Letter From Your Terrific Teacher, Kelly Minter
Greetings Siestas! (I’ve always wanted to say that).
I can’t tell you how blessed I’ve been to be a small part of your online journey. When I heard Beth was going to facilitate “No Other Gods” this summer on her blog I was thrilled and simultaneously ignorant. I had no idea what this meant, and I can assure you I never entertained thoughts that included hair tips, how to protect my neck from the sun, or creative ways to use your oven mitt. But, alas, this is why we admire Beth – for her love for the Word and her knack for the unpredictable. So... many thanks to Beth for being the catalyst behind this amazing summer experience.
I also wanted the specific opportunity to thank all of YOU who have spent time with God this summer through the study of Scripture. Your dedication and comments have been inspiring! It has been a blessing for me to watch your fortitude in dealing with truly un-fun things like, well, idols. I understand that it’s not the feel-good-study-of-the-year but the blessings that come from obedience and surrender are immeasurable...
Several years ago when the Lord began to deal with some of the false gods in my life, I wanted nothing more than to cling to the very things He was asking me to relinquish. Perhaps you can relate. A lot of the verses and passages of Scripture that helped me let go were the very ones I used in the “No Other Gods” study – my prayer is that they encouraged you as well. Since having written the study I wanted to share something that has been a new reality for me – living in the purpose of freedom. For so long I simply wanted to be free from the things that controlled me. What I didn’t understand was what that freedom was for. Although I am still very much learning, I wanted to tell you that God frees us from our idols so we can be free for His purposes. We get free so we can move and be and do the things of God. I am now doing things that I simply couldn’t have done before because I was tied up by my false gods (and please don’t think necessarily grandiose things – they are humble and quiet things, but they are awesome and they are things I am thrilled to be part of).
I hope this makes sense, as it’s an infantile understanding that’s still forming inside me. I just wanted you to know that saying goodbye to our false gods offers a tremendous freedom that is not simply for the sake of hanging out with our “new free selves", but it’s a freedom that allows us to engage in the moment by moment things of Christ. Keep pressing forward no matter how awkward the journey. We have a jealous God, and I will gladly take jealous over passive any day. It is for freedom He has set us free!
Thank you Siestas for blessing me so much this summer and honoring me by your presence.
-kelly
Labels: Kelly Minter, Summer Bible Study
posted by Beth @ 10:29 AM
158 Comments
158 Comments:
Thank You Kelly! I was challenged and God has really used this study with me. I have passed it on for our Wed. night Bible Study leader to consider for her winter study. God bless you!
Dear Kelly,
We all love your writing style... you are funny and practical and inspired all at the same time!
Thank you for following Him in doing this study, so that we all would reap some benefit from Him through it this summer.
We'll be looking for more from you!!
Our love and gratitude,
Lavonda, Sheri, and Diane
Marietta, Georgia
Thank you so much for putting your experience and roadmap for leaving idols behind in book form. I am in a much better position (face down and submissive) to serve God Almighty now that room has been made. As always, traveling on a road someone has already been on and paved the way, is easier. Thank you for your committment and challenge to get those idols out of my life!
Love ya dearly!
Beth & Co:
I wasn't able to do the Bible study this summer, but would like to over the coming months. There might be other Siestas who feel the same way. Would you be able to post all of Beth's videos somewhere in one place so we can find them easily in the future?
Thanks for considering. We appreciate you!
Kelly,
I honestly thought there was not another person on the face of this entire earth that had ever felt like me or had ever gone through what I had gone through. You cannot imagine how floored I was not to find out I was wrong. Thank you so much Kelly for writing down into words your lifestory. You will never know what the story of your life has done to rewrite my own. I honestly feel as if my whole DNA has been rearranged. I promise you that I have always "known" Him but I had never "seen" Him until now and there is such a freedom in that intimacy that can never truly be explained in words written here on earth. I guess it is almost impossible to explain and unexplainable God. I thank you more than you will ever know for being the catalyst that has changed my very being and has driven me to the very One I now soley breath for. And with every bit of determination that is within me, I promise to spend the rest of my life giving back to Him in praise all that He has given to me in love. Whatever crown He gives me, He can have it right back at His feet. All I want is Him. Thank you for the opportunity to find out what truly matters most...Him... I hope you can somehow know that this changed woman is a part of the harvest He is reaping through you. Getchapraizon girl!!He's Worthy!
Nicole, SC
Kelly,
God bless you! I am free!!! The bible study has changed my life so much. I can not go thru a day without seeing Idols disappear that I would not have seen before this study. My study group was wonderful and have grown closer to my christian sisters. We are in Rome, Ga. from Pleasant Valley South Baptist Church.
I am going to go thru the study again and know I will be blessed again.
God Bless,
Donna
Thank you so much for listening to God and putting together this Bible study book. It is really what I needed right now. It hasn't been totally fun, but definitely needed. Our group was not able to meet at the same time as everyone else, but we are still meeting and are looking forward to completing it soon! Thanks so much, Kelly!
It has been a life changing study, Kelly. Thank you for sharing your life!
Many blessings upon you and prayers for you, Kelly!
Love,
Holly
Kelly,
Freedom to move forward is the very gift that I've been experiencing from this study. I had no idea how some of this stuff was holding me back! It's like God has breathed a huge sigh of relief and said, "Okay child, now that we're done with that, can I just show you what I've been holding for you all this time?"
Your obedience to write to this end has caused my opportunity to live to it - for that I'm forever grateful!
Blessings Siesta!
Melinda
Thank you, Kelly for being obedient to God's call on your life! The study was one that will change me for life! I'm still a work in progress, but I see when something is or has become an idol in my life and I know that I have to clean out those idols and make room for God. Thank you!
Blessings
Michelle
Oh, what a nice surprise! Thank you, Kelly, for sharing more profound thoughts. We have been stationed many times overseas while in the military. I thought I had given up my idol with my career to follow my Air Force guy, but it's replaced when lonliness sets in overseas. It's amazing how we can turn to so many other things than our Lord. We are again overseas, so perfect timing to have this amazing study and dive into the Word to remind me not to slip into that same pattern! Thank you, Kelly, for following God's call for this study!
Kelly,
I did not participate in the online study this summer, but did purchase the book and am in the process of working through it. As part of our church's women's ministry team, we are seeking what study(ies) God would have us do this fall. I feel led to facilitate this study in my home beginning in September and look so forward to it. I plan to limit the group to 6 and am praying now for the ladies God will lead to this study. Love your encouragement that being free from our idols makes us free to carry on God's purposes for us. Thank you for allowing God to work in your life to prepare this study. God bless you.
Sweet Kelly,
Thank you, thank you! Thank you for letting the Lord use you to write a bible study for "me". :)
You continually hit home in so many ways. You and your girl friends are awesome. Thank them, too.
God bless you for helping me work through issues. I look forward to more of your studies.
I think we should dub you our new
NOG SIESTA MAMA!!!!!
love, Ann
Dearest Kelly, your work has been nothing short of life-changing. I am now sooo looking forward to saying my "hellos"!!!!! :)
I hope you will publish a new book, soon - your delivery and clarity of exposition is a breath of fresh air.
thank you again Kelly! May God bless you continuously and abundandly!!! Ciao bella!!!!
maria cristina
Oh dear Kelly,
I cannot even begin to put into words what this study has done for me. So many things were revealed to me as "gods" that I otherwise never would've dealt with or realized they needed removing from my life. I'm also so thankful for the blessing of awesome fellowship with the "siestas" in my group. I formed some new relationships and strengthened some old ones. Thank you, thank you, thank you for taking the time and digging so-very-deep to write such a meaningful study.
Kelly,
Thank you for being so open in your study and sharing your life with us.
Keep those Bible studies coming!!
Hi Kelly! Thank you for sharing what God has revealed to you and for your odedience in writing this study. I know it was hard work and deeply personal. Certainly, there are many people like me who are deeply blessed and (by God's grace) profoundly changed by it. Press on.
Oh this was a wonderful surprise, and a fabulo-fantastic ending to this Bible Study. I did the study solo this summer, and am hoping to lead a group of NOGs at my church this fall. I know they will, like me, be richly blessed.
Thanks Kelly!
Hugs,
Adrienne
Thank you Kelly for doing this study. When I started I thought no big deal I've got things handled but in the first week God started getting my attention. This has been a life changing experience. There was and still is many areas in my life that I need to let go and let God have his way. I can honestly say that I am practicing identifing idols and getting rid of them daily.
I have so enjoyed the study. It came at a great time in my life as my family and I had to move and we are so missing our friends. I realize that God had to take me out of that comfort zone to see Him do great things in our family. That small town and all my friends were my gods. The "good" type that you just don't realize they can be interrupting your relationship with God. I still miss them sooo much, I'm holding back the tears now, but He has shown me marvelous things through it all.
don't ya' love those "infantile understandings that keep forming inside" Praise Him! Thank You, Kelly
I didn't participate in this study as I had already committed to another study (Steppin' Up ~fabulous), but I have heard such good things about this study from others (who aren't even a Siesta! can you imagine??). I'm looking forward to working it. Might it be a good to do during the Sunday school hour?
I love the premise behind the study with the common meal and stuff too.
Kelly,
I just want to shout a huge THANK YOU your way! My life is truly changing as God has revealed my biggest idols of approval addiction and pleasing others. He has rocked my world in helping me search my motives in my relationship with Him. He doesn't want me serving Him out of obligation or selfish motives. I am not completely finished with the study as I have been led to other resources to help me with this and have to admit that this freedom thing is wigging me out because it is all new territory to me. I am just trying to take it day by day and step by step. I love that God is a God who is into root issues and his patience never wears out! I was greatly encouraged by your post and really wanted to say thank you for your obedience.
Susan Dyess
Kelly,
Patty, Karen, and I thank you for the God given study you were obedient to write and for you sharing your heart with all of us. We are blessed by the study. I pray the Lord God Almighty showers you with blessings this day.
Thank you Kelly! Your study was a breath of fresh air. You brought things into the light that I had no idea were hiding. God Bless you for your faithfulness. I hope you publish another study soon. Thank you again.
Thank you Kelly!
I enjoyed my journey with God in this study. It wasn't easy and at times not pretty but I love the freedom that comes in Christ!!
It was also an honor to be on this journey with you and your friends and can say that I enjoyed the recipes?!!! What a great idea to include recipes. :))
I can appreciate the Titans story. I live outside of Nashville and I loved that story!! Maybe I will see you around NashVegas at a Starbucks. :))
Have a blessed day and may God pour an abundance of blessings into your life.
Love,
Patty
Kelly, thank you so much for the heart and soul that you put into the study! It has helped to yield a fruit in me to lay down my idol of acceptance from others. It's such a slow process that I am by no means finished with, but I'm getting there! Thank you also for your encouraging words today! What a neat way to wrap it up!
May the Lord bless you and keep you and may his face shine upon you!
Amy in Missouri
Kelly,
I really appreciated your transparency and humble tone in this study. It was a pleasure to work through. The biggest take-away for me was that our fears protect our idols. I'll be considering that for a long time! I hope that you write many more studies.
Blessings,
Leslie
Dear Kelly,
Thank you. I really enjoyed your study and I know it is something that I will refer to again!
Cathy in Florida
Kelly thank you so much for writing this study! It really made me aware of how many things in life I was putting before God, now that those things are out of the way I feel so free! My walk with the Lord is getting so much stronger!
Thanks again!
Kelly, so many ladies in our group have commented on how much they love your writing style. Casual, comfortable and heartwarming, all while drawing us closer to our Savior. You never go without reminding us that you have been through this process, and that it wasn't always easy! Thank you for your loving spirit and encouraging words. You've blessed our group to make room and live our lives in adoration for our Great God! May God bless what is in store for your next steps of faith!
Love, Amy in OK
Kelly, Love what you said today about how we're freed up to do what God purposes for us. Not by accident, I started another blog study while finishing yours. The topic is change! The clearing out of functional gods, happened to flow right into the new study I am involved in.
And finally, for any who have left a ministry (because God called them out) or a church, the final pages of your study spoke volumes.
God is doing a new thing. Thank you for sharing a gift with us.
Oh Kelly! Thank you so much for this study. I, and my friend, have not finished it yet. We are still in the midst of growing through the study. It has been very enlightening so far. The weeks make me laugh, reflect, cry and turn toward the one and only God. It has been a great complement to my other study this summer "When Godly People Do Ungodly Things." The seductions of life and how they actually are behind so many idols in our lives. Thank you for sharing the wonderful stories, your group experiences and recipes. Blessings to you and looking forward to hearing how God continues to work in and through your life.
Kelly,
What an awesome study! I hope to read more from you in the near future. God must have really wanted me to study this because so much of our Sunday School curriculum this quarter had to do with idols as well.
God Bless You,
Lynn Langford
Kelly, Thank you for the study. It was a great study, very helpful, and a fun way to spend a summer - studying with siesta sisters.
O Kelly!
Your study No other Gods change me life! And it changed my summer! You are an amazing women with an increadable heart for God and others! God Bless you always and keep serving the lord Kelly!
Kelly!
What a pleasant surprise to see you on here! I have LOVED your study and I'm a little behind on finishing it but I am pressing on and will finish it! :) It is teaching me SO much and stepping on my toes big time...but I need to hear what you're saying (and what God is saying to me!) so badly. I "amened" you on almost every page so far..haha!
Thank YOU for your obedience to God and for writing this study. It has blessed and helped so many of us and is bringing glory to God! I'm also thinking about presenting your study to my women's Sunday school group. :)
I pray many blessings over you, girlfriend!!
Love,
Missy in SC
Kelly:)
Praise the Lord for your study and this letter, which is very touching. Getting to a place where I could finally release everything to Him: confessing my sin, all my fears, all my hurts, all my pain, was beyond freeing. Very painful itself-the hardest thing ever-but freeing. All my ques-just pouring my heart out to Him with my face down on the floor-crying all I want to because He can handle it. I can't understand why many things happen. Then where would faith be? He is a jealous God, and I am blown away that He would choose me to be His own. Bless you Kelly. May God mightily use your life to glorify Him in all humility and obedience. May your joy be full. No matter what, Kelly, you hold tight to Him. Hold tight.
Your sister-in-Christ,
katie
aka
katiegfromtennessee
Phil. 1:20 (AMP)
Kelly,
You were a breath of fresh air! It was great to have perspective from a young, single gal. Your depth of insight reflects much time spent with God. I was unfamiliar with your work until a friend came back from Nashville having spent time with you and MB. She spoke so fondly of you, it was a delight to have the opportunity to participate in your study. After 25 years of various bible studies, this was definitely a favorite! Continue to fan the flame, girl. Your gifting in worship and teaching will bring Him much glory. Thank you...grace and peace,
Kathleen - Albuquerque, NM
AMEN! To what you said about Freedom, Kelly. You know this study is a part of the journey God has had me on the last year just seeking Freedom!
The other day, my friend and I were talking on the phone and I said, "I'm not believing the enemy's lies anymore, I'm not playing his game anymore. I did it too long. For 38 years I have been playing this thing his way, but I am now thoroughly convinced FREEDOM is worth it. For too long I was convinced that Freedom depended on me... what I could or could not do... But, all freedom depends on is God changing us from our hearts on out. I want to live totally and utterly free."
Thanks for showing us a doorway to walk through that leads to the gates of Freedom!
Blessings and favor be upon you in the Name of Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
Thank you for your faithfulness Kelly and your study of His Word. Our group of 9 were challenged and thrilled to do this together. WE are all looking forward to your next inspiration.
Blessings to you from Clarksville TN,
Betty,Patti,Angel,Elaine,Melba,Joy,Debby,Michelle A.& M.
Kelly:
Thank you so much for the pain, time, and EFFORT placed into this study of showing us just what some of our idols were, disposing of them, making room, and filling that room with God Himself.
Lovingly,
Yolanda
Dear Kelly,
This study has been great. I love your sense of humor. Thanks for being so transparent and authentic.
I really appreciated the part of your post that mentioned how God frees us from our idols to fulfill His purposes not necessarily in grandiose ways but in the quiet and the humble ways. I have seen that very thing happening with me. Glorious Freedom!!
God Bless you.
His,
Sherri
Dear Kelly, Thank you for this great study. It wasn't always pleasant, but it was worth the effort. We had a great group of 7 in my home and we had wonderful fellowship and discussion. We agreed that we would be looking for your next study. I used a number of your recipes so I had fun with that as well.
Your sister in Christ,
Kay Martin
Tupelo, Ms
Hi Kelly,
Thank you SO VERY MUCH for your study, it felt like talking to a good friend as I was doing the homework! I love making room for God, especially as He is so lovingly consistent and also uniquely individual in how He deals with us, His beloved daughters. May He bless you abundantly as you follow Him!!
Love, Karen :) :)
Kelly:
Thank you so much for allowing God to use your talented self in writing this Bible study. :)
I have completed the study and through it, have gained new insight and have come face-to-face with some areas that God is desiring to perfect in me.
What a harvest you are going to have from all the lives you have touched! God bless you!
sorry this is for beth! our women's group just started Stepping Up today and I just wanted to say thanks for doing another study...i love it already!
Thank you Kelly!! I'm sure you loved all my unsolicited comments in the emails I sent you, but the study really did change my life.
I'm so excited to have snagged you for our event at The Met in April!! We are SOOOO going for Mexican food when you get here........did have a moment where I was afraid mexican food may be an idol. That may have just done me in!
Thank you for laying your heart out there for all of us to learn from!
Keri
Thank you Kelly,
I have REALLY enjoyed this study. It opened my eyes and heart to the areas that I have made into idols as never before - I didn't even think of those issues as "idols" but after doing this study, my heart is much wiser to the things I put my focus on - all of which needs to be on God Himself. It is freeing me up to focus on how He wants to fill me and free me to serve and follow His lead. It has also allowed me to be freed from the idols I had in trying to be the best "mother-in'law" out there - to just being "me" - and relying totally on God to handle it all.
I hope you have another study out soon. May God richly bless you and your efforts as you are used by Him.
BEBE in Texas
Much Thanks Kelly,
God and I settled a matter that had kept me from moving forward for 26 years. Release and Surrender are difficult but oh so worth it.
Jill
Thank you Kelly! And Beth!
I just started the study this week, and I am enjoing it very much so far.
I am doing it on my own.
I am from Chicoutimi, Quebec, Canada.
May the Lord bless you all!
Rachel
Thank you for the study, my group (four of us) really enjoyed meeting and doing it together.
I did the study solo this summer, but will have the privilege of leading a small womens group from my church through it this fall. I can hardly wait to share with them what I have been taught and to in turn share what they are learning and letting go of. I'm sure I will be doubly blessed the second time around.
Thanks SO much, Kelly!
I started the Bible study solo and realized it was too good to do alone. I stopped to share it with our pastors wife. I hope to do it as our fall Bible study at our church if copies are available...
looking forward to finishing it
Sally J
Ohio
Kelly -
It has been such a fun summer spending time in your study. I feel like we are old friends because of all the personal stories you shared in No Other Gods. The Lord was so faithful to reveal to me some things that I've been giving too much attention to. Ouch! it was sometimes painful. But now that we've made room for Him just imagine what mighty things He will be able to do among us!
Thank you so much for all you put into this study and for walking through it first so that you could take us siestas by the hand and lead us further down the path to freedom.
Love and Blessings from Colorado!
Cinde
Kelly-
Thanks for making food part of the curriculum.
Thanks for making me cry in front of my bible study group (those tears led to obedience, so I guess it's okay)!
Thanks for sharing your life.
Thanks for changing ours.
We thank God for what He has done in us through your study.
Kelly,
How fun to discover your note today!! Bless you for listening to God and writing NOG. I'm not finished yet, but I am getting there. God has gifted you well!
Thank you Kelly. I loved this study so much and it really changed me. I did it on my own then led it as a group this summer and I can now say with humility that the Word is continuing to keep me free of the ties that seek to bind this girl.
thank u for allowing God to use you! You reminded me a lot of Beth a long the way. Of course I did breaking free oh about 7 times.
Great study, Kelly. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and passion for God and His Word. Will be sharing this study with many women in the future. God bless.
Dear Kelly,
I can not begin to tell you what an impact this study has made on my life over the course of the summer. It was truly an eye opener to things that were taking God's rightful place in my life. I loved your writing style. It was like talking to a close friend. I hope that you will write another in the future. I am praying God's richest blessings for you!
Much Love and Many Prayers,
Lisa in SC
Kelly,
We all thoroughly enjoyed your study this summer. Your simple, down to earth, writing style made it such a pleasurable experience. Looking forward to your next.
Kelly, I looked forward to doing my study every single day. It was so great. Thank you for sharing it with us. I have MADE ROOM and my life has been changed. Praise God!
Well, Kelly, our group is holding our last meeting tonight. This study has been such a blessing - as both life-changing study of God's word and a sweet time of bonding, eating, laughing, crying... well, you know. We'll be doing Stepping Up this fall with a big group, but we're looking forward to another Living Room study. Any headed our way?
dear Kelly
my daughter Lynn suggested we do this blog bible study, & honestly I thought it would be hard since we all lived in difference states, & she was in Germany~but this study has been the best for us all and has crossed the miles between with wit,tears,joy & a desire to clean our idol closets. We have so enjoyed all the humor, & honesty you shared with us & the study of scripture got me back on track to set up a regular study quiet time to savor the "word". Bless you as you start your next adventure with "Him".
Califorinamum,pinkboots& Rhinestonecowgirl~
Thank you Kelly for a great study
Sharon in Wisconsin
Kelly,
You are the REAL deal. I so appreciate that you allowed God to birth this through your life. We are blessed beyond measure by your insight and vulnerability.
May GOD ABUNDANTLY bless you and POUR YOU OUT! Praying for you as you write the next installment!
Much love to you!
Kelly, what a wonderful gift you are to the body of Christ. Looking forward to hearing more from you!For one reason or another I was unable to do the study along with the Siestas this summer. Last week I took time to read through some of the blog commments, which then led me to read an excerpt of the study (still available online at Lifeway.com), which then led me to order the book. The next day I called the Lifeway store here and had them set aside 3 member books for me, my sister, and my aunt. We all started Day One today and are looking forward to meeting each week to share what the Lord is doing through this study. To Beth and all the Siestas, thanks for sharing on the blog. Your archived thoughts, struggles, comic relief, and encouragement add so much to the experience of this study - even today for the stragglers!
Blessings,
Heather
I started this study thinking, "Oh, this will be a nice little summer study. I don't have problems with idols."
Well, God challenged me on a not so obvious idol that was created long ago as a result of a traumatic childhood. As I began reading the study, God tenderly showed me the "hidden" idol. Throughout the weeks of working on the homework, God overwhelmed me with His counsel and His peace. It is so freeing to feel so bound to Him instead of the idol I had unknowingly internalized so long ago! Praise God.
Thank you for the time and effort that you put into creating this study.
Kelly,
Thank you for being real with us! You easy manner and deep thoughts to bring us to wonderful personal relevations is very appreciated. Thank you for allowing Him to work through you!
sarah
Kelly - I don't even know where to begin. Thank you - for starters -for allowing the Lord to use you to teach us this much needed material!This study was enlightening - no - revolutionary! It revealed more idols than I care to admit. (especially after walking thirty 30 years with the Lord, but each chapter revealed more) But as I finish the last chapter, it was so encouraging to be reminded to not look back or go back! One idol in particular of needing to be my girls protector and not acknowledge that God alone keeps them in His hands - I thought I had made room for God - but then as one relapses, one has a life-threatening accident, and one a faith crisis, it is good to know that I can trust my God and not turn back to thinking it's all my responsibilty. I have so far to go, so many to dethrone, I will probably be re-doing this study!Thanks for your honesty and compassion. Every Bible study, we pray Lord, let this be life changing, and truly - this one has been!
Hey, Kelly,
I loved the study. I loved your writing style. I loved the format of the workbook especially after listening to my NOGS siesta and having it spiral bound at Kinko's. A $5 miracle courtesy of Michele!!!! I loved the recipes and cooking even though I did gain weight because of it. I loved Beth facilitating for us. I loved all the new and near siestas I met because of Beth and because of you and chiefly because of God and His glorious plan for our lives.
Can't wait for the next study!!!! Looking forward to Beth facilitating that also.
God bless you, Kelly!!!!
Kelly, this mother-to-three-small-boys thanks you from the bottom of her (my) heart for helping me let go of things that were preventing me from embracing the call of motherhood right now. I finally feel free to be exactly where God has called me. I am grateful for the study and am looking forward to all the future freedom as God and I continue to work through this topic.
Britany
Kelly,
Thanks for being so obedient to God and writing this study! My eyes have been opened to a whole new world of freedom. Your realness was comforting. It's nice to know I'm not the only one! You rock. xoxo
Thank you Kelly,
My group was 14 strong!! Women of all ages and I have to tell you that it was a sad departing when we met last. We LOVED the study God gave to you to pen for us and it was a great way to spend our summer. We laughed, we cried,and most importantly, we said goodbye to idols that have kept of from the purposes God has intended us for. I pray you will do more like this one and continue to bless us with your teaching.
BY the way....the meal idea thing was priceless. I am a follower of Christ first, but also a Southern Baptist and we love to eat!!
Blessings to you siesta,
Royana (AKA Isaac's Mom)
Kelly ~ Thank you SO SO much for writing this study! I'm experiencing freedom from an idol that I have dealt with for a VERY long time. Praise God!! Keep writing Sister - we're waiting for the next one! Thanks for your obedience to the Lord!
Wow! Thanks for that Kelly! It is not often you get to chat with the author of the Bible study you just finished!
I could relate so well with what you were teaching and often felt like I could have been sitting in the room with you. I would not have had an email as wise and graceful as your other nogs provided you, but I totally could jump into the group with the story telling and humor that went on! I love to laugh in a group of women who truly love God. The laughter is somehow different...but just as contagious!
Thanks for opening up yourself for us---to help us become truly free!
Paige
Greetings Kelly, and welcome to Siestaville! What a wonderful surprise it was to have a note from our NOG teacher!
Thank you for writing this study. I admired your transparency, honesty, and conviction throughout the entire thing. You have challenged us over and over, and we have highlighted the fool out of our pages:) I especially was convicted about how our idols can be good things that we love too much. Thank you for opening our eyes to the small and big idols, and for challenging us to make room in our hearts for Him!
May God continue to bless you! Thank you again!
Thank you, Kelly, for writing this study. God spoke to my heart and opened my eyes to the idols in my life. I did not realize they were there.
7 "When my life was ebbing away,
I remembered you, LORD,
and my prayer rose to you,
to your holy temple.
8 "Those who cling to worthless idols
forfeit the grace that could be theirs.
9 But I, with a song of thanksgiving,
will sacrifice to you.
What I have vowed I will make good.
Salvation comes from the LORD."
Jonah 2:7-9
Thank you for answering the call to write. Many have been blessed by No Other Gods.
Blessings to you, dear Siesta.
Mary
Kelly,I have said this before and I mean it... I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that God had you do this book and study for me. I related to this book from beginning to end. I thank God and I thank you for this book and study. I do not have the words for what this study has done for me. God Bless, CINDY in HIGH POINT, NC
I have to admit that I fell in love with your spirit 2 years ago when I got the CD "Wrestling the Angels"... I am a lyrics girl and the lyrics on that thing slay me!!! I must defer to "This is my Offering" on a daily basis, cause if it costs me nothing what is it really?
Thank you for listening to Him even when it hurts! I have some friends who lay some claim to you as they say they knew you when you sang with Scarlett Hope (Dave Whitford)... and I guess you even came to our church once before I started going there (Crossroads Community Church in Ridgecrest). Anyway, I loved the study, I got my mom to do it too, but she didn't ever log on. I love you and pray for you and can't wait to see you when we all go home!!!
Judy
Dear Kelly, Thanks so much for the study. I was a late joiner, but have been working through the study. I started in July and I am now half finished. It has blessed me so much and I have been able to share with others a few of the things I have been learning. I just shared your perspectives on fear on another blog last night. It occured to me that when you said fear attaches itself to something, how the "fear of the Lord" fit into that. The Lord is really where we should take all our fears and where fear is healthy. The study has been great and relistening to Beth's videos is fun too. Who knew some of the tips she has shared!
Wow Kelly,
So good to get a "live" comment from you! The ladies from a small group in Oregon are so thankful to have done this study this summer. I am not the least of these.
As I write this, God is taking me to a new place. I have always dealt with my idols one at a time, now I am in a situation where a lot of the buttons that took me to my idols are being pushed all at once. Mercy! I thought I was going to lose my mind last night, but now I can see what is happening. The waves and expanse of this body of water aren't quite as intimidating. His hand feels more sure and the water at our feet makes me feel truly "giddy as a school girl".
Thank the Lord for His mercy. I thank Him for your obedience and your offering as you shared a part of your life with us.
Bless you Kelly Minter! May He bless you 100 fold.
Love to you,
Jina Patton
Thank you so much Kelly for your study...for your words of encouragement...for your transparency...for following the Lord down the road of freedom from idols. Thank you for leading us (hundreds and hundreds of siestas as well as our mama siesta and her two baby siestas) right into the presence of the Lord and for encouraging us to let go of those idols and make room for God.
Your study has been amazing and I am forever changed! Love you girl!!! Am praying for you.
Bethany Silva in Merced, California
Kelly, it was an incredible study! Life changing for me! You have so much wisdom to be so young! I know the Lord has even greater plans for your sweet life!
Praying for you as you live free!
Much love!
Kristi B.
Dear Kelly,
Just wanted to say thank you for your obedience and a special thanks to your NOGS for sharing their struggles and wisdom. This study really revealed idols i did not know i clung to. May you all be richly rewarded.
Our group also enjoyed the Nashville stories since we live in White House (north of Nashville off I-65).
Much love to you. Ephesians 3:20-21
Thanks so much, Kelly....the study was great - so enlightening and helpful! Sooooooo, when is the next study coming out????? Can't wait!!!!!
Thank you, Kelly! One of my functional idols is my laptop! I so appreciated the study and how it helped me to put it in its proper place...
Hi Kelly ! : )
I *~LOVED~* what you said about our jealous God vs. somebody else's " passive " God ! AMEN AMEN AMEN !! LOrd THANK YOU for being a jealous God .
Love you Kelly ,
Elizabeth
I am thankful to God for inspiring you to write this Bible Study. Thank you for your gift of time in putting it all together for us. Also thank you for being open and real in the study...It truly was a special time this summer that my daughter and I had together doing the study...God's Word definitely makes a difference in our lives!!!
Hi Kelly ! : )
I *~LOVED~* what you said about our jealous God vs. somebody else's " passive " God ! AMEN AMEN AMEN !! LOrd THANK YOU for being a jealous God .
Love you Kelly ,
Elizabeth
We want to Thank YOU!!!! We are so blessed to have been able to be apart of this. You had so many insights into Bible stories that gave us things we had never thought of before. Please know God did some amazing things in our hearts and we are grateful to your obediance to Him. In Jesus' Love Kathy and Stephanie Knoblock--Mother-Daughter study
Nashville dolly,
We think you are funny...me and Debbi and Jodie. Last week we got to Jodie's and she had dinner packed up in a picnic to go! She said, 'get in the car...we're outta here!' We've been friends for 8 years and this study brought out a ton to force us to go deeper and hold each other accountable with. For me personally, I really enjoyed reading and relating to a single gal that is willing to wait for God's best and BELIEVE. God is using your singleness and God's got some awesome man out there for you that will give your funniness a run for it's money- honey! Thanks for being obedient to write...we look forward to the next study already!:)
Laura from Zeeland, MI 'Feel the Zeel!'
p.s. we have two weeks to go because we had to work around vacations...we will finish...that's just how we are!
Thanks, Kelly.
By the way, you were right about Becker's Pasta! We've eaten it more than once already!
Tami in La
Kelly siesta! Just checking in to say what a great thought provoking study God blessed us with through you. Our girls at church are already asking to do another one of your studies. Thank you for losing your idols and helping us lose ours!
Dear Kelly,
Thank you for pouring your heart out on our behalf.
I took a highlighter to your book and marked all that I have felt for years that I could never put into words. I finally decided to mark only what did not directly apply! There was not much that fit that category.
My favorite part was your encouragement to STAY long enough to let God do what He needs to do.
You have been a huge blessing and I am grateful. Thank You.
Dear Kelly,
This Bible study was a great blessing to me. I have two more days to finish, but wanted to let you know that God used this study to take me out of a desert. I thought I had let go of an idol in my life, but there were some steps God wanted me to take to make it final. Your honesty was a blessing and an encouragement. Thank you (and Beth) from the bottom of my heart.
With love,
Your Siesta Friend in Massachusetts,
Shelley
Kelly,
This is the exact study I needed right now in this season of my life, I want you to know that God used you to touch me where I needed to be touched and changed. I want to thank you for following God and doing this study...
You are in my prayers...
Connie
GBU
Thank You Kelly for a great study. I'm a kindergarten teacher in a christian school, and totally enjoyed my summer vacation with you and Beth.:-) What a blessing! God bless you!
Sweet precious Kelly! I do love the picture of you sipping a mocha latte and reading through these, glorying with the LORD in what He has done through you in this study.
It was my first time leading some women through and I LOVED it! I loved cooking for them, praying for them, having them in my home. It was great! And the study itself, well, our God is an awesome God and He had precious plans for me in it. So, thank you for being faithful to do as He asked of you. I gave my offering and gained freedom! AMEN!
with love, Adrian
Oh and I forgot to say, one of the things I loved was that you seem like someone my girlfriends and I would meet for coffee! Yay!
Maybe someday in God's heavenly cafe...
xoxo
Thank you Kelly for being obedient to God's call in writing this Study. It was an amazing experience this summer. This is the first Bible study that I have hosted. I stepped outside my comfort zone and asked 12 women to participate. Most of the time we averaged 8 women per meeting. It was the most beautiful experience. To share this study and our hearts with each other. Who knew we had so many idols, so little time!!! We have truly grown through this study and I know that we have not yet begun to reap our harvest!!
Thank you especially for sharing yourself. Your honesty was inspiring, funny and heartwarming. We can't wait to do another living room series study. We actually have decided to stay as a study group, invite a few more who wish to participate, and pick a study for October! See what you started!!
In His Love, Lori
Thank you Kelly for being obedient to God's call in writing this Study. It was an amazing experience this summer. This is the first Bible study that I have hosted. I stepped outside my comfort zone and asked 12 women to participate. Most of the time we averaged 8 women per meeting. It was the most beautiful experience. To share this study and our hearts with each other. Who knew we had so many idols, so little time!!! We have truly grown through this study and I know that we have not yet begun to reap our harvest!!
Thank you especially for sharing yourself. Your honesty was inspiring, funny and heartwarming. We can't wait to do another living room series study. We actually have decided to stay as a study group, invite a few more who wish to participate, and pick a study for October! See what you started!!
In His Love, Lori
Kelly:
You are a wise sage to be so young, and because of your obedience to write, I am a blessed woman.
The Women's Ministry Leadership team - 10 women - went through the NOG's study and met in my home.
Besides the richness of the study and what we gleaned - we grew closer together as a team and I believe it was the home study - shared meals, fellowship and all that. I look forward to how we will work more closely this next year as we serve and minister together.
May God bless you, keep you, and encourage you greatly. You have a great gift for conversational writing and depth - simultaneously.
Jan Morton
"Georgia Jan"
Romans 15:13 <><
I would bow down to you, Kelly, but I'm a NOGS FINISHER! Your Bible study was such a blessing to me. Even though I did it solo, I really enjoyed the feeling of fellowship and communion you brought to Bible study. I can see why this would be such a good home study for seekers.
The lessons you taught had to have been very hard for you to go through. Letting go is hard. I am so glad you were faithful to press on in your own personal "letting go." Your faithfulness has been an encouragement to me and to so many others~
And I DO bow down to God...my One and Only God...for teaching me and loving me through this study. May God bless you more than you can imagine for your faithfulness.
Kelly,
What a blessing your study has been to me. God has showed me so many things I needed to clear away. The last chapter spoke to me as if God had it just for me. (I love it when He does that.) I had been praying some of the same scriptures you had given. I know no other god can deliver and it makes me love my "One and Only" with a greater love. The past has been my god for such a long time. This study has helped me have a stronger faith in the plan God has for me. I can trust even if I don't know what God has for me I just have to trust Him and be obedient.
Thank you for allowing God to use you. Thanks for being real!!
I have a group of young ladies starting this study this September. I am excited to go back through it with them.
I expect to see more from you.
You are a sweet sister. Many blessings to you Kelly!!
Melissa
Georgia
Thank you Kelly! I LOVED the study. I was able to relinquish an idol I have been dealing with for years! It's marvelous to be free. Now God has given me a new task to perform since I have made room for him. I loved your writing style. I plan to do the study again in about 6 months and work on other idols. Please write more studies! God bless you!
WOW - LOVED how God used you this summer - your study - it was just what I needed this summer. Thank you SO very much. Sunshine
Kelly..you are awesome! God is huge thru you!!
You said..."We get free so we can move and be and do the things of God. I am now doing things that I simply couldn’t have done before because I was tied up..."
Well, my idol is food. A good thing gone bad. Anyway, you are right because I need to get free so "I can move". Then the "simple things" like tying my shoes and zippin my britches will be so much easier. haha, you should pray for me!
No, seriously! The study was life-changing! And, I was serious, prayin for me would be a good idea.
Thank-you Kelly, for the study. It was so wonderful to stay in the Word this summer with my siestas.
Much love and thanks again from Wyoming
Melana
Kelly,
Thank you for the awesome study! I wasn't brave enough to try to lead a study, but my kids got the benefit of what I was learning also! Thank you for helping me to leave things out that needed to be kicked out a long time ago! You are an awesome writer, and I look forward to doing more of your studies!
Love you,
Delilah in Arkansas
Just when I begin thinking I am the only person alive or dead, that has ever felt his way or had thoughts that would make the hair on a porrcupine stand up--strighter. I know God's not done yet but I do know that he's done a work in me through this study. Thanks for your insight and willigness to share your stories with us. carla lee
Thanks Kelly for this terrific bible study. Some of the things you said ," especially false memories" Really Really hit home, because the very next day I studied that, I did it anyway. :D But then I repented because I now know what to do. Thanks so much.
Jeani Allen
Kelly - I couldn't get through the study this summer, but what I read I loved so much that I passed along to our education director at church for a women's bible study this Fall. I can't wait to go through the study with my "girls"!
Just wanted to say thanks so much for this incredible study. Our group here in Jacksonville, Florida consisted of seven...some young some a little older and GOD has been so good to teach our hearts from HIS WORD this summer. Our group has not been able to meet on the same scheduled days that all of the other Siestas have been meeting, so, while eveyone is else is wrapping up we will continue to meet. I wanted to share something that was shared at our last meeting two weeks ago. One of the ladies looked at me and said, BUT VICKY, we know all of this WHY DO WE STRUGGLE SO. GOD gave me the answer even as we were sitting there. This is going to sound very simple, but it is true. I said to her and to our group...we simply don't believe what we say we know. If I tell my 10 year old that if she does xyz then abc is going to occur, what she believes will determine how she responds. The same is true in our walk with GOD. If we BELIEVE HIM then we will respond to HIM according to HIS WORD. It is when we say we believe, but don't respond that our lives give testament to the fact that we aren't believing and we need to repent of that unbelief and ask GOD to grow us beyond ourselves.
Thanks Kelly for writing this study. It has had a profound impact on our group here in Jax...particularly on my own life. This has been a tough year so far and GOD used this study to show me my own unbelief and how I was making "g"ods out of good things in my life.
I love y'all! I love HIM for allowing us to be a group of SIESTAS!
Because of JESUS-
Vicky
Kelly,
This was such a great study. Thank you so much for sharing your personal journey with us. It has opened my eyes to idols I didn't realize I had and shown me how to make room for our God with a capital "G." May He continue to bless you!
YOU ROCK GIRL!!
I loved it- every bit.. as hard and tear jerking and heart circumcising as it was... it was just what I needed while I waited for the sell of the home.
It sold of course AFTER I finished my homework..He was just making sure that this move and the house was not a god in my heart... I surrendered it all and well...I'm not typing from Lincoln, NE right now if that tells you anything.
If I only had the talented words to express how thankful I am for the surrender you have to have written that study. Right on.
HALLELUJAH TO THE KING ALMIGHTY..
To Him who is able to keep us from falling, and to present us faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, to the only wise God our Saviour, be GLORY and MAJESTY, DOMINION and POWER, both NOW and EVER, AMEN. Jude 1:24-25
Brooke in southern IN
Thanks Kelly and the nogs! It was a life changing study. I at first had a difficult time finding my idols, but once I did I was ready to get them out! It is amazing that so many people are worshiping these things and do not know it!!!! I just want to go up to people and say "do you know you are doing this?" No Other Gods was awesome, write another one!
The study was an eye opener for me about idols. I never realized the depth of idols or how much I was influenced by them in my daily life. The study has helped me to question "why" in relation to the strong feelings of fear, hanging on, winning a fight, etc and in turn has helped me in my relationships. I drank in every word of this study and just had to buy the non-study book. Reading the book along with the study was in a sense for me doing a study with another person. It gave me insight into other possible idols, etc. Even though I have a veeery limited spending amount for books (translation $0, usually do the library thing) this was one book that I just had to buy. Thanks, Kelly, for being honest in both books and for a writing style that made me feel that I was hanging out with a friend.
Dear Kelly,
I started your study with a 3 week old newborn baby boy. My idols smacked me right in the face. Fear of not being a good mommy, fear of not knowing what to do, fear of not getting enough sleep(sleep is the big idol for me!) Although I have not finished yet (crying baby and diapers get in the way-but in a good way if you know what I mean) I am still working my way through the study. In a week and a half I am going back to work, and I can pretty much put those false gods behind me. The new one popping up is the guilt of not being a stay at home mom. Lord, I hand this false god over to you...
Thank you Kelly!
ps, the most darling little baby pics on my blog if you want to see who I was praying over while doing your study!
love,
sarah-Pinehurst NC
Thank you for sharing your life and being willing to write this Bible Study! I really loved it and needed to get rid of a few idols myself!
OKAY - so...codependency is my 'deal'...idol seems so -- dead on!!! I began this specific journey 7 years ago - oh funny that #7...I've been trying to rid myself of it all this time. I studied Breaking Free last fall and felt I made more headway (obviously I made more 'way in my head' than in my spirit) anyway - the whole codependency deal reared it's ugly head 2 weeks ago regarding a friend-fast forward-I began re-visiting this 'idol' when a friend asked 'how did you break free?'. The real question to me became, 'have I really broken free?'. In actual fact, I became aware of my reasons for codependency but not until the last study in NOG relating to Ruth did I realize there is a HARVEST awaiting. Oh, WOW! Then when I read Kelly's post on the LPM blog, I realized like Kelly 'for so long I simply wanted to be free from the things that controlled me. What I didn't understand was WHAT THAT FREEDOM WAS FOR...free for His purposes.' Lastly, as I read my devotional today the confirmation was there again...'I must win deliverance by rising higher, coming into a NEW EXPERIENCE WITH GOD.' ALL PRAISE AND GLORY TO HIM...
Kelly,
I had no idea what God had in store for me when I began your study! I have been set free of a long-time idol to food while working through this (and lost more than 30 pounds so far)! I have been so amazed by God's timing as I would sit down each day to read and find that it was exactly what I needed to hear that specific day. The other siestas in my group were amazed as well!!
My single women's small group (a different group) leader saw the transformation taking place in me and has asked me to lead that small group through the study (we began this past Sunday!).
I am glad to get to share with you the impact that your book has had on me personally. I thank you for your obedience to writing it. I am overjoyed with the rewards of surrendering my idol and offering it back to God as my sacrifice. It has been an incredible journey.
God bless you!
kelly, thank you so much for sharing that idols laid down opened up areas for God to work and some of those areas are small but meaningful. i have no idea what the Lord will do with the space yet, but I am encouraged to know it'll be perfect and just for me. You are truly a blessing and I pray you feel how much I and the others love you!
Thank you, Kelly! Though I finished over a week ago, God is still revealing insights to me and leading me through the process of dismantling a huge idol in my life. All to make room for Him and His purpose - just like you said, "living in the purpose of freedom". I thank God for you - love your writing style. It's funny, personal, and relatable - and piercing without condemnation. You are a blessing to the body of Christ and to your Sisters (or Siestas, rather!). :)
Thank you Kelly for an eye opening experience! Who'd a thought we had those idols around our home??
Husbands, kids, jobs....what???
Thank you for being so real and making us be real with ourselves.
Not mailing the entire envelope, but hanging onto the corner....I do that so I can "help" God. Ah, maybe control is the better word.
Also using a football game to show us what happens when we "leave" early!! How sharp was that?? But oh so true!! Why do we give up?? I personally give up cause God doesn't work fast enough for me. I either take control or just back off from praying. Back to the floor on my knees and face.
Thank you Kelly!!
Blessings from the Bible Bunny in
No MI.
Georgia
Thank you Kelly for being willing to be the Lord's servant. Just as an FYI, a group of us at my work are going through the study now. We are meeting today for week 2 and I am very excited about what God has already done in my own life. If people would pray for us, we would appreciate it!
~Elise, WA
This study left a mark on my life like no other. I usually finish a study with a deer in headlights look as I try to make sense of what I learned. This time, on the other hand, I followed right along the entire way as God took me step by step through the study and will continue to work it out throughout my life! Love, Jessica
Kelly,
Don't have the space to let you know how much God used this study in me. My life has had a lot of dramatic (read, scary) changes during this time, and as a result of this study. The timing was perfect. I got a week behind, but when I picked it back up again, it was even more timely.
Thank you for letting God use your talents and your story to lead us to freedom.
Amy Storms
I didn't do the summer Bible study but I did read the book and benefited from it greatly. A fellow teacher and I are going to do the study this fall, meeting once a week after class as she knows it will be of great relevance to her. Thanks for your honesty, sense of humor, insight, and openness to be used by the Lord.
Kelly!! I feel like I have a new friend after spending the past 8 weeks with you!
Thank you so much for opening yourself up to following God's leading in writing this study. It absolutely, without a doubt ROCKED MY WORLD!!! I gained so much from this study, but more importantly it helped me to LOSE so much! I find myself writing "MAKE ROOM!" over everything; planner, journal, study notes, shopping lists, anything and everything!
I wish we could just sit down over a cup of coffee and chat! But thank you, thank you, for making this study available to us! Be blessed!!
Wow-Kelly-"thank you" just doesn't seem enough for your openness and willingness to share and be vulnerable. I loved the study so much I got your book and am not reading it too! I use to live in Nashville and miss it! (Worked at Opryland) You have been such a blessing to all the Siestas as we learn and grow. Thank you again and look forward to another study :-) P.S. Love your humor too!!! See what I do for a living!
Hey Kelly! I just wanted to say hello and to thank you for your obedience to God, it is through your obedience that we have all benefited!!! I hope to share parts of this bible study with my high school volleyball team, I see so many false gods in teenagers lives. You can pray for me as I do this. Know that I am praying for you! I have often over the years! You have been a blessing to many and I know you will continue to do so. love you girl!
your fca sports camp buddy,
cindy kelly
I just finished week 2 of No Other Gods. I kept thinking all summer that I wanted to do it, but was too busy. (I always watched the videos and kept up with the blog)I finally decided I would do it alone (after the simulcast). I was telling a friend at church about it last week, and was surprised when she told me she had also just started it herself. So now we have decided to do it together! Last night when I finished Day 5 of week 2, I felt like I had been through some intense therapy with God. Thank you Kelly and Beth for leading me to this! Also, I have had such a blessing from memorizing Jude 24,25!
Hey Kelly! I just wanted to say hello and to thank you for your obedience to God, it is through your obedience that we have all benefited!!! I hope to share parts of this bible study with my high school volleyball team, I see so many false gods in teenagers lives. You can pray for me as I do this. Know that I am praying for you! I have often over the years! You have been a blessing to many and I know you will continue to do so. love you girl!
your fca sports camp buddy,
cindy kelly
Thank you Kelly!
The timing of this study was just so like God! Perfect - of course!
I love your writting style very much - you made me laugh, cry and help me gain some new insight.
Will also be looking for more from you and will never look on a Dr Pepper the same way :-)
Abundant Blessings!
Linda
The LORD bless you and keep you;
the LORD make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you;
the LORD lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace.
Num 6:24-26 (NRSV)
Kelly, thanks for allowing God to use you through this study. Sometimes we really need to look closely at what we spend our time, energy and money on. So much of it is wasted on that which does not satisfy. Only God can truly satisfy! Thanks to your NOG friends for sharing.
Kathy in PA
thanks to everyone, I began to understand I had idol issues when I did Breaking Free, but your study helped me dig down and deal with it, its been a blast and so hard in the same breath ! Freedom isn't cheap but I'm enjoying it more and more ! Thanks again, God Bless, I'm sure we'll see more of each other in the future !
Lisa
I hope your new found freedom includes writing another bible study! I can't wait for yournext one!! Being a NOG has been life changing - thank you for the opportunity to go deeper.
Dear Kelly,
Thank you for writing such a relevant Bible study. I flew solo, but felt like I was in your living room with Lauri, Alli, Anadara, Carrie and you. I really appreciated your candid vulnerability and comfortable writing style. Hey, why don't you write another Bible study soon? I'll miss meeting with you every morning. God bless you!
This was an awesome Study. One desperately needed. Thanks so much. Loved the set up of the book. When is the next one coming out?
Suz'
Kelly-
Hi! I can't thank you enough for letting God use you! Our group LOVED your study! It was amazing! It really made me search my heart... I laughed, cried, and was so touched by the hand of God throughout the study! Thank you sweet Siesta! It was a JOY!
God Bless! Emmy : )
Thank you, Kelly, for providing a good solid study - the first my college-student daughter and I have ever shared in a small group setting. It was relevant to both generations. Blessings!
Hi Kelly,
What a nice surprise to see your post here. "No Other Gods" is now one of my all-time favorite studies. I'm still processing it. I look forward to more studies from you. : )
KS
Kelly, thanks for your book. I think I'll give God a try.
I've got 1 more day to complete the study!!! God has really worked in my life this summer through this study...I'm "making room."
I love your writing style and look forward to another study by you.
God bless!
well I didn't quite finish ..yet. I only have one more week to go.
just wanted Beth and Kelly to know.
Courageous study Kelly and thank you Beth for bringing it to my attention
This was an unbelievable Bible study. I can't wait to do the next one that Kelly writes. I think God has put His hand on this girl! She writes with such clarity. She is funny, and yet she says things that really stick with you. Oh Lord, please please bless her and keep her strong and secure in Your love. Give her lots of opportunity to share what she has learned...for all of our sake.
Kelly,
Your study was exactly what our group needed. It helped us to unearth some very deep-rooted idols that we just weren't even willing to acknowledge we created before now. I anticipated each day of reading. In fact, I'm rereading it to soak up more of the truths I may have overlooked the first time. Thank you for your transparency and your faithfulness.
Kelly I really enjoyed your Bible study. At first I thought this is not going to be for me No Other Gods? I was so sure I would not have another god. Big surprise God really opened my eyes. What a great soul searching and blessings I have have found. Thank You and I loved the music. Be Blessed J frm AL
Kelly- You are FABULOUS! I loved your study and I learned SO MUCH. Amazing the idols that can be in our lives without us even realizing that is what they are. I thank God for the work He is doing through you! Keep it up sister!
Thanks so much for sharing this with all of us Kelly! It could not have come at a more perfect time-Thank you Jesus. I have a feeling this will be one of those studies I go back to as I continue to try and MAKE ROOM for my God to be HUGE. I hope God blesses your socks off in a way you couldn't have even imagined. Thank you again, and thanks Beth for facilitating.
Amy in TX
Thank you Kelly!
Wow!! Pretty much sums it up!
I find that God is showing me things from this study even now - 2 weeks later - that I didn't see as I went through it! I realized last night that one of my idols was fear! Now I have to choose to give it up and walk on! Not in fear but in faith! Thanks for your transparency! May God bless you richly!
Kelly,
Thank you so much for the bible study. I did it solo and even though I would have liked a group this worked out well for a busy summer for me. It really made me stop to think about all the things in my life and what I need to change. Oh, and I loved the music. I ordered Anadara's CD from her website and just love it. I had looked for your new one in a couple of stores and didn't find it(I do have one of your earlier ones)but then was happy to find it this past weekend at the Living Proof conference in San Antonio. And that was great since I was going to order one. I have it going on repeat in my car right now and am really enjoying it. And what an extra treat that you were able to attend the Siesta Fiesta also. I hope you write more studies and record more music in the future. They have both added things to my life. So from one Siesta to another, thank you.
Sheryl
Fort Smith, AR
I think one of the highlights of the study was the cooking. Our group had great bonding time and laughs over our meals...they were great. It was a great study for summer and enjoyed your insight Kelly and your personal testimonies. Sometimes I wish u could have been more specific but maybe u had a reason for vagueness.
It seems I could relate to many of your examples and I appreciate your heart in allowing God to work in and thru you. Thanks for serving HIm and being used by Him.
Kelly,
What a treat it was to do your study this summer. I started off with two girlfriends and ended up doing the study by myself with my husband reading over my shoulder. Your honest writing style laced with so much truth challenged me and motivated me to dig deep and search my heart for those functional gods that hold onto me. You spoke to my husband as well and gave us plenty to talk discuss. We've been married for 17 years and have three children involved in everything from sports to the arts. The gods, through our children, tacked onto the gods we struggle with present a journey that only through Christ can we have victory. My plan was to bond with my girlfriends over this study but God wanted my marriage to reconnect and refocus. I downloaded your song, Fire by Night and sing this daily as a prayer. Your rendition of "I'd Rather Have Jesus" is so precious to me. Thank you for your faithfulness.
Michelle Flanagan
Williamsburg, Virginia
BTW~ I am gathering a group of college girls from William and Mary to do your study this fall. I can't wait to see the study through their eyes.
Kelly,
Our group finishes your study tonight. As I hav been preparing for the discussion, I came up with a really cool thought and wanted to share it with you -
We leave our idols and we cleave to God. The picture of marriage! Gen 2:24 and Isa 54:5 your Maker is your Husband. Isn't that cool?
Thank you for writing this study. We have all profitted from it. God has really used you.
Dear Kelly & Beth,
Just wanted to let you know that here in Carson City, NV at my church we had six ladies finish the Bible Study and eight ladies finish the book this summer! None of them are bloggers but I'm so proud of them that I wanted to let you know. Here's a comment I received from one of the ladies who did the study "I enjoyed so very much the Kelly Minter study, and feel that it greatly impacted my life, and that of other women in our study. We all seemed to be in places in our lives where this was so healing and encouraging." And the leader of the Summer Book Club commented "Light summer reading...are you kidding me! God worked something into our lives with each chapter. It was great!" This group ranged in age from mid twenties to mid sixties and they had an awesome time together. Everyone, whether from the study group or the book group, agreed that they really enjoyed your writing style Kelly and God used you to minister to them! So thanks to you Kelly for your book and study and thanks to you Beth for your recommendation. PS. Beth we'll be doing Stepping Up this fall for our women's Bible Study and we're all really looking forward to it. We purchased our supplies during the Simulcast which by the way was a huge blessing to the ladies in our town. May God's power and annointing continue to rest upon you both as you faithfully serve his women.
Kimberly
Kelly and Beth, I just wanted to let you know that I did finish the study. Just today. I know it took me awhile but I got it done. Now I have to start Experiencing God. I was going to lead a different study but it didn't work out, so I'm joining the ladies at my church on Thursday mornings insterad. I really enjoyed the study, Kelly, and love your writing style and great personality. I didn't know at first how much I would relate to a single women when I'm in such a different stage of life, with a husband and 3 elementary school children, but I guess when it comes down to it we have all struggled with many of the same things, huh! And the Word applies to all of it! Thank God for that. I've changed my life a lot since last spring and it's sometimes a little overwhelming, but I'm hanging in there.
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