Swilor Family: January 2013

Tuesday, January 29, 2013

Week 3 Question

Welcome to Week 3!

We're all at different places in our walks with God. Some of us new Christians, some of us are more mature. Just like God made Jesus stronger and wiser, He gives us strength and wisdom as our relationship with Him grows.

This week what are some ways can we encourage baby Christians (or unbelievers)? And how can we become more wise through more mature Christians?

So blessed by a group of ladies in different seasons of life to learn from!

We can encourage anyone by leading by example. People see that as Christians we are different. We make different choices. By not being ashamed of being different. One way I have been encouraged by more mature Christians is when they aren't afraid to say it's hard. That we all struggle. Then to be able to see them lean on God to help them through. So good to see that I'm not alone and examples of how to handle situations in ways that honor God, even when it's not the easiest way.

There is a lady that has been to church the past few weeks. The first week I saw her, she sat across from me with 2 little ones (a 2 year old and a 9 month old). They were both being noisy and I was totally feeling for her as I have 2 "babies" close in age. I can not imagine trying to get through a sermon with both of them with me! I wasn't the only one that felt for her. It was out of my comfort zone, but God led me (and a few other moms) to reach out to her after service. The next 2 weeks she has come and sat by me. Her baby has lasted both times all through nursery and her 2 year old has sat with her much more quietly. I can't imagine the struggle of coming to church with 2 babies by myself! I don't know her situation or if she is a believer (I think she is), but how encouraging would it be to have others lifting her up after a hard time. I'm thankful God used me and thankful that she didn't give up and has come back!

I am so blessed to have friends more mature in their walks with God! I am so thankful to be able to seek advice from them. I realize how important it is to have someone to go to for advice and encouragement. I am blessed to be able to meet with them and can't get enough of their wisdom! I need to surround myself with friends that know and love God. And not only to let them fill me up, but be ready and willing to fill others up!

For you "old" ladies (I'm only saying that, because you said it first!), I read this in my Women's Devotional Bible and meant to add it when I sent the question. "Older women can easily feel marginalized-- as if their days of usefulness are past. Yet Scripture reminds us that God reserves some of his most significant assignments to women who have attained the maturity to handle them-- like Anna the prophetess... Age and gender present no barrier when God entrusts us with a divine message or mission."

I'm thankful to have you all as a part of this group to learn from! Your maturity and wisdom is such a blessing to me!

Week 3 Tuesday

S- Luke 3:8-9 "Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. And do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham. The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.”"

O- John is teaching the people to produce fruit that shows that they have turned from their sin. Judgment will come. If we haven't turned from our sin, are we really trusting Jesus? When we repent and put our faith in Jesus, He changes us. Because we are filled we the Holy Spirit, we are thankful for Jesus' sacrifice and want to obey God. I saw this quote the other day, "When you fall in love with Jesus, you will fall out of love with sin."

A- I'm so thankful that I am filled with the Holy Spirit. Am I always saying no to sin? Nope, but I want to obey God more. I am more aware of my sin, since becoming a Christian. I see so clearly why I need Jesus. My sin is more hurtful to me, because I see that it's because of me that Jesus had to die. Ick!

P- Dear God, Thank you so much for forgiving all of my sins! I'm so sorry that I continually sin against you in my actions, thoughts, and words daily. Thank you for showing me why I personally need Jesus! Please use me to share your good news. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Week 3 Monday

S- Luke 3:5-6 "Every valley shall be filled in, every mountain and hill made low. The crooked roads shall become straight, the rough ways smooth. And all people will see God’s salvation.’”'

O- I sort of struggled to understand what these verses meant. So, I pulled out my study Bible and it is much more clear! And I actually understood it more than I thought. Before a king made a journey, the roads were improved. Preparation for Jesus was made in a spiritual and moral way by John's ministry, which focused on repentance and forgiveness of sin and the need for a Savior. Salvation was made known to ALL people.

A- Jesus makes our paths straight. "In all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3:6. He forgives our sin. And he paid the penalty for us. Through Jesus we have salvation. Salvation is available to all who repent and put their faith in Jesus!

P- Thank you Jesus that I can trust you even when I don't understand. Thank you that you make my paths straight. Thank you that I can lean on you when things get bumpy. Thank you for my salvation through you. You are perfect. In your name I pray, Amen.

Friday, January 25, 2013

Week 2 Friday

S- Luke 2:51-52 "Then he went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. But his mother treasured all these things in her heart. And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man."

O- Jesus obeyed his father and mother, just as we are commanded to do. "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise— “so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” Ephesians 6:1-3 Jesus continued to grow wiser and stronger. He became more pleasing to God and man.

A- Can you imagine your kids ALWAYS obeying you? How pleasing that would be? Jesus never once disobeyed his parents. He never once sinned. Never even thought a sinful thought. Wow! God was pleased with Jesus and so was man.

P- Dear God, please help us to live like you. Help us to be obedient to you. Help us to raise our kids to be obedient, not for us but for you. Please help us to keep our focus on obeying you as we raise up our children for you. I pray that their hearts would be on fire for you. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Week 2 Thursday

S- Luke 2:40 "And the child grew and became strong; he was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was on him."

O- Jesus grew strong and wise. The grace of God was on him.

A- It's crazy to think of Jesus as a boy. Can you imagine raising your Lord, the one who would save you? Talk about overwhelming just to think about! The grace of God was on Him. I love that God uses all of us right where we are. I was thinking how I stay at home most of the time (we share a car). It's just me and the kiddos. God is using me to teach them. I need to remember that He is using me right where I am and to share the Gospel with those that are with me. What a blessing that I get to be the one to sow seeds for my own kids.

P- Dear God, thank you for using me right here. In my own home, with my own kids. I pray that I will take the opportunity to share with them often. To point things to you throughout our day. To show praise and pray with them continually. Use me in my home and in this world as you wish. Thank you that Jesus was just a boy. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen!

Wednesday, January 23, 2013

Week 2 Blessings

Blessings

That my Mom was totally and completely surprised at her 50th Surprise Birthday Party we threw her last weekend. She is still trying to figure out how she was so clueless. Her reaction couldn't have been better. And she could not wipe the smile of her face all day! The pictures are priceless!

I prayed and prayed for the perfect amount of people to show up at her party. We didn't want to leave anyone out, but I didn't want there to be too many people in the clubhouse. And didn't want it to just be us. All of her siblings showed up (one was not going to be able to make it and called an hour before the party and was on her way!), her parents, both of my sisters and our families, and her best friend. It was perfect! Direct answer to prayer!

We took advantage of the group and took pictures of her with everyone. So much fun!

Being reminded by how blessed I am to have such a loving husband. Thank you God that he loves you first and because of that he loves me and Zac and Lucy so much better. He takes such good care of us and is very respectful to us. I am so blessed by him!

Week 2 Wednesday

S- Luke 2:30-32 "For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.”

O- Simeon sees salvation in Jesus. Jesus saves ALL, Gentiles and Jews.

A- This baby came to save. He is our Savior! He came to save ALL of us if we put our faith in Him and repent. It is simply that easy. He has already done His part and is waiting for the rest of us to open our hearts to Him.

P- Dear God, thank you for saving me! I pray that I would not hold back what I know. That Jesus came to save! Not just me, but everyone! I pray that you would use me to share the good news. Thank you for making it so simple! In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Week 2 Tuesday

S- Luke 2:20 "The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told."

O- The prophesy that was given to the shepherds by the angels was fulfilled. They glorified and praised God!

A- It's amazing to see God's glory as He fulfills prophesy. He proves that He is always faithful. He deserves all glory and praise.

P- Thank you God that we are able to see prophesy fulfilled throughout the Bible. Thank you for your promises. Thank you for so many miracles in the Bible and in our lives. All good things come from you. You are so good to me.

Week 2 Monday

S- Luke 2:7 "and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them."

O- Our Lord was born in a stable. He didn't even have a bed. He slept with the animals.

A- It's hard to believe that God came into this world as a baby. He experienced all that we have and yet did not sin even once. He did it all for us. Because He loves us so much.

P- Thank you God for showing us your love through the birth of Jesus. He came with nothing. You are so mighty like a lion and yet gentle like a lamb. Thank you for being all I need. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Week 2 Question

Welcome to Week 2! Let's keep our focus on Jesus!

We all know someone who is an unbeliever. How can we share God's love for us with them?

What is something you can do this week either as a random act of kindness, tell someone about Jesus (whether a character quality, His love for us, or share the Gospel), pray with, or encourage an unbeliever?

I challenge you to put into action one of the ideas you or another group member comes up with! Let's encourage each other to be more like Jesus today than we were yesterday!

I'm looking forward to hearing your ideas! And to spending another week studying with you!

God has really been using me to speak to a good friend of mine whose marriage is struggling. I have been able to point her to the Bible many times. It has been a huge learning experience for me as I have had to do research myself, because I haven't been sure what the Biblical thing to do in her circumstance is. I don't want to give worldly advice and tell her the easy way out. I'm learning more of God's word and leading her to that at the same time. Praise God she has been totally open to it and keeps coming back for more!

I have been more aware of times to give Praise to God in casual conversation. Humbling myself and not taking all the credit, but pointing to God's love and grace.

I agree that social media is an easy place for me to share about Jesus. Whether a verse or something that we do different than most of this world and why. Such as making Christmas about Jesus rather than Santa, posting our Jesus birthday party, etc. I have made it a point to only post uplifting things there. That is what I want to read, not about someone else's drama or poor me stories. I want to be a light, not a downer. Although, it is important also to show that God is there even in hard situations.

Saturday, January 19, 2013

Week 1 Friday

S- Luke 1:74-79 "to rescue us from the hand of our enemies, and to enable us to serve him without fear in holiness and righteousness before him all our days. And you, my child, will be called a prophet of the Most High; for you will go on before the Lord to prepare the way for him, to give his people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins, because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace.”"

O- God promised to rescue us from our enemies so that we could serve him without fear! John would prepare the way for Jesus. He would share the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins, because of God's tender mercy. God shines light on those living in darkness. He leads us to peace.

A- Amazing verses! We don't need to fear serving Him. I like how it says "to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death". It made me think of before I was saved that there was a darkness. We did live in the shadow of death. I used to have a fear of death. Not knowing what was to come. Since I have been saved, I have no fear of death. I know where I am going and CAN NOT wait to meet Jesus in Heaven! I see light. I have peace and hope!

P- Thank you God for forgiving me and sending Jesus to pay my debt! Thank you for showing me my sin. Thank you for changing me. Thank you for making me want to live like Jesus. Thank you for knowing that I couldn't live a life that would be honorable enough to earn my way to Heaven. Thank you that you made a way anyway. Thank you for your mercy and grace. Thank you for Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. Thank you that He was resurrected and is alive! Thank you for making a place for me in Heaven! In Jesus' name I pray, Amen!

Week 1 Prayer Requests and Praise

Please let us know how we can pray for you. Also, feel free to share praise!

We made it through the first week! Praise Him! Praying that we continue to be excited as we study Luke together!

Please pray that I would be more gentle. Gentle in my words and actions, especially to my husband and kids.

Praise God that we have studied one chapter in His Bible! That together we are growing closer to God and filling our hearts with truth. I pray that He would overflow from us.

Thursday, January 17, 2013

Testimony

It's my favorite day of the study! Please share how you came to know Christ! If you have done the study before and want to copy and paste your previous post that is great. Let's just add a little testimony of how God has drawn us closer to Him and shown us just how faithful He is, whether early in our walk with Him or recently! Ready, go!

I have copy and pasted my testimony from the last study, but will share an experience about how God has shown how faithful is. He always is.

I remember working a job I really, really disliked. I would cry in my car on the way to work and just dreaded everything about it. I had applied and interviewed and done everything that I could do to find a new job. I remember praying in my car after work one day. I told God that I was done! I told Him I was so frustrated and was giving it all to Him. I told Him I couldn't do it on my own and that I needed Him. I put my trust in Him. I stopped worrying about finding a job instantly. I had peace! I got a job offer within a couple of days! My trust has been in Him ever since. That is when I first remember trusting God completely. It was just a couple of months later that we go invited to church and everything fell into place.

Since this experience my stress and anxiety level has dropped incredibly! I know that God knows best. He has my back! I know it's not always going to be easy, but I know that He works things out for His glory and that is good! No matter what! I needed to stop trying to make things happen on my own and leave it in God's hand. Trust!

Here is my testimony I shared before...

Growing up, most of my extended family and my friends were LDS. I was baptized when I was 8 in an LDS church. I remember going to church, but not consistently. I remember not feeling like I fit in with my friends and family as far as a church/religious setting. I don't have a memory of why I was baptized, besides knowing that being baptized is what you do when you turn 8. And having family being very excited about it.

I have a memory of a friend telling me when we were little that I wouldn't be with my family in heaven, because we weren't sealed in the temple as a family. That memory stands out to me. I remember thinking, "I don't believe God would separate my family for not being "sealed together". We were just kids and I don't know the exact details of temple sealings in the LDS church. I'm stating this, because I remember having doubts about this church at a young age. Later some things about this church troubled me. I didn't agree with temple marriage and wondered who would I marry, because I didn't want to be married in one of these temples and the friends I had would only be married in the temple. I didn't understand getting married and my own parents couldn't attend, because they weren't "temple worthy". These are just some of the doubts that I had. I remember thinking there had to be something different. I did not know about any other churches/religions. I grew up in a very small town and my friends either were or were not Mormon.

My mom got remarried and my step-dad was Christian. She became a Christian and took me to church with her a few times. She bought me Christian CD's and WWJD bracelets. She gave me a Bible (that I never read). I remember thinking it was all so weird. So different. I thought being a Christian meant believing in God. I didn't know who this God was, but thought "Well I believe in God" and called myself a Christian. I thought I knew so much. Ha!

Later a friend started asking me questions about being a Christian and I answered her the best I could. Somehow, my answers maybe gave her confidence to join some friends at The Rock (or maybe she already had gone and was questioning it all). She eventually invited me to The Rock to listen to her boyfriend playing in the band. Luke and I went and listened just months after we were married. We liked the church and haven't stopped going. The next couple times we were there I remember hearing the same verse during announcements. Ephesians 2:8-9 "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast." It was just what I knew in my heart all along. It was that simple. Hearing that verse solidified it for me. It is by the grace of God I am saved, not by works! It is not what I can do!

I was baptized. This time I knew why I was being baptized. Not to earn anything. Not because it will get me a step closer to heaven. Simply to show the world that I am living my life for Jesus. As an outward display of my love for Him. I love Jesus!

Since, I have learned more and more about who God is. I don't want to just believe in God. I want to know who God is. I want to be like Him. I know that I am so far from being good enough. The more I know who He is, the more I know why I need Him. I am so unworthy of His grace. So unworthy to be able to be with him in heaven. But, He made it possible by coming to earth as a man and living a perfect life to pay for my sins. He made a way! He is THE WAY!

Week 1 Thursday

S- Luke 1:63-64 "He asked for a writing tablet, and to everyone’s astonishment he wrote, “His name is John.” Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue set free, and he began to speak, praising God."

O- God spoke through both of John's parents as they named him John. When Zechariah could speak, he first praised God!

A- Am I quick to praise God? Do I thank him first or does it take time for me to realize that my blessings are from God? God deserves thanks first for all things!

P- Dear God, thank you for speaking to us and through us. Thank you for personal experiences that I know it was you using me to share what you wanted heard. There have been times I have had conversations that I know it was not me that thought the things that came out of my mouth to share your truth. Thank you for using me. I pray that you will use me to share the gospel. Please help me to give thanks and praise where they are due. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen!

Week 1 Wednesday

S- Luke 1:45-50 "Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!” And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed for the Mighty One has done great things for me—holy is his name. His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation."

O- Mary gives all glory to God. Elizabeth is saying that Mary is blessed for believing. Mary does not boast, but praises God! Her soul glorifies and her spirit rejoices! She is saying generations will call her blessed, and follows that with "holy is his name." She is giving credit to God who has blessed her.

A- Praise God! Rejoice! Give all glory to God who all good things come from! Do not boast! I am blessed to say that I have great friends who are quick to give glory to God. What great examples to me! I want to be quicker to thank God aloud and not just silently in my prayers.

P- Dear God, thank you again for Mary's humble example. I pray that I would learn from her and put into action giving you glory. Please help me to realize that ALL good things come from you! Please help me to be quick to give thanks to you as you so deserve! I pray that I would not hold my tongue or keep you a secret. My happiness comes from you! Thank you!

Week 1 Blessings

I am blessed!

By time spent with my mom and my sister, Mandy, staying up way too late laughing at old pictures. Man, did we have some ugly outfits!

By conversation filled with talk of God/prayer/faith that I never would have expected us to have, as we share different beliefs. Thank you God for opening doors and filling our conversation with your love. I pray that we continue to talk about you and listen with open hearts and investigate truth on our own.

By a swimming date with just Zac and Mandy and Quinn. Zac and Quinn are just a few months apart and best friends. We don't live close so we take advantage of our time together! It was fun just taking our oldest 2 kiddos to the pool! Although, Zac was quite nervous the first little bit. He kept saying/crying, "It's too wet!"

By a get together tonight with a couple of friends from high school that I haven't seen in a long time. It's always fun to catch up and laugh at memories we made growing up.

By spending evenings together with Luke after the kids go to bed, whether we are chatting, watching a show together, or doing our own thing and just being in the same room together.

By learning more about each of you! Some of you are new and I haven't talked to in a long time, some of you I've never actually met, some are good friends that have done these studies with me. I love that each time I learn something new about each of you!

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

Week 1 Tuesday

S- Luke 1:37-38 "For no word from God will ever fail.” “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her."

O- Mary's faith is incredible! Although "Mary was greatly troubled at his words" (verse 29) she trusted God. Can you imagine being told you were going to have a baby... and were a virgin? WHAT? And she trusted! Can you imagine what other people would think? What her fiance would think? And to be told, "So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God." (verse 35). And she trusted! "For no word from God will ever fail."

A- I can trust God. His word will never fail. I need to follow His lead without question or doubt. He never falls through on His promises. And he promises that His plans for me are not to harm me. "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11.

P- Dear God, I pray that I would always trust you completely. That I would not fear or doubt. I pray that I would have faith like Mary. Thank you for her example. Thank you for your many promises that you always fulfill. Thank you that you are God and that you are perfect. Thank you that you know my needs better than even myself. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen!

Goals

The ebook suggests setting 3 goals that you would like to focus on through this study. I would love for you to share your goals, so that we can encourage each other throughout the session.

1- To lead this group faithfully. To be encouraging and more personal with each of you. I feel like the last couple of studies, I didn't follow through with some things I wish I had and didn't encourage as much as I could have.

2- To grow closer to God. To know Him better. To build my relationship with Him.

3- To die to myself more daily. To want more of Jesus and less of this messed up world. To be confident in being different than what is "in/normal/cool". To live like Jesus no matter how uncomfortable. To follow His example. At the same time not be discouraged that I have so far to go, but embrace how far I have come!

Monday, January 14, 2013

Week 1 Monday

S- Luke 1:1-4 "Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us, just as they were handed down to us by those who from the first were eyewitnesses and servants of the word. With this in mind, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, I too decided to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught."

O- Luke is letting us know that the accounts he is sharing with us in his book are true. That he has carefully investigated these things and given us an orderly report.

A- It is important to carefully investigate things/words that are handed down to us. It reminds me that not everything we hear is truth and we need to look into things on our own. Specifically to back things up by Biblical scripture, which is the true word of God. 2 Timothy 3:16 "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness."

P- Dear God, Thank you so much for this study and each of the ladies that have joined me in studying the book of Luke. Thank you for Luke's introduction that he tells us that he has carefully investigated the accounts he is about to share with us, so that we know that it is true. Thank you for his example in investigating truth in things that are handed down to us. Please help us to not just trust what we hear, but seek truth on our own through studying our Bibles and praying to you. Please lead us as we are eager to know you better. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen!

I challenge you to do your SOAP journal before reading any other posts. Sometimes this is hard for me when I don't really understand the verses. However, it helps me to focus and really study the verses and not be swayed by another ladies thoughts. I often am praying for God to make the verses clear and to teach me through His word. I love reading what God teaches each of us through the very same verse! I learn so much more than reading/studying alone!

Getting to Know You

Let's get to know each other a bit! You'll notice that I will often post things the night before. I do this so that those of you early birds will have each day's message first thing.

The first week I will ask a few getting to know you questions. Throughout the study, on Monday's I will ask a question to keep conversation flowing. Wednesday's we will share how God is blessing us. Friday's we will share prayer requests and praise. Please feel free to share anytime throughout the week as well.

1- Your Name, Spouse's Name, Kids Names and Ages

Nicki, Luke, Zac is 2, Lucy is 16 months. They are 13 months apart and best friends!

2- What is something that happened in the past week that made your heart happy?

Seeing that God has placed new friends in this group to study with me has my heart pretty happy tonight!
Reuniting with a high school friend that just moved back to town and seeing what a great Mama she is to her 2 sweet boys. Being able to talk about God with her is something I would have never imagined we would be doing. God is so good in how He works in our lives!

3- What areas do you struggle to "Live Like Jesus"?

Getting frustrated easily!

4- In what ways has God changed you to be more like Jesus in your walk with Him?

Being more selfless. Realizing that less is more. Getting my priorities straight, God first! Submitting to my husband and letting him lead our marriage and family. And so much more! And He never stops changing me to be more like Jesus! I have so much more to learn.

5- What do you feel like God is teaching you recently? Is there a verse that comes to mind often? A lesson or virtue? For example, patience, love, grace, gentleness, etc.I feel like God is teaching me to love more.

To love when it's difficult. To love my neighbor (literally). We have a difficult neighbor and I know that they are there for a reason. God has taught me to stop being so frustrated with them and just love them. It was a hard lesson, but there is so much more peace now that I don't let them get under my skin. I have changed my attitude to love and serve them and see it as a way to show them God's love. I need to always remember that we are ALL wretched sinners in God's eyes and I am no better than anyone else! Thank you Jesus for your sacrifice for me. Thank you for making my sins clean when you died on the cross for me!

Luke Study Invite, Welcome to the Luke Study

Sunday, January 13, 2013

Welcome to the Luke Study!

Welcome Ladies!

I'm so excited to start this study with you! I look forward to learning from each of you. God is so good in how he teaches me so much through these online studies through the group he puts together each session. I can't wait to learn to Live Like Jesus this winter!

I will be starting a Yahoo Group and adding each of you to join. This made it so much easier to keep all the Study emails in one place. If anyone joins the group late, then all of the emails we have sent are archived and don't need to be sent to each new member one at a time. Huge time saver! And so nice that we don't each have to add/remove members to a contact list. Please join the Yahoo Group when you receive the invite. If you have any questions let me know!

Subscribe to the GoodMorningGirls.org blog HERE. Once you are subscribed, you will receive emails from them with blog posts that go along with the study. They are very encouraging to read as you do the study. Occasionally I will post highlights from the blog, but I recommend reading the posts as different things will be meaningful to each of us. At the bottom of each email is a link to download the free eBook. If you don't get this soon and would like me to send you a pdf copy I can do that. (Especially since I was later than I wanted to be sending this email out asking you to subscribe.)

Here is what works for me doing an online study.

I will be reading the verses out of my Bible at breakfast with my kids. They LOVE when we finish reading their Bible and get to read out of Mom's Bible. I'll take it! Some great advice I once heard was to fill up on God's word at the table. This has totally worked for us. My kids are still in high chairs and are totally focused at breakfast. I will likely read my verses at breakfast and then at nap time send out my daily email to you.

It is convenient for me to read my verses from www.biblegateway.com. I will copy and paste the verses into my email and do my SOAP journal as an email. This worked for me because everything is saved in my email and I didn't have to hand write in a journal and then type it all out in an email to each of you. I also love Bible Gateway because I can choose 2 different Bible versions and click "Parallel" and read them side by side. I choose NIV and NIrV (the kid's simplified version). This often makes things much easier to understand for me.

This study uses the SOAP journal method. If you aren't familiar with the SOAP journal, here is a link that will explain it for you. http://www.soapstudy.com/index.php You can also use the site to post your own SOAP's if you chose to do so. Some of the girls in our previous groups did the study each day, but were only able to email the group occasionally.

I am asking that you please email the group once a week, hopefully more. I understand if you miss a week (Things especially tend to slow down towards the end of the group. I am so guilty of doing this in the past!), but please don't be discouraged that you have slacked for whatever reason that you don't pick up the next week! We would all love to see everyone involved as much as possible! I know that we will all learn from each other and each of us will be a huge tool for God in learning His word! Since I am the leader, I have made it my own personal goal to do my SOAP's daily. I did miss a couple days last study, but made up for them the next day (or so). I would have probably used the website to save my SOAP journal's had I not shared daily. Just to have my journals saved somewhere. Some of the group preferred to hand write their journal entries, which is super awesome. I just don't have the time to do both!

The first week of the study is always the most exciting and you will likely see a lot of emails. Things will slow down as we get going. I'm so excited to learn from each of you! The Study starts tomorrow! If you have any friends that would like to join, please send me their email and I will add them to the Yahoo Group!

From today's Good Morning Girls blog post. Just some quick instructions if you have never done the studies or subscribed to the blog.

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Luke Study Invite

Monday, January 7, 2013

Luke Study Invite

I'm not really one for New Year's Resolutions. I used to make this long list of goals and a week later it just sat there or got lost in a stack of other lists. This year I have one goal.

My goal for 2013 is to know God better.

You have likely received an invite to do a study with me before. Some of you have done these awesome Bible Studies with me. I can't tell you enough how much I love studying this way. I am encouraged to read a few Bible verses each day and share through email what God has taught me through my reading. And the best part is that I get to read what God is teaching you, which makes me learn so much more than I would just reading through my Bible on my own.

I would love for you to join me this winter in studying the book of Luke 1-8. The study is called "Living Like Jesus: Leaving our comforts and walking in faith". Yes, please! I can't wait.

The Study starts in one week! January 14th - March 8th Here is what is provided by GoodMorningGirls.org.

What we provide: (FREE)

SOAP Bible reading plan (we also call it a bookmark because we print it off and leave it in our Bibles to mark where we are reading)
Living Like Jesus: Luke 1-8 eBook for you to journal and record your S.O.A.P. quiet times
weekly videos that provide further understanding and personal application
weekly blog posts on Mondays, Wednesday and Fridays to help you dig into the scripture of the week and gain better insight and application.
challenges aimed at helping you put God’s Word into action in your life.

Let me know if you would like to join and I will add you to the group! Friends are invited. All I need is their name and email address! You are also welcome to do the Study on your own or lead your own group. All the information you need can be found at GoodMorningGirls.org.

Seeking Him more in 2013!

Nicki