Kilgore First Church of the Nazarene

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We took a break from The Story for Veteran's Day and will pick it back up where we left off. Take this time to catch up on anything you've missed with The Story!

Here we go with chapter 8
When Your Mistakes Land You Before a Judge

It was my ninth grade year at Robert E. Lee Jr. High in San Angelo, Texas (Randy Frazee). My student council job was to broadcast the morning announcements. It was the first step in my dream of becoming an on-air personality. My team and I added a little spice to the traditionally droll morning litany of announcements.

For awhile things went fine. Then one day Amy Cassles had an idea. Instead of just reading off the list of birthdays, Amy wanted to sing the birthday song. It was my show and I gave her the go-ahead. We imagined our imaginary ratings soaring. But then, halfway through the song, Amy busted out laughing uncontrollably. 

At the end of our program there was dead silence.  Until our principal, Mr. Snodgrass, asked to see us.  A look of terror struck the eyes of my team. I know because their eyes were staring right at me. In a moment of extreme bravery on my part, I led the way into Mr. Snodgrass’ office. Mr. Snodgrass was a retired military commander and we felt like we were going before the judge in a court martial.

Judges elicit a sense of fear, don’t they? They never call you in for something you have done right. We think of them as someone who harshly tells us what we did wrong. And they seem to be everywhere these days on television. There’s Judge Judy and Hatchett. Mathis and Christina. And my favorite—Judge Brown. 

Then there are some judges you may not know. They even have a book in the Bible with their name on it.  Judges. These judges appeared on the scene to help sort out right and wrong. They also helped people get out of trouble.

God’s people kept putting themselves into a never ending cycle of disobedience, discipline, declaration of wrong, and deliverance. Judges like Deborah and Gideon and Samson helped them find their way back to God. 

What did the people do that was so bad they needed judges? Two things. First, they failed to put God first in their lives (Judges 1:28). And secondly, they did not teach their children to know God (Judges 2:10). These two “sins” led to their downfall and ruin.

Are you making the same mistakes they made? If so, you have a judge that can help you––Jesus.

The good news is that when he “calls” you into his office after you’ve messed up, you will look up to see your judge’s face and see your savior there.

Willing But Unqualified
Today’s reading: Break on page 86 through break on page 92
This reading covers: Judges 4-8
Summary: God shows himself strong when we allow him to work through us.
Consider this: Like so many of God’s heroes, Gideon, a simple farmer from a “weak clan” hardly seemed qualified. Yet, God chose Gideon for an important purpose. Take a moment to think about God’s purpose for your life. Can you identify with Gideon who asked for signs and proof before committing? Are there areas in your life where God is calling you to step out in faith?
For further reading: Proverbs 16:3; Isaiah 26:1-8; Mark 10:23-27; Hebrews 11
Prayer: God, today and every day use me for your purpose. Through your Spirit, give me confidence to know that with your help I can accomplish your goals. In Jesus name, I pray, Amen.

Strength Isn’t Everything
    Today’s reading: Break on page 92 through end of chapter
  This reading covers: Judges 13-16
  Summary: Although Samson was gifted by God, his heart was not fully devoted to him.
    Consider this: What is your overall impression of Samson? Although physically strong, how was he weak? We are told his strength came “from the Spirit of the Lord.” Yet it seems apparent God’s Spirit was absent in his heart. What can we learn from seeing the results of Samson’s sinful lifestyle? At the end, Samson was given his strength back resulting in the defeat of Israel’s enemy. What did Samson do to receive God’s help?
    For further reading: Romans 8:1-12; Ephesians 6:10-18
    Prayer: Holy Spirit, with your help, I put on the whole armor of God. Come, live in my heart so I may stay strong and live a life that glorifies you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

This week we start Chapter 7 / Face Your Battles with Strength and Courage 

When someone keeps telling you to “be strong and courageous,” you might suspect you are up against something big.  And the Israelites were. 

About to enter the land that had been promised them 600 years before, they had a giant-sized task awaiting them.  Literally.  Forty years earlier ten spies had come back and told the Israelites that the inhabitants of the land were so big they felt like they were the size of a grasshopper in comparison. Fear took them captive without a battle and sent them off as a group to wander around in a wilderness where they took their chances against wild animals rather than face their giants. 

They wandered so long that those who had grasshopper-sized faith died out. Forty years later their children were ready to take the land. They were physically no taller than their parents had been.  The enemies in the land were no smaller than before.  But the Israelites’ faith muscles had grown. 

There were two spies who had reported the land was theirs for the taking. One of them, Joshua, is now the Israelites’ leader.  He was courageous.  And God wanted to keep him that way. So God tells him three times in the first nine verses of the first chapter of Joshua: “Be strong and courageous.” He also reminds him “the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” 

My guess is you have a few giants in your life too. Some uphill battles that appear insurmountable.  A task demanding more than you think you have to give. One too many things on your “to do” list than you have the time or energy to do. Unemployment is staring you down. Depression has a grip on you.  Bills have raided your bank account and left it empty.  An illness hovers in your life like a threatening storm. You’d rather just run and wander.

 Instead, be strong and courageous.  You have a Joshua that will lead the way.  The New Testament equivalent of the name “Joshua” is “Jesus.”  And he has promised to be with you always (Matthew 28:20).

 Jesus knows how to lead you through battles. He had a few of his own while he was on this earth. Enemies attacking him with accusations (Mark 3:22). No home and no bed (Luke 9:58). Crowds and expectations pressing in on him (Luke 8:45). The religious establishment eventually insuring he was sentenced to a brutal death. (Mark 15:14). 

Yet he took on the most barbaric giant there is, death, and lived to tell about it. He can help you do the same. You need only be strong and courageous in your faith.  

Today’s reading: Page 73 through break on 75
This reading covers: Joshua 1-2
Summary: Rahab demonstrates that God is well-known for what he has done.
Consider this:The spies entered Jericho secretly and were hidden from the king by the prostitute Rahab. What other choices could Rahab have made regarding the spies? What was the risk she was taking by hiding them in her home?God had a reputation even in this pagan land. Rahab was aware of the mighty power of the Israelites’ God. She says, “… for the LORD your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below.” (Joshua 2:11) How did Rahab know about the God of the Israelites? What specific details did she know?How do people around you know you have a mighty God? What evidence of God do they see in your life? Based on what you tell others, do they respect and fear the mighty power of your God? Do they also know of his love? What can you do to help them see God as the Savior he is?
For further reading: 2 Corinthians 2:4-16
Prayer:Heavenly Father, you are mighty to save. Thank you for witnessing in the lives of Christians. Like the children of Israel long ago, will you make yourself known through me to those around me? In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Today’s reading: Break on page 81 through chapter
This reading covers: Joshua 23-24
Summary: Continual, absolute allegiance to God was needed to live in this new land.
Consider this: Joshua is about to die. He calls his people together and reviews where God has taken them and what God has done. Do you ever review your own history and let yourself be reminded of where God has taken you? It is good to remember the things God has taught you and recall the events that have built up your faith in years past. The more we build our faith, the stronger our faith is for the next trial.
     Living our lives is like living in the Promised Land. One trial after another will come our way. Just like the Israelites, we need complete allegiance to God in order to live the best way we can. End your time today pledging your allegiance to God. Take the time to read Joshua 24:15 as a further reading. Use the verse as your pledge of allegiance. Write your prayer out in your journal as a reminder of your pledge.
For further reading: Joshua 24:15
Prayer: Father God, today I pledge my allegiance to you. As for me and my household, we will serve you. I choose to love you first and to do my best to live the way you desire. Please help me with my questions and failures. You are my God, and there is no other. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Chapter 6: Decisions You Make Affect Those Traveling With You

Every parent has been there. The trip ahead is long.  The travel schedule is tight. You hit the road with a full tank, confident the plan you have crafted beats anything AAA could muster. But twenty minutes down the highway you hear a small, squeaky voice from the backseat.  The artillery begins to bombard you.

The questions.
Some you expected. Are we there yet? How much longer? Can we get something to eat?

The next barrage is unexpected. Who was the first person to decide to squeeze those things on a cow and drink whatever came out? Why does our dog get mad at us when we blow in his face but when we take him on a car ride he sticks his head out the window?

Every parent has been there. Questions from the backseat.  You come to expect them. Every journey to a destination includes them. The same is true for the journey of faith. 

Just like kids on a trip we get tired of the journey.  We want to know when we can stop.  We get tired of serving.  We get tired of waiting.  We get tired of the people we’re traveling with. 

And we grumble.  The Israelites did.  They complained about the food, about the place they were traveling, and about their ‘driver’ Moses.

Grumbling does not set well with God.  In fact, our grumbling can lead to our wandering.  When offered the chance to leave Kadesh and enter the Promised Land, the Israelites listened to the fear-filled report from ten spies instead of the faith-full report of Joshua and Caleb. 

Kadesh means “Spring of Decision” and it was time for one.  They were in the right place to make the right decision.  But the majority made the wrong one.  The people wished they had died in the desert.  So God told them they would get their wish.  They would wander until the unbelieving generation died out.

And they did.  They wandered in the Wilderness for forty years.  And their children were impacted by their decisions.

The decisions you make affect those around you, just like the decisions the Israelites made at Kadesh.  You can decide to grumble or be thankful.  You can decide to turn away from God or turn toward God.  You can decide to wander without purpose through life or follow God’s vision for your life.

Just don’t forget that those in the backseat will be affected by your decisions.

Today’s reading: Page 57 through break on page 59
This reading covers: Numbers 10-12
Summary: God’s people continually complain about their circumstances.
Consider this:The Israelites complained about the food, the journey, the lack of water. Miriam and Aaron complained about Moses and his Cushite wife. Now it is time to deal with your own complaints. Do they have to do with lack of possessions? Place of residence or work? Other people? Circumstances? What was God’s reaction to the Israelites’ complaints? What can you do to eliminate the complaints in your life?
For further reading: 1 Cor 10:1-12; Heb 13:5-6
Prayer:Thank you, Lord, for all you have given me: the blessings, because they are more than I ever could have imagined, and the afflictions, because they are less than I deserve. They have brought me closer to you.Whenever I start to complain, bring to my mind the example of the Israelites. Help me to be grateful in all situations and to bring honor to your name.

This reading covers: Numbers 13-25
Summary:God’s people refuse to enter Promised Land
Consider this:Sometimes we get ahead of God, as Abraham did when he decided to have a child with Hagar instead of waiting for the son God had promised through Sarah. Sometimes we lag behind God, like the Israelites did when they refused to enter the Promised Land because they were afraid. They chose to believe the negative report rather than the good news given by Joshua and Caleb. So, whether we get ahead of God or behind Him, the reason is still the same; lack of faith.Consider a time when you missed God’s blessing because you doubted his word. Perhaps you are standing at a crossroads right now. If God is calling you to move, what’s the delay?
For further reading: Hebrews 11
Prayer:Heavenly Father, help me to see the path you want me to take. Let me not move too quickly or too slowly, but show me how to be always in your will. Help me to step ahead with boldness. Increase my faith so that I will not doubt but will trust you with every step.

Today’s reading: Middle of page 67 through end 
This reading covers: Numbers 27 and Deut 1-34
Summary: Moses reminds the people of what is before them; the choice of life or death.
Consider this:Are you up to the challenge? As you stand at the threshold, can you step ahead with confidence? Can you envisionthe blessing that awaits you on the other side? One of God’s greatest reminders appears many times in Scripture.He focuses on the main reason we hesitate. Fear. He repeats over and over again in Scripture, “Fear not.”
For further reading: Num 14:1-9; Heb 10:35-39
Prayer:Heavenly Father, fear is my greatest enemy right now. It comes from within. That is where you must work — within me, to eliminate fear and to instill a boldness that will move me to obey you, no matter what the cost.Deal mercifully with me, Lord, as I choose to obey you. Pave the way. Make my paths straight. Grant me the assurance I need to continue on.

The Home God Wants for His Presence

It was perhaps the greatest opportunity ever. God tells Moses that he wants to come to his people and dwell right in the middle of their camp. Not on the outskirts. Not in the ‘burbs.  But right in the middle of where they were living.

You might wonder, “What preparations would a people need to make for God to live in their midst?” Would it be like getting ready for weekend guests or someone special coming to dinner? You feel compelled to make sure your home looks as good as possible. You want to make a good impression and you want your guest to feel welcome. 

God anticipated the question and told Moses what needed to be in place for his coming. First, he wanted to be close to them but there was the problem of sin that created a breach between them. So God provided Moses with instructions about the practice of sacrificing, offering a covering for the people’s indiscretions before a Holy God. Sin is serious stuff, not to be taken lightly, and the sacrifice of unblemished animals was necessary to give the people a picture of sin.

Second, he wanted to stay close to them.  Moses was given the blueprints for the building of the Tabernacle.  It’s a big word for “tent.”  A portable place of worship.  Kind of a mobile Motel 6.  And he wanted to camp out right in the middle of where they were camping.  God wanted to be close to his people.

But he also wanted them to be close to each other.  So he declared a third thing to get ready.  He gave them Ten Commandments concerning relationships.  The first four commandments focus on how we are to demonstrate our love to God.  The second set of six have to do with how to show love to other people.  In seeing these relationships of love it was God’s desire that people would come to know Him too.

Jesus said the same in John 13:34: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another. . . By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

God gave the Israelites guidelines so that, when they sought to live by them, other nations would see them as different and know that they were God’s people.  God gave us Jesus so that, when we live like him, others will know that we are his people. 

For those who know him, God took care of our sin through the sacrifice of Jesus.  He tabernacles in the hearts of those who have drawn near to him.  Could it be then that the degree to which we are obedient to him in this command to love each other is the degree of his presence we will find among us? It could be our greatest opportunity ever.

.

New Commands and a New Covenant
10 Commandments
Today’s reading: Pages 47-50
This reading covers: Exodus 19-31
Summary: God’s people respond to his ommandments.
Consider this: God has kept the Israelites through many tough times in Egypt and while escaping slavery. When God gives them his commandments, they respond in one voice saying, “Everything the Lord has said we will do.” In what ways has God kept you through tough times and struggles? Have you ever said to God, “Anything you say I will do?” In what ways have you followed God into the unknown like the Israelites into the desert?
For further reading: 1 Cor. 10:31; Col 3:17
Prayer: Lord, thank you for keeping me and sustaining me in tough times. I pray I will do anything you say and follow you into the unknown in the knowledge that you will protect me and bless me. In your name I pray, Amen.

Short-lived Commitment
Today’s reading: Page 51 through break on page 53
This reading covers: Exodus 32
Summary: The temporary nature of our commitment.
Consider this: Chapter 5 begins with God telling Moses to remind the people how he has kept them safe from Egypt and carried them “on eagles’ wings”. He says if they will keep his covenant they will be blessed. Why do you think the Israelites would continue to forget how God kept and protected them? Why would they have a tough time keeping his covenant? Why would they have the most difficult time keeping the first and second commandments with worshipping idols and other gods?
For further reading: Daniel 3:16-18; Isaiah 40:30-31; Psalm 61
Prayer:   Lord, please help me to sustain my commitment to you and not have it be short-lived. Please help me to keep your commandments and put nothing else before you. Help me to renew my strength and soar on wings like eagles. In your name, Amen.

God’s Presence
Today’s reading: Break on page 53 through chapter
This reading covers: Exodus 33-40
Summary: Moses expresses dependence upon the presence of God
Consider this: Moses proclaims God to be a “compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.”  Where have you seen God exhibit these qualities in your own life? Moses also talks about the “sin of the parents.” What do you think about your legacy to your children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren in terms of sin? Finally, Moses’ face is radiant because he has spoken with the Lord. After speaking with God, how has your life been changed? Can people see this change just as they could see Moses’ glowing face?
For further reading: Rom 5:6-8; 2 Cor 3:7-18
Prayer: Lord, thank you for your compassion and grace. Thank you for your love and faithfulness. Please take away my sin and help me to leave a legacy of righteousness to my children and grandchildren. Please have people see the radiance in my face after speaking to you. Please let them see the way you change me. Thank you, Lord. Amen.

There’s a wall in front of you.  Behind you is a past you are running from.  Beyond the wall awaits the promise of a new life.  But you’re not moving because there is this “wall.”  You feel trapped.  No way out.  This is just the sort of situation in which God does some of his finest work. 

You need only ask the Israelites.  Behind them was a life of back-breaking work and slavery.  Ahead of them was a life in the land of Promise.  Behind them was the fierce army of a fanatical Pharaoh coming towards them.  Ahead of them was a wall.  Their obstruction was made of water.

Your “wall” may be a fear of failure.  Or maybe it’s a lack of confidence that has grinded your progress to a halt.  Or it could merely be too many problems that have piled up in front of you at the same time. And you have no clue which one to tackle first. 

So you stopped.  And you aren’t sure if there is a way over, around, or under this imposing impediment. 

At this point many people panic.  Anxiety courses its way through the body, atrophies the movement muscles, and rigor mortis overtakes their resolve.  Eyes which once had clear focus now only focus on the wall just inches away.

But some look elsewhere.  The Israelites looked to Moses.  They began belting him with blame.  Have you done the same?    Blame the boss.  Blame a co-worker.  Blame your dog.  Blame God.  Maybe even blame yourself?   Blame all you want but the wall remains.

While the Israelites were body punching Moses, he opted to look elsewhere.  His options?  He could have looked at the enemy’s army.  He could have looked at the ungrateful people he led.  He could have looked at the wall of water spread out before him, sat down, and given up. 

Instead he looked to God.  And God opened an unlikely route through the wall of water.  Safely on the other side, the very wall that had halted their steps closed in on and covered the sources of their fears. 

The very name of the book where we find this story serves as a reminder when we face our “walls.”  “Exodus” is a compound Greek word meaning “the way out.”  And in case you might have missed it, the way out was not a better job, a different spouse, or a victim mentality.

No, the way out is God.  Next time you find yourself up against a wall try looking to him. 

Today’s reading: Pages 35-38
This reading covers: Exodus 1-4
Summary: God chooses an unwilling and unqualified leader in the person of Moses.
Consider this:
Because of his privileged Egyptian upbringing, Moses was not liked by the Hebrews. (Remember the response when he tried to defuse an argument between two workers: “Who made you ruler and judge over us?”) After committing murder, he was exiled from Egypt. By his own admission, he was a poor communicator. He hardly seemed a prime candidate to spearhead Israel’s deliverance. Yet God chose Moses.  What does that tell you about God’s ability to know a person’s true potential? What promise did God give Moses to bolster his self-confidence? (See Exodus 3:12) Have you ever felt unwilling or unqualified to serve or follow a calling from God? What promise does God give you?
For further reading: 1 Samuel 16:6-13; Isaiah 41:10-13; Acts 4:8-13; 1 Corinthians 12:4-12
Prayer: Holy Spirit, show me what you want me to do for your kingdom. Help me overcome my self-doubt. Give me confidence, knowing that you will be with me every step of the way. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.

 Today’s reading: Page 45 through end of chapter
This reading covers: Exodus 15-17
Summary: God meets our needs daily to keep us close to him.
Consider this: It seems as if the Israelites constantly worried about their future, doubting God would provide. Is that something you have trouble with as well? Each day the people gathered only enough manna for that day (except on the sixth day). What lesson was God trying to instill by not allowing them to stockpile? Think of your essential needs. Think of how God graciously provides them.
For further reading: Matthew 6:25-34
Prayer: Lord, thank you so much for providing everything I need here on earth. Help me never to take these gifts for granted or to worry about how you will supply them. Help me put my full trust in you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Today’s reading: Page 23 through the break on page 27
This reading covers: Genesis 37-41
Summary: Joseph demonstrates faithfulness to God regardless of circumstances.
Consider this: Think back on your life and any time you were in a struggle between faithfulness and sin. Was there a time when you chose specifically one way or the other? What were the circumstances? How did it turn out? Did the experience bring you closer to God? Or did it place a wedge between the two of you? Using circumstances as an opportunity to practice our faithfulness to God helps us to build a history of faithfulness over time. Turn this memory into an opportunity to learn from your experience. How would you handle that same decision today?
For further reading: Lamentations 3:22-24
Prayer: Father, thank you for proving your faithfulness to me every day. Help me to choose to be faithful to you, no matter my circumstances. Through the experiences in my life, may we create a history of faithfulness together. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Today’s reading: Break on page 27 through break on 33
This reading covers: Genesis 42-49
Summary: Though often behind the scenes, God provides for his people.
Consider this: How specific are your prayers? Do you write the scenes in your head and then direct God to do it your way? Has God ever completely surprised you with an answer to prayer so creative you knew you never would have thought of it? While we are worrying and fretting over the concerns of our day-to-day tasks, God is working behind the scenes to take care of our needs. We cannot always see what he is doing. What do you need today that you can give to Him? Is there a better way to word your requests so that your humility to God’s plan will be more evident? Will you consider inviting him to provide for you and give up your director’s chair?
For further reading: James 1:17, Philippians 4:6-7, 1 Corinthians 2:9
Prayer: Father I know you see the full picture of my life. I thank you that I can rest in the fact you always know  what is best. Please help me to give you my cares, and trust that you are working behind the scenes to take care of my needs in the best way. Help me, please, to trust you to provide whatever is needed in your way and in your time. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Today’s reading: Break on page 33 through end of chapter
This reading covers: Genesis 50
Summary: God is sovereign and is working out his plan.
Consider this: Do you have God on a shelf where you can reach him when you want him? Is he stuffed neatly in the closet where you can close the door to keep him from being heard at the wrong times? Or is God at the center of your life? Is he patiently knocking on the door of your heart, waiting for an invitation to begin his work in you, or is he in charge of every day? Are you enjoying and embracing his sovereignty in your life, or are you trying to tell him what to do? The Author of your story wants to write each chapter. He wants to watch your character develop in the image of his son. Are you willing to give him permission? God is in control. Will you rest in that?
For further reading: Romans 8:28, Jeremiah 29:11
Prayer: Almighty God, Loving Father, I am humbled by your majesty and might. I am humbled by your sovereignty. I am eternally grateful for your love for me. You always want what is best, and you always know what it is. You always know the best way that it should happen. I want to trust you to work out your will in your way in my life.

Help me to do that Lord. Every day. Starting today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Chapter 2 When the Last in Line Gets Chosen for the Team

The casting agent enters the room with her top picks for the show’s leading man and lady.  The new series will follow the spellbinding story of a clan that builds a powerful, world-impacting family tree.  This is the pilot, and it is crucial to make the right call on the individuals who will fall in love and launch this Kennedy-like family of influence and fame.

Producers and writers alike have waited breathlessly for this moment, the moment when who they have envisioned as the leading characters will be finally realized in an actor and actress.  But when they turn to see who has been tapped for these most special of roles, the thud of their collective jaws hitting the majestic mahogany conference table muffles their mutual groans.

There before their wide eyes, instead of the expected vibrant, young couple with gleaming white teeth and tanned and toned bodies, stand a 75-year-old man and a 65-year-old woman.  Not what they had pictured for their production.

And yet, this is what God has chosen.  His screenplay called for a couple to launch a new nation, one that would impact the entire world.  As he would say, a nation through whom “all the nations of the earth would be blessed” (Genesis 12:1-3).

Abram and Sarai stand there, adorned perhaps by dusty old robes and crowned with wispy white hair and loosely fitting skin and as befuddled as anyone else.  God chose them to begin a nation.  An unlikely pair, especially after factoring in the fact that Sarai was barren.  How could God expect to start a nation with a woman who could not bear children?

To complicate the story line, it will be 25 more years before they actually have their child of promise.  By that time Abram and Sarai will be 100 years old and 90 years old, respectively (and their names will be changed to Abraham and Sarah).  Perhaps Social Security checks will help this special couple decorate the baby’s tent and they’ll be able take naps when the baby does.  And the rest, as they say, is history.  His story.

God picks people you and I wouldn’t necessarily select to take part in his story. In fact sometimes we are shocked who plays the starring roles in his stories.  Unlike the way we do business, he taps people, not merely because of their abilities, but for their availability.  God searches for people who are open to be used by him.  Since he uses only those who are willing to be used for his purposes, there is no doubt that it is he who is doing the the wonder- working.  Let there be no doubt, throughout history he is the one making things happen. 

That’s good news, isn’t it?  In the business world, you may not have a great pedigree.  In academics, you may not be a Rhodes Scholar.  You may not have a lot of money and you may have average looks.  But you may be sitting in a pretty good position to be a top pick for God’s work.

Today’s reading: Page 11 through middle of page 15

This reading covers: Genesis 12-21

Summary: God shows himself to be a faithful promise maker.

Consider this: What has God asked you to do recently? What would it cost you to obey? Consider Abraham’s age when he was called out of Ur, when he was promised a son and when he had Isaac. What factor does age play in God’s calling? Do you feel too young or too old? God would like you to put away your personal feelings of inadequacy and simply follow. What was Abraham’s motivating quality?

For further reading: Hebrews 11:8-10, 17-19

Prayer: Heavenly Father, instill in me the same kind of faith that moved Abraham to obey when you called him to another place, the same kind of faith that helped him follow your commands, even at great loss to himself. Help me to truly know your commands by reading your word and meditating on its content. Let me not be deceived by false teachings and misleading instruction. Grant me discernment so I might know the truth from the lie and then give me the ability to follow truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Today’s reading: Middle of 15 through break on page 17
This reading covers: Genesis 22
Summary: Abraham’s test proves he is committed to God.
Consider this: What impressed God most; Abraham’s sacrifice or his obedience? List several ways you can demonstrate your faith in God through obedience and sacrifice. What was God’s ultimate sacrifice? What was Jesus’ ultimate act of obedience? How does all that affect your walk with God?
For further reading: 1 Samuel 15
Prayer: Heavenly Father, I have been so consumed with the things I want and the way I would like life to be that I have forgotten what my salvation cost you. Forgive me and now turn my life around so that I am able to shed my self-centered behavior and focus on you and your plan for my life. Help me put away my fears and by faith accept your will. As I step forward in obedience, encourage me with blessings beyond what I could ever imagine. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

The Fall Page 4 through break on page 6

This reading covers: Genesis 3-4

Summary: By pursuing their story instead of God’s story, Adam and Eve enter into sin.

Consider this: How does knowing that Adam and Eve were confronted by a very real enemy impact your understanding of Satan? How do you understand the choices that are placed before each of us every day?

For further reading: Isaiah 14:12-15; Ephesians 6:10-20; 1 Peter 5:8-9

Prayer: Father, help me remember that I live in the midst of a great battle. Help me to see this battle in the great and small choices placed before me every day. In these choices, help me to choose to follow you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.  

Creation Page 1 through break on page 4 This reading covers: Genesis 1-2

Summary: God shows the incredible nature of his creative ability.

Consider this: What strikes you most about God’s creative ability? How does his creativity apply to your life? As the creator of all, what does God have at his disposal as he leads you?

For further reading: Psalm 148; John 1:1-18; Colossians 1:15-20

Prayer: Father, you indeed are the creator of all things. Help me to see your hand in everything around me.  Help me to marvel at your beauty and reflect on your wisdom. In Jesus’ name, Amen. If you're learning from the Word, invite others to learn with you.  

Pray that God will . . .
. . . touch our hearts with His Story of loveFor God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. [John 3:16-17 NIV]

. . . train our hearts as we share His Story with one anotherI keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Sprit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his people, and his incomparable great power for us who believe. [Eph. 1:17-19 NIV]

. . . transform our hearts to live His Story in the worldAnd God has given us the privilege of urging everyone to come into his favor and be reconciled to him. … This is the wonderful message He has given us to tell others. We are Christ’s ambassadors.  [2 Cor. 5:18b-20 LB] 

The Story Pray for those who will be telling The Story.   
      “Now, Lord… enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness.” Acts 4: 29

Praise God for speaking to us through the Bible.                
      “For the Word of God is living and active…” Hebrews 4: 12a

Ask the Lord for guidance as we seek him.
      “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” Matthew 7: 7

Thank God for our small group leaders.
     “It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God’s people for works of service so that the body of Christ may be built up…”Ephesians 4:11-12

Pray that this Story experience will lead us to truth, freedom and hope.
     “Jesus said, ‘If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.’”  John 8:31-32  

Confess our lack of attention to His word.
     “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves.  Do what it says.” James 1:22

Pray for our friends and family as we share God’s story with them.
     “One generation will commend your works to another; they will tell of your mighty acts.” Psalm 145:4

Pray for spiritual growth in our church.
     “Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity…”  Hebrews 6:1a

Ask God to bless our children as they learn of His love for them.
     “Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.’” Matthew 19:14

Thank the Lord that his written word is so accessible to us.                
     “Glorify the Lord with me; let us exalt his name together.”  Psalm 34:3

Pray that we will be challenged by each week’s message.
      “Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my savior, and my hope is in you all day long.” Psalm 25:4

Praise God for Jesus Christ, the ultimate expression of His love.
      “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16

Ask God for wisdom as we apply His story to our own life story.
       “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.”  James 1:5

Praise God for His Holy Spirit who guides us.                
     “But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth.” John 16:13

Pray for our families as they experience The Story of the Bible together. 
     “These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”  Deuteronomy 6:6-7

Pray for conviction of sin in our lives and the willingness to repent.
      “Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” 2 Timothy 2:22

Ask God to make our hearts receptive to His story and protect our minds from distractions.
     “…for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.” Philippians 2:13

Ask God to be our voice as we boldly share our testimony with those who need Jesus. 
      “And God has given us the privilege of urging everyone to come into his favor and be reconciled to him… This is the wonderful message He has given us to tell others.  We are Christ’s ambassadors.” 2 Corinthians 5: 18b-20

Praise God for the abundant grace He has poured out upon His people.
     “How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!”  1 John 3:1

Pray for salvation for those who have not taken that step.
     “He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed.”  1 Peter 2:24

Pray for physical protection and good health for our leaders and participants.               
     “…I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you…”  2 John 3

Pray that each person would sense God’s presence in their personal studies.
     “Here I am!  I stand at the door and knock.  If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him and he with me.”  Rev. 3:20

Pray that God’s blessings would be poured out on those who lead and serve.
     “And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is my disciple, I tell you the truth, he will certainly not lose his reward.” Matthew 10: 42

Pray for God’s power to touch each person’s heart to respond to him with praise.
     “How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!” Psalm 119:103

Pray that our church would hunger and thirst for spiritual transformation.               
      “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.”  Matthew 5:6

Pray that we would experience deeper relationships and changed lives.
     “I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his comparably great power for us who believer…” Ephesians 1:17-19a

Ask God to lead us to those in our neighborhoods who need Jesus.
     “’You are the light of the world.’ …let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-15

Pray that God will bring groups together to share The Story.     
     “For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding.” Colossians 1:9

Ask God for spiritual protection for our leaders and participants.
     “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” Ephesians 6:12

Pray that participants will have a renewed desire to pursue spiritual habits in their lives.
     “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Romans 12:2a

Pray for each person to have a servant’s heart and to serve wherever needed.
     “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave – just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”  Matthew 20:26b-28

Praise God for the hearts that will be changed by this study.              
      “Create in me a pure heart , O God…” Psalm 51: 10a
 
Ask God to powerfully use The Story to impact our community for Christ.
     “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.  And surely I am with you always…”  Matthew 28:20

Pray that everyone will grow in their love of God – with all their heart, soul, and mind. …
     ”‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’  This is the first and greatest commandment.”  Matthew 22:37

Ask God to maintain unity and harmony among leaders and participants.
     “May they [believers] be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.”  John 17:23.

Pray for lasting, eternal fruit.
     “In a word, what I'm saying is, Grow up. You're kingdom subjects. Now live like it. Live out your God-created identity. Live generously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you." Matthew 5:48

Pray that those who visit our church will be warmly welcomed.
     “May our church be a ‘place where the hurting, the hopeless, the discouraged, the depressed, the frustrated and confused can find love, acceptance, guidance and encouragement.’” Rick Warren

Pray that The Story will be a defining experience in our church’s journey. 
    “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.” Psalm 119:105