Isaiah (part 1) - lesson 6

This lesson was a good overview of the book of Isaiah. It helped go over the overview of the book just a little. In all the Precepts studies I have done at the beginning there is some overview. It sometimes seems a little tedious but it helps me understand the book even more.

I appreciated the point about the high calling we have and the great responsibility. Needing to live intentionally. I love that God doesn't expect where He doesn't provide. I do not want to be the one living on the fringe of obedience. It does seem that much of our society and church goers are living right on that edge. I want to be the one to be determined in my heart to live my life worthy of the calling that I have been called. Let's be an example to those around us of what obedience looks like.

Isaiah (part 1) - lesson 5

Just a quick reminder that I will always be about a day behind on the lessons. I like to watch them on local TV (my local station is a day after the online lessons) so I can pause and rewind to jot something down. When I did that online, it seemed to cause problems, so I just went back to recording them off of TV and doing it that way.

What great encouragement to get ready for that day of reckoning. More than ever I want to make sure that I know my God and His word.

I also like how this study seems to tie in with the last one America at the Crossroads. We had just studied Psalm 2. Great to see how scripture is tied together.

I have noticed in the past few years how the influences of the the east are becoming more and more popular. Seeking wisdom and peace from someone other than God. It does seem to be a trend here in America.

I circled Your people and their land in orange so I could note what those verses are saying about those things. I also underlined against with black in verses 12-16 to note what the text points out there. Just a few things that the homework doesn't ask you to do, but noted while I was listening to the TV lesson.

Great encouragement to put our hope in God.

Isaiah (part 1) - lesson 4

Just a few quick notes on this lesson. I was SOOO challenged to be about God's business and spend my time learning His word. I love that this style of lessons takes a slow, verse by verse approach to learning God's word. All the more, desiring a life that gives adequate time in my life for knowing God and His ways.

Also convicted by the verse in Psalm 135:18 in reference to becoming like what we worship.
Those who make them will be like them (idols). Great reminder to be careful of what we fill our lives with. I need to spend more time in God's word and less time watching TV.

Isaiah (part 1) - lesson 3

It was wonderful to hunt for all the instructions that God gives in this first chapter of Isaiah. Here are some that I jotted down.

• hear the word of the Lord
• give ear to instructions
• don't bring worthless offerings
• God will not listen to worthless offerings
• make yourselves clean
• stop doing evil
• learn to do good
• seek justice
• defend the orphans
• consent and obey

Yes, I need to agree with God about sin in my own life (something our society brushes right over). I need to consent and obey. God expects us to live according to His word. That means I must know His word. I look forward to knowing this book of Isaiah.

Isaiah (part 1) - lesson 2

I have already been blessed by this lesson as I dive into the word and study Isaiah. I think the idea of consequences of our choices is almost a lost idea in our society today. It seems that no one upholds the idea of absolutes and it is easy to pass off sins are our choices. Great things to ponder about with our actions do have consequences. I was challenged to make sure that I instill this truth of God's word into my own family as I raise my children. I can only imagine that if I am sickened by the idea that people not wanting authority, than it must also grieve God's heart.

Isaiah (part 1) - lesson 1

It took me most of the morning to download and print the new Isaiah lessons. I still want to go back and print the maps for reference. After doing several of these free download lessons in conjunction with the TV (online) lessons, I wanted to say, it adds so much by actually doing both parts. Not only my own studies, but also listening to the lesson from Kay. For example, the historical information about the united kingdom Israel, and then the divided northern and southern kingdoms are more understandable after listening to the lesson.

I was convicted of not listening to God. His word is my access to His heart and I have had too many days that I didn't even open my Bible. God expects me to know Him and understand Him and I NEED to study His word to know His heart. I too, have put so many things ahead of knowing God.

I am looking forward to this new (much longer than last time ~ but worth it) study in the book of Isaiah.

America at the Crossroads- lesson 10

What a fantastic way to end this short study...focusing and pondering and seeking prayer for choosing our next president. There really wasn't much to do on your own study time for this lesson, but great verses to look up and focus on what God desires for a leader.

I did copy the list that was given on the video lesson of Comparing the Presidential Candidates.

1. In respect to their character and values and integrity.
2. Look at their voting record.
3. Analyze the promises they make. ~ Can they keep them?
4. What is their experience that can help them handle unprecedented events?
5. How important is power to this person ~ Can they handle pride?
6. Which one will come closer to doing what is right no matter what the cost?
7. How do they handle their opponents?
8. Do not let media determine who you will vote for.
9. Seek the one who has proven integrity and holds up those principles.
10. We are going to answer to God for the one we vote for.

I hope that you have been challenged, as I have, to live in a way that pleases God. To live according to His principles. To walk in a manor worthy of the calling. As men and women of virtue and ones who hunger and thirst for righteousness.

I did order those extra books and already (in one day) finished one. The spiritual heritage that we are so grateful to be part of runs deep in our country's history. I will never look at my country the same again. I am even more challenged to get on my knees and seeks God face in forgiveness on behalf of our nation. To examine my heart for idols and live in a way that pleases our Father. I just downloaded the next one and I am ready to start studying Isaiah.

America at the Crossroads- lesson 9

This lesson was again, a great reminder to live in such a way that glorifies God. I appreciated the verses about refining of the silver and removing the impurities and the process of what God does. Not that it is an easy or a pleasant process to have God "melt" us, but knowing that God desires what is pure and right.

I myself, hadn't noticed the progression of the difference of prophets, priests, princes and people. Something I picked up from the TV lesson and not the personal study myself. It was good to go back through and note the different ways of these people and the unrighteous ways to be cautious of.

I do see a theme that has been throughout this study. Living in a way that glorifies God. Many references to morals, integrity, character, righteousness, godliness, values...not only areas of my own life to examine, but also as I consider who to vote for. The definition of integrity was something that brought me right back to my Daniel study that I did this past year. Talk about a man with integrity. Hopefully this will spur us on to live with integrity (and to vote with it too).

Integrity: possession of firm principles, the quality of possessing and steadfastly adhering to high moral standards.

America at the Crossroads- lesson 8

This lesson was very sobering. The reality of the decline of our country since the 1960's. I had not considered the points that have been brought out about the changes our country has "developed" since the near recent past.

The idea of the media having such a persuasion on the public is concerning. I recently saw a blog post that was pointing to the different US Weekly covers that favor one candidate and slam the other. (HERE) The idea that repeating the lies often enough convinces the public. I guess that shows how we lack discernment and wisdom.

I am quick to admit that I am the first to "stick my head in the sand" and not want to be made to look at the ugly truth. It seems that the Holy Spirit is bringing the truth to the light so I can be an effective vessel of God. I have been challenged to not just turn into my comfort zone, but turn outward to be used be God.

America at the Crossroads- lesson 7

Today's lesson really reminded me how "in control" God is of everything. The passage in Jeremiah was a such a blessing to read and "mark up". (I marked ref. to: God ~triangle, Israel ~ Jewish star, calamity ~ red cloud, evil ~ gray squiggly, word ~ book, kingdom ~ crown...just some ideas). In verse 7 and 8 was such an eye opener as to God causing difficult times or blessings. I don't want to live in fear of the reprimand that we deserve. Instead I am challenged to live in a righteous way. What a great encouragement that each of us, individually, are challenged to turn back from our evil ways and reform our ways and deeds.

I want to be part of this new culture. A holy one. Living in the fear of God. Let's step it up!!! Let's live in the way that glorifies God in ALL we do. In how we act, live, raise our children, dress, spend our money, live our values. I desire to have a deeper hunger and thirst for righteousness. Again, I am so grateful that we can trust in our sovereign God as we go through these difficult times. Let's pray that more join in learning the truths about God and His word.

Oh, BTW, I did order that set of books...I was ordering new books for my kids from the "kids" line and thought I would save on shipping later...

America at the Crossroads- lesson 6

How can I be more encouraged and challenged with each new lesson? Not sure, but I think I am. Let me start off by saying I am tempted buy the book offer for the 3 books. I bet it would be fascinating and challenging too.

We are so fortunate to be part of a country that is so rich in it's spiritual heritage and history. When ever I have studied presidents in the past I am almost in tears of their character. In awe of their respect and morals (so different than the career of politics today). The quote from Winthrop was amazing. Referring to self governing. It is such a thing of the past (look at most families and/or any citizens, for that matter, to see that living a life of self governing is lost).

Just reflecting on the recent "natural" disaster of hurricane Ike shows the calamity and disaster that God uses to get our attention. Or what about the soaring gas prices or the drop on Wall Street? They are all situations that should point us to God and shake us up to return to Him.

But we are still a sinful nation, hungry for power and greedy and embarrassingly selfish. I am praying to be part of that arising Christian culture, who takes God's word seriously. I am challenged again to speak and to act and to live according to God's word. To walk in the manor worthy of the calling.

America at the Crossroads- lesson 5

Just a quick note on not getting my postings up earlier on Mondays. I tutor and the day is eaten up with all the other things that need to get done around here. Sorry and thanks for being patient with me.

When I was marking my text in Ezekiel 22 I was thinking about our nation and the idea of being stained with blood from the abortions that have taken place here. Interesting that Kay also mentioned that idea of being part of a sinful nation.

There are times that I don't always get my answers down before I watch the lesson on TV. Chuck was just asking if there are times I don't know the answer. And yes, there are times I don't quiet get what she is leading us to. So don't worry if you don't jot down an answer. On this lesson I didn't really answer 1 d ~ the question about judgment. I do love how she ties it all together. So thanks for sticking to it.

OK, back to the lesson. I appreciated the observation of how selfish we are as a nation. So self centered. Concerned that we are taken care of emotionally, physically, financially. We turn to the government to provide our needs and that just encourages the focus of our self centered American culture. A great reminder that God is in control and that He is the provider of all we need.

I was also sickened about the fact that we are a country that has contaminated a world with our sins. We have influenced the world with our "western ways" of sins (dress, pornography, sensuality...). Instead of being a light we are polluting the world with our sinful ways.

Great encouragement to restore us to the image of Christ Jesus. To turn away from our selfish ways and instead turn to God's ways. We need to confess our ugly wrongful sin to our holy God.

America at the Crossroads- lesson 4

"If a country sins..." This being the title of the 4 lesson really got me thinking. After the encouragement to pray for forgiveness for our country on Thursdays, I have been thinking about how much we have sinned against God. Ez. 14:13 has really grieved me about being part of an unfaithful country. Aside from all the basic sins that pop to the top of the list, I have been really thinking about those idols of the heart. The ones that aren't as obvious to everyone. Selfishness, insecurity, pride, judgmental spirit, greed. Sad to say, the list can go on. I think it is fair to say our country has sinned, and in a huge way.

The 4 judgments were also sobering. In fact, you don't have to look hard to see evidence of those judgments. And what a wonderful challenge to live righteously. Not only as an example to those around us, but to glorify God in heaven. I was even more grateful that the Holy Spirit has prompted a hunger and a thirst for righteousness in my own life. Drawing me closer to God and giving me a desire to live by what God says is right. I am praying that I live in a way that shows the truth of God to others that see me.

I can personally attest to calamity in my life that has a purpose and an order to bring deliverance in my life. To turn me toward God and to draw me to Him in righteousness. Again, I am so glad that you are joining me as we strive to walk in a manor worthy of the calling.

America at the Crossroads- lesson 3

I think it helped a little to have a day as a buffer for me to be able to watch the lesson on the local TV station. Sorry if it is a little late for anyone. It has been busy around here.

What a sobering idea of being part of a country that has turned its back on God. Thinking back to times that were different and how many things have changed for America. Even though it is sobering, there is still hope. I love the key phrases according to your ways and then you will know. When I was doing my study I jotted down that then you will know was a purpose phrase. Knowing that even though the discipline is necessary (judgment according to your ways), it was for the best. God, our heavenly father, does know what is best. It is easier to understand that as a parent of my own kiddos. I can even imagine using the phrase, "you brought it upon yourself". How grateful I am that with God's judgment there is deliverance. And also there is the purpose of the glory of God in His judgment and understanding there is importance and consequences of our ways.

As always, very challenging. This being Thursday, I have been praying for our country and seeking forgiveness for our failures and our unfaithfulness. Thanks again for joining me. I was blessed again today by my studies and so thankful that I am learning to go deeper into the Word.

America at the Crossroads- lesson 2

What a challenging lesson. WOW. It was great to focus on the verses in Ezekiel about a country that sins against God by committing unfaithfulness. What sobering thoughts to understand the seriousness about sinning against God as a nation. And when you start to comprehend the changes of how our country has a void in honoring and fearing God. The quotes from the founding fathers of our nation were inspiring. Such a healthy respect and fear of God. All we have to do is study the scriptures to understand that we need to take God at His word.

I was challenged (rather than discouraged) to live righteous, to encourage others to live righteous, to cry out to God on behalf of our nation and beseech Him. I have been convicted to pray for forgiveness for our country for our unfaithfulness toward God (adding it to our daily prayer list ~should have been there all along).

Eager to hear how you were challenged and encouraged.

America at the Crossroads- lesson 1

I wanted to get a post up on the first lesson for anyone to have an opportunity to share any insights that you may want to share. Or even ask a question to each other if you had one. I have been able to do the lesson but I haven't watched the lesson on TV or online yet. I was, again, in awe of how important it is to have a reverence for our almighty God. A respect of His power. A healthy fear of Him.

The lesson also gave me a desire to evaluate what "idols" might be in my life that I need to surrender and repent from. Not living in a society that has carved idol images, sometimes it is a little harder to think of things as idols (maybe easier for those missionaries that are more alert of idol worship).

One last quick thing, I have come to realize how important it is to ask the Holy Spirit to be my resident teacher as I study the scriptures. There are still many times that I am not sure of what the answer may be and sometimes it takes a little longer for me to figure it out. Let me encourage you as your studies begin each day to ask the Spirit to guide and lead as He sees fit.

I hope these next 10 lessons (just think this will be a quick but deep study) are a blessing to us and I pray that they encourage us to walk in a manor worthy of the calling.

How to watch lessons online

Just wanted to give some tips for watching the Precepts lessons on line. It is hard to send you there with links because you have to be logged in to get to the right site.

• Once you have logged in to Precepts, choose the BROADCASTS tab on the top.
• Then in the middle of the screen you will see either "I heard it on" or "I watched it on"
• Just below the brown button that is TV/LIGHTSOURCE.COM is a blue link to "watch at lightsource.com
  
• That take you right to the Precepts lessons

Remember, you have to be logged in to Precepts in order to get there. Hope that helps. I know that navigating around the Precepts site is a little confusing.

precepts 101

Just wanted to pass on some pictures of how I do my Precepts study. You can do it any way that you want but here are some pictures of my notebook.
This is a shot of my notebook from my Ephesians study. I printed everything and then punched it and keep it in a binder. This notebook also keeps the study from my Life in the Spirit study that I also did this summer.I write my answers on notebook paper from the questions from the lessons. There is a bit of copy work (meaning listing things from verses). I have found it a great way to really remember the verses.
Here is a shot of the observation worksheets. I like marking them instead of in my Bible. My Bible is really old and the pages can't take all that writing. Plus, when you are doing such a long in depth study, there is a lot of marking that I don't necessarily want to do in the Bible that I use all the time.

Here is an up close picture of the text markings. Most of these markings were suggestions from the study guide.
I like to use the twistable crayola colored pencils. I keep them in a little tote with my notebook and Bible.

So, I know this is kind of a simple post. I just wanted to show you what my Precepts study stuff looks like. If I had you over for coffee and to let the kids play, I would get this stuff out and show you in person. Just imagine we are sipping some java and having a chat. =)

America at the Crossroads

OK, lets see if we can create some sort of a group here of fellow members of the body of Christ who want to take part in the new Precepts study. The new study starts tomorrow (Monday) and I am looking forward to diving in on this new in depth inductive study. What a great way to use the technology of today...

Let this be a place that you can share how you have been encouraged or challenged in the Word of God. I hope this a blessing to you and me. Can't wait to connect on a deeper level as we study the scriptures together from all over the country.

From what I can tell the new study starts tomorrow. If you have created a password and user name on Precepts, than you can find out where to watch or listen to the lesson. If there isn't a place to find it locally, you can watch it online. I gave all the details on the post on the other blog (HERE).

Make sure and print out the study guide and the observation worksheets. If you are new to Precepts, the idea is to mark the text as you notice key words and phrases. The study guide gives you words to look out for and ideas of how to mark them. I will try and put up some pictures of how my "notebook" looks. You can do it any way that you feel comfortable with.

Thanks again for joining me in digging into the scriptures together.