I AM Study - Lesson 10

Lisa, the faithful, is once again leading us in the study of God's faithfulness to the Isrealites in the book of Exodus. Come join us!

Key Verse - Moses speaking to God
"Why should the Egyptians speak, saying, 'With evil intent He brought them out to kill them in the mountains and to destroy them from the face of the earth? Turn from your burning anger and change Your mind about doing harm to Your people." Exodus 32:12

1. Have you ever experienced trials that were best dealt with "in the family" for either your reputation's sake or God's? You may still choose to leave them there, but you are welcome to share if you are comfortable.

I was pregnant out of wedlock. I asked to speak with the church board to explain my plan for adoption and to allow them time to prepare for this situation in their church body. I knew that speaking the truth was the best option. This was a smaller church body about 300-500 members and everyone knew everyone (some of you pastors wives out there probably know what I mean).

When Roger and I choose to raise our child (now 13) I could not believe the uproar! I was expecting this when they originally heard about my pregnancy, but it was unexpected to hear such disagreement about me marrying Roger. Our pastor would not even perform the marriage. We were in shock that this body of believers would not want a family to be together! Maybe they didn't think it was going to work out - who knows.

We stayed for awhile hoping to show them how God can work through our sin and not turn His face, but it seems many people in this church body did not want to see that. We ended up leaving the church because we knew and know that God is so much bigger than that.

2. Have you ever found yourself in a bizarre circumstance and later were able to walk someone through the same/similar situation? Did you recognize the hand of God in it?

I am sure that I have, I just can't think of one at the moment. God is always making divine appointments - big and small. I am always praying that I don't miss the chance to play a part in it.

3. I was in my late twenties before I ever let myself believe God was for me instead of waiting to smack me upside the head everytime I made a mistake. Do you truly believe God is on your side?

I learned early in my walk that God was on my side - it is what brought me to faith in the first place. I have struggles with some of God's other characteristics, but this one I know in my heart is true.

4. If God has ever had you in the Holy Spirit Chokehold (and who hasn't He?), how have you reacted to God's chastisement? Were you bitter? Brokenhearted? Grateful?

God is very patient with me. It takes me a lot of time to know if it is His voice or not. I want to follow, but I also don't want to fail. I tend not to take very big risks for God. I am getting better at knowing when it is God leading or just me wanting to go a certain path. I will often be silent with God (childish I know). Then I come back and thank Him for bringing me back and picking me up. Maybe that is why I keep trying new things that I never thought I would do. Everyday I learn something new.

5. Write a brief prayer of Thanksgiving for God's longsuffering.

Lord Jesus, thank you for who you are! The creator of the universe, savior of the world and my best friend. You never turn away and You always point me in the right direction - even if I choose not to follow. You are always forgiving to my sins. Thank you for always being there fo me. Amen

Blessings to all of you today!

Cyndee