In the blanks below write the two most significant statements in today’s reading assignment. Be prepared to discuss why the statements you chose were significant to you.“…we still possess a residual effect of that ‘old man’ even after salvation. We still have an indwelling principle of sin in us that corrupts every part of us.Continue reading “from Rachel: Recognizing the Evil Within (part one)”
Tag Archives: faith
from Rachel: Understanding Biblical Change (part five)
In the blanks below write the two most significant statements in today’s reading assignment. Be prepared to discuss why the statements you chose were significant to you.“You must have a working knowledge of the doctrine of progressive sanctification and must, by God’s grace, be practicing it in your own life.“Understand that God has called everyContinue reading “from Rachel: Understanding Biblical Change (part five)”
Strange Fire on the Candle
Dearest Rachel – As with so many stories I try to relate to you about the happenings around me, I’d like to think this would amuse you. It’s always better to see the humor in the misadventures of life than to be annoyed (or angered) by them; if nothing else, the latter doesn’t solve anything,Continue reading “Strange Fire on the Candle”
Every Single Verse
Dearest Rachel – One of the things that we kept of yours throughout the purge of the house during that first year after your passing was your collection of church hymnals and songbooks. Many of them have hymns organized by subject: the story of salvation, praise to God, appeals for help, and so forth. AndContinue reading “Every Single Verse”
from Rachel: Understanding Biblical Change (part four)
In the blanks below write the two most significant statements in today’s reading assignment. Be prepared to discuss why the statements you chose were significant to you.“When God gives a child to a Christian couple, they must realize that their little bundle of joy is essentially a pagan – Wow, that’s so true, yet soContinue reading “from Rachel: Understanding Biblical Change (part four)”
from Rachel: Understanding Biblical Change (part three)
In the blanks below write the two most significant statements in today’s reading assignment. Be prepared to discuss why the statements you chose were significant to you.“Failure to cooperate with God in the three responsibilities in the power of the spirit accounts for every failure in Christian living – why we’re here (doing this study,Continue reading “from Rachel: Understanding Biblical Change (part three)”
Sitting On the Pain Scale
Dearest Rachel – The problem with emotions and feelings is that it’s difficult to explain what one is feeling in a way that another person would understand exactly. Oh, we might be able to give a general idea to an audience what something feels like – and usually, that’s the best we can hope forContinue reading “Sitting On the Pain Scale”
from Rachel: Understanding Biblical Change (part two)
In the blanks below write the two most significant statements in today’s reading assignment. Be prepared to discuss why the statements you chose were significant to you. “Our Lord did not… – but these are byproducts of godliness, not primary goals for the Christian life – This is an important distinction to keep a goodContinue reading “from Rachel: Understanding Biblical Change (part two)”
The List We All Need To Make
Dearest Rachel – I don’t really need to tell you about all this, since I already did at the time (and basically in the moment – which means that the story I related over the course of several letters may have been clouded by my emotions at the time, for obvious reasons), but during thatContinue reading “The List We All Need To Make”
Blame it On the Rain
Dearest Rachel – Friday morning in Ginosar – yes, somewhere along the way, I seem to have lost a day – and while I keep hoping to be able to wander about the hotel campus (and maybe find the duplex we stayed in back in 2018), I’m still short on time to do so. The hourContinue reading “Blame it On the Rain”
On the Way Out and Up
Dearest Rachel – Wednesday morning, and we’re up and out after an hour’s breakfast. Daniel and I try to eat as early as possible to finish putting ourselves together afterwards, but we barely make it to the bus by our scheduled departure time. You would have been, maybe not so much proud, as understanding of ourContinue reading “On the Way Out and Up”
from Rachel: The Arrogant Enemy of God
What two kings will rise up against this figure ‘at the time of the end’ (v. 40)? “the king of the South and the king of the North” How do you specifically guard against self-exaltation? In other words, when you come under this exact temptation, what keeps you from falling for it? “I’m not sureContinue reading “from Rachel: The Arrogant Enemy of God”
from Rachel: Antiochus III the Great
Remember, [the] conflict is biblically significant because a very important piece of land was between Syria and Egypt. What was it? “Israel” Quick review: Whose dynasty is reflected by the kings of the:North – “Seleucus” South – “Ptolemy” Now let’s read Daniel 11:10-19. According to the chart, what two Seleucid kings (of the North) areContinue reading “from Rachel: Antiochus III the Great”
from Rachel: Jumping Ahead
Please read the following segments and record God’s obvious point in each one:Isaiah 41:24-24 – “False gods can’t prophesy accurately”Isaiah 44:6-8 – “God is the only true God.” Describe each thing Isaiah 46:10 says God does.“He makes known any part of history He wants. His purpose will stand and He will do what He wants.”Continue reading “from Rachel: Jumping Ahead”
from Rachel: Set Your Mind
Looking back on your life journey, which season or moment do you most hope God will show you ‘behind the scenes’? “Perhaps the answer to ‘Why me? Why this?’ on various health/accident issues, but I think I’d most like to know about many little moments – brief encounters with people – what became of peopleContinue reading “from Rachel: Set Your Mind”
from Rachel: Mourning an Anniversary
Our focus today is on Daniel 10:1-4. Please review these verses and document every reference they make to time. “‘3rd year of Cyrus’ (1); ‘At that time’ (2); ‘mourned for 3 weeks’ (2); ‘3 weeks were over’ (3); ‘the 24th day of the first month’ (4)” Daniel 10:1 tells us ‘a revelation was given toContinue reading “from Rachel: Mourning an Anniversary”
from Rachel: While I Was Still In Prayer
Read Daniel 9:20-23. How does the word ‘while’ emphasize timing?The angel Gabriel came to Daniel…verse 20: ‘while “I was speaking and praying”’verse 21: ‘while “I was still in prayer”’ Imagine you’re in the throes of desperate pleas to God, pouring out confessions and cries of intercession, when suddenly you’re interrupted by a celestial messenger whoContinue reading “from Rachel: While I Was Still In Prayer”
from Rachel: A ‘We’ Kind of Attitude
…tally the times you see the word ‘we’ in Daniel’s prayer and record the total here: “16” Put yourself in Daniel’s position. Why do you think he shared the blame for the sins of the masses even though he was innocent of many of their transgressions? “He was honored to be Jewish and part ofContinue reading “from Rachel: A ‘We’ Kind of Attitude”
from Rachel: Scripture Interaction
When was the last time you felt God telling you to get a grip and see what is really important? “Probably at least three times yesterday. The later I am the more compelled I feel to make sure everything is just right, and I left here or Dana’s in a hurry 5 – 10 minutesContinue reading “from Rachel: Scripture Interaction”
from Rachel: A Master of Intrigue
Briefly describe the concept of a dual reference.“One prophecy can foretell both events in the distant future and foreshadowing events in the nearer future.” Before I tell you the meaning of the Greek word translated ‘parable,’ let’s recap yesterday‘s lesson. Based on our previous study, briefly explain why the Old Testament was translated into GreekContinue reading “from Rachel: A Master of Intrigue”
from Rachel: Oppression of the Saints
Let’s start with a recap of yesterday’s lesson. Please list the three additional names/titles for the ‘little horn.’ “Man of Lawlessness“Beast“Antichrist” Perhaps nothing is more dangerous than an evil genius. Why do you suppose evil and intelligence form such a deadly combination? “Dumb or even average evil will only get so far before it tripsContinue reading “from Rachel: Oppression of the Saints”
Don’t Always Follow Leaders
Dearest Rachel – I mentioned yesterday about reading through my news feed as part of my body’s scheme to distract my mind from getting everybody up and out of the house to work on getting back into shape, particularly after a couple of days in a row in which I’d had a heavy meal atContinue reading “Don’t Always Follow Leaders”
Constructive Notice
Dearest Rachel – This morning, when I woke up and reached for my phone (to see what time it is, honest! I’m not gonna look through my news feed until I know I’m not going to go back to sleep, and need to use the washroom. Yes, that happened this time around, and yes, itContinue reading “Constructive Notice”
from Rachel: Same Spot, Different Despot
Fill in the blank according to Luke 21:24: ‘Jerusalem will be trampled on by the Gentiles until “the times of the Gentiles” are fulfilled.Now, fill in the blank, according to the final words of Daniel‘s fifth chapter: ‘That very night Belshazzar, King of the Babylonians, was slain, and “Darius the Mede” took over the kingdom,Continue reading “from Rachel: Same Spot, Different Despot”
from Rachel: Weighed and Found Wanting
Read Daniel 5:18-31. What was Belshazzar’s defining mistake (v. 22)? “He had not humbled himself (though he knew what had happened to his grandfather).” Can you think of any easier route to victory than learning from the mistakes of others? Oh, the pain we’d avoid! Really think about it: why do we tend to beContinue reading “from Rachel: Weighed and Found Wanting”
from Rachel: An Extraordinary Spirit
Read Daniel 5:10-17. Who told Belshazzar about Daniel? “the queen” List all the ways she described Daniel: “① ‘has the spirit of the holy gods in him’;“② has ‘insight and intelligence and wisdom like that of the gods’;“③ was appointed ‘chief of the magicians, enchanters, astrologers and diviners’;“④ the king called him Belteshazzar;“⑤ has ‘aContinue reading “from Rachel: An Extraordinary Spirit”
from Rachel: Healthy Sorrow
List everything James 1:13-18 tells you about God: “‘God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He tempt anyone’ (13) He sends good and perfect thing, He is the Father of the heavenly lights, He does not change (17), He chose to give us birth, and He made us firstfruits of all He created.” WhatContinue reading “from Rachel: Healthy Sorrow”
Offering Assistance
Dearest Rachel – I honestly didn’t know whether I’d have time to get in touch with you today. Oh, I’ll have hours in which I’ll be doing nothing but sitting in the passenger seat of a U-Haul bound for your hometown, but I think that may serve a purpose in its own right, which deservesContinue reading “Offering Assistance”
from Rachel: Unholy Use of Holy Vessels
Please reread the portion of Scripture that held our primary attentions in session 5: Daniel 5:1-9. What part of it did God use to speak to you? “Satan revels in using holy vessels to toast unholy things.” Read 2 Timothy 2:20-21,26 and briefly describe the parallel. “We are holy vessels, but if we surrender toContinue reading “from Rachel: Unholy Use of Holy Vessels”
from Rachel: Break Off
Which part of the interpretation recorded in verses 20-27 do you imagine was most disturbing to King Nebuchadnezzar? “I would imagine the living with wild animals, eating grass like cattle, and sleeping outside every night.” Glance back at Daniel 2:48-49. What had Nebuchadnezzar done for Daniel after he interpreted the first dream? “He had madeContinue reading “from Rachel: Break Off”
The Son in the Vineyard
Dearest Rachel – So last night was an assembly for what might be considered the leaders of the church to present their pledges for the upcoming… well, it’s not so much a capital campaign like we’ve held in the past for certain specific projects as it is a commitment for future giving going forward. There’sContinue reading “The Son in the Vineyard”
from Rachel: Stripped Leaves and Scattered Fruit
The image in King Nebuchadnezzar’s first prophetic dream was a statue. What was the image in the second dream (today’s segment)? “a flourishing, sheltering tree“ According to the definition, what is the word luxuriant used to describe? “luxuriant or flourishing trees” How did the first tree symbolize Nebuchadnezzar‘s reign in Babylon up to that time?Continue reading “from Rachel: Stripped Leaves and Scattered Fruit”
from Rachel: Stubborn Minds
What image was in Nebuchadnezzar’s first dream? “a very tall statue being destroyed by a very big rock.” What kinds of metals or materials comprised the image? “gold, silver, bronze, iron, and iron and baked clay” Recall to the best of your ability the parts of the statue’s ‘body’ made up of each of thoseContinue reading “from Rachel: Stubborn Minds”
No One Expects…
Dearest Rachel – And to think, the Brits (in the form of Monty Python’s Flying Circus) would make fun of the Spanish Inquisition. As it happens, they went through their own periods of attempting to root out heretics. And while I’m sure their methods weren’t like the one we faced in my dream, I dareContinue reading “No One Expects…”
from Rachel: The Lap of Luxury
What kind of goals did you have for life? In other words, what was your idea of personal success? “I couldn’t picture college or adult life, so my impossible goal would’ve been to be five again and stay a kid.” Have your life goals or ideas of success changed at all since that time? “yes”Continue reading “from Rachel: The Lap of Luxury”
from Rachel: My Pleasure to Tell
What title would you give to this episode? “God Humbles a King” God is called the “Most High”… five more times.… As you come to each one, record the verse and any contextual insight… v.2 – The Most High God – performs miraculous signs and wonders“v.17” – “The Most High” – “is sovereign over theContinue reading “from Rachel: My Pleasure to Tell”
Molding Fired Clay
Dearest Rachel – It’s axiomatic that, somewhere along the line, every analogy breaks down at some point; the trick is to try and figure out where that breakdown point is. And while I don’t know where that point is on this particular topic, it’s entirely possible I’ll be able to figure it out as IContinue reading “Molding Fired Clay”
from Rachel: The Heart of Loyalty
Read Daniel 3:13-23. Glance back at your notes from the session and record a new insight you received specifically pertaining to this segment of Scripture. “Beth’s three scenarios makes sense, but so does her point that these men probably never even considered the possibility of the middle one – the one that occurred.” Look atContinue reading “from Rachel: The Heart of Loyalty”
from Rachel: Another Side of Self-Absorption
Hopefully, the familiar Scripture segment [Daniel 3:1-7] sparked recollection of yesterday’s lesson. What point from the lesson spoke most personally to you and why? “I suppose the question at the bottom of… page 49. I do focus too much on people’s outfits, haircuts, etc.” [C]onstantly thinking little of ourselves is still constantly thinking about ourselves.Continue reading “from Rachel: Another Side of Self-Absorption”
Scorch Marks and Smoke Wisps
Dearest Rachel – Toni asked me the other day, upon realizing that the anniversary of your accident was coming up soon, if I was planning to do anything that day to honor it and you. Now, when I read that sentence after writing it, it makes it sound like she was asking if she couldContinue reading “Scorch Marks and Smoke Wisps”
Daylight Between Us
Dearest Rachel – It wasn’t what I expected to be doing of a Tuesday evening, but as dates go, I suppose it could have been worse. At least it was a pleasant discussion, and neither of us had much time to develop a case of nerves beforehand. You can probably guess even just by thatContinue reading “Daylight Between Us”
from Rachel: From “He” to “You”
Which parts of Harper’s definition of ‘providence’ mean the most to you? “‘The will of the Creator who is actively involved…’” Now, return to Daniel’s proclamation of praise in 2:20-23. Note specific ways these verses express God’s sovereignty and providence. “‘He removes kings and establishes kings’” How does the sovereignty of God described in theseContinue reading “from Rachel: From “He” to “You””
Return on Investment
Dearest Rachel – When I was in junior high, I attended a Lutheran school, having been withdrawn from the local public school after a third-grade teacher got sick and tired of me being the precocious “well, ackshully…” kid in her class and told my parents I needed to have my head examined. They actually didContinue reading “Return on Investment”
from Rachel: Urgent Tact, Urgent Prayer
Pray for insight, then read Daniel 2:13-18. Who was Arioch? “He was the commander of the king’s guard.” How does verse 14 describe Daniel’s approach to Arioch? “He spoke with wisdom and tact.” How does Daniel’s approach to Arioch show tact? “Daniel somehow manages to get him to talk before acting, and they have aContinue reading “from Rachel: Urgent Tact, Urgent Prayer”
from Rachel: A Royally Troubled Mind
List evidences of the dream’s impact on Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 2:1-12) “His mind was troubled, he could not sleep, he was demanding and distrustful of his astrologers, and then he was murderously angry.” Reflect again on our text. What do you think caused Nebuchadnezzar to feel this wasn’t an ordinary nightmare? “Verse 1 says ‘dreams’; maybeContinue reading “from Rachel: A Royally Troubled Mind”
from Rachel: Renaming and Resisting
The days seem to pass slowly, but the years fly like the wind. ‘I choose joy. I may not feel it, but God has appropriated it and I choose it.’ Please read Daniel 1:6-7. Write each of the young men’s names below and… what they were renamed: “Daniel – God is my judge” renamed “BelteshazzarContinue reading “from Rachel: Renaming and Resisting”
The Rules of Recab
Dearest Rachel – There’s an obscure story in the middle of the book of Jeremiah, in chapter 35, where the prophet is instructed to invite members of a certain family, descendants of a man named Recab, to eat with him at the Temple. Now, it so happens that this family had a number of traditions,Continue reading “The Rules of Recab”
from Rachel: The Lord Bless You
Reflect on your own experience of going face down [before God]. Did it have any impact on you? “yes” If so, describe how it affected you. “It helped me focus my entire attention on him rather than have my mind wandering as I tried to pray.” How have you grown as a worshiper and psalmistContinue reading “from Rachel: The Lord Bless You”
from Rachel: Bless the Lord
Glance back on the Word Biblical Commentary translation of Psalm 134 and write the basic message of the final Psalm of Ascent: “Come bless YAHWEH, worship Him, and be blessed by Him.” I chose the WBC translation because I knew we’d more likely notice the repetition of the less familiar Yahweh than the expected title,Continue reading “from Rachel: Bless the Lord”
from Rachel: A United Family of God
Please glance back at your previous lesson and re-read Psalm 133. What two metaphors did the psalmist employ as expressions of kindred living together in unity?First metaphor (v. 2): “fine oil on the head”Second metaphor (v. 3): “the dew from Mount Hermon” Read Exodus 29:1-9 and describe it briefly here:“God told Moses how to consecrateContinue reading “from Rachel: A United Family of God”
from Rachel: Like a Weaned Child
What do you think Peterson meant by ‘neurotic dependency’? “Maybe whiny insecurity, coming to God as our therapist (??)” Offer a scenario depicting a way this could happen: “An idea, plan, event, etc. that really feels like God’s will fizzles, gets canceled, causes controversy, etc.” God‘s goal is not children scared into silence, but thoseContinue reading “from Rachel: Like a Weaned Child”
from Rachel: They Have Not Prevailed
Psalm 18:19 paints a very different picture of life with God as our Deliverer. What image does it use to contrast with oppression? “being brought to a spacious place” It’s testimony time. In what way would you say God has brought you out of oppression into a spacious place? “I haven’t faced much oppression, butContinue reading “from Rachel: They Have Not Prevailed”
from Rachel: Olive Shoots Around Your Table
Write Hosea 14:9 from day 2 as a great reminder as we prepare to put both feet on Psalm 128. “Let whoever is wise understand these things, and whoever is insightful recognize them. For the ways of the Lord are right.” Read from day 2 Psalm 128: 1-4,6 in either version. How does it depictContinue reading “from Rachel: Olive Shoots Around Your Table”
from Rachel: A Heritage from the Lord
Please read the [entirety of Psalm 127]… then list everything it says involving family. “Sons are a heritage; children are a reward; sons of youth are like arrows; a man with many is happy; children bring honor.” How did Christ blow the doors off our concept of family (Matthew 12:46-50) “He taught that fellow believersContinue reading “from Rachel: A Heritage from the Lord”
from Rachel: Sowing the Seed
Please turn back to day 3 and read either translation of the psalm, giving special attention to verses 4-6. Today, we center on the statements in the last two verses. Does Psalm 126:5-6 sound more like a… “hope (in the definite, Biblical sense – not the wishful, worldly sense); promise” Complete the following according toContinue reading “from Rachel: Sowing the Seed”
from Rachel: To Laugh Again
Though one goes along weeping, carrying the bag of seed, he will surely come back with shouts of joy, carrying his sheaves “‘We shall come rejoicing / bringing in the sheaves’” Psalm 126 falls conveniently into perfect halves. The Message makes the transition clearest. Write the verse that you think introduces the second half. “‘AndContinue reading “from Rachel: To Laugh Again”
from Rachel: He Surrounds His People
Today you and I will steep ourselves entirely in the first verse and the picture it draws. How does verse 1 describe the people who trust in God? “like Mount Zion” ‘Those who [are “confident”] in the Lord are like Mount Zion. It cannot be shaken; it remains forever.’ How would you describe confidence inContinue reading “from Rachel: He Surrounds His People”
from Rachel: Praise the Lord
Has Satan effectively tempted you to oppose your own best interests? “yes” If so, did you did you get fed up with being your own worst earthly enemy and decide to let God bring you some healing? “yes and no – lots of times – never permanently” In our introductory session, we talked about threeContinue reading “from Rachel: Praise the Lord”
The Curse
Dearest Rachel – This may seem strange to bring up so many days later, but it’s not as if thoughts are necessarily time-sensitive – they occur to me when they occur to me – so I’m going to talk about this one now, if that’s okay with you. It’s not as if much happened lastContinue reading “The Curse”
from Rachel: If the Lord Had Not
Don’t think for a moment He is inattentive as you throw open your Bible and seek to hear His voice amid so many voices competing for your attention. Our help is in the name of the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth /  God’s strong name is our help, the same God whoContinue reading “from Rachel: If the Lord Had Not”
To Clear My Mind
Dearest Rachel – So yesterday, I met with Pastor Scott, in part at my dad’s suggestion. It’s been a while since we used to get together for lunch – in part for fairly obvious reasons, but it’s been more than just the fact that I’ve been traveling that’s keep us from connecting. Just like withContinue reading “To Clear My Mind”
from Rachel: Our Own House, Our Own City
What were Paul’s feelings towards the believers in Philippi (Philippians 1:3-8)? “He thanked God for them.“He longed for them with all the affection of Christ Jesus.” Accepting that no fellowship of believers is perfect, what are a few things you really love about yours? “I love the wealth of generational diversity. The Kindred Spirits especially,Continue reading “from Rachel: Our Own House, Our Own City”
from Rachel: The Lord is Your Shelter
What do the following Scriptures say about ways people can be of authentic help to one another? Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 – “‘Two are better than one…’ ‘If one falls down, his friend can help him up.’”2 Corinthians 1:10-11 – “We support each other with our prayers” How about you? Name a few people who are aContinue reading “from Rachel: The Lord is Your Shelter”
from Rachel: The Lord Your Keeper
My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth. “I depend on him so often for so much.” The Lord protects you/Yahweh is your keeper, the Lord is a shelter right by your side  The Lord will protect you from all harm; he will protect your life. The Lord will protectContinue reading “from Rachel: The Lord Your Keeper”
from Rachel: Woe to Me
Did you get the three approaches? “Say it –> Work it –> Pray it” In my distress, I called to the Lord and He answered me. “Too many times to count, and even in the mundane He answers me.” I’m in trouble. I cry to God, desperate for an answer. “Less hopeful version, whether orContinue reading “from Rachel: Woe to Me”
from Rachel: The Display of His Presence
Please write benefit 5… from memory. “To enjoy God‘s presence” Read the familiar words of Isaiah 40:28-31 and savor every word. Write your favorite part of these verses. “31 ‘…but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles…’” I believe Isaiah 40:28-31 tells us exactly whatContinue reading “from Rachel: The Display of His Presence”
from Rachel: The Display of Satisfaction and Peace
Read Isaiah 58:6-12, and… write a one sentence summary expressing the heart of this passage. “If someone obeys God and becomes a powerful force for Him, He will satisfy their needs.” Theme 1 (v. 6): The kind of “fasting” God has chosen. Theme 2 (v. 11): [The Lord] will “satisfy” your needs in a sunContinue reading “from Rachel: The Display of Satisfaction and Peace”
from Rachel: The Display of His Glory
Now let’s consider the portrait of our second benefit… write benefit 2 of our covenant relationship with God. “To glorify God” A wonderful example of persons living beyond their human responses appears in 2 Corinthians 4:8-9. In one word, how would you characterize the kind of person these words describe? “strong” Read 2 Corinthians 4:7Continue reading “from Rachel: The Display of His Glory”
from Rachel: Taking Thoughts Captive
What is God’s goal for our thought life? “to think with the mind of Christ” In our previous lesson, we cited a possible reason why God usually does not simply remove temptation from us. What was it? “We would then still be just as vulnerable to all the similar attacks in the future.” Read PsalmContinue reading “from Rachel: Taking Thoughts Captive”
The Holiday and the Holy Day
Dearest Rachel – Let me get the aside out of the way first, as it’s a matter of mild frustration. I recorded a few comments about the confluence of Valentine’s Day and Ash Wednesday, and after shutting off the camera, realized there were so many other things I wanted to say, but couldn’t think ofContinue reading “The Holiday and the Holy Day”
from Rachel: Tearing Down the High Places
What do you see as the differences between casual thoughts and captivating thoughts? “I see the difference as how often they keep recurring and whether or not they return unbidden when I’ve decided to stop thinking about them.” So we can begin to think in applications from the start, describe two situations that could easilyContinue reading “from Rachel: Tearing Down the High Places”
Obeying Whose Orders?
Dearest Rachel – In retrospect, it probably wasn’t the best choice for me to be watching while I was waiting for the girls to show up last night. For all intents and purposes, I really should be talking to you mostly about the dinner we had last night; one last get-together before I ship out. AboutContinue reading “Obeying Whose Orders?”
from Rachel: A View From the Old
Pause and ask God to give you deep insight into His Word today. Now read Isaiah 26:3-6 and 2 Corinthians 10:3-5. Note every concept the two passages have in common. “demolishing strongholds and bringing them to utter destruction.” Note how the [following] three passages demonstrate that Satan deals directly with the human mind. Mark 4:15 – “HeContinue reading “from Rachel: A View From the Old”
from Rachel: The Fruit of Unfailing Love
Give at least five endings to the incomplete sentences, offering your own thoughts contrasting two children: one who believes he or she is loved and the other who does not. A child who believes he or she is loved… – “has confidence to go out into the world– “knows they can come home and beContinue reading “from Rachel: The Fruit of Unfailing Love”
from Rachel: Failure to Believe God’s Unfailing Love
Why should not believing God personally and lavishly loves us be considered a sin? “Perhaps, again (see page 177) the extreme pridefulness of thinking one can out-sin God’s love, or maybe it’s belittling Him and the size of His love.” Think of someone (besides God) you are absolutely positive loves you. Who is this person? “Randy” ListContinue reading “from Rachel: Failure to Believe God’s Unfailing Love”
from Rachel: The Fullness of Unfailing Love
Read 1 John 4:13-15. What happens when someone acknowledges that Jesus in the Son of God? “God lives in him (and he in God).” Can you think of a time when you were suddenly awash with the magnitude of God’s love for you personally? Describe it. “Beth’s story reminds me of [singing] ‘How Great Thou Art’ inContinue reading “from Rachel: The Fullness of Unfailing Love”
Exhausted by Everything
Dearest Rachel – For all that Dad insists that he’s “ready to go,” and he’s “so weak,” especially after being put through his paces in terms of exercise, the fact remains that he goes through with them and does them without complaint. Well, without much complaint, anyway; the bedsores on his backside, while slowly diminishing,Continue reading “Exhausted by Everything”
And There Will Be Joy!
Dearest Rachel – I know that it was one of our favorite films, but do you remember the last words of the King of Florin? It’s a fairly obscure line in the midst of a scene that memorable for other reasons, but let me see if I can’t refresh your memory (there’s a lot going onContinue reading “And There Will Be Joy!”
God’s Veto Power
Dearest Rachel – You would have never countenanced it: “Son, when you leave, can you take that out of here? It’s been in the corner for too long already, and I don’t feel like looking at it anymore.” “Okay, sure, Dad; I’ll bring it back to the house.” “No, don’t bring it back to my house.”Continue reading “God’s Veto Power”
Last-Minute Preparations
Dearest Rachel – As embarrassed as I may be to relate this to you, at least I can take comfort in the fact that you wouldn’t be giving me grief about it, as you were every bit as prone to procrastination (on a regular basis, I might add) as I have been this Christmas season.Continue reading “Last-Minute Preparations”
When Everything is Trivial…
Dearest Rachel – While the crisis has passed for now – Dad is settled in a nearly convalescent home, and undergoing physical and occupational therapy, such that he neither requires nor necessarily event wants too many people around him for too long thereafter, as he’s too tired to socialize, and will say so – thereContinue reading “When Everything is Trivial…”
from Rachel: Hearts Broken in Childhood
List every piece of evidence you can find to support the statement: “Christ loves children” He called a little child to stand among them. He said we must become like them to enter heaven. He said those humble like children are the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. If we welcome a little child inContinue reading “from Rachel: Hearts Broken in Childhood”
from Rachel: The Obstacle of Unbelief
According to Isaiah 57:14, what must be removed? “the obstacles” If the king found the path unprepared, he’d bypass the village and withhold his blessing. What are some obstacles you’ve battled in previous efforts to live the liberated, abundant life in Christ? – “Procrastination – “slothfulness – “love of TV – “love of computer gamesContinue reading “from Rachel: The Obstacle of Unbelief”
from Rachel: To Enjoy God’s Presence
After reading Isaiah 43:1-7, please complete the following: “When I read verse 1, I feel…” “Special (precious to God)” What reason exists for not giving way to fear? “God is with us.” Fill in the following blanks with the promises God made based on the following conditions. When you pass through the waters, “I willContinue reading “from Rachel: To Enjoy God’s Presence”
from Rachel: To Know God and Believe Him
֍A Christian is held captive anything that hinders the abundant and effective Spirit-filled life God planned for her֎ Circle what Paul added in 1 Corinthians 2:9 to Isaiah’s description“no mind has conceived.” Why have we been “chosen” (Isaiah 43:10)?– ”so we may know God– ”so we may believe God– ”so we may understand He isContinue reading “from Rachel: To Know God and Believe Him”
from Rachel: Don’t Run Ahead
Read 2 John 7-9. How does John describe the deceivers in the world?“They’ve gone out into it.”“In the world there are many deceivers” What does John tell us to specifically watch out for? “that we do not lose what we have worked for” What is the positive part of his warning? “that we may (instead)Continue reading “from Rachel: Don’t Run Ahead”
Staying Put… or Not
Dearest Rachel – Eight a.m., and we’re eating breakfast overlooking the enormous (compared to most of our other stops, including Tokyo; the roof is even with the level of the upper-deck cafe) station at the Kobe harbor. We’re going to be here until five in the evening tomorrow. Well, ‘we’ as in the passengers onContinue reading “Staying Put… or Not”
from Rachel: Water, Blood, and Spirit
By what two ways did Jesus come? “water” and “blood” According to Matthew 3:1-2,4-6,11, what act of the heart accompanied those who were being baptized? “repentance” Who descended upon Jesus after His baptism (see Matthew 3:13-17)? “The Spirit of God (like a dove)” Since Jesus was sinless, what reason did He give for being baptized?Continue reading “from Rachel: Water, Blood, and Spirit”
from Rachel: When Things Change
What else did these deceivers deny about Jesus (see 2 John 7)? “That He came in the flesh.” True/False: John and his community departed from the false teachers (v.19) “Not exactly; the false teachers departed from them. So I guess – false.” While some rejected His divinity, others denied He had come in the flesh…Continue reading “from Rachel: When Things Change”
Topics You’re Not to Talk About
Dearest Rachel – There are days when you hear me complaining about a lack of topics to talk to you about. Maybe nothing particularly notable happened (or is expected to happen) that day to fill you in on, or I’ve just crammed my head with a few hours of mindless entertainment while the boys hangContinue reading “Topics You’re Not to Talk About”
As Normal as the Sky
Dearest Rachel – For all that is said between us as we walk through Harms Wood, the conversations that I have with Lars are generally like whatever happens proverbially in Vegas; everything is meant to stay there, not to be repeated. But when the topic turns to the relationship you and I had – andContinue reading “As Normal as the Sky”
Talking Myself Down
Dearest Rachel – So. After two months since the last time, I’m on my way back to the local mega church for their monthly singles get together. This time, I’ll actually be able to meet Lisa, the woman who got me set up, both in terms of registering and doing a bit of volunteer workContinue reading “Talking Myself Down”
from Rachel: Speaking Hope to Your Soul
What’s the most significant thing you “recognized” about your self-talk so far? “I hadn’t realized how often I call myself names.” What lie or lies have been the toughest to “refuse?” “Klutz” Which lies have you “relabeled” with truth? Lie: “Klutz” – Truth: “Beloved child of God”Lie: “all three faulty assumptions on page 45” –Continue reading “from Rachel: Speaking Hope to Your Soul”
Calm Amid the Chaos
Dearest Rachel – Since thus far, we really haven’t had the time for shopping, it would seem that merchants have decided to come to us. I mentioned about Junior plugging tattoos yesterday; today, we had a guy aboard the bus, shilling personalized necklaces and rings. I’m not gonna lie, I was briefly tempted to getContinue reading “Calm Amid the Chaos”
By the Waters of Jordan and Galilee
Dearest Rachel – For the third time in my life, I’m here at Yardenit – the banks of the Jordan. Junior asks me if I’m going in, and I respond in the negative. I’ve already been, after all – there’s no need to be baptized twice. Indeed, you’ll recall that neither of us had beenContinue reading “By the Waters of Jordan and Galilee”
from Rachel: Fortifying Your Thought Closet
What did Jesus tell his disciples (Matthew 26:41)? Why? “Watch and pray – to avoid falling into temptation” Seriously, do you recognize your temptation trouble spots? “Yes” What are they? “Too much gaming, especially after midnight, but in the daytime and evening as well; too much TV – more that I want to watch thanContinue reading “from Rachel: Fortifying Your Thought Closet”
Itching Ears
Because the time will come when people will not ·listen to [put up with; endure] the ·true [sound; healthy] teaching but will ·find many more [gather around themselves; accumulate] teachers who ·please them [meet their needs/desires] by saying the things ·they want to hear [their ears itch for]. 2 Timothy 4:3, Expanded Bible Dearest RachelContinue reading “Itching Ears”
from Rachel: Made for a Mission
Question to consider: What fears have kept me from fulfilling the mission God made me to accomplish? What keeps me from telling others the Good News? “5/25 “My fears when I consider discussing my faith start with a panicky nervousness that makes my throat feel tight like I may not be able to speak atContinue reading “from Rachel: Made for a Mission”
The Bitter Taste of Flavor-Aid
Dearest Rachel – I mentioned that the story of my conversion is ridiculously unremarkable; in comparison, it seems like almost everyone I know at church has a turnaround moment in their life that is leagues more dramatic than mine. Even you, while brought up in the church so as to have a faith-based anchor inContinue reading “The Bitter Taste of Flavor-Aid”
Aniki no Yuutsu
Dearest Rachel – So, yesterday morning, as part of the Sunday service, our worship pastor, Jansen, was ordained. It’s something of a requirement for pastoral staff and elders (as you well know, since I went through the same theological training in those last few years before your accident, although I wasn’t required to write aContinue reading “Aniki no Yuutsu”
Letters to Rachel 