Hello!
What we will be covering this week:
Topic 1, Page 2, starting with Psalm 23:5 to page 5, Isaiah 55:10-11. We will be focussing on the verses in bold print.
Discussion time: Paul’s thorn and ???
Reminders: To keep things orderly, we will read the Bible verses by going around the table, please knock or tap the table if you prefer not read on any given night. No explanation ever is required. You are fully participating just by coming and listening.
I am noticing over the last week, we are all getting more comfortable with each other. Just a little reminder to RESIST the urge to correct one another’s doctrine or answers. The more we get to know one another, the harder this one gets. The Holy Spirit will sort us all out over time.
Again, wow, I just want to say thank you for the grace and mercy shown by all as we have talked about 2 really tough questions already. Of course, non of us have perfect theology. Continue to be Berean and hear the truth for yourself by going back to the Word.
Summary of practical suggestions :
This is part of “our part” of working out our salvation with fear and trembling daily.(See Philippians 2:12) Be so encouraged, as you are faithful in the small things, He will mutliply all things for you. Blessings.
- Commit to setting apart a daily time to “feed on” Gods Word and aim to meditate on one or two things that God has revealed to you. Think of the reading part as the actual eating and the meditating part as the digesting part. To get the full benefit we need to do both. It is so encouraging to know that even if we don’t feel like we are getting it, the Word itself is working in us and is washing us and equipping us.
- Keep a praise and thanksgiving journal so that if you hit a low or challenging time you can look back and be reminded and encouraged by God’s faithfulness in the past.
- Crucifying the flesh: Deny yourself, pick up your cross and walk as Jesus walked. Truly to be His disciple, the flesh must lose it’s power over us. I believe this is the major source of the “wet blankets” of fear, doubt and unbelief that cover and smothers our faith.
Healing and Discipleship 
I am definitely finding that by starting my day with meditation and prayer sets a positive tone for the day. I have found for me that 9 am to 11 am is a good time for my Bible Study and then more meditation and prayer. My gratitude journal is also done in the first part of the morning on reflecting on the previous day. This is just how I do it and everyone needs to find the time and schedule that fits their lifestyle. The Word has just become so real to me through this study and I look forward to every morning and my time eating and digesting the Word. PTL!
Sorry but I may have already left a comment as I am trying to get into this.
I have found that devoting the first part of my morning (around 6:30) to meditation and prayer has really set a great start to the day for me. I can do anything THROUGH CHRIST WHO STRENGTHENS ME! I then go and do my Gratitude Journal reflecting on the previous day. I always ask during my prayer for the Lord to point out to me the obvious things to be thankful for that I may overlook. I then have grandchildren to get off to school so from 9 am to 11 am, I devote that time to do my homework and thus Bible Study time. I sooooo look forward to this time as the Word is just popping out at me and entering into my heart through this study. I feel truly Blessed to have this study at this time in my life for I can truly devote myself to doing this without interruption. I am so thankful for the healing that is taking place in me. Praise the Lord!