[Together as a She Reads Truth community, we are reading through Galatians. Sign up for the reading plan here!]
Paul is simply an apostle addressing the churches in Galatia, and now us, as one who is experiencing the peace and grace that comes from the beautiful Gospel – the good news that Jesus Christ died for our sins, by the will and for the glory of our Father. And we see immediately in Galatians that people then are just like people now (us) – people who quickly forget the truth of the gospel, who they were following, and are led away from great grace.
- Is anything bewitching you?
- Is there a person, a lie, a thought, a belief that is allowing you to believe anything other than the amazing news that you’ve been bought with the blood of Jesus for the pleasure and perfect will of God?
- Have we begun to live in a way that we aim to please men rather than the one who authored such Good News for us?
This time? We’re doing it together. Use the comments below to join in the conversation, prayer and discussion.
{ 160 comments… read them below or add one }
I’m in college and just took American religion this past semester. It was a great class and a real mind opener but at the same time it caught me off guard when I realized I found myself questioning my beliefs. Yes the gospel has been tainted so much by the world and its views we must spend more time in the word till we can not be swayed by the ways of this world. Praying for ears of spiritual clarity wherever I am.
I have always been a people pleaser, and although I am much better now than I was years ago, I still struggle. I found that in pleasing people, I will never gain a true relationship with God.Studies like this one really forced me to look inward. I am learning to overcome, but it is not easy. Please pray
for me. I am making progress, by God’s grace, but still need the prayers of my family in Christ.
It is so easy to fall into the trap of pleasing people, even though the very action takes me away from a close relationship with Jesus. Growing up I was introduced to Jesus, taught about Him, and accepted Him into my heart. Then came rules. In my adult life I still struggle with doing the right thing, by loving God and others. But now, because of life experience, I have learned that healthy relationships begin with love, and grow with boundaries. I believe rules tell us where not to go, while boundaries show us where it’s safe.
My greatest struggle is being a people pleaser. I want to love and help people but in the midst of it I find myself avoiding speaking the truth or worrying more about what others think than what God thinks.
I'm new to the "She Reads Truth" community but excited. I love the book of Galatians. So much good stuff packed in this little letter. I especially love the verse that says, "We're easily misled, we love adding rules, and we forget what makes a true disciple so quickly." Why is that? Why do I (we) love to add rules? I think we add rules when we become "unsure" of things. It's a lot harder and messier to work things out relationally than it is to slap a rule on something and then stand back and make snap judgments when people break "our" rules. God is teaching me about his freedom and the depth of his grace for us.
Just read the first reading and I am stunned:) Glory to God as we remove our hearts from the world and give it all to Him!
I Love what the Apostle Paul is saying here. It’s ashame that we as “Christians”, who are supposed to stand for Jesus Christ, are so easily persuaded by man. Jesus Christ has built us on a solid foundation and he expects for us to stand on what we’ve been taught, no matter who says otherwise…It’s so important that we pray for one another because the spirit of Apostasy is in the land, where people are calling right wrong and wrong right. We must stand on the truth
Grace and Peace
This was a right now word for me. As I made the declaration this year to stop pleasing people and solely focus on pleasing God, this devotional was confirmation to my one desire. I know it’s going to be a transition but I opened my mouth to The Lord and I won’t take it back. Once you want better you learn and do better.
I’m excited to be taking this. I think in our churches we still get caught up in showing how good we are by setting up more rules like what we can and can’t do on Sundays, and how to dress. People seem to want to show they are better than others because they don’t turn a computer on on Sunday. Are we any better than the Jews in Jesus times?we need to stick to the gospel.
I’m really excited abput the book o Galatians. The 4th verse of Chapter 1 gives us a sneak peek into what this epistle has for us:
the message of Liberty. We live in a world where we are so easily ensnared by possessions and status; this is an encouragement
for us. I pray that this journey through the book of Galatians will establish in us. Amen
I pray that my spirit, soul and body is refreshed as the Holy Spirit teaches me as He guides me through this study. This is also my prayer for other sisters who are on this journey with me.
Today is my first day with SRT, and I’m happy to be here. I agree that if we are being men pleasers how can we be effective for witnessing for Christ or anything? And when I once was a man pleaser it only came back to bite me figuritively speaking. And I did feel empty and useless afterwards like I was all washed up, but thanks be to God I’m learning more and going to church every Sunday and now sing with the Praise and Worship Team on alternating dates. Nice to meet you all.
I started this plan today, I have read Galatians on and off for years. recently I have become intently interested in what God has to say to me from Gal. I'm going to ask him to make His truth huge for me big, big, big. I have been crushed and heartbroken by church and I need to like the truth of Gal. Not churchy stuff…
I just started today and I’m excited about it because I have allowed myself to be distracted, this will really be to be back on track and be accountablem Thanks for this devotional.
I struggle daily with playing others and not focused Dooley on what God wants.
I think it’s one of the worst & best parts of human nature. We crave order & organization. But if that hunger is desperate enough, we’re bound to be easily misled!
My Pastor, delivered the Word today on the sovereignty of God and us forgetting who He is. This ties into who are we pleasing God or man. Made me look at me.
I have always had such a struggle with my weight. I’m seriously over weight. Not just a few pounds to lose but a major lifestyle change. In the past I have fell into the lies of society that I need to look a certain way. I was trying to fit it, to be a part of everyone. But the Bible says we are to be set apart from the world. Today is day one of my new lifestyle. I’m not doing it for the world, or to look like everyone else. I’m doing it to be healthy.
See with all this weight, it’s so hard to find energy to want to go and do the work He has for me. I get tired and many times I’m just too lazy. I want to lose this all so I can really say Lord, here am I, use me. And not take it back.
My weight gets in the way many times when I think about beauty. My husband knows I’m beautiful, but I have a hard time seeing what he sees. Thats all I focus on sometimes and being sickened with myself. I forget Jesus… How can I forget Jesus… I forget that He loves me more… I forget I’m special and unique… I forget who and what I really am. I allow my weight to get in the way. My focus needs to be fully on Him. It’s through Him I have power. And its through that I WILL change.
I know what you mean Stacy…I'm having a hard time myself but God's Grace is able to empower us with supernatural passion.
This is my first reading and I thank God for it and looking forward to the coming days. God bless you for sharing.
Somehow I think that most of you have missed the point of what Paul is saying . He is not teaching us not to be people pleasers. That is not his point.
Paul had been discredited by some who troubled them, preaching another gospel. In the beginning they had received Paul "as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus", Gal.4:14. Now they were putting a distance between themselves and Paul and embracing another gospel, other than the gospel of the grace of Christ , verse 6, which Paul had preached to them.
At issue is Paul's apostleship, which is what he deals with from verse 10 to the end of the chapter. The best way for the enemy to thwart God's purposes is to corrupt what He has said. We see this working of the enemy soon after God placed man in the Garden and instructed him not to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil – Gen.2:16-17. Then in Gen.3:1 the serpent enters the Garden and corrupts the word of God. His question to the woman: "Yea, Hath God said ? ", Gen.3:1 This is the same question the enemy was sowing in the hearts of the Galatians: Hath God said this or hath He said something else. Based on the comments here, that is exactly what most of you also are dealing with. What is it that God has said? What is Paul saying?
His very first point, which leaps right off the page in verse 1, is the declaration that he has been made an apostle by the risen saviour. What an authoritative claim! He puts himself right up there with Peter, James and John, all recognized apostles, pillars in fact of the Church in Jerusalem. Moreover, he claims to have been made an apostle by the glorified Lord Jesus Christ who is risen from the dead and seated at the right hand of God (read Acts chapter 9 where Paul hears a voice saying: Saul, Saul, why persecuteth thou me? and Paul answers: Who art thou Lord? And the voice says: I am Jesus). This is what Paul is talking about in Galatians 1. He is an apostle, called in person by the glorified Lord Jesus Christ in heaven. No other apostle claims this distinction!
An effective way to corrupt the word of God is to discredit the messenger. Isn't that what the Pharisees did to the Lord Jesus? Didn't they ask Him "By what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this authority to do these things?" – Mk 11:28. Paul's authority as an apostle is being questioned. This point is critical because if Paul is not an apostle than his gospel message is disputable. In this we hear the hiss of the serpent, calling into question the message that has been delivered unto them from the Lord Jesus Christ, through His servant, Paul.
It is true that we should please God and not people. It is also true that disregarding the clear word of God to please men is not the pathway to godliness. So what is it that God has said? Is He saying that we should please God rather than men, which is true? Or can we accept the plain meaning of what Paul has written: that he is an apostle, made so by the revelation of Jesus Christ and not by man? This is a major theme in this epistle and it is critical that we not divert attention to another subject that is dealt with elsewhere in scripture (Acts 5:29).
Instead of a law on tablets, the Spirit of the Lord writes His law on our hearts. It is a journey, I believe. We do not get understanding all at once. But as we seek, listen, believe, trust and walk in faith, He reveals the Word to us as we seek Him
I am humbled by all that I have yet to "see". As the Israelites, He won't leave or forsake those who seek Him with all their heart.
…I, too, have just found "She reads truth". I am looking forward to the articles and studies on this web site.
No one may notice this but I would like to leave my insight. I believe the “gospel” that the Jew Christians were sharing was a salvation achieve by works. It was a way of life familiar to them because of their “culture”. But in Christ’s gospel we are to first build a relationship with Him, ask Him to dwell in our hearts and guide us in all that we do. By having him in are hearts we do as Christ did, follow God’s commandments. We do not have to complicate the commandments given to Moses with more rules, because if we follow the two most important commands, in principle, we will follow the ten and any others that God deems important without realizing it.
Just started this plan today.I pray I can keep it going. I fail often at finishing devotions but need grace in my life.
I began today. This is my first study of Galations.
Janel10-
Welcome! So glad you're here!
I just began this plan today! And I am very excited to learn and grow deeper with the Lord! I love Paul, and his letters. He has a way of speaking that is so unique that I enjoy very much. I can’t wait to learn more and understand Galatians in a new and deeper way, through this study! :)
Gianna-
Welcome to the SRT community! So glad you are here!
I have a question: if the Gospel preaches freedom from the law, how is it that we please God? It seems like it would be by following the law… Is it just our faith in Jesus that pleases him? I’ve always been taught that its our behavior. Please pray that God changes my thinking so I can walk in the freedom without fear.
Hey Lindsey,
You are correct we have freedom from the law and so we are no longer bound to the traditions and trying to gain salvation by our works. But, when we act as God has called us to, we still please God. Think of it like a parent who still loves their children even when they are being bad, but when they obey, they are pleased. Our faith and our works please God, but our faith is what is needed for salvation. What Paul is saying when he asks this question is more "Do I seek approval from men or from God?" He answers to God alone and he doesn't care what men think of him. That mentality is what he describes in this section of Scripture.
Hope this helps! Lord, that you for your salvation and freedom that is already in Lindsey – help her to walk in the release that it provides, seeking only what pleases your heart and no longer being bound by what people may think of her. Transform her mind so that she can know her behavior doesn't save her, but her faith in you alone. Help her to walk through each day with your Spirit alive and moving in her. In Jesus Name – Amen!
I’m blessed & thankful to have found this study. I feel like I’m at a turning point in my life (in my walk w/God) & I’ve been struggling to do that which He asks of me, even though I know His way is perfect. Vs.10 really hit home for me: if I’m still trying to please man, I’m not a servant of Christ. My hearts desire is to live for Him in all I do. In my actions & in what I say, I want to glorify Him. But I find myself being lax when it comes to sharing Him with others or being way overly cautious in regards to talking about Him. Then i began thinking, He’s a part of every aspect of my day. I talk about & share Him with others whenever, (not to say I throw God in their face; but the verse that comes to mind is: from the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaketh.) In context of course. It’s time to get back to pleasing God & God alone, He will work on the hearts of those I come into contact with.
Pleasing man vs. pleasing God: seems an endless struggle, but I’ve found great freedom in areas where I’ve allowed the Holy Spirit to help me conquer this.
Example: compulsive need to lie to telemarketers. Telemarketers, of all people! lol Why should I care if they don’t like my reasons for not spending money? :)
The finished work of the cross is enough to set us free from every sin and stronghold. It is the cross plus nothing. As we receive His forgiveness and love, we can walk in true freedom. As we please God, we can make even our enemies at peace with us. Our focus should always be on walking in obedience to God’s Word and receiving His grace and love daily
You are so right. I understand your situation. Sometimes you just don't wanna let people down or I find that I'm angry with someone for a while bc of what they did. But honestly I can't change anyone. I have to let it go and allow God to change me even in the midst of the situation. When our problems are placed in His hands we will be victorious bc He will fight for us.
Sometimes I find myself stressing about something that is out of my control and its the simple fact that I am trying to please man instead of God. I have to remind myself frequently that I am living for God!
Why does the church easily forget the wonders of God even after having a great encounter, May God help the church in this present day
Galations. I have been led for a week to read and reread it. Very much looking forward to this study.
God walked me through a season of choosing rather I was going to please man or God. I failed most of the time but got it right a lot. At times I had to stand for what God’s word (aka rules) said but He also taught me how to do it in a way that offered freedom and grace vs burden and judgement.
When I really started to have a daily relationship with my heavenly Father and realize how HUGE His love and grace really are, the incredible sacrifice Jesus made for me knowing every selfish ugly choice I would make, yet He loved me anyway..it makes me want to make Him smile with the way I live my life every day. I want to show Him how grateful I am for His love and His sacrifice, for His great mercy in my life. I want to love Him more every day but it is easy to get caught up in trying to keep everyone happy! I love Him and we are called to love others and consider them above ourselves, so I think this always has to be a matter of prayer and really being sure of knowing God’s will, then doing it and always remembering that the Bible says others will know we are His by our love for one another.. that means love when it isn’t easy because anyone can love when it is. Don’t people please just to keep them happy but always show them love and kindness.
my desire is to please God, bit many times I find myself seeking mAns heart instead.
I absolutely love paul. His transformation is another testament to how awesome God is and if we respond to his encounter with us the proper way the wonderful ways he can use you
we often want to be accepted we want to have clothes & the car& the house. that is the problem I think that I’m having I want to be what others I think I should be instead of what God is telling me to be. I have to tell myself that it’s really doesn’t matter what others want it’s about God, he is the only one that I need to please and what He has for me is far greater than the riches of the world. I really need this lesson.
This is what I needed! I have been hurt by Pastor and his followers! My eyes were closed for years and when I ask God to open them and show me what was happening at my Hith where I use to attend I was heart broken! Once I started to do what God asked me to do for the ministry that I was leading the Pastor and others destroyed everything! But i know Whom I serve and Whom I follow! God. I sat down from the leadership there and I know God is moving me in a different direction to work for His Kingdom and not mans! Pray for me for healing my hurt heart! I am a servant of Christ and I am seeking for the new church where He wants me to worship with other believers and to receive , restore, and refresh my hurting soul!
I believe we try to please people with our clothes,houses,etc because we want people to reconize us,and we want to be accepted with the”IN”crowd. Then all at the same time some of the people don’t even like us.
Oh that I would truly understand what God did through Jesus.
I wanted to share a thought that has been trying to have me believe other than the amazing news of Christ’s blood and love for us. My sister recently had triplets and they were born premature about 3 months! The enemy has tried so many times to place thoughts in my head that they won’t make it, that something will go wrong,etc. I have to continually remind myself and these precious little ones of the purpose God has for them and the testimony they will one day share with the world!
So true Jade. Just started this reading plan on YouVersion app & I am really excited! I have only read a few verses from bible & never had help understanding it. Looking forward to learning Gods word!
I definitely think we seek to please people rather then God. Its easy to fall into that pattern. Its easy to seek approval from those around us instead of the One who knows us more intimately than anyone on earth ever could. Why do we bind ourselves to the acceptance of man that is hard to even get? When we don't need to struggle in that way for God's acceptance and love…
I feel almost as if my past sins and my current position that God has put me don’t mix almost like a better person than I should have the position .
This passage really reminded me how quickly we forget about God's goodness and grace in our lives. Personally, I know of several instances (unfortunately) where I'd JUST come out of a trial or storm, and not long after I'd already forgotten about God's grace. We get too comfortable when the storm passes, and overlook the God who saved us.
Paul's words in verse 10 are a great reminder to me about what's truly important. I'm sadly a people pleaser, and this verse reminds me that I'm not here to win the approval of others; I'm here to serve and honor the living God.
Thank you for this ministry! It's a great tool for me to focus on the Lord.
Today’s reading is a good reminder that I don’t need to be a people pleaser and that God loves me just as I am, even when I fall.
I love the book of Galatians. Hope to get a Good dose pf Good news the next 2 weeks
I've just been so concerned with what people may think about how I pray, praise and worship. This reading definitely helps me to remember that I serve God only and not man. I should be focused on pleasing God and aiming to please him and not God.I have been so silly to be caught up in the things of this world . This read is definitely what I need.
This is a great read. It is at times so easy to get caught up in our busy schedules and problems and forget the goodness and faithfulnesd of Jesus. But that is why reading his word and having a relationship with him is so important and crucial for us.
The fact that Paul is ‘astonished’ at how we have forgotten the essence of the Gospel points out to me how weighty it is. This is life-altering GOOD NEWS! How human of us to contantly forget it and strive to earn it or earn God’s approval by what we do. PTL (Praise The LORD) for His patience with us, His grace, His adoration of us.
- s
I have been living in sin since I was able to do things on my own and the life I was leading was truly the work of satan but I didnt understand it at the time. It took constant reminders of how powerful and beautiful life was when it was led through God and the Lord Jesus Christ. I am still on my journey to redemption and its getting easier as the days go by. I have always been a rebel in a bad and good way. I have been forgiving my whole life but yet at times I hold grudges against people that should be major factors in my life. I havent joined a church family because I never felt comfortable knowing that alot of people that are in the church do exactly the opposite when they are out of the church. I feel unworthy honestly. I have to do alot more soul searching and learn to be comfortable in my skin.
I love the Lord and fear God but does that mean that I have to be in a church to worship? I have so many questions and im glad that I found this web bible it has helped me in so many ways already and I will continue to devote as much time as I can to it.
I can relate. I loved God since I was a young girl, but my family didn't go to church (I tagged along as a guest with others whenever I could). I was a rebel, sometimes for the right reasons, but I had no guidance and I spent many years tricked by satan! I always prayed and praised God, but never felt like someone who belonged in a church. Well, I wanted to bring my children so that they didn't make my mistakes, and lo and behold, I love it. Those wonderful christian women are just like me! They are no better and no worse, and the fellowship there strengthens my relationship with God. I really urge you to try it, only because it has been so wonderful for me and I want the same for you.
I think that the main thoughts that keep me from living out God’s word is the thought of what others might think. I read a comment that said one of the things we do is tell non-believers that we accept and love them and want them comfortable. I believe very strongly in the idea of “love the sinner, hate the sin,” however the gospel is an uncomfortable thing. Jesus made many people uncomfortable with the truth. It should be our job to make others feel that unsettled feeling (but do it out of love) if we are to be Christ-like. I hope that makes sense :)
For the longest time now I have been lost in faith. I’ve been in some sort of denial and because of it my life and my faith has not gotten any better or anywhere at all. In all honesty, I’m miserable. I am miserable with my life and how everything is turning out to be. I’m exhausted of feeling so lost, so lonely, and so unsure of my purpose in this world. I’m too the point where I’m unsure of how to get back on Gods path or if ill even make it back all. I’ve gone through this back and forth motion with God for so long now and I’m tired of failing, giving up, and just not having the strength I used to have. Theres so much that I want for myself that I know I can have but I’m just STUCK. I want my mind and my heart to be where it needs to be which is right with The Lord and from reading Galatians 1-10, and some of the comments, I’ve learned that, 1) I can’t do this alone 2) Prayer, prayer and even more prayer is essential 3) I need to move my focus off the people around me and away from myself and focus on the one that can give me the life that he has planned for me. 4) I need to stop losing faith. I need strength in Gods word to keep me through the day, to keep me through my struggles, and to help me through the pain. 5) I need to believe and live again.
Please Pray for me.
You have no idea how much we are alike. Every word you said, I have been dealing with myself. I’m actually not even sure that I know how to pray. I want more for myself as well and I’m going to put in effort even if it just means starting off with daily readings. I wish nothing but the best for you because I feel your pain.
I understand. With all the things going on in the world it so easy to become distracted and lose faith,but God is a faithful and stable God. He does not change even when we do. Although you feel the way the you do God is still standing with his arms open wide ready to receive you and comfort you. I have had feelings somewhat like yours and it is a hard place to be. But I keep praying and asking God to strengthen my faith,my mind and my heart. I can feel myself coming out of it then something happens to blindside me and I fall into that slump again. Still God is All-Powerful,All-Knowing and Everywhere. As the song says,”Jesus Knows All About Our Struggles”. I pray that God will heal your life completely and give you TOTAL VICTORY!! You are VICTORIOUS now. But Total Victory comes when your mind,body and soul lines up with God. Seek Him for your purpose.
Be Blessed
Dear Heavenly Father,
I pray that I may receive strength and self control to complete this plan. I pray that I may continue to grow in faith and live my life through your words Lord. I thank you for bringing this amazing opportunity into my life! This I pray.
MKEBG
Last night I was looking for a devotional that was specifically for women and I came across this one. This is new to me but I am looking forward to the journey. The verses that really stuck out to me the most were 9-10. For years I have been a people pleaser and since I have been married I notice the toll it has taken. I want to be a GOD pleaser not a PEOPLE pleaser anymore & I am praying that God will give us all the courage and the strength to step out into His light.
I am very excited for this devotional. It’s amazing to me how the body of Christ is on one accord as many stated that Galatians is the current book of study in our Bible Study too!
It sometimes becomes easy to forget that we are under the grace of God through Jesus Christ and when I forget it causes stress for me when facing uncertainties in life.
Growing up, I lived in a family where making a living took precedence over pretty much everything else. I pretty much learned to do things myself. Now, at the very young age of 19, having endured the world pleasing race and always coming up short, I wanted to know just what in the world I was missing. I downloaded the YouVersion app and began sifting through devotional and reading plans from all over. None were reaching me. Sometimes, it even still feels like I’m reading a historical fiction novel and none of it really means anything. What I really need is to become an apprentice under a mentor that is sold out for God and who can put all this in perspective. Reading through just this first day has shown me that I may have found the source. She Reads Truth may be the support and accountability I need to dive in and begin chewing and tasting and digesting the Word. I enjoy reading the insight from all of the women of this group; from now Grandmothers with the wisdom of experience, to the Mothers looking for a way to have their kids grow up whole, to the young women just like me who, though I have attended many a church of many denomination, still have no idea who this Man is really about. I look forward to continuing my studies with you ladies.
Many times I have found myself guilty of being a people pleaser. God in his infinite wisdom and love has saw fit to set ordained failures and hardships in order for me to realize where and from who my help truly comes from. God is a good.
Galatians 1:6-7 " I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you to live in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel—7 which is really no gospel at all.Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ."
I think that this is a powerful statement because so often I have been debating God's word with peer pressure or my own fleshly desires. As they say "keeping it 100% with me"….well Jesus just did that and more! I've ask Jesus to make my thoughts His thoughts because I don't want to keep dwelling on empty,petty,selfish and fleshly thoughts. I need to be free of my own understanding of His will…you know when you try to interpret or process His word or our own circumstances, by approaching it with feelings or emotions. Emotions change, but God stays the same so I want to know the Truth without any misunderstanding because my feelings got in the way.
On the other hand there is that debate when you are involved in peer pressure. It sounds silly to even be talking about peer pressure at the age of 28, but it doesn't have to come in a form of a bunch of teenagers being rebellious. Peer pressure can be in a form of media infuence (those we relate to or admire on tv, in the magazines, or even in the music industry), a current boyfriend /male friend or a circle of girlfriends that we hang out with. You know today we are constantly hit with images and words that conflict with God's word. There are times you hear excuses or justifications in why it's okay to do dabble in thing you know God would not have you to do.
So the question God just asked me was very clear in which I had to take a deeper look at….who am I really following and trying to please? The answer would be easy,but now the issue is making sure my actions line up with my answer.
"On my own I'm a failure, but through Him I am on my way to becoming a winner. Thank you LORD JESUS for putting up with me!"-Tia
Discernment is INCREDIBLY important on this journey. Most times if its to good to be true…. then its probably a LIE or THE WRONG WAY.
This is my first bible study as well. I grew up a Christian and I've always been a believer but I never took the time to understand God's word. It used to be just words in a book for me but it is so muc more than that. I just started today and I'm so anxious about where it will take me. I hope that my relationship with God will become closer in faith and my life.
“Galatians that people then are just like people now (us) – people who quickly forget the truth of the gospel, who they were following, and are led away from great grace.”
It’s always interesting to see from the bible that there is ‘nothing new under the sun’ the divisions of the church persisted long before and still continue today. I believe that’s why we have so many different denominations of Christians when the focus should just be Christianity and being a follower of Christ-the ultimate reason for us to be able to deem ourselves as Christians and have access to the one true God
The last question really got to me! I'm currently in college and working 26 hours a week, and the load is slowly shaving off any energy I have to spend time in the Word. Being surrounded by lost people is a sure challenge of my faith, and aiming to please my new friends and coworkers has taken precedence over pleasing the Lord. Going to make a conscious effort to not make this the case!
Six months ago, I was a lot more concerned with what other people thought of me, and also with how my actions could prosper myself and give me attention or please others. But the last six months God has done some amazing work in my life, and my focus has shifted from myself to Him!
There’s still areas in my life that needs to be surrendered to Him, and where I need to seek Him and work for his Glory!
I joined the She Reads Truth community in Proverbs and can I say what a blessing it was! Ironically, in my independent Bible study, I read through the book of Galatians a few weeks ago. I'm so excited to read it again and participate with you all!
My thoughts on this passage:
Paul tells us how important it is to make sure we are following the true Gospel and how important it is for us not to get led in the wrong direction by false teachings. This tells me it is crucial that I spend time reading my Bible and asking God for guidance so that I know His Word, His Way, and His Will.
Paul also tells us how we are not to seek man's approval, but rather, God's. As individuals, most of us want to feel approved of by our spouses, children, families, friends, employers, etc. Do we always please God in striving to please these? I'd say we don't. I want to live my life striving to please God because with His approval, nothing else matters. And with His approval, most if not all of these other people, will approve of us, too.
I’m so excited by what the Lord is going to reveal to me with this plan…
I’m so excited to start this!! I think that no matwr how strong our faith is, we always need this reminder.
I’ve realized that I’m always trying to please others and I tend to forget that God is the ony one I need to impress. I need to make sure my life is lined up with the Word of God! I want to work hard to not be led astray by my peers.
God bless and God be with you all as we remind ourselves together! :)
What amazing words powerful and truth the lord almighty is so beauitful and loveing and prayers to all thses women may the lord fill you will abundant wisdom
So glad I found this! I’m looking forward to the journey.
I find it so hard not to look for praise and affirmation from those around me. Lord, I want your affirmation to be enough. Will you increase my faith and help me to honour you more? Thank you for the good, good news and the freedom it brings when we truly accept it.
See you tomorrow ladies! Blessings x
God is so good! I struggle with reading my bible so I have been trying to dive into reading plans! This reading plan is exactly what I need in my life right now..it’s so encouraging to see all of u ladies on here reading and seeking truth in the word of God! I love this!!!
Sometimes it’s easy to get caught up and this is why we must all take up our cross daily and follow Christ and crucify our flesh. Christ is Love n this is something I’m learning:-) follow him and live to please God, not man!!! Be blessed ladies!
I’m glad i’m taking time out for my Lord and saviour. Sometimes things feel so overwhelming and artificial it makes it hard to keep going. This book is to teach us that love is there when all else around you is failing . Its best to be one for God. Not ourselves and not others. Amen.
I’d just completed another reading plan a couple of days ago, and prayed for God to lead my spirit to my next plan…to something that speaks to me. The title of this plan grabbed me, but when I read the summary of it, I had to smile. A friend in Christ was just telling me about trying to “make my own rules” and “doing what’s pleasing to man”. LOL My God is good. :)
Thank you Lord for this day and let us be glad in it. I agree with this 100%. Jesus said who ever seek they should find, who ever knocks the door will be open. When we accept Jesus as our personal savior. Jesus will come right into our life. We accept Jesus into our lives because we see salvation in Him for he died in the cross for our sin. He loved us first and He is our creator. We now want to live a new life with Him. Now, Jesus accept us as we are and so once we accepted Him into our life, the holy spirit will start living in us and the holy spirit will be the One changing us. I believe a lot of people now a day wants to do the holy spirit job and is not up to us to do that. Only God knows the perfect, acceptable will he has for each and everyone one of us. Whenever you feel alone just remember you are not. The Holy Spirit is right there with us teaching us what is right and wrong, what is acceptable and not acceptable and to comfort us in time of need. Remember God is always there!
I've just jumped into this reading plan. Liking it already. Already pricked by the questions you asked. I HAVE believed lies that have led me away from the Grace of God. I'm letting go of those lies.
What is it about us as women that drives us to please others? Husbands, boyfriends, co-workers, children and even our closest friends. Maybe this is an individual struggle that I have but I have always striven to make everyone else happy and neglected the things I want and even desperately need. Now as I have started a new life after divorce I keep searching to learn how to stop disregarding my truths in order to fulfill the pleasures of others. I recently ended a relationship because the demands flew directly in the face of my moral beliefs and every day I fear that I have caused more hurt than its worth. That can’t be though! What’s more important than clinging to core beliefs? What’s greater than putting God first? Nothing. So why do I still feel this way? How can I overcome this fear of being a bad thoughtless person while working what I know is God’s will?
for me aiming to please other and not God practically means I end up saying yes to everyone, trying to help and sort out stuff for everyone…
living for others and not God can be the ultimate bondage and as women it can be easy to fall into the trap of people pleasing as a way to feel useful, wanted and needed.
God free me from the need to please anyone, or seek worth or validation from anyone.
I am worthy because you counted me worthy to die for.
Loving this plan #shereadstruth ladies you really are a blessing :)
Reading Galatians made me realize… Don’t try to please others. Only please God when u please man you aren’t a follower (slave) of Christ!
I read Galatians 1:1-10 and I am speechless. Often I tend to forget where my help comes from and to put my focus on Him. Unfortunately I am sometimes misled, and begin to try to please men. Oh how amazing God is, that he gave His only begotten son to die for us. I am more than precious in His sight and should know that I have been bought with the blood of Jesus the pleasure and perfect will of God.
Hello everyone, I stumbled upon this plan a few minutes ago. I thank God. I’m praying that he renews and restores my heart back to Him and remove all the bad in me. God bless you all
As people, and especially as Christians, we become addicted to external validation. We get caught up in what everyone else thinks instead of just knowing that all we should be doing is pleasing the Father, and then He’ll do the rest.
I totally agree with you. I tend to become addicted to external validation from a particular person in my family and I know that I need to pray for God's strength to let it go. Thank you for sharing.
I think it is so easy for us to pervert the Gospel into what we want it to say, mean, or be. We take the parts that we can handle and the parts that make us feel good and leave the rest. As a follower of Christ I need to accept the whole truth and stop defending my sinful nature and ways.
Once we stop hiding and defending we can see God’s mercy and grace.
Paul is pretty harsh at the beginning of this letter. Calling us out for listening to those who aren’t helping us grow in Christ but rather are helping us flounder. I’m glad he is telling it like it is… We as christian need people who are going to come in and tell us to stop being ignorant. How can we spread the good news if we don’t even know what the real news is? God is good for not always babying us but being real with us.
For a task oriented, leaning legalistic person like me, I'm so thankful that grace is enough! I would kill myself trying to be and do everything perfect. That is bondage, not freedom!
Is there a person, thought or belief that’s keeping me from the truth? How bout the belief that I have to have everyone else’s approval when God’s is all that really matters… It’s crippling… It’s a deep rooted codependency that comes from this place in my soul that still yearns for my mothers approval because I rarely get it, mostly it comes with conditions and it tears my heart to pieces and controls my life! Enough! I don’t want her lies to control me anymore… I can’t make decisions based on her approval I have to get on with my life based on pleasing God… So much easier said than done because I love her so much and I just want a Mom like it seems I see that everyone else has… It’s a hurt I really need to let Him heal so I can move on but I feel like as long as she’s still alive, the hurt will always be there along with the hope that she will change or let God change her… And then comes the crushing disappointment when yet again she hurts me… Not sure how to break that cycle– it seems like its always gonna hurt and there are days I can’t see doing this for the rest of my life…
Wow talk about venting…
This can be true of some westernised congregations today. They tend to emphasize the need to “entertain” people into their fellowships rather than let the power of the good news (Gospel) work. As soon as the gospel of truth is preached they lose a portion of their congregation because the Truth hurts to some degree. Whatever happened to true discipleship. We all have to be careful we are not deceived by the enemy’s desire to entertain rather than be transformed by the Truth.
V. 6-7: I hate this. I know people close to me who are like this, and I'm totally guilty of having been that person. It's far too easy to become that person.
V. 10: Is it OBVIOUS that I'm not trying to win the approval of people? Is it possible to win the approval of God while desiring the approval of people? I may think that I'm not trying to win the approval of people, I may say that I'm not, but is that something that's even possible to turn off in a human being? Wanting the approval of others?
BIG QUESTIONS. :)
I'm new to the community and feel very blessed to have this opportunity to learn and be closer to God. I have been following my daily plans for a little while now, they have been such an inspiration in my life. I would consider myself very guilty of putting my work and play before my relationship with God. Since I've developed my reading plan, I have discovered that there is nothing greater or more important than the love I have for God. I have learned to be still and give time to God! Now I feel that I have disconnected myself from the busy life, craziness of the world, and the frustrations of broken relationships. I know that God is love… And only he/she can ease my pain. I plan to continue reading and seeking as much information as I can in order to please our Lord God. I am so excited about gaining a better understanding of the gospels :)
Im so excited to see how awesomely this ministry is being blessed! God can use anything to bring his people together :). Looking forward to studying Galatians with all of you ladies!
I'm amazed how one little act of justification on my part can open me up to the next lie. Thank you Lord for your grace to see this before it gets to be a big problem.
The passage that stood out for me was about being a 'man-pleaser'–if my goal is to be pleasing to God, it cannot also be to please 'man' (or woman), no matter how 'good' the item is that I want to do. I've had to choose in my life, and it has been diffcult at times because the enemy of our soul wants us to be enslaved to pleasing others, but standing in His grace–'seeking first His kingdom' has proven to be a life-liberating, joy-unspeakable, abundant-relationship with the most awesome person I know–Jesus.
This passage reminds me of our need to approach God based on what He has done for us–not what we or others have said was necessary in life. In order to see what He has done, I consider where I've been (where we've all been): dead in my sin, vile, repulsive to God, wicked to the core, capable of murder, strife. Now I consider where I am–covered by His blood, washed white as snow, redeemed, purified, adopted, chosen, blessed…I'm getting excited! The list goes on! Isn't His grace amazing! So now I'm standing, a new creature before Him, reminding myself to see myself through His eyes, as He sees me through what Christ has done for me.
This is going to be such a wonderful study! I’m asking God to open my eyes to where I get distracted or misled. Knowing the Word is the best defense against being swayed or distracted. When it’s on our hearts it begins to become us! :)
I wanted to respond to an earlier comment from Hannah (don’t know exactly how to reply because I’m new to the app). Regarding making people uncomfortable… I agree that we are not to accept the sin of people’s lives as though it is ok. But we are to love them in spite of it as Jesus did for us. But Jesus’ goal was not to make people uncomfortable. The Holy Spirit convicted and sometimes even offended those around Jesus because he was loving but also righteous and truthful. But I think that is the job of the Holy Spirit, not us. As we focus on living righteously and loving, the Spirit will touch people and they may react out of discomfort, defense etc. But our goal should not be to actually make people uncomfortable. Hope that makes sense. But I agree that our life, by default, will do that because people begin to see the lacking in their own life. We are called to focus on loving in truth as Jesus did, and the Spirit will take care of the rest, whether people respond uncomfortably, apathetically, or with interest.
Verse 10 seems to have had the same effect of you ladies as it did me!
I've found that when I'm constantly trying to please people and especially in the past, trying to please those who have hurt me, I end up feeling empty and worthless. When I lean on Christ, and seek only God and His promises, I feel ALIVE.
I’m so excited for this! As a youth leader, I feel the burden to speak truthfully to my students. I strive to present them with the Gospel and to teach them to trust what the Bible says. Not what they hear on tv, Internet, radio or from their friends. It is so easy, even for me, to get caught up in the world around us and to allow it to be our influencer. Praying for all of the ladies through this study! May we only be influenced by God’s truth.
I really needed to hear verse 10! I’m a complete people pleaser and it can really get the best of me; I need to let Christ have the very best of me first, and not try to win the approval of others. Ahhh.
I am so glad we are doing Galatians! What stood out most to me in this reading was Verse 10 "are we trying to win the approval of men or of God…" I have been struggling with this a lot, especially when it comes to vocation and listening to what God is calling me to do rather than what men aka "the world" see as the right path; because in the end the mission is to show others the gospel right? To love like Jesus; everything else in this world stays and God is the only thing that last forever.
Greetings to you all in the name of Jesus.Have also just joined this site,its truly wonderful,I’m enjoying reading the reading plan Galations.Its true we need a reminder not to be mislead by false teachings&stand in the gospel truth of the Lord.I’m truly blessed.
It's always interesting when something you've believed your whole life- something you even thought was a "Christian" concept- is completely reversed by the true Word of God. I always thought that if I was living the "right" way or making the "right" decisions that everybody would agree with me and support me. I think in the church- at least in my own church experience- women are expected to make everyone else happy at almost any cost, including their own psychological health. I'm almost 25 years old now, and I can tell you that is SO not true. I've had to work really hard with my therapist to understand and accept the idea that not everyone will love me or what I'm doing or support my ideas. But if I submit to the Lord, tell Him I want His way and surrender all to Him, He is pleased and that's all that matters! I have lost sleep and time obsessing over pleasing everybody. I have missed out on potentially great friendships because I overanalyzed a conversation to death. I'm definitely not "cured", but for now I'm trying to please God and let Him manage my reputation.
I loved what you shared. I keep forgetting that even when I'm at church it's a "jungle" and that I don't have to do what other people say. That other people are not automatically right and they do not know what is best for me and I don't need their permission or approval — you can see why I need Galations so much!
Hi everyone,I greet you all in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ Amen.Have also just joined this site&i’m truly loving reading plan Galations.We truly need a reminder to always stand in the gospel truth,because many are truly being led away with by false teachings nowadays.God bless.
I am new to the She Reads Truth Community, and I thank God for stumbling upon this site. I have been struggling with spending time reading the word and now with the help of this community I know that I can stay focus on studying the word of God. Pray for me, so that the Holy Spirit will direct us as we read and sudy together.
Thank you for sharing…I am in the same boat! I hope that you will keep me in your thoughts and prayers as we start this new study. This is my first and I hope that I can just open my heart and let the Lord work within me.
Live that in Paul’s greetings, grace preceded peace. : )
Its so easy for me to abandon the beautiful truth of the gospel for a checklist. May my heart be stirred anew as I learn more about Him and fall deeper in love with Him in this new season of my life!!
Two things strike me. First, how common it is for us to desert Christ and our belief in the true gospel. Second, this makes me consider what I am teaching my children. Am I focusing on changing their hearts or their behaviors? "For am I now seeking the favor of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men?" vs.10. I can ask those questions of myself.
I'm new to the She Reads Truth community as well, but I am so excited to see how God is going to speak to all of our hearts. This is definitely something I needed in my life right now, and I'm so excited to see how the Lord will grow our faith on this walk with Him.
I think sometimes I fall into a trap of thinking Jesus bore the Cross begrudgingly– as we would were we in His place. Today's reading was such a welcome reminder that God planned this for His pleasure, and that Christ died for God's pleasure in His Creation. If God takes such pleasure in me, surely His work in me and with me isn't finished, and I am not on my own!
I'm new to the She Reads Truth community and I've enjoyed my first reading so far. A few thoughts I highlighted and found to be helpful were: "We're easily misled, we love adding rules, and we forget what makes a true disciple so quickly." I'm excited about where God's word will take me in life.
This is my first bible study and I have to say that it is exactly what I needed to here! Growing up as a mindful, rule-following Catholic and in recent years trying to figure out where my true faith lies, I've learned that I get very caught up in trying to follow the rules in order to please others, rather than following what God places in my heart. Especially important as I prepare to marry my best friend and a bible-reading Christian!
I am just jumping on board to this reading plan. I opened up FB and it was the most recent post and I was just sitting down to spend some time in God’s word and here I am. I know I fall into the snare of horizontal living and worrying about what others think and start to please those that live on the horizontal level instead of living vertical and keeping my focus on our heavenly father. We just started a new series at our church this weekend “One Thing” and I walked away from worship Saturday night realizing how multi tasking (which I do a lot !) takes my focus off of Him, my priorities become messed up and that leads me to a messed up attitude. If I am not spending daily time in His word I am quickly focusing on what others think and then I start to DO things instead of simply spending one on one time with God. The final point in our weekend message was, doing things for God is a result of, not a replacement for, spending time with God. I must take the time daily to be His hands and feet.
Nice! :))
Hello, all! I'm really excited about discovering this study. I've been looking for something just like this.
Anyway, I really needed to hear verse 10. I've been struggling for awhile with presenting a certain face of my Christianity when I'm around my co-workers, most of whom are intellectuals who were raised as Christians, but have left the faith. I don't want them to think that I'm "stupid" (or something), so I tend to downplay my faith. I know it sounds ridiculous, but I really need them to know that it's possible to be intelligent AND a believer. But I can't do that at the expense of pleasing Christ to please them. SO! Onward and upward, as they say (who are they? I always wonder. ;) )
I pray you will be able to work through this. I struggle with prayer at work during lunch time I never have enough courage to ask my coworkers to join in when I pray. I understand where you're coming from.
I love the way he points out that if he were all about pleasing men, he wouldn't be a bondservant of Christ. I think that is so true. When we seek to be a servant of Christ, we're going to not be pleasing to men, whether in the church or out of the church. But that is not the point, we were saved by grace for his good pleasure and his will!
I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you by the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel– (Galatians 1:6 NIV84)
It’s simple human nature to get distracted and pulled away by so many other things, or we get too lazy or too comfortable in our relationship.
I’m so grateful for his grace and mercy everyday that is new for me, but I’m also grateful that it’s mixed with the truth of my own sin so I can be made new
For anyone who reads this, I would so appreciate some prayer in this area. I've been home from the mission field for almost 8 months looking for a job, thinking that was the logical thing to do. Lately, my heart has been stirred again that my PASSION is missions, taking the gospel to the world by going out in the world. God has been opening some doors in that direction, but I'm scared because it doesn't make any sense to man for me raise support AGAIN and go out AGAIN. But it makes sense for the Kingdom.
I need confidence to be "nor from man nor through man, but from Jesus Christ and God the Father who raised him from the dead"!
Praying for you! I know (on a very small scale) how daunting it can be to ask people to support you on the mission field. If God is leading you to go back out there, He'll provide for you!
Thank you so much, Erica! Do you have a blog? I'd love to check it out!
I have a blog and I also contribute to a blog of four women called "Small, Still Voices". Would love to be in community with you!
http://smallstillvoices.wordpress.com/
:)
No, I don't have a blog. :(
I'm going to have to learn how to use Wordpress soon as part of my job, so I made a personal account to try to learn how it works, but I haven't really done anything with it besides using it to comment here.
I can’t help but wonder what would happen if you didn’t follow God’s call? I’ve done many mission trips and some longer term ministry where I had to raise support. It doesn’t make sense in the world’s eyes but like the devo today asks “Are we trying to please God or man?” if God has called you to something then do it with all your heart. Don’t fear the finances. God’s kingdom is filled with people who want to give and send those who are called. I will be praying that the Lord clearly gives you direction in where HE wants you to go and that the world will not sway you otherwise!! Blessings on this journey
Erica, well, if you ever do get one, let me know :) Thanks again for being a blessing!
My first time commenting, but I’ve been along for the ride, and I have been blessed! Thanls to the team for creating this forum and for the growth it has had so far.
Now on to Galatians! I think I’m going to love this study, very relevant to our time.
I absolutely love Paul's letters, yet Galatians always intimidated me for whatever reason. Needless to say, I'm super stoked to start this plan!!!
Today's reading was a bit of a spiritual slap in the face for me-I'm really good at getting caught up in following rules. As I was reading, I was reminded of some notes I took at an event about 6 years ago (had to be a God thing): True Christianity isn't about following rules; it's about knowing and following Christ. Even though we are called to live a life that's set apart from the rest of the world, I know it's really easy for me to take it to an extreme into the realm of legalism. I feel like life with Christ is about finding a balance of some sorts, and I've always struggled with balance in life in general. Can't wait to keep going through this wonderful book with you amazing ladies!!! (:
Paul’s reminder is so refreshing! With the truth of Jesus I feel his grace and peace which brings a feeling of refreshing freedom: like floating on my back in the lake! Refreshing peace is a complicated world!!
Hi everyone im so glad to read this passage this morning. Im currently experiencing Dryness, its so hard to move on or get out from the pit. Few mos ago my church was exposed and its leader, its so hard to unlearn things that ive learn from the church, its so heartbreaking! As if ive been deprived of my freedom,… My family and i went in the church for a long time, and i started joining in the ministry at an early age.. Ive missed a lot of opportunities and now as if everything is coming bak… But im so much thankful to God coz he Unveil my eyes to experience more of His abounding grace rather than his wrath… God bless us all! Kno the truth.
Love Galations. Am excited to read this. I crave truth and I want to love the way Jesus loves.
But I know uncomfortable and I believe that’s how change comes. By not running from that but instead pressing into it so we can recognize we need change. God loves us as we are but too much to leave us that way. That’s how I want to love also and that is what I want to convey to others.
We just started Galatians at church and my pastor preached on 1:1-5 yesterday morning! I'm so excited :) Such a sweet and straight forward reminder of how GOOD God is! Forever and ever. Amen!!!
HE is enough! I loved reading this passage… reminded me that NOTHING else matters but God. Jesus died so that we can be free. I need to keep remembering that sacrifice so I don't get tempted by the false gods that are all around (i.e. physical beauty, fitness, popularity, the media…etc, etc, etc). God is all I need and more, and I am so thankful for that!
So excited for the new plan! Way to go ladies, thank you for all your hard work creating this new one.
Seeking connection with my God and truly desiring that innermost feeling of His presence. I have been praying and reading but not feeling lately, which tells me I am not doing something right! I feel myself putting more pressure on my husband and feeling neglected even though I know I’m not! Makes me wonder if i haven’t slipped into this “pleasing” attitude over the past couple of weeks…i know i feel a LOT of self pity which is horrible because i am SO blessed!! I welcome any prayers that anyone feels led to offer. I know something is wrong but not really sure what else to do to seek answers for it :( Praying for Gods love and presence for each of you today!
"Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for Your LOVE for us. Praise be to Your holy Name! We are able to KNOW You through Your written word. Please reveal to Kelly what is blocking her spiritual awareness of Your presence in her life. Bless her – and I ask You to grant her her deep desire to FEEL Your presence in her innermost being. Your word states, in Psalms 37:4 –> 'Delight yourself in the LORD, and He shall give you the desires of your heart.' Thank You for this promise!"
Dear Kelly, I've come to realize that feelings are the absolute opposite of the truth. We ladies can pick out a lie pretty quickly … we're a discerning lot by nature. But, I believe where we fall is in giving room for and listening to our feelings. God created us as women and gave us a unique tenderness which the devil sometimes uses to cripple us. "Lord, I come to you on behalf of my sister, Kelly. I pray that You will remind her of the promises You've made her in Your Word when feelings begin to creep in and steal Your glory from her life. I pray that she will recognize the feelings that are contrary to Your truth as temptations from the evil one. Lord, I also pray for Kelly to cling to the truth of the cross and all it represents … to recognize that truth isn't always accompanied by a feeling but rather a deep-seeded knowing and faith that You are who You say You are and You will do what You've promised You will do. In Jesus' Name I pray, Amen"
Delivered from this evil age, that is something to praise God about!
I kinda feel the opposite of Tracy and think sometimes the Church is only showing a god of love. I always wonder if we are trying to trick people into believing. “oh come to church, we accept you.” but realistically we can love them (nonbelievers) but we can’t accept their ways sometimes. Once you become a Christian to have to ‘die to your old self’
I guess this sounds kinda harsh, but I struggle with wanting to be a Christian that makes people feel accepted. But that’s not the case.
We need to make people feel uncomfortable and question why we act the way we do. At the same time we also have to create a presence that welcome those comments.
I am really excited about this because I recently joined a moms group where there are few Christians. I want to make sure that I am representing Christ appropriately.
Thank you all. Thus is a community that I am blessed greatly by!
I think we are called to address our own sin. When we do that, when we repent and bring it to God, and he does an amazing work in our lives by his grace—that is when we represent Christ appropriately. When we get grace for our sins, that are no better or worse than anyone's, we are able to have and see others with grace, too, and love them. God handles the conviction part.
Hannah, it is not our job to make people feel uncomfortable with their behavior. The Holy Spirit will convict.. We are to model Christ and His love. People will see that much more than our trying to convince them their actions are not "christian." We all fall short, and I pray God continues to show me how to love His people however they (we) act.
My thought (and I am very new to Christ so bear with me) is that we will follow those rules because of our love for Jesus and our gratitude for God's grace. We don't need to feel uncomfortable in order to let go of worldly ways, we need that love and support. Personally, I have tried everything to let go of anger and lust and greed and anxiety, all in vain until I walked into a loving accepting church and received that gift that I didn't deserve. All along, I knew I was wrong and I ALWAYS felt uncomfortable. That did not save me. Jesus saved me, and freed me from those ways through love.
Hannah is absolutely right. Yes it is the Holy Spirit that convicts but that doesnt relieve us of our responsibility to share. It is also GOD who saves and the bible says The Gospel is the power of God unto salvation (Romans 1:26), so it is not us being accepting of their sins that will bring them to Christ. Thats like us compromising the Gospel just to win souls as if its our job to wrought repentance in people. The bible refers to itself as a double-edged sword that cuts bones and marrow, that doesnot sound soothing at all does it. If people are blind in sin, as 1 corinthians 1 says, our acceptance of their sins isnt what will make them come to salvation but only the truth shall set them free. I agree we must share the truth in love. I must state though that this worlds definition of love is different from the bible's. Love does not rejoice in iniquity. Loving sum1 to this world is the exact opposite, it is making people feel good abt themselves no matter what they do. Thats not love, that leads people to hell cos they will never change. The message of tge Gospel which we're called to share requires repentance, how can we tell people to repent if theyre nit made aware that something is radically wrong with them. Unfortunely as much as our lives can testify to ppl, we are imperfect and our lives are not sufficient testimonies, plus they lack thr power required to break a hardened heart. God has that power thru the Gospel.
This is so awesome! I had to leave a comment that I am so excited about where God is taking this ministry!!!! God bless!
v4-5: What Christ did in the past, and what He is doing in the present gives us hope for what is in the future!
vv6-7: We must learn to articulate the true Gospel so that we do not distort it for others and so that others do not distort it in our own minds.
This is so true alot of churchs push people away because they get caught up in rules instead of love. Im glad my faith and love is strong. Continue to seek him daily an you will over come amything.
This true we get caught up in religious politics and it seems sometimes the basic spiritual needs of the church are being overlooked. Not only in the church but in the community. I want a true relationship with Christ. Not just religion. Too many people are chasing "whats poppin'" caught in what churches offer on the surface. Im still chasing the glory of God and choose to live a life of faith and love…
oh wow! This movement is sooooo moving forward! To God be all glory and honor!!!
Father, I continue to pray for this community. Continue to bind us with your unending love that is new every morning and doesn't keep a record of wrong. Thank you for your grace and the truth that you reveal to us while we read your words everyday. Continue to make us women of wisdom. I pray that others will be blessed with our life and our online fellowship. Help us to do all these things for your glory and not to just please the people around us. We offer to you our hearts!!!! Amen
Hi Hannah~Have missed you on here! I miss my screen savers/lock screens!!!!!!!! Your prayer is so wonderful ….praying a blessing on everyone. Have a wonderful day!!! ::))
Awhhhh. Nancy! So happy to know I'm missed. :) I havent been making because I am not getting any request but maybe I'll just start making one for the verses I like and share it to the community! You are awesome Nancy!!!! Have a great day too!
I love that you talk about community. I feel like you don't really notice how much community is needed until you've been away from a good group of people for awhile. Going back to that community is a breath of fresh air.
Thank you Lord for the amazing ministry that SheReadsTruth provides!!! I am currently working on the Surrendering bible study through YouVerse as well and it's eye opening how well the two fit together this morning. I pray Lord that You open my heart to Your word each and everyday. I pray Lord that You make a "prayer warrior", that You remind me every moment of everyday that I am in need of Your contiuous communication and fellowship. I pray above all Lord that I can be a pleaser of You and You alone, NOT of men. Lord help me to learn each and every day from Your Truths and extend those Truths to those around me. Let Your light shine through me so that others may know You!!! Father, show me Your will for my life so I may begin the works You have planned for my life. Above all Lord, let me be a pleaser NOT of men, but let my hands, mouth, and heart be put to use in a manner ONLY PLEASING TO YOU!!!!!!
im glad that there are other people that feel the way way i do! i take this as my opportunity to be more diligeant in my studies and pray u my sisters got my back and lets keep one another encouraged!!!
This has been popping up in a few places in my life. In The Sermon on the Mount, Jesus hands out a bunch of seemingly impossible standards (anger is murder, lust is adultery, etc.) and then says that unless your righteousness is better than the righteousness of the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees, you will never enter the Kingdom of Heaven! (Matthew 5:20)
But the good news is, that's only the case without Jesus. To me, it's like he's saying, "Okay, you want to do it the without me? Want to do it the hard way? Fine. Here are the standards you have to meet." (And of course nobody ever could.)
Or we can do it the way Jesus intended, and just go in through him, with all our flaws and imperfections.
(I hope that makes sense–my brain hasn't really started for the day yet!)
I feel like I have also been learning this more and more in the last year also. The Bible is so often twisted into something that it is not…a list of rules. That is not at all what the Bible says! Those high stakes are there to show us that we cannot meet the high standards and that we cannot save ourselves.
What a beautiful insight. I cannot tell you how many times I have beat myself up over Matthew 5. Isn't it interesting how sins are passed generationally? The legalism that spawned way back with the Galatians is still prevalent today. I mean, we are taught scripture with man's interpretation and suddenly "mans" insight becomes our own. This can be an amazing and highly beneficial cycle if we are constantly saturating ourselves in Jesus and continually checking for that alignment with Christ. The perpetual, downward cycle begins exactly the way it did with the Jewish Christians however many years ago…we begin teaching out of our own spirit, instead of Jesus'.
So…with that said, thank you for your words of wisdom :) It is so completely refreshing when the core of scripture is revealed to you, as it has been for me this morning. Be blessed, my sister in Christ. Your obedience and wisdom has touched my soul.
Our pastor suggested this morning that we should all read galatians this week. When I saw this reading plan on youversion, out seemed like destiny.