Treasured Ministries

Offering women a biblical solution for inner healing

God's Word

How Does God Heal a Broken Heart?

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The Bible says that the Lord “heals the brokenhearted and bandages their wounds” (Psalm 147:3).  Treasured One, do you believe these words today? 

There is an enemy of your soul who wants you to doubt these faithful words of God. But today, his lies are going to be exposed and you are going to walk away with the understanding that power of God heals a broken heart. 

How Our Hearts Break

There are many reasons why our hearts become broken. Behind every reason are words. Words matter. They carry a tremendous amount of power. While we’d like to think “words can never hurt me,” or don’t carry any weight, yet this often is not the case. In fact, hurtful words roll off the tongue of someone and hit the drumbeat of our souls. 

That drumbeat starts a pattern of negative thoughts. When we’ve experienced wounds from words, they can continue to haunt us, causing us to feel…

  • Insecure
  • Worried 
  • Fearful

When left untreated, the unseen scars repeat the hurtful words over in your mind like a broken record. The “You ares” you’ve heard spoken over you become the “I ams” for which your soul beats. 

But there is good news, Treasured One. God’s words are more powerful than your past, or the whispering lies of the enemy in the present. Connecting to God’s Word is what begins to heal our broken hearts. 

Good News—God Heals a Broken Heart!

To start healing from a broken heart, fill your mind with God’s Word. Understand this is a process—a process of identifying the lies, agreeing with God’s Word, and renewing your mind on His truth every day—moment by moment. 

Because God heals a broken heart through His words, here are 7 promises from God for you to meditate on today…

  1. “’I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.’”—John 14:27 (emphasis mine)
  2. “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 (emphasis mine)
  3. “’And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart.’”—Ezekiel 36:26 (emphasis mine)
  4. “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.”—Psalm 34:18 (emphasis mine)
  5. “We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair. We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed.”—2 Corinthians 4:8-9 (emphasis mine)
  6. “But forget all that—it is nothing compared to what I am going to do.”—Isaiah 43:18 (emphasis mine)
  7. “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.”—Romans 8:28 (emphasis mine)

Here’s How God Heals a Broken Heart

  1. God Heals a Broken Heart as We Are Aware of Our Thought Life

The more time you start spending in God’s Word, you will see glimpses of his glory inside this broken world. As you read passages—such as Ephesians 1:5 that says you are predestined for adoption through Christ, or Romans 6:6 that says the old self was crucified and is no longer a slave to sin—stop and identify the lies you’ve been told that say otherwise. 

The thoughts that go against God’s Word are begging for your attention. This is why 2 Corinthians 10:5 says to destroy proud obstacles that keep you from knowing God. These negative thought patterns keep your heart broken and from seeing glimpses of God’s glory. 

But when we surrender our thought to God, healing begins to take place in our souls. 

  1. God Heals a Broken Heart When We Embrace Our Identity

Our identity in Christ is the key to your offensive weapon inside the battle of your heart. Your identity speaks words into every thought you have. This is why you must renew your mind and affirm your identity every day. 

As you may know, this is a key element of the Nourish Bible Study Method. We write down and affirm who God says we are, and we declare who He is. This shifts our thoughts to “forget about the past,” as the Lord said to Isaiah (Isaiah 43:18), because it is nothing compared to what he is about to do in your life. 

Aligning your identity with Jesus is like an eternal thread that connects you to heaven. The Holy Spirit’s voice will become louder in your life, leading you into healing and purpose. 

  1. God Heals a Broken Heart When We Agree with His Word

As God affirms our identities, the enemy will attempt an attack. At that moment we have a choice. Will we agree with…

  • The words from our past?
  • The words from the enemy?
  • The Word of God who gave you a new heart?

Whichever words you agree with will be the ones that rules in your thought life.

Treasured One, it is time to take hold of the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God, and speak truth over your life. 

Beware—The Enemy Seeks to Attack the Heart That God Has Healed

This is important to understand: The enemy seeks to attack what has been healed. When you are tempted to fall back into negative thought patterns or to declare self-deprecating words, go back to God’s Word!

There is a battle for your heart. As much as there is a God who loves you, there is also an enemy who plays a tune, knowing the drumbeat of words in your past, waiting for you to start walking in tempo with it. 

But when you acknowledge the pain, identify the lies, and surrender it all to Jesus, God’s words will begin to restore and heal your broken heart. 

Know that this journey of faith isn’t easy, but it is blessed. Healing always starts with surrendering. Do you want to connect to the One who is faithful to heal?

Then start by surrounding yourself with his life-giving Word. Get the Nourishing Your Heart E-book today. It is a free resource from Treasured Ministries that walks you through each step of the Nourish Bible Study Method and shows you how to rely on the Holy Spirit for healing. 

7 Virtues of Biblical Leadership

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What Is Biblical Leadership?

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. 

What Does Biblical Virtue Mean?

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.

How to Create Connections through Biblical Leadership

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!

7 Virtues of Biblical Leadership

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

Remember…

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. 

How to Find Nourishment through God’s Word

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Nourishment, by definition, is “the food or other substances necessary for growth, health, and good condition.” Nourishment through God’s Word feeds your soul. The richness of the Word not only provides the necessary ingredients you need to survive and thrive but also contains healing properties. 

What do I mean when I say, “God’s Word contains healing properties”?

The kind of nourishment that is released through the Word of God takes our brokenness and gives us wholeness, it takes our weaknesses and empowers us, and it takes our hurts and heals our hearts. 

When Jesus was led into the desert by the Holy Spirit, and was tempted by the enemy, how did he overcome? How did he find nourishment? Through God’s Word. 

“During that time the devil came and said to him, ‘If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become loaves of bread.’ But Jesus told him, ‘No! The Scriptures say, “People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.”’”—Matthew 4:3-4

The words of the Father sustained him and helped him overcome. The words of the Father are where Jesus found nourishment in times of great need. 

And get this… when he chose to connect with those words—to believe, live by, and find nourishment in them—it set him on the path for his purpose. The Bible records that the next steps he took led him into ministry. While in ministry, his purpose became clear…

  • Point others to the kingdom of God
  • Help them see their kingdom purposes
  • Reveal the truth that each of us matter 

…and culminated at the cross. 

Discover Nourishment through God’s Word

Have you ever considered what it takes for you to survive? Air to breathe, food and water to sustain and grow, safety and shelter to protect—and for what reason? So that we can become who we were created to be; so that we can fulfill our purposes.  

The Breath 

“’For the Spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life.’”—Job 33:4 (emphasis added)

The Bread

“’I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Anyone who eats this bread will live forever; and this bread, which I will offer so the world may live, is my flesh.’”—John 6:51 (emphasis added)

The Water

‘”But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life.’”—John 4:14 (emphasis added)

The Safety 

“I love you, Lord; you are my strength. The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety.”—Psalm 18:1-2 (emphasis added)

The Shelter

“The Lord is a shelter for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. Those who know your name trust in you, for you, O Lord, do not abandon those who search for you.”—Psalm 9:9-10 (emphasis added)

When circumstances press in, pulling us into the lies of depression or rejection, it can almost feel like the life is being sucked out of us. But nourishment through God’s Word is intended to give, create, and sustain life. 

Jesus knows what it feels like to have a pressed soul. He cried out to the Father with heaviness on his heart (Mark 14:35-36). God invites you to do the same. Because you matter. Your purpose matters. 

And here is the exhilarating part… Jesus wants us to thrive in our purposes! His words are meant to go above and beyond, to transform us and give us each an abundant life. 

“’… My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.’”—John 10:10[b]

Nourishment through God’s Word Is about Connection

Oftentimes, we read verses, such as the ones above, and they wash over us. We feel the renewal they are meant to provide. But if they don’t nourish us, they can fall to the ground and form a puddle around our feet. 

Your Savior wants to use those words to nourish your soul—immersing you, covering you, and connecting you to him. Because when your soul is nourished, you will flourish. 

Nourishment through God’s Word is about connecting to it in a way that transforms you. A seed grows, thrives, and fulfills its purpose when connected with nutrient-rich soil, and God’s Word is that good soil for our souls. 

When we connect to the Word, we naturally grow into who we were created to be. 

Having a Plan to Find Nourishment through God’s Word 

I don’t know about you, but when I have a plan, it sets me on a path that helps guide my journey. Many of us don’t know where to start. 

Have you asked, “How do I find nourishment through God’s Word?”

Perhaps you’ve read verses time and time again, but you aren’t sure how to pause and let them nourish your soul.

When we have a framework that helps us connect to the Word, God opens our eyes and unlocks timeless biblical truths we never knew before. 

Truths such as…

  • His nurturing attributes
  • Verses you can anchor your soul to
  • Messages you can share with others
  • His promises and purposes waiting to be released into your life 

When You Find Nourishment through God’s Word, You Step into Your Purpose

Treasured One, the Holy Spirit wants to breathe into your life today, filling you up with the perfect love of God so that you fulfill your purpose. 

God created you for a purpose. The cross serves as a reminder of God’s love and purpose for you—which is the greatest gift he has given you—inviting you to share it with others.  

Connect to the nourishing words of Jesus today, and exhale knowing he has a plan and purpose uniquely designed for you. He is waiting for you to discover it as you cultivate a deeper connection with him. 

The words you surround yourself with nourish the soil in which you will grow. Let’s decide today that we will nourish our souls, and soil, with the words of God.

  • Living words
  • Eternal words
  • Healing words
  • Life-giving words
  • Glory-defined words

Isn’t it time to find nourishment through God’s Word in a way that sets you free to discover your purpose? 

Click HERE to claim your FREE Nourishing Your Heart E-Book

What Is the Best Way to Study the Bible for Yourself?

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The best way to study the Bible for yourself is to follow these 3 steps:

1. Select a passage of Scripture to study.

2. Open up your quiet time with an invitational prayer.

3. Apply a Bible study method that helps you see more of God’s character and his plan for your life. 

What Can You Expect When You Find a Better Way to Study the Bible for Yourself?

Studying the Bible can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. God never intended for his Word to be something we steer clear of. On the contrary, it is intended to be inviting, transforming, and powerful. 

He tells us his Word is alive and active. It can discern the thoughts and attitudes of the heart (Hebrews 4:12). The Bible also tells us that when we take delight in him and his Word—when we truly allow his words to wash over our souls and change us—then he gives us the desires of our hearts (Psalm 27:4).

Now, don’t get me wrong… This is not to say that God grants wishes. He is far from a genie. But what he does say is that he heals our hearts and begins to mold them in such a way that they actually reflect more of his character and desires. 

We start to want the same things God wants for us!

As a result, we begin to experience lives of freedom. We start to see the world differently. Our circumstances no longer control our emotions and behaviors. When we study the Bible, and immerse ourselves in its healing words, it actually changes our perspective to be more like God’s, which allows us to start to see our purpose.  

Who doesn’t want more contentment, freedom, and purpose in their life?

The Key to Discovering Contentment, Freedom, and Purpose When You Study the Bible for Yourself

The key to discovering these blessings within the words of our loving Savior, Father, and Counselor lies in our willingness to… 

  • Pause on a passage
  • Put aside the preconceived thoughts of our past experiences
  • Enter into our time with the Lord with childlike faith

Step 1. Selecting a Passage of Scripture | How to Study the Bible for Yourself

Many of us spend so much time wondering what passage of Scripture the Lord wants us to study that we end up not studying anything at all. Isn’t that what the enemy of our souls desires—to keep us out of the freeing words of Christ so that he can continue to cause chaos?

Not anymore. 

Instead, ask yourself these questions…

Has there been a passage that God has been bringing to my mind repeatedly?

Is there a hurt I am really struggling with?

Is there a Bible story or character that I have wanted to study and simply haven’t yet?

These questions can guide you into a passage of Scripture to study. The Lord can begin to unpack and reveal anchors of truth to you through his Word. 

You might be thinking, “I’m new to studying the Bible, so how do I even find what I’m looking for?” The internet is a great resource for locating passages of Scripture to study. 

For example, have you ever wondered how the study of Joseph and his coat of many colors applies to your life? There are great resources out there that help you dive deep into God’s timeless truth and apply it to whatever season you are in today. 

And if you still can’t come up with a passage of Scripture to study, go ahead and open one of the Gospels, such as Mark, and ask God to reveal the power of the cross as you read the words of your Savior. 

Step 2. Opening Up Your Quiet Time in Prayer | How to Pray before Your Bible Study Time

There is no denying that prayer is important. God wants to hear from you! He also wants to speak to you. Quieting your mind and asking God to fill it with his perfect love invites him into the process when you study the Bible for yourself. 

The Creator of the universe wants to connect with you. Sure, he wants you to know his Word, but for the purpose of being able to recognize his voice (John 10:27), not to simply gain knowledge for knowledge’s sake. 

Try opening up your quiet time with a prayer of invitation, such as the following:

“Lord, your Word sustains me. It gives me life and breath. It breaks away past hurts and heals my broken heart. I choose to receive your healing hand today. Lord, create in me a heart that seeks you above all else. I invite you into this quiet time right now. Reveal to me an anchor of truth I can rest upon today. Let me hold fast to it. In Jesus’s name, amen.”

Step 3. Applying a Bible Study Method | How to Understand and Apply a Passage of Scripture to Yourself

This is when the time with the Lord really becomes alive and active in your life! 

Let me ask you this… Have you ever read a passage of Scripture numerous times, and then one day you read it and it seems to leap off the page at you? It’s as if you are experiencing its impact for the first time! 

Friend, that is God speaking to you! He wants to make that IMPACT on your life. But don’t get ahead of him, and don’t assume you know what it is. Instead, unpack the impact. 

What do I mean by that?

Break down the passage of Scripture using the Nourish Bible Study Method and start to look for… 

  • Images of God to trust
  • Messages to share
  • Promises to believe
  • Actions to take
  • Core authentic identity in Christ to adopt
  • Transgressions to confess

As you can see, the IMPACT God wants to make on your life is intended to move you from where you are into what you are created for. 

Applying a method, such as the Nourish Bible Study Method, to a single passage of Scripture is like opening a treasure chest of precious gems that was hidden under a layer of dust. 

Are you ready to start exploring all that God has for you? Are you ready to start nourishing your soul with truth as you study the Bible for yourself? Then get a Bible study method to help you do just that. 

Download our FREE Nourishing Your Heart e-book today! 

Get a complete guide that will help you study the Bible for yourself using the Nourish Bible Study Method.

  • Use it with ANY passage of Scripture in the Bible.
  • Discover the key to connecting to God’s Word that transforms the way you live. 

You might think there’s a hidden treasure for you in God’s Word. No doubt there is. But never forget that God’s pleasure is to dust you off so that you can be his light to the world (Matthew 5:15)—because you are his treasured one. 

Get Nourishing Your Heart

God’s Love Letter

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Before you were born . . . I loved you (Ephesians 1:4). Loving you brought me great joy (Ephesians 1:5). In fact, I loved you so much that I gave my son so you could be completely free to love me (Ephesians 1:6-8).

Sin cannot and will never separate us. Nothing you have done or will ever do could ever take away my love from you . . . and so you and I can have a relationship with no barriers (Ephesians 1:7; 3:12). No pretending.

You cannot lose me. Not even death can separate us (Ephesians 8:38).

I am a good Father—the perfect father (Ephesians 1:5 & 8). Do not look for an earthly father as an example of me—there is only one God. I am he (Isaiah 45:5).  You can trust my love for you because not only am I loving . . . I AM LOVE (1 John 4:16). Not just any love—but AGAPE love. Perfect (1 John 4:18). Unconditional.

You Are Part of a Family…

You belong (Ephesians 1:3). You are a part of a family (Ephesians 1:5). You are never alone (Hebrews 13:5). Not today. Not ever (Ephesians 1:14). You have complete security in me. I am always here if you need to talk to me. I hope you will get to know me better and understand more every day about the depths of my love for you (Ephesians 1:16-17).

 I am also the master planner (Isaiah 25:1; Ephesians 1:11). You don’t have to worry about your future. And sometimes I am a mysterious planner (Ephesians 1:9) My ways are so much higher than yours (Isaiah 55:8-9).  It is in the mystery of not knowing the full blueprint that you have to use your faith and continue seeking me—which is the best place for you to be (Ephesians 1:16).

 Just trust and follow me. I am full of wisdom (Ephesians 1:8). You can be completely confident in that still small voice that is leading you (1 Kings 19:11-13; John 10:4). Don’t worry about tomorrow I always work out everything according to my plan (Ephesians 1:11). And the plans I have for you are to prosper you and not to harm you.

They are to give you a hope for the future (Jeremiah 29:11).

When this broken world gets hard and bruises your soul, remember I have prepared a place for you in eternity–you have an inheritance beyond your comprehension (Ephesians 1:11). So when life gets hard—look up, find hope and live differently (Ephesians 1:18) 

The Holy Spirit Will Bring You Peace…

The peace the Holy Spirit will bring you amid any storm is like a holy thread connecting you to heaven (Ephesians 1:13).  Let it remind you that I am with you and will never leave you.

I am here as your Father to help you through whatever you face. In the midst of life’s pressures, pause and enjoy the presence of my Holy Spirit and taste of what is yet to come.

 Most of all, I want you to understand that the same power that raised Jesus from the dead, the same power that caused the Red Sea to split, is the power that lives inside you (Ephesians 1:19). So plug into this power simply by pulling away from the chaos and into my presence.

You are my masterpiece and I have a good work I planned for you to do before you were born (Ephesians 2:10). Becoming the woman you were created to be is one of the greatest gifts you can give this world.

 Don’t use your faith just to survive. Use it to surrender and you will find my power is all you need.

 So remember the greatness that is within you.

You are loved and accepted.

You are part of a family. 

So stand tall and rise up. See your very weakness as a doorway to depending on me so you can do great things for my glory.

You are a treasure.

Blog written by Aliene Thompson. Aliene Thompson is the founder of Treasured Ministries and the Author of the Nourish Bible Study Series. © 2019 Treasured Ministries.

Got Sword?

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You are God’s child. As his daughter, you can walk in the assurance that He can help you today with whatever battle you face—no matter what it is.

But like an unexpected wave, life’s battles can take us by surprise and we might find ourselves fighting for air instead of forging ahead in our God given-purpose. If that is you today – do not quit! Reach for the armor of God. Putting on the armor is proactive and requires action on your part.

Facing a battle?

You are not alone.

Find inspiration through Brooke McGee’s story to BE PROACTIVE instead of REACTIVE. Gear up for battle with God’s armor to gain godly girl power. Find confidence in the middle of your storm.

Brooke’s Story

“I was 28, married, great job, loved the Lord, had just gotten back from another overseas mission trip, and was at the end of the first trimester of my first and long-awaited pregnancy! Life was great, and it was easy to say “blessed be the name of the Lord.” I meant it with all my heart, but it was easy because my life was easy.  

 A week after seeing my baby move around on the ultrasound, I was completely and utterly devastated when my baby’s heart stopped beating, and I would go in the hospital as a pregnant, hopeful, future mommy and leave empty-handed and heart-broken.  This was my first brutal taste of suffering in a sinful world.  

All of a sudden, I was forced to face what I had been taught, studied, and believed.  Was God really sovereign? How would this be worked into good?

At the same time as this deep sorrow, I also was experiencing the abundant grace of the Lord and the peace that passes all understanding that I had read about and sung about all my life.  I had experienced a valley, and there was no going back to who I was before.  I felt that I was experiencing such an intense growth spurt as well as a new level of attacks from the enemy all at the same time.

When we are walking through suffering with the Light of the World, Satan hates the glory that the Lord receives as we cry blessed be the name of the Lord and show Christ to the world.  The lies of the enemy are crafty.

He would want me to believe this was my fault.

He would want me to withdraw in shame and sorrow without hope and cover my light.

He wouldn’t want me to share with the world the reason for the hope that I have and why I can in my pain lift my hands to my Lord and rejoice.

There was a battle going on and I was a new warrior.

I sought the wisdom of a well-respected friend and asked her to mentor me through this process, and the Lord used this relationship to change my life.  She encouraged me to meditate on scripture and to memorize it.  I had grown up in church and had memorized verses here and there (and of course knew the key gospel verses), but memorizing chunks of scripture at a time was a daunting challenge. She encouraged me to pick of a book of the Bible and just go for it one verse at a time.  

 I, of course, was flooded with excuses of limited time and poor memory, but she said to me,”if I can do it, you can do it”.  Well, I humbly gave it a go.  It took a little bit to figure out what version worked best for my memory and to find a technique that fit me. I was slow, but it got easier and easier.  

 Then, the most amazing thing happened!!!!  As I carried around the sword in my mind and on my heart, it was suddenly relevant all the time!  It was relevant in conversations with friends, coworkers, and it was my weapon in the times when I was alone and the enemy would whisper and seek to discourage.  

About six months later, I found myself back in the hospital toward the end of the first trimester of my second pregnancy.  What appeared to be another devastating miscarriage ended up being a sub chorionic hemorrhage that would resolve, and eventually, I would give birth to my little boy. However, while laying in the hospital waiting for the ultrasound, I thought I had lost him.  I remember so clearly praying that the Lord would give me strength and grace to get through this again.  

This time was different though- I had my sword!

I had the first few chapters of James already in my head and was able to meditate on it while laying there feeling anxious and afraid.  GAME CHANGER! WARRIOR!

For me this was the beginning of a marathon of different trials, but the Lord was teaching me to fuel up with His word and run hard. He is teaching me how to prepare for battle!

My next 7 years would include more miscarriages, an overseas move, the sudden death of my mother, and many other ups and downs.  

No matter the season, whether mountain or valley, studying the Word and memorizing the word will always produce fruit that glorifies God and points others to the Light of the World.

Run hard and carry your sword!  If I can do it, you can do it!”

“Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil….. take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” (Ephesians 6:13 & 17, emphasis mine)

Take the Sword with You

God’s Word is our offensive piece of armor in the battle against the enemy of our soul. Jesus drew from the scriptures to defeat Satan’s manipulative tactics of temptation so he could stand firm (Matthew 4:1-11). You too can walk in victory, as you “take the sword with you” through memory and speak it out loud like Jesus. Memorization allows us to “take the sword with us” by having direct access to life-changing truths anytime and anywhere.

Got sword? Godly girl power flows from a woman geared up with God’s Word.

In this week’s podcast Brooke shares an effective strategy to memorize God’s Word in 7 simple steps. Listen to the podcast, and discover how  to “take your sword” with you to be strong in any battle you face. We will tackle every piece of armor and discuss what it means to “put on” the armor of God in our Facebook Live on Wednesday…. See you there!

Nourish Scripture: Ephesians 6:10-20

Want more? Learn how to apply the Nourish Bible Study Method and develop a deeper connection with God’s Word by downloading Nourishing Your Heart.

Blog written by Aliene Thompson. Aliene Thompson is the founder of Treasured Ministries and the Author of the Nourish Bible Study Series. © 2019 Treasured Ministries.

She Was Powerful . . .Because She Forgave

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The wound in her soul was hidden to her eyes but not to her heart. The hurt continued to haunt her life as it seeped out of her soul and stepped into her thought life. No matter how hard she tried to forget what happened, her mind automatically reached into her soul and retrieved the repressed hurt, replaying it again and again. The wound owned her, and it was growing bigger even though her offender was miles away.

 She wanted to be free. She felt powerless.

 “Just forgive,” she heard her pastor say. “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one each other just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32).

But what IS forgiveness? Instead of this advice bringing freedom to her soul, it often brought frustration. She was tired of being a doormat others used to wipe their feet. But she had to do something. Her buried hurt emotions were building to the point of breaking her.

This struggle is my story. Is it yours too? Who doesn’t struggle with forgiving someone who hurt her heart?

Understanding Forgiveness

Opposed to our human nature and often misunderstood, forgiveness is a hard concept to grasp.

  • Forgiveness is not saying what happened was okay.
  • Forgiveness does not mean forgetting what happened.
  • Forgiveness does not mean trusting the person . . . but it does mean trusting God to handle the situation.

Forgiveness is letting go of your right to retaliate by releasing your offender to God.

If you retaliate, you are allowing your offender to control your life. If you repress your emotions or deny them, you’ll swallow that anger and plant the seed of bitterness in your soul. Revenge, repression, retaliation . . . they all put you in a prison. But releasing the offense to God allows the GREAT I AM to control your life. And with that release comes freedom.

Being real about your hurt and bringing that pain to God opens the door for healing. Showing love to your enemies dissolves your offender’s power to hurt you because it confirms God is in control of your life.

When you release others, you open your hands to receive from God, the only One who can redeem and restore.

Power Rests in Love

God wants you to be powerful, not passive. But godly girl power does not rest in revenge—it rests in love. Love is a powerful force and puts God in control instead of your offender. Forgiveness carves a path for the mighty river of God’s love and power to flow to you—and through you to others!

God has a great purpose for your life. He wants you to spend your energy your purpose—not dwelling on buried hurts or revenge. Focusing on God’s purpose for your journey is an essential, effective way to live. You are not responsible for your offender’s actions, but you are responsible for how you respond. God saw what happened to you. He is not asking you to say what happened was okay—but he does want you to turn it over to him.

For you to be okay, you must treat the wound his way.

When you retaliate, your offender is in control. When you respond in love and forgiveness, God is in control. Forgiveness carves a path for the mighty river of his love and power to flow.

Allowing Yourself to Forgive

Who will rule your heart? Your offender . . . or God?

God never gives us a command without promising the power to walk that truth. On your own, this love is impossible, but with God all things are possible.  Don’t let your offender steal your power one more day. Wounds are never easy to deal with, – just for today take the first step…bring God your willing heart.

And as I write these words, know that I am on this journey with you. Today, I am taking a brave step to forgive – right along side you. Onward!

She told God she was ready to forgive. She didn’t want to, but that was okay. God wrapped his arms around her and told her if she was willing, he would help her. It was a process and didn’t happen overnight. But when she let go of the painful relationship and released that person to God, a door opened in her soul. Redemption came in and healed the raw wound in her heart. God redeemed all that had been lost in ways beyond anything she could have ever dreamed.

She was free. She was fearless. She was powerful . . . because she forgave!

Nourish Scripture: Ephesians 4:17-32

Want more? Download Nourishing Your Heart to discover a way of connecting with God’s Word that transforms the way you live!

Blog written by Aliene Thompson. Aliene Thompson is the founder of Treasured Ministries and the Author of the Nourish Bible Study Series. © 2019 Treasured Ministries.

Exhale

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True confidence flows from knowing that the greatest gift you can bring to the world is becoming the woman God created you to be. Part of this journey is confidently embracing your God-given spiritual gifts and understanding that he gave you these gifts to empower you to love others and share truth with them. That is true humility.

Hiding Is Not Humility

Step out of the shadows, brave heart. Come away from the sidelines. Who told you that hiding is humility? God has given you a spiritual gift to share. You have something to offer. That gift was given TO you but it was not FOR you.

  • Hiding it is not humility.
  • Hiding keeps you from using your gifts to help others.

Your purpose is a pathway to sharing God’s love, and our spiritual gifts are the vehicle to take us along that path. The Holy Spirit breathes ability into us and as we exhale, the life of Christ is shared and fills the world with his love. (Ephesians 4:4-10)

Exhale and Share the Life of Christ with Others

Sadly, I believe we are often taught to hold our breath in the name of humility, but nothing could be further from the truth. False humility forgets about God’s power and paralyzes us with fear.

Sharing your spiritual gift with others breathes the life of Christ to them. Your voice is valuable and can make a difference in the lives of others. (Ephesians 4:12)

The people in your life you are called to love are worth it. Let your love for them motivate you to move beyond your fear.

Sometimes I argue with God and hide.  . . . Who am I to serve you? What about past failures? I am not good enough. I am inadequate. I am afraid of failing!

And then other times, I stop trying so hard to BE and just surrender and rest in the power of the GREAT I AM. I am not called to create light—I am called to reflect the light of Christ by listening to and being led by the Holy Spirit. But when my heart is tuned inward in false humility, my heart is not facing the right direction to reflect his light. Focusing on your inadequacies brings attention to you instead of Jesus.

Use Your Gifts to Touch Others

Fan the flame of your spiritual gifts by facing the other way. Turn it outward by taking steps this week to use your gifts to touch others.

Find freedom to become all God created and redeemed you to be by letting go of fear to fan into flame your spiritual gifts for his glory.

I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you when I laid my hands on you. For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline” (2 Timothy 1:6–7 NLT, emphasis mine).

God’s provision, including your spiritual gifts, flows to you and through you so you can glorify him and love others. God built you to accomplish his purpose for your life (Deuteronomy 7:6; Ephesians 2:10). He imparted spiritual gifts to you the moment you accepted Christ (1 Corinthians 12:4–11 and Romans 12:3–8).

The way you are wired—your personality and passions, your character and natural abilities, and your spiritual gifts—is part of God’s provision for your God-given vision . . . not something to hide.

Different spiritual gifts flowing from one Holy Spirit provide just what you need for what God has called you to do. The diversity in our gifts creates the need for us to link arms with one another to share his good news. And as we stand together, our gifts fit perfectly (Ephesians 4:16). And as each one of us does our special work, like instruments playing together in God’s orchestra, we will make beautiful music that sings of the glory of God. But if we hide our instruments, the music simply isn’t complete.

You matter. God designed you to make a difference.

Embrace your spiritual gifts and allow them to grow. Step into the stream of godly girl power by using your spiritual gifts to touch others and fulfill your God-given purpose.

Nourish Scripture: Ephesians 4:7-16

Want more? Download Nourishing Your Heart to discover how to connect with God’s Word in a way that transforms your life. 

Blog written by Aliene Thompson. Aliene Thompson is the founder of Treasured Ministries and the Author of the Nourish Bible Study Series. © 2019 Treasured Ministries.