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REST STOP

We all say “Our family is so busy! ” What can we do to change this? I’ve noticed I have to get tired enough of the chaos. If we are constantly on our phones, packing our schedules with more activities, and not stopping, then something’s gonna give. It might be our health. It might be our relationships. This constant stimulation is just plain contrary to rest.

Real rest must start in my spiritual life. For me I need a true turning from the world to stop and hear God.  I’ve got to stop repeating “I need to rest”, by actually DOING IT. 

Real Rest is active!  Confession to God energizes, reconciliation with God inspires, and wisdom from God awakens your soul!  Get in the Word and pray. Real rest is extremely active in its focus and purpose. .

Real Rest is quiet. You are fasting from noise. Here’s the glory of this-once you move through that realization and sit with God, peace will slowly steal over you. SO MANY of us are afraid of the silence because we know  we must face God or turn away from Him.  Ask GOD for the ability to be still. One of my favorite books is Practicing the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence...a monk who cleaned pots and pans, yet worshiped GOD fully in every moment. I want to live like that.

Real Rest won’t be applauded by others. By faith, I trust the LORD to “do” the most important tasks that are needful and important. You choose “who you disappoint”. I give time to an invisible God , perform secret service in my primary jobs with my husband and children, and take quiet care of myself-spiritually, physically, and emotionally.

God wants to help you -allow Him to cover you with His quiet peace today!

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“Basic” Isaiah

IMG_2874      Isaiah?  Why study this book? If you are like me, you tend to study the books in the Bible you already know. In the last year, I made a list of books in the Bible that I have never studied. Isaiah is on top of my list! Challenging? Yes. Do-able? Absolutely. For those of us interested, we are taking this book a “bite at a time”. For example, our Facebook Forum is only reading (or studying) chapters 1-6 by the end of August. Interested? Order the book through Navpress or just jump into the FB  group!  

     Why call this “Basic” Isaiah? Many of us are busy gals who don’t have lots of time but want to stay grounded in the Word. This book is so powerful that learning a little feels like a lot!  

     As I  look through a new bible study, I like to learn the background. The background of a book in the Bible  adds color, depth, & perspective. As I process what I read, I begin to categorize verses and synthesize the chapters. What is the basic theme of a book? Jot down anything that helps you remember. For example, “Rebellion & Restoration” is my personal title of the book to remind me of its theme.    

      The following is compiled from our study (Navpress Isaiah), Ryrie Study Bible, Nelson Study Bible, and my own personal study.

*The name Isaiah means “The LORD is salvation”.

*Written 700 years before Christ.

*This book is written to Judah and Jerusalem (specifically) but Isaiah does occasionally address this to “Israel”). Yet, Israel had already been defeated by the Assyrians.

*Some believe Isaiah only wrote the first part of this book while another “Isaiah” wrote 40-66. But, most believe the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls validate Isaiah as one man who served Israel as prophet and author of this book.

*Isaiah prophesied for 60 years through 5 different kings. These kings are : Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, Hezekiah, & Mannaseh.

*During this time, Israel lived in a sad cycle…Rebellion (or forgetting God), Judgment (or discipline), Repentance, and Restoration.

*The Navpress Isaiah study divides the book into 2 parts- Judgment and Comfort. Ryrie divides the book into 2 sections-Denunciation and Consolation. Nelson Study Bible divides the book into 3 catagories-judgment on idolatry/immorality, comfort for the exiles, and exhorting those who had returned from captivity.

*Many refer to this book in the Old Testament as the clearest reflection the Promised Messiah. In fact, Isaiah is quoted in the new Testament more than any other book!   Tristie Fisher 

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EASY WAYS TO LOVE YOUR SPOUSE!

Want a few bite-sized ideas to TAKE YOUR MARRIAGE to the next level?

1. This week, write down 3 things you appreciate about your spouse. Now, tell them! Your won’t believe how much it builds up your better half!  I am absolutely convinced we can all learn to be encouragers in our marriages.  It’s just like learning a language. Do this every week until it becomes a habit. (You could start with a dramatic, “You are the wind in my sails” or it can be the more casual, “Nobody makes bacon like you!” )

2. Train yourself to say, “THANK YOU” 3 times a day for any show of affection. For some, an act of kindness can be fancy flowers, walking the dog, or the way that spouse makes you feel cared for. For others, it’s the ultimate act of mercy -the diaper change. (#stagesoflife👍🏼) 

3. Build gratitude, cultivate kindness, & enjoy your most important person!

Photo by the oh-so-gifted Ashley Monogue!