Becoming More

Currently I'm taking part in a study of Lysa TerKeurst's new book, "Becoming More than a Good Bible Study Girl" which has been amazing! The personal study time is powerful and the group discussion has been wonderful as well. At the same time, I'm leading an online study of the book as well at the Rise and Shine Women's Retreat site. We are so looking forward to what God has to say through Lysa this October, but in the meantime are already being blessed by His words through her book.

True to form this week's chapter has made me laugh, challenged me and even created some tears. It's the tears that God is really working through tonight. You see Lysa shared a story and the verse "Teach me your way O Lord and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name." Psalm 86:11

Perhaps you're wondering why those words make me cry...it's the memory associated with them. You see I recall Lysa sharing this verse and story on her blog nearly 2 years ago and days later her prayer became mine. As I walked through the pain of a miscarriage, I too cried out, "teach me YOUR way O Lord..."

You can read that story here, but tonight the tears aren't simply ones of pain; there is also joy. As I stop and reflect and read words I wrote nearly 2 years ago, I see GOD has answered my prayer. He is teaching me His ways. And I am so grateful and humbled and encouraged. I'm appreciative of where He's brought me, thankful for where He has me and excited about where He's taking me. As I continue asking Him to teach me His way, I know He will be faithful to show me and strengthen me and in the process I will become more!

Tonight I leave you with words from September of '08 -

"Teach Me Your Ways"
Lord, when I’m hurt
And just don’t understand –
Teach me Your ways.

When I’m sad
And just want to cry –
Teach me Your ways.

When I’m confused
And tempted to give up –
Teach me Your ways.

When I’m put down
And not sure I want to go on –
Teach me Your ways.

When I’m angry
And on the verge of losing control –
Teach me Your ways.

When I’m recognized
And receive praise that is Yours –
Teach me Your ways.

Lord, today and always
Thru the good and bad –
Teach me Your ways.

An Update and Invitation

Thanks to all of you who have been praying for my mom! It's been a month tomorrow since she had her hip replaced - the first three weeks were full of setbacks - illness, a fall and staph infection to name a few. Thursday she was back to the Dr. and had a good check-up - thank God for that! She doesn't even have to use her walker around the house anymore, but the IV antibiotic will continue for another 3 to 4 weeks. Please continue to pray for complete healing and for God to draw her closer as things go according to His plan and not hers.

On a completely different note, I'd love to invite you to the Rise and Shine Women's Retreat site! We are hosting an online conversation of Lysa TerKeurst's latest book, "Becoming More than a Good Bible Study Girl." Today we're looking at chapter 4, "Beyond Sunday Morning" and would love to hear your thoughts on moving past the church routine! Join us here...