November 24, 2024

Girls With Swords: Chapter 8 – “Sword Words” (pgs 126-129)

May 14, 2013 by

Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks (Matthew 12:34)

God’s love is limitless. It overflows in abundance. Our author says on page 126 that “… because out of the abundance of God’s heart, he spoke the universe of galaxies into existence.” He spoke the world into existence! This power lives within us through the Holy Spirit when we proclaim Christ as Lord and Savior of our lives (Acts 1:7-8). Did you know that? The Word, this Power, knows no boundary. It is available to anyone, anywhere.

With that said, I have some questions for you.

Have you unleashed God’s power in your life?

When we truly have something to say, God finds a way to interpret it for all who need to hear.
When we yield ourselves to speak His words by the power of His Spirit, astonishing things can happen (pg. 128).

Will you choose to use your words in a way that removes yourself from the picture and glorifies God? (pg. 128)

For far too long the Word has been interpreted rather than proclaimed. We have gotten into the habit of passing it through the filter of human experiences, social preferences, current prejudices, and the limited counsel of the human mind rather than simply declaring what was so powerfully and eternally spoken and recorded. We’ve interpreted the gospel rather than expressed it (pg. 129, emphasis mine).

Will you speak in your flawed manner or tell of His flawless works? (pg. 128)

Our God Most High is triumphant. His glorious love and wondrous mercy know no bounds.
The gift of salvation is through faith in Him alone, and all who seek Him find grace and hope (pg. 128).

Will you be part of a unified voice by allowing His Spirit to fill you? (pg. 128)

Unifying ourselves with our Father’s purposes and language will initiate or begin anew God’s plan and unify a people around His purpose (pg. 129).

It was out of this love for us that He sent His one and only begotten Son to die a sinner’s death on a rugged cross. That kind of love is beyond human understanding. I find myself wanting to understand the ‘whys’ and the ‘hows’ so often! But, in my limited human understanding, I know it is impossible. As Lisa Bevere states on page 129, “it takes faith to declare a language we do not understand.” I have to trust that God is who He says He is. I have to trust in His sovereignty. I have to trust in His goodness. I have to trust even when I do have questions and I do not understand why things happen. I have to believe in God as my Father, who wants to hear my questions and concerns. He wants to hear from me. He wants me to turn to Him and study His language, our SWORD, His Holy Word. Through it, He will guide and direct me and answer those questions and soothe those doubts.

Because He is GOD.

GOD IS LOVE.

GOD IS GOOD. ALL THE TIME. EVERY TIME.

When we root ourselves in God, in His Word, our sword grows stronger. It finds substance (pg. 129). We are able to stand firm with confidence.

Have you thought about the answers to those questions I posed above? What are your answers? Be honest! Have a conversation with the Lord about them. They are not easy to own up to. But, God already knows the innermost parts of us. We just need to recognize it in ourselves, too, so we can work on whatever needs fixin‘! We are all just a work-in-progress til the day we meet our Savior face to face. Oh what a day that will be!

Let’s Pray:

Father, your Word is perfect. You speak truth and light into a dark world. Help us to shine brightly for your Kingdom in our sphere of influence. Convict us where we need to be convicted and help us own up to the things that may be hindering our growth. Our only desire is to follow You, Lord, wherever You lead us. We love You so much! In Jesus’ Name, AMEN!

Filed Under: Women's Ministry Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , ,

Girls With Swords: Chapter 7 Weekly Review – “Forging a Sword”

May 10, 2013 by

 

Welcome to Campground USA

Log Cabins, Nature Trails, Canoes,

Paddle Boats, Bikes, Fishing

Trivia anyone?  Aren’t we having so much fun in the midst of our study on Girlfriends With Swords by Lisa Bevere!!  I know I am.  This Christian life wasn’t meant to be drab, that’s for sure.

But, let’s get serious for a moment (if that’s possible with this gang) while we do a recap of where we are in our study.   In Chapter 6, our status changed: we went from being just an enlisted soldier in Basic Training to being a Warrior.  Oh yes, we are now on the front line of duty! 

My four girlfriends explained  our promotion in this way.

  • Teresa:  Using the teaching of the Apostle Paul in Hebrews 6, Teresa added:  Once a new believer understands the basic lessons, it is time to practice what was learned and “move forward” toward spiritual maturity. 
  • Jennifer reminded us that warriors are not hired, they are called.
  • Tonya emphasized the importance of being tempered to form character.
  • Diane talked about the importance of warriors getting rid of fear.  She reminded us that where God’s love is, fear doesn’t stand a chance.

That takes us up to tonight’s study on Forging a Sword, being led by my 4 girlfriends. Aren’t they amazing writers and speakers?   Let’s head on down to the bonfire and see what they have to say about Chapter 7. 

 Teresa 

What does it take to “Forge a sword?”  The word forge is a verb for a process much like the word mold. The dictionary defines these words as:

  •  Forge: (1)Make or shape (a metal object) by heating it in a fire or furnace and beating or hammering it.  (2)Move forward gradually
  • Mold: (1)A hollow container used to give shape to molten or hot liquid material (such as wax or metal) when it cools and hardens.

To mold a product, the product has to be melted, or softened, from its original form and poured into the mold to obtain the desired shape and size.  The mold then has to be shaken to remove all air bubbles from the finished product.  These bubbles can cause the product to crack, fall apart and ruin the end result.   

To forge something, take separate metals, heat them to a molten liquid, burn off the impurities, and prepare to meld them into the final product.  This intense heat leaves a liquid virtually free of imperfections and no “bubbles.” The original metal is not changed from what it originally was, but is so much more useful now. 

What does this have to do with you and me?  If we have made the commitment to follow Jesus, it’s time to submit to the original Blacksmith and let Him forge you into the character He needs you to be.

(Martha’s Note:  Lisa states that FIRE, WATER, and PRESSURE are the tools used to refine metal, temper steel, and create swords.  “The process of making a sword is a whole lot like the process of making a life.”   Jennifer, Tonya, and Diane speaks to each one of these ‘tools.’)

Jennifer

Fire and Water:  What does the Bible tell us to do when trials come into our lives?

  • Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. (Isaiah 43:1-2)         

Refinement is painful.  But these trials will strengthen us and, in turn, help us to forge the sword we will ultimately wield – the Word of God.

Friends, God is our Source of power and strength. He is trustworthy. What affliction are you struggling with today that you need to bring to God’s feet?

Tonya

Pressure:  What does the Bible tell us to do when pressures come into our lives?

“Count it all joy.”  (James 1:2-8)

  • Pressure and joy are not two words that are normally paired together in the world, but we need to remind ourselves that we only live in this world, we don’t think like it.
  •  Joy is something that is unaffected by circumstances.
  •  It is a state of mind and an orientation of the heart.
  • Joy is a settled state of contentment, confidence and hope.
  • Joy doesn’t mean that it is going to be easy.
  •  Joy isn’t happiness; it’s the knowledge that we are where we need to be for a season in order for us to be formed into the woman He wants us to be.

Lisa said:  “God wants us to thrive whether we are under pressure or free floating” and in order to thrive in all situations we must be prepared, we must be tempered. Tempered daughters of God are resilient.  We have the capacity to flourish under all types of trials in every season.

Diane

Pressure:  As Lisa tells us about her “doubtful moment” (John’s faith to give away 250,00 books) it brings me back to one of my very own doubt-filled moments.

It had been several months after my very last therapy session. I knew in my heart of hearts that I was healed, but as I stepped into my counselor’s office that day, the doubt that had been filling in my heart since the last time I was in that room followed me in.

As I was explaining all of my doubts, my dear counselor asked me a simple question. What are the things that you know that you know that you know are true?”

  • I am safe (Proverbs 18:10)
  • I am loved (John 3:16)

Knowing the truth is just not enough to keep the doubt away. The more we “know” something, the more Satan tries to convince us that we don’t know anything at all.

As a princess warrior in training we cannot let doubt consume us. We must empty ourselves into God so that He can consume us. No two princesses of the King are the same. We are all created for a unique and important purpose.

  •  It is time to wash away the doubt caused from past hurts or current hurts and hold tight to God’s promises that will never shift.
  • All we must do is empty our hearts of the doubts that have been filling up at His feet.
  • He will fill our hearts with HIS blessings. No more room for doubts, only His love.

*********

After Diane spoke, Praise and Worship began.  As I lifted my hands and face toward heaven, suddenly my mind took me back to a children’s church program my girls were in years ago.  Like the rest of the parents, I sat in the audience beaming from ear to ear as we watched our children singing and marching to a song. 

Tonight, I became that little girl.  I stepped away from the bonfire, and began softly singing and marching to the same song.  No longer was it just a cute little song to me.  It was as though I was coming to God as a little child, accepting His call on my life to be on the front line of duty in His army.  I could hear Him whisper in my ear:  “I yoke myself up with you and the way you go, I’ll be there to hold you up!”

Will you join me in singing this song?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vDIy5TUXovo

Let’s pray:  Father God, I come into agreement with my sister, Teresa, for the prayer she has already prayed over this group:  “We thank You for loving us enough to want to forge us into a unique creation and not just a molded image like so many others.   We submit our lives to the refining fire of Your love.  Remove the impurities and make us strong. In Jesus’ name, I pray.  Amen.”

***** 

Last Day of our Anniversary Giveaway!!

I hope you have enjoyed this week of celebration with us!  It has been such a blessing to see so many of you come out and post your comments on our blogs! I know it has truly blessed our bloggers!  Your words of encouragement have blessed all of us!

As we pray Martha’s prayer above, this brings me to the giveaway that we have for today.  It couldn’t have been scheduled for a better day. Between Teresa’s prayer that started our week, and Martha’s agreement in prayer with her that ended our week, this giveaway just fits perfectly!

As you go before the Lord each day, we would like for one blessed winner to cover herself with this amazingly beautiful, handmade Prayer Shawl that was made by one our very own Leadership members – Amy Butterfield.  Amy was such a blessing to put her crochet hook to work and get this gift ready for our Anniversary Giveaway!  Thank You so much, Amy!!  It is beautiful!!

PrayerShawl(2)

PrayerShawl(1)

How do you enter to win this beautiful Prayer Shawl?  All you have to do is read today’s blog and make a comment in regards to what the Lord said to you in today’s message.  That’s it!  

One blessed winner will be chosen and all winners for this week will be announced on our Facebook Community page TOMORROW!!!  So be sure to check out our page to see if YOU are one of the blessed winners!

ALL ENTRIES MUST BE COMPLETED BY 8PM CST TONIGHT.
WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED ON OUR FACEBOOK COMMUNITY PAGE ON MAY 11th.
Filed Under: Women's Ministry Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , ,

Girls with Swords – Chapter 7: Water / Fire (pgs. 106-111)

May 7, 2013 by

Day 2 of our Anniversary Celebration!

In honor of our 1-year Anniverary Celebration, we have chosen several prizes for giveaways this week to thank YOU for blessing us so much throughout this last year!  If it weren’t for our dear Sisters, YOU, we wouldn’t be here!  So from the bottom of our hearts, THANK YOU for all you do to bless our ministry!  We Appreciate You!!

Day 2 — This particular prize is one that I have personal experience with.  I implemented this prize in my life last year, and found it to be a lot more than I ever expected from it.  I grew in so many ways in my life, personally, emotionally, spiritually!  I would highly recommend it to anyone!!  But today, we want to bless you with it!  What is it, you ask???

TODAY’S GIVEAWAY IS A FREE ONE-HOUR SESSION WITH CHRISTIAN LIFE COACH MEGAN SMIDT!!  

GL header

Megan has offered this gift to YOU because she truly cares about women!  She wants to see women strong, healthy, living their lives intentionally!  Able to give all they have to our Lord & Savior!  So with that, ONE lucky winner will be chosen at the end of today!

How do you enter for this fabulous prize???  All you have to do is read today’s blog by Jennifer, and then leave a comment about something that spoke to you from her blog!  That’s it!!  Pretty easy, huh?

DEADLINE FOR ALL COMMENTS TO BE POSTED IS 8PM CST TODAY.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED ON OUR FACEBOOK COMMUNITY PAGE ON MAY 11th.  

 

Now, on with our study!!! 🙂

“Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.

Isaiah 43:1-2

This section of our book speaks of the trials we will go through in our lives (the water and the fire) and how this refinement helps to forge us into the women God created us to be. Refinement is painful. I am not going to sit here and lie to you, my dear sisters. But these trials will strengthen us and, in turn, help us to forge the sword we will ultimately wield – the Word of God.

The troubles we face in this world are either self-inflicted or God-ordained. As humans, we have a tendency to get ourselves into trouble and God will let us face the consequences of our decisions. But, He will ultimately turn our poor decision making for good. He is always good. Always. He wants us to have the best life possible; the life He created us to walk. I think we tend to get caught up in trying to put out the daily fires on our own instead of focusing our attention on the One who wants to put them out for us.

The trials and afflictions we will face are but a blink of an eye from an eternal standpoint. We do not have God’s viewpoint. The things with which we struggle seem too impossible, too heartbreaking, and too hard sometimes. It is just plain tough to see past the pain in front of our eyes. Believe me, I know.

For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

2 Corinthians 4:17-18

This verse is so very hard to grasp, isn’t it? It is for me. I have to ask God to help me focus on the unseen. It is too easy to focus and become consumed with what is seen, the temporary afflictions that dampen our light and make us doubt our faith. By His grace, His strength, and His power, I can and will do it. Every day, I realize how much I need Jesus…more and more and more.

Friends, God is our Source of power. He is our Source of strength. He is trustworthy. He is good. Always. No matter what you are facing today, God is with you and He loves you so very much. Turn your pain over to Him. Talk to Him. He will help you through it. Turn to His Word. Let it heal your soul. Let His promises soak into your being.

When we are weak…He is strong.

When we are powerless…He is power-full.

When we feel unloved…He loves us unconditionally.

What affliction are you struggling with today that you need to bring to God’s feet?

_______________

Let’s Pray:

Father, this world brings many troubles. Please help us to focus on YOU at all times, so that when trouble does come our way, we will be ready, sword in hand, to defend against the attack. Strengthen our resolve and help us face the pain we may be hiding. Help us to bring our troubles to You and not be held in bondage to our afflictions any longer. Give us fresh eyes to see our troubles from an eternal perspective. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen!

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HAPPY ANNIVERSARY Girlfriends Coffee Hour!!!

May 5, 2013 by

GCH_Anniversary

 

Woo Hoo!! Happy Anniversary to GCH!!!

1-year ago today, Girlfriends Coffee Hour published its first LIVE Online Bible Study on this website! We had just a few women sign-up for that study, and we had a blast!

Today, GCH, as we all so fondly call it, is now in 150+ Countries across the globe!! Never in a million years would I have ever dreamed that God could use a simple housewife from Southeast Wisconsin to help spread the Gospel!! Many times, I had to be reminded God’s God This!!  Don’t ever think that God can’t use just ordinary people!!  He can, and He will, if you let Him!!

Today, we have 20 women on our Ministry Leadership Team, who help keep this ministry functioning on a daily basis! Thank God, because there is no way this housewife from Wisconsin could do this on her own! I am so very BLESSED by this amazing Team of women who give so graciously of their time, prayers, support, and LOVE!! Truly without these women …. wow!

God has blessed this ministry in so many ways. Each day we dedicate GCH to Him in our prayers, and we give Him thanks for all that He has done, and continues to do.

The scripture that God gave us for this ministry is Proverbs 27:17 (NLT) “…as iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.” In this ministry, we are blessed to sharpen each other. We are blessed to hold each other accountable to building our relationship with our Heavenly Father, and being the Leaders that He has called us all to be! We are blessed to have such a Sisterhood in this ministry, where faith, friends, and fellowship flourish in our Fellowship & Study Groups!

I give God all praise, honor, and glory, for Girlfriends Coffee Hour! I hope you will help us celebrate this week! We will be giving away some amazing prizes this week in honor of our anniversary! Stay tuned … on Monday (tomorrow) we will announce the first prize!! These prizes are going to bless your socks off!!

Be sure to leave a comment below to let us know how GCH has been a blessing in YOUR life! We’d love to hear from you!

Thank You ALL so very much for joining us this last year! We hope to see you around for many more years to come!!

May the Good Lord Bless You,

Christi Wilson
Founder of Girlfriends Coffee Hour

Filed Under: At Home w/ GCH, Women's Ministry Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Girls With Swords: Chapter 6 Weekly Review – “Becoming a Warrior”

May 3, 2013 by

Click Here for Next Week’s Reading Schedule

Welcome to Campground USA

Log Cabins, Nature Trails, Canoes,

Paddle Boats, Bikes, Fishing

Here we are again – -continuing our study in Girlfriends With Swords, by Lisa Bevere. Tonight, we will try to grab hold of what Becoming a Warrior means.  But, first let’s play a game with Chapters 1-5.

You might say these chapters took us through Basic Training, preparing us to be a warrior in God’s army.  In an effort to make sure their groups are spiritually fit for the front line of duty, Amy, Christi, Laurie, and Kim devised a Girls With Swords Trivia Game.

Here’s how it works:  Christi made cards with words or scriptures taught in Basic Training. A contest is going on between Group 1 and Group 2 to see who can be the first to answer all the questions on the cards.

If you missed the games, take a minute and play.  On your mark!  Get Set!  Go!

 

GWS_TEST_Chapter1

GWS_TEST_Ch2

 

GWS_TEST_Ch3.jpg

 

GWS_TEST_Ch4

 

GWS_TEST_Ch5.jpg

Wasn’t that fun?  I need to review several of those scriptures.  I think I’ve been grazing and not feasting on the Word.  (Ugh)  Time to head over to the bonfire. I’m anxious to hear Teresa, Jennifer, Tonya, and Diane speak on Becoming a Warrior.

Teresa

Lisa gives us words a WARRIOR would understand:  strategy, intuition, vision, wisdom, patience, persistence, tenacity, a unified voice, and concerted effort. This requires us to develop Maturity as a Spiritual Warrior.

The Apostle Paul spoke to people in Hebrews 6 about becoming mature Christ followers. 

“So let us stop going over the basic teachings about Christ again and again. Let us go on instead and become mature in our understanding. Surely we don’t need to start again with the fundamental importance of repenting from evil deeds and placing our faith in God.  You don’t need further instruction about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment.  And so, God willing, we will move forward to further understanding.”  (NLT)

The basic teachings are very important.  Once a new believer understands the basic lessons, it is time to practice what was learned and “move forward” toward maturity. 

We have a CHOICE to believe, a CHOICE to mature,
and a CHOICE to live in a way that brings Honor and Glory to God the Father.

Jennifer

Girlfriends, warriors are not hired; they are called. David had an elite group of men fighting with him. They were not soldiers, hired to do a particular job. They were called to the task.

As Lisa said:  ”You are at once a daughter and a warrior.”  There is no separation between the two. If you are a part of God’s family—a part of His army—then you are one of His warriors.

I think many of us are scared to be warriors.  We want to just “get by.” But, I am challenging you today to rise up!

Face Your Fear Today and
Put Your Trust in God!

Tonya  

All soldiers are trained, but in addition to being trained, a warrior will be tempered.  For example:

  • A warrior isn’t quick to teach a lesson; they aren’t quick to avenge a wrong done.
  • They are compelled to offer grace and compassion, and to show God’s love.
  • They are led by God to do what is needed when it is needed, whether it is to offer grace, or to stand up and fight.
  • Warriors seize the opportunity to make a difference in an area where they can bless others and where God’s love can shine through them.

Lisa said: “the processing of tempering may not be pleasant or quick,”  but the outcome is this:  “the warrior woman, not only sees what our enemy is doing, but can follow God’s lead into battles with His promises in our hearts.’”

Are you ready to sign on to be
more than a soldier?

Diane

Have you opened your ears and heard the Lord call your name?  Are you covering your ears with fear of the unknown after you hear Our Mighty King whisper His warrior-princess’s name? 

  • Fear will always be a part of our lives, but it does not have to be the driving force behind our actions or lack thereof. 
  •  Fear, when placed in the right manner, will only drive us closer to God Himself.
  • We must fear God and keep His commandments.  We do this by coming to a revelation of Who God truly is and what He has truly done for us.  This revelation drives us to be obedient because of the deep love we possess for our One and Only King. 

All of us have a perfect will for our lives, and also a perfect love that drives out any fear that tries to prevent us from living out God’s perfect will for us. 1 John 4:18 says:  There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment.

As warrior-princesses-in-training,
we all possess God’s perfect love in our hearts.
Where God’s love is, fear doesn’t stand a chance.

**********

After Diane spoke, praise and worship lasted into the midnight hour under the glow of the heavenly lights. 

Something else very exciting has been taking place at our meetings.  Word has gotten around the campground about “those women” who gather nightly at the bonfire.  First there were one or two outsiders who visited the meetings, and now a big crowd has joined us.  Lisa said:  “Warriors will lead and irresistibly compel others to join the cause.” 

You go, girlfriends!  MIGHTY WARRIORS YOU ARE!

Let’s pray:  Father God, I thank You that You have called us to be warriors.  May we not take Your calling carelessly, but serve You with honor, and free of fear.  In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen

*****

If you would like to join us for the “Girls with Swords” Online Bible/Book study, click HERE to be taken to our sign-up page.  Once you complete the enrollment process, we will email you further details.  We hope you will join us!

Filed Under: Women's Ministry Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Girls With Swords: Chapter 6 – “The Enemy’s Target” – “The Original Warrior” (pgs 84-90)

April 30, 2013 by

war·ri·or
/ˈwôrēər/
Noun: (esp. in former times) A brave or experienced soldier or fighter.
Synonyms: fighter – soldier – combatant

I am reading through a Chronological Bible with my church this year. We are currently reading about David and I was drawn to a study note in my Life Application Study Bible as it relates to this section of our book. Here it is verbatim:

David surrounded himself with great warriors, the best of the Israelite army. What qualities made them worthy to be David’s warriors and servants? (1) They had practiced long and hard to perfect their skills (with bow, sling, and spear); (2) they were mentally tough and determined (“fierce as lions”); (3) they were physically in shape (“as swift as deer”); (4) they were dedicated to serving God and David. Weak leaders are easily threatened by competent subordinates, but strong leaders surround themselves with the best. They are not intimidated by able and competent followers. (1 Chronicles 12:1-7, note 12:1ff)

Now, although this passage is referring more to the actual men who fought in the battles, I feel that this passage can be applied to us as women warriors today.

  1. We must study the Word, delight in it, meditate on it day and night (Psalms 1:2). It must soak into our being and become a part of who we are and who we want to portray to this world. We should strive to draw into God’s presence every single day so that we can strengthen ourselves for whatever battles lay ahead of us.
  2. Studying the Word, our s(word) gives us strength and courage. It drives out fear. It helps us move forward when God gives us that nudge to do what we know we must do. It helps us to be tough and to stand strong against the attacks of the enemy.
  3. God wants us to lay aside all of our desires and offer ourselves as a living sacrifice to Him (Romans 12:1), to put all of our energy and focus at His feet and trust Him to guide us where we need to be.
  4. By studying the Word and placing our trust in God, we are pronouncing with undivided loyalty that we will serve the Lord and Him alone.

Girlfriends, warriors are not hired; they are called. David had an elite group of men fighting with him. They were not soldiers, hired to do a particular job. They were called to the task. Do you know that…”You are at once a daughter and a warrior” (page 86)? There is no separation between the two. If you are a part of God’s family—a part of His army—then you are one of His warriors. I think many of us are scared to be warriors, though. We want to just “get by.” But, I am challenging you today. It is time to rise up!

Are you not moving forward with something God is calling you to do? DO IT!

Is fear preventing you from living the glorious life God has planned for you?

FEAR_GWS_Ch6

Having trouble forgiving someone who hurt you deeply? TAKE YOUR BURDEN TO THE LORD. LET HIM HAVE IT. AND FORGIVE.

Ladies, our Lord needs His warrior daughters. Whatever your problem, take it to Him. Soak in His Living Word and let Him speak to you. He will guide you…if you let Him.

Let’s Pray: Father God, help us to rise up as the warrior daughters You created us to be! We know that Your perfect love casts out all of our fears. Help us to claim this promise from Your Word today and place our trust fully in You. Whatever each of these ladies is facing today, Father, I pray that You speak directly to her heart, show her the next step she should take. Surround her with Your comforting and loving presence. I know how much You love every single one of us, Lord. Help us to live the glorious lives You designed us to live. In Jesus mighty name, I pray, AMEN!

Just DO IT!

Jennifer

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Girls With Swords: Chapter 5 Weekly Review – “The Cross as a Sword”

April 26, 2013 by

Click Here for Next Week’s Reading Schedule

 

Welcome to Campground USA

Log Cabins, Nature Trails, Canoes,

Paddle Boats, Bikes, Fishing

Yep, that’s the sign entering our campground where we gather around the bonfire nightly to discuss Girls With Swords by Lisa Bevere. 

How about that meeting we had last night discussing Chapter 4!  The Holy Spirit moved upon Christi, and it was as though fire came down from heaven as she spoke about taking back all that Satan has stolen from us. Didn’t we have a Hallelujah time dancing on top of the old devil’s head! 

And speaking of a fire within them—Jennifer, Teresa, Tonya, and Diane did as they answered the questions:  “Where is the Battle?” and “Who is my Enemy?”  

  • Jennifer put it to us straight!  Our war is not with each other; it is with Satan.
  • Teresa laid out God’s plan of Redemption: “One Heart, Vision, Purpose, Name, Kingdom, Mandate.  We could be the answer to Jesus’ prayer He prayed for us at The Last Supper by becoming ONE. 
  • Tonya reminded us that we must battle to become ONE, using the tools God has given us in Galatians 5:22-26. 
  • Diane told her testimony of how the thief had come to steal, kill, and destroy her. But, Jesus came to give abundant life, and she didn’t listen to the lies of the enemy.
  •  Praise and Worship ended the meeting with Heaven’s angelic choir joining in.

 I just gotta tell you about a childhood memory I had as I was walking back to my cabin after the meeting.  I began thinking about the cattle farm I grew up on in Georgia.  I loved watching Daddy’s herd of cattle grazing out in the field.  The old cows would fill their bellies full of hay and then lie down under the shade trees and wait until it was time to get up and graze some more.  It was as though they lived only “to be fed.”

A thought suddenly hit me as I recalled that memory, and I stopped and prayed: “Father God, help me not to just graze on the things I am learning.  May I feast upon your word, and really ‘get who I am in Christ.’ May I not lie down like Daddy’s old cows after feasting.  Instead, may I rise up and use my Sword as a weapon in my daily life.”

Well, the sun has gone down here at the campground.  It’s time to make my way on over to the bonfire.  Tonight we are discussing Chapter 5—“The Cross as a Sword.” 

Teresa pinpoints the Crossroads.

Lisa says: “Just as Adam stole the fruit of a forbidden tree and caused all within him to die, Jesus died on a barren tree and thus became its fruit that all in Him might live.”  

You and I are part of the fruit of Adam, and if we accept Jesus’ gift on the cross, we are His fruit as well. Because we are Adam’s fruit we have a sinful, hurtful part of us.  Many of you have been hurt.  Your hurt is holding you back from the freedom and abundant life Jesus Christ has to offer.  If you have buried secrets, living in shame and regret, you are at a crossroads. 

  • One path leads to…loneliness, embarrassment, shame, pride, just getting by. 
  • The other path leads somewhere new and scary, feels vulnerable and shakey.
  • It requires us to walk one step at a time lighted by faith, trust, hope, and love.
  • But,it binds us to other travelers who are ready and willing to share their life story.

“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17).

Could we get together, talk, and share our stories?

Jennifer spoke on Transformation.

Isaiah and David prophesied that God’s chosen people would kill His only Son. The religious leaders thought that by killing God’s Son they would get to steal His inheritance.  “None of the rulers of this age understood this, for if they had, they would not have crucified The Lord of glory” (1 Corinthians 2:8). 

Lisa asks the question:  “What blindsided each and every ruler of that age? They could not see the transforming power of The Cross.”

What about you?

  • Do you see the transforming power of The Cross?
  • Do you live a transformed life?
  • Do you live fully believing that Christ died for you?
  • It is one thing to know about The Cross and what happened that day on Calvary.
  • Do you live in a way that your life represents this knowledge?

We were saved, forgiven, healed, loved, graced, empowered, and restored “in Christ” at the Cross.  It was the dead tree that brought us all back to life. 

You were already transformed because of the Cross.

The question is – Have you accepted it? Are you living it?

Tonya spoke on the power of The Cross.

“But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation, having abolished in His flesh the enmity, that is, the law of commandments contained in ordinances, so as to create in Himself one new man from the two, thus making peace, and that He might reconcile them both to God in one body through the cross, thereby putting to death the enmity” (Ephesians 2:13-16).

Lisa said:  “On the cross God leveraged all that He was for all that we could be.”

  • Jesus died on the Cross, so that we could one day fulfill our potential.
  • The Cross brings us together.
  • The Cross lifts us up above any attack used against us.
  • Christ created the bridge needed between our neighbors and ourselves, between races, between genders, between ages, between classes.

The Cross has the power to unify all who are willing to embrace it.

In Christ the far-off and the wandering come near.

Diane spoke on the Scapegoat.

Everyone’s journey to The Cross is different.  We can all relate with the scapegoat in different areas as we journey to The Cross.   

Guilt     Lonely nights     Oppression     Rejection

Jesus knows the pain and the hurt behind each and every word used to describe what a scapegoat represented.  Yet, this pain was all taken with Jesus on the Cross as He became the ultimate sacrifice. Lisa is right:  The Cross is a Sword of Love.

“Yet it was our weakness He carried; it was our sorrows that weighed Him down.  And we thought His troubles were a punishment from God, a punishment for His own sins!  But He was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins.  He was beaten so we could be whole.  He was whipped so we could be healed.  All of us, like sheep, have strayed away.  We have left God’s paths to follow our own.  Yet the Lord laid on Him the sins of us all” (Isaiah 53:4-6).

“Ladies, we must pick up His Sword and follow Jesus to Heaven!”

After Diane spoke, many women shared their painful past as Teresa had suggested.  Suddenly, a woman spoke out boldly:  “Let’s lay hands on these women that God would restore the years that the locusts and canker worm has eaten up!”

This lady has “got it.”

She knows who she is in Christ and is applying the Sword to the hurting.

Praise and Worship followed with old hymns of the church flowing throughout the campground: Near the Cross, At the Cross to name a couple.  

The smell of s’mores roasting nearby filled the air, and what’s that other smell I smell?  Could it be the aroma of Christ?  (Ah, how sweet it is!)

Let’s Pray:  Father God, may we become a living testimony of who we are in Jesus and know that, because of the Cross, You have equipped us to walk in You and defeat anything the enemy might throw at us.  In Jesus’ name, I pray.  Amen.

*****

If you would like to join us for the “Girls with Swords” Online Bible/Book study, click HERE to be taken to our sign-up page.  Once you complete the enrollment process, we will email you further details.  We hope you will join us!

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Girls With Swords: Chapter 5 – “Who Was Responsible for the Cross?” (pgs 66-72)

April 23, 2013 by

“Isaiah and David prophesied that God’s chosen people would kill his one and only begotten Son. The religious leaders thought that by killing God’s Son they would get to steal his inheritance.” (pg 67)

None of the rulers of this age understood this, for if they had, they would not have crucified The Lord of glory. (1 Corinthians 2:8)

“What blindsided each and every ruler of that age? They could not see the transforming and triumphant power of the Cross.” (pg 67)

Do you see the transforming and triumphant power of the Cross?

Do you live a transformed and triumphant life?

Do you live fully believing that Christ died for you?

Can you accept that truth into your heart and  truly, without a doubt, believe it? It is one thing to know about the Cross and what happened that day in Calvary. It is one thing to know what the Cross represents—freedom, forgiveness, love, mercy, redemption, among others. But do you live in a way that your life represents this knowledge? Have you accepted this as your own truth, that Christ died for YOU?  YOU, the single momma trying to make ends meet. YOU, the woman who cannot have kids. YOU, the woman who carries shame from her past. YOU, the woman who has a hard time forgiving. He died for YOU, for me, for every single one of us; regardless of anything that has happened in our lives. No matter what we have done, it was finished on that Cross.

Live triumphantly knowing that you are loved. You are wanted. You are known. You cannot do this life on your own. You cannot forgive on your own. You cannot move through the hardship and pain of your past on your own. You were not made to. If you are wondering why you struggle so much with a stronghold in your life, ask yourself: have I let God into this place? Have I allowed Him to work on my heart in this area? Christ will not barge His way into your life. He must be invited in. If your finances are a mess, you must invite Him in so that you and He can work on fixing what is broken. If your marriage is on the verge of separation or divorce, you must let Him in so that He can help you restore all that lays in shambles.

He is the only One who can do it. And He desires to fix your brokenness even more than you. He wants you to be whole. Let Him in. Let Him do His work. He is the only One who can do it.

I feel like there is this thinking in our society that we must fix our problems on our own, by our own power and might. We do a pretty good job of seeing other peoples’ problems, and how to fix those…but when it comes to our own lives, it is not so easy. We get defensive, we struggle, we read book after book trying to fix ourselves. But, have you fully turned this area of your life over to Christ? Have you let Him in to do the work He needs to do in your heart?

“Because of Him (Christ), we no longer exist in Adam. We live in Christ and are seated with him as we walk on earth.” (pg 69)

Transformation is not an easy process. But, we have a new life because of the Cross. We no longer walk in sin and death. “We were saved, forgiven, healed, loved, graced, empowered, and restored “in Christ”” (pg 71). “It was the dead tree that brought us all back to life” (pg 72). You must know and understand— you were already transformed because of the Cross. The question is – have you accepted it? Are you living it?

Let’s Pray:

Father God, the Cross represents so many things, but ultimately it shows us Your unfailing LOVE and GRACE toward us. We are triumphant because of the Cross. Help us to live triumphantly in You every day on this Earth. For those areas of our lives that we have not let You into, today we turn it over to You. Help us fix what is broken. Show us a new way. Guide us into the triumphant and abundant life that You have already prepared for us. In Jesus Name, Amen!

Live transformed and triumphant,

Jennifer

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Girls With Swords: Chapter 4 Weekly Review – “The Battleground”

April 19, 2013 by

Welcome to Campground USA

Log Cabins, Nature Trails, Canoes,

Paddle Boats, Bikes, Fishing

That’s where we are – over 125 women – camping at Campground USA, studying Girls with Swords by Lisa Bevere. During the day, women huddle in small groups throughout the campground, becoming “doers of the Word.”

  • They have grabbed hold of Lisa’s statement:  “We are a TARGET of the enemy, not because of something we have done, but most likely because of something satan knows we are going to do.”  (Do I hear an “AMEN”  to that!)
  • A sight to see that will “bless your socks off, is women walking the nature trails quoting God’s Word from their Pink Bedazzled Sword.  (Diane, the devil doesn’t stand a chance when he sees PINK coming at him!)
  • Excitement has filled the campers’ hearts with Teresa’s urging to become a HERO in this battle, and join Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Rahab listed in the Hall of Faith.  (After all, they are cheering us on!)
  •  Tonya put to rest any fears the women had of becoming a superhero:  “It’s not by my might, nor by my power but by His spirit.”   (You got that right, Tonya!)
  •  PRAYER is really shaking things up!  Would you believe I saw Coleen, Erin, and Merol doing cartwheels?  It excites them seeing women putting their armor on everyday and linking it up with prayer. (Check’em out behind Cabin #4 – -woohooo!) 
  •  PRAISE AND WORSHIP at the end of each nightly session is just out of this world. Even the “city girls,” who would never set foot inside a campground think they are in heaven!  (Let’s don’t tell them any different.)   

As night approaches, they gather around the bonfire to discuss the assigned chapter.  Tonight, Chapter 4,  The Battleground, is the topic of discussion. My girlfriends will answer the questions “Where is the battle?” and “Who is my enemy?”

Jennifer 

What I have to say may sound harsh, but I’m going to give you 8 points that are a reality!  

  1. We spend our time and energy fighting each other.
  2.  Our war is not with any political party, alternative lifestyle, social issue, family member, pastor, President of the United States, or any other worldly circumstance.  
  3. Our war is with Satan.
  4. When he sees us fighting with each other, he laughs; when he can cause division and strife, he wins.
  5. Unbelievers are watching Christians. They are trying to see if we live our lives differently than they live theirs.
  6. We cannot have a negative spirit toward anyone and be right with God.
  7. We must take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5).
  8.  We must model our leader, Jesus Christ, who tells us to:

This, girlfriends,  is the answer to how we defeat the enemy.

Teresa

 Did you know that there is a prayer that Jesus prayed that has not been answered YET?  How can that be? In John 17:20-23, at The Last Supper, Jesus prays for you and me:

“I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word that they may all be one, just as You, Father, are in me, and I in You, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that You have sent me.  The glory that You have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, I in them and You in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that You sent me and loved them even as You loved me.

God’s plan for redemption includes: One Heart   One Vision   One Purpose   One Name   One Kingdom   One Mandate

 I submit to you that we would then become the answer to the prayer Jesus prayed.

Tonya

Jesus fought a battle larger than any we could imagine.  He died on the cross and won that battle so we could handle the battles He knew would follow.  This means, that sometimes we must battle to become ONE.

Satan uses adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, and revelries to divide and separate us from our Heavenly Father (Galatians 5:19-21).

But, God created a list of tools to fend off these attacks: love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control (Galatians 5:22-26).

There are times where we have to hold up our swords to protect our joy and peace.  As Lisa says:

“You don’t set up camp in hell…you journey through it.”

 All of a sudden, Christi, jumped to her feet.  Ladies, I feel on FIRE tonight! God WANTS you to hear this!

Never be afraid to enter the enemy’s camp and take back what he has stolen from you!! God has already won this battle, and He will restore the years the locusts has eaten!!! Do not fear! We serve a Mighty God!!! He will never ask you to stand for something if He thought you were not able to!

Enter the enemy’s camp, get mad, put the enemy under your feet, and take back what he has stolen from you!! It is yours!! Stomp on his head and tell him NO!!!! No more satan!!!! You are defeated!!! You have not won this battle, God has, and I am standing with my God with the sword in my hand, and I send you back to the pit of hell where you belong!!

Ladies, please get this!!!! You have ALL authority, not just some authority, but ALL authority over the enemy!!! Don’t let him lie to you any longer and tell you that you are defeated!!! You are not!! You have victory in the name of JESUS!! Please get that!!! Take your marriage back, your rebellious children back, your health back!! Stand in victory with your sword in hand, and dance on the enemy’s head!!!

Oh baby, I’m preaching myself happy!!! Dance with me on satan’s head tonight!! I stand with you as you take back what he has stolen from you…what is rightfully yours!!!!

 I (Martha) am a very conservative person, but something got a hold of me! I heard myself saying: “Preach it, Sister Christi, preach it!  Come on ladies, let’s dance.”  And with that, such dancing like you never witnessed went on around that campfire as we danced on satan’s head, and took back what he stole from us.  They all began to sing “Look What the Lord Has Done”:  

 Diane finished the chapter with her personal testimony.

I would like to focus on the following TRUTH.

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms (Ephesians 6:12).

This reminds me of my past. At one point in my life it was easy for me to blame the someone who robbed me of my innocence and even easier for me to blame myself. I learned that the roots of my problems were not people or my own thoughts; they were the lies Satan was feeding me.

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. (John 10:10)

Jesus has come so that WE MAY HAVE ABUNDANT LIFE.  Satan will try to bring back the pain and memories of people who hurt you.  BUT —

The more you grow in your relationship with God, the stronger defense you will have against Satan.

And so it was – -Diane, through her own experience, had been able to join Jennifer, Teresa, and Tonya in answering the questions:  “Where is the Battle?” and “Who is my Enemy?” 

Women lingered by the bonfire and continued to worship the Lord.  The sounds of other campers filtered in and, what’s that other sound I hear?  Could it be Heaven’s Angelic Choir joining us in Praise and Worship?  (Breath-taking.)

*****

Let’s Pray:  Father God, we are so grateful that You have taught us where our battles are and who the real enemy is.  May we realize Your Word equips us for this battle.  You and You alone are our strength, our shield, our strong tower.  In Jesus’ name, I pray.  Amen.

*****

If you would like to join us for the “Girls with Swords” Online Bible/Book study, click HERE to be taken to our sign-up page.  Once you complete the enrollment process, we will email you further details.  We hope you will join us!

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Girls With Swords: Chapter 2 Weekly Review – “A Sword is Born.”

April 5, 2013 by

Click Here for Next Week’s Reading Schedule

Last week, “the 5 girlfriends on their road trip,”  voted unanimously to continue their journey into The Prince of Darkness Territory, despite knowing they were a TARGET.  However, they realized the key to being victorious in battle against the enemy was choosing the right WEAPON.  To get their thoughts together, they pulled over at a rest stop. 

While they were standing there in the moonlight, two bus loads of women pulled into the parking lot, and about 125 women made their way over to where the five girlfriends were gathered. Four women stepped up and introduced themselves as Amy, Christi, Laurie, and Kim, the leaders of the group.  “We’ve heard about your decision to enter into the Prince of Darkness Territory, and we want to join forces with you,” Christi said.  

The 5 girlfriends welcomed them, and told the women that they were in the process of choosing the weapon they would use for the battle ahead.  A murmur could be heard among the crowd of women at the mention of a weapon for self-defense.  The consensus of the crowd seemed to be that “heavy artillery guns” should be bought before driving any further into enemy territory.

But, knowing this was not the answer, Jennifer hopped up on top of a picnic table nearby.  With her Bible lifted up toward heaven, it was a sight to behold, as the moonlight beamed down on her as she spoke very eloquently and simply about the only weapon to use.

“In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. He existed in the beginning with God. God created everything through Him, and nothing was created except through Him. The Word gave life to everything that was created, and His life brought light to everyone. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it” (John 1:1-5, NLT).

“So the Word became human and made His home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen His glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son” (verse 14).

His Word (The sword) stands alone. Nothing I can add to it will make it better!

A hush swept across the group of women gathered.  It was obvious many of them were thinking,

“Are you saying that God’s Word can be used as a Sword?”  

Teresa was the next one to step on top of the picnic table to address the crowd. 

“Ladies, we have been handed a sword—a God Sword.  Ephesians 6 addresses the Armor of God that we are to put on daily to protect ourselves from spiritual attack.  Verse 17 says this, “Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”  The Sword of the Spirit is the Word of God—my Bible. 

In her book, Girls with Swords, Lisa Bevere says she had a revelation that “…many of God’s daughters in this generation are unarmed, ill equipped and unprepared.  This means they are at risk and incredibly vulnerable to deception.”

I proclaim tonight that:  “As Christ-followers we need to be properly equipped with the whole Bible, not just the pieces we like and disregard the rest.”

Next, Tonya, addressed the crowd.  She admitted something about The Sword in her life that all the ladies seemed to relate to: 

“There have been times in my life where I have felt beaten down, like I was unable to pick anything up; times where I have felt I couldn’t read the word of God; times where I felt I couldn’t even pray.” “But, I also know what it feels like to have the sword renewed in my life—to pick up the Bible and have God lead me to the scripture I needed to read that day, to say a prayer, and to feel His presence.

As Lisa Bevere said in her book, Girls With Swords, it is time for the church to know what a girl with a sword can do, it’s time for Satan to know what a girl with a sword can do, and it’s time that we believe this ourselves—that we take up our swords and declare what God has said in His Scriptures.

Next, Diane hopped on top of the picnic table.  “Ladies, these are the words that I know God wants YOU to hear tonight.”

“And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:20

Do you believe these words spoken by Jesus is God’s Living Word?  No matter how badly Satan attempts to discourage us, these words will always remain true.  I have found the more time I spend in God’s Word; the more I feel the truth of these words.  The more I learn the power of the “sword” God has given me to deter Satan’s attacks, the more thankful I become that God has already fought my battles for me. 

HeIsVictorious

**********    

After Diane spoke, a murmur could be heard among the 125 plus gathered at this rest stop.  I, Martha, did a little eavesdropping just to hear some of their comments.  Here are some of the things I heard them saying.

“I totally believe the Word of God!  It’s the flesh that gets in the way!”

“Everything we need or we will need is hidden in His Word, and we search it out like buried treasure.” 

“I need to pick up the whole word and start really listening to His Word, not just reading it.”

“You wouldn’t go into battle without being extremely familiar with your sword, right?  We wouldn’t make it out alive.  Same with this world.  These battles can kill us spiritually and defeat us if we aren’t in His word. So lets prepare. Lets really get in His word. Ahead of time is so much better than in the midst.”

“When the word is alive in us, we can weather any storm knowing that Jesus is with us and is greater than the one who is in the world. The sword is our weapon. Lets declare the victory.”

“For the Word of God is living and effective and sharper than any double-edged sword, penetrating as far as the separation of soul and spirit, joints and marrow.  It is able to judge the ideas and thoughts of the heart” [Hebrews 4:12].

Finally, Christi, the lady who appeared to be in charge of both groups on the buses, stepped up on the picnic table, and with a voice of authority proclaimed:

 “We should be seeing the sick healed, the lame walk, the blind see, cancers falling off of people, lives miraculously changed because of Him!! We should be laying hands on the sick and through the power of the Holy Spirit, see them become whole again! We should be spreading the gospel so much more than what we are.”

And with that, such shouting like you never heard broke out all over that rest stop.  And then—with their Swords lifted up toward heaven, the women began to worship the Lord as the moonlight from above beamed down on them. 

They had united and settled on their weapon for battle—God’s Word!

 

Let’s Pray:  Father God, we are so grateful for your Word.  It is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path, a light into our path.  Help us never to use it in pieces, but make use of the fullness of God.  In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.

*****

If you would like to join us for the “Girls with Swords” Online Bible/Book study, click HERE to be taken to our sign-up page.  Once you complete the enrollment process, we will email you further details.  We hope you will join us!

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