Offering women a biblical solution for inner healing
by Aliene
Sabbath is God’s gift to every woman to retreat, regroup, and rebuild. Making the Sabbath a holy habit is the key to enjoying this blessing from God. By carving out times for input, we will have what we need for output.
Want more? Today’s podcast is an audio message taken from Brave Heart. This nine-week study on Joshua and his journey into the Promised Land was written by Aliene Thompson and is a part of the Nourish Bible Study Series.
Podcast: Play in new window
by Aliene
We’ve all been in relationships in which we look back at situations and see where a boundary could’ve been set. We can walk away feeling hurt. The problem is that the enemy tells us lies about how to set boundaries. He pulls us into a place of exhaustion, shame, guilt, and even avoidance.
This is not where God wants us to be. He has a purpose and plan for each of us. And to discover that plan, we need to know how to set boundaries with love.
Setting boundaries isn’t easy. Ephesians 6:12 tells us why setting boundaries is hard…
“For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.”
Satan’s lies keep us in the dark. He places condemning words on us to keep us from connecting to God’s Word. He knows that God’s Word is our guide that gives us wisdom and confidence about how to set boundaries—healthy ones that lead us into our purposes.
Satan magnifies rejection from our pasts so that all we remember is the pain instead of the future of our God-given purposes. However, when we take our pain to God, he will use it for good!
The voice of our Almighty God bids us near so that we can step out of the darkness and into his all-encompassing light. He wants to reveal his ways of setting boundaries with love.
When we set boundaries using God’s Word, it intercepts the condemning words of our pasts and frees us to love and live the way in which we were created.
1. You must be nice.
As little girls, we are often told to “be nice.” These words can plant seeds within our hearts that Satan begins to manipulate. Those seeds don’t produce a harvest of joy but of fear and shame—two of the enemy’s greatest tactics against our souls. In a previous blog, What Does the Bible Say about Setting Personal Boundaries, we discovered that God’s will is not that that we are nice, but instead that we make a difference and stand in his strength and share the truth.
2. If you say no, you are being selfish.
Have you ever thought that if something is asked of you, then you must do it? I know I have. Many women are people pleasers. We are nurturers by nature, and the enemy loves to exploit that God-given trait. So, he tells us we must say yes whenever we are asked to do something. As a result, we can run ragged and feel guilty. Jesus said, “For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light” (Matthew 11:30). He doesn’t want us to be burdened and burned out. Instead, his voice gives us renewed minds and nourished souls.
So, how did Jesus do it? Thinking about the life of Jesus, I realized he set boundaries… with love. He had limitations. He needed nourishment—both spiritual and physical. He rested, and he was aware that some people could not be trusted.
But he still loved.
1. Jesus established prayer as a priority. He understood the importance of having quiet time with the Father. He withdrew from crowds to pray, even when he was in the active ministry of teaching and healing.
“But Jesus often withdrew to the wilderness for prayer.”—Luke 5:16
2. Jesus taught to be confident in your “yeses” and “nos.” In Matthew 5, Jesus explained that when we sway in our yeses and nos, our characters can be questioned. Because our identity is in him, when we seek him for guidance, we can be confident in our yeses and nos.
“’Just say a simple, “Yes, I will,” or “No, I won’t.” Anything beyond this is from the evil one.’”—Matthew 5:37
3. Jesus expected others to state their needs. In Matthew 20, Jesus’s question to the blind men was relational. He wanted to be invited into their journey. Because of his perfect love, he doesn’t force us to choose him.
We can take this principle and apply it to our relationships. Others can ask for help and we don’t need to feel guilty for “not reading their minds.” Likewise, we can feel free to invite others into our lives and ask for support when we need it.
“Two blind men were sitting beside the road. When they heard that Jesus was coming that way, they began shouting, ‘Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!’… When Jesus heard them, he stopped and called, ‘What do you want me to do for you?’”—Matthew 20:30, 32
There are a number of other ways Jesus set boundaries, from confronting wrong behavior (Matthew 16:23, Matthew 21:23-27) to knowing the need for rest (Hebrews 4:9-11).
There are times in our lives when boundaries need to be set. If we have been hurt, we can often say things such as, “I will never open myself up again.” Although this is a boundary, we need to ask ourselves if this is a boundary that has been set due to fear or one that comes from the Holy Spirit.
The Bible says that the Holy Spirit “will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future” (John 16:13).
When we seek the Spirit’s guidance, he will reveal how to set boundaries and which ones should be set.
1. Prayerfully ask God to guide you in this boundary-setting journey. God’s Word reminds us that we are to examine our ways (Lamentations 3:40). Come to the feet of Jesus and honestly share what is on your heart. If you are struggling with exhaustion, or feel as though you are walking on eggshells in a relationship, you can “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you” (1 Peter 5:7).
2. State your core identity in Christ. As you begin to set boundaries, the enemy’s words will press in, causing you to question your core identity in Christ. As the Spirit begins revealing areas for which to set boundaries, it’s equally important to record and recite your core identity in Christ. Write down scriptures that remind you that he gives you strength when you are weak.
3. Keep connecting to the Word and record your boundaries. God is faithful. As we seek him through this journey, he will start revealing needed boundaries. But distractions often pop up, causing us to retract from our time in his Word. This is a time we must retreat into God’s presence. Write down how God is leading you to set boundaries. As you read more scripture, you’ll notice something—God will continue to connect his Word to your personal situations.
If you want to hear more of my teaching about how to set boundaries, click HERE for my podcast Setting Boundaries: Letting Go of Being Nice to Learn How to Say No.
Discover how nourishing your heart with God’s Word will transform the way you live HERE.
by Aliene
Has the Lord ignited a passion in you and called you to serve a particular group of people? Do you question the calling he’s placed on your heart or doubt your capacity?
Well, let today’s podcast guest inspire you and spur you on to run a mission for God. Tina Beauchamp is the Founder and Executive Director of an anti-human trafficking organization called “Trees of Righteousness.”
“TOR” as it is called, is a new non-profit dedicated to establishing a long-term aftercare program for adult, female survivors of human trafficking, 18 years of age and older. She considers her most valued treasure in life, besides God, to have worked with human trafficking survivors for the past 9+ years and counting. TOR has a capital campaign going on right now to purchase a house to make into a safe house for female trafficking victims. They need to raise 2+ million dollars to make this possible. If you feel compelled to get involved with TOR or make a donation to the campaign, you can visit their website at www.TORorg.com.
You can contact Tina directly by e-mailing her at tina@TORorg.com.
Follow Trees of Righteousness on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/127379394482872/posts/317927258761417/ https://www.facebook.com/127379394482872/posts/305408953346581/
Podcast: Play in new window
by Aliene
Are you disillusioned with Bible study? We hear that comment from lots of women! At Treasured Ministries, we believe changing your approach to Bible study can transform your life, which is why we created the Nourish Bible Study Method.
In today’s podcast, listen as two women share their stories of how the Nourish Bible Study Method transformed their time in God’s Word and impacted their lives in such a way that they decided to lead groups of women through this method.
Want to discover Nourish in the New Year with women just like you? The Nourish Notebook and 21-Day Challenge are the best tools to start you on this journey. On January 16th, inside the Treasured Tribe, our private online Facebook community, we are kicking off the 21-Day Challenge inside our Facebook page.
To discover more, click HERE.
Podcast: Play in new window
by Aliene
Are you looking to develop the life-changing habit of spending time with God through the study of His word? With all the responsibilities women carry, we can all relate to the frustration of taking care of others while neglecting to tend to our souls in God’s Way through daily personal time in His Word. At Treasured Ministries, we have created the 21-Day Challenge online class designed to make that habit happen!
In today’s podcast, we invite you to listen to Day One of the 21-Day Challenge to get a taste of what you can expect. The 21-Day Challenge is a FREE resource with the purchase of a Nourish Notebook. Now is the best time to take the challenge because starting January 16th, we are going to go through the 21-Day Challenge together inside the Treasured Tribe. Gain support from the community while you cultivate the habit to pause from the hustle and spend time with him daily for the win!
Click HERE to get your Nourish Notebook and join us for the 21-Day Challenge!
Podcast: Play in new window
by Aliene
Biblical leadership is a process of using the Word of God to renew your mind in order to lead well. It is about coming alongside those you are leading in a way that encourages spiritual growth by using Christ-centered kingdom principles. It is not about having the right answers but connecting others to Christ so that he can reveal plans and purposes.
Biblical virtues are more than mere characteristics. They are how we respond to our circumstances based on a mind-set that is established by Christ.
In essence, to live a life that is aligned with biblical virtues is to remember your core identity in Christ. It is to identify the truth about how God sees you, then agree with it in your heart.
The more you connect with the Word, the more those biblical virtues blossom in your life. Because the Word of God is a seed (Luke 8:11) that gives life when planted, it establishes roots in our hearts that heal our hurts and give us the mind of Christ when nourished.
Our old way of thinking is made new, and God begins to reveal his path and purpose for our lives.
“Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.”—Proverbs 4:23
Biblical leadership isn’t about perfecting your thoughts so that you lead well. It is about allowing Christ to shape your thought life to reflect his heart so that he can use you to lead well.
Easier said than done, am I right?
I want to reassure you, Treasured One, that biblical leadership is a process, not a destination. It’s just a matter of being in a place where you can allow God to transform your purpose—one bold, brave, beautiful step at a time.
Many women have the heart to serve and create connections that strengthen others, but it can be hard finding the balance between staying on task and being sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s guidance in a group.
I’ve discovered that the key to finding the balance and creating connections in a group has a framework that guides me through a process and gives room for me to hear the Holy Spirit’s voice as to when to pause and when to move.
Step 1. Pray for the group. For any group you are about to start, or are already leading, pray without ceasing! Pray that the Lord reveals the women he wants you to reach out to. Pray those women are eager to connect to his Word and join with others for spiritual nourishment.
Step 2. Pray about what Bible study resource to use. Pray for guidance as to what God wants you to use to nourish the group. As you discern which resource to use for your group, have faith that it will be speaking to the hearts of the women in your group.
Step 3. Point to Jesus. As leaders, we can get caught up in the lie that we are to know all the answers. But we don’t! In fact, we shouldn’t. Our role in biblical leadership is to point others to God’s Word so that they can deepen their relationship with Jesus. It’s the work of the Holy Spirit to reveal places that need the light of Jesus.
For a comprehensive guide to leading a small group, click HERE for the FREE Nourish Together Group Leader’s Guide!
Biblical leadership is grounded in the Word. As Jesus taught…
“’Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.’”—John 15:5
Compassionate—A biblical leader must have compassion for those who are hurting. Her tenderheartedness will be noticed by others and open up doors of communication and trust within the group.
“Finally, all of you should be of one mind. Sympathize with each other. Love each other as brothers and sisters. Be tenderhearted, and keep a humble attitude.”—1 Peter 3:8
Courageous—A biblical leader relies on God’s strength. She has faith that God has equipped her for a purpose, and that is where she rests.
“Now may the God of peace… may he equip you with all you need for doing his will. May he produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to him. All glory to him forever and ever! Amen.”—Hebrews 13:20a, 21
Trusting and Safe—A biblical leader cultivates trust and safety among those in the group. She also trusts in the purpose that God has laid on her heart to lead.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.”—Proverbs 3:5-6
Faithful—A biblical leader will be faced with doubt. She will wonder if leading is truly how God wants to use her in this season of life. When this happens, she is faithful to return to the Word. She bends her knees in prayer and asks God for strength in her time of need. She asks the Holy Spirit to push back any lies from the enemy that cause her to doubt. She recalls God’s faithfulness, and this strengthens her own.
“The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.”—1 Corinthians 10:13
Spirit-Led—A biblical leader is sensitive to the Spirit. She sets her mind on things of the Spirit and allows him to guide her, pausing when he says and moving forward as he directs.
“’But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you.”—John 14:26
Christ-Focused—A biblical leader uses her position to connect others to Christ. Her focus is helping others connect to Jesus’s words so that their lives are transformed—just as hers has been.
“And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.”—Colossians 2:6-7
Prepared—A biblical leader is prepared by planning, but also able to navigate when plans get changed. Part of being prepared is to have a framework that provides guidance, but a leader will also patiently walk with those she is leading and wait upon the Lord for direction.
“Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching.”—2 Timothy 4:2
Biblical leadership is a process, not a destination. You don’t have to walk alone in leadership. This is why we’ve created a guide to help you lead a Bible study group with confidence. Download our FREE Nourish Together Group Leader’s Guide HERE!
It will walk you through how to prepare and choose the best resources for your group while also providing ways to nourish your soul through the process! Leaders are whom God uses to nourish others. We want to help you do just that.
by Aliene
Sometimes when God gives me direction for a big decision, a day later one tiny doubt can creep in that creates a downward spiral of indecisiveness. Doubt is often not the result of a lack of faith but a sincere heart that wants to stay inside God’s will or fears making a mistake. But when we shift our focus, we can find a new filter to find with great clarity God’s will for our life.
Listen to today’s podcast and discover three steps to discern God’s direction so you can become the woman God created you to be.
Join us for the 21-Day Challenge in January and learn to develop a life-changing habit of spending time in God’s Word! Find more details HERE.
Podcast: Play in new window
by Aliene
If you have been blessed with authentic biblical friendship, you know it is a beautiful gift of connection and safety. True biblical friendship adds comfort, love, and truth to our lives. It nourishes the soil of our souls so that when God’s Word takes root, it grows.
Relationships either add to or deplete the soil of our lives. Biblical friendship is one that encourages growth and is filled with love and respect. Discerning connections in relationships can be hard, especially if we have been hurt in past friendships.
We may put up walls and find it difficult to confide in others. Or we unknowingly allow friendships that aren’t healthy for us to begin to develop, and when hidden motives emerge, they can cause deep soul hurts.
But there is great news, Treasured One! We can look to God’s Word to reveal to us what biblical friendship looks like. We know he wants us to grow into the women he created us to be. And he uses friendship and fellowship to nourish the seeds he plants in our hearts.
It is for this reason we must be wise about those we choose to walk hand in hand with because “bad company corrupts good character” (1 Corinthians 15:33). Unhealthy relationships can leave us feeling depleted, robing the nutrients from our soil.
Biblical friendship matters. You matter.
“’This is my commandment: Love each other in the same way I have loved you. There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you slaves, because a master doesn’t confide in his slaves. Now you are my friends, since I have told you everything the Father told me.’”—John 15:12-15
Biblical friendship is not based on power and authority. The authenticity of this beautiful gift allows you to confide in each other, knowing and trusting that the exchange of words is given to build up and encourage, never to tear down.
The Holy Spirit guides us into all truth, and this includes truth about biblical friendship. Let’s pay attention when he speaks to our hearts about those we divinely connect with in each season of our lives.
1) Biblical Friendship Is Rooted in Christ
“’I also tell you this: If two of you agree here on earth concerning anything you ask, my Father in heaven will do it for you. For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them.’”—Matthew 18:19-20
The bedrock of biblical friendship is the shared hope you have in Jesus. Jesus didn’t just teach those he considered friends—he also ate with, walked with, and prayed for them. There is power released when we take the time to gather in Jesus’s name.
2) Biblical Friendship Has a Heart to Encourage
“So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.”—1 Thessalonians 5:11
There seem to be countless seasons in our lives. Seasons of great joy and seasons of sorrow. Every season needs encouragement—it’s just a matter of who needs it and who will give it. You may be the encourager this year and the one who needs encouragement next year. The joy of a biblical friendship is that the river of encouragement flows both ways.
3) Biblical Friendship Has a Framework of Forgiveness
“’Do to others as you would like them to do to you.’”—Luke 6:31
We can enter friendships with expectations. But what would it look like if we were to connect within the framework of forgiveness instead? Biblical friendship mirrors this framework. This framework helps us set our expectations aside and simply treat others the way we want to be treated.
4) Biblical Friendship Gives Wise Counsel
“Without wise leadership, a nation falls; there is safety in having many advisers.”—Proverbs 11:14
When we are open to hearing the wise counsel of a friend—words that point us to biblical truth—safety surrounds us. That safety nourishes us and helps us become the women God created us to be. Biblical friendship goes hand in hand with wise counsel.
5) Biblical Friendship Is Not Selfish
“Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.”—Philippians 2:3-4
Biblical friendship looks out for the interests of others. We all likely have a friend who can drain us emotionally. It may be time to begin placing boundaries around this relationship and prayerfully ask God to place a tribe of women in your life who leave you feeling encouraged, hopeful, and alive!
When we look at the words and actions of Jesus as our guide for nourishing biblical friendships, we see how he loved everyone, yet did not trust everyone. There is a difference. Trust is something that goes beyond the surface and is earned. It takes time to develop.
We must take our emotions, thoughts, desires, and worries and lay them at the feet of Jesus, asking him to guide our steps. He has a plan for our friendships, and it is to help both involved take bold, brave steps of faith that lead to your respective purposes.
We can trust the Holy Spirit’s guidance when it comes to discerning biblical friendships. Jesus knows the intentions of everyone. Therefore, when we allow him to be the gatekeeper of our hearts, we can be decisive women who live confidently and love unconditionally.
“But Jesus didn’t trust them, because he knew all about people. No one needed to tell him about human nature, for he knew what was in each person’s heart.”—John 2:24-25
A biblical friendship is one of like-mindedness that is rooted in Christ.
A biblical friendship allows room for accountability and encouragement from both sides.
A true friend is one with whom you are comfortable being yourself. You can confide in them and completely trust that the words they say are intended to build you up. There is a shared heart of forgiveness and encouragement.
It has been said that if you can count the number of true friends you have on one hand, you are blessed. Are you in need of a tribe of women who can speak encouraging words into your life? Or perhaps there is a brave heart in need of hearing wise counsel from you.
Check out our Treasured Tribe HERE! Treasured Tribe is a private Facebook group where we gain strength by leaning into Jesus and pushing back the insecurities of our past—together.
We aren’t meant to do this faith journey alone. Let’s join together in the Word of God and live free!
