Protect That Good Thing
Good Morning, My Cherished Siestas! The sun is barely coming up and I am just ending my quiet time but I felt a strong compelling of the Holy Spirit to share something with you out of my time with God. I don't have long because Keith and Beanie are waiting on me to walk but, at the risk of sounding mystical which I don't mean to do, I think I'm supposed to say it succinctly then leave it between you and God. (He and I have talked about it between ourselves as well.)
"Because of this I remind you to rekindle God's gift that you possess...For God did not give us a Spirit of fear but of power and love and self-control...PROTECT THAT GOOD THING entrusted to you, through the Holy Spirit who lives within us." 2 Timothy 1:6,7,14 New English Translation
Two things:
1. Don't let that precious gift God has given you lay dormant. Rekindle it in the power and passion of Christ Jesus! Use it at every God-given (as opposed to man-driven) opportunity. Gifts mature and increase with time and practice if we have a healthy, lively relationship with Christ through His Word.
2. Protect that gift (or those gifts) ferociously from shifting from the power and anointing of the Holy Spirit to the determination and grit or rote action of the flesh. (Galatians 3:3) I implore us all in the great and saving Name of Jesus to resist spiritual laziness and keep in step with the Spirit. It's easier to obey laws and keep our rituals than to be led of the Spirit. Galatians 5:25 Fiery fresh relationships with Jesus and boldness to ask Him to make Himself conspicuous through the gifts He has entrusted to us!
Rekindle and protect that gift, Darling One!!
posted by Beth @ 6:25 AM
161 Comments
161 Comments:
It never ceases to amaze me how the Lord speaks so directly and specifically. My friend and I were just talking about this very thing the other day and I've been so convicted about letting myself get sidetracked from my calling. Thank you for being obedient. I love you and thank you for how you minister to me.
STEF
This is God's word to me this morning! It fits a couple of places in my life. Thank you, Beth for listening to the Lord and passing it on!
Phyllis from
I needed that this morning Beth! Thanks for sharing!
Love, Sarah
As I sit in tears, God has spoken directly to my heart through you, Beth, once again. Thank you so much for being His willing servant. Although I know you generally do anyway, please pray for this siesta. I need Him more than I care to admit and need to be changed deep in my spirit. Precious Father, heal me....show me the way.
Love In Christ,
Lisa
Two weeks ago I started a new job (my second career in life, if you will!!) and my prayertime has suffered. The Lord was talking to my heart about it all the way to school this morning and your blog post was even more confirmation. I'VE GOT TO GO TO BED EARLIER!!! Yes, I was shouting but only at myself!!! Thanks for posting before walking w/your 'fam'!!
Mel in East TN
mel_soprano@yahoo.com
Music is the true meaning of life ~ a gift from God
Thank you! I really needed and appreciate that word this morning.
Thank you, Beth, for being a vessel and using your gift to spur us on!
I am so thankful for your precious reminder this morning!
Blessings,
Mandy <><
Beth,
Thank-you for being obedient and sharing. From someone who at times feels like I have been beat down to the ground and then trampled on in the last few years, I needed that Word of encouragement. Because for me it is encouragement...God has in the past few months renewed something in me and taken what was meant for harm and is bringing good out of it. And I praise Him for that. And I thank Him for using you to remind me and so many others to re-stir the gift within us, protect it and and to enter in to a fresh fiery relationship with Him. Thank-you sweet sister!
Thanks for a great reminder!
Beth,
Thank you for that word today. I want that fire to be present daily and evident in my life. God is so good!!!
Dear Beth,
What a way to start the day! Thank you so much for yielding to the Holy Spirit with that word. I am so quick to compare myself with others and find my own gifts lacking. If I would only follow the lead of the Spirit, fan the flame and protect that good thing how much more glory would God recieve! I'm on my way rekindling, protecting and rejoicing --- in Him!
Dearest Beth,
Thank you for sharing this word with me today. I needed that. I am learning if we are being Spirit led we can not say what we will do. For instance I have been to Brazil four times on mission with my church and loved it. I thought this was what I would continue doing each summer. However, this year God called my to Ukraine. What a joy and blessing the trip was. The point I want to make is if we are being led by the Spirit we cannot boast about what we will be doing in the future...our future is in His hands.
You are in my prayers as you go to Providence this weekend.
Blessings to you, my friend.
Thank You! I So NEEDED that this morning! I have read what you said over and over...Now I am going to talk to Him about it! Emmy : )
Okay, God's definitely at work and speaking to me. I'm on the blog before having my quiet time. Excuse me while I go and do some protecting! And here on out I vow to spend my time with God BEFORE spending time with my siestas!
Thank you Ms Beth for letting God use you first thing this morning.
Kelli in Ohio
Wow! I really needed that this morning. For the last few days I have been thinking about how I have lost sight of my gift. To be perfectly honest through happenings at my last church (I am in the process of looking for another one)I have given up on my gift. When you are hurt by people you care about and admire it makes you think twice about getting involved again. I know precisely the gift God has given me, it has been proven to me over and over again, but I have lost the want to use it.
Thanks Beth! Your words were needed today.
Thank you! I needed that word so much! I've started a PT job and school begins for my 3 kids next week. It seems as though I've had trouble adjusting my schedule.
Thank you for sharing this timely and pertinent word. It speaks to me as I am coming out of a dark tunnel kind of season.
I love that God will make a way for us (all of us who seek Him)to have a word to guide and keep us in the race.
Another part of that verse speaks as well, "God did not give us a spirit of fear"...fear takes on so many faces, and keeps us from so much.
As for me this day...I'm believing God!!!!
...let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter (finisher KJV) of our faith....Hebrews 12:1-2
Beth,
Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! You have spoken a very clear Word over my circumstances this very day!
Thank you for your obedience to say it "succintly!" Anything less and I might have missed what He is trying to tell me about something very specific this morning.
Enjoy that walk -- are you sure Keith isn't on his skates???? :)
Blessings,
Dori
Thank you. You confirmed what God reminded me of last night at church.
It is great when we can see Him speaking to the body of Christ about the same thing.
Thank you for letting Him speak through you.
Beth
Thank you for your words of Wisdom that God shared and laid on your Heart.
I needed a little Push or "Kick in the pants" to get me Going this Morning.
Your Loving Siesta In Christ,
Clacius
I only have two words:
THANK YOU.
THANK YOU!! I really needed this message THIS morning.
I love when the Spirit speaks through others shooting an arrow straight through my heart! Thank you for holding the bow this morning, Beth, I needed it.
Melissa
God is Amazing! I just love the way when you ask Him, or call out to Him, He answers you in so many unique ways. I really needed to hear that this morning. My six children have all gone back to school and I have to admit I am busy with so many things right now but part of me is so very lonely without them home. I have asked the Lord why I feel so defeated right now and He answered me in your entry this morning. I am defeated as long as I become spiritually lazy, and that I have done, I have relied on resources other than the Word to be my sounding board and quit frankly it shows in every facet of my life. I know the gifts the Lord has blessed me with and it is time for me to bury my head in the Word and get me a big dose of JESUS.
Be Blessed,
Courtney
Thank you for that word! That was so encouraging and spoke to my heart! That goes along with what our music minister was talking about- not going through the motions. We all have times when we become a little lukewarm. May I restore my passion for Christ!
Plus I have stopped singing solos in church for a few years to have children. I am going to conquer my fear and try again this sunday. May I not take for granted any gift God has given me!
Good Morning Beth I've never posted before here but read each day. I love what God is doing in your life I love you and your precious gift that He has given you. I just got back from my morning walk.I was talking to God exactly what you said about my gifts he has given me. I just like to give and make and help !! :) and I can feel God so when I do these things. So your post was jsut a comformation I am hearing from God. Praise His Holy Name.
Thank you for being you and helping me be me through your Bible studies.
God is who He says He is
God can do what He says He can do
I am who God says I am
I can do all things through Christ
Gods word is alive and active in me.
Pam In Indiana
Beth, thank you SO much for sharing this. Some of what I wrote in my journal yesterday is so closely related. You were even mentioned in the entry along with one of the same passages you used this morning which confirms what I've just begun working on yesterday. This thing is beyond my comprehension but I'm just going with the flow. I appreciate your obedience to our Father more than words can say. He's so proud of you and so am I. Years ago in Birmingham, AL you wrote something in the front of my Bible, "His Word is Life!" How true I've found this to be. God has used your ministry mightily in my life. Blessings!
WOW!! Thank you for sharing this with us. I needed it. Since my husband was forced to resign from our church I've had nothing but fear written all over me. I've become so fearful and angry about this whole situation and have lost my joy. My fear comes from my past hurts and being scared to death that I'm going to be sent right back where I've been delivered from. We are getting ready to put our house on the market. And, this is so hard for me because when I was growing up my parents would move us around so much. Every time they hit a bad time in their marriage, they just figured if we up and moved to a new place everything would be ok and it never was. So, when having to talk about selling my home, it brings back so many bad memories. And, I've just become so bitter towards our church for doing this to us and for us having to make this decision because of them.
So, all that to say I really need to protect my relationship with Christ right now. I needed the reminder that He does not give me a spirit of fear!!! He gives me a spirit of power and because of that I know I'm going to make it through our present circumstances.
Oh Beth, thank you for your leadership. Thank you for being so real. Will you please pray for me and my family right now that we will remember this great thing that you have shared this morning.
All My Love
Oh my goodness, you have NO IDEA how much I needed to read that today. I'm sure the same will be true for many, since the Word of God is living & active for all of us! Thank you, Beth, for being obedient. Even if no one else's heart is pricked (which I seriously doubt), your willingness to share has profoundly ministered to THIS believing gal today!
I needed that so much , for things going own in my life.Thanks so very much.Now enjoy your walk I am going to do my slepcail time with the Lord then take my walk.Have a great day & may a specail blessing come your way. Keep Joy in your heart JESUS frist, others second, your self last.God bless love sister in Christ Victoria
Hi Beth,
This is on my mind.... Some personal things are going on, and I've been praying about a strange and difficult situation I find myself in. I hear that quiet voice telling me that although I really want to confront someone whose actions are hurting me deeply, the right thing to do right now is NOTHING. Ouch, that's hard! I think this person is working some past hurts out, and I will "protect the good relationship we have" by just waiting, and being there when I am needed. If you could keep me in your prayers, I would so appreciate it.
Love you much, and looking forward to Deeper Still in Nashville.
Adrienne
I feel as though the Father himself was telling me this because I needed to hear that this morning. Thank you for be obedient.
That is so good!! Girls let us not just hear the word given to us this morning but lets do it. We have such a treasure in these clay pots and we have each been given gifts to allow that treasure to be shared with those around us. Lets share alittle Jesus this morning:)
Thank you Beth. I pray someday you would feel the blessing you have poured out on us come back to you and it flood your heart with joy as you and Jesus sit together. That somehow you would know what your ministry means to us.Thank you.
Thank you sweet Beth. Praying that God will bless you in your willingness to share this today.
Oh Beth I could just cry! I have felt completely defeated in my work in my church...which I completely love...but, nevertheless, defeated! This is what God needed me to hear as I tried to refocus and refill my tank. Thank you Jesus for giving your precious vessel, Beth, the the opportunity to encourage us!
Blessings...
Oh mercy! My stomach has butterflies and my hands shake as I type this. God had you customize this just for me. Thank you for being quick to post what God impressed on your heart. It is very timely. If I didn't know this was how our God worked, it would FREAK ME OUT!! He is so cool like that.
Blessings to you!
steph.
thank you for this, beth. you have no idea what an incredibly perfect word this is for me given the night i had last night and the last few weeks of spiritual dryness. wow, He is so personal and sweet, isn't He? so gentle and simple in His love.
I so look forward to Esther this fall. thank you for what you do and the sincerity in which you do it.
erin in houston
Beth-
As I sat at my computer...visiting this site and that site contained in my bookmarks, I was compelled to visit yours before I clicked off. The words "you have time for the computer, but no time for Me" went through my mind right before I visited your site. Praise God...He can use a tool such as this, through his precious children, to let us know He loves us and we should never let the world take over. His gifts are the most precious...don't let them become of the world.
Shawnna
Beth...Seriously you have no idea how much that post/devotion/thought has just touched me today. Last night God layed something on my heart and what you wrote is a confirmation of exactly what God wants me to do. I just cant even believe how clear he has made it. You may never know the level of impact you have on people but trust me in my life you have impacted me HUGELY!!! All by posting something God layed on your heart. Maybe one day in heaven we can discuss it and I can give you the "details" :)
Dearest Beth,
Thank you for your obedience and your timely words and your boldness in sharing. I intend to take it my time with the Lord and seek His face!
What a blessing you are!
Today may you find fresh delight in Him!
Thanks, that's something I needed to hear today!
Man, that was awesome! Just what I needed to hear this morning! THANK YOU!!!
Thank you for sharing the Word the Lord gave you precious Siesta.
Annette
Thank you for sharing God's message. I am continually amazed at His timing! This reminder could not have come at a more appropriate time. I often question my self-confidence and allow others to intimidate me with simple comments. And yet, the Holy Spirit is always with me-thank you Beth, for the scripture!
You and your family are a blessing to all of us!
Beth,
Thank you so much for your blog. It really hit home with me. For years and I mean years fear has been such a part of my life to the point I couldn't even leave my home. Those verses in 2Tim. have been such words of healing for me. Now God has called me to lead 97 ladies on a spiritual retreat call the Walk to Emmaus in April of 2008. Last night working on some on the details I was a little overwhelmed that God would call someone like me. After a hard night God's mercy is new each morning and your blog was just what I needed. Thanks for listen to God and writing it even when Keith and Beanie were waiting. I pray that God just blesses your socks off on your walk!!
Completely His
Marilyn
ps. I'll see you in Nashville in a few weeks--I will be at the satellite location.
Thank you Beth for that word,
it comes in such a timely fashion for me and I receive it straight from Jesus mouth.
In the present season that God is working, he has also put on my heart to resist the enemies throwing a spirit of confusion amongst believers. I cannot go into detail but believe me it is real and God has had me praying scripture over myself and the believers that I work with. We all work with teenagers and we are seeing incredible work of the Spirit of God in their lives. It is an encouraging thing when we see the enemy try his tricks that he knows he feels threatened.
Thank you for passing on this word. I receive it.
Heidi in Georgia
Beth,
Thank you for your obedience to God. I really needed to hear these words. I am really struggling with the gifts given and where God wants me and quite frankly ready to hang it all up. I have been crying out to God for something and your words came at such a wonderful time. Just because we(God and I) are in a weird season that seems slow and stale does not mean give up. It just means to seek Him harder. I will seek Him harder (my commitment to all blog world) and not give up-even if I have to wrestle all night--He is so ever present and active even when we cannot see or feel it. He has the power to restore our fervor.
Thanks for your obedience to Him-it never ceases to bless me. May God richly bless your obedience to Him.
Angela
Good Morning to my cherished siesta Beth! Thanks so much for this "spirit led" exhortation this morning. I have been thrashing around in bed for the past two hrs, it is now about 7:15am and for two hrs. I have heard my saviour calling me to rise, seek and find Him. I don't want to sound mystical either, but I heard Him wooing me for the past two hrs. Exhorting me to resist spiritual laziness and rise early to hear what my "beloved" has to say to me.
Thank you so deeply for this, my spirit is deeply moved with confirmation to not let my spiritual gift LAY dormant, but to protect it ferociously and not let spiritual laziness put out the fire that Jesus soooo.....wants to keep rekindled within me.
I love you so!!! Thank you my dear friend for a word in due season!!
Angela
Beth,
That is a good word. It is a due word in due season. I remember telling the Lord, "Just show me WHAT you want me to do and I'll do it w/ all my heart." Then He told me and years of intense fire I had began to grow a bit more dim. We aren't to be ignorant of satans schemes. There are going to be seasons we have to press in and not shrink back. A red carpet isn't always going to be laid out for us to get time w/ Jesus. There are times we have to press in and then press in all the more.
I hear you thru "The Beth", Lord. I hear you! Help me obey.
Kara
Thank you for the reminder and encouragement. The ministry I work for is under attack as we are bringing about the vision God has placed on our leader's heart. We help hurting teens and their families and the enemy of our souls does not want the changes to take place. As we put on the Armor of God to fight, we also need to use our armor to protect our gifts from God.
What an awesome God we have, who speaks to us through others just when we need to hear from Him. What a blessing your words are to our family today. Thank you Beth for opening your life to the Spirit of Christ and following where he leads.
Beth,
As I read this entry this morning I simply gasped because I have been praying for God's leading and direction on starting a Bible Study with the women that I work with. I am almost trembling as I type, because I know that this is my confirmation to proceed. Cannot tell you what you, your family, and your staff mean to me. I prayed from the pit for God to save me and pull me out and about the same time, He lead me to your Bible Studies. That was over three years ago. I once had claimed to be a beleiver all my life and until I started getting into the studies, I realized no wonder my life was such a mess. Thank you for being so in step with God that you stop at nothing to get the word out. I know without a doubt I am called to start this bible study. I'm just petrified at this point, but I realize it's going to happen because He wants it. I have to constantly hold onto His hem if I ever want to spread the word. Thank you and God bless you all wonderful, sweet people. Love you dearly, Alisa
Thank-You Beth! I needed that this morning! Our middle daughter (17) had a melt down (big time) about her younger sister wearing her clothes and misplacing them etc. I tried to keep out of it . . . but the more it went on . . .I jumped right in the middle of it and was acting in the same way! I need to put that verse on the mirror! God Bless you forever! Thanks again! <>< Jolinda
My dear friend, this is my first time commenting on your blog and I must say you are such a trememdous encouragement to me. A dear friend of mine, my 13-year old daughter and myself are doing the "Breaking Free" study and I am so overwhelmed by God's love and mercy and want so much to be "satisfied" with His glory. My friend and I attended your conference in Boone and I would just love to spend a day with you because your excitement is so contagious.
Beth, I thank God for women like you who are willing to spend time with perfect strangers just to encourage and spread the wonderful story of Jesus Christ.
May God continue to bless you and use you,
Love you,
Jane
I needed it for sure...thanks for your obedience!
Thanks for the challenge. I've been praying the last couple of days...Lord there has to be more!
but I have a 4 yr old preschooler and twin 2 yr olds and baby #4 on the way at 21 weeks,just trying to keep up with the house and the boys.
Beth, You just don't know how that applies to the new ladies bible study I just started yesterday morning. It's about having a personal revival and breaking up the dead soil of our hearts to be renewed with our first love. Have a blessed day and thank you for communicating to us Siestas what God has told you to say to us. I felt as though He was talking to me personally. I experienced a little confusion at first then all of a sudden the words spoke to me. Yeah, I needed to SLOW down and LISTEN! Thank you for taking the time to post. I love you Siesta!
Donna in S.C.
Dear Beth~ Thank you for your encouraging words...this definitely was something God wants me to hear and act upon! Thank you for allowing the Lord to mightily work through you to share the grace, hope, and love of our wonderful Savior!
Dear Beth, Thank you for taking the time to post this morning, it hit directly to my heart in a few areas that I have been having difficulty with. Thank you for obeying the Lord and for posting this before you went walking with your family. You amaze me more and more. Much Love To You Honey.
Thank you for listening and sharing with us. We all have gifts and they need to nurtured, shared and lifted up to the giver of our very lives.
Love and Blessings to you today!
Debbie
Thanks for that word. I was having a similar conversation about this with a friend the yesterday. He is MIGHTY in our lives and we must always keep that gift with us.
Thank you for being obedient to Him and sharing this word with us. Great message to think on and work out with God today.
Love you- Sept & Esther can't get here SOON enough!
My husband and I are in a difficult situation as he pastors a church that is under turmoil and has just split (literally in the past week) resulting from gossip, rumors, and Satan's stronghold. I have prayed just this morning that no matter what happens, God will protect me from fear. Thank you for taking the time and delaying your walk a little to offer that encouragement! I covet your prayers.
After an alter call many weeks ago, I confessed to our church that I had been in a spiritual slump, that I had allowed other sources to quench the spirit and thereby I ended up grieving the spirit because I became complacent. What I didn't tell the church was that some of those "sources" were church members...and some incidences that had occurred, which caused me not to want to be involved. I know that God has called me to be involved in women's ministry and I have been having bible studies for the women of our church for the past couple of years and God has blessed. But I still struggle, thinking what if it's just me wanting "attention" or recognition...because sometimes I struggle with that. I told my sunday school class this past Sunday that I constantly ask God to give me a spirit of humility. And then there are times that I feel like giving up,... but then I began to "fear' what might happen since I feel God truly called me to this.
This morning, a lady from another church came to my work and talked with me about their church needing a pianist and one of my customers (whose husband pastors there) had told her about me. I told her I was not a great pianist, just the basics and that the very few times I have been asked to play at my small church, they have overlooked my mistakes. When I told her I was pretty involved at my church in teaching Sunday School and leading a women's bible study, she commented that would be great for their women too! After giving her excuses, she left and then I pull up your blog and you said "don't let that precious gift God has given you lay dormant". So I am confused in where and what God would have me do for Him. I need to get back in the Word on a big-time level (I do try to have my quiet time every morning) and seek His guidance! And PRAY for gudiance! I ask for your prayers, too!
Thank you for sharing what God inspired you to tell us all today! It was so needed!!
going to talk this over with Him...
thanks for sharing.
I am continuously amazed at how God uses different people to speak to me. Just last night, my Bible study leader taught on this very needed subject in my life. Then I get on the computer and your words only serve to reinforce that. God is so good! Thank you for listening to God's leading! Blessings to you, Beth!
Beth, Thank you so much for this! I needed to hear it. One of the things I've been gifted with is encouragment. When I was younger I used to send cards/notes to people all the time. The old-fashioned way. Paper, pen, and a stamp. Good ole' snail mail. But I loved doing it. Loved the idea that God would lead me to send a certain person a card that would reach them on a day that they needed it most. I loved picking out the cards and writing in them. As you can tell, I tend to write a book whenever I write so I always wrote all over the card! But I loved it. When I moved and started a new job as a Nanny, I practically quit doing it. I would still buy a card for someone but never take the time to send it. One day recently, I saw a card and the music minister at my parents church came to mind. I had to get it and made a point to send it that day. My dad told me later that it meant so much to the music minister that he read it to the whole choir. He was touched that I had sent the card rather than just phoning him. In this day of email and text messages, getting a piece of mail(that isn't a bill!!) is a oddity. That's one of the reasons I started doing it long ago. After I did that I felt awesome and resolved to do it more, but haven't. Your words today reminded me that I have been letting this gift slide. I don't want to any more. Thank you for passing on what the Lord shared with you this morning!
Love you, sweet siesta!
Nikki
Dear Siesta Beth,
GOD is awesome! You shared this with us and I just "heard you" say this very thing when listening to the audio CD's on To Live Is Christ this morning while getting ready for work and class!
You said that it was a serious thing with GOD not to use the gifts HE has entrusted to us!
I know you were annoited by the Holy Spirit then and now! HE wanted me to hear this message definitely!!
I love HIM so much...and love you and your obedience to HIM! Thank you for being someone that GOD can always use!
Your Sister and HIS daughter,
Teri
mama beth thank you for being so obedient in your walk with Jesus...he just SHOUTED at me in the most WONDERFUL way to say 'I LOVE YOU, NOW GET MOVING' :)
OH, if you only knew...THANK YOU.
..a 22 year old living on her own for the first time-that has moved states away from everything familiar--jobless, but not without PURPOSE and a calling--broke, but not without the RICHES of His kingdmon--sometimes scared to death, but more at PEACE than i've ever been.
i just can't even describe what your words just did for me. from a daughter siesta.....THANK YOU.
Thanks Sister for sharing your heart...it encourages me to not only protect, but to press on.
I'm about an hour away from visiting with my dear family member, who has been abused by her husband and he has cheated on her. She's ready to divorce him, and I really don't want to counsel, but encourage her to get good godly counselling. So I needed to hear what you wrote today and seriously do some protecting and pressing in my life.
You are precious. Do you know that??? Much love and blessings to you!
Holly
This is a little off the subject, but I wanted you all to see this. It's so stinkin' cute that I HAD to share it with you.
Psalm 23 like you've never seen it before.
www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=9e7c4b40cf5a13cea6ca
Hope this works for y'all.
love you,
Kristi
Speaking straight to me this morning. I have had "writers block" for the past few weeks. Not too sure if it's block, or if I've let life situations get in the way of my writing. In either case, I need some serious gift rekindling. Thank you for posting this, Siesta.
Thanks for the splash of lighter fluid, Beth! I needed that this morning (...and every morning!)
Hope everyone has a great, I-Love-Jesus-So-Much-I-Can't-Stand-It Day,
Warm in Alaska.
thank you for this word... i'm re-entering a season of serving the Body and this is timely for me.
see you in providence tomorrow!
blessings,
mandy
Today is my day to pray for you. What an honor and privelege to be able to pray that for you, your staff, and the worship team. Thank you for showing that power, love, and self-control to all of us!
That is so my life lately. I have become Spiritual Lazy and I don't like it! I have the great opportunity of being able to listen to some of your studies on lifeway.org (my office is quiet for the next couple of weeks and most days I am the only one here. Yesterday I was listening to your Fresh Approach Series - what an eye opener - I vowed to listen to it and get up early and do my quiet time before anyone else gets up. This morning it started and I was able to listen to segment 1 and take notes :) I then headed off to a Moms In Touch meeting and I love being all fired up :) My husband even told me to settle down and get to work when I called him from the office as I arrived. Thank you thank you for following God and using those talents and gifts He has given you to teach others. May we all be convicted of Spiritual laziness when we need to and then do something about it.
Friend Beth,
I don't know if I should respond with "thanks" or "ouch".
I will work it out at the feet of Jesus.
Tight Hug,
Chris
Beth,
I know others have said it, but what a timely word! Just this morning I was considering not reading my devotional, pulling the covers over my head and just snoozing another few minutes. But I did read but not the Word. I've fallen off my bible reading - I read other Christian materials, but not The Word. Your post has reminded me (again) that there is no substitute for God's Word. And it really is a matter of spiritual laziness and I need to develope my spiritual discipline, something I've struggled with for some time. I'm all about keeping the fire burning but sometimes neglect to keep adding fuel (the Word)! That's such a "DUH". How can I keep burning for Him if I'm not fueling the fire with His Word!! Thanks for "one upside the head"!
Your insight is always timely, always needed, and always right on the money. Thanks again. xo
Thank you Beth for posting those words...they're exactly what I needed to hear today as I'm struggling with a person that's rejecting all attempts on my part to reconcile and heal past hurts. She's a person I love very much and has been part of my life for six years and it's been really painful trying to keep going and trusting God in this situation. I miss her smiles and hugs. Thank you Beth for giving me something to hold on to and protect through God's strength and Word.
This is what I've needed. I've been so spiritually dry lately that I'm getting worried about myself. I haven't been in the Word. I feel it. Thanks for the Word. "Lord, make me desperate for you."
I read last night about Ruth working hard gleaning in the fields. Her hard work resulted in Boaz noticing her and eventually being listed in the genealogy of Jesus. God reminded me that the hard work He expects from us is always rewarded with blessings beyond what we can ask or imagine. Keep up the hard work!
Love
Kalonni
Thanks Beth,
You did this fearful heart good this morning. I asked the Lord to speak directly to me this morning about why He was putting me in places of service to Him that I have never been before. I told Him how scared I was. I have had overwhelming feelings of inadequacy, and fear. Thought I was ready, until I got in the trenches. I was beginning lately to think it was more comfortable to feel like turning back around. NOT GOING THERE! The enemy is not going to hold me back in an oppressive place again. Praise the Lord! He and I have worked to hard to turn back now. His deliverance is more powerful than any fears I have. Thanks Beth for allowing Him to use you to remind me not to go back to Egypt! It's not a place I want to ever see or feel again. Bless His Name, His Mercies are new every morning! Great is His Faithfulness. Bless you too Beth and your family!
Beth, the words from the Lord that you felt led to send to us is just what I needed. Almost five years ago I felt such a burden to start something for the youth of our church. Our youth had begun to drop in number because nobody was working with them. I was so scared, but I felt like if someone didn't step up, we would have no youth left. Everything worked out so perfectly and we have the sweetest ladies in our church who began to bring refreshments every week. My husband and another couple and I have been with this for almost five years. Finally a couple of years ago we got a youth pastor. He and his wife have been wonderful and now he is leaving to go to another church. I stayed and helped throughout this time and frankly loved the one-on-one time with the kids and doing behind the scene things. I was scared back when I am still scared to death to get up in front of those kids and give a lesson. I can find the neatest topics (and you've helped me a ton) while I'm at home and I get in front of them and they are staring at me and I begin to think thoughts like "I'm so boring and I need to cut this short b/c they're bored etc." I love the kids and have such a heavy heart for them and all they go through. For now it is back to the couple who help out, my husband & I. I am willing and I am going to be giving the first lesson September 5 and as Beth always says, "I'm going to do it scared." God has been telling me over and over this past week...fully rely on Me, Valerie. Be still and know that I am God. What you shared today is very timely and I appreciate you so much. In the meantime, please be in prayer for the right youth director to come out way. Love you!
Amen Sister!!!!
Beth, thank you so much for your own obedience to Christ in your life!
You have refreshed me today in ways you can not even imagine and I pray to God that you have inspired countless others!!
The Holy Spirit has been speaking to me directly on this issue over the past week. My dreams and excitement over my God-given gifts have been rekindeled and your words reaffirmed much of what I have been hearing the Holy Spirit speak into my heart.
Thank you, thank you!! As always, you are a blessing Beth!
Diana
Thank you so much for taking the time to write that post. I totally needed to hear that at the moment.
Beth, this one was for me! It fits very well the place that I am in my life right now, as well as with a word given to me by my cousin a few weeks ago. God is trying to speak and this stubborn seista is just not that quick to listen!! I am listening now!! God bless! Jen
Does God Speak LOUDLY !
Years ago I met you in Clearwater about'98 with Sandy Bailey . I approached to have you sign my "Feathers" book. Can I just tell you what your inscription was..."Deirdre,May God Speak" ISamuel 3 In Him, Beth".
God was confirming then with Scripture what I was studying @ that time. Today the same Scriptures comfirm HIS work within me matters to be followed through.
I have again found my very sweet man in the depths of his porn addiction-again. I do so want to quit the marriage and move so far away from his sinfulness which also drags our 3 gifts from God into yet another pit along with him. I am at a loss for going on, except my faithful pray-er friend. We meet and read through Tozer's "Pursuit Of God" and "An Affair Of The Mind".
I know I must be faithful to God- I learned that in the years of our earlier divorced years. I promised not to divorce him again and to keep my young men with their dad.
Did you read Tozer's words on his Ordination Prayer to the ministry in 1920..."Lay Thy terror upon me to the place of prayer where I may wrestle with principalities and powers and rulers of the darkness of this world." That was our reading this week with Ps. 103. I would never have choosen those words for myself until now... Today as I read your words-yet again My Father speaks so boldly and lovingly me.
Tozer finishes his prayer with these words- "Teach me to use whatever I recieve in such manner that it will not injure my soul or dimminsh my spiritual power."
To adopt these words into this season of my life I will pray hard after God's will, His gifts, and His love for me.
Praise You Father, You are Most High, there is non above You.
Awed! How You Speak to us , your children.
Excellent word... as we all step out, and do and 'be' what God calls us to, then the church is being the church. A wonderful expression of HIM. I wrote just this morning on what it is to 'wait' on God. And that is making room on our bench of life and inviting HIM to sit and call the plays. You can reach that link http://youthrillme.wordpress.com/
blessings, DeDe
God's timing is perfect! As fall approaches, I feel weary in leading another bible study, with many excuses...the busyness of life! Yesterday day I felt HIM telling me to be just be obedient! I KNOW my calling, I don't have to "feel" excited, just rest in HIS promises that He will do all the work, I need to be obedient! THANKS!
Beth, thank you for listening to the Spirit and acting upon His leading. Your message hits right at the heart of where I find myself in several areas of my walk with Jesus.
He is offering me His hand to dance...and I am accepting. How grateful I am for His grace when I stumble!
We Will Dance (David Ruis)
Sing a song of celebration
Lift up a shout of praise
for the Bridegroom will come,
the glorious One
And Oh, we will look on His face
We'll go to a much better place
Dance with all your might
Lift up your hands and clap for joy
The time's drawing near,
when He will appear
And oh, we will stand by His side
A strong, pure, spotless bride
Chorus:
We will dance on the streets that are golden
The glorious bride and the great Son of man
From every tongue and tribe and nation
We'll join in the song of the Lamb
Sing aloud for the time of rejoicing is near
The risen King, our groom, is soon to appear
The wedding feast to come
Is now near at hand
Lift up your voice,
Proclaim the coming Lamb
I don't, AT ALL, find it ironic that that is the THIRD day in a row that verse has been presented to me.
Thank you for your encouragement, as always!
MUCH love to you-
Lindsee
Oh mannnn!! If you only knew how GOD was speaking straight to me. Thank you Lord for the fresh word that you have provided today.
K
I work in our church office. We give away several food boxes each day and help people as much as we have funds to do so, as I'm sure every church does.
Yesterday afternoon a mom, daughter (teen) and son came in and I was giving her the box of food and talking and she had a very sad story. The kids needed clothing for school etc. I noticed the daughter had cuts all up & down her arm, which I figured were self inflicted.(?) The daughter asked me if we had a water fountain...I directed her to it. They left and this morning I found out that the girl committed suicide last night (by hanging). It has really effected me today. Please pray for this mother and brother and pray that we (our church family) will be able to minister to them and that God will provide so that we can help her with funeral arrangements etc. I can't even imagine. Thank you all so much.
Thanks Beth. I needed that today as I released my oldest to the college dorm and swept the feathers from my nest.
We serve an amazing God!
Spot on! Thank you.
Fiery fresh...love that thought Beth! Yes, that's exactly what I want my relationship with Jesus to be, how I want to feel when exercising the gifts he's given me.
Hope you enjoyed your walk!
Dear Beth,
Only the Lord knows the full measure of what He is saying to me through your blog today. Thank you. Not only has He spoken a clear message to me, He also had me scroll down the other blog entries from all the dear siestas for today. I don't normally do that due to my time constraints. One precious gal's entry jumped out at me. I will be contacting her via the email address on her entry. What a sweet blessing that our Lord is so multi-purposed in what He does!
Much love from Paulette, East Texas
Beth,
In light of today's entry, I was wondering if you would be willing to offer an easy plan to get started spending time with God on a daily basis. I know what I have to do, I have been a believer for years, but I think it wouldnt be quite so daunting, if someone could offer a simple way to EFFECTIVELY spend time with God. I spend oodles of time, but I never seem to end up anywhere. And, as I pray I hate to admit, but my mind wanders. I want to serve God with this area of my life so badly, but I just dont know how to make it work.
Thanks in advance, Stephanie
Amen Siesta:-) AMEN:-)
At His feet,
Angie
Beth: I've just read your little booklet and understand that knowing Him and making Him known is my first and biggest calling and ministry.
Like others here I have been so frustrated in using my gifts. My first major attempt to try, after many years was discarded by one person at my church. She unfortunately put words in God's mouth, concerning my chronic illness and inability to do a task which I was able to do quite well.
I am on a new search for exactly what He wants me to do, and I am nearly 50 so I had better hurry up!
But focusing on that ministry first, sharing Him which comes from really really knowing Him.
I am not there yet, but I need to get there.
AMEN and THANK YOU!
Have a great time with those precious girls He brings to you tomorrow!
I'm honored to be His... and I'm honored to be your siesta! Thank you for your obedience!
We LOVE YOU!
-Angie xoxo
After going through all the siestas posts, I could feel like I didn't write you enough...
I really just believe AMEN says it all...
Hmmm.
Jesus rocks:)
Be Blessed Siesta.
Angie
Alright, Beth. I had 24 hours of feeling settled and then I read your post this morning!
I just spoke at a Ladies Luncheon yesterday and told my husband "that's it. I can't do any more." (I haven't solicited any speaking engagements, they just come). Now you have me thinking that I should really pray, pray, pray before saying "no" to the next one that comes down the pike. (I'm giving you a raspberry. Grin)
Thank you so much for posting on the blog what you felt led by God. This was another confirmation that God still wants me to do this particular thing He has called me to do. He hasn't forgotten, He's just waiting for the perfect time, His time. God bless you and all the Siestas.
Thank you, thank you, Beth! You said it just perfectly. Thank you for listening to Jesus and being bold enough to share it with us siestas!
For Stephanie, have you tried journaling your prayers? It works great for keeping me on track!
Dawn
All I can do is sit here and cry....thank you. I love Him so...
Thank you Beth for sharing that today. I have been in a season of exile from using my gift for a while. You see I was/am the women's ministry leader at our small church and have led bible studies, taught and facilitated, led retreats etc. for our dear sisters for over 7 years. Last year my husband was paralyzed during a surgery so for several months I was unable to attend church or do my duties as w/m leader while he was in the hospital and rehabilitation. We have now been home for a whole year and things(I won't go into a lot of detail here)have changed so much at our church - We no longer have Sun. PM or SS services. I have not felt welcome to resume my duties. Thank you for sharing. I feel as if God has held me now and heard my crying... I love you and Amanda and this blog.I am blessed by your obedience.
Of your books I have read, Beth, it is all about mind control! It was in the beginning of time with Adam and Eve and it still is today. I downloaded your Daniel videos last night and am watching them tonight. It is all about mind control! Satan knows we have pride and are even selfish, so he already has a great "toy" to play with. We use our gifts and talents according to where our pride and selfishness are - isn't this what your word from the Lord is all about - who is controlling our minds?!
Hi Beth,
Thank you for sharing this.
I'll admit, I'm still a little confused right now about how it might apply to me. I'll be talking it over with God though to see what it means for me at this point. Thanks for being you.
Love,
Kara
Hi Beth! Thanks for what you've shared. As some of the others have said...it confirmed something the Lord has been speaking to my heart the past few days!
God bless you my sister in the Lord!
Janice
Thanks for that word, Beth. I'm a writer, too... been struggling with where to go next, what sort of ministry I'm supposed to be developing, etc.... was feeling very discouraged, and loved reading this. Isn't always so cool when you can tell something is a "God thing"? :-)
Dear Miss Beth, As God would have it, I read that very passage in 2Tim last night. Today, this post of yours jolted me awake. It's easy to pretend all is well and fall into spiritual laziness...right where I've been- blissfully oblivious. Lord, bring me back to my knees at the cross. Praise you Father, we thank you for our dear siesta Beth who tenderly points us to you. Love in Jesus, Kim in PA
Thank you, Beth. I CAN"T WAIT to see you tomorrow is Providence!!!!
Thank you for such a timely word - I will read again when I amhome from work, but already i feel my heart filling.
Dear Beth
Thank you for the word! I start facilitating the Daniel study this coming Sunday evening. What a timely message!
I love how you share your gifts with us!
I will be praying for you this week-end!
Love ya sweet siesta!
Kristi B.
Sister Beth CONVICTED!
Thank You Jesus for speaking to me through my Sister.
I promise Lord I will not be stagnet! Just Help Me! Also Lord Please Keep My Husband Kevin and led Him to Salvation and not let me be a Hypercrite!
Love,
Sue-La
I would be happy to do that if I had a clue what my gifts are. I don't seem to have any.
I needed to hear that today......thank you for letting God speak through you!
Thank you God for speaking thru Beth today.
A few years ago, in the church that my husband pastored, there was a very ugly split. The "nay sayers" never asked us to leave the church, but they certainly made it very difficult to stay. It was such a ugly time for God's people in this particular church. Our family left that church and we have never been the same. My husband even left the ministry completely.
So, fast forward a few years to yesterday, when I walked into my daughter's classroom for her school open house. You can imagine my shock when I discovered that her teacher will be one of the ones that was so vocally outspoken about my husband being the pastor. All those hurt feelings came back. I admit I had to ask God why he would bring back into our lives, especially in that capacitiy as my child's teacher. God is telling me today to forgive her because that is His ultimate gift to His children and also to make sure that I let Him be conspicuous as I relate to her in the next school year.
Wow! Isn't it just amazing when God smacks you right upside the head with a word or two?! I was just reflecting in my own blog last night over a struggle I am having with my own gift and how to use (or not use it). I've struggled all day with it, tossing it around over and over. Thank you for the SCRIPTURE reference! I looked some...but didnt' find what I needed. Now I see it! I'm so glad that God whispers to you so you can help pass the word on to the rest of us!
Hi sweet siesta-
I think what got me most about your post was not the laziness part, but the man-powered muscle-your-way-through part. When God orchestrates something, it is a powerful thing, when I try to conjure it up for whatever reason (even a good one) it just falls flat. I have been struggling because my church wants me to teach at the church on Wednesday night Bible study (womens studies) and I feel God leading me to open my home up on Tuesdays or Thursday mornings and still teach, but not at church. I feel guilty a little bit because I genuinely don't want to disappoint anyone that would come, but on the same token, I feel Him prompting me this other direction. Thanks for reminding me to protect my gift and to only use it where and when He wants it used. I want the blessing that comes with waiting on Him to do the work, which Praise Jesus, He thankfully already did on the cross. A good word my friend- tell Keith thanks for waiting!
Wow. That really does hit home! I've had some fear and doubts leading up to the beginning (next week!!) of the Christian counseling ministry that God and my godly professors have been preparing me for, so I believe this was truly a word fitly spoken, in His time. By the way, I just finished my journey through The Patriarchs with you; thank you for that!
Thank you dear one!
I'm so glad that you listened to God and shared that! He is so cool!! I am reading the Boble through and the passage He had me in this morning included 11 Peter 4:10. He reminded me that I need to be using my gifts to bless others. That's His plan! I smiled when I read it because I know that it was no coincidence that I logged onto your blog yesterday (after quite a hiatus) and then I read this passage this morning. God is trying to get my attention in this area. I just love the gentle tender way that HE did it!
amy
Thank you, Beth!
Once again - exactly what I needed right when I needed it!! A friend and I had just been talking about this the other day ... needing to dive back into the Word. I have been praying about it too, I know I need to just do it, thanks for the reminder. A three year old and a new one in two weeks ... life tries to get in the way, but the best gift I can give my family is MY fellowship with God and an example of what a life with Him can be.
Thank you Beth, my Siesta, for bringin it all into the light and always being His voice to me!
Love ya!!
Oh, My! I have battled this for several weeks now. I feel God has called me to the ministry in using my voice to praise Him and lift others up. I have had several opportunities to sing at different events, but dew to my laziness, fear, self-doubt, I have turned down these opportunities. I fear of failure, disappointing others, and not being the example I should be. I keep repeating what you said on Life Today, "If 100% is up here (showing w/ your hands) and 70 % is here and we are the 70% why can't we just be the best 70% and let GOd make up the rest?" "Be real" was your point. THat has settled with me for several weeks and I have thought of that often. Why can't I just be who I am, in the place I am in my spiritual growth? WHy can't I just go forth with what I have thus far and share, and stop trying to be this "perfect example" which I will never be!
Thank you for sharing this. God is so GOOD! ALL THE TIME! He knows what we need exactly when we need it, doesn't he?
I'm sure your word from God touched many, but it certainly spoke to me personally this morning... It confirmed a word God has been giving me for some time and dovetailed nicely with what God shared with me in my quiet time this morning. God has been working on me to purge some (very good, as well as worthless) things in my life so I can focus on and develop a gift/talent He's given me. He's beginning to open some doors for me, but fear holds me back... not just fear of failure, but fear of success, which brings its own set of pressures, as you know. ;) So, I've let things creep in and steal my time and my focus on protecting my gift. I was reminded this morning that I can do nothing apart from Christ -- both by you and in my quiet time. And he didn't give me a spirit of fear or timidity. We know where that comes from ...
Thanks, Beth.
Thanks for holding us accountable, Beth! It is so easy to slide away from hearing God's word but so important that we "protect that good thing."
A word in due season...I really needed this today. Thank you.
Love and HUGS to you.
NM
I would love to read all the comments, but not enough time...hope this isn't too repetitive. I thank you for following the leading of the Holy Spirit. What an excellent and timely Word from the Lord for me!
I just found your blog and love it and you! A question though... what is a Siestas? Isn't that a naptime? I have to ask at least one silly question a day.
:) sandy
thanks beth for taking the moment... thanks keith!
lovin life in Him! lisa
Dear Beth,
I just returned from my knees and that place where the Father speaks to the heart through squeezing it and changing it one prayer at a time. You know that place where the reality of our nothingness meets His Otherness. You know the place where we come face to face and let His Grace humble us, if we have been full of pride and let His Grace lift our heads, if we were humbled.
I wept for a good while and found comfort in knowing that my Christ heard me and that His ear was pressed firmly against my heart.
I heard it over and over... the Scripture which says that He did not give us a spirit of fear, but a Spirit of a sound mind.
Thanks Beth, for following the lead of the Father and for being a tool in His Hand as He makes His voice real to us while the enemy spits out his venomous lies that this broken world is all we have.
Much Love
Heidi, in Wisconsin <><
Like others have said, this was a timely word for me. I REALLY needed this affirmation. God is beyond "so good". A word from Him and then affirmation from Beth. God is unbelievably AWESOME!
Question: What if you don't know what the gifts are and He's not opened doors for you? For the past 2 years I've been seeking Him, reading His word daily, praying and I feel like He's tucked me away somewhere and I've tried to lead bible studies or start playdate groups with other mom's to encourage and it stops faster than it starts. I feel like He is teaching me and I have no where (of course my two toddlers) to put the overflow. What are we to do with doors that aren't opening and gifts that seem to be stagnent even though you want to use them?
Again I read this , it sure is answering my prays & what i am to do tomorrow. We in the county of Rockingham schools, 25 of them will be able to do a pray walk Aug25 10-11 AM around the schools to pray for all that work or do things for the school & of course the childern, I will be leading the one at Rockingham Middle school (6-8) grade,I am not aleader but God wanted me to do this, this is my frist time ever doing anything like this. so please be praying for me , because my pastor may not be able to come or anyone form my church. so pray I want let God down or those specail children that belong to God anyway. Thanks Love sister in Christ Victoria
Thanks so much for that word! I feel like God has called me to help a family by caring for their baby as a home health nurse, I haven't worked in years. Miraculously, I got hired yesterday to just take care of this baby and I have to pass tests and it seems so overwhelming. I was terrified but stopped and said, "This fear is not from the Lord, God doesn't give us a spirit of fear but of love and power and a sound mind." I know God has called me to use my gift of nursing now that my kids are in college. This is just another confirmation that I am doing the right thing. Thanks again and blessings to you! Love, Shannon
Sweet Beth,
You are in Rhode Island now and one of my blog siestas is there, too. I know you will receive as big a blessing as you give to those in attendance!
Thank you for this word of knowledge you received from the Lord. I was out-of-town for a couple of days, and just read your post and it knocked me between the eyes. I'm sure your obedience in writing this to us will sock it to many people. Although, sometimes it is not laziness, but battle fatigue. We just need to remember Paul, and not give up fighting the good fight.
I was with a group of gals (from several different churches) who all take your Bible studies, and we talked about how you are our good friend...and we know you so well. I hope you know that you are prayed for daily by women all over the world, and you are such a blessing to us! We will always know you if we see you on the street, but you will never know us, probably. I can't wait until we all sit at the feet Jesus together.
Have a splendidly blessed week, Beth. Love you lots!
Thanks for the timely reminder. I believe with all my heart that this was a word from the Lord to me today. I appreciate your honesty and obedience... you are loved by me.
Thank you, momma Beth!! I needed to be reminded of that....as I have let my gift go to waste for several years now. Out of depression and guilt over a tragic situation beyond my control I quit using my gifts and fell into the hands of the enemy's scheme....to try and convience me that I could be of no use to bring glory to the Kingdom. But I know better now and am trying to bring back those gifts I threw away so long ago! I am coming to Deeper Still in Nashville, TN and can't wait!!!!
Anon. at 11 am asks the same kind of things I have asked? If you are not sure of your gifts, or if you are really really ready to step out and the door isnt opening, what do you do?
I sat in one ministry for 13 years, and did a very very small task every week, but to them it was very important. I felt it was time to move on, and I went into training for a ministry at church. I did the task well, with God's help and knowing it was my calling. But one person took me completely out of the task, and has been dishonest about her reasons for doing so. I know by much confirmation that her issues were not God's issues, and I know her attempt to say that God told her to do this, was in error.
Yet, God is so sovreign that now I see a bit of a bigger picture. I see I am to move way out of my comfort zone and serve in an entirely different church. With His help I will do so.
Sometimes I think we have to just be content to sit and wait, sometimes we have to see our ministry as even just serving people at home or in our neighborhood. And the most important thing I have learned is to lean on Him and start just sitting with Him. Other people cannot fill that relationship, and out of that relationship a ministry can and will grow.
My verse was given to me at graduation by a dear Dr./teacher at my high school and it was 2 Timothy 1:7. It has sustained me through college, children, divorce, single motherhood and now a marriage that God blesses more and more with each passing day. Lately, my youngest is getting older and I am so looking forward to going back to teaching, my gift, that I cherish so much. (Tears in my eyes) I ache every year when school starts and am looking for God's direction as to where I am to go with my gift now. Through the blog that you wrote this morning, God has broadened my verses to include my gift and to pursue it in order to bring Glory to Him, without fear, "but with power, love and self control (discipline depending on translation). It's as if He is saying, "Go girl, go! You can do it! There isn't anything we can't do together!" So, I'll add cheerleader onto the long list of things my Jesus is to me, friend, counselor, comforter, father, husband, lover, teacher, everything and this morning, through you, my own cheering section. Thank you, thank you, thank you for writing to me this morning and thank you for making me feel dear. You are so dear and I am so thankful to God for you.
kt in Charlotte, NC
I was just having a battle within myself....whether or not to "again" lead our Women's Bible Study for the fall. I was about ready to ask someone else. I hear you LORD!
Thanks!
Brenda
Beth,
I just completed your bible study The Beloved Disciple. Your message today brought to a conclusion a conversation I've been having with the Lord since the beginning of that study. He's so totally awesome and when I let Him, He always has the last, and best, word!
Kathy
Thank you, Beth. This Siesta really needed to be reminded of those things today. I never cease to be amazed at how God's word can pierce my heart and cause joy to flow out. Bless you.
Leian from SLC
Thank you, thank you. I get so excited sometimes that I charge ahead FULL SPEED ahead of the Lord. My time with Him has been cut short lately and this was a wonderful reminder of how He must come first (I love how you described it as a "lively relationship" with Him through God's word). Bless you - T
wow--sometimes I feel that powerful Word was meant just for me and then I see so many comments of others who are feeling the same thing. Sometimes I feel "overwhelmed" and the gift of helps becomes more of a burden and I shouldn't feel that way.
Thank you my dear siesta, for sharing this with me!
Also, sidenote: when son was little he would say "spirit of humidity" instead of "timidity"!
Down here in South Alabama, I'm feeling a powerful spirit of HUMIDITY!
Have a great weekend!
God is so good! Thank you for that word! I have a list of people that I pray for reguraly (and the Moores and Living Proof are on that list) and the day before you sent this I prayed this scripture over yall. I know this was not sent just b/c of my prayer, but its cool to see the inpartations of prayer! :) And better than that, you helped make the scripture make more sense to me so thank you and painted it in such an enlightening light! Thank you my beloved teacher and mentor from afar, Mrs. Beth! I thank God for you! :)
What neat pictires.I just got back form our pray walk, thanks for all the prays,we had at lest 30 people walking in no shade, 99 ,was how hot, but we prayed for all most an hr.& the school that I was to lead, had 8 or more of the teachers.God is so good, I am so hot, tired but so somehting can't even come with words, I am not a leader, will wasn't one ha ha.25 schools in my county in NC were prayed for.God bless you all, by the way so were your schools because we prayed that the prays would bounce off the walls & go threw the world to all the schools.Its going to be a good year.God bless love sister in Christ Victoria
AMEN!!! This is just what I was discussing with my dearest friend who is caring for her terminally ill sister and is away from her husband and family as she cares for her. God is always ready and able to renew our spirit. Strength is found only in HIM. He blesses us with earthly graces, such as the dear friend I mentioned. Thanks you.
Tina
Beth,
Thank you for this word. I agreed to take on a committment at church that was not difficult during the summer but this week I had to go back to my teaching job during the week. I felt totally overwhelmed, which is the only reason I was hesitant about making the committment in the first place. The word you shared reminded me that I cannot do it on my strength alone but with God it will be okay. I know He wanted me to use my gift on Sunday mornings and I am looking forward to tomorrow instead of dreading it and feeling inadequate. Thanks for your willingness to share. You have spoken to so many with this word.
In Him
Lisa
Wow! I don't know why it continues to amaze me how perfect God's timing is. I attend a large church in OC and we have Sat. nt services. Bet you'll never guess what tonights message was on! It was all about doing what you know God wants you to do! Don't let fear stop you, get out of the boat. The greatest blocker of faith is not unbelief but FEAR! If you are going to fail, fail falling forward!
Then I come home and read this!
I have had many people in the last 6mo. or so tell me what I should be doing and I feel like it has been confirmed by God and in my spirit. So I have been working on it as I have time and just in the last couple of weeks the enemy has been comming in a saying "that's not really what you are supposed to do, none of it matters anyway and it is all a bunch of garbage." I just feel like God is telling me once again..."Stay on track beloved, be faithful, complete what I have told you and I will be with you."
Thank you Beth, Praise you Abba, and now I should get back to it!!
God Bless you abundantly,
Debbie in CA
Thank you for the Word that God used you to speak to me. That specific Word resonated with my Spirit after some questions that I have been having. At a prayer conference this weekend I had gotten really discouraged that God was not speaking to me, but then He did on the final day. I just wanted to let you know that my Spirit received it and will continue to pray over this passage in 1 Tim. for my life.
Thank you! You will never know what this "word" has meant to me.
I have been struggling over a decision - secular career change that would have a huge impact on my level of service to the LORD and the body. No more struggle. Decision made. I will rest tonight. Peace and joy to you.
As I sit in tears, all I can say is God Bless you!! Thank you for sharing your gift with us. I needed this said to me during this time in my life.
God Bless,
Kristi
Thank you for being obedient to speak with boldness what the Lord lays on your heart. God has used verses 6 & 7 as a call back to a ministry I thought I'd left behind in CA. It was confirmed through your blog! Verse 14 confirmed what my Sr. Pastor spoke to me and prayed over my ministry just 2 days before. The Lord is so gracious to make things abundantly clear to this Siesta who doesn't want to miss Him or get in front of Him. Thanks for being one of the avenues.
Serving Him with you,
Michelle
Oh my! I have not logged in lately, but the date on this post along with the scripture passage resonate so clearly in my heart.
Thank the Lord He spoke this to you and you shared it with us. Anyway, that day is significant for me because it is the day my 17 year old son went home to be with the Lord in 2005. The scripture was one I keep on an index card in a photo album, there are about 10 scriptures and prayers in that album. They are all scriptures I prayed over Justin during the last
year of his life.
Thank you for being sensitive to the Spirit and the Lord's leading...
BLessings,
Michelle Bentham
Fort Worth, TX
Thank you Beth for sharing this. It truly spoke to my heart.
Thank you for being believers in Christ Jesus!! I feel truly blessed! By using the prayer of Jabez, I am out of my comfort zone and finally feeling on fire for our LORD! My church ladies council has asked that I teach "Believing GOD" that Beth created. This message is just what I have needed for some time. I am so grateful that this ministry exists. I just found this web site this morning. May GOD bless you all abundantly, and grow you strong and confident in your gifts doing HIS will. Diane Lee
God is amazing! This is a word that speaks very clearly to me today! Even though I am reading this several days after you posted it, the meaning that God has in it for me could not be much clearer! Blessings to you!
Jennifer in Tennessee
Hi Beth,
Thank you for that. I felt like it was for me too.
Christy
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