Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.10, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Thistlebend Ministries Discipleship Bible Study Resources for Women. ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://www.thistlebend.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Belief](https://www.thistlebend.org/belief/) - Belief Have you ever thought about what you believe to be true and why you believe that? Recently, a prank news site released the story that Reese’s peanut butter cups were going to be discontinued (imagine the horror of that story!). Similarly, another site circulated the “news” that Congress had passed a bill which made - [Our Need for the Gospel](https://www.thistlebend.org/our-need-for-the-gospel/) - Usually when I sit down to write a blog, I write about what the Lord has been teaching me lately. Recently, I was due to turn in a blog post and was praying about what to write. The only thing that came to mind was something I felt I had written previously. At the risk - [Doing Life Together](https://www.thistlebend.org/doing-life-together/) - [Finding Your Home](https://www.thistlebend.org/finding-your-home/) - “I just have such a hard time during the newborn stage. I feel so unsettled as I’m trying to figure out our new routines.” I confessed this to my sister-in-law not too long ago as I was processing through the hard that comes when you are given the gift of a baby. Last week, my - [Sneaky Pride](https://www.thistlebend.org/sneaky-pride/) - Sneaky Pride A while ago I made a commitment to contribute as a writer twice a month to the Bloom Blog. It has been a long time since I’ve written a blog. I had many reasons why I hadn’t written. One, I would tell myself “Today is the day I will write!” but not surprisingly, - [The Graphic Gospel (1): God as Creator](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-graphic-gospel-1-god-as-creator/) - G O D A S C R E A T O R Because God is the Lord of all and Creator of all and He has given us all things. We owe Him all things. In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:1 ESV So God created man in his own image, in the - [The Graphic Gospel (2): Man](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-graphic-gospel-2-man-4/) - MAN Man was created good, but fell prey to temptation and sinned against God, bringing death to his soul. Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned. Romans 5:12 ESV For the wages of sin is death. . - [The Graphic Gospel (3): Jesus](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-graphic-gospel-3-jesus/) - JESUS Jesus Christ came, lived a perfect life, bore the wrath we deserved, died in our place, and rose again, overcoming sin and death that we would have life eternal. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. Jn. - [The Graphic Gospel (4): Salvation](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-graphic-gospel-4-salvation/) - SALVATION Through Christ, God in perfect love, great mercy, and amazing grace made a way where there seemed to be no way. Because of Jesus' death and resurrection, salvation is available to all who by God's grace put their faith in Christ. For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people. Ti. - [The Graphic Gospel (5): Vessel of Glory](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-graphic-gospel-5-vessel-of-glory/) - VESSEL OF GLORY Our salvation is of the Lord and for His glory. He has saved our souls to change our lives. Each Christian is a unique vessel of God created in Christ Jesus for good works. No two are alike, but ALL are to be like Christ. Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the - [Gospel Moments (1): Creator God (Part One)](https://www.thistlebend.org/gospel-moments-1-creator-god-part-one/) - CREATOR GOD Genesis 1:1 In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. As we meditate on the gospel we want to begin at the beginning, at the origin of life itself. God is God. He is the creator of all things, living and non-living things. God created you. He is the author and - [Gospel Moments (2): Creator God (Part Two)](https://www.thistlebend.org/gospel-moments-2-creator-god-part-two/) - CREATOR GOD Genesis 1:1 ESV In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. God is God. The fact that He is the God of creation means that He is Lord of all. Understanding and believing God as creator offers great hope in an uncertain world. These days we can awake to this life - [Gospel Moments (3): Creator God (Part Three)](https://www.thistlebend.org/gospel-moments-3-creator-god-part-three/) - CREATOR GOD Genesis 1:1 ESV In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. If God's Word begins with this clear defining statement that GOD created the heavens and the earth, it is no surprise then that the enemy has gone after this truth with full force. God is LORD of creation, and this - [Gospel Moments (4): Creator God (Part Four)](https://www.thistlebend.org/gospel-moments-4-creator-god-part-four/) - CREATOR GOD Genesis 1:1 ESV In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. I think we need to hear this truth yet one more time . . . What does it mean to really believe something? We know that we believe when we live it. Do we believe that God is God? That - [Gospel Moments (5): Made in the Image of God](https://www.thistlebend.org/gospel-moments-5-made-in-the-image-of-god/) - MADE IN THE IMAGE OF GOD Genesis 1:27 ESV So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. Just as the heavens and the earth weren't the result of just a random big bang, Adam and Eve did not EVOLVE from molecules, - [Gospel Moments (11): Made in the Image of God (Part Five)](https://www.thistlebend.org/gospel-moments-11-made-in-the-image-of-god-part-five/) - Genesis 1:27 ESV So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. What does it mean to you that you have been created in the image of God? It is important that we don't follow our own ideas and inventions but that - [Gospel Moments (12): Made in the Image of God (Part Six)](https://www.thistlebend.org/gospel-moments-12-made-in-the-image-of-god-part-six/) - Genesis 1:27 ESV So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. It is the first Monday morning of a new year, a new beginning. The first day back to work for many people, the first day back to school for many - [Man's Rebellion](https://www.thistlebend.org/gospel-moments-13-mans-rebellion/) - God saw all that He created and called it very good. HOWEVER, man fell prey to temptation and into sin.Man rebelled against his maker, his Lord, and his provider, doubting His goodness, disobeying His command, desiring for himself that which only God deserved, bringing death to his soul. For the wages of sin is death. - [Christ's Love for Us](https://www.thistlebend.org/gospel-moments-15-christs-love-for-us/) - Can you still see and feel the remaining sin in your heart? The willfulness, rebellion, disobedience, unbelief, selfishness, greed, pride, fear, anger and more? Sin hurts and causes so much pain, sorrow, sadness, darkness and death... Sin deceives, discourages, divides, destroys, demeans... so so much more. For our sake he made him to be sin - [How Are You Doing?](https://www.thistlebend.org/gospel-moments-16-how-are-you-doing/) - How are you doing? Where are your thoughts? Does your heart become heavy and overcome with sadness? Are you overwhelmed with your weaknesses, sins, and failures? We all are so weak, and feeble, and frail. How frequently we find we fail and fail. How we see our wrong attitudes, hear our short words, and feel - [Our Sin, His Righteousness (Pt. 1)](https://www.thistlebend.org/gospel-moments-17-our-sin-his-righteousness-part-one/) - For our sake He made Him to be sin who knew no sin ... so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21 This is closely related to what Paul says in his letter to the Galatians when he says that Christ became a curse for us. It helps to - [Gospel Moments (6): Truth--Review, Reflect, and Revise](https://www.thistlebend.org/gospel-moment-6-truth-review-reflect-and-revise/) - Genesis 1:1 ESV In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:27 ESV So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. If we believe that God is God, that He created ALL THINGS, and that He is LORD - [Gospel Moments (7): Prayer and Praise](https://www.thistlebend.org/gospel-moment-7-prayer-and-praise/) - Genesis 1:1 ESV In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:27 ESV So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. The more we meditate upon God's Word the more it shapes how we think, how we feel, - [Gospel Moments (8): Made in the Image of God (Part Two)](https://www.thistlebend.org/gospel-moments-8-made-in-the-image-of-god-part-two/) - Genesis 1:27-31 ESV So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. And God blessed them. And God said to them, "Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion over the fish of the sea and - [Gospel Moments (9): Made in the Image of God (Part Three)](https://www.thistlebend.org/gospel-moments-9-made-in-the-image-of-god-part-three/) - Genesis 1:27 ESV So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. You may be wondering what is the purpose of walking so slowly through these verses.I have discovered that most of us, including myself, do not slow down enough to fully - [Gospel Moments (10): Made in the Image of God (Part Four)](https://www.thistlebend.org/gospel-moments-10-made-in-the-image-of-god-part-four/) - Genesis 1:27 ESV So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. What does it mean to be created in the image of God? This has challenged theologians for centuries. Many commentators have much to say regarding specific metaphysical questions about the - [Man's Rebellion (Pt. 2)](https://www.thistlebend.org/gospel-moments-14-mans-rebellion-part-two/) - We once lived in darkness, at enmity with God, rebellious, disobedient, unloving at our core. We were dead in our trespasses and sins. For the wages of sin is death. . . Romans 6:23 ESV Sin separates us from God, the creator and sustainer of life. Sin did not result in the immediate physical death - [Our Sin, His Righteousness (Pt. 2)](https://www.thistlebend.org/gospel-moments-18-our-sin-his-righteousness-part-two/) - For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21 ...but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8 In this is love, not that we have - [Our Sin, His Righteousness (Pt. 3)](https://www.thistlebend.org/gospel-moments-19-our-sin-his-righteousness-part-three/) - For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21 We all think like sinners and will think like sinners until we are in glory. God gave up His Son for wayward, wretched, and wanton children like us. - [Our Sin, His Righteousness (Pt. 4)](https://www.thistlebend.org/gospel-moments-20-our-sin-his-righteousness-part-four/) - For our sake He made Him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21 We are sinners saved by grace. We have not only been saved from sin, the penalty of sin, we have been given a new identity because we are - [Our Sin, His Righteousness (Pt. 5)](https://www.thistlebend.org/gospel-moments-21-our-sin-his-righteousness-part-five/) - For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21 When we by grace alone through faith alone put our trust in Christ alone for the forgiveness of our sins we were given His righteousness. We were baptized - [Our Sin, His Righteousness (Pt. 6)](https://www.thistlebend.org/gospel-moments-22-our-sin-his-righteousness-part-six/) - We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin. For one who has died has been set free from sin. Romans 6:6-7 Once we have been born again in Christ we are - [Who Am I?](https://www.thistlebend.org/who-am-i/) - Who Am I? My favorite musical is Les Miserables, which follows the life of Jean Valjean, who transforms from a bitter, petty thief into a man who seeks redemption. In one scene, a man closely resembling Valjean, is about to be falsely imprisoned as Valjean. Valjean must make a choice: turn himself in, or - [Lord, Help My Unbelief](https://www.thistlebend.org/lord-help-my-unbelief/) - My Struggle: I was given a pretty hefty slice of humble pie yesterday. While at the library with my boys, a mom with her daughter kept talking to me. I wasn’t overtly rude by any means, but I wasn’t really in the mood to chat. I had plenty of opportunities to really take interest in - [What is Deep Discipleship](https://www.thistlebend.org/what-is-deep-discipleship/) - Introduction In a world filled with distractions and challenges, individuals seeking a profound and transformative relationship with their faith often find solace and strength in the concept of deep discipleship. Deep discipleship goes beyond surface-level engagement with one's faith and delves into the core of spiritual growth, fostering a connection that is both intimate and - [Very Present](https://www.thistlebend.org/very-present/) - The Lord is allowing a challenging season in my life right now. I have two sweet babes, one that is 18 months old and one that is almost three months old. I’ve struggled a lot with even saying that this season is hard because I find myself feeling a lot of guilt for that. These - [Laboring for the Lord](https://www.thistlebend.org/laboring-for-the-lord/) - After a couple of months off, we are moving into our next season of Bible Study. Our next study is called, Jesus, I Need You. The title alone describes how I feel! I DO need Jesus! At the beginning of every study, we do a week of orientation—we spend time reading and talking about why - [Chocolate Cake Will Fail You Too](https://www.thistlebend.org/chocolate-cake-will-fail-you-too/) - “You’re not going to find happiness in a piece of chocolate cake.” Ok, I am paraphrasing Laurie from last week’s lecture. But she did say something about chocolate cake not being able to provide lasting comfort when we are facing tough situations. Is that really true?! I thought chocolate solved pretty much all problems. Of - [Your Best Friend](https://www.thistlebend.org/your-best-friend/) - I recently had coffee with a very dear friend. I’m in a season of weariness, both physically and emotionally, so I haven’t been looking forward to many things, but I did look forward to spending time with this particular friend because I knew that I would truly enjoy our visit. I knew that I could - [Before Whom Do I Kneel?](https://www.thistlebend.org/before-whom-do-i-kneel/) - One of the things I love about Thistlebend studies is the emphasis on taking God’s Word to heart. We do this by choosing a verse from our daily study that stands out to us, and then, each week, we choose one verse from the daily verses we have selected. This verse becomes our “Taking the - [Map to Victory](https://www.thistlebend.org/map-to-victory/) - Kids today just don’t know the joy of maps, or hand-written directions. I still remember being a passenger in the car and trying to help the driver navigate. I’m the first to admit I am map-challenged. GPS’s and Google Maps are awesome inventions and I am sure that arguments between drivers and passenger have had - [When Your Calendar is too Full](https://www.thistlebend.org/when-your-calendar-is-too-full/) - A few weeks ago, I looked at my calendar and was suddenly filled with anxiety. My schedule was just too full. I started to feel overwhelmed. Fearful. My first reaction was “what can I drop from my schedule to gain a few badly needed hours each week?” And sadly, Bible Study was the first thing - [When You're Stretched Too Thin](https://www.thistlebend.org/when-youre-stretched-too-thin/) - When I was growing up, I remember one cultural message very clearly: “Look out for #1!” We were constantly bombarded with the importance of putting ourselves first and taught that our personal needs mattered more than anyone else’s. I now know that messaging is untrue, but after a lifetime of hearing it, the words are - [Who Am I?](https://www.thistlebend.org/who-am-i-2/) - My favorite musical of all time is “Les Misérables.” The musical has been around for over 40 years, so it’s likely you have seen it. If not, the musical (supposedly) takes place during the French Revolution, and follows the life of its protagonist, Jean Valjean, through harsh imprisonment to becoming a major of a town. - [Who Am I in Christ: What Was I Saved To?](https://www.thistlebend.org/what-was-i-saved-to/) - We just recently celebrated one of the most beautiful, somber, and celebratory weeks of the Christian calendar—Holy Week. I’m still thinking about it. We were reminded of the unimaginable suffering Jesus endured to fulfill the will of our Holy God. We took time to ponder what the cross means. That Jesus, the perfect son of - [When You Feel Unnoticed](https://www.thistlebend.org/when-you-feel-unnoticed/) - I may have gotten in one of the dumbest arguments ever with my husband last night. I’ll spare you the details, but we argued over who watered the ferns last summer. Yes, you read that correctly, insert monkey covering his eyes emoji here! We’re almost finished with our most recent study Jesus, I Need You - [Why 'Doing it All' Isn't Enough](https://www.thistlebend.org/why-doing-all-isnt-enough/) - I left my small group church training so encouraged and so very excited to begin this semester, but right along with the excitement came a creeping lie of feeling the weight of the responsibility that comes with leading a small group in our church—the call to disciple and love our group members well. As I - [Am I Good Enough?](https://www.thistlebend.org/am-i-good-enough-2/) - Did you ever watch Jay Leno, the king of Late-Night television for many years? He periodically ran a segment called “Jaywalking,” in which Jay himself would take to the streets of Los Angeles and ask random people questions. Some of them are hilarious. My son and I have watched YouTube videos of these - [So We Do Not Lose Heart](https://www.thistlebend.org/so-we-do-not-lose-heart/) - “So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are - [The Imprecatory Psalms and the Northeast Ohio Women's Center](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-imprecatory-psalms-and-the-northeast-ohio-womens-center/) - by Scott Kaczorowski There are a lot of statements in the Bible about God's love and care and concern even for His enemies. There are also statements throughout Scripture of God's impending judgment on those who will not repent and receive His grace. A particular example of this type of passage would be what are - [Share in Suffering](https://www.thistlebend.org/share-in-suffering/) - "Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus" (2 Tim. 2:3). I have to say that I don't particularly like the current trend when people say "Really?!" But that is exactly what I found myself saying to the Lord. I thought to myself "I'm not a soldier, an athlete OR a hard-working farmer - [The Cost of Unbelief](https://www.thistlebend.org/cost-of-unbelief/) - I have so much in common with the children of Israel as they wandered in the desert, waiting to lay claim to the promised land. I often become weary after following the Lord through what seems like one wilderness after another. I want to lay down, stop. My weak flesh and mind are often overcome - [Love that Transforms](https://www.thistlebend.org/love-that-transforms/) - by Angie Thomas As I prayed and asked the Lord this week what He would have me share with you, He kept impressing on my heart His great love for each of you. His love that is way beyond emotional sentimentalism, but is a pure, rich, deep, abiding, sacrificial love. He desires for you to - [Fight the Good Fight of Faith](https://www.thistlebend.org/fight-the-good-fight-of-faith/) - by Dottie RyanOftentimes I find myself skimming over words in the Bible that are very familiar without even stopping to digest what they are really saying. Today as I was doing Day 3 in the Thistlebend Bible Study–– Run the Race. There were six words that jumped out at me: "Fight the Good Fight of Faith." I - [What's Wrong With Venting About My Husband?](https://www.thistlebend.org/wrong-venting-about-husband/) - Imagine having coffee with a few friends–just the girls. Isn’t it likely that at some point, one of your friends will make a comment about her husband? Soon, everyone is “venting.” Our husbands are forgetful, they chew too loudly, and they don’t help enough with household chores. We share our frustrations with each other, not - [Repentance Over Perfection](https://www.thistlebend.org/repentance-over-perfection/) - I’m very thankful for the review week of Falling In Love Again With Your Husband. Each day of homework takes participants through the other six weeks of homework that they have already completed. It’s amazing to go back and remember truths that the Lord brought to new light and also very sweet to see new - [Does Fear Hold You Back?](https://www.thistlebend.org/fear-hold-back/) - It is hard, no, nearly impossible to ignore the constant purging of information media can throw at us these days; honestly I can be distracted by this more than I would like to admit. For me, information can feel like it is bombarding my brain from absolutely every side. More than that, as a woman - [How to be a Fragrant Aroma](https://www.thistlebend.org/fragrant-aroma/) - Lesson four of Falling In Love Again With Your Husband was about how, as wives, we are to be fragrant aromas to our husbands. “And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God” (Ephesians 5:2). People desire to be around sweet smelling aromas - [It's a Sacrificial Love](https://www.thistlebend.org/sacrificial-love/) - This past weekend my husband and I were at a wedding. It was gorgeous—the perfectly arranged flowers, the gold chairs, the gorgeous table arrangements, and of course, the breath-taking bride. The church doors opened, the music played, the crowd stood, and the bride radiantly walked down the aisle. Anytime I am at a wedding I - [Smell Better Than Calvin Klein's Euphoria](https://www.thistlebend.org/smell-better-calvin-klein-euphoria/) - Recently, I came down with some sort of virus. I was sick an entire weekend. Thankfully, by Monday, I was feeling better. I knew there would be chores to catch up on. I decided to start with the laundry. I opened the laundry chute and soon, there was an avalanche of clothes in the laundry - [A Note of Encouragement](https://www.thistlebend.org/7685-2/) - We are so encouraged by what the Lord is teaching current study participants as they continue on in the Falling in Love Again With Your Husband study! When asked, half way through, “What is the Lord showing you through this study?” these are some of the answers we received revealing how God is working. “The - [How the Grocery Store Pointed to Jesus](https://www.thistlebend.org/7682-2/) - The Falling in Love Again With Your Husband study thus far has been very convicting, revealing so much hidden sin in my heart. It has also been very practical helping me think through ways in everyday life that I can apply right now to put my flesh to death, by God’s grace, for my marriage. - [When You Feel That God's Word Isn't Applying to Your Life](https://www.thistlebend.org/7679-2/) - There has been much discussion in our lectures, small groups and homework each week, amongst the ladies currently participating in the Falling in Love Again With Your Husband study, on the practicality of putting what God’s word says about wives, into practice. What the ladies are learning as they continue through this study is that - [Submission Brings Freedom?](https://www.thistlebend.org/submission-brings-freedom/) - What do you think of when you hear the word submission, as in submitting to your husband? Do you think, “fear,” or “giving up control?” I can relate to both of these. But my prayer now, after being in this study, Falling in Love Again With Your Husband, is that I would think, “Freedom!” - [When it Feels Like God is Late](https://www.thistlebend.org/feels-like-god-late/) - "Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. So, when he heard that Lazarus was ill, he stayed two days longer in the place where he was" (John 11:5-6). “So when Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went and met him, but Mary remained seated in the house. Martha said to Jesus, 'Lord, if you had been here, my - [A Prayer For Unbelief](https://www.thistlebend.org/a-prayer-for-unbelief/) - Abba Father, I confess to you that I keep thinking it’s all too good to be true! That’s how good, how incredible, how amazing your love and truth are! Amazing grace, how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me! It’s like I’m on a precipice looking down at this incredible place that’s too - [When You Feel Weak](https://www.thistlebend.org/when-you-feel-weak/) - How comfortable are you with being weak? I’m terrible at it. To avoid being weak I will, at all cost, avoid doing things that I am not good at. I have kept myself from reaching above my comfort zone in work, relationships, and writing. If I was not good at communicating with someone, I would - [My Life Isn't Mine?](https://www.thistlebend.org/life-isnt-mine/) - I encourage you to listen to, and also read, the lyrics to the Casting Crowns song titled Lifesong. Here is a link: https://www.castingcrowns.com/lyrics/lifesong/ I have heard this song a hundred times, but as I was driving to work the other day it came on the radio and the beginning line just struck me, “Empty hands - [Why You Don't Have to be Right](https://www.thistlebend.org/why-you-dont-have-to-be-right/) - My Abigail (Thistlebend’s small group leaders called to shepherd the members of their group in God’s word and hold them accountable) said something to me last week in our small group time that The Lord allowed to be so freeing to me. In last week’s lecture Laurie quoted The Westminster Catechism when saying that the - [Wives—Your Greatest Calling](https://www.thistlebend.org/wives-greatest-calling/) - Have you ever heard the expression “Hurts so Good?” When I hear it, I think of elite athletes whose training must hurt, but is ultimately deemed “good” because it yields impressive gains. That’s where I am today in our current study, Falling in Love Again With Your Husband. It hurts so good. It hurts because - [When Your Expectations Aren't Met](https://www.thistlebend.org/expectations-arent-met/) - “We cannot write our own story, He is the Author. He is the Beginning, the Middle, and the End.” “He has a story He is going to tell in our lives. He has a story of redemption.” These are quotes from the first lecture of the Falling in Love Again with Your Husband study (Laurie - [When You Just Don't Feel Like It](https://www.thistlebend.org/when-you-just-dont-feel-like-it/) - During the first week of homework from the Falling In Love Again With Your Husband study, over two days, Laurie asked participants to read through Psalm 119. The homework prompted participants on day four of the first week, “Read verses 1-88. As you read, observe the psalmist’s affections and feelings toward God and toward the law. - [Lies Women Believe About Marriage](https://www.thistlebend.org/lies-women-believe-about-marriage/) - We are beginning a new study: Falling In Love Again With Your Husband. I need this study. I am married. I love my husband. But I did not tell him the name of the study until the day we started. Why not? I was afraid. I was afraid my husband would hold me to a - [Why It's Okay You're Not a Good Wife](https://www.thistlebend.org/why-its-okay-youre-not-a-good-wife/) - This past week Thistlebend began a new study called Falling In Love Again With Your Husband. To be totally honest with you, as much as I’m embarrassed to say it, I thought I was doing pretty well in this area. Both my husband and I love and seek after the Lord, and I truly love my - [New Year's Resolutions](https://www.thistlebend.org/new-years-resolutions/) - Holy smokes, it’s 2017! 2016 was a hard year. We had health problems in my family. Two of us required surgery. We spent days, weeks, months – it seemed – focused on simply getting through the day. Chronic pain and fatigue made it difficult to be consistent with much of anything. I am not complaining. - [A Heart That Beats with God's Heart](https://www.thistlebend.org/a-heart-that-beats-with-gods-heart/) - Have you ever read Psalm 63? If you have or have not, here is a brief summary of what took place in this Psalm. David was on the run from his son Absalom so he fled into the Wilderness of Judah. Being an extremely visual learner, I started doing some research on the Wilderness of - [Dependence in Community](https://www.thistlebend.org/dependence-in-community/) - Our study has been on a break for the holidays and I’ve got to tell you, I was ready for a little break. Please don’t misunderstand, I LOVE our studies and I LOVE Thistlebend, but sometimes it’s just good to have a break from the normal routine. And it’s great to gain an extra morning - [Lord, Change What I Yearn For](https://www.thistlebend.org/lord-change-what-i-yearn-for/) - Oh, Christmas time! There are many parts of this season I love! Decorating. Putting up the Christmas tree. Visiting and sharing meals with family. Enjoying festive lights. Receiving Christmas cards and hearing from friends and family. Giving gifts. Singing and listening to Christmas music. Celebrating Jesus’ birth. This Christmas, as I thought about Advent -- a - [Feeling the (Spiritual) Burn](https://www.thistlebend.org/feeling-the-spiritual-burn/) - I just recently started my workout routine again. I used to be pretty disciplined in this, but taking a six week break after my baby and then having a totally new schedule altogether threw me for a loop. I’m starting with just quick 20 minute workouts I find on YouTube. Twenty minutes is not that - [Where Is My Hope?](https://www.thistlebend.org/where-is-my-hope/) - Our study for the fall of 2016, Falling in Love Again with Your Lord, has come to an end. I have taken this study before, but honestly, the study felt new to me this time. Life changes, but the Word of God does not. It meets us where we are. On our last day of - [Faithfulness in Barrenness](https://www.thistlebend.org/faithfulness-in-barrenness/) - For the very first time I sat in a church service that would intentionally gear the sermons for the rest of December for Advent. Growing up I was not familiar with the idea of Advent. It was actually not until I came to Thistlebend that I first heard the word. The sermon on this particular - [What Do You Cling To?](https://www.thistlebend.org/what-do-you-cling-to/) - While I hate to say it because I KNOW the truth, I still cling to my feelings, which keeps me from clinging to the Lord. Everything I shared in my Taking the Truth to Heart each week during the Falling in Love Again with Your Lord study all boiled down to the fact that I'm - [What Voice Do You Listen To?](https://www.thistlebend.org/what-voice-do-you-listen-to/) - When my daughter was around 5 years old, she told me that there was a voice that lived inside her head. My daughter is highly creative, so instead of thinking, “OH NO!” I asked her tell me more. It turned out that my daughter had given this voice a name: Mind-y (like the word “mind” - [God’s Love > My Sin](https://www.thistlebend.org/gods-love-my-sin/) - Someone recently said to me, “God isn’t surprised by our sin.” Throughout the day that phrase just stuck with me for some reason. He isn’t surprised when I chose sleep over time in His Word? He isn’t surprised when I gossip with a friend and don’t even feel convicted until days later? He isn’t surprised - [Faith Like Abraham](https://www.thistlebend.org/faith-like-abraham/) - This morning in my Falling in Love Again with Your Lord study we were prompted to read the story of Abraham. The Scriptures took us through Abram becoming Abraham and how he time and time again heard from the Lord. Even though most of what God said seemed a total impossibility, Abraham continued to believe - [From Hiding Away to Singing for Joy](https://www.thistlebend.org/from-hiding-away-to-singing-for-joy/) - "…for You have been my help, and in the shadow of Your wings I will sing for joy" (Psa. 63:7). When I am hurting, I find I want to hide. I want to retreat. I think many people are like this. Maybe that’s why we self-medicate. We can “hide” in drugs, alcohol, food, TV, shopping, - [Why Now?](https://www.thistlebend.org/why-now/) - As this study draws near to closing, I find myself reflecting on many things that took place while I was in Falling in Love Again with Your Lord. I dealt heavily in areas of feelings and asking God, “Why?” “Why are you doing this now?” was a really big question I had during this study. - [I Can't Do This On My Own](https://www.thistlebend.org/i-cant-do-this-on-my-own/) - In so many different ways lately the Lord has been reminding me of the truth that this world I live in now is not my home. I am just passing through. If you are in Christ, you are just passing through this world too. We are here for God’s glory and His purposes alone. All - [When Storms Come](https://www.thistlebend.org/when-storms-come/) - As you can tell from my last several blog posts, it has been a season of trials and tribulations for my family. From scares, injuries, accidents, and anxiety, we have been walking through a season where we are 100% confident the Lord is trying to teach us something. We are now walking through another situation - [Waiting on the Lord](https://www.thistlebend.org/waiting-on-the-lord/) - Do you feel like you are waiting for the Lord to do a great work in your heart? That was one of the reflection questions in our homework last week after being asked to read Psalm 40. We are studying David and his love for and trust in the Lord during our current Bible study, - [Yahweh, I Am Writing to You](https://www.thistlebend.org/yahweh-i-am-writing-to-you/) - Father, I am wounded, but you will heal me. Right now, I am writing to you because my heart is hurting. Your truth said in Psalm 119:130 that your Word "imparts understanding to the simple." I am learning how simple I am. I know I am to trust you, YAHWEH. You are “I AM.” I - [Missing Out?](https://www.thistlebend.org/missing-out/) - I’m a new momma. While I’ve tried to keep life from changing as much as possible, because I hate change, I’m realizing that it's inevitable that things have to. I’ve struggled more than I would like to admit with this, mainly because I feel guilty that I keep wanting/mourning my old way of life before - [The Right Perspective](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-right-perspective/) - We have all had bad days. Some days, the mishaps are so numerous they are almost comical. Like the time I overslept. Then my pants split a seam…in a noticeable place. I wore one black shoe and one blue shoe. My gas gauge was almost on “E,” so I pull into the gas station only - [A Curious Thing Happened While Praying Outside an Abortion Clinic](https://www.thistlebend.org/a-curious-thing-happened-while-praying-outside-an-abortion-clinic/) - by Scott Kaczorowski There is an abortion clinic located a little more than five minutes from where we live in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. It had previously been shut down for health code violations but had been reopened under a new name. The (intentionally?)nondescriptly named Northeast Ohio Women's Center. After reading about its reopening, I prayerfully considered - [Be Real](https://www.thistlebend.org/be-real/) - What would they think if they could see? Why do I care so much what they think of me? What is the worst that could happen if they saw When I am open, vulnerable, and completely raw? What is the worst; why do I fear? Why do I put up these walls so no - [Falling in Love with God](https://www.thistlebend.org/falling-in-love-with-god/) - Going through Falling in Love Again with Your Lord, I was wracked by the idea that I am not in love with the Lord. I saw that I am in awe of Him and what He has done for us. But I can’t say I love Him with all my heart, mind, and strength. I - [Celebrating the Triumph of Jesus](https://www.thistlebend.org/celebrating-the-triumph-of-jesus/) - Well, I read the first page of our new lesson this morning and had to stop because these thoughts came immediately to me. Don't give up! Don't give in! If we give up, Satan wins. Why are we depressed and despairing when we see our sin? Again I have to confess this must be my - [The Secret to Praise and Thanks](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-secret-to-praise-and-thanks/) - Over the weekend, the subject of praise and thanks kept coming up. It brought back memories of a time when I didn’t even know how to be in prayer and give any kind of sacrifice of praise and thanks to my King. I would get so down about it. I would get down on my - [Constant Reminders](https://www.thistlebend.org/7001-2/) - Beginning the study Falling in Love Again with Your Lord could not have come at a more perfect time. I have a two month old and, oh buddy, has that little dude thrown me for a major loop. I don’t know why this surprises me in the slightest, but things have just not been what - [What Does It Look Like?](https://www.thistlebend.org/what-does-it-look-like/) - Many of us are visual people. We live in an intensely visual society. I know that I am a visual person and by that, I mean, I learn most effectively when I can see what it is I am trying to learn. When my kids were young, I have fond memories (not!) of having to build - [Dependence on the Lord](https://www.thistlebend.org/dependence-on-the-lord/) - This morning a good friend texted me this passage: I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. Already you are clean because of the word - [Part of My Life? Or My Everything?](https://www.thistlebend.org/part-of-my-life-or-my-everything/) - I am being tested in ways I never imagined these last few weeks. All of this is happening while we are studying and looking in depth at what earnestly seeking the Lord looks like. I didn’t truly know what earnestly seeking Him would entail. The little I did know seemed to be for the really - [The Authority Is His](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-authority-is-his/) - It is so easy to get swept away in today’s political war. I can feel my flesh burning with anger when I think of our candidates. My mind races about all of the possibilities that could occur if either of these candidates are elected. It is not until I stop and pray that I realize - [When Clothes Talk](https://www.thistlebend.org/when-clothes-talk/) - Do your clothes talk to you too? Are they constantly telling you, you need something new? Mine do. They say I don’t have anything to wear; Even though they know my closet is far from bare. They tell me I just don’t look quite right. Although, if I had something new, I might. You need - [A Choice](https://www.thistlebend.org/a-choice/) - I made a choice today, And it’s not something I’m proud of, sad to say. It happened in an instant, before my very eyes; I did not choose to honor God, Instead I listened to Satan’s lies. I chose to serve my flesh and not the Most High. I walked the road of selfishness, being - [A Girl, a Hat, a Heart](https://www.thistlebend.org/a-girl-a-hat-a-heart/) - I saw my heart today and it was not a pretty sight. My Father, in his mercy, showed me that my heart is not quite right. You see, there was a little girl, and she wore a pretty hat. Not just any hat, mind you; but a beautiful hat that made her look just that! - [The Grumpy Bug](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-grumpy-bug/) - Some days he just shows up without warning. We can wake up happy and have a great morning; And then he is there; and it feels like it’s storming. The Grumpy Bug is back; he has come to steal our joy. He silently creeps in to carry out his ploy. What exactly is the reason - [God, You Are My God](https://www.thistlebend.org/god-you-are-my-god/) - God is so good! I am so excited that our fall Bible Study has started! It is truly a highlight of my week to study God’s Word alongside my Thistlebend sisters! Our study this semester is Falling in Love Again with Your Lord. The study was written by Laurie to help women to desire and - [Confessions of a Pack Rat](https://www.thistlebend.org/confessions-of-a-pack-rat/) - I had thought that I lived with a beautiful family of five, Until I realized there was another living inside. He’s here, he’s real, and he’s rather large; Taking up way too much space in my mind, my heart, and even my garage. He was tricky, I have to say. I did not see him - [Rest in the Lord](https://www.thistlebend.org/thbitgbloomblog16091816kbn-rest-in-the-lord/) - The Thistlebend study In the Garden is a prayer study. It is designed to help the reader journey to a deeper place of prayer. Each day of the four week study is different but based on a similar format. Each day, we read and meditate on one of the Ten Commandments. Many people think the - [A Prayer for Healing](https://www.thistlebend.org/a-prayer-for-healing/) - Lord, I oftentimes wonder why you allow things to happen. The past 24 hours for example -- you allowed me to trip while holding my two month old. You allowed a fractured skull. You allowed a fractured elbow. You allowed a nail in our tire the same day we are walking through all of these other - [Openly Sharing My Faith](https://www.thistlebend.org/openly-sharing-my-faith/) - I have noticed more than ever that I have been openly sharing my faith. I remember a time when I would get nervous just to share anything that had to do with my faith. I can vividly recall moments when I had this huge obstacle I felt like I could never get over because I was - [Letting God Take Care of Me](https://www.thistlebend.org/letting-god-take-care-of-me/) - Several months ago, my husband was scheduled to have major surgery. The surgery was canceled at the last minute because of an insurance issue. But by the grace of God, my husband was able to reschedule his surgery (with the approval of our insurance), and we are now in countdown mode. I read through the - [Be Not Far From Me](https://www.thistlebend.org/thbmsnbloomblogitg18-080816amc/) - Family conflict is horrible. When the strain and awkwardness runs on for years you began to pray, “Is this ever going to end, Lord? I try and follow you, and it just seems no reconciliation is happening. I thought you would answer my prayers by now?” But He doesn’t. He hasn’t allowed me to see - [Under My Makeup](https://www.thistlebend.org/under-my-makeup/) - Who am I under my makeup? Am I someone who’s afraid to be seen Or am I a daughter of the King? Who am I under my makeup? Am I someone who’s afraid to be real? Or have I been marked by the Holy Spirit’s seal? Who am I under my makeup? Am I someone - [Wanting Purpose](https://www.thistlebend.org/wanting-purpose/) - Have you ever felt like you just haven’t done much with your life? Have you ever prayed, “God am I ever going to be more than what I am now?” I have been in a struggle with these two thoughts all week long. I know, I know, I just blogged about giving my dreams and - [Letting Go of Shame](https://www.thistlebend.org/letting-go-of-shame/) - Recently, I found myself filling out an employment application – the first one I had filled out in many years. I’ve worked inside my home for many years. In fact, the life I lived before my husband and children is a life I don’t think about very often. It feels like a different person lived - [No Condemnation](https://www.thistlebend.org/no-condemnation/) - “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Rom. 8:1). If I really allow myself to sit and think about the past few weeks and the way I have been acting it is very easy to feel like a complete failure. My quiet times have been slim to none and - [Love Never Fails](https://www.thistlebend.org/love-never-fails-2/) - Love is a choice; it’s not a feeling. Love chooses the gentle and quiet spirit over the screaming. Love is an action; it is a verb. Love never chooses the selfish way; instead, love follows God’s Word. The Lord says that love is patient and kind. Love never says, “Hey, that’s mine!” Love is slow - [A Light to My Path](https://www.thistlebend.org/a-lamp-to-my-feet/) - For the past several weeks, we have had a bizarre electrical problem that involves just a few outlets – and our master bedroom closet. Because the closet has a window, we can see during the day. But when it’s early or the light of day has faded, we have to use a flashlight to see. - [Cut Those Heart Strings](https://www.thistlebend.org/cut-those-heart-strings/) - I need to remind myself every single day that what the Lord commands of us He enables us to do and provides all that we need. I can so easily get into performance mode, but that is not the gospel. In Deuteronomy 10 beginning in verse 12 it says, "And now Israel, what does the - [Writer's Block and Tested Hearts](https://www.thistlebend.org/thbmsnbloomblogitg5-080316kas/) - Sitting down to write this post has been extremely challenging for me. I have sat down time after time to begin writing it or to finish writing it yet somehow the words just wouldn't come together. As crazy as it sounds, it has been truly impossible for me to put my thoughts down on the - [An Affair of the Heart](https://www.thistlebend.org/an-affair-of-the-heart/) - An affair, you say? No, I would never let that come my way. I love my husband; he's the only man for me. An affair, you say? No, it would never occur to me. I love my man; my heart wouldn't look to another. My husband is the best; he's my friend and my lover. - [Honoring Parents](https://www.thistlebend.org/honoring-parents/) - “Honor your father and your mother, as the Lord your God commanded you, that your days may be long, and that it may go well with you in the land that the Lord your God is giving you” (Deut. 5:16). Having done In the Garden before, I knew this commandment was coming. I thought, maybe I can - [Half-Filled Boxes and Grace](https://www.thistlebend.org/half-filled-boxes-and-grace/) - A week ago I went to a pot luck of a dear friend whose family was getting ready to move. They host this pot luck every Sunday and this particular Sunday was the last one at their current home. As I’ve mentioned before, I like to have things in order. I really don’t know how - [A Campaign for Eternity](https://www.thistlebend.org/a-campaign-for-eternity/) - Merriam Webster's dictionary defines a campaign as: 1. a connected series of military operations forming a distinct phase of a war 2. a connected series of operations designed to bring about a particular result This is a campaign year. As a country, we are besieged by campaign activity as we move closer to electing a new - [If You Ever Feel Like a Broken Record](https://www.thistlebend.org/if-you-ever-feel-like-a-broken-record/) - To be completely honest, this blog post is really hard to write, mainly because I feel that I keep saying the same things over and over again. I was about to write about how through the In the Garden study so far I have been so convicted about my love for this world, my love - [Mercy and Surrender](https://www.thistlebend.org/mercy-and-surrender/) - You know that saying that you want something "so bad you can taste it"? That's me. I have this propensity to get so caught up in my hopes and dreams that this is all I can see, think about, or want. I often pushed aside my relationship with Christ. Whenever we would talk about laying - [Fellowship and Transparency](https://www.thistlebend.org/fellowship-and-transparency/) - Have you ever looked around and wondered, how did I get here? Not in a bad way, but in a way that makes you stop and just say, “Wow, thank you, Jesus.” I did the other day. To give you a little back story on this. In September 2016 it will be exactly two years - [Completely Calm](https://www.thistlebend.org/completely-calm/) - Before Jesus saved us it is a biblical truth that we were following the course of the world and the prince of the power of the air (Eph. 2:2). Psalm 1 shows us this truth as well. We walked according to the counsel of the wicked, which then caused us to stand in the way - [The Fearful World We Live In](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-fearful-world-we-live-in/) - Lately with all that has been going on in the news and in our communities I have been finding myself in fear. Not like the fear of what others think, or the kind of fear that comes from disappointing someone you love. I am speaking of fear for my future. This fear feels like it - [Feel Good Quiet Times?](https://www.thistlebend.org/feel-good-quiet-times/) - Sometimes I have those quiet times with the Lord where I just feel like I love Him and I feel close to Him. Everything around me is just beautiful--the sun is rising, the birds are chirping. I woke up on time and I don’t feel rushed and it’s like the Scriptures I’m reading just make - [Fear, Guilt, Apathy](https://www.thistlebend.org/fear-guilt-apathy/) - I must admit I am a little anxious starting up this study In the Garden. The Lord helped me pinpoint a few reasons this morning. I have a fear of failing. Last summer when I participated in a Thistlebend study I had a one year old with very erratic sleeping habits and very early morning awakenings and - [The Most Important Legacy](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-most-important-legacy/) - Since I wrote my last blog, so much has changed. I am a year older, a first time home owner, but most of all I suffered the loss of my grandfather. All this has happened within a weeks’ time period. As I type about this week I ask that you be in prayer for me. - [In Control?](https://www.thistlebend.org/in-control/) - “I call upon you, for you will answer me, O God” (Psa. 17:6). “I don’t like limits,” my 12 year old said in response to the pediatrician’s suggestions regarding screen time. The pediatrician was taken aback but responded professionally. She said she understood how people (like my child) who struggle with anxiety like to feel - [Momentary Circumstances](https://www.thistlebend.org/momentary-circumstances/) - So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are - [The Greatest Undeserved Gift](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-greatest-undeserved-gift/) - Over the weekend my husband and I got some very exciting news and it has been continuing and keeping us on our toes ever since. We have truly been in awe of the Lord’s grace and what it appears He is unfolding and preparing for us. While what is occurring has brought so much praise - [A Prayer for Trust](https://www.thistlebend.org/a-prayer-for-trust/) - Heavenly Father, These are your words. This is your gospel. The good and great news that there is freedom and forgiveness and grace and mercy for sinners who deserve nothing but condemnation, eternal punishment, wrath and anger. You are all powerful! You rule over all. You are King. You stood as King at the flood. - [Relinquishing Control](https://www.thistlebend.org/relinquishing-control/) - I prayed the following prayer several mornings ago, "Lord, thank you for another day. Thank you that I can trust you fully..." I continued journaling but heard a quiet whisper in my spirit, "But do you really trust me?" I ignored the whisper as I continued praying thanks to the Lord but the whisper wouldn't go - [Woe Is Me](https://www.thistlebend.org/woe-is-me/) - Have you ever sarcastically said, “Woe is me”? I think back and I definitely have said it on more than one occasion. Actually, I am pretty sure I have used that as an expression to sarcastically indicate someone else’s “sad” situation more than any other time. But it just so happens that it was used - ["Fearless" in a Fearful World](https://www.thistlebend.org/fearless-in-a-fearful-world/) - I watch very little television. But I do like “The Voice.” It is fascinating to me to watch the contestants’ journeys of artistic growth. A few seasons ago, I was very impressed by a young woman named Christina Grimmie. She was very talented, creative, and spirited. Last week, I stared at my computer in utter - [Lifting Up Feelings](https://www.thistlebend.org/lifting-up-feelings/) - In my continued flood of different emotions during the season I find myself in, most of them feelings I did not expect at all, I typed this prayer out to the Lord at work in desperation over what was going through my mind, everything but His truth. I’m thankful I was given grace to cry out - [A Prayer of Thanks](https://www.thistlebend.org/a-prayer-of-thanks/) - Abba Father, You have done it all! You have given me everything. All I need is Christ. And He cannot be taken from me! I am so safe and secure in your loving arms. I am no longer in bondage to the enemy. You set me free! You rescued me because you delighted in me - [It's Not Irresponsible to Trust the Lord](https://www.thistlebend.org/its-not-irresponsible-to-trust-the-lord/) - I’ve recently been drawn to the song “No Longer Slaves” by Jonathan David and Melissa Helser. There’s a part in the song where louder than any other lines they sing, “You split the sea so I could walk right through it, my fears are drowned in perfect love. You rescue me so I can stand - [Believing...for Real](https://www.thistlebend.org/believing-for-real/) - Heavenly Father, you are for real. Your Word is proof. It is all the proof I need. It is not made up, it is not pretend, or a lie. Jesus was real. People were eyewitnesses and recorded their testimony. They were put to death because of their testimony. Sin is real. Heaven and hell are - [Trusting God's Plan](https://www.thistlebend.org/trusting-gods-plan/) - I find that I have so many questions. God, what is your plan for me? I think about Psalm 86:15: “But you, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.” I think on this because it is God who sustains me. I am reading through - [The Busy Season](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-busy-season/) - As I’ve mentioned before, my husband and I have quite a few changes coming our way in a little under 12 weeks, but who’s counting? Lord willing, we will have a new baby, be in a new house, and my job situation will be different as well. Many things are up in the air—when we - [Is Prayer Important?](https://www.thistlebend.org/is-prayer-important/) - Several months ago, a friend posted on Facebook about a current-events situation that seemed pretty bleak. One of his friends responded that we needed to pray for those involved. My friend's response: "Why? Prayer doesn't change anything." This week, in the Fearless devotional, we looked at prayer...and not just anyone's prayer life. Jesus’ prayer life. Jesus, in - [A Prayer to the One Who Answers](https://www.thistlebend.org/a-prayer-to-the-one-who-answers/) - Abba Father, You are the One who answers prayers. Your Word tells me this is true and you don't lie. You are faithful and true. You hear me, you hear my cry, you know my thoughts, before a word is on my tongue, behold you know it completely! You hem me in behind and before. - [Secret Society](https://www.thistlebend.org/secret-society/) - It seems to be the church in America is like a secret society. A masquerade. We exalt ourselves secretly in our hearts and minds. We dress up in nice clothes, paint our nails, put on our make up and do our hair, and pretend we are good. It's all a performance. A sham. A pretense. - [Just Confessing](https://www.thistlebend.org/just-confessing/) - I was convicted after not spending much time to think through a lesson I had just finished in the Fearless study today. I opened this study up following a pretty emotional day the day before. To give you just a brief snap shot of what yesterday looked like—my husband and I got back into town from - [Planning for Repentance](https://www.thistlebend.org/planning-for-repentance/) - “Either make the tree good and its fruit good, or make the tree bad and its fruit bad, for the tree is known by its fruit” (Matt. 12:33-34). This week, one of our discussion questions asked us to read Matthew 12:33 and share whether we saw any similarities between ourselves and the Pharisees, who knew how - [Fear of Failing as a Mom](https://www.thistlebend.org/fear-of-failing-as-a-mom/) - Fear. It is so insidious, so deceptive. It can bind us, shackle us, keep us tied up by shame and guilt and regret…because often it looks responsible and mature. The Lord has been revealing more to me about my fear as I have been working through the Fearless study. This time He has been powerfully speaking to me - [The Grace of God and Midnight Rage](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-grace-of-god-and-midnight-rage/) - It may sound silly, but it can almost become second nature to avoid sharing the hard things. You can become REALLY good at sweeping the harder things under the rug, all while managing to share just enough. I say all of this because I was strongly convicted of this very thing. It’s not that I - [Is It Wrong to Be Proud?](https://www.thistlebend.org/is-it-wrong-to-be-proud/) - Spring brings flowers and showers and many rites of passage! In recent weeks, Facebook seems full of photos of school dances, graduations, and end-of-the-school year events. This is a very busy time of year. For those of us with school-aged children, we are wrapping up another school year, and that always involves reaching – and - [Gospel Christians](https://www.thistlebend.org/gospel-christians/) - Galatians 4:9 says, “But now that you have come to know God, or rather to be known by God, how can you turn back again to the weak and worthless elementary principles of the world, whose slaves you want to be once more?” This was one of the Scriptures I read earlier this morning from - [Shattered by God](https://www.thistlebend.org/shattered-by-god/) - Over the summer Thistlebend is doing something new while there is a break between studies; they’re offering books to read that will encourage those reading to keep their minds and lives centered on the Lord. Throughout the summer there will be a few times for anyone participating to come together and discuss what the Lord - [In Every Season](https://www.thistlebend.org/in-every-season/) - "For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven" (Eccl. 3:1-8). We are told that every year we experience four seasons: Autumn, Winter, Spring, and Summer. If you live in Kentucky sometimes you can experience every season in one day. As a Christian, I also know I will experience many spiritual - [The Whole Gospel](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-whole-gospel/) - This past week I finished up the remarkably written book by Greg Gilbert titled What is The Gospel? I know I mentioned this in the last post, but I had different emotions when it came to reading a set of books that I generally categorized as “those books” in my mind. The type of books - [Comparing](https://www.thistlebend.org/comparing/) - I can't help but laugh at this 1 minute video. The sermon that Pastor Andy Stanley preaches following this introduction video is even more accurate and truth filled -- it is entirely too easy to fall into the comparison trap. While walking through the Heart of a Woman study this past semester, the Lord revealed - [Praying Isaiah 45](https://www.thistlebend.org/praying-isaiah-45/) - Heavenly Father, You are the Lord and there is no other. There is none besides you. You repeated this to me five times this morning! You are God and therefore your promises can and must be believed. You are sovereign over all. Forgive my doubts and unbelief, Lord! An ESV study note says, "putting God under suspicious - [Reading and Learning](https://www.thistlebend.org/reading-and-learning/) - I wasn’t even sure what I was going to share with you about my journey while reading the book What Is the Gospel? At first I wanted to unload all of these cool pieces that were starting to come together for me. But I was insecure about how to articulate all of this. I was - [God Helps Us Trust Him](https://www.thistlebend.org/god-helps-us-trust-him/) - The Thistlebend winter/spring study, Heart of a Woman, came to a close a few weeks ago. We were given several great options to continue to study God’s Word until our summer study begins. Since the Heart of a Woman study revealed to me how much of my sinful thoughts, actions, and behaviors are rooted in - [A Prayer of Thanks and Dedication](https://www.thistlebend.org/a-prayer-of-thanks-and-dedication/) - Abba Father, You are all powerful. You are the Mighty Creator of the heavens and earth. You created everything from nothing with just a word and you sustain all things by the word of your power. Thank you for your Word. Thank you for calling me by name, and your calling on my life -- - [Expressing Love for God](https://www.thistlebend.org/expressing-love-for-god/) - I met a man who enjoyed his job so much that joy radiated out of him. He made me think, do I show my love for the Lord like this man shows his love for his job? "And he answered, 'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and - [Storms](https://www.thistlebend.org/storms/) - There’s a line in a Casting Crowns song titled, “Just be Held,” that the Lord keeps reminding me of lately. It says, “If your eyes are on the storm you wonder if I love you still, but if your eyes are on the cross you know I always have and I always will.” As I - [Learning Everything All Over Again](https://www.thistlebend.org/learning-everything-all-over-again/) - Heart of a Woman study has concluded, and something really amazing has happened. If you know me personally, then you would know that my whole life I have identified as a Christian. But in this study I have found that I am a fairly new believer. This has been a pivotal moment in my life. - [The Vine and the Vinedresser](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-vine-and-the-vinedresser/) - Good morning sweet sisters in Christ! You all just came to my mind as I sit here working on Day 3 of my Fearless study. I must confess as I come to the bottom of the page and it says, "Read John 15 before you close," I could physically feel my flesh once again inwardly - [A Harvest of Righteousness](https://www.thistlebend.org/a-harvest-of-righteousness/) - What an incredible gift from the Lord we were given at Shaker Village this past week. What a way to end our Heart of a Woman study at this beautiful location. I believe it was just the day before that my weather app called for a 90% chance of rain. Yet no rain came. To - [Admitting Sin](https://www.thistlebend.org/admitting-sin/) - This week marked the end to our Heart of a Woman study. I was sad to see it come to an end! The study was hard work, but the results were noticeable! Every woman in my Small Group shared that their lives had been impacted by the study in very real ways. This may sound - [Doing Things Christ's Way](https://www.thistlebend.org/doing-things-christs-way/) - Lesson 9 of Heart of a Woman, "Tenderly Tending: Speaking the Truth in Love," was probably the most confronting lesson in the entire study for me! But glory to God! I am excited to share what the Lord is doing through this lesson. Most of all, through this lesson I was reminded that there is a - [Fruit from a Root, All to His Glory](https://www.thistlebend.org/fruit-from-a-root-all-to-his-glory/) - Glory-stealer. That is the term that has been rolling around in my heart and mind the last few days. Laurie’s warning to us as she wrapped up our Heart of a Woman study was very convicting. She said we can produce “fruit” by our flesh, that may appear good and beautiful to others, but it draws attention to - [Fear, Thorns, and Faith](https://www.thistlebend.org/fear-thorns-and-faith/) - Every time I’ve gone through a Thistlebend study, the Lord typically has some type of theme for me. As we’re coming to a close of this Heart of Woman study, I’ve been thinking of what that theme is. I have a lot of fear and I have little discipline. Obviously this is not a full - [Loved and Known](https://www.thistlebend.org/loved-and-known/) - The Lord gave me a gift tonight. My sister-in-law posted this video on Facebook and somehow it gave me a comforting perspective. (Here is the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jfSNxVqprvM) I am loved and known. In my littleness, weakness, and frailty the Lord, the great I AM sees me and knows me...and suddenly that is all that matters. - [Faith, Not Works](https://www.thistlebend.org/faith-not-works/) - Lesson 8 of Heart of a Woman was such an encouragement to me! It helped me to comprehend just what “Faith apart from works is dead” means. I didn’t understand just how wrong I was looking at this all. My goodness, I didn’t realize just how much of my thinking was truly geared towards earning favor - [Resting in the Promise of Healing](https://www.thistlebend.org/resting-in-the-promise-of-healing/) - More than likely at some point in your life, you have become aware of something in your life that you needed to do something about. Maybe you went to the doctor because of a nagging pain in your knee. Maybe you pursued a new job because your previous one was not rewarding. Maybe you have - [Standing with God by Faith](https://www.thistlebend.org/standing-with-god-by-faith/) - I’m not afraid to say the name Jesus! Why would I be afraid to say the name Jesus? Fear, that is the only reason why. Fear of what man will think. My husband and I went to see God’s not Dead 2 and it brought out so many thoughts and questions. I won’t ruin the - [Saying No to Feelings](https://www.thistlebend.org/saying-no-to-feelings/) - Through this whole Heart of a Woman study the Lord is having me think about focus and perspective. It’s basically all I have been writing about. And my flesh, even in this moment, wants me to feel shame and guilt because we’re going on lesson eight now and I’m still talking about and failing at the - [Living for God Rather Than "Likes"](https://www.thistlebend.org/living-for-god-rather-than-likes/) - I scroll through my Instagram feed and I feel my flesh growing sad. As I look at all the photos I catch myself gazing into the lives of so many people and comparing my life to theirs. I catch myself yearning for what they have. I’m jealous that they are more well “liked” than I - [One Step at a Time](https://www.thistlebend.org/one-step-at-a-time/) - Just take one more step. Laurie’s lecture this week really hit me between the eyes because well…I just give in to my flesh all the time. I decide to sit or lay down instead of taking the next step, or look at the million steps I need to take and become paralyzed by fear. I wonder what all - [Things We Idolize](https://www.thistlebend.org/things-we-idolize/) - The Lord has been allowing me to work out my salvation with fear and trembling as the Heart of a Woman study asked us to initiate a fast. Several things came to mind that I could give up, but the Lord kept taking me back to deleting Instagram, Facebook, and all social media off of my phone - [Feeling His Peace](https://www.thistlebend.org/feeling-his-peace/) - Boiling anger. I let it spill over my top. I did not hold back my wicked tongue, my hateful actions, and my spiteful grudge. I promised myself I would not get this way. Saturday, I had my family over for Easter and it was supposed to be perfect. I had it planned. What could go - [Conviction and Comfort](https://www.thistlebend.org/conviction-and-comfort/) - It's difficult to write the weekly post. I can feel my flesh want to be clever, wanting compliments, wanting God's glory for myself. I know it's the Lord's grace in my life that I write the weekly post because I am forced to do something that otherwise I would not do, namely, think these things through. - [Dealing with Anger, Part Two](https://www.thistlebend.org/dealing-with-anger-part-two/) - Previously I shared with you all that I would be writing a two part blog. I really just wanted you to be able to see my journey throughout this Heart of a Woman study in a way that wouldn’t be so overwhelming to read through. God has continued to reveal to me more about myself - [Dealing with Anger, Part One](https://www.thistlebend.org/dealing-with-anger-part-one/) - Since being a part of the Bible studies created through Thistlebend, I have been rocked to my core many times. There is no doubt that you are being pushed to search the parts of you that you would like to tuck away in private. I have questioned my walk, I have seen the fruits of - [What My Eyes Are Focused On](https://www.thistlebend.org/what-my-eyes-are-focused-on/) - Laurie said in her lecture this past week on repentance something along the lines of, if we don’t have a defined plan to put our sin to death, we’re not really serious about our sin. The Lord allowed me to see that I don’t take my sin seriously. Sure, when I see my sin and - [Minimizing Sin?](https://www.thistlebend.org/minimizing-sin/) - "Aww shucks, I just rolled my eyes." That's what I wrote down, because that is what I think. Surely rolling eyes just isn't that big a deal? Is it even a sin? Ok, maybe a small sin? It's just so easy to justify. To ignore, deny, sweep under the rug, and minimize. Oh how easily - [Overcoming Shopping](https://www.thistlebend.org/overcoming-shopping/) - Where do I begin? I would describe myself as overwhelmed with emotions. At the beginning of this week, I was so ready to take on my fast of shopping. I was only going to buy things I needed such as toiletries and groceries. Worldly possessions had begun to rule over my heart. I would constantly - [Taking Sin by the Roots](https://www.thistlebend.org/taking-sin-by-the-roots/) - Oh, how challenging, rewarding, hard, helpful, illuminating, thought-provoking, revealing, impactful, life-changing, and heart-piercing this Heart of a Woman study has been! I love it! The format is so unique. I love the daily homework. I have enjoyed the Scriptures we’ve been provided to pray through each day. It’s new to me to ask the Lord - [Fasting Makeup](https://www.thistlebend.org/fasting-makeup/) - Last week and into this week our Heart of a Woman study called us to initiate a fast for the Lord. To purposely give up something you love for a certain amount of time just never sounds fun. It’s like I could almost feel my flesh cringe as I read about fasting and what it - [The Real Deal](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-real-deal/) - In a lecture I listened to a few weeks ago, the main topic was confession. One of the things Laurie encouraged us to do in order to put our old sinner girl to death and live from our new identity in Christ was to be honest with ourselves about our sin, confess our sin, and - [Bible Study for Real Life](https://www.thistlebend.org/bible-study-for-real-life/) - It's interesting to me as I sit here preparing to write to you that I'm realizing that somewhere down in my heart and mind remains the notion that Bible study is an activity on my calendar; an item on my checklist; just one item among many that I am supposed to do. I go to - [Areas of Surrender](https://www.thistlebend.org/areas-of-surrender/) - Am I really willing to pick up my cross and carry it for Jesus? After this week’s Heart of a Woman lecture, the following hymn came to mind: "I surrender all, I surrender all. All to Thee, my blessed Savior, I surrender all." I was very convicted by Laurie’s lecture. She plainly asked us where - [Confidence and Praise](https://www.thistlebend.org/confidence-and-praise/) - Praise has been a major theme on my mind the past few months. I haven’t felt great the last few months either. I’ve been tired, I’ve been nauseous, I’ve gotten sick, and life really hasn’t gone the way I expected it to at all. Almost every day, at some point, over the last few months - [Because I Am a New Creation](https://www.thistlebend.org/because-i-am-a-new-creation/) - Waking up to another week and another to-do list that fills up the page. Walk the dog. Check. Grocery. Check. Head to work. Check. Driving down the road with a million thoughts and what seems like a million things to do and I realize, I didn't even spend time with the Lord this morning. Then the - [Praying with a Stranger](https://www.thistlebend.org/praying-with-a-stranger/) - Three years ago, I would never have considered asking my server at a restaurant if I could pray for him or her. Even though I was a Christian and prayed regularly, I lacked awareness of how to pray in the moment – especially for others. I also lacked courage. I would have been so concerned - [Turning from the Grievous Way](https://www.thistlebend.org/turning-from-the-grievous-way/) - To whom will I bow and serve today? Christ or Self? There really are only two choices aren't there? That was something I saw this week as we continue to pray through Psalm 139. "And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting" (Psa. 139:24). Flesh vs. - [Finding Identity](https://www.thistlebend.org/finding-identity/) - As I go through Heart of a Woman so far I’ve been faced with many questions that I honestly don’t want to answer. Asking God to search my heart, but not only to search my heart, but to try it too—that’s extremely difficult for me. I love order. I love everything to be “perfectly” in - [Raising His Banner--in Prayer](https://www.thistlebend.org/raising-his-banner-in-prayer/) - This week while going through the study Heart of a Woman I found my flesh resisting prayer at every turn. But as the week went on I dove more into the prayer lives of great men who worshiped the same God. How eloquently did they display their affection for God through prayer? I found myself - [Walking with Gratitude](https://www.thistlebend.org/gospel-moments-23-conclusion-walking-with-gratitude-in-his-righteousness/) - Walking with Gratitude in His Righteousness Let's review and reflect as we conclude the Gospel eMoments. Genesis 1:1 In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. God is God. The fact that He is the God of creation means that He is Lord of all. Genesis 1:27 So God created man in his - [Grace for the Details](https://www.thistlebend.org/grace-for-the-details/) - This was my thought today… "everything is sweeter with Jesus." I know this sounds perhaps cheesy or cliché, but it really hit me as a distinct reality tonight. I love Charles Spurgeon's quote from our homework this past week: "If you are a child of God, you will see your Father's face and live in your - [Do I Believe That...](https://www.thistlebend.org/do-i-believe-that/) - So last week in the lecture for Lesson 5 of Heart of a Woman -- "A Holy Fast: Fasting to Feast," we were posed with many questions towards the end that definitely stuck with me through Lesson 6. Listed below you can find some of these questions. I definitely encourage you to go through them, - [Thoughts from That Moment](https://www.thistlebend.org/thoughts-from-that-moment/) - Before we start our journey together I ask that you take a minute to stop and pray. My prayer is, “Lord, please give us eyes to see, and a mind to take in whatever it is that you may have for us today. May you give us strength and grant us the grace that we - [Thistlebend Discipleship App](https://www.thistlebend.org/thistlebend-discipleship-app/) - If you haven't yet, check out our Thistlebend Discipleship App! Here you will find resources that call, equip, and encourage women to live out the gospel. Download the app today! Thistlebend Discipleship App - [Unbelief](https://www.thistlebend.org/unbelief/) - by Susan Sampson At the beginning of our study Beyond Belief on page 15 it says, "John wants us to have a sure confidence in the Lord, a certainty about His love and His salvation. Such a confidence will enable us to encounter the unexpected with faith, joy, and love and to overcome and not - [Standing on the Precipice](https://www.thistlebend.org/standing-on-the-precipice/) - My Dear Precious Children, Even though I am not quite old enough to be your mother (haha), I love you all as if you were my flesh and blood. Several years ago as we faced an ever lengthening adoption process, a dear friend shared that she believed God had given me spiritually adopted children to - [God's Word Must Be the Final Word](https://www.thistlebend.org/gods-word-must-be-the-final-word/) - by Susan Sampson "For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world - our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world except the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?" (1 John 5:4-5) "Little children, you are from God - [The Struggle to Believe God's Love](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-struggle-to-believe-gods-love/) - by Susan Sampson How do I take the truth that God is love and He loves me to heart and believe it and abide in that love? I honestly don't know how to write about this because this continues to be a struggle for me - believing God loves me and living and resting in - [Headstrong?](https://www.thistlebend.org/headstrong/) - by Susan Sampson Have you noticed (or am I the only one who does this?) that there are certain Scriptures that you really only think apply to your children? Philippians 2:14 I realize is one of these for me: "Do all things without grumbling or questioning." But Thursday this really hit home. Laurie told us - [Battling for Truth. Battling with Truth.](https://www.thistlebend.org/battling-for-truth/) - by Susan Sampson We fight for truth by believing the truth and obeying the truth and not relying on our own insight--even when we don't feel like it. Jesus wants the truth to be forged in us. "Behold, you delight in truth in the inward being" (Psa. 51:6a). Truth being forged. I am reminded of - [Guarded by Jesus](https://www.thistlebend.org/guarded-by-jesus/) - by Susan Sampson "True fellowship with God begins not only when we lay everything down but when we let down our guard because we believe" (Beyond Belief, pg. 67). When I read this it was like a light dawned for me. I've always known that I have struggled with self-protection, but for some reason the - [Practical Unbelief](https://www.thistlebend.org/practical-unbelief/) - by Susan Sampson Stop and think. This is what stood out to me from the recent Beyond Belief lecture. Stop and think. So many times the verse in James that says be slow to speak, quick to listen, and slow to become angry (James 1:19) has come into my mind and yet I still struggle - [No Darkness at All](https://www.thistlebend.org/no-darkness-at-all/) - by Angie This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. (1 John 1:5) I just pulled myself off the floor after a confession session with the Lord and let me just tell you, I am SO thankful for - [External and Internal...Crap](https://www.thistlebend.org/external-and-internal-crap/) - by Susan Sampson Well I never thought I would be told I was full of crap when I went to a Bible study! But it happened in a recent Beyond Belief lecture. But how incredibly helpful and freeing as I really try to think this through. I completely identified when Laurie said we walk into church and look - [Something in Your Teeth?](https://www.thistlebend.org/something-in-your-teeth/) - by Susan Samson Have you ever had a piece of dark colored food stuck between your front teeth for all the world to see? Typically you find out about it in one of two ways. Either, you look in the mirror at some point and see it or another person points it out. And, for - [To the Ladies, upon the Completion of a Semester of Study](https://www.thistlebend.org/to-the-ladies-upon-the-completion-of-a-semester-of-study/) - My Fellow Sojourners, As we wrap us this prayer study, you have been on my heart, and as I was praying for you, the Lord laid something very precious and powerful on my heart to share with you. It is very important and I pray you would take the time to read this message in - [The Remedy of the Word](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-remedy-of-the-word/) - by Susan Sampson It is an interesting thing to see our own sin. It can be so deeply painful, yet truly it is beautiful evidence of the grace of God in our lives. Without being given eyes to see our sin, we don't see our Savior either. If we had no sin, we have no - [Resisting Temptation](https://www.thistlebend.org/resisting-temptation/) - by Susan Sampson Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. John Piper said, "There is no moment of your life that is not a moment of temptation--a moment when unbelief and disobedience is not a possibility." When I heard this statement I thought, "Yes, that is so right, so true," and then - [The Spirit Is Willing...](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-spirit-is-willing/) - You know sometimes a switch is flipped and God’s truth is given new life, clarity, and power in your life. I had that privilege recently as we sat listening to the week’s lecture. His truth about my identity as a new creation and child of God shot through my performance-based faith and gave me new hope - [The Gospel and Sin](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-gospel-and-sin/) - by Susan Sampson The gospel of Jesus Christ is such good news precisely because apart from His free gift of saving grace, we were under a rightly deserved death sentence, which of course is incredibly bad news. Through our sin we were indebted to God. A debt we could not pay back, no matter how - [God at the Center](https://www.thistlebend.org/god-at-the-center/) - His Kingdom. Not mine. I had a rude awakening last week as God gently reminded me of this reality. I woke up feeling anxious with a “to-do” list for the day that seemed completely impossible. I went through my prayer time and definitely felt some of the heaviness lift as I offered praise and thanksgiving - [Lean on the Lord](https://www.thistlebend.org/lean-on-the-lord/) - by Susan Sampson Give us this day our daily bread. I am so thankful to the Lord for the word "lean." Laurie shared in a lecture that our overarching theme is placing our trust, faith, and focus on God. She explained that trust means "to lean on." Can you hear the song, "Lean on Me"? - [Prayer and Bikes](https://www.thistlebend.org/prayer-and-bikes/) - by Angie Thomas The Lord brought this verse to mind this evening as I began to write the weekly email and it was exactly the encouragement my heart needed: "And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ" (Phil. 1:4). Isn't that - [Learning to Pray](https://www.thistlebend.org/learning-to-pray/) - by Susan Sampson Prone to wander, Lord I feel it! Prone to leave the God I love! Come, Lord Jesus, fountain of every blessing, and tune my heart to sing your grace. I am a debtor to your grace. I was dead in my trespasses and sins in which I once walked, following the course of - [Growing in Prayer](https://www.thistlebend.org/growing-in-prayer/) - by Susan Sampson My husband and I dated long distance before we were married. I lived in Houston and he lived here. That was before cell phones and texting. I was thinking about how long we used to talk on the phone together. It was hours, many times til the wee hours of the night. - [The Fight in the Quiet of the Morning](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-fight-in-the-quiet-of-the-morning/) - by Angie Thomas I was deeply moved as we prayed together on our knees the other week. It was so powerful to hear all the prayers of praise and thanksgiving as we poured out our hearts to Him. I believe it was a taste and a glimpse of what it will be like when we - [God's Love...or Lists?](https://www.thistlebend.org/gods-love-or-lists/) - by Susan Sampson Jesus, I want to love you. But I can't. Only you can enable me. "Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever - [The Deadly Foe of Worry](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-deadly-foe-of-worry/) - by Angie Thomas Worry. It is a subtle, insidious sin. It is like a black ninja that stalks us wherever we go. For most of us, it is like a bad habit that we know we should kick, but feel powerless to overcome. We can acknowledge that it wreaks havoc in our lives, causing stress and anxiety, and is - [Sing to the Lord a New Song](https://www.thistlebend.org/sing-to-the-lord-a-new-song/) - by Susan Sampson Sing to the Lord a new song. I always want to encourage you all. That is my heart's desire. This semester has I think been harder than any before in trying to write the weekly email for me. To be honest I struggle to sit myself down at the computer, not knowing - [Rich in Christ](https://www.thistlebend.org/rich-in-christ/) - by Angie Thomas Did you know you are filthy rich?! Before you roll your eyes and start listing off to me your debt versus income and why you most certainly are not rich, hear me out. Perhaps righteously rich would be a better description. This wealth is eternal, never-ending, and directly linked to God’s love - [God or Money?](https://www.thistlebend.org/god-or-money/) - by Susan Sampson "You cannot serve both God and money" (Mat. 7:24). Who is the One true God? Our strength, security, comfort, peace, provider, Savior, Redeemer, deliverer, healer, joy, power, and we could go on and on! What stood out to me most powerfully from the lecture is when Laurie then said, "and money promises - [Exposed](https://www.thistlebend.org/exposed/) - by Angie Thomas Exposed. I came home after Bible study and started crying as I shared with my husband how broken I was over my sin. During the week, the light of the Word had shone brightly on several areas of remaining darkness in my heart and I felt a bit like the adulterous women - [Lord, Turn Me Inside Out](https://www.thistlebend.org/lord-turn-me-inside-out/) - by Susan Sampson Lord, turn me inside out! I could barely get past the first page in this week's lesson. "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within are full of dead people's bones and all uncleanness. So you also outwardly appear righteous to - [True Intimacy](https://www.thistlebend.org/true-intimacy/) - by Susan Sampson Pathway to True Intimacy - "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible" (Matt. 19:26). This journey feels impossible. But feelings cannot be trusted! Feelings are not truth. Only God's promises are to be trusted. As I am confronted again with the wall of self-protection that I have - [Fear and Lack of Vision](https://www.thistlebend.org/fear-and-lack-of-vision/) - by Angie Thomas Fear and Lack of Vision. Both strongly affect our intimacy with Christ. Laurie referred often to Isaiah 54 during a recent lecture, and in this powerful passage we find clear promises addressing these two struggles. PLEASE take time to read this chapter in Isaiah and ask the Holy Spirit to speak to your heart. - [Choosing Love Instead of Anger](https://www.thistlebend.org/choosing-love-instead-of-anger/) - by Susan Sampson Lord, I confess I am angry. Please forgive me. Please have mercy on me. Thank you for this lesson. It was painful to work through, but I thank you for giving me eyes to see my sinful anger. Please give me grace to repent and to put on love and a gentle - [Dealing with Anger](https://www.thistlebend.org/dealing-with-anger/) - I am absolutely not qualified to write this...especially on this week's topic. Anger has been a huge sin struggle for me...especially as of late. As I was praying to the Lord about this and asking Him why or how I could write this...he reminded me that He is glorified in our weaknesses and so - [Pearls](https://www.thistlebend.org/pearls/) - by Angie Thomas "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it. (Matt. 13:45-46). I desperately want to find the pearls of the kingdom of heaven, but I confess that I am - [Valentine's Day](https://www.thistlebend.org/valentines-day/) - by Angie Thomas Valentine's Day...some love it....others dread it or even despise it. As with almost everything in our culture, the uniqueness of a holiday is often lost and misconstrued by commercialism and unrealistic expectations. What if God wanted to really communicate to you His great love for you? We have tossed around the phrase - [Unimaginable](https://www.thistlebend.org/unimaginable/) - by Angie Thomas This is one of my favorite verses: But we impart a secret and hidden wisdom of God, which God decreed before the ages for our glory...but, as it is written,“What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him”... - [Merry Christmas!](https://www.thistlebend.org/merry-christmas/) - by Angie Thomas May the Lord keep you very close to His heart during this very busy and so often very distracting time of year. May we all have eyes to see and ears to hear God's still small voice directing and leading us as we walk through this Christmas season where Satan wants desperately - [Plug into Christ](https://www.thistlebend.org/plug-christ/) - by Susan Sampson The pressure is off! These words of grace minister to my soul. This is the truth I am taking to heart. It's not all on us...it was all on Him! He took all our sin and shame and guilt upon himself. Jesus is our burden bearer. "It is finished," was His victory - [Love Never Fails](https://www.thistlebend.org/love-never-fails/) - What blessings lie behind the door of selfless love? Blessings that are opened to us and to others when we choose to walk by faith and not sight. Will you choose love? Will you walk by faith, die to self, and experience what blessings lie behind the door of selfless love? Love is a choice; - [Right Thinking in the Face of Tragedy](https://www.thistlebend.org/3987/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 13:1-5 ESV There were some present at that very time who told him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. 2 And he answered them, "Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans, because they suffered - [Struggling with Moralism and Legalism](https://www.thistlebend.org/struggling-moralism-legalism/) - by Susan Sampson I had to share this excerpt from one of the recent eMoments because it was so powerful! Laurie quoted a passage from an article by J.I. Packer called "The Heart of the Gospel" which is in the book "In My Place Condemned He Stood: Celebrating the Glory of the Atonement." He writes, "The - [Excerpt from The Hole in Our Holiness](https://www.thistlebend.org/excerpt-hole-holiness/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Hello Again from My Reading Retreat Today's book is: The Hole in Our Holiness by Kevin DeYoung Excerpt from Chapter One. I absolutely, positively, LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this book. I think it is one of the most important books written in the past decade. Kevin has spoken the truth - [In His Strength](https://www.thistlebend.org/strength/) - by Susan Sampson Are you tired? I get tired so easily. On Day 2 Laurie asked the question, "Do you think you might be trying to do things in your own strength?" Yes Lord! Yes! I have been doing things in my own strength!! Ephesians 6:10 tells us, "Finally, be strong in the Lord and - [Walk in Love](https://www.thistlebend.org/walk-love/) - by Susan Sampson Let's see...right now my nail polish is severely chipping; my roots are at least an inch long; school supplies are scattered all over the dining room table; flowers continue to sit in the driveway unplanted; my bed isn't made; my laundry is in a giant mound on the floor; suitcase still out; - [The Gospel of Peace Brings Division](https://www.thistlebend.org/gospel-peace-brings-division/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 12:49-53 ESV "I came to cast fire on the earth, and would that it were already kindled! 50 I have a baptism to be baptized with, and how great is my distress until it is accomplished! 51 Do you think that I have come to give - [Life Is War](https://www.thistlebend.org/life-war/) - by Susan Sampson "Life is war." —John Piper in "Let the Nations Be Glad" I'm sitting in the air conditioned comfort of my home right now, with my daughter out with a friend, my boys in the basement playing x-box, and the dog not barking:) It doesn't feel at this moment of apparent calm that - [Recalibrate](https://www.thistlebend.org/recalibrate/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Psalm 19 ESV 1 The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork. 2 Day to day pours out speech, and night to night reveals knowledge. 3 There is no speech, nor are there words, whose voice is not heard. 4 Their - [On Behalf of Self](https://www.thistlebend.org/behalf-self/) - by Susan Sampson On behalf of self. No, that isn't what God's word says is it? Yet, this is how I live. Recently the Lord brought back to my mind the time when Jeff and I got married, 18 years ago this coming November. After being almost 30 years old and living on my own - [When We Are Scorned](https://www.thistlebend.org/scorned/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 10:1-12 ESV 1 After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them on ahead of him, two by two, into every town and place where he himself was about to go. 2 And he said to them, "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are - [The Grumpy Bug](https://www.thistlebend.org/grumpy-bug/) - by Susan Sampson Some days he just shows up without warning. We can wake up happy and have a great morning; And then he is there; and it feels like it’s storming. The Grumpy Bug is back; he has come to steal our joy. He silently creeps in to carry out his ploy. What exactly - [Pride vs. God's Love](https://www.thistlebend.org/pride-vs-gods-love/) - by Angie Thomas I am so weak. Seriously, so very, very weak and so easily distracted and derailed from walking in a manner worthy of the calling we have received, as Paul urges us in Ephesians 4. In a recent Seeds of Spring lecture, Laurie provided a list of things that can pull at us - [Right Now?](https://www.thistlebend.org/right-now/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 9:57-62 ESV 57 As they were going along the road, someone said to him, "I will follow you wherever you go." 58 And Jesus said to him, "Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay - [Confessions of a Pack Rat](https://www.thistlebend.org/confessions-pack-rat/) - by Susan Sampson I had thought that I lived with a beautiful family of five, Until I realized there was another living inside. He’s here, he’s real, and he is rather large; Taking up way too much space in my mind, my heart, and even my garage. He was tricky, I have to say. I - [Rooted in Love](https://www.thistlebend.org/rooted-love/) - by Angie Thomas One thing that really stuck out to me reading through Ephesians 3 is how deeply Paul wanted the Ephesians to know God's deep, extravagant love for them. He prays in Ephesians 3:17 that they would be "rooted and ground in love." Is your mind continually rooted in the knowledge of God's love - [Be Real](https://www.thistlebend.org/real/) - by Susan Sampson What would they think if they could see? Why do I care so much what they think of me? What is the worst that could happen if they saw; When I am open, vulnerable, and completely raw? What is the worst; why do I fear? Why do I put up these walls - [Right or Righteous?](https://www.thistlebend.org/right-righteous/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 9:51-56 ESV 51 When the days drew near for him to be taken up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem. 52 And he sent messengers ahead of him, who went and entered a village of the Samaritans, to make preparations for him. 53 But the people did not receive him, because his face - ["Better Music"](https://www.thistlebend.org/better-music/) - by Angie Thomas I was really encouraged and challenged by Laurie's teaching this week. I can totally relate to hearing the song of the Siren and being lured by it. It is my flesh, my default. Even though I knew Jesus at a fairly young age I really had no clue how to walk out - [Under My Makeup](https://www.thistlebend.org/makeup/) - by Susan Sampson Who am I under my makeup? Am I someone who’s afraid to be seen? Or am I a daughter of the King? Who am I under my makeup? Am I someone who’s afraid to be real? Or have I been marked by the Holy Spirit’s seal? Who am I under my makeup? - [Let These Words Sink In](https://www.thistlebend.org/let-words-sink/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 9:43-50 ESV 43 And all were astonished at the majesty of God. But while they were all marveling at everything he was doing, Jesus said to his disciples, 44 "Let these words sink into your ears: The Son of Man is about to be delivered into the hands of men." - [The Promise of Glorious Living](https://www.thistlebend.org/promise-glorious-living/) - by Angie Thomas As I have been meditating on and wanting to really soak in all the rich truths in Ephesians, I read Ephesians 1:3-12 in the Message and was really blessed and encouraged to hear the paraphrase of this passage. It seemed to help summarize and solidify even more Paul's message in this portion - [Jonathan, David, and Jesus](https://www.thistlebend.org/jonathan-david-jesus/) - by Laurie Aker We are bound to Jesus, and He is bound to us in covenant. The Lord gives us a picture of this beautiful covenant relationship in the covenant friendship between David and King Saul’s son Jonathan. Jonathan binds himself to David in covenant: “As soon as he had finished speaking to Saul, the - [Confessing Fear and Apathy](https://www.thistlebend.org/confessing-fear-apathy/) - by Angie Thomas I am so humbled and grateful to be on this journey with you this summer as we take theses amazing truths from Ephesians and ask the Lord to seed them deep in our hearts.There is great, really incredible news that our hearts need to hear. Luke 8 starts out saying this about - [Lord, If You Can...](https://www.thistlebend.org/lord-can/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 9:37-43 ESV 37 On the next day, when they had come down from the mountain, a great crowd met him. 38 And behold, a man from the crowd cried out, "Teacher, I beg you to look at my son, for he is my only child. 39 And behold, a - [The Imperatives of Suffering](https://www.thistlebend.org/imperatives-suffering/) - by Michael McKinley When Christians suffer, they need the indicatives, the facts of the gospel. They need to know the promises of God, the benefits of being in Christ, and the reality of the presence of the Holy Spirit. Those truths are our comfort when we are wounded, slandered, or tempted. But suffering believers also - [Rest in Your Father's Right Hand](https://www.thistlebend.org/rest-fathers-right-hand/) - by Laurie Aker Our culture puts so much emphasis on man’s accomplishments attained through man’s efforts. People measure themselves and compare themselves with one another. Women have been pressured excessively by all of the varied expectations placed upon them, and in an effort to establish their place, women are often more competitive than they are - [Who Do You Listen To?](https://www.thistlebend.org/listen/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 9:28-36 ESV 28 Now about eight days after these sayings he took with him Peter and John and James and went up on the mountain to pray. 29 And as he was praying, the appearance of his face was altered, and his clothing became dazzling white. 30 And behold, two men were - [Rejoicing in Trials](https://www.thistlebend.org/rejoicing-trials/) - by Laurie Aker Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! Let your forbearing spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanks- giving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses - [Save Your Life...And Lose](https://www.thistlebend.org/save-life-lose/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 9:23-27 ESV 23 And he said to all, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. 24 For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. 25 For what does it profit - [The Lord's Faithfulness](https://www.thistlebend.org/lords-faithfulness/) - by Laurie Aker David writes about the Lord’s faithfulness: “…I remember you upon my bed, and meditate on you in the watches of the night; for you have been my help, and in the shadow of your wings I will sing for joy” (Ps. 63:6-7). Can you say the same? Do you sing in the - [Don't Be Like Candace with Your Spiritual Gifts](https://www.thistlebend.org/dont-like-candace-spiritual-gifts/) - by Jonathan Leeman Hopefully you have not had to deal with a Candace Whitcomb in your church, but my guess is that you’ve known one or two. Her story is funny and pathetic and all too familiar. Candace Whitcomb is a character in Mary Wilkins Freeman’s 1889 short story “The Village Singer.” It begins with Miss - [Jesus Prayed](https://www.thistlebend.org/jesus-prayed/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 9:18-22 ESV 18 Now it happened that as he was praying alone, the disciples were with him. And he asked them,"Who do the crowds say that I am?" 19 And they answered, "John the Baptist. But others say, Elijah, and others, that one of the prophets of old has - [Two Principles that Must Never Be Separated](https://www.thistlebend.org/two-principles-must-never-separated/) - by Laurie Aker First,God is intimately acquainted with us in every way: “For you formed my inward parts” ([Psalm 139] v.13). And second, God is absolutely sovereign over everything that happens to us: “...in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none - [Do You Need Rest?](https://www.thistlebend.org/need-rest/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 9:10-17 ESV 10 On their return the apostles told him all that they had done. And he took them and withdrew apart to a town called Bethsaida. 11 When the crowds learned it, they followed him, and he welcomed them and spoke to them of the - [Our Greatest Satisfaction](https://www.thistlebend.org/greatest-satisfaction/) - by Laurie Aker Why is it that when we say we love the Lord and He is our God, we don’t put Him first? Why don’t we set aside time to be with Him in His Word? We allow our affections to wander, and our desires drift off to the temporal. Is sleep more important - [Getting Below the Layers of Sin](https://www.thistlebend.org/john-beheaded/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 9:7-9 ESV 7 Now Herod the tetrarch heard about all that was happening, and he was perplexed, because it was said by some that John had been raised from the dead, 8 by some that Elijah had appeared, and by others that one of the prophets of old - [Why Willpower Alone Can't Produce Obedience](https://www.thistlebend.org/willpower-alone-cant-produce-obedience/) - by Steve Fuller The Importance of Feelings In my early years as a Christian I relied on my own will-power to obey Christ, and did not see much need for Spirit-power. But that changed when I saw that God’s commands focus not just on actions, but also on feelings. Take Deuteronomy 28:47-48 as an example - [See the Gospel as God Sees It](https://www.thistlebend.org/see-gospel-god-sees/) - by Laurie Aker The eyes of our understanding are very weak. We can barely see our sin as God sees our sin, and we have such a difficult time seeing our sin through His eyes of perfect love and grace. Our perspective virtually blinds us; if only we could see the gospel as God sees - [Who Is This?](https://www.thistlebend.org/who-is-this/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 9:7-9 ESV 7 Now Herod the tetrarch heard about all that was happening, and he was perplexed, because it was said by some that John had been raised from the dead, 8 by some that Elijah had appeared, and by others that one of the prophets of old - [A New and Amazing Identity](https://www.thistlebend.org/new-amazing-identity/) - by Angie Thomas The question of our identity and purpose is perhaps one of the most perplexing, challenging, and ongoing struggles of our lives. If I were in a conversation with you and said, “Tell me a bit about who you are,” what would be your response? Would you say, “Oh, I’m a teacher, an - [Look to the Cross](https://www.thistlebend.org/look-cross/) - An Anonymous Post He is alive! We serve a risen Lord who could not be held by death or sin in the grave! This makes all the difference! I know the Lord spoke to me so gently and sweetly during worship Easter morning as I was struggling with guilt and shame over several decisions I - [Sand?](https://www.thistlebend.org/sand/) - by Susan Sampson Recently my husband saw what he thought were mice droppings in a drawer in our kitchen. I have an irrational fear of mice. We had mice several years ago, but we remodeled our kitchen and I thought that problem had been solved. I was immediately sick to my stomach and started crying - [My Really Weird Dream](https://www.thistlebend.org/really-weird-dream/) - by Angie Thomas I have a really weird, reoccurring dream. I am in college and half-way through my final semester I realize that I have not been attending a class that I needed to graduate. The entire dream revolves around me trying to do whatever I can to complete this class, but over and over - [A New Heart](https://www.thistlebend.org/new-heart/) - by Susan Sampson God made His covenant with Abram. Abram was asleep and the Lord alone cut the covenant. Abram did nothing. He had been an idolator like all the rest of us. God mercifully chose Abram as He chose each of us. It is God who has to work first. This is His covenant - [Will There Be Taxes in Heaven?](https://www.thistlebend.org/will-taxes-heaven/) - by Scott Kaczorowski If you are anything like me, you don’t enjoy tax season. There are probably few people who do. Even those of who end up getting refunds still have to go through the process of filling out the paper work (or hiring someone to do it for you), making sure everything is correct, - [Compare](https://www.thistlebend.org/compare/) - by Susan Sampson "Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance?" (Rom. 2:4). Do we tend to think lightly of the riches of His kindness to us in Christ? Thank you, Lord, for reminding me again who - [Your Lovingkindness](https://www.thistlebend.org/lovingkindness/) - by Laurie Aker The Lord can seem so close at times and yet so far. We want to talk with Him, yet He seems out of reach. We cry out, yet we are not sure if He has heard. Our heart reverberates with a longing that we don’t know how to satisfy; then a fog - [Infants and Salvation](https://www.thistlebend.org/infants-salvation/) - by Laurie Aker and Scott Kaczorowski Our time is limited when we are together each week and often we don't have time to delve into each topic to the depth that I would like. We recently touched on the sensitive topic of infants and salvation. Rather than gloss over it, my heart's desire is for - [Good Works?](https://www.thistlebend.org/good-works/) - by Angie Thomas For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. (Eph. 2:10) Good works? What are those exactly? The truth is I could come up with a list of things that would seem “good” to me. They would probably include things - [What Is the Gospel?](https://www.thistlebend.org/gospel/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 9:6 ESV 6 And they departed and went through the villages, preaching the gospel and healing everywhere. ______________________________ People may think they are preaching the gospel when they invite someone to church, or when they pray with them,or do a kind thing for them. All - [Enter In](https://www.thistlebend.org/enter/) - by Laurie Aker We are not merely to worship the Lord for His power and glory as if we look on these things from a distance and admire their beauty in a detached way, as we might admire a fine painting. No. We are to enter into worship with all of our being. But we - [You Were Once Dead](https://www.thistlebend.org/dead/) - by Susan Sampson "Remember that you were at that time separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ"(Eph. - [Take Nothing for your Journey](https://www.thistlebend.org/take-nothing-journey/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 9:1-5 ESV 1 And he called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, 2 and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal. 3 And he said to them, "Take nothing for your journey, - [Defining the Relationship](https://www.thistlebend.org/defining-relationship/) - by Angie Thomas Jesus lovingly revealed to me today during a recent Who Am I in Christ lecture that I need to have a DTR with him.1 Yep, we need to have a “Defining the Relationship” talk. It is sort of ironic because if you were to ask me, I would say that I have - [Do You Believe?](https://www.thistlebend.org/believe/) - by Susan Sampson Does your Facebook page say you are single? I don't have a Facebook page and I am married, but if I examine my life and my actions, I would have to say it sometimes looks like I am single, independent from God, and autonomous. I had to look that word up again - [Faith Over Feelings](https://www.thistlebend.org/faith-feelings/) - by Angie Thomas In a recent Who Am I in Christ lecture, Laurie asked us how we direct our minds, thoughts, and hearts heavenward. How do we think of our present circumstances, in light of eternity? One of my favorite verses is 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, "Therefore we do not lose heart.Though outwardly we are wasting - [That You May Know](https://www.thistlebend.org/may-know/) - by Susan Sampson There are seasons in our lives when the waves are calm. But many times, the waves are rough and their will always be a "great windstorm" which causes the waves to "break into the boat" (Mark 4:37). Praise God for there is purpose in the storms. The Lord always uses the storms - [Evangelizing the Nations at Home](https://www.thistlebend.org/evangelizing-nations-home/) - by Andy Johnson Would you be surprised if told you that Americas are increasingly inhospitable to international visitors, and that Christians can thank God for that? One university reports that 80 percent of their international students never see the inside of a local U. S. home. Longer-term immigrants seem to fare little better. So why - [His Power and Glory](https://www.thistlebend.org/power-glory/) - by Laurie Aker In Psalm 63, a love song to his beloved God, David proclaims that God is his God, that he seeks after Him with his heart, soul, mind, and strength, and with all that he has within him. As the circumstances escalate, in the vortex of emotion, under the intense pressure, he doesn’t - [My Delight Is in Her](https://www.thistlebend.org/delight/) - by Susan Sampson The other morning I read the Daily Light devotion and Isaiah 62:4-5 was quoted: "You shall no longer be termed Forsaken...but you shall be called Hephzibah [My Delight is in Her]...for the Lord delights in you. ...as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride, so shall your God rejoice over you" (NKJV). So - [Touch the Fringe of His Robe](https://www.thistlebend.org/touch-fringe-robe/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 8:40-56 ESV 40 Now when Jesus returned, the crowd welcomed him, for they were all waiting for him. 41 And there came a man named Jairus, who was a ruler of the synagogue. And falling at Jesus' feet, he implored him to come to his house, - [Blessed?](https://www.thistlebend.org/blessed/) - by Angie Thomas I have to admit that often I do not feel blessed. It is really sort of ridiculous because just temporally speaking I have so much! A loving husband, three precious kiddos, a warm and comfortable place to live, plenty of food and clothing, wonderful friends and family, the list could go on - [Blessed Beyond Belief by God's Amazing Grace](https://www.thistlebend.org/blessed-beyond-belief-gods-amazing-grace/) - by Susan Sampson So how did we come to be in Christ? It has been a difficult but sweet journey these past few years as I have wrestled with this question, seeking the Lord's wisdom and truth in His Word. Laurie talked about the truth of God choosing us bringing consternation and internal conflict. For - [Where Did the Pigs Go?](https://www.thistlebend.org/pigs-go/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 8:26-39 ESV 26 Then they sailed to the country of the Gerasenes, which is opposite Galilee. 27 When Jesus had stepped out on land, there met him a man from the city who had demons. For a long time he had worn no clothes, and - [The Tabernacle](https://www.thistlebend.org/tabernacle/) - by Scott Kaczorowski Kevin Aker once said in a lecture about the tabernacle: "The tent was the place of meeting. Christ is our place of meeting."1 That statement perfectly summarizes and captures the essence of what the tabernacle was--an expression of God's desire to meet with His people (along with His provisions and instructions to - [Putting to Death the Flesh](https://www.thistlebend.org/putting-death-flesh/) - by Laurie Aker and Scott Kaczorowski It is difficult to give a point-by-point description of how to mortify or put to death the flesh, but here are some helpful guidelines: • Entrust yourself to Christ. Ultimately, He is working in you, and you must trust Him, or you will be fighting the battle in your - [My Pathetic Idols](https://www.thistlebend.org/pathetic-idols/) - by Angie Thomas As Laurie taught last week in a Who Am I in Christ lecture about our often subtle idolatry, the Lord lovingly took me back to a challenging day earlier in the week when my idolatry was clearly exposed. That Tuesday morning started out rough. I woke up late, Ned was extra fussy, - [No Longer Who We Once Were](https://www.thistlebend.org/longer/) - by Susan Sampson “WE ARE NO LONGER WHO WE ONCE WERE!” All caps is how I wrote this on my lecture notes when Laurie said this because it is so huge! To be able to begin to comprehend the truth of our identity in Christ! We were sinners, children of wrath and now we are - [Lord--Even in a Storm](https://www.thistlebend.org/lord-even-storm/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 8:22-25 ESV 22 One day he got into a boat with his disciples, and he said to them, "Let us go across to the other side of the lake." So they set out, 23 and as they sailed he fell asleep. And a windstorm came - [Just a Task?](https://www.thistlebend.org/just-task/) - by Angie Thomas I am so thankful for this journey the Lord has allowed us to walk this semester as we study Ephesians. As I was contemplating that I considered how we often talk of a "Bible/discipleship study" or refer to completing our "homework". There is a risk in using these words to describe what - [Hearing and Doing?](https://www.thistlebend.org/hearing/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 8:19-21 ESV 19 Then his mother and his brothers came to him, but they could not reach him because of the crowd. 20 And he was told, "Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, desiring to see you." 21 But he answered them, "My mother and - [In Christ](https://www.thistlebend.org/christ/) - by Susan Sampson Who am I in Christ? Who am I in Christ? The sentences are the same but the emphasis makes all the difference in the world! So where is my emphasis? Self or Christ? What is my purpose for living? Who is my focus? What am I thinking about? The world, the enemy, - [Learning How to Pray from Jesus](https://www.thistlebend.org/learning-pray-jesus/) - by Steve Fuller How Should I Pray? Let’s say you are without work. And imagine you just returned from an interview for a job you really want, and you decide to pray about the job. But as you think about praying, you start to wonder – Why pray, when it’s the interviewer who will decide - [Seven Ways to Build a Culture of Spiritual Conversation](https://www.thistlebend.org/seven-ways-build-culture-spiritual-conversation/) - by Bobby Jamieson There are some churches—faithful, Bible-preaching churches—where the after-church conversations are so secular that you could swap them out for the lunch crowd at a local restaurant. And if after-church conversations are this secular, then others are likely to fare little better in terms of spiritual substance. Why is this? Certainly different cultures - [So Go](https://www.thistlebend.org/go/) - by Laurie Aker Ask the Lord to search your heart and give you eyes to see your sin through His heart of love and truth. This may require much fasting and prayer, along with patient, faithful waiting. As the Lord reveals your sin, be quick to agree with Him and confess it. Trusting in Christ - [Report Card](https://www.thistlebend.org/report-card/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 8:16-18 ESV 16 No one after lighting a lamp covers it with a jar or puts it under a bed, but puts it on a stand, so that those who enter may see the light. 17 For nothing is hidden that will not be - [The Omnipotence of His Silence](https://www.thistlebend.org/omnipotence-silence/) - by Michael McKinley Christ in his passion was mocked on several occasions and each time the mockery occupied a unique place in his experience. First he was mocked by Israel, next he was mocked by the pagan world, then by a descendant of Edom, a false brother, and finally by all these together. He was - [What to Do if You Get Nothing Out of Reading the Bible](https://www.thistlebend.org/get-nothing-reading-bible/) - by Steve Fuller Getting Nothing Let’s say you are reading God’s Word, but getting nothing out of it. Maybe it’s not meaning anything to you, or you are just not feeling it. What can you do? I’ve been there, and I’m pretty sure every believer has. So you are not alone. But what’s even more - [Eyes to See?](https://www.thistlebend.org/looking-sin/) - by Laurie Aker We can become so accustomed to our sin patterns and unaware of a hardening heart that instead of turning to thirst more after God, we wander away from God and fill ourselves with empty or even harmful things. Tired, angry, frightened, or hurting we might shut down, put up walls, and hide. - [How Is Your Heart?](https://www.thistlebend.org/heart/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 8:4-15 ESV 4 And when a great crowd was gathering and people from town after town came to him, he said in a parable, 5 "A sower went out to sow his seed. And as he sowed, some fell along the path and was - [New Beginnings](https://www.thistlebend.org/new-beginnings/) - by Susan Sampson After having been somewhat home bound the last couple of weeks, it was such a blessing to begin a new study and see all of you! As I was praying the Lord blessed me with such a sweet picture of the body of Christ. We are a family, sisters in Christ. All - [Reaching the "Converted"](https://www.thistlebend.org/reaching-converted/) - by Bob Johnson Some of our most obvious evangelistic opportunities are with the people who are members of our churches. You already have a relationship with them. You already have the advantage of consistently telling them the gospel. You also have some God-ordained opportunities to personally point them to Christ. Paul warned the elders of - [Lord, I Will Seek You Earnestly!](https://www.thistlebend.org/lord-will-seek-earnestly/) - by Laurie Aker God’s ways are not our ways; His thoughts are higher than our thoughts. Spending time immersing ourselves in His Word and meditating upon it truly transforms our hearts, our minds, and our lives. David clearly under- stood this. God affirms this in Psalm 1:1-3: “Blessed is the man [whose] . . . - [Proclaim the Gospel with Your Life](https://www.thistlebend.org/proclaim-gospel-life/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 8:1-3 ESV 1 Soon afterward he went on through cities and villages, proclaiming and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with him, 2 and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, - [Proclaim the Gospel to Your Soul](https://www.thistlebend.org/proclaim-gosple-soul/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 8:1-3 ESV 1 Soon afterward he went on through cities and villages, proclaiming and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with him, 2 and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, - [Milk and Chocolate](https://www.thistlebend.org/milk-chocolate/) - by Scott Kaczorowski One of my favorite parts of eating chocolate is the milk. Now don't get me wrong-- I am not a great milk fan. You won't find me rushing into the refrigerator on a hot day (or any other day) to chug a chug of milk. In fact, as far as beverage preferences - [The Problem With Saying, "It Could Have Been Worse"](https://www.thistlebend.org/problem-saying-worse/) - by Steve Fuller Where To Find Comfort Two weeks ago I had a small stroke, which affected some of my peripheral vision. This trial is small compared to what many people experience. But it’s big to me, because it now takes a bit more effort to read and write and do other everyday tasks. As - [Pursuing God Alone](https://www.thistlebend.org/pursuit-god-alone/) - by Laurie Aker The more you draw near and get to know God, the more He may surprise you. He is so much more loving than we expect. He has greater plans for you than you have for yourself, but His ways are not our ways. He always has His eternal purposes in mind while - [Five Reasons We Don't Evangelize](https://www.thistlebend.org/five-reasons-dont-evangelize/) - by Michael McKinley The New Testament compels God’s people to take the gospel out into the world. Jesus gave his disciples a standing order to go and make disciples (Matt. 28:19). He told them that they would become fishers of men (Matt. 4:17). Peter advised the churches of Asia Minor to be ready with an - [An Alabaster Jar Outpoured](https://www.thistlebend.org/alabaster-jar-outpoured/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 7:36-50 ESV 36 One of the Pharisees asked him to eat with him, and he went into the Pharisee's house and took his place at the table. 37 And behold, a woman of the city, who was a sinner, when she learned that he was - [Into the Wilderness](https://www.thistlebend.org/wilderness/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 7:24-35 ESV 24 When John's messengers had gone, Jesus began to speak to the crowds concerning John: "What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? 25 What then did you go out to see? A man dressed - [God Afflicts, But Not Willingly](https://www.thistlebend.org/god-afflicts-willingly/) - by Steve Fuller My Affliction I recently had a minor stroke, which affected some of my peripheral vision. I was encouraged by the story of Job, who blessed the name of the Lord, even though God had taken Job’s donkeys, sheep, camels, and children (Job 1:21-22). How — after losing all this — could Job - [He Restores My Soul](https://www.thistlebend.org/restores-soul/) - by Laurie Aker He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. (Ps. 23:3) The Lord our shepherd watches closely over His sheep and restores them to himself when they wan- der. Not one of God’s creatures will lose its way sooner than a sheep, which are so inclined - [Consistent Complementarianism](https://www.thistlebend.org/consistent-complementarianism/) - by Michael McKinley I meet more and more young men who are excited about the concept of male leadership in the home. As far as it goes, I think that’s a good thing. But I also see a lot of men who assert their headship in their home, but who do not take a consistent - [Are You Offended by Jesus?](https://www.thistlebend.org/offended-jesus/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 7:18-23 ESV 18 The disciples of John reported all these things to him. And John, 19 calling two of his disciples to him, sent them to the Lord, saying, "Are you the one who is to come, or shall we look for another?" 20 And when - [God's Love Is Perfect](https://www.thistlebend.org/gods-love-is-perfect/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 7:11-17 ESV 11 Soon afterward he went to a town called Nain, and his disciples and a great crowd went with him. 12 As he drew near to the gate of the town, behold, a man who had died was being carried out, the only - [What to Do When Faith Dies](https://www.thistlebend.org/what-to-do-when-faith-dies/) - by Steve Fuller Too often we lack works. Maybe we are not praying, not forgiving someone, not crucifying selfishness to care for others, or not sharing the gospel. We know this is a serious problem, because James said that “faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead” (James 2:17). What’s more serious - [Evangelism without an Altar Call](https://www.thistlebend.org/evangelism-without-an-altar-call/) - by Aaron Menikoff Five and a half years ago I preached my first sermon as the pastor of Mount Vernon Baptist Church. The minister of music stopped me before the service with a question. He wanted to know how I’d be making the altar call. I was confused. Prior to this Sunday morning I’d been - [One Remedy for All Our Hearts](https://www.thistlebend.org/one-remedy-for-all-our-hearts/) - by Laurie Aker God has called His people by name; He has chosen us from before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in His sight. He has chosen us to be His adopted firstborn sons and daughters, and He has given us an inheritance according to His endless heavenly riches. He - [The Humble Centurion](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-humble-centurion/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 7:1-10 ESV 1After he had finished all his sayings in the hearing of the people, he entered Capernaum. 2 Now a centurion had a servant who was sick and at the point of death, who was highly valued by him. 3 When the centurion - [Will You Believe God?](https://www.thistlebend.org/will-you-believe-god/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 1:46-55 ESV 46 And Mary said, "My soul magnifies the Lord, 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, 48 for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed; 49 for he who is mighty - [Poison Turned to Medicine](https://www.thistlebend.org/poison-turned-to-medicine/) - by Michael McKinley In his commentary on II Corinthians, John Calvin reflects on Paul's statement that a messenger of Satan (his "thorn in the flesh") served as God's means of keeping him from deadly pride. Pauls writes: So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a thorn was given - [Preaching to Women Who Work in the Home](https://www.thistlebend.org/preaching-to-women-who-work-in-the-home/) - by Bari Nichols Pastors should treat women in the congregation like family. That seems to be the lesson of 1 Timothy 5:2: “Treat…older women as mothers, and younger women as sisters.” But does God say how they should preach to women? In fact, he does. Three passages of Scripture in particular stand out for their - [Under His Almighty Wings](https://www.thistlebend.org/under-his-almighty-wings/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Ruth 3:1-9 ESV 1 Then Naomi her mother-in-law said to her, "My daughter, should I not seek rest for you, that it may be well with you? 2 Is not Boaz our relative, with whose young women you were? See, he is winnowing barley - [Listen to Jesus](https://www.thistlebend.org/listen-to-jesus/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 6:46-49 ESV 46 "Why do you call me 'Lord, Lord,' and not do what I tell you? 47 Everyone who comes to me and hears my words and does them, I will show you what he is like: 48 he is like a - [Is There a Point to the Last Minutes of Suffering Before Death?](https://www.thistlebend.org/is-there-a-point-to-the-last-minutes-of-suffering-before-death/) - by John Piper So someone might ask — I ask — does the suffering itself that ends in death make a difference? Is there a point to it? The answer is yes. One of the most precious promises for final suffering is 2 Corinthians 4:17: This light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal - [Satan's Real Interest in Your Sin](https://www.thistlebend.org/satans-real-interest-in-your-sin/) - by Michael McKinley Hath Satan any more friendly aim and intention towards thee, who is a sharer in every temptation? To beguile thee as a serpent, to devour thee as a lion, is the friendship he owes thee. I shall only add, that the sin he tempts thee to against the law, it is not - [The Gospel for a Gay Friend](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-gospel-for-a-gay-friend/) - by Garrett Kell Josh had always known he was different. From his earliest memories, he looked at some boys as more than just peers. His parents knew he was “special” but they loved him for it. He learned to wear a mask and play the part of a “normal” kid until he graduated high school. - [Bad Fruit?](https://www.thistlebend.org/bad-fruit/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 6:43-45 ESV 43 For no good tree bears bad fruit, nor again does a bad tree bear good fruit, 44 for each tree is known by its own fruit. For figs are not gathered from thornbushes, nor are grapes picked from a bramble bush. - [What Will You Say to Jesus?](https://www.thistlebend.org/what-will-you-say-to-jesus/) - by Jonathan Parnell One day we will stand before Jesus. If we could see through the clutter of our lives now, if we could envision that day when everything is said and done, it’s clear that the enduring mission in and under and beyond every detail of our lives should be about pleasing him. What - [The Gospel is Everything](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-gospel-is-everything/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 6:41-42 ESV 41 Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? 42 How can you say to your brother, 'Brother, let me take out the speck that is in your - [Who Do You Follow?](https://www.thistlebend.org/who-do-you-follow/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 6:39-40 ESV 39 He also told them a parable: "Can a blind man lead a blind man? Will they not both fall into a pit? 40 A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone when he is fully trained will be like his - [Give, Forgive, and Reap](https://www.thistlebend.org/give-forgive-and-reap/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 6:37-38 ESV 37 Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven; 38 give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will - [From My Journal](https://www.thistlebend.org/from-my-journal/) - by Dottie Ryan I initially took Falling in Love Again with your Lord in the summer of 2007. As I rummaged through my old study, I ran across my final journal entry from that period of time. So I wondered if it would be okay to share with you where I was then...how the study - [The Unimaginable Greatness of God](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-unimaginable-greatness-of-god/) - by Scott Kaczorowski In Lesson 8 of Falling in Love Again with Your Lord for Men we looked at God's right hand... its power (Day 2), authority (Day 3), blessing (Day 4), and how it binds in covenant (Day 5). Kevin summarized this nicely in the lecture when he said: "His hand holds all the - [Stand Firm in Your Time with the Lord](https://www.thistlebend.org/2812/) - by Angie Thomas What an amazing semester this has been! I have seen God working so powerfully in so many of your lives as you have sought Him and fought to keep your relationship with Him a priority. He is so glorified and honored in your perseverance and struggle. "For we do not wrestle against - [Increments](https://www.thistlebend.org/increments/) - by Dottie Ryan I was raised in a dysfunctional home. And as a result, much of my thought processes -- my coping mechanisms -- the ways I perceived and walked through everyday life were skewed. The way I saw and understood God was just as distorted. I would like to say that the Lord has - [Truth? Feelings? Feelings? Truth?](https://www.thistlebend.org/truth-feelings-feelings-truth/) - by Susan Sampson Question - Has the Lord forsaken me? The Truth - "for he has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you" (Heb. 13:5b). Question - Does the Lord love me? I am prone to doubt this when things go so wrong in my own eyes and the circumstances feel so painful. - [Sheltered by God](https://www.thistlebend.org/sheltered-by-god/) - by Susan Sampson "The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?...For he will hide me in his shelter in the day of trouble, he will conceal me under the cover of his tent, he will lift me - [Be Merciful](https://www.thistlebend.org/be-merciful/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 6:27-36 ESV 27 But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28 bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. 29 To one who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also, and - [Satisfied--How, When, Why?](https://www.thistlebend.org/satisfied-how-when-why/) - by Scott Kaczorowski In a recent Falling in Love Again with your Lord for Men lecture, Kevin said, "God knows that we will crave or desire something. He made us that way. The question we ask is what is it? What is it we long for?" For David the answer was clear: "My soul will - [What Would It Look Like to Feast on Jesus?](https://www.thistlebend.org/what-would-it-look-like-to-feast-on-jesus/) - by Angie Thomas As Laurie was having us consider our favorite meal the other night I started considering, "What would it look like to feast on Jesus?" The thing I thought was so interesting as a few people shared about the people and circumstances surrounding their favorite meal is that every person's "favorite" was so - [Grasp His Love](https://www.thistlebend.org/grasp-his-love/) - by Angie Thomas I am wondering if you struggle like me to believe and grasp God's love? It often seems intangible and surreal. Does the God of the universe really love us that tenderly, passionately, and personally? God is relentless in His pursuit of His children. When I reflect back on God's amazing love for - [Desiring More of Him](https://www.thistlebend.org/desiring-more-of-him/) - by Susan Sampson I hated vegetables growing up. Don't most kids? But now I actually like them and even crave some of them. I wouldn't be caught dead eating green peppers as a kid, but now I love green peppers and onions on my pizza! So what changed? My pediatrician tells me to keep offering - [Do We Know How Poor We Are?](https://www.thistlebend.org/do-we-know-how-poor-we-are/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 6:20-26 ESV 20 And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said: "Blessed are you who are poor now, for yours is the kingdom of God. 21 Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you shall be satisfied. Blessed are you - [Make Every Effort](https://www.thistlebend.org/make-every-effort/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 6:17-19 ESV 17 And he came down with them and stood on a level place, with a great crowd of his disciples and a great multitude of people from all Judea and Jerusalem and the seacoast of Tyre and Sidon, 18 who came to hear him - [Nothing Matters More](https://www.thistlebend.org/nothing-matters-more/) - by Susan Sampson "Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so." I sing it, but do I believe it? Laurie said in a recent Falling in Love Again with Your Lord lecture: "Our understanding of God's love for us and our ability to receive that love according to His Word is - [The Battlefield](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-battlefield/) - by Angie Thomas May we say no to our flesh and walk forward in obedience. I know this can be so difficult! I loved this quote from A.W. Tozer that I heard at church this morning, "The world is not a playground but a battlefield. We are not here to frolic but to fight." There - [This Side of Eternity](https://www.thistlebend.org/this-side-of-eternity/) - by Dottie Ryan Life is difficult this side of eternity. And sometimes just trying to hold on to enough faith to believe that He really does have you – that He really is sovereign in your life – that He really is weaving it all together for your good – that He’s not forgotten you - [Behold](https://www.thistlebend.org/behold/) - by Susan Sampson Behold, believe, bow, and boldly go forth as a vessel of His glory!1 I looked up the definition of "behold." It is a verb and it means "regard or look at." Then I looked up the synonyms. Here are just some: Contemplate Discern Eyeball Feast one's eyes Lay eyes on Observe Perceive - [The Line in the Sand. The Love of God.](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-line-in-the-sand-the-love-of-god/) - by Scott Kaczorowski What follows is a strong statement. But hopefully not a controversial one. The single most important thing that any Christian needs to understand is how deeply God loves them in Christ. Paul prays that the Ephesians will have an understanding of God's deep love: For this reason I bow my knees before - [Loving Our Wives (So They Know It)](https://www.thistlebend.org/loving-our-wives-so-they-know-it/) - by Scott Kaczorowski In a recent Falling in Love Again with Your Lord lecture, Laurie Aker spoke about what it means/looks like to truly seek after God. One area where she applied this to the ladies was submission to their husbands--even if they don't agree or understand or think it makes any sense. Men, we - [Lord, Help Me Pray More Like You](https://www.thistlebend.org/lord-help-me-pray-more-like-you/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 6:12-16 ESV 12 In these days he went out to the mountain to pray, and all night he continued in prayer to God. 13 And when day came, he called his disciples and chose from them twelve, whom he named apostles: 14 Simon, whom - [Draw Near and Be Healed](https://www.thistlebend.org/draw-near-and-be-healed/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 6:17-19 ESV 17 And he came down with them and stood on a level place, with a great crowd of his disciples and a great multitude of people from all Judea and Jerusalem and the seacoast of Tyre and Sidon, 18 who came to hear him - [God as Searching Shepherd](https://www.thistlebend.org/god-as-searching-shepherd/) - by Dottie Ryan Through this study we are learning that God loves us. And this is so necessary for us to know and even experience if we are to follow Him -- to fall in love again with Him. When God called us to Himself, it was just like when He chose the Israelites to - [Fix It?](https://www.thistlebend.org/fix-it/) - by Angie Thomas I struggled one morning to make my morning appointment with God. I stumbled out of bed to my rocking chair and sat half-awake staring at my Bible thinking, “I don’t really want to read this.” My heart felt hard and my faith was lacking. As a result, I was feeling weary. The - [Why Don't You Pray?](https://www.thistlebend.org/why-dont-you-pray/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 6:12-16 ESV 12 In these days he went out to the mountain to pray, and all night he continued in prayer to God. 13 And when day came, he called his disciples and chose from them twelve, whom he named apostles: 14 Simon, whom - [Why Don't People Pray?](https://www.thistlebend.org/why-dont-people-pray/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 6:12-16 ESV 12 In these days he went out to the mountain to pray, and all night he continued in prayer to God. 13 And when day came, he called his disciples and chose from them twelve, whom he named apostles: 14 Simon, whom - [Lock Arms](https://www.thistlebend.org/lock-arms/) - by Dottie Ryan "O God, you are my God; earnestly I see you" (Psalm 63:1). Again I was confronted with my own obstacles (sometimes self-inflicted) and weaknesses: the lies I have believed, the sin I continue to walk in, ignore, or discount, my idols I have not either identified or decided to lay down, my - [Reflections on Jonathan Edwards' Personal Narrative and Falling in Love Again with Your Lord for Men](https://www.thistlebend.org/2301/) - by Scott Kaczorowski I thought it would be helpful to provide for you the text of the resolution of Jonathan Edwards that Kevin Aker shared at the Falling in Love Again with Your Lord for Men study. At 19 years old, Edwards wrote: "On January 12, 1723. I made a solemn dedication of myself to - [Reflections on The Sinfulness of Sin and Falling in Love Again with Your Lord](https://www.thistlebend.org/reflections-on-the-sinfulness-of-sin/) - by Susan Sampson Ralph Venning in 1669 wrote The Sinfulness of Sin. I bought this book in the desire to see my sin more clearly so I can know the love of my Lord more greatly. Listen to how our sin is described: "In short, sin is the dare of God's justice, the rape of - [The Cross and the Throne](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-cross-and-the-throne/) - by Angie Thomas I am sitting here writing this at almost 11 am still in my pajamas. It's been one of those mornings. It started with waking up at 5:45 out of a dream/nightmare where I was frantically searching for my new baby. In my dream he was several months old and we were with - [Prayer Answered by Crosses](https://www.thistlebend.org/prayer-answered-by-crosses/) - Introduction by Dottie Ryan Poem by John Newton In a recent Falling in Love Again with Your Lord session, Laurie read a poem to us during her lecture. She thought it might be a blessing for you to have this poem at your fingertips. May your Lord speak to your heart through the words that - [Feelings Are a Poor Shepherd](https://www.thistlebend.org/feelings-are-a-poor-shepherd/) - by Susan Sampson My feelings are so often my shepherd and I wonder why I'm in want. On page 6 of our homework this past week Laurie wrote, "If I was to renounce everything I would have to even renounce the false impressions of my feelings. Feelings lie, whereas the Bible tells the truth. I - [The Shepherd](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-shepherd/) - by Dottie Ryan I waited patiently for the Lord; he inclined to me and heard my cry. He drew me up from the pit of destruction, out of the miry bog, and set my feet upon a rock, making my steps secure. (Psalm 40:1-2) As I sit out on the deck this somewhat warm, humid, - [Delight Yourself in the Lord](https://www.thistlebend.org/delight-yourself-in-the-lord/) - by Scott Kaczorowski It might sound spiritually cliche, but Psalm 37:3-4 has been a passage that the Lord has brought up in my life over and over again: "Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of - [Observe Who You Serve](https://www.thistlebend.org/observe-who-you-serve/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 5:17-26 ESV 17 One day Jesus was teaching, and Pharisees and teachers of the law were sitting there. They had come from every village of Galilee and from Judea and Jerusalem. And the power of the Lord was with Jesus to heal the sick. - [Do You Ever Feel Paralyzed?](https://www.thistlebend.org/do-you-ever-feel-paralyzed/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 5:17-26 ESV 17 One day Jesus was teaching, and Pharisees and teachers of the law were sitting there. They had come from every village of Galilee and from Judea and Jerusalem. And the power of the Lord was with Jesus to heal the sick. - [Lower Your Mat Before Him](https://www.thistlebend.org/lower-your-mat-before-him/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 5:17-26 ESV 17 One day Jesus was teaching, and Pharisees and teachers of the law were sitting there. They had come from every village of Galilee and from Judea and Jerusalem. And the power of the Lord was with Jesus to heal the sick. - [Shepherded by Jesus](https://www.thistlebend.org/shepherded-by-jesus/) - by Susan Sampson Are you tired of trying? I am. I can hear him say, "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your - [The Terrible, So Good, Blessed Day](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-terrible-so-good-blessed-day/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 5:12-16 ESV 12 While he was in one of the cities, there came a man full of leprosy. And when he saw Jesus, he fell on his face and begged him, "Lord, if you will, you can make me clean." 13 And Jesus - [The Gentleness of Jesus as Lord](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-gentleness-of-jesus-as-lord/) - by Scott Kaczorowski I don't know about you, but the Lord is really putting His finger on some difficult places in my life right now. The process is painful. Discipleship is hard. But one of the things that struck me this week as I was doing the first week of the Falling in Love Again - [His Voice](https://www.thistlebend.org/his-voice/) - by Angie Thomas I was so, so touched and encouraged as I started to read the passages in our homework about being a sheep. The passage in John 10 especially stood out to me and encouraged my heart. What sweet truths to know that Jesus is our Good Shepherd and that the Bible promises us - [Eyes](https://www.thistlebend.org/eyes/) - by Susan Sampson The title of this study is Falling In Love Again with Your Lord. I desperately want to love the Lord with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. I know I don't. I know I can't -- apart from the grace of God. Not one of us can unless the Lord moves. - [He Is Calling You by Name...](https://www.thistlebend.org/he-is-calling-you-by-name/) - by Dottie Ryan Believer, the Lord has called you by name. Isaiah 43:1 NIV says: " I have summoned you by name; you are mine." Can you take that in? To think that each believer has been called by the Lord and that He has your name carved in the palm of His hand! He knows - [Guard the Gates](https://www.thistlebend.org/guard-the-gates/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 4:42-44 ESV 42 And when it was day, he departed and went into a desolate place. And the people sought him and came to him, and would have kept him from leaving them, 43 but he said to them, "I must preach the good - [What Is My Purpose?](https://www.thistlebend.org/what-is-my-purpose/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 4:42-44 ESV 42 And when it was day, he departed and went into a desolate place. And the people sought him and came to him, and would have kept him from leaving them, 43 but he said to them, "I must preach the good - [People](https://www.thistlebend.org/people/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 4:42-44 ESV 42 And when it was day, he departed and went into a desolate place. And the people sought him and came to him, and would have kept him from leaving them, 43 but he said to them, "I must preach the good - [A Special Place](https://www.thistlebend.org/a-special-place/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 4:42-44 ESV 42 And when it was day, he departed and went into a desolate place. And the people sought him and came to him, and would have kept him from leaving them, 43 but he said to them, "I must preach the good - [Running to Jesus](https://www.thistlebend.org/running-to-jesus/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 4:38-41 ESV 38 And he arose and left the synagogue and entered Simon's house. Now Simon's mother-in-law was ill with a high fever, and they appealed to him on her behalf. 39 And he stood over her and rebuked the fever, and it - [Only God Can Change a Heart](https://www.thistlebend.org/only-god-can-change-a-heart/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 4:31-37 ESV 31 And he went down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee. And he was teaching them on the Sabbath, 32 and they were astonished at his teaching, for his word possessed authority. 33 And in the synagogue there was a man - [Hypocricy?](https://www.thistlebend.org/hypocricy/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 4:20-30 ESV 20 And he rolled up the scroll and gave it back to the attendant and sat down. And the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on him. 21 And he began to say to them, "Today this Scripture - [Love and Obedience](https://www.thistlebend.org/love-and-obedience/) - by Angie Thomas I hope you all are experiencing God's love in deep and real ways. I have been mulling over what Laurie said during our time together, that love and obedience are inseparable. This really struck me. I will be honest, I don't really like the word "obey." I never liked it as a - [Real Redemption](https://www.thistlebend.org/real-redemption/) - by Angie Thomas As I was looking over the study I was overwhelmed with the Lord's unconditional love for us. We are so blessed girls, blessed beyond what we could ask or imagine. Psalm 32:1 says, "Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered." We hear these words and they just - [The Ultimate Yes and Amen](https://www.thistlebend.org/2128/) - by Angie Thomas As we talked more about prayer, I was so convicted. I want to grow in this area. I am still so limited by my unbelief. I believe we really don't understand prayer. I know I don't. Let's just say you played the Lottery and you prayed, really prayed hard before the drawing - [A Plan](https://www.thistlebend.org/a-plan/) - by Angie Thomas So, I know a few of you are big U of L Cards fans and were able to watch their unbelievable accomplishments as they clasped the National Title. There was a lot of celebrating at this house! I found it really interesting that all the way through the NCAA tournament, even after - [The Lie of Performance](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-lie-of-performance/) - by Susan Sampson God loves us not because of our performance but because of our position in Christ. I have spent a lifetime trying to earn love by being good enough. It is a lie to think we could ever be good enough. Paul says in Romans 7:18, "I know that nothing good lives in - [This Tree](https://www.thistlebend.org/this-tree/) - by Susan Sampson We want to be that tree planted by streams of water. It is the living water that causes fruit to grow and leaves to not wither in seasons of drought. This living water is God's Word. How can we be this tree? By delighting ourselves in the Lord and His Word. Ladies, - [Why Are We... ?](https://www.thistlebend.org/why-are-we/) - by Susan Sampson So why are we doing this study? Why are we going through the process of asking God to search our hearts? Because of the Gospel. It is the Gospel that enables us to do this. We can't see apart from the Gospel. This study is not about getting it right. We are - [How Can We... ?](https://www.thistlebend.org/how-can-we/) - by Susan Sampson How can we be committed and consistent in prayer? How can we be humbly dependent upon prayer? How can we pray with boldness and confidence? How can we labor in prayer for ourselves and others? ONLY IN CHRIST AND THROUGH CHRIST. Christ is our only Hope and our only Help. And yet - [Delighting in God's Word](https://www.thistlebend.org/delighting-in-gods-word/) - by Angie Thomas Our lecture notes said, "You are blessed! Be blessed! Be a blessing! Delight yourself in the Law of the Lord and meditate upon it day and night! Walk, stand and sit in the way of the Lord!" Such powerful truths from Psalm 1! The Lord has really convicted my heart that I - [Oneness with the Lord](https://www.thistlebend.org/oneness-with-the-lord/) - by Susan Sampson I was so thankful when Laurie reminded us of the goal of our study. What are we doing? The goal is for our hearts to be one with God. We want our hearts to be changed from sinful to Spirit-filled! How is this possible? Is it even possible? Yes! "But Jesus looked - [The Roots](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-roots/) - by Susan Sampson This week's lecture was an answer to prayer in helping me see my sin as God sees it. When Laurie drew the tree on the white board she was labeling it with my sinful fruit in trying to work harder to be more perfect or okay and in feeling cranky because I - [Repentance](https://www.thistlebend.org/repentance/) - by Susan Sampson As I read the devotion from Lesson 7, I was struck by the simple definition of the Gospel, "Not I, but Christ." This is why we need to repent. As Laurie said in the lecture, "that's repentance -- NO LONGER YOU." True repentance does not lead to an ongoing indulgence of self. - [The Reason for Weakness](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-reason-for-weakness/) - by Susan Sampson May I begin by confessing to you all that if it were not my job to send out the weekly email, I might not take the time to listen to the lecture online. This is a hugely busy time with my daughter's high school registration, school supplies, uniforms, back to school day, - [Strong Faith](https://www.thistlebend.org/strong-faith/) - by Susan Sampson I heard Laurie tell about a family she heard about who lost their baby when the mother was full term. In the hospital the father was on his knees praising God for the life of their still born baby. Others commented on what strong faith this family had. And then what Laurie - [Hallowed](https://www.thistlebend.org/hallowed/) - by Angie Thomas I was really struck by Laurie's discussion in the lecture about God's name being "hallowed." Mariam Webster defines "hallowed" as "sacred, revered, holy or consecrated." How amazing to think that His name alone is to be revered and considered holy. David models this well for us in the Psalms. Here are just - [Old Girl Gone](https://www.thistlebend.org/old-girl-gone/) - By Susan Sampson I am reminded of the lecture. Paul writes in 1 Cor. 6:19-20, "Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price." The price was the royal blood - [Our Hearts Shepherded](https://www.thistlebend.org/our-hearts-shepherded/) - by Susan Sampson Paul writes in Ephesians 5:15-17, "Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is." So, how DO we understand what the will of - [What Gospel Are We Living?](https://www.thistlebend.org/what-gospel-are-we-living/) - by Susan Sampson The goal of our study is to not only learn more about God's Word or to learn what the gospel is, but to learn how to actually live the gospel day in and day out. To learn how to take the gospel to our hearts and bring it to life. Our goal - [Our Words](https://www.thistlebend.org/our-words/) - by Angie Thomas We had some great discussion after the video lecture about "Women and their Words." It is a very interesting thing to contemplate. We make commitments every day that we do not keep. The reasons can be many, but sometimes it is out of an idealistic mindset or naivety. We think it would - [Raging Rita](https://www.thistlebend.org/raging-rita/) - by Angie Thomas Man, if there is ever a lesson that could nail me to the wall, it would be a lesson on anger! Let's just say this is an area where the Lord has revealed much sin in my heart as a result of the anger and words that fly out of my mouth - [Mountains and Children](https://www.thistlebend.org/mountains-and-children/) - by Susan Sampson I'm sitting here reviewing my lecture notes and thankfully see the note of what to say to myself when I feel like I'm getting ready to lose it: GOD'S KINGDOM -- GOSPEL -- GRACE!! Of course I had already forgotten that Laurie said that just yesterday. Thank you, Lord, for giving me - [Our First Love](https://www.thistlebend.org/our-first-love/) - by Dottie Ryan Day 3 "Walk on Truth" lead us to Revelation 2-3 and challenges us to ask God to search our hearts to reveal where we may have 'lost our first love' -- where we may love things of the world, have unbelief, or where we may be holding on to false teaching. For - [One Friday](https://www.thistlebend.org/one-friday/) - by Susan Sampson It's 1:39 pm on Friday and I am still not out of my pajamas. I'm sure much of the world might consider this a failure of a day. I am tempted to. What have I gotten done? Not what I had hoped or planned for. What have I gotten done? I have - [Weak](https://www.thistlebend.org/weak/) - by Dottie Ryan "Blessed arethe poor in spirit, fortheirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth" (Matthew 5:3-5). I'm wondering if the truth of the Sovereignty of God is becoming clearer, and possibly, more comforting to you. Have you - [What's the Root?](https://www.thistlebend.org/whats-the-root/) - by Susan Sampson The Lord has been kindly showing me that much of my frustration stems from fear. I realized that I'm afraid of not getting it right and of my children not "getting it" or not "doing the right thing." I confessed to the Lord that I want to "get it right" more than - [Silence](https://www.thistlebend.org/silence/) - by Susan Sampson Silence. As I began to review my notes, that was the word that spoke the "loudest" to me. The Lord is so kindly shepherding me in my parenting and I am so thankful. I desperately need His help. If I was growing an actual olive tree in my back yard, I don't - [Fearless Recap](https://www.thistlebend.org/fearless-recap/) - by Dottie Ryan It is hard for me to believe that we are already coming to the close of our 6-Week journey together through this Fearless Discipleship Study. I am already missing each of you as your faces cross my mind's-eye. You have reflected the image of your Lord so beautifully. Know that! And I have learned - [Arise my Love](https://www.thistlebend.org/arise-my-love/) - by Angie Thomas I was re-reading the lecture notes from Laurie's teaching from last Tuesday night and was moved again as I read her words: Today, this week, open yourself to receive God's immeasurable, unending, unconditional love for you. Make Him your only ambition, your infatuation, your All In All. May He be your EVERYTHING. - [Choose to Stand](https://www.thistlebend.org/choose-to-stand/) - by Susan Sampson "Each day as a mother, you have a choice to make. Are you going to follow your own desires, the world, your fears, or will you follow the Lord? The choices you make will influence the choices your children make." -- from Falling in Love Again with Your Children "Among them we - [Reconnecting with our First Love](https://www.thistlebend.org/reconnecting-with-our-first-love/) - by Dottie Ryan “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart" (Deut. 6:4-6). He is our First Love! He must - [God's Power in Weakness](https://www.thistlebend.org/gods-power-in-weakness/) - by Dottie Ryan We are now more than half-way through our Fearless Study. And I wonder if we are able to say that we have stepped forward in faith? Even one step on the water? We learned that we have been deliberately sent into the storm by a Sovereign God -- who is a good God. I'll bet that - [Weakness](https://www.thistlebend.org/weakness-2/) - by Susan Sampson Calling any other weak moms... I think one of the biggest things I am learning through this study is how truly weak I really am. That wasn't exactly what I was hoping to learn. That wasn't my goal when I started the study. I wanted to learn to be a better mom. - [Missing the Moment](https://www.thistlebend.org/missing-the-moment/) - by Dottie Ryan I want to share with you a word a friend of mine spoke to me as I sat with her over tea this past week. It has really resonated with me as we talked about fear and how one of the reasons we live in fear could be us racing always ahead of God and ourselves. Looking for - [Spiritual Stepping Stones and Reminders](https://www.thistlebend.org/spiritual-stepping-stones-and-reminders/) - by Dottie Ryan “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me" (Galatians 2:20). In this past week's lecture, - [Weakness](https://www.thistlebend.org/weakness/) - by Angie Thomas So, I have been thinking a lot about our lesson this past week, "Lord, I am Weak!". Can I let you in on a little secret? I hate weakness. I know hate is a strong word, but it is an accurate description of my feelings toward weakness. To me weakness means frailty, - [Her that Halteth](https://www.thistlebend.org/her-that-halteth/) - by Susan Sampson I am "her that halteth." I want to run with diligence but am so easily distracted, deterred, so weak, and full of fear. I praise God for his promise to "save her that halteth" (Zeph. 3:19, KJV). I praise God for the gospel. I praise God that His ways are not my - [Enduring](https://www.thistlebend.org/enduring/) - by Susan Sampson As I was reading the weekly scripture verse from Hebrews 12:1-3 the Lord caught my attention. The author of Hebrews writes, "Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance - [From the Hearts of Children](https://www.thistlebend.org/from-the-hearts-of-children/) - by Amy Sizemore What a blessing it is serving your precious children. We all wished the moment could have been recorded when so many of the children volunteered to pray after our worship time. Not only are the prayers coming out of these teeny tiny people astoundingly mature and theologically accurate, but their little hearts - [Grace](https://www.thistlebend.org/grace/) - by Susan Sampson Grace! Is there a sweeter word? The love and grace that are Jesus, that God has given us in Jesus! What peace and joy and rest this brings. I think I loved this lecture so much because I am one who has spent a lifetime of performing, thinking I have to earn - [Set Free by Christ](https://www.thistlebend.org/set-free-by-christ/) - by Susan Sampson I wanted to share a note from my ESV Study Bible that encouraged me and spoke truth to my mind and heart. When I read Psalm 119 it is easy for me to get discouraged because I think, "I don't do that," or, "I don't feel that way." The study note says, - [Unconditional Love](https://www.thistlebend.org/unconditional-love/) - by Susan Sampson The words of the Lord to us - "Arise, my love, my beautiful one, and COME away" (Song of Solomon 2:13). "COME, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and he who has no money, come, buy and eat! COME, buy wine and milk without money and without price" (Isaiah 55:1). "COME - [The Royal Robe](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-royal-robe/) - by Amy Sizemore Explaining to the children how Jonathan gave his robe to David made Jesus' sacrifice so visible. I had to choke back tears of gratitude. I moved a robe from my shoulders to a child's to show what it looked like. We discussed how the robe represented royalty as well as covered David. - [A Helper Suitable](https://www.thistlebend.org/a-helper-suitable/) - by Susan Sampson May the Lord give us much grace as we seek to take the truths we are learning in His Word to heart and live them out with our husbands, truly being the helpers suitable He created us to be. "Then the Lord God said, 'It is not good for the man to - [The Pearl of "Life"](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-pearl-of-life/) - by Angie Thomas As I was reflecting on the lecture, "The Pearl of Great Price" and looking through the list of the plastic pearls that we cling to, the Lord led me back to the Precious "Life" pearl. I know this pearl well. From the time I was a little girl I have loved dreaming - [From the Lips of Children](https://www.thistlebend.org/from-the-lips-of-children/) - by Amy Sizemore "From the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise..." says Psalm 8:2. This verse comes to mind so often as I hear the deep, simple truths that come from our little ones' mouths. Like one day, when the children were answering the question, "How do you obey God?" I was - [All In?](https://www.thistlebend.org/all-in/) - by Susan Sampson So are you all in? There's not really any confusion behind the word "all" is there? All means all. It doesn't mean half-way or part way or 99% of the way. It is 100% total commitment. It is absolute abandon. Full surrender. I know my heart is not all in. I know - [The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 1:57-66 ESV 57 Now the time came for Elizabeth to give birth, and she bore a son. 58 And her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown great mercy to her, and they rejoiced with her. 59 And on the eighth day they came - [He Is God. You Don't Have to Be.](https://www.thistlebend.org/he-is-god-you-dont-have-to-be/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 1:39-56 ESV 39 In those days Mary arose and went with haste into the hill country, to a town in Judah, 40 and she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. 41 And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped in her - [Rights? Or Trust?](https://www.thistlebend.org/rights-or-trust-2/) - Thistlebend Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 1:26-38 ESV 26 Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city in Galilee, called Nazareth, 27 to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the descendants of David; and the virgin's name was Mary. 28 - [Fearless Women of God](https://www.thistlebend.org/fearless-women-of-god/) - By Dottie Ryan See now that I, even I, am he, and there is no god beside me; I kill and I make alive; I wound and I heal; and there is none that can deliver out of my hand. (Deuteronomy 32:39) We know from last week that Jesus sent out his disciples – He made them go - [Standing in Awe](https://www.thistlebend.org/standing-in-awe/) - Quiet eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 1:57-66 ESV 57 Now the time came for Elizabeth to give birth, and she bore a son. 58 And her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown great mercy to her, and they rejoiced with her. 59 And on the eighth day they came - [Take Time for Jesus](https://www.thistlebend.org/take-time-for-jesus/) - eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 1:1-4 ESV 1 In as much as many have undertaken to compile a narrative of the things that have been accomplished among us, 2 just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word have delivered them to us, 3 it seemed good to me - [Living a Life of Love for Others](https://www.thistlebend.org/living-a-life-of-love-for-others/) - eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Psalm 119:9-16 ESV 9 How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word. 10 With my whole heart I seek you; let me not wander from your commandments! 11 I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not - [Send Me, Lord!](https://www.thistlebend.org/send-me-lord/) - eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Psalm 19 ESV 1 The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork. 2 Day to day pours out speech, and night to night reveals knowledge. 3 There is no speech, nor are there words, whose voice is not heard. 4 Their voice goes - [Continue Going to the Source of Life](https://www.thistlebend.org/continue-going-to-the-source-of-life/) - by Susan Sampson Falling in love again with our Lord and our husbands. It is a process isn't it?:) The process of sanctification will continue until we go home to be with our Lord. For now, the fruit of the Spirit is love. And praise be to God, fruit grows. As the Falling in Love - [Thank You for the Wringer, Lord](https://www.thistlebend.org/thank-you-for-the-wringer-lord/) - by Susan Sampson Lord, where do I begin? Thank you for loving me perfectly, knowing completely the state of my heart. Thank you, Jesus, for clothing me with your garments of salvation and covering me with your robe of righteousness (Is. 61). Thank you, Father, for declaring me righteous and holy because of the shed - [The Devastation of Worry](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-devastation-of-worry/) - by Angie Thomas Worry. It is one of the most insidious sins. It seems natural, mature. Children don't usually worry much, but we blame it on their naivety and innocence. We think, "When they grow up and understand life, they will have much to worry about." Really, we are the ones that are naive. Mariam-Webster - [In Theory or in Truth?](https://www.thistlebend.org/in-theory-or-in-truth/) - eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 11:33-36 33 No one after lighting a lamp puts it in a cellar or under a basket, but on a stand, so that those who enter may see the light. 34 Your eye is the lamp of your body. When your eye is healthy, your whole body is full - [Repentance: A Posture of Humility](https://www.thistlebend.org/repentance-a-posture-of-humility/) - by Angie Thomas Repentance is such an interesting idea and one I understand somewhat intellectually but have a difficult time walking out. Merriam Webster defines repentance as a verb, "to turn from sin and dedicate oneself to the amendment of one's life. To change one's mind." The problem is that for a long time in - [A Fountain of Life](https://www.thistlebend.org/a-fountain-of-life/) - by Susan Sampson Psalm 63 reminds us that we live in a dry and weary land where there is no water. I desperately want to be an oasis to my husband. Too many times I have been the kiss of death! I have spoken words that have been like "sword thrusts" (Prov. 12:18). It breaks - [The Soil of Lies](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-soil-of-lies/) - eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 11:33-36 33 "No one after lighting a lamp puts it in a cellar or under a basket, but on a stand, so that those who enter may see the light. 34 Your eye is the lamp of your body. When your eye is healthy, your whole body is full - [Do We Miss Jesus?](https://www.thistlebend.org/do-we-miss-jesus/) - eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 11:29-32 29 When the crowds were increasing, he began to say, "This generation is an evil generation. It seeks for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah. 30 For as Jonah became a sign to the people of Nineveh, so will the - [Better Than Bread](https://www.thistlebend.org/better-than-bread/) - by Angie Thomas I have to admit that I like to eat and drink. The thought of starting a fast always makes my stomach churn a bit and my flesh totally balks at it! What about you? I know the thought of denying ourselves seems so foreign and strange in many ways. Especially for something - [The Sign of Jonah](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-sign-of-jonah/) - eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 11:29-32 29 When the crowds were increasing, he began to say, "This generation is an evil generation. It seeks for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah. 30 For as Jonah became a sign to the people of Nineveh, so - [A Fragrant Aroma to Your Husband](https://www.thistlebend.org/a-fragrant-aroma-to-your-husband/) - by Susan Sampson I was thinking yesterday about different aromas that I love. Burning leaves in the fall; jasmine; Christmas pine trees; Thanksgiving dinner cooking; Moonlight Path from Bath and Body Works; Pure Vanilla Extract; my husband's cologne and my dogs feet:) Don't your favorite aromas minister to your soul? Don't they bring peace and - [Who or What Am I Seeking?](https://www.thistlebend.org/who-or-what-am-i-seeking/) - eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 11:29-32 29 When the crowds were increasing, he began to say, "This generation is an evil generation. It seeks for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah. 30 For as Jonah became a sign to the people of Nineveh, so will the - [Far More Than All](https://www.thistlebend.org/far-more-than-all/) - eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 11:24-28 24 "When the unclean spirit has gone out of a person, it passes through waterless places seeking rest, and finding none it says, 'I will return to my house from which I came.' 25 And when it comes, it finds the house swept and put in order. 26 - [Faithfully Find Shelter](https://www.thistlebend.org/faithfully-find-shelter/) - eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 11:24-28 24 "When the unclean spirit has gone out of a person, it passes through waterless places seeking rest, and finding none it says, 'I will return to my house from which I came.' 25 And when it comes, it finds the house swept and put in order. 26 - [Valley of Sin](https://www.thistlebend.org/1102/) - eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 11:24-28 24 "When the unclean spirit has gone out of a person, it passes through waterless places seeking rest, and finding none it says, 'I will return to my house from which I came.' 25 And when it comes, it finds the house swept and put in order. 26 - [Lord—not just a label](https://www.thistlebend.org/lord-not-just-a-label/) - eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 11:24-28 "When the unclean spirit has gone out of a person, it passes through waterless places seeking rest, and finding none it says, 'I will return to my house from which I came.' 25 And when it comes, it finds the house swept and put in order. 26 Then - [Of Great Price](https://www.thistlebend.org/of-great-price/) - by Susan Sampson So...is there a two-headed monster living in your home? There used to be one in my home and has only been slayed by the grace of God. If you read my journal you would know. Many times I had to confess to the Lord Psalm 73:22, "I was senseless and ignorant, I - [The Finger of God](https://www.thistlebend.org/the-finger-of-god/) - eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 11:14-23 Now he was casting out a demon that was mute. When the demon had gone out, the mute man spoke, and the people marveled. 15 But some of them said, "He casts out demons by Beelzebul, the prince of demons," 16 while others, to test him, kept seeking from - [Beelzebul!](https://www.thistlebend.org/beelzebul/) - eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 11:14-23 Now he was casting out a demon that was mute. When the demon had gone out, the mute man spoke, and the people marveled. 15 But some of them said, "He casts out demons by Beelzebul, the prince of demons," 16 while others, to test him, kept seeking - [Clear the Land](https://www.thistlebend.org/clear-the-land/) - by Susan Sampson It is a great blessing and joy to know that we are not alone. We are one body in Christ and the amazing truth is that the Holy Spirit dwells in each and every believer. "For I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who - [He Knows Our Hearts](https://www.thistlebend.org/he-knows-our-hearts/) - eMoment by Laurie Aker Focus Scripture: Luke 11:14-23 Now he was casting out a demon that was mute. When the demon had gone out, the mute man spoke, and the people marveled. 15 But some of them said, "He casts out demons by Beelzebul, the prince of demons," 16 while others, to test him, kept seeking from - [Come to Me Soon](https://www.thistlebend.org/come-to-me-soon/) - by Susan Sampson Demas deserted Paul. Why? Scripture tells us he was in love with this present world. His focus was the world. His heart treasured the temporal. His mind was consumed with what he could see. He was all about SELF. He chose to please himself instead of the Lord. He chose to serve - [I Charge You!](https://www.thistlebend.org/i-charge-you/) - by Susan Sampson The Lord charged Paul, then Timothy and now He is charging each one of us. There are just 2 weeks remaining in this study. We are being given an opportunity from the Lord to take the time and think through everything we have been taught. We do not want to "turn away - [Continue in Belief!](https://www.thistlebend.org/continue-in-belief/) - by Susan Sampson Why do we live in the dungeon when we are daughters of the King of kings?! Why do we walk right back into the dungeon after Christ has set us free from the power of sin and death?! "For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit - [Avoid Such People](https://www.thistlebend.org/avoid-such-people/) - by Susan Sampson Focus passage: 2 Timothy 3:1-9. Avoid such people. This was a difficult lesson for me. When I read the focus scripture all I could think was that the description of the people fit me. It was difficult not to fall into despair and feel condemned. Praise God for the reminder and exhortation - [Guard the Word of Truth](https://www.thistlebend.org/guard-the-word-of-truth/) - by Susan Sampson Do I want to guard the treasure I've been given in my salvation by upholding God's word in my home, being the grace of God to my husband and children? Am I willing to suffer for the gospel that my husband would SEE it? "Likewise, wives, be subject to your own husbands, - [Do Your Best!](https://www.thistlebend.org/do-your-best/) - by Susan Sampson "Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth" (2 Tim. 2:15). As I asked the Lord for His help in writing this email, knowing that I cannot do it apart from His grace, I - [You Don't Have to Stay Stuck](https://www.thistlebend.org/you-dont-have-to-stay-stuck/) - By Dottie Ryan "Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!" Psalm 139:23-24 To invite the Holy Spirit to “search my heart…and try me” has been the cry of many women this - [John Piper on Sanctification](https://www.thistlebend.org/john-piper-on-sanctification/) - In light of the discussion this week as part of the Heart of a Woman Discipleship Study, we thought we would pass along this article from Tim Challies (you can see the original at Challies.com). John Piper answers some questions about the sanctification process that you might find helpful. -Thistlebend Ministries An Interview with John - [Trench Digger](https://www.thistlebend.org/trench-digger/) - by Angie Thomas This week has been “one-of-those-weeks”. Nothing overly terrible, just tough for a variety of reasons. Hormones, disobedient children, a dear friend moving out-of-state, tax preparation (need I say more). As a stay-at-home mom there are just days when the walls seem to be closing in, when quiet, adult conversation without interruption seems - [Remembering Easter Everyday](https://www.thistlebend.org/remembering-easter-everyday/) - Contributing Writer: Susan Sampson The most beautiful words jumped off the page of my bible the other day. They stared me right in the face and brought tears to my eyes as Jesus showed me just a small glimpse of what He has done for me. I have read Psalm 103 more than once, but - [This Life Versus the Next Life](https://www.thistlebend.org/this-life-versus-the-next-life/) - Contributing Writer: Amy Sizemore A prayer of David from Psalm 17:14 “Deliver my soul…from men of the world whose portion is in this life.” This life versus the next life. That’s my struggle. To live this life for life after death is radical and strange. Unless I believe it’s true. Isn’t that what Christian living - [In Christ, my Victory!](https://www.thistlebend.org/in-christ-my-victory/) - Contributing Writer: Susan Sampson You have washed me clean. I am yours because you tell me that I am. Get behind me Satan! You cannot condemn me or accuse me. Christ, the Messiah, my Lord, has made me free from accusation! He is my Righteousness! You're right, I am a sinner, who deserves to die. - [Do you love God as much as you would like to love Him?](https://www.thistlebend.org/do-you-love-god-as-much-as-you-would-like-to-love-him/) - Contributing Writer: Amy Sizemore Do you love God as much as you would like to love Him? That is the question. That is the question posed on page 13 of Falling In Love Again with Your Lord that stopped me in my tracks for 3 days. 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According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, 5 who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” 1 Peter 1:3-5 Precious Hope is part one of a two-part series on 1 Peter. Peter reminds us of the precious hope we have been given in Christ. He points us to the grace God has given us and encourages us to rejoice in our eternal inheritance as we rely on His power in the midst of affliction. Binder Format - [FALLING IN LOVE AGAIN WITH YOUR HUSBAND](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/falling-in-love-again-with-your-husband/) - Focus Scripture: 1 Peter 3:1-6 “But let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious. For this is how the holy women who hoped in God used to adorn themselves, by submitting to their own husbands…” 1 Peter 3:4-5 (ESV) Written by Laurie Aker In Falling in Love Again with Your Husband, wives are encouraged in God's Word to find true joy in their marriage and be the godly wives the Lord intended them to be through the power of the Holy Spirit. This study is intended for women who want to grow in holiness and be a blessing to their husbands (1 Pt. 3:1-2). It is not a couples study, but is specifically designed for women who seek to establish their hearts in God’s Word, honor, serve, and love their husbands, and fulfill their calling as wives. Our aim as wives is to love the Lord with all our hearts, reflect God’s image in all we do, be a pleasing and fragrant aroma to our husbands, and glorify God. It's important to note that the suggestions or recommendations are not meant to change husbands, nor do they imply that we can change anyone’s heart by doing good works. All our hope is placed in Christ and His work on the cross. There are eight lessons (nine weeks with an Introduction). Gold wire-bound Format View Sample Chapter Welcome to a Thistlebend Discipleship Study (PDF) - [JESUS, I NEED YOU](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/jesus-i-need-you/) - 4.77 out of 5 (15,000 ratings) on the YouVersion (The Bible App) adaptation This study has been an amazing journey so far! All of the ladies now look forward to digging into the Word each day and spending time with the Lord. - Cari M., Pastor's wife, Pottersville, MI Focus Scripture: Matthew 1-5 (with a focus on the Beatitudes) Written by Laurie Aker This discipleship study will challenge women to really know Jesus and look to Him in ways they may never have before. Throughout this study, the teachings of Jesus will be unfolded, and participants will be encouraged to put aside the demands of their present-day world and sit at Jesus’ feet so they might truly hear His message. As they learn to listen attentively, their hearts will be pierced by the voice of Jesus in God’s Word. They will come to know His heart and know that they can ask Him for the grace they need to obey Him fully. Be sure to order the companion study, Jesus, I Want to Love You, after completing this study. Ten lessons (eleven weeks with Introduction). Gold-wire Format View Additional Free Resources View Sample Chapter Welcome to a Thistlebend Discipleship Study (PDF) - [JESUS, I WANT TO LOVE YOU](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/jesus-i-love-you/) - 4.6 out of 5 (13,900 ratings) on the YouVersion adaptation This study is so different from anything I've ever done before. I so appreciate the way the Word of God is presented. The Lord really used the study video to open my eyes to appreciate my struggle and have a better understanding of what is happening. - Independent study participant, Deb G. Irwin, PA Focus Scripture: Matthew 1-7 (with a focus on the Sermon on the Mount) Written by Laurie Aker This study follows Jesus, I Need You and is based in the first seven chapters of Matthew, focusing primarily on the Sermon on the Mount. In Jesus, I Need You we came to know Jesus with an understanding we had not known before and realized our deep need for Him. In Jesus, I Want to Love You we will learn how to love Jesus fully in each and every area of our lives. We will be encouraged to continue to put aside the demands of our present day world and sit at the feet of our Savior and Teacher so we might truly hear His messages to us and be drawn into a radical love relationship with Him. We pray you will be blessed by this deeper study of God's Word! Eight lessons (nine weeks with Introduction). Gold-wire Format View Sample Chapter Welcome to a Thistlebend Discipleship Study (PDF) - [WHO AM I IN CHRIST?](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/who-am-i-in-christ/) - I preached a sermon series through Ephesians 1 and 2, while offering 'Who Am I In Christ?' as a complimentary study along with the series. Women and men in our church loved how this study goes deep into the Scriptures, while being helped by the application questions to apply the Scripture to their lives. I look forward to using more Thistlebend studies in our church! - Eric Miller, Senior Pastor, Capital City Grace Church, Columbus OH Focus Scripture: Ephesians 1-2 “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10 (ESV) Written by Laurie Aker Where do women find their identity? Many Christian women struggle to understand and even believe who they are in Christ. This intensive discipleship study in Ephesians will help women discover and embrace that they are uniquely made in Christ and will teach them how to think and live accordingly to glorify Him. They will gain a greater understanding that the Lord has called them and set them apart for Him and His purposes—to live the life He has prepared for them. A treasure chest of understanding will be opened regarding the inheritance and spiritual blessings they have been given in Christ. Eight lessons (nine weeks with Introduction). Gold-wire Format View Additional Free Resources View Sample Chapter Welcome to a Thistlebend Discipleship Study (PDF) - [HEART OF A WOMAN: SINFUL TO SPIRIT-FILLED! (Download Version)](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/heart-of-a-woman-sinful-to-spirit-filled-download-version/) - AMAZING!! LOVED the topic...Lots learned! Super helpful to get steps to take on how to react to struggles and trials. - Women of Grace Covenant Church, Las Cruces, NM Focus Scripture: Psalm 139:23-24 “Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!” Psalm 139:23-24 (ESV) Written by Laurie Aker The Lord has called us to be holy as He is holy. We want our hearts to reflect the holiness and righteousness of God Most High. When we are willing to see our sin from His perspective God grants us His grace to confess and overcome sin. In this discipleship study, we are led to ask the Lord to search our hearts, help us observe our actions and attitudes and identify our indwelling sin, and put off our old ways and walk in righteousness. The goal of this study is lasting heart transformation, not imparting more head knowledge. Eight lessons (nine weeks with Introduction). Downloadable PDF Format View Additional Free Resources View Sample Chapter Welcome to a Thistlebend Discipleship Study (PDF) - [JESUS, I NEED YOU (Download Version)](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/jesus-i-need-you-download-version/) - 4.77 out of 5 (15,000 ratings) on the YouVersion adaptation This study has been an amazing journey so far! All of the ladies now look forward to digging into the Word each day and spending time with the Lord. - Cari M., Pastor's wife, Pottersville, MI Focus Scripture: Matthew 1-5 (with a focus on the Beatitudes) Written by Laurie Aker This introductory-level discipleship study will challenge women to really know Jesus and look to Him in ways they may never have before. Throughout this study, the teachings of Jesus will be unfolded, and participants will be encouraged to put aside the demands of their present-day world and sit at Jesus’ feet so they might truly hear His message. As they learn to listen attentively, their hearts will be pierced by the voice of Jesus in God’s Word. They will come to know His heart and know that they can ask Him for the grace they need to obey Him fully. Be sure to order the companion study, Jesus, I Want to Love You, after completing this study. Ten lessons (eleven weeks with Introduction). Downloadable PDF Format View Additional Free Resources View Sample Chapter Welcome to a Thistlebend Discipleship Study (PDF) - [JESUS, I WANT TO LOVE YOU (Download Version)](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/jesus-i-want-to-love-you-download/) - 4.6 out of 5 (13,900 ratings) on the YouVersion adaptation This study is so different from anything I've ever done before. I so appreciate the way the Word of God is presented. The Lord really used the study video to open my eyes to appreciate my struggle and have a better understanding of what is happening. - Independent study participant, Deb G. Irwin, PA Focus Scripture: Matthew 1-7 (with a focus on the Sermon on the Mount) Written by Laurie Aker This study follows Jesus, I Need You and is based in the first seven chapters of Matthew, focusing primarily on the Sermon on the Mount. In Jesus, I Need You we came to know Jesus with an understanding we had not known before and realized our deep need for Him. In Jesus, I Want to Love You we will learn how to love Jesus fully in each and every area of our lives. We will be encouraged to continue to put aside the demands of our present day world and sit at the feet of our Savior and Teacher so we might truly hear His messages to us and be drawn into a radical love relationship with Him. We pray you will be blessed by this deeper study of God's Word! Eight lessons (nine weeks with Introduction). Coil-bound Format View Sample Chapter Welcome to a Thistlebend Discipleship Study (PDF) - [FALLING IN LOVE AGAIN WITH YOUR HUSBAND (Download Version)](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/falling-in-love-again-with-your-husband-download-version/) - Focus Scripture: 1 Peter 3:1-6 “But let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious. For this is how the holy women who hoped in God used to adorn themselves, by submitting to their own husbands…” 1 Peter 3:4-5 (ESV) Written by Laurie Aker Divorce statistics are heartbreaking. Marriage, as the Lord defines it, is under attack. Couples in our churches are hurting. In Falling In Love Again With Your Husband, wives learn what they were created for, how to fulfill their God-given role, and how to silence the lies that can destroy their marriage and cripple their oneness with the Lord. The world throws out plenty of suggestions for women in their marriages, even those that “seem” right. This much-needed study leads women to the truth in God’s Word to seek His plan and perspective for them. Women are instructed and encouraged to be the godly wife the Lord intended them to be and to find true joy in their marriage, according to His Word and through the power of the Holy Spirit. Many women who have taken this study have testified to their marriages being transformed. Eight lessons (nine weeks with Introduction). Downloadable PDF Format View Sample Chapter Welcome to a Thistlebend Discipleship Study (PDF) - [WHO AM I IN CHRIST? (Download Version)](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/who-am-i-in-christ-download-version/) - I preached a sermon series through Ephesians 1 and 2, while offering 'Who Am I In Christ?' as a complimentary study along with the series. Women and men in our church loved how this study goes deep into the Scriptures, while being helped by the application questions to apply the Scripture to their lives. I look forward to using more Thistlebend studies in our church! - Eric Miller, Senior Pastor, Capital City Grace Church, Columbus OH Focus Scripture: Ephesians 1-2 “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10 (ESV) Written by Laurie Aker Where do women find their identity? Many Christian women struggle to understand and even believe who they are in Christ. This intensive Ephesian discipleship study will help women discover and embrace that they are uniquely made in Christ and teach them how to think and live accordingly to glorify Him. They will better understand that the Lord has called them and set them apart for Him and His purposes—to live the life He has prepared for them. A treasure chest of understanding will be opened regarding the inheritance and spiritual blessings they have been given in Christ. Eight lessons (nine weeks with Introduction). Downloadable PDF Format View Additional Free Resources View Sample Chapter Welcome to a Thistlebend Discipleship Study (PDF) - [STRENGTHENED BY GRACE](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/strengthened-by-grace/) - This is absolutely the best study I have ever been involved in. The past few weeks since my involvement in Thistlebend have truly been life-changing! - Local class participant, Nancy K. I have learned and grown so much studying with you and the other ladies at Thistlebend. I always look forward to our time together and I feel like God blesses me every week! - Online study participant, Sarah D. Strengthened by Grace: A Study in 2 Timothy "I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well. 6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, 7 for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” - 2 Timothy 1:5-7 This study of the book of 2nd Timothy will leave you encouraged, edified, and equipped as you spend time with Paul seeking to gain a greater understanding of his vision for discipleship and his heart for Timothy. Paul was a disciple committed to living for Christ. Paul instructed Timothy as he passed to him the baton of shepherding and the responsibility of guarding the gospel. View Sample Chapter Welcome to a Thistlebend Discipleship Study (PDF) - [HEART OF A WOMAN: SINFUL TO SPIRIT-FILLED!](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/heart-of-a-woman/) - AMAZING!! LOVED the topic...Lots learned! Super helpful to get steps to take on how to react to struggles and trials. - Women of Grace Covenant Church, Las Cruces, NM Focus Scripture: Psalm 139:23-24 “Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!” Psalm 139:23-24 (ESV) Written by Laurie Aker The Lord has called us to be holy as He is holy. We want our hearts to reflect the holiness and righteousness of God Most High. When we are willing to see our sin from His perspective God grants us His grace to confess and overcome sin. In this discipleship study, we are led to ask the Lord to search our hearts, help us observe our actions and attitudes and identify our indwelling sin, and put off our old ways and walk in righteousness. The goal of this study is lasting heart transformation, not imparting more head knowledge. Eight lessons (nine weeks with Introduction). Gold-wire Format View Additional Free Resources View Sample Chapter Welcome to a Thistlebend Discipleship Study (PDF) - [WALK IN CHRIST](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/walk-in-christ/) - Focus Scripture: Ephesians 3-6:9 “Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. 2 And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God." Ephesians 5:1-2 (ESV) Written by Laurie Aker As believers we are in Christ, but how do we walk in Him? Explore what Paul teaches the Ephesians and all believers, walking in Christ, communing with Christ, depending on Christ, living like Christ, and maturing in Christ. The emphasis of this study is learning how to apply the spiritual disciplines God has given us for growth in spiritual maturity. The goal of "Walk in Christ" is to help participants grow in their love for and obedience to Jesus Christ to the glory of God. Where do we find the power to live in Christ? In Christ alone. Six lessons (seven weeks with introduction). Gold-wire Format Welcome to a Thistlebend Discipleship Study (PDF) - [STRENGTHENED BY GRACE (Download Version)](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/strengthened-by-grace-download-version/) - This is absolutely the best study I have ever been involved in. The past few weeks since my involvement in Thistlebend have truly been life-changing! - Local class participant, Nancy K. I have learned and grown so much studying with you and the other ladies at Thistlebend. I always look forward to our time together and I feel like God blesses me every week! - Online study participant, Sarah D. Strengthened by Grace: A Study in 2 Timothy "I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well. 6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, 7 for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” - 2 Timothy 1:5-7 This study of the book of 2nd Timothy will leave you encouraged, edified, and equipped as you spend time with Paul seeking to gain a greater understanding of his vision for discipleship and his heart for Timothy. Paul was a disciple committed to living for Christ. Paul instructed Timothy as he passed to him the baton of shepherding and the responsibility of guarding the gospel. View Sample Chapter Welcome to a Thistlebend Discipleship Study (PDF) - [WALK IN CHRIST (Download Version)](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/walk-in-christ-download-version/) - Focus Scripture: Ephesians 3-6:9 “Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. 2 And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God." Ephesians 5:1-2 (ESV) Written by Laurie Aker As believers we are in Christ, but how do we walk in Him? Explore what Paul teaches the Ephesians and all believers, walking in Christ, communing with Christ, depending on Christ, living like Christ, and maturing in Christ. The emphasis of this study is learning how to apply the spiritual disciplines God has given us for growth in spiritual maturity. The goal of "Walk in Christ" is to help participants grow in their love for and obedience to Jesus Christ to the glory of God. Where do we find the power to live in Christ? In Christ alone. Six lessons (seven weeks with introduction). PDF Download View Sample Chapter Welcome to a Thistlebend Discipleship Study (PDF) - [STAND FIRM IN CHRIST (Download Version)](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/stand-firm-in-christ-download-version/) - Focus Scripture: Ephesians 6:10-24 "Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm." - Ephesians 6:13 (ESV) Written by Laurie Aker Six lessons (seven weeks with introduction). PDF Download View Sample Chapter Welcome to a Thistlebend Discipleship Study (PDF) - [STAND FIRM IN CHRIST](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/stand-firm-in-christ/) - Focus Scripture: Ephesians 6:10-24 "Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm." - Ephesians 6:13 (ESV) Written by Laurie Aker Six lessons (seven weeks with introduction). Gold-wire Format Welcome to a Thistlebend Discipleship Study (PDF) - [FALLING IN LOVE AGAIN WITH YOUR LORD (Download Version)](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/falling-in-love-again-with-your-lord-download/) - 4.71 out of 5 (16,642 ratings) on the YouVersion adaptation Seeking for our women to have some structured time for authentic discipleship discussion around God’s word has also been a desire of our ministry as we want genuine community for our women and mentor relationships to form. Thistlebend directly helps us live out our mission to our women and therefore also directly impacts our entire church body and we are so thankful! - Women's Ministry Leader, Fellowship Church, Louisville, KY Focus Scripture: Psalm 63 “O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water.” Psalm 63:1-2 (ESV) Written by Laurie Aker So many Christian women today long to know and love the Lord but don’t know how. In this discipleship study, women are taught from God’s word what it really means to love the Lord with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. As they journey through David’s Psalm 63, women will experience the kind of thirst-quenching relationship the Lord desires to have with them. Many women from many different backgrounds and churches have experienced radical heart and life transformation through this study. Falling In Love Again With Your Lord is, in the words of Dr. Heath Lambert, “robustly biblical, incredibly practical, and urgently needed.” Eight lessons (nine weeks with Introduction). View Additional FREE Resources View Sample Chapter Welcome to a Thistlebend Discipleship Study (PDF) - [WHO AM I IN CHRIST? - LEADER STARTER KIT](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/who-am-i-in-christ-leader-starter-kit/) - Our Leader’s Starter Kit has everything you need to get started: Quick Reference Guide with QR Code to many digital Leaders' Resources Access to audio/video teaching for large group class time, class handouts, etc. (a password is provided for all password-protected content) Leader’s Guide Part One includes weekly in-class discussion guides for small groups, checklists for leaders to help them shepherd the women in their group, and a prayer guide for praying for the ladies in their group. Part Two includes many helpful (but optional) documents and templates: Thistlebend Orientation booklet, a timeline checklist for planning and leading a Thistlebend study, syllabus, weekly agenda, contact rosters, Scripture memory tools (bookmarks or cards), homework accountability cards, Take the Truth to Heart cards, affirmation and commitment form, small group guidelines, sample announcements, sample weekly encouragement email, sample hostess checklist, TLC care forms, time management form, etc. The Leader’s Guide also lists a private link on our website where all these documents can be accessed for printing and even adjusted for personalization for your group. A Thistlebend "Bring the Truth to Life" Manual A Thistlebend "Bring the Truth to Life" Journal A Thistlebend Hymns of Praise booklet, listing all our favorite hymn lyrics A sample pack of ten "Take the Truth to Heart" cards 15-30 minute free consultation by request: info@thistlebend.org - [HEART OF A WOMAN - LEADER STARTER KIT](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/heart-of-a-woman-leader-starter-kit/) - Our Leader’s Starter Kit has everything you need to get started: Quick Reference Guide with QR Code to many digital Leaders' Resources Access to audio/video teaching for large group class time, class handouts, etc. (a password is provided for all password-protected content) Leader’s Guide Part One includes weekly in-class discussion guides for small groups, checklists for leaders to help them shepherd the women in their group, and a prayer guide for praying for the ladies in their group. Part Two includes many helpful (but optional) documents and templates: Thistlebend Orientation booklet, a timeline checklist for planning and leading a Thistlebend study, syllabus, weekly agenda, contact rosters, Scripture memory tools (bookmarks or cards), homework accountability cards, Take the Truth to Heart cards, affirmation and commitment form, small group guidelines, sample announcements, sample weekly encouragement email, sample hostess checklist, TLC care forms, time management form, etc. The Leader’s Guide also lists a private link on our website where all these documents can be accessed for printing and even adjusted for personalization for your group. A Thistlebend "Bring the Truth to Life" Manual A Thistlebend "Bring the Truth to Life" Journal A Thistlebend Hymns of Praise booklet, listing all our favorite hymn lyrics A sample pack of ten "Take the Truth to Heart" cards - [JESUS I WANT TO LOVE YOU - LEADER STARTER KIT](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/jesus-i-want-to-love-you-leader-starter-kit/) - Our Leader’s Starter Kit has everything you need to get started: Quick Reference Guide with QR Code to many digital Leaders' Resources Access to audio/video teaching for large group class time, class handouts, etc. (a password is provided for all password-protected content) Leader’s Guide Part One includes weekly in-class discussion guides for small groups, checklists for leaders to help them shepherd the women in their group, and a prayer guide for praying for the ladies in their group. Part Two includes many helpful (but optional) documents and templates: Thistlebend Orientation booklet, a timeline checklist for planning and leading a Thistlebend study, syllabus, weekly agenda, contact rosters, Scripture memory tools (bookmarks or cards), homework accountability cards, Take the Truth to Heart cards, affirmation and commitment form, small group guidelines, sample announcements, sample weekly encouragement email, sample hostess checklist, TLC care forms, time management form, etc. The Leader’s Guide also lists a private link on our website where all these documents can be accessed for printing and even adjusted for personalization for your group. A Thistlebend "Bring the Truth to Life" Manual A Thistlebend "Bring the Truth to Life" Journal A Thistlebend Hymns of Praise booklet, listing all our favorite hymn lyrics A sample pack of ten "Take the Truth to Heart" cards 15-30 minute consultation by request: info@thistlebend.org - [JESUS I NEED YOU - LEADER STARTER KIT](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/jesus-i-need-you-leader-starter-kit/) - Our Leader’s Starter Kit has everything you need to get started: Quick Reference Guide with QR Code to many digital Leaders' Resources Access to audio/video teaching for large group class time, class handouts, etc. (a password is provided for all password-protected content) Leader’s Guide Part One includes weekly in-class discussion guides for small groups, checklists for leaders to help them shepherd the women in their group, and a prayer guide for praying for the ladies in their group. Part Two includes many helpful (but optional) documents and templates: Thistlebend Orientation booklet, a timeline checklist for planning and leading a Thistlebend study, syllabus, weekly agenda, contact rosters, Scripture memory tools (bookmarks or cards), homework accountability cards, Take the Truth to Heart cards, affirmation and commitment form, small group guidelines, sample announcements, sample weekly encouragement email, sample hostess checklist, TLC care forms, time management form, etc. The Leader’s Guide also lists a private link on our website where all these documents can be accessed for printing and even adjusted for personalization for your group. A Thistlebend "Bring the Truth to Life" Manual A Thistlebend "Bring the Truth to Life" Journal A Thistlebend Hymns of Praise booklet, listing all our favorite hymn lyrics A sample pack of ten "Take the Truth to Heart" cards - [FALLING IN LOVE AGAIN WITH YOUR LORD - LEADER STARTER KIT](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/falling-in-love-again-with-your-lord-leader-starter-kit/) - Our Leader’s Starter Kit has everything you need to get started: Quick Reference Guide with QR Code to many digital Leaders' Resources Access to audio/video teaching for large group class time, class handouts, etc. (a password is provided for all password-protected content) Leader’s Guide Part One includes weekly in-class discussion guides for small groups, checklists for leaders to help them shepherd the women in their group, and a prayer guide for praying for the ladies in their group. Part Two includes many helpful (but optional) documents and templates: Thistlebend Orientation booklet, a timeline checklist for planning and leading a Thistlebend study, syllabus, weekly agenda, contact rosters, Scripture memory tools (bookmarks or cards), homework accountability cards, Take the Truth to Heart cards, affirmation and commitment form, small group guidelines, sample announcements, sample weekly encouragement email, sample hostess checklist, TLC care forms, time management form, etc. The Leader’s Guide also lists a private link on our website where all these documents can be accessed for printing and even adjusted for personalization for your group. A Thistlebend "Bring the Truth to Life" Manual A Thistlebend "Bring the Truth to Life" Journal A Thistlebend Hymns of Praise booklet, listing all our favorite hymn lyrics A sample pack of Ten "Take the Truth to Heart" cards - [FALLING IN LOVE AGAIN WITH YOUR LORD](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/falling-in-love-again-with-your-lord/) - 4.71 out of 5 (16,642 ratings) on the YouVersion (The Bible App) adaptation Seeking for our women to have some structured time for authentic discipleship discussion around God’s word has also been a desire of our ministry as we want genuine community for our women and mentor relationships to form. Thistlebend directly helps us live out our mission to our women and therefore also directly impacts our entire church body and we are so thankful! - Women's Ministry Leader, Fellowship Church, Louisville, KY Focus Scripture: Psalm 63 “O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water.” Psalm 63:1-2 (ESV) Written by Laurie Aker So many Christian women today long to know and love the Lord but don’t know how. In this discipleship study, women are taught from God’s word what it really means to love the Lord with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. As they journey through David’s Psalm 63, women will experience the kind of thirst-quenching relationship the Lord desires to have with them. Many women from many different backgrounds and churches have experienced radical heart and life transformation through this study. Falling In Love Again With Your Lord is, in the words of Dr. Heath Lambert, “robustly biblical, incredibly practical, and urgently needed.” Eight lessons (nine weeks with Introduction). Gold-wire Format View Additional Free Resources View Sample Chapter - [FALLING IN LOVE AGAIN WITH YOUR HUSBAND - Special Study Bundle](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/falling-in-love-again-with-your-husband-special-study-bundle/) - Focus Scripture: 1 Peter 3:1-6 “But let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious. For this is how the holy women who hoped in God used to adorn themselves, by submitting to their own husbands…” 1 Peter 3:4-5 (ESV) Written by Laurie Aker Divorce statistics are heartbreaking. Marriage, as the Lord defines it, is under attack. Couples in our churches are hurting. In Falling In Love Again With Your Husband, wives learn what they were created for, how to fulfill their God-given role, and how to silence the lies that can destroy their marriage and cripple their oneness with the Lord. The world throws out plenty of suggestions for women in their marriages, even those that “seem” right. This much-needed study leads women to the truth in God’s Word to seek His plan and perspective for them. Women are instructed and encouraged to be the godly wife the Lord intended them to be and to find true joy in their marriage, according to His Word and through the power of the Holy Spirit. Many women who have taken this study have testified to their marriages being transformed. Eight lessons (nine weeks with Introduction). Special Study Bundle Includes: Workbook All companion audio and video sent to your designated email Bookmark Scripture memory cards Personal journal 3 pastel highlighters - [FALLING IN LOVE AGAIN WITH YOUR LORD - Special Study Bundle](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/falling-in-love-again-with-your-lord-special-study-bundle/) - Seeking for our women to have some structured time for authentic discipleship discussion around God’s word has also been a desire of our ministry as we want genuine community for our women and mentor relationships to form. Thistlebend directly helps us live out our mission to our women and therefore also directly impacts our entire church body and we are so thankful! - Women's Ministry Leader, Fellowship Church, Louisville, KY Focus Scripture: Psalm 63 “O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water.” Psalm 63:1-2 (ESV) Written by Laurie Aker So many Christian women today long to know and love the Lord but don’t know how. In this discipleship study, women are taught from God’s word what it really means to love the Lord with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. As they journey through David’s Psalm 63, women will experience the kind of thirst-quenching relationship the Lord desires to have with them. Many women from many different backgrounds and churches have experienced radical heart and life transformation through this study. Falling In Love Again With Your Lord is, in the words of Dr. Heath Lambert, “robustly biblical, incredibly practical, and urgently needed.” Eight lessons (nine weeks with Introduction). Gold-wire Format Special Study Bundle Includes: Workbook All companion audio and video sent to your designated email Bookmark Scripture memory cards Personal journal 3 pastel highlighters View Additional Free Resources View Sample Chapter - [FALLING IN LOVE AGAIN WITH YOUR HUSBAND LEADER STARTER KIT](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/falling-in-love-again-with-your-husband-leader-starter-kit/) - Our Leader’s Starter Kit has everything you need to get started: Quick Reference Guide with QR Code to many digital Leaders' Resources Access to audio/video teaching for large group class time, class handouts, etc. (a password is provided for all password-protected content) Leader’s Guide Part One includes weekly in-class discussion guides for small groups, checklists for leaders to help them shepherd the women in their group, and a prayer guide for praying for the ladies in their group. Part Two includes many helpful (but optional) documents and templates: Thistlebend Orientation booklet, a timeline checklist for planning and leading a Thistlebend study, syllabus, weekly agenda, contact rosters, Scripture memory tools (bookmarks or cards), homework accountability cards, Take the Truth to Heart cards, affirmation and commitment form, small group guidelines, sample announcements, sample weekly encouragement email, sample hostess checklist, TLC care forms, time management form, etc. The Leader’s Guide also lists a private link on our website where all these documents can be accessed for printing and even adjusted for personalization for your group. A Thistlebend "Bring the Truth to Life" Manual A Thistlebend "Bring the Truth to Life" Journal A Thistlebend Hymns of Praise booklet, listing all our favorite hymn lyrics A sample pack of ten "Take the Truth to Heart" cards 15-30 minute free consultation by request: info@thistlebend.org - [PEARLS AND PROMISES](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/pearls-and-promises/) - 4.02 out of 5 (5,590 ratings) on the YouVersion adaptation An independent devotional: Taking steps toward falling in love again with your husband Written by Laurie Aker This 30-day devotional will lead women toward falling in love again with their husband. It will challenge wives to have a biblical perspective toward their husband and to walk in the truth of God's Word. The Lord will use it to begin to transform hearts, lives, and marriages! - [SEEDS OF SPRING](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/seeds-of-spring/) - 4.53 out of 5 (74,370 ratings) on the YouVersion adaptation Note: The YouVersion adaptation is similar but not identical to this version. An Independent Devotional: A Women's 40-day Journey, Planting Seeds of Righteousness Written by Laurie Aker The Bible often uses seasons to illustrate God’s work in us. This 40-day women’s devotional uses a garden as a metaphor for growing in Christ. Each day you will receive a “Seed of Truth” (Scripture) and directions on how to “Plant the Seed” (take it to heart) and “Water the Seed” (apply). Be excited! The Lord will grow a beautiful garden of His character in your heart, overflowing with the fullness of the Lord. This study, along with its companion men's study, Edified and Equipped, can be done together by couples! This is a companion study with Edified and Equipped - [FEARLESS](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/fearless/) - 4.5 out of 5 (32,452 ratings) on the YouVersion adaptation An independent devotional: A six-week journey, fearful to fearless Written by Laurie Aker This study focuses on how to live with faith in the face of fear. It offers a powerful, biblical message on moving beyond the fear that overwhelms us daily and holds us back. Identify with Peter and his fears and failures and then learn how to overcome the fear and enjoy a whole new life of freedom, fearlessness, and effectiveness in your life. We provide curriculum primarily for women, but we know men visit our site and use our materials, so this is an item that a couple could do together or that men could do independently as well. - [EDIFIED AND EQUIPPED](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/edified-and-equipped/) - An independent devotional: A men's study in Ephesians Written by Kevin and Laurie Aker The Bible often uses seasons to illustrate God’s work in us. This six-week devotional uses a garden as a metaphor for growing in Christ. Each day you will receive a “Seed of Truth” (Scripture) and directions on how to “Plant the Seed” (take it to heart) and “Water the Seed” (apply). Be excited! You will be edified and equipped to display His character in your heart and in your life. We provide curriculum primarily for women, but because men visit our site and use our materials, this is an item (along with its companion women's study, Seeds of Spring) that a couple could do together or that men could do independently as well. This is a companion study with Seeds of Spring - [QUIET MOMENTS IN THE PSALMS](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/quiet-moments-psalms/) - A Compilation of Thistlebend's Popular Daily Email Devotions, Thistlebend Quiet eMoments by Laurie Aker A collection of meditations on select Psalms drawn from the Thistlebend Quiet eMoments. This one-month devotional will deepen your appreciation of the Word of God and push you to draw ever closer to your Lord as you read and meditate on these ancient yet powerfully relevant songs and poetry of Scripture. The Psalms are a great springboard for heartfelt praise and gratitude, honest confession, and intimate dependence on the Lord for all things. - [TALK WITH THE LORD: JOURNAL TRIO](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/talk-with-the-lord-journal-trio/) - Beautiful Journal Trio with Thistle Charm Set of 3 (cost includes tax) - [IN THE GARDEN COMPANION PRAYER BINDER](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/in-the-garden-companion-prayer-binder/) - Fully customizable 5 full-page Binder Tabs, 10 sub-dividers tabs, 130 lined pages, 10 section dividers, 10 quick reference prayer guides, separate personal prayer journal and travel prayer guide. The companion In the Garden Prayer Book is also available. Leader's Kit Available by request $14.99 - [THIRTY-ONE TRUTHS](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/thirty-one-truths/) - An independent devotional: Who I Am in Christ from Ephesians 1-2 Written by Laurie Aker and Scott Kaczorowski A snapshot look at how Ephesians 1-2 portrays our new identity in Christ. This devotional study will spur us on to more fully live out this new identity we have been given in Him. Spend the following 31 days developing the habit of taking the truths from these chapters to heart and become who you have been called to be—bring the gospel to life! We provide curriculum primarily for women, but we know men visit our site and use our materials, so this is an item that a couple could do together or that men could do independently as well. An alternate men's cover is included. - [LORD, LOOK INSIDE MY HEART](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/lord-look-inside-heart/) - 4.62 out of 5 (18,775 ratings) on the YouVersion adaptation The Lord has used this study and other Thistlebend studies to disciple me in the word in a way I had never been before. He spoke truth into my heart and did a powerful work in my life as I was challenged to repent and completely surrender to the Lord and His word. - Whitney T., Amazon Customer Due to the popularity of this study on YouVersion, we've published a trade book version that takes you deeper on your journey to a complete heart transformation! by Laurie Aker We want to be holy as He is holy and learn to love the Lord with all our heart. This book walks us through an engaging, interactive process with the Lord to completely transform our hearts. We will have an opportunity to look at our weaknesses and sins from a new perspective. Opportunity may not seem like the right word, but in reality we too often ignore the symptoms of sin in our lives, and we don't take the time, have the focus, or trust in the Lord to look into the depths of our sin in order to root it out. This book will help us begin to see this process with a sense of hope and anticipation. Knowing that the Lord loves us and is with us, we will be asking Him to reveal to us the darkness hidden within our hearts and to help us focus on His holiness and the grace He has given us to overcome our sin. Expect to experience not merely head knowledge, but deeper joy in the Lord and radical, sustained heart transformation. This book is part of the Heart of a Woman series, which includes 1) an abbreviated reading plan on YouVersion called Jesus, Look Inside My Heart; 2) this trade book version called Lord, Look Inside My Heart; and 3) the full, in depth discipleship Bible study called Heart of a Woman. Paperback Enter code SHIPFREE at checkout for free shipping on one copy of this book! (Free shipping is invalid when combined with different products.) - [GOSPEL READY: BEYOND THE CALL OF DUTY (Download Version)](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/gospel-ready/) - Electronic Version Do you want to be ready to share the gospel anytime, anywhere, with anyone? Is it your heart’s desire to be the Spirit-filled ambassador of Christ that the Lord has called you to be? All of us have been charged with the assignment of sharing the gospel. We may struggle with this assignment because we lack the confidence, the passion, or even the know-how to do it. But if Christ is our Savior, then we are His and we have been called for this very purpose. “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy”(1 Pet. 2:9-10). Through this study ask the Lord to speak to your heart and open your ears to hear what he has to say to you. - [IN THE GARDEN PRAYER BOOK](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/garden-prayer-journal/) - A reusable Monthly Prayer Guide and Study Book 315 pages This companion prayer journal can be used along with our study In the Garden Companion Prayer Binder, which comes in a mini-binder format with blank lined pages for both personal and intercessory prayer and tabs for designating days of the week. Further instructions for setting up the journal can be found on our In the Garden resources page. Leader's Kit Available by request $14.99 View Sample Chapter - [GOSPEL MINI-BOOKLET](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/gospel-tract-taking-gospel-heart-bringing-life/) - Set of 10 beautifully illustrated gospel mini-books. This beautifully designed gospel booklet clearly communicates the gospel and offers a suggested prayer at the end. 16-page, square 4″ x 4″ booklet, which is an easy size to hand to people in your life. Suggestions for How to Share These Gospel Mini-Booklets: 1. Place it in a greeting card for any occasion. 2. Leave one with a (generous) tip for your restaurant server. 3. Give to the cashier when you check out. 4. Include with a gift you give or a meal you provide. 5. Hand one to your delivery driver (mail, UPS, FedEx, etc.) 6. Consider options that might involve your children or other family members – like handing them out when visiting a nursing home. 7. Post one on a community bulletin board. 8. Place several in the waiting room of your doctor’s office or hospital. 9. Hand one to your hair stylist, dry cleaner, mechanic, or other service provider. 10. Give one to the drive-through employee when he/she hands you your food. Notes to Keep in Mind: -Pray through for your own heart and then ask the Lord to show you with whom to share it. -Make a list and pray for those with whom you could share the booklet. -Make a plan to follow up with those to whom you gave the tract. -Prepare your testimony so you are ready if someone wants to discuss the message or may have questions. - [WHO AM I? DEVOTIONAL JOURNAL](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/who-am-i-devotional-journal/) - Pursue a deeper and more intimate relationship with your Lord. Know God. Know yourself. Are you tempted to rely on your own feelings rather than what God has to say about you? Begin a new journey of discovery with the Lord with our new devotional study and a 60-page companion journal for reflection and prayer. A perfect way to begin 2023! - [STRENGTHENED BY GRACE - LEADER STARTER KIT](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/strengthened-by-grace-leader-starter-kit/) - Our Leader’s Starter Kit has everything you need to get started: Quick Reference Guide with QR Code to many digital Leaders' Resources Access to audio/video teaching for large group class time, class handouts, etc. (a password is provided for all password-protected content) Leader’s Guide Part One includes weekly in-class discussion guides for small groups, checklists for leaders to help them shepherd the women in their group, and a prayer guide for praying for the ladies in their group. Part Two includes many helpful (but optional) documents and templates: Thistlebend Orientation booklet, a timeline checklist for planning and leading a Thistlebend study, syllabus, weekly agenda, contact rosters, Scripture memory tools (bookmarks or cards), homework accountability cards, Take the Truth to Heart cards, affirmation and commitment form, small group guidelines, sample announcements, sample weekly encouragement email, sample hostess checklist, TLC care forms, time management form, etc. The Leader’s Guide also lists a private link on our website where all these documents can be accessed for printing and even adjusted for personalization for your group. A Thistlebend "Bring the Truth to Life" Manual A Thistlebend "Bring the Truth to Life" Journal A Thistlebend Hymns of Praise booklet, listing all our favorite hymn lyrics A sample pack of ten "Take the Truth to Heart" cards 15-30 minute free consultation by request: info@thistlebend.org - [WALK IN CHRIST - LEADER STARTER KIT](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/walk-in-christ-leader-starter-kit/) - Our Leader’s Starter Kit has everything you need to get started: Quick Reference Guide with QR Code to many digital Leaders' Resources Access to audio/video teaching for large group class time, class handouts, etc. (a password is provided for all password-protected content) Leader’s Guide Part One includes weekly in-class discussion guides for small groups, checklists for leaders to help them shepherd the women in their group, and a prayer guide for praying for the ladies in their group. Part Two includes many helpful (but optional) documents and templates: Thistlebend Orientation booklet, a timeline checklist for planning and leading a Thistlebend study, syllabus, weekly agenda, contact rosters, Scripture memory tools (bookmarks or cards), homework accountability cards, Take the Truth to Heart cards, affirmation and commitment form, small group guidelines, sample announcements, sample weekly encouragement email, sample hostess checklist, TLC care forms, time management form, etc. The Leader’s Guide also lists a private link on our website where all these documents can be accessed for printing and even adjusted for personalization for your group. A Thistlebend "Bring the Truth to Life" Manual A Thistlebend "Bring the Truth to Life" Journal A Thistlebend Hymns of Praise booklet, listing all our favorite hymn lyrics A sample pack of ten "Take the Truth to Heart" cards 15-30 minute free consultation by request: info@thistlebend.org - [STAND FIRM IN CHRIST - LEADER STARTER KIT](https://www.thistlebend.org/product/stand-firm-in-christ-leader-starter-kit/) - Our Leader’s Starter Kit has everything you need to get started: Quick Reference Guide with QR Code to many digital Leaders' Resources Access to audio/video teaching for large group class time, class handouts, etc. (a password is provided for all password-protected content) Leader’s Guide Part One includes weekly in-class discussion guides for small groups, checklists for leaders to help them shepherd the women in their group, and a prayer guide for praying for the ladies in their group. Part Two includes many helpful (but optional) documents and templates: Thistlebend Orientation booklet, a timeline checklist for planning and leading a Thistlebend study, syllabus, weekly agenda, contact rosters, Scripture memory tools (bookmarks or cards), homework accountability cards, Take the Truth to Heart cards, affirmation and commitment form, small group guidelines, sample announcements, sample weekly encouragement email, sample hostess checklist, TLC care forms, time management form, etc. The Leader’s Guide also lists a private link on our website where all these documents can be accessed for printing and even adjusted for personalization for your group. A Thistlebend "Bring the Truth to Life" Manual A Thistlebend "Bring the Truth to Life" Journal A Thistlebend Hymns of Praise booklet, listing all our favorite hymn lyrics A sample pack of ten "Take the Truth to Heart" cards 15-30 minute free consultation by request: info@thistlebend.org ## Portfolio Items - [Leader's Kit Resources](https://www.thistlebend.org/portfolio-item/leaders-kits/) - Leadership and Discipleship Study Training - [Leader Resources](https://www.thistlebend.org/portfolio-item/leader-resources/) - Leader Resources Welcome! Thank you for purchasing a Thistlebend Discipleship Leader Kit and for trusting us to walk alongside you as you lead your group! We hope you will find the content here encouraging to you in your role. This page is meant to be accessed by those who have purchased a Thistlebend Discipleship Study Leader - [Falling in Love Again with Your Children](https://www.thistlebend.org/portfolio-item/falling-in-love-again-with-your-children/) - A discipleship study on parenting - [Seeds of Spring](https://www.thistlebend.org/portfolio-item/seeds-spring/) - A devotional study in Ephesians - [Seaworthy](https://www.thistlebend.org/portfolio-item/seaworthy/) - Building a Marriage that Will Endure the Storm - [Living Hope](https://www.thistlebend.org/portfolio-item/living-hope/) - A discipleship study on hope in suffering using 1 Peter 3-5 ## Categories - [Uncategorized](https://www.thistlebend.org/category/uncategorized/) - [thistlebendministries](https://www.thistlebend.org/category/thistlebendministries/) - [Doctrine](https://www.thistlebend.org/category/doctrine/) - [Gospel Moments](https://www.thistlebend.org/category/gospel-moments/) - [Heart of a Woman](https://www.thistlebend.org/category/heart-of-a-woman/) - [Fearless](https://www.thistlebend.org/category/fearless/) - [Book Reflections](https://www.thistlebend.org/category/book-reflections/) - [Reflections](https://www.thistlebend.org/category/reflections/) - [In the Garden](https://www.thistlebend.org/category/in-the-garden/) - [Falling in Love Again with Your Lord](https://www.thistlebend.org/category/falling-in-love-again-with-your-lord/) - [Falling in Love Again with Your Husband](https://www.thistlebend.org/category/falling-in-love-again-with-your-husband/) - [Jesus I Need You](https://www.thistlebend.org/category/jesus-i-need-you/) - [Jesus I Want to Love You](https://www.thistlebend.org/category/jesus-i-want-to-love-you/) - [Who Am I In Christ?](https://www.thistlebend.org/category/who-am-i-in-christ/) ## Tags - [identity](https://www.thistlebend.org/tag/identity/) - [purpose](https://www.thistlebend.org/tag/purpose/) - [christian](https://www.thistlebend.org/tag/christian/) ## Product categories - [Uncategorized](https://www.thistlebend.org/product-category/uncategorized/) - [Starter Kit](https://www.thistlebend.org/product-category/starter-kit/) - [Women's Bible Study](https://www.thistlebend.org/product-category/womens-bible-study/) - [In The Garden](https://www.thistlebend.org/product-category/in-the-garden/) - [Journal](https://www.thistlebend.org/product-category/journal/) - [Prayer](https://www.thistlebend.org/product-category/prayer/) - [Books](https://www.thistlebend.org/product-category/books/) - [Evangelism](https://www.thistlebend.org/product-category/evangelism/) - [Download Version](https://www.thistlebend.org/product-category/download-version/) - [Men and Women Studies](https://www.thistlebend.org/product-category/men-and-women-studies/)