. Firstly, there is no leather cover option available for this Bible. Secondly, the imitation leather cover may have some durability issues, especially if the Bible is used heavily. Thirdly, the margins on each side of the pages are only ½” wide, which limits the space for making notes. Fourthly, the print in the alphabetic concordance is quite small, making it difficult to read. Lastly, there is no glossary provided to define words, which can be inconvenient for readers.

This Bible carries significant meaning for the African American community as black contributors primarily author it. The topics discussed in the Bible are relevant to the community’s experiences, including Rev. Dr. Bernice A. King’s “The Peace I Give to You,” as well as discussions on slavery and the killing of George Floyd.

The Breathe Life Bible aims to bridge Scripture with personal experience and integrate biblical truth into daily life, empowering individuals to put their faith into action—a noble endeavor indeed.

For though I am absent in the flesh, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ.  Colossians 2:5 from The Breathe Life Bible

 

Devotionals, Prayer, Writing and Speaking

Voices: The Power and Importance of Prayer

February 13, 2024-First Published in The Baptist Standard

In January, I had the privilege of discussing prayer with a group of wonderful women. During this session, I found myself pouring out my thoughts and insights, resulting in a talk that spanned about 3,000 words. In the aftermath of this talk, I felt compelled to put my reflections into a more concise form, aiming for an article of approximately 900 words. As I embarked on this endeavor, I couldn’t help but feel that as I was crossing out each word, fragments of my heart were being torn out. Nevertheless, I felt driven by a desire to share these reflections with a wider audience. It is my hope that this article will resonate with other women who yearn for deeper insights into prayer. Please feel free to share it with anyone whom you believe might benefit from its message and comment on the Baptist Standard link.

Click to read the article.

greenenpastures.org

#BaptistStandard

Voices: The power and importance of prayer

#bgbg2, Bible Study, Book Review, Book Reviews, Patti Greene, The Bible

A Book Review: The New Testament for Everyone by N.T. Wright

A Book Review by Patti Greene

Publication

Wright, N.T. The New Testament for Everyone: A Fresh Translation. 3rd  ed., Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2023.

Disclaimer

I received a hardcover copy of the 3rd edition of The New Testament for Everyone: A Fresh Translation as a gift because, as a Bible Gateway blogger grid member, I agreed to review this updated edition by Zondervan honestly.

Initially published in 2011, The New Testament for Everyone by N.T. Wright is now in its third edition, and this third version is being reviewed.

Content

In this 526-page hardback book, the New Testament books are printed in full. On the “Contents” page, you can easily find the page number to access a List of Maps quickly, a Preface to the First and Second Editions, a Preface to the Third Edition, an Introduction, and a List of the 27 books of the New Testament. It is beneficial to read the prefaces and introduction to understand how the book came about and why there is a third edition, mainly because it notifies the reader that this edition now comes in an audiobook. The author notes that all four Gospels are “emphatically Jewish” in nature.

Format

The book’s format is enjoyable. It arrived with a nice slide-in book box, which showed the same front cover as the one on the book. Due to the book’s approximate 6×9″ size, it is suitable for sticking in a medium-sized purse, backpack, or briefcase. Inside the text, the subheadings within the Bible chapters are distinguished in a subtle and attractive green print. In addition, the page numbers and title of the Bible chapter include the same beautiful green print, creating a distinguishing feature from the easy-to-read and nicely spaced black print on crisp white pages. While I reviewed the hardcover book, one may choose a leather soft or an e-book version.

Pros and Cons

There are multiple pros and cons in this New Testament.

Pros

First, a description identifying important information about the Gospels, Acts, Letters, and Revelation occurs before each of the four sections mentioned. In this description, central themes are noted. Second, the maps are scattered within the book, mostly in Acts. Third, Bible teachers and readers gain needed knowledge with the glossary of words behind the text.

Cons

First, there was not an index of the chapter headings and subheadings. This would have helped a teacher and novice reader when looking for Biblical stories or topics. Second, the words of Jesus are in the same black print as the Bible’s content. Having Jesus’ words in red would have been a nice touch to include since many readers like the words of Jesus more pronounced.

Particulars

Per the author/translator, N.T. Wright states that this Bible is not a paraphrase but a translation. He admits he “tried to stick closely to the original language.” He also explains why this 3rd edition was needed. This author/translator informs the readers that this book is suitable for those who will probably never look at a commentary. That is why, he states, he gives background information necessary to those needing background knowledge. Wright says he “tried to use gender-neutral language throughout the Bible. He mentioned that when he refers to human beings, he may say “they” rather than “he or she.” Because of this last admission, I am rating this Bible a four-star.

Before Purchasing

As with all books, the reader should research the author/translator N.T. Wright to learn and discern for themselves his theological bent. Everyone can decide what Bible to read, so their choice might differ from this publication.

FaithGateway Store Link: https://bit.ly/3QrHrFC

Amazon Link: https://bit.ly/3S0ZLq8

BG²

#bgbg2, Bible Study, Book Review, Book Reviews, Most Recent Post, New Testament, Old Testament, The Bible

A Book Review: Timeless Truths Bible, 2023 by Thomas Nelson

A Book Review by Patti Greene

Capps, Matthew Z., ed. Timeless Truths Bible: One Faith Handed Down. For All the Saints. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2023.

I received a hardcover copy of the 2023 Timeless Truths Bible as a free gift because, as a Bible Gateway blogger grid member, I agreed to give an honest review of this New English Translation (NET) by Thomas Nelson Bibles.

First Impression

My first impression when I opened the Bible was that the print was too small. Upon further investigation, I learned that the Bible is printed in 9-point NET Comfort Print. In addition, the Bible is not set up like most Bibles, with two columns of Biblical content, which I usually like. However, there is a blank space on the side of each page for Bible art journaling or notes. This Bible is quite heavy, making it undesirable for people experiencing low muscle mass.

Different Bents

This Bible has different bents than most Bibles I have seen. First, it includes prominent Christian historians and their biographies and commentaries throughout the Bible. This input contains Irenaeus, Augustine, Wesley, Luther, Spurgeon, and more. Second, it also places a high emphasis on artwork. Scattered throughout the book are color photos of artwork. Third, random items are scattered throughout the Bible, such as critical creeds and confessions, Gregory of Nyssa, the Apostles Creed, and more. These additions allow those with a more profound interest in history and art to have a Bible, which might meet their intellectual longings.

Valuable Information

Although this Bible may not meet the needs of those who want a plain Bible to read, it contains valuable information that may help many in their Biblical research.

At the beginning of the Timeless Truths Bible, there is a list of abbreviations, a Bible books register, explanatory notes, an introduction to the New English translation, and a how-to-use Bible section.

In addition, there is an introduction to each book of the Bible for each sixty-six books. And as a bonus, this Bible has two silk bookmarks!

At the back of this 1682-page Bible, there is a bibliography, index, a descriptive list of the sacred artwork, and seven colored maps starting with the World of the Patriarchs through Jerusalem in the time of Jesus.

Consider before Purchasing

As I perused the Bible, I noticed no topic or verse index, which many Bible readers use and value immensely.

Overall, one should evaluate this Bible carefully before purchasing it to see if it meets their needs. For some, it might be a fantastic addition to their library. For others, they may be looking for a smaller content, larger print Bible.

Faith Gateway Store: bit.ly/3RtzaBU

Amazon Page: amzn.to/48fTCMB

BG²; #BibleGatewayPartner

#bgbg2, Bible Study, Most Recent Post, Sacred Snippets, Testimonies, Uncategorized

Sacred Snippet: Nature at its finest!

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I should have known that when my husband John left his suit and tie job, he would retreat to his roots. Yes, he majored in agriculture—a field I knew nothing about and still don’t.
 
Gratefully, John has found enjoyment in volunteering at the Coastal Prairie Conservancy for the past two years. This conservancy was formerly known as The Katy Prairie Conservancy. This group’s claim to fame is to sustain “a resilient Texas by preserving coastal prairies, wetlands, farms, and ranches to benefit people and wildlife forever.”¹
 
Today, I finally joined John to see what it was all about and to be his “personal assistant,” by pushing a computer key to advance the teaching slides while he taught a class. I passed with flying colors, and John was extremely happy!
 
I observed where he spends his Tuesdays and Fridays! And I took some pics while I was out there and matched them up with Bible verses. Yes, I am geeky that way.
 
However, as John says, “You can take a city girl to the country, but you can’t take the city out of the girl.” So true.
 
After today, I think I am ready for a church job in IT since I now feel qualified to push computer keys efficiently! I need to use my new DBU theological degree somewhere.
 
Is anyone hiring?
 
Have a blessed day.

greenenpastures.org

¹ Coastal Prairie Conservancy, 21 October 2023, Coastal Prairie Conservancy.

Bible Verses

LOVE
This, I command you, that you love one another.”
John 15:17
Love your spouse, your friends, the brethren, and others.
 
 
JOY
“For to a person who is good in his sight, he has given wisdom and knowledge and joy.”
Ecclesiastes 2:26
Share what God has taught you with others.
 
 
PEACE
“You will go out, enjoy, and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands.”
Isaiah 55:12
It was peaceful and beautiful out in nature. I should do it more often.
 
 
PATIENCE
“Brothers and sisters, be patient until the Lord comes again. A farmer patiently waits for his valuable crop to grow from the earth, and for it to receive the autumn and spring rains. You, too must be patient….” 
James 5:7-8
God uses the times we “have to be patient” to grow us and get us ready for His next assignment. I can’t wait to see what that will be. 
I do have some hopes and desires.
 
 
KINDNESS
“One gives freely, yet grows all the richer, another withhold what he should give, and only suffers want. Whoever brings blessing, will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.”
Proverbs 11:24-25
Be kind to others. We never know what kind of day, week, or life they have had.
 
 
GOODNESS
“I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait for the LORD, be strong, and take heart and wait for the LORD.”
Psalm 27:13-14
Waiting is hard, but keep serving the Lord while waiting, even if it takes years and years.
 
 
FAITHFULNESS
“Flowers of your faithfulness are blooming on the Earth. Righteousness shines down from the sky”
Psalm 85:11
God knows the paths He has for us! Travel His paths to see the flowers.
 
 
GENTLENESS
“But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”
1 Peter 3:15
I was really gentle with the computer keys!
 
 
 
SELF-CONTROL
“For the spirit, God gave us does not make us timid; it gives us power, love and self discipline.”
2 Timothy 1:7
Instead of going on the trails, I sat peacefully and with discipline to work on this post and study for Wednesday’s Bible study.
 
 
*Subtitles come from Galatians 5:22-23
Caregiving, Christian Living, Church and Ministry, God's Will, GreenePastures.org, How to Guides, Most Recent Post, Obedience, Patti Greene, Spiritual Growth

Continuing to serve God while Aging by Patti Greene

Click here to read the article.

Feel free to share, repost, and/or comment. I would love to hear from you. 

[Reprinted from The Baptist Standard.]

The same article is printed below. If you are anything like my dad, he would not click on any links! So, I posted the article below.

————–

Aging does not have to mean reducing our service to the Lord.

As I recently filled out my health history at my new heart specialist’s office, I reminded myself I have gray hair and crepey skin, and my weight loss program is not cutting it anymore.

Richard Stefanacci defines aging in the Merck Manual as “a gradual, continuous process of natural change that begins in early adulthood.” He believes becoming old is answered by looking at our chronological, biological and psychological age.

But nothing is mentioned about our spiritual age, which I think is a significant matter.

Let’s consider why some believers discontinue working for the Lord as they age, and the importance of renewing a relationship with the Lord until one’s body or cognition completely disappears.

Reasons our service diminishes with age

Multiple factors influence why aging folks cease working heartily, grow weary or drop out of church altogether. Some are physical limitations, such as driving restrictions or change in living location. In other cases, medical reasons such as eyesight, hearing and mobility issues affect one’s ability to serve.

However, some offer frivolous “reasons” for spiritual inactivity. They may believe the pastor isn’t “feeding” them anymore or feel worthless or left out at church. Others lose focus and fall away from the one true path, instead enjoying a sinful lifestyle or becoming distracted by golfing, lake houses and stock investments.

These circumstances and interferences can make serving the Lord challenging. This is understandable.

Fortunately, many still can experience a godly presence where they are.

Hope and renewal

If you fit into the category of one who has lost the joy of your salvation but wants to experience God again, there is hope.

In Experiencing the Presence of God, the late pastor A.W. Tozer states, “When we lift our inward eyes to gaze upon God, we are sure to meet friendly eyes gazing back at us” (p. 58).

Praise God if you have served him faithfully your entire Christian life and continue to do so by serving, studying the Bible, meditating and seeking him.

But if you have been a “pew sitter” for most of your Christian life, or one who has strayed or drifted from the Lord, understand there is no age limit where you can’t seek God again.

Death is inevitable. One never knows when that final day will come upon us.

A few years ago, on the day a new season was to start in my life, I fell headfirst down 13 wooden stairs. A trip to the emergency room confirmed a concussion. I had read enough to know many such falls are fatal.

Deep in my spirit during my recovery period, the Lord revealed the experience was to show me he was not finished with me yet. I needed that word to keep going and not waste my life on triviality.

God is not through with you, either.

You may have messed up. However, the Lord wants you to kindle afresh your life, and it can be done. He will come along and pick you up right where you are. And he can and wants to do it today. It is not too late. Your age is irrelevant to God. He wants you to return to the fold.

How to renew your relationship with the Lord

Decide, today, you want your life to be pleasing in his sight. Surrender as completely as you can to the Lord. Decide to live righteously. Repent and confess specifically the sins you have committed.

Avoid things that seek to take God’s place in your heart. Pursue God in all areas of your life.

Ask God to give you a hunger for his word. Read your Bible, seek his will, and pray daily.

Allow the Lord to speak to you through his word and his Holy Spirit. Thank the Lord for a second, third or fourth chance for allowing his presence in your life.

Here I am, Lord

The prophet Isaiah said to the Lord: “Here am I. Send me” (Isaiah 6:8 NASB).

The Lord used Isaiah powerfully, pleading for repentance and a restored life for the people of Judah.

If God could use Isaiah during a time of profound sinning among the people, he also can use you.

As a restored believer, you may be surprised at the circumstances God may place in your life. Ask God to show them to you, and then act upon his direction.

In my life, I have seen how one act of obedience leads me to the next experience or training I need from him, and the process snowballs year after year. Gradually, you will notice the fruits of the Spirit emerging in your life (Galatians 5:22-23 NASB).

Paul wrote: “Brothers and sisters, I do not regard myself as having taken hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14-15 NASB).

As for me, I will continue using my age-renewing crepe-corrector body lotion, because the tube says it will visibly improve my skin, but that is for the external “me.” But I am more concerned with the internal, and I pray you will be, too.

Patti Greene is a graduate of Baylor University and Dallas Baptist University, a member of Second Baptist Church in Houston, and the author of seven books. The views are those of the author.

 

Bible Study, Christian Living, Church and Ministry, Sacred Snippets, Spiritual Growth, The Bible

Sacred Snippet: Why do believers know so little about the Bible?

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____________________

Have you ever been challenged to ponder a spiritual question?

I have!  The question was, “Why do believers know so little about the Bible?” My semi-short answer and thoughts follow.

I have been a Bible teacher in church, homes, and outside venues, and I have been astonished (sort of) encountering people, even long-time believers, who know so little about the Bible.

When this occurs, I silently ask myself questions like…

– Does the Word go in one ear and out the other?

– Do they not ever look at their Bible outside of Sundays?

– Do they have selective memories?

– Does Satan wipe out what they have heard or learned?

– Does a person have medical memory problems?

– Is some sin blocking them from being involved in the Bible?

– Why don’t they take the Bible seriously?

– Are they really believers?

It baffles me that “so many know so little about the Bible” because since I accepted Jesus Christ 50 years ago, I have taken the Bible seriously from the get-go. I say that with as much humility as I can muster because I do not want it to come out prideful. “Lord, please forgive me if it is.” That is not my intent. I am not perfect—far from it, believe me. But what happened that was different?

To be effective in ministry, we should have a good handle on God’s Word. We should desire to read the Bible and learn what God wants us to do and what His will is. If we are disciples of Christ, we should not neglect the Word, and I mean the entire Word, including the Old and the New Testaments.

I believe the church should be used to lead people to Christ and then see them being transformed into Christ-like individuals.

While the church should be an instrument in one’s transformation, people make choices. They choose not to open their Bible. They choose not to read or study their Bible. And they choose not to attend church, Bible studies, or discipleship classes.

People must make the Bible a priority in their lives.

For a solid Bible believer, one act of kindness is to pray fervently for those who do not take the Bible seriously. Find out if they have a personal relationship with the Lord, encourage them to grow, and then stand by their side as they start the exciting life of knowing God through His Word and His Spirit.

And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect (Romans 12:2 NASB).

God Bless.