Knowing Christ

Open Your Bible

Philippians 3:1-11, Proverbs 8:22-36, 1 Peter 2:1-10

When my husband was in business school, he had to develop an “elevator pitch” as part of his job search. An elevator pitch is a fairly standard business practice with the goal of selling something (a business idea, a person for a job, or a product) in the amount of time it takes you to ride an elevator with someone. For my husband and his fellow students, the idea was simple. At career fairs with large companies who hired the best and brightest from top business schools, you need to make yourself stand out in thirty seconds or less: say who you are, why you are different, and why you can bring unique value to the company.

In the first eleven verses of Philippians 3, Paul offered a succinct and beautiful elevator pitch on his own gospel transformation. He laid it all out, right there: who he was before Christ, who he was after, and why it mattered.

So who was Paul? He was the Hebrew born of Hebrews, who said of himself, “If anyone else thinks he has grounds for confidence in the flesh, I have more” (Philippians 3:4). Paul, a Pharisee whose life mission was to persecute and kill Christians, had all the right answers. He followed the law, which he knew backward and forward and to the letter.

But when confronted firsthand and face to face with the truth of who Jesus really is, Paul declared, “Everything that was a gain to me, I have considered to be a loss because of Christ” (v.7). Despite the perfect resumé, the right pedigree, the unflappable credentials—Paul had nothing to offer before God. What a radical gospel transformation Paul experienced! It’s incredible, his confidence in the gift of grace that Christ offers to us.

I often feel so very lost in the darkness of my own sin. I know I have nothing to offer, despite my best efforts. But this confidence Paul describes? I don’t always believe it is available to me too. My brain and its twisted paths of anxiety, fear, too many words, and not enough faith often lead me down the road of relying on my own flesh. I reason: I’m not good enough for God, but if I work harder, read my Bible more, pray more, be nicer to people, maybe then I’ll become more like Christ.

But here, in his eleven-verse elevator pitch for the gospel, Paul reminds me again that those thoughts are not true. My righteousness cannot come from my own flesh or from the law, but only through faith in Christ (vv.9–10). Jeremiah 9:23–24 echoes the same promise.

The wise person should not boast in his wisdom;
the strong should not boast in his strength;
the wealthy should not boast in his wealth.
But the one who boasts should boast in this:
that he understands and knows me—
that I am the LORD.

He is the Lord, mighty to save and full of abounding grace. What He requires from us is a desire “to know Him and the power of His resurrection” (Philippians 3:10), a power that is available to all who receive the gospel of grace. May we remember and always be thankful for the privilege of being able to stand on the merit of Christ alone.

(97) Comments
[x]

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

97 thoughts on "Knowing Christ"

  1. brenna dick says:

    God’s grace is sufficient
    WHAT A BEAUTIFUL REMINDER

  2. Shelby Henriksen says:

    This really encouraged me today. ♥️

  3. Julia C says:

    Praying the words of Hosea 6:3 (ESV) today ❤️

    Let us know;
    let us press on to know the Lord;
    his going out is sure as the dawn;
    he will come to us as the showers, as the spring rains that water the earth.”

  4. Mercy says:

    Knowing Christ- what a privilege, what a cost. The deeper we know Him and the deeper we be transformed, the more dead layers are left behind, and in those dead layers there might include certain relationships, locations, certain desires, shedding of wrong identities, actions, behaviors, goals and ambitions. In order to receive the high life, we must give up the low life (Joyce Meyer, I love how she put it, do we recognize what’s high or low?). There are two kingdoms. Each kingdom demands your loyalty and worship. One Kingdom will lead you to the King of all kings, and the other will set you up as a king. The Big Kingdom will work to dethrone you and decimate your little kingdom of one. While the little kingdom seduces you with promises that won’t deliver. The Big Kingdom is glorious in every perspective, but it doesn’t always look that way to you. The little kingdom is deceptive and dark, but at some point it appears to you as beautiful and life giving (a convicting reflection from a devotional of Paul Tripp that I wrote down a while back and thought I would share). So, you either pray that God’s Kingdom will come and His Will be done, or your way and your will, will surely win the day. Paul showed us the cost he paid to know Jesus, to suffer loss of all things, this hurts really deeply (I lost my family and my friends when growing deeper in Christ, enduring taunting, rejection, and abandonment), but that’s what the Big Kingdom does. But nonetheless, may His will be done, and the glory shall be revealed, all creations groan, in the misery, chaos, disorder, tension of the current suffering and the future glory, whereby the children of God will be revealed. That’s where our hope lies, amidst deep agonies, the deep pains of childbirth. Joining you in prayers dear shes (ALEIDA, LINDA, SEARCHING and other requests). Be blessed dear sisters.

    1. Cee Gee says:

      ❤ Our Living Hope – another favorite song of mine your comment reminded me of.

      1. Mercy says:

        You are the worship song encyclopedia ❤️❤️❤️:)

        1. Cee Gee says:

          ❤ I am OLD ENOUGH to be!!! lol

  5. Gwineth52 says:

    Hello Shes
    What I hear the apostle Paul & the prophet Jeremiah saying: “Don’t think you are all this & that in what you are ‘upholding’”: sayings, habits, busy-ness; you name it. If it’s not about the knowledge of & in the spirit of the One Truth, it amounts to nothing. What we do – doesn’t do it! For me this is where deep calm & quiet prayer are called for. An emptying, in His presence. But; my, my, does it take practice & persistence. Fill up on faith, not fiction. So help me God!

  6. MARTHA HIX says:

    Have thine own way Lord!
    I’m so grateful for His love, patience, wisdom, direction, peace, presence, forgiveness. Yielding to our Father’s love.
    Praying for your requests. ❤️

    My hope
    My hope is built on nothing less
    Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness
    I dare not trust the sweetest frame
    But wholly lean on Jesus’ name
    On Christ the solid rock I stand
    All other ground is sinking sand
    All other ground is sinking sand
    When darkness
    When darkness veils His lovely face
    I’ll rest on His unchanging grace
    In every high and stormy day
    My anchor holds within the veil
    On Christ the solid rock I stand
    All other ground is sinking sand
    All other ground is sinking sand
    And His oath
    His oath, His covenant, His blood
    Support me in the whelming flood
    When all around my soul gives way
    He then is all my hope and stay
    On Christ the solid rock I stand
    All other ground is sinking sand
    All other ground is sinking sand
    Let’s just revisit and visualise it
    Just think about what that is gonna look like
    When we hear that trunpet sound
    When He shall come
    When He shall come with trumpet sound
    Oh, may I then in Him be found
    Dressed in His righteousness alone
    Faultless to stand before the throne
    On Christ the solid rock I stand
    All other ground is sinking sand
    All other ground is sinking sand
    Source: Musixmatch

    1. Cee Gee says:

      Still praying for your decision, Martha. ❤

  7. Michaela Hawkins says:

    Our worth, our confidence, or strength relies on our faith in Christ! That’s it!

  8. Cindy Hanna says:

    Paul’s words on where we place our confidence vs. where we should place them stood out to me. Every thought, feeling, or activity we engage belongs to Christ. Period. My confidence does not lie in what virtue signals I project, what side of the political aisle I stand in, or even how wise or knowledgeable I am. All that is nothing compared to walking as closely to Christ and emulate the love he had for us to others. Good reminder. Blessings on your day fellow SHE’s.

    1. Tami says:

      Great summary! Thank you and Amen!

    2. Gwineth52 says:

      Yes! Yes! You said it, Cindy!

  9. Kris says:

    I am thankful I don’t have to be “qualified” by certain acts, or good works, or my own initiatives but only that I know God and He knows me. The rest will follow and be born out of knowing Him and He knowing me. There are days/weeks/month/years when I am energetic and full of ambition to “do the works of the Lord”, but there are also seasons when I’m weary and don’t do much at all. But God is fully accepting of me in either season. Just knowing Him and He knowing me, spending time with Him in the quiet of the day – that’s all that’s required, just sit with Him and be with Him. I’m in that season now where I just need to be with Him. I don’t need to talk, I don’t need to know everything, I don’t have to “do” stuff… Just be

    1. R says:

      Thanks so much for your comment Kris ! As one who is also in a season of just
      “being”before the Lord
      I am beginning to
      understand that He is
      more than willing to
      meet me where I am and
      that in His presence
      I can discard the
      postures,titles and
      any gains I thought I had for the
      immeasurable value of
      knowing Him!!!

    2. Gwineth52 says:

      WOW! My sister Shes, like you Kris, are speaking for many of us, ME, this morning!
      Amen & Amen

    3. Mercy says:

      Me too, in the season of “just be” :), all eyes and all ears to Him of what’s next.

      1. Margaret W. says:

        You have to *be* before you can *do*, because nothing we do is worth anything without Christ. He gives us the privilege of participating in his work because he loves us, not because he needs us.

    4. Christy K says:

      Thank you for sharing this. I’m in the same season, and this is such a beautiful reminder.

    5. Cee Gee says:

      Yes, Kris. Be STILL and KNOW…❤

  10. Cee Gee says:

    This is from Warren Wiersbe:
    1 Peter 2:4-8
    “Believers are living stones in God’s building. Each time someone trusts Christ, another stone is quarried out of the pit of sin and cemented by grace into the building. To us the church on earth may appear to be a pile of rubble and ruins, but God sees the total structure as it grows (see Eph. 2:19–22). What a privilege we have to be a part of His church, “a dwelling place of God in the Spirit” (Eph. 2:22).
    v. 9-10
    We belong to one family of God and share the same divine nature. We are living stones in one building and priests serving in one temple. We are citizens of the same heavenly homeland. Jesus Christ is the source and center of this unity. If we center our attention and affection on Him, we will walk and work together; if we focus on ourselves, we will only cause division.”
    ~~~
    We sang a “new song” yesterday at church. It has been running through my head as I read these Scriptures:
    “I Am Not My Own” –
    Keith and Kristyn Getty
    The One who made the heavens made my heart and soul
    Before I drew a breath, I was loved and known
    I am His creation, the Maker’s masterpiece
    And all that He designs will be done in me
    My body is a temple of the Living God
    I’ll worship in this house that His blood has bought
    As I bear His image, oh, may I not profane
    The holiness I hold in this earthly frame
    I belong to the Lord, oh, I am not my own
    I belong to the Lord, I am not my own
    I will honor Him for this I know
    I belong to the Lord, I am not my own
    And if He has redeemed me, I am not my own
    The measure of my worth is His love alone
    He declares my standing, and He declares my state
    So I will know myself by the name He gave
    I belong to the Lord, oh, I am not my own
    I belong to the Lord, I am not my own
    I will honor Him for this I know
    I belong to the Lord, I am not my own
    I am not my own and now my heart is free
    O Maker come and make what You will of me
    There is nothing broken that You cannot repair
    So Lord, I’ll leave my life in Your loving care
    I know that-
    I belong to the Lord, oh, I am not my own
    I belong to the Lord, I am not my own
    I will honor Him for this I know
    I belong to the Lord, I am not my own (oh, I am not my own)
    I will honor Him for this I know
    I belong to the Lord, I am not my own.
    ~~~~
    Hugs and prayers, sisters! ❤

  11. Traci Gendron says:

    Proverbs 8:32-35 “And now, sons, listen to me;

    those who keep my ways are happy.

    33 Listen to instruction and be wise;

    don’t ignore it.

    34 Anyone who listens to me is happy,

    watching at my doors every day,

    waiting by the posts of my doorway.

    35 For the one who finds me finds life

    and obtains favor from the Lord

    I remember being so unhappy in life. And then I was invited to BSF and a new church. It changed me. I was craving God in a way that I never had before. I’m so thankful for those invitations. It makes me think who have I invited?

  12. Beth Bruner says:

    Amen!

  13. Annie says:

    Thank You, Jesus!

  14. Mari V says:

    Jeremiah 9:23-24 summed it all up for me this morning. At the end of my life time the only thing I want to be known for is that I love Jesus. That’s all. I sometimes feel like I fail SO much, or as Melanie mentions and I can relate how our brain and twisted paths of anxiety or me thinking I’m not good enough, I fail so much, I’m mean, etc.. etc…BUT GOD. I (WE) are special to HIM! We are HIS! And HE is OURS. I recall last week how I was feeling about not continuing my education and the encouragement from all you here. At the end of the day what matters is what we read in the last part of Jeremiah 9:24, “…that he understands and knows me- that I am the Lord.” Happy Monday sweet She’s!

  15. Skylar Elliott says:

    Reading about Paul makes me feel like anyone can be led to Jesus and it’s a beautiful way to view their life story

  16. Rhonda J. says:

    GM!

    The title today says it all “KNOWING Christ!” Growing up a Christian and in church from early childhood I really knew of Christ but I didn’t “know” Christ. And if you know, you know! (I’m sounding a lot like Paul already, lol) But when I heard you needed a relationship with Jesus, I couldn’t really make sense of the HOW of that in my mind since he wasn’t an actual person beside me. Yet, when I had my Paul moment, and feel to my knees and needed Him like never before, it was a big moment. Yet I quickly went back to being the sole master of my life. Still…trying to do things my way, my work, my striving…to get it right. Years later, I started reading the Bible every morning. And that is when a “relationship” started to form. Spending time with God,learning about Him and His plan for His people of Israel. Letting him feed me nutrients and milk. This is what it means to KNOW Christ. You can’t know someone you don’t spend time with, through thick and thin, through joy, through every day. I have an urgency and desire to be with him daily, hourly, minute by minute. Then he flows out of me by the fruits that he gives me. I am walking with the power of the Holy Spirit in me now. He was there but I wasn’t utilizing Him. What a waste and loss…but now my eyes are open! Thank you Jesus for removing the scales!! Have thine own way Lord in my life, do with me what you will.
    My life is yours. If I am to be healed soon or never in this life, my pain will be used to glorify you.
    My marriage will be used to glorify you. My legacy will be used to glorify you. Thank you Lord!

    1. Mari V says:

      Love you sweet girl!!!

    2. Tami says:

      As always, what a testimony Rhonda!

    3. Cathy McVey says:

      Well said Rhonda! Thank you!

    4. Gwineth52 says:

      You’re preaching this morning, Rhonda J. And it is much appreciated!

    5. Mercy says:

      “my pain will be used to glorify you” it took me a long while to come to terms with this, and I didn’t even realize. Thank you.

    6. Rhonda J. says:

      (heart) to all of you!

    7. Cee Gee says:

      ❤ Beautiful, Rhonda!

  17. Cheryl Blow says:

    Pauls reminder to rejoice in the Lord stood out to me. Why? Because we are able to live our lives set free from sin’s hold on us!

    In Christ Alone is the song that comes to mind. And I Thank God by Maverick City

    Wandering into the night
    Wanting a place to hide
    This weary soul, this bag of bones
    And I tried with all my mind
    And I just can’t win the fight
    I’m slowly drifting, oh vagabond
    And just when I ran out of road
    I met a man I didn’t know
    And he told me
    That I was not alone
    He picked me up
    He turned me around
    He placed my feet on solid ground
    I thank the Master
    I thank the Savior
    Because He healed my heart
    He changed my name
    Forever free, I’m not the same
    I thank the Master
    I thank the Savior
    I thank God
    I cannot deny what I see
    Got no choice but to believe
    My doubts are burning
    Like ashes in the wind
    So, so long to my old friends
    Burden and bitter night
    You can’t just keep them moving
    No, you ain’t welcome here
    From now ’til I walk
    The streets of gold
    I’ll sing of how You saved my soul
    This wayward son
    Has found his way back home
    He picked me up
    Turned me around
    Placed my feet on solid ground
    I thank the Master
    I thank the Savior
    Because He healed my heart
    Changed my name
    Forever free, I’m not the same
    I thank the Master
    I thank the Savior
    Oh, I thank God
    Oh, I thank God
    Oh, I thank God
    Oh, I thank God
    Hell lost another one
    I am free, I am free, I am free
    Hell lost another one
    I am free, I am free, I am free
    Hell lost another one
    I am free, I am free, yes I am free
    Hell lost another one
    I am free, I am free, I am free
    Hell lost another one
    I am free, I am free, I am free
    Hell lost another one
    I am free, I am free, I am free
    Hell lost another one
    I am free, I am free, I am free
    Hell lost another one
    I am free, I am free, I am free
    He picked me up
    He turned me around
    He placed my feet on solid ground
    I thank the Master
    I thank the Savior
    Because He healed my heart
    He changed my name
    Forever free, I’m not the same
    I thank the Master
    I thank the Savior
    I thank God
    And if He did it for me, He can do it for you
    If He did it for me, He can do it for you
    Get up, get up, get up
    Get up out of that grave
    Get up, get up, get up
    Get up out of that grave
    Get up, get up, get up
    Get up out of that grave
    Get up, get up, get up
    Get up out of that grave
    Get up, get up, get up
    Get up out of that grave
    Get up, get up, get up
    Get up out of that grave
    Get up, get up, get up
    Get up out of that grave
    Get up, get up, get up
    Get up out of that grave
    Get up, get up, get up
    Get out of that grave
    Get up, get up, get up
    Get up out of that grave
    Get up, get up, get up
    Get up out of that grave
    Get up, get up, get up
    Get up out of that grave
    If He did it for me, He can do it for you
    If He did it for me, He can do it for you
    If He did it for me, He can do it for you
    The testimony of Jesus
    Is the Spirit of Prophesy
    That means what He did for another
    He can do it again
    That means what He did for another
    He can do it again
    The testimony of Jesus
    Is the Spirit of Prophesy
    Is the Spirit of Prophesy
    Is the Spirit of Prophesy
    That means what He did for another
    He can do it again
    That means what He did for another
    He can do to us all
    Get up, get up, get up
    Get up out of that grave
    Get up, get up, get up
    Get up out of that grave
    Get up, get, get up
    Get out of that grave
    Get up, get up, get up
    Get up out of that grave
    Get up, get up, get up
    Get up out of that grave
    Get up, get up, get up
    Get up out of that grave
    Get up, get up, get up
    Get up out of that grave
    Get up, get up, get up
    Get up out of that grave
    Get up, get up, get up
    Get up out of that grave
    Get up, get up, get up
    Get up out of that grave
    Get up, get up, get up
    Get up out of that grave
    Get up, get up, get up
    Get up out of that grave
    He picked me up
    Turned me around
    Placed my feet on solid ground
    I thank the Master
    I thank the Savior
    Because He healed my heart
    He changed my name
    Forever free, I’m not the same
    I thank the Master
    I thank the Savior
    I thank God
    Source: Musixmatch
    Songwriters: Chuck Butler / Dante Bowe / Aaron Moses / Enrique Holmes / Jesse Cline / Maryanne George
    I Thank God lyrics © Be Essential Songs, Bethel Worship Publishing, Maverick City Publishing, Heritage Worship Music Publishing, Mj George Music

    1. Rhonda J. says:

      YES..I was a weary soul, a vagabond!! And just when I ran out of road…I met a man…I didn’t know…Get up, get up!! Yes!! One of my favorite songs! I still need to read the words though!! So good!!

    2. Mercy says:

      Love this song :)

  18. Danielle B says:

    I’m so grateful that it is not my striving that makes me loved by God! I’d be sunk if that was the case and my perfectionism even more severe. What a wonderful reminder, “ He is the Lord, mighty to save and full of abounding grace. What He requires from us is a desire “to know Him and the power of His resurrection” (Philippians 3:10), a power that is available to all who receive the gospel of grace. May we remember and always be thankful for the privilege of being able to stand on the merit of Christ alone.”

    1. Gwineth52 says:

      Yes, Danielle! Down with striving. Up with songs of praise.

  19. Adrienne says:

    The end of our Proverbs reading… the one who finds me, finds life… this was a reminder of the Philippians passage the other day… to live is Christ.
    .
    May we always remember that in our elevator pitch. ❤️

  20. G says:

    Today’s reading brought to mind the song, “In Christ Alone,” so I have that playing, lol. Over the weekend, I realized I was allowing the enemy to steal my joy with everything going on lately. The chorus of Tauren Wells’, “Take it All Back” has been in my mind and on repeat in the car as a result.

    My uncle came to visit for the weekend. My son didn’t want the day off on Friday, so he went to school while my daughter, uncle, and I went to the art museum. It was so fun to see what captured my daughter’s eye! I think that was what I loved most. She is very artistic and one of the favorites of the art teacher. Even though it is free, we’ve not taken her to the museum since she was 10, at least. She was soaking it all in, and I loved every moment.

    1. Cee Gee says:

      So sweet! Glad you had that moment of joy with your daughter! I love “Take It All Back” and jack up the volume every time so I can sing louder! Lol My favorite line is the extended run, “I’m calling the angels d…o…w…n”!

      1. Rhonda J. says:

        Me too! We are using it as our “theme” song each week in jail ministry as we read the book Giant Killers! I still can’t seem to get the words down though as hard as I try! hahahaha

  21. Traci Veschak says:

    This was helpful. I’m in a difficult season of life. Feeling unworthy and hopeless. If I just work harder, it’ll get better. But this is showing me that’s not the case.

    1. Jill R. says:

      Traci, That’s a lie I’ve struggled with too. There isn’t anything we can do to get God to love us more. In fact, for me, the more I try the more I don’t feel I’m doing enough and then I feel further away so I try harder and exhaust myself in the trying. I don’t find rest in Him. It’s a work in progress for me. When I can believe His promise of love & forgiveness- no strings attached- the inner peace it brings is full of deep rest.
      May you experience His grace in a deeper way this week. ~

      1. Cee Gee says:

        Great encouragement, Jill. You are not alone, Traci! ❤

  22. Linda in NC says:

    GM, Ladies. I’m behind in my reading. What a month this has been! Gene went from impaction…praise it’s gone…to ER last Mon for bladder retention. Again I come asking for many prayers. Urologist made the decision on Fri to leave catheter in u til this Fri. It’s been difficult for both of us. Our prayer is for it to come out permanently then.
    My brother’s wife in SC passed away on Sat afternoon. She had been in poor health and had dementia. Her funeral is on Fri am. I will not be able to attend because of Gene’s procedure.
    Today at 12:30 I’m to have a medial branch block to hopefully help with my back pain.
    Sooo much happening at once.
    I’m loving Philippines. My favorite book!! ❤❤

    1. Carol J Mylin says:

      Linda Dear…Lifting you, our other precious SRT Caregivers, and several of my dear friends, who are also in this situation, to Jesus… He truly is our only Hope…Our Refuge and Strong Tower… Praying that you will have a strong sense of the Holy Spirit’s Power washing over you, from the top of your head, to the soles of your feet… equipping you for the daunting tasks of this day!! In Jesus name, Amen! ♥️

    2. Cheryl Blow says:

      Linda, I’m praying for you, Gene, your brother, and for peace and comfort!

    3. Wendy B says:

      I’m so sorry for you are going through. Have prayed for you right now. May the Lord be your strength, encouragement, hope and peace❤️

    4. Lynne from Alabama says:

      Precious Linda, I am all too familiar with the difficult life of a caregiver. I pray for you (and Gene) every day. I’m so sorry to hear about your SIL. May God continue to strengthen you physically and emotionally, dear sister! You are loved! ❤️

    5. Cee Gee says:

      LINDA, thank you for reaching out to us! I am praying along with our dear sisters for strength, resilience, and PEACE through these days. Praying for successful relief for the back pain. I am so sorry you won’t be able to attend the funeral. Please keep us posted. Sending hugs! ❤

  23. Lizzie T says:

    Growing up in religion, I had a fear of God, but didn’t think I could actually have a relationship with him. It’s unimaginable the love, grace and mercy He shows to us, and I’m constantly in awe of his goodness. May my life’s focus be to know him more!

  24. Aimee D-R says:

    Yes Father Thank Hou for sending us Jesus! I want to know you and rely on Your Wisdom, Power and Grace even more my Lord Jesus! In His mighty name, Amen

  25. Kelly (NEO) says:

    Everything in my life I would put in the “plus column” (think worthy of an Instagram post, lol) is “dung” compaired to not only knowing Jesus, but SUFFERING for Him. O, Lord, easy to say, but so hard to live out.
    .
    Ladies, those who responded to Saturday’s post, thank you so much. So good to rejoice in answered prayer and see how God is working through our trails for His glory.
    .
    INDIANA ELAINE – wow, Steve cannot seem to catch a breath between trials. My heart breaks for his hardships.
    .
    ALEIDA POLANCO – praying for this transition for your family.

    1. Indiana Elaine says:

      My heart breaks for him as well, thank you. Together we are praying for no falls or injuries in the next month!! May God surround him with protection.

      1. Kelly (NEO) says:

        Supernatural bubble wrap!

  26. Searching says:

    The strength of faith of Paul, of the disciples, of the early believers – how strong is my faith?? May I remember all that was sacrificed so that I could be saved! No other blessing can begin to compare so why would I want to boast about anything else? Lord, remind me of this when I open my mouth.

    My God Can Do Anything is the chorus that comes to mind this morning.

    CATHERINE MCVEY – praying for Lisa’s complete healing, and for wisdom for her medical team
    MARGARET W – praying for healing of your relationship with your daughter and of her relationship with Jesus.
    CAROLINE BRIDGES- glad you are catching up ❤️
    RHONDA J and TINA – yes, thinking about our dear DOROTHY ❤️
    VICTORIA E ❤️
    CEE GEE ❤️
    INDIANA ELAINE – praying for Steven

    KELLY (NEO) praying for a great 2nd week of training the new hire ❤️

    Sisters, over the weekend I was made aware of God’s amazing grace for a young person and their need for prayer. Along with punishment, they have been given a second chance that most in their situation do not receive. Fervently praying they realize the very deep seriousness of this, for their relationship with the Lord to be strengthened and reinforced as they have previously boldly spoken of their faith in the Lord.

    1. Kelly (NEO) says:

      May the opportunity be for God’s glory

    2. Cheryl Blow says:

      Praying

    3. Cee Gee says:

      ❤ praying along with y’all for this young person!

    4. Margaret W. says:

      Your prayers are being heard. Much growth and healing during this trip. And after the little tiff we did have, both her sisters reminded me that she was not living at home during the worst part of the divorce to witness her father’s deception. It was healing to me to know the other two have my back. The youngest recently had her first sweetheart break up with her, and she said that if a relationship of a few months hurt this much, she couldn’t even imagine how much it hurt to lose someone you’d been with for 27 years. I have no words for the maturity and validation she gave me; she praised me for being such a loving person. Even if she doesn’t yet think she needs Jesus, I know I am doing it right. If I died today, I could be at peace knowing that I have truly passed on my faith to the next generation as much as humanly possible. But as long as I am here, I will keep at it for all of my babies to find my savior and heal from the hurt I unknowingly exposed them to.

  27. Donna Mitchell says:

    Chosen and Precious! I am so thankful and grateful for a Father that constantly reminds me, I am Chosen and Precious. My sisters, if you are not able to think on anything else, remember you are Chosen and Precious. Be blessed.

    1. Kelly (NEO) says:

      Amen

  28. Claire B says:

    ♥️

    1. Adrienne says:

      Hi, Claire!

  29. Mary Ann Graves says:

    Amen

  30. Tricia C says:

    The message at church yesterday was about Peter. Peter denied Jesus three times and still Jesus used him. Peter’s ministry was pivotal in starting the Christian church. We can all be used by the Lord. Paul, as he said in this passage we read today, was certainly someone who made a 180 and gave up his whole life being a Pharisee to follow Jesus. He was inspired to write some amazing things we read in the Bible.
    All of that to say, we, in our mess, can be used of God. Right where we are. He will make us and mold us into what He wants for us. We just have to be open to that.
    Lord, today I am so grateful for Your Word, and how You remind me, that You created me, so You know what makes me tick and what I need to move in the direction You want. Please help me to be open to Your promptings, to spread the Gospel.

    “Have thine own way, Lord!
    Have thine own way!
    Thou art the potter,
    I am the clay.
    Mold me and make me
    after thy will,
    while I am waiting,
    yielded and still.
    Have thine own way, Lord!
    Have thine own way!
    Search me and try me,
    Savior today!
    Wash me just now, Lord,
    wash me just now,
    as in thy presence
    humbly I bow.
    Have thine own way, Lord!
    Have thine own way!
    Wounded and weary,
    help me I pray!
    Power, all power,
    surely is thine!
    Touch me and heal me,
    Savior divine!
    4 Have thine own way, Lord!
    Have thine own way!
    Hold o’er my being
    absolute sway.
    Fill with thy Spirit
    till all shall see
    Christ only, always,
    living in me!”

    1. Sally B. says:

      I also had a lesson including Peter in church yesterday, Tricia. The passage was in Acts where the church is having the first council discussion about the early Gentile believers and what “they need to do” to become fellow followers of Christ. Peter stands up to testify “..why are you putting God to the test by placing a yoke on the neck of the disciples that neither our fathers nor we have been able to bear?” (Acts 15:10) I was struck by Peter’s humility. Such a huge transformation from the man who declared he would never betray Christ, even if all others did. Praise God for the transforming power of His Grace! Father mold us after thy will and in Jesus’ image today.

      1. Cee Gee says:

        That was our lesson, too, DALLY! i shared part of the devo with our SS teacher’s wife! ❤

        1. Cee Gee says:

          *SALLY!!

      2. Tricia C says:

        Yes and Amen!

    2. Searching says:

      So true, TRICIA. Thank you for the song reminder, beautiful song for aligning our hearts and minds with the Lord. ❤️

    3. Adrienne says:

      Amen to that, Tricia! ❤️

    4. Rhonda J says:

      I wrote down that same phrase while singing the song! Have thine own way Lord…have thine own way!
      Great Prayer, ty!

  31. Aleida Polanco says:

    Sisters, wanted to give you an update on our son, Victor. He will be arriving Monday night (9/23) from southern CA, staying with us for 3 months while he finds a good job and a safe place to live. With the holidays approaching, not sure of the job market. So please pray for a miracle. My husband and I (we’re empty nesters and recently downsized to a much smaller home) sent him guidelines (boundaries) that he needs to adhere to while he’s here. One of them is no drugs including marijuana. We also expect him to hustle in finding a job. We will help him find care for his adhd, depression and anxiety (possibly bipolar at this point). Please pray that the Lord will be merciful and open the right doors for all of that. Also that he and his dad will get along. They’ve always bud heads and have had some heavy conflicts. Please pray for supernatural peace and love in this home and in our family. Thank you!❤️

    1. Sally B. says:

      Continuing to pray for your family, Aleida.

    2. Searching says:

      Praying, ALEIDA, and thank you for the update. Praying for peace in your home, for a 180° turnaround for Victor (as we see in Paul), that he will find the right job and the right place to live, that Christ will be Lord of his life rather than drugs or poor friend choices, for treatment of his adhd, depression, anxiety, that he will truly appreciate your and his dad’s love for him in creating this opportunity for a new start.

      1. Cee Gee says:

        ❤ amen! ALEIDA, joining my heart with the hearts of our sisters in praying for a mighty blessing for Victor/your family and may God be glorified! ❤

    3. Theresa says:

      Praying for Victor, you, and your husband. For peace, help, and provision.

    4. Sherry says:

      Praying for a peaceful and healing time for you, your husband, and your son.

    5. Libby K says:

      Aleida- I have been praying for you since your first post about your son. I cannot imagine what how this rips you apart as a mother. Finding the balance between loving him and not becoming an enabler must bring so much stress to you. Praying so hard that this is a fresh start for you all.

    6. G says:

      My kids are younger, but I have dealt with some of the same issues. My daughter has been dx bipolar (not official until she is 18 in December but the meds work!) and my son’s addiction struggle happens to be marijuana. We are finally getting a shadow of a line on home drug tests at the 300mg level, which shows he is getting clean. Last weekend’s extreme emotional outbursts have ended, praise God. I’m praying for Victor.

    7. Michelle P says:

      Praying God’s peace and wisdom to you, Victor, and hubby. God bless you, sister. ❤️

    8. Adrienne says:

      Continued prayers for your family, sweet Aleida! ❤️

    9. Rhonda J. says:

      Yes, praying for this to be an aid in transformation for him! Hugs to you…rely on the Lord to help you all in this situation! Hard! YES! Praying for a supernatural move where God can be seen in a powerful way!

    10. Cheryl Blow says:

      Praying for you, Victor and your husband. The God’s peace and presence will fill your home!

    11. Wendy B says:

      Have prayed for your family. Wisdom, guidance, provision, endurance, peace, hope, help and a radical transformation in Victor’s life. We pray with faith that Jesus makes all things new

    12. Carol H says:

      Praying for your situation and all involved. We are in a similar situation, my heart goes out to you ❤️

    13. Erin Pieratt says:

      Dearest ALEIDA, I’ve been praying for you and want to share a bit about my husband of 20 years to hopefully encourage you. We are on the west side of Portland and this summer he was diagnosed with bipolar II. Years of mental health struggles and pain but finally a diagnosis that makes sense. He is now on a mood stabilizer in addition to his ongoing antidepressant medication. However, THC has been very helpful in the past to help him function. He is currently not taking THC as he starts daily TMS treatments on Wednesday that will, Lord willing, reduce depression symptoms. He hasn’t had a job since June and is on short term disability through his union as we try this new treatment option. Jesus is the only reason I’m still functioning as a wife and mom as the trauma of it all has been so hard. Jesus, please bring the right diagnosis, medication and treatment to Victor. May he find his hope in you. Please bring people around this family who understand mental health and who can help them get the services they need. Break the chains of any diagnosis and bring freedom and life to Victor. We trust you, Jesus, to heal and to make a way!