2014 is off and running. Many people have made resolutions to improve their lives in the coming year. Amid the resolutions to lose weight, become more organized, and devote more time to family, it seems that many include a spiritual goal. Whether you want to grow spiritually, maintain a daily devotional life, or simply read the entire Bible this year, a plan of attack is helpful to help you achieve your goals. Here are some tips that I have found helpful in reading the entire Bible in one year.
Select your plan carefully. The Bible is a wonderful book, filled with encouraging stories of faith. At the same time, it can be daunting and overwhelming to the uninitiated. Where do I start? By the time the reader gets to Leviticus, he may find himself wondering what happened to the story line! Two of the most popular approaches are canonical (reading straight through) and chronological (in historical order). I've tried both and had difficult times. I found it really tough to plow through the Old Testament prophecy day after day. The good news is that there is a plethora of reading plans available on the Internet; one of my favorite sites to find a large number of them is youversion.com. At this time, I am using the plan found at www.Bible-Reading.com; each day of the week is devoted to a different type of Biblical literature (e.g. Sundays are for NT letters, Mondays are for Law, Tuesdays are devoted to History). I find the diversity of reading a different literary genre each day quite refreshing. I began reading with this method in June and am just over halfway through the plan.
Decide on a translation. There is no right or wrong choice. I enjoy reading in a translation that I am not terribly familiar with to give the words new meaning. If you have never read the entire Bible through, I recommend using the New International Version (NIV), New Living Translation (NLT), or the English Standard Version (ESV).
Set aside time. It is important to your success to make a daily appointment for Scripture reading just as you would any other appointment. Our society is driven by our calendars; if we block the time out, we are more likely to follow through.
Don't be afraid of technology! Modern conveniences make my daily Bible reading much easier to fit into my life. I include a daily reminder to read on my electronic to-do list. The youversion Bible app is downloaded on my phone and iPad, allowing me easy access to whatever version I'm reading from without the need for a wi-fi connection. Since I'm not using one of the reading plans included in the Bible app, I use an app like Evernote or Notes to make a list of my daily readings for the week.
Know from the beginning that life happens. Schedules will become hectic and there will be times that you miss your daily reading. Relax! You have not failed at reading the entire Scripture in a year because of a single day. Many new reading plans build in catch-up days to allow for these inevitable obstacles. In my current reading plan, I know that Wednesdays and Thursdays tend to have shorter readings; when I get behind, I can use those days to do some catch up reading.
Keep the Focus the main focus. We are not reading simply to mark something off our bucket list. We read Scripture in an effort to know the Author of the Book more personally and allow Him to make a difference in our life. Keep your focus on the transformation occurring in your life because of the time you are devoting to reading the Word of God.
I'd love to hear from you. What plan are you using this year to read through the Word? Can you add tips that you have found helpful? Share in the comment section of this post and let's support each other throughout the year….then we can celebrate the greatness of God in our lives together at the end.
Showing posts with label Bible study. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bible study. Show all posts
Wednesday, January 8, 2014
Monday, February 4, 2013
When It Seems Like No One Understands....
When was the last time you looked at your life and felt that no one truly understood your situation? There was a desperate desire to share your feelings with someone, but no one came to mind. No one can fix the problem. You really don't want to burden anyone with your problems since it's certain that they are also facing problems of their own.
Yesterday I began a new series with my Sunday school class on the topic of prayer. I've never felt as though prayer was a great strength in my life. I always feel awkward when I pray -- searching for the right words to express my feelings. Honestly, at times I have felt guilty sharing my problems with God since He has so many things to deal with.....and my problems are so minute and insignificant in the grand scheme of things. I found great encouragement through my own study of 1 Samuel chapter 1 and wanted to share some of it with you.
Hannah was a woman who was greatly loved by her husband. Still, there was something missing from her life because she was unable to bear children. Her husband's other wife was a baby-making machine and constantly reminded Hannah of the difference between them. Notice the pain that the New International Version records in this passage:
Since no one at home seems to be understanding her pain, Hannah turns to the church and goes to pray. While she is pouring out her pain to God in prayer, Eli (the High Priest) observes her and thinks she's drunk! What makes Eli think this? He sees her mouth moving, but there is no sound coming out.
As I studied Hannah's prayer, I was shocked at how REAL she was with God. She didn't hold back anything from Him at all. Take a look at this prayer found in verse 11:
Poor Hannah just cannot catch a break. She's been harassed by her rival wife. Her husband knows that her childlessness is a sensitive subject and still comes across like a total lug. When she seeks refuge in the church, the minister accuses her of inappropriate behavior and tells her to get out (see v. 14). How wonderful, though, that despite the fact that no other human seemed to understand her pain, Hannah had a Heavenly Father who saw her anguish, listened to her hurt over all of the betrayal, and came to her rescue with healing and love! Scripture doesn't tell us exactly what happened in Hannah's spirit after that time of prayer in the temple, but we know that SOMETHING wonderful happened. Notice the end of verse 18: "Then she went her way and ate something, and her face was no longer downcast." Although Hannah's situation hadn't changed, she had an assurance that her God had heard her cry for mercy and was able to act on her behalf.
The next morning, the family returns home. Hannah has to face the very ones who have caused her so much suffering again. She returns to the bed that was a constant reminder of her own failure. We don't know how much time passes between their return home at the beginning of verse 19 and the end of the verse that shares with us that "the LORD remembered Hannah." Even if it was that same night that Hannah conceived, it would have taken several weeks....and possibly several months......before Hannah would have known deep within her that God had heard and answered her prayer!
I rejoice with Hannah at the birth of Samuel, whose name means "I asked the LORD for him." Her sorrow has totally been turned into joy. All of the weeping is now replaced with the laughter that a child brings. Hannah knew that her God had heard....and acted! The painful memories of feeling forgotten were now just a thing of the past.
Take heart from the story of Hannah. Despite your circumstances, you are not forgotten. Your Heavenly Father cares about what concerns you and welcomes your expressions of frustration, pain, and hurt. When we finally open these hurts to His healing touch do we allow Him to bring beauty into our lives again. Take comfort in the truth that He hears......He cares.....and He understands whatever is upsetting you today.
Yesterday I began a new series with my Sunday school class on the topic of prayer. I've never felt as though prayer was a great strength in my life. I always feel awkward when I pray -- searching for the right words to express my feelings. Honestly, at times I have felt guilty sharing my problems with God since He has so many things to deal with.....and my problems are so minute and insignificant in the grand scheme of things. I found great encouragement through my own study of 1 Samuel chapter 1 and wanted to share some of it with you.
Hannah was a woman who was greatly loved by her husband. Still, there was something missing from her life because she was unable to bear children. Her husband's other wife was a baby-making machine and constantly reminded Hannah of the difference between them. Notice the pain that the New International Version records in this passage:
And because the Lord had closed her womb, her rival kept provoking her in order to irritate her. This went on year after year. Whenever Hannah went up to the house of the Lord, her rival provoked her till she wept and would not eat. (1 Samuel 1:6-7, NIV)As though things are not bad enough because of her rival wife, Hannah's husband can't understand why she is so upset. He even adds insult to injury when he asks Hannah "Don't I mean more to you than ten sons?" (v. 8) I'm sure Hannah found herself somewhere between a tremendous eye roll and full blast waterworks in that moment!
Since no one at home seems to be understanding her pain, Hannah turns to the church and goes to pray. While she is pouring out her pain to God in prayer, Eli (the High Priest) observes her and thinks she's drunk! What makes Eli think this? He sees her mouth moving, but there is no sound coming out.
As I studied Hannah's prayer, I was shocked at how REAL she was with God. She didn't hold back anything from Him at all. Take a look at this prayer found in verse 11:
O LORD Almighty, if you will only look upon your servant's misery and remember me [in other words, don't forget about my pain any longer!], and not forget your servant but give her a son....(1 Samuel 1:11, NIV. Emphasis added)I can just hear Hannah's anger mixed with her absolute despair. In that moment, Hannah seems to have thought that even God had forgotten her. She's not even sure that God will notice her suffering. Don't miss the fourth word of the verse: "if"! I don't know about you, but I've certainly been in that place. "God, everyone else around me has let me down and I'm not even really sure that YOU are listening or even care.....but just in case You do.....please see my pain and move on my behalf." I have shared Hannah's desperation for a move of God in my life more often than I care to remember.
Poor Hannah just cannot catch a break. She's been harassed by her rival wife. Her husband knows that her childlessness is a sensitive subject and still comes across like a total lug. When she seeks refuge in the church, the minister accuses her of inappropriate behavior and tells her to get out (see v. 14). How wonderful, though, that despite the fact that no other human seemed to understand her pain, Hannah had a Heavenly Father who saw her anguish, listened to her hurt over all of the betrayal, and came to her rescue with healing and love! Scripture doesn't tell us exactly what happened in Hannah's spirit after that time of prayer in the temple, but we know that SOMETHING wonderful happened. Notice the end of verse 18: "Then she went her way and ate something, and her face was no longer downcast." Although Hannah's situation hadn't changed, she had an assurance that her God had heard her cry for mercy and was able to act on her behalf.
The next morning, the family returns home. Hannah has to face the very ones who have caused her so much suffering again. She returns to the bed that was a constant reminder of her own failure. We don't know how much time passes between their return home at the beginning of verse 19 and the end of the verse that shares with us that "the LORD remembered Hannah." Even if it was that same night that Hannah conceived, it would have taken several weeks....and possibly several months......before Hannah would have known deep within her that God had heard and answered her prayer!
I rejoice with Hannah at the birth of Samuel, whose name means "I asked the LORD for him." Her sorrow has totally been turned into joy. All of the weeping is now replaced with the laughter that a child brings. Hannah knew that her God had heard....and acted! The painful memories of feeling forgotten were now just a thing of the past.
Take heart from the story of Hannah. Despite your circumstances, you are not forgotten. Your Heavenly Father cares about what concerns you and welcomes your expressions of frustration, pain, and hurt. When we finally open these hurts to His healing touch do we allow Him to bring beauty into our lives again. Take comfort in the truth that He hears......He cares.....and He understands whatever is upsetting you today.
Friday, February 1, 2013
Lessons from Nehemiah
A few weeks ago while in my local Lifeway Christian store to pick up some music, I found myself drawn to Kelly Minter's Bible study on the book of Nehemiah. I took a look and walked away, convincing myself that I simply didn't have time right now to start a new Bible study. My daily Bible reading was just going to have to suffice during this tremendously busy season. I proceeded to move to the check-out.
When I got to the front of the store, I was a little frustrated because of the exceptionally long line. The cashiers were at their wit's end; it was then that I learned that the computers were running slowly. Since it was clear this was not going to be a quick exit, I started to browse the shelves at the front of the store. What did I see? Minter's Nehemiah study. I picked it up to make sure the video segments could be downloaded before purchasing. I added the study to my items, but put it back while waiting. The entire study just looked too feminine for me at the moment.
While we were waiting in line, a sales associate came to the front to help. When she passed me, she asked if I had taken a look at any of the Bible studies and then proceeded to recommend Nehemiah as one of her favorites. It was then that I sensed the Spirit ask me how long it was going to take me to follow His promptings. I finally got the message......
Today, I'm approaching the halfway point of the study and confess that I believe it was ordained by God for me to dive into this Old Testament book at this time in my life. The reminder of Nehemiah's faithfulness to the desire that God had birthed within him (rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem) has become more meaningful to me than ever before. See, I always knew that Nehemiah built the walls with God's help, but I have never really considered the enormous amount of conflict that came against him while trying to obey God. Not only were his enemies trying to intimidate him, Nehemiah also dealt with negativity from the very ones that should have been his biggest allies -- other Jews!
As Nehemiah prayed throughout the entire process, God moved supernaturally and aided Nehemiah in accomplishing a great task that brought glory to God and restored Jerusalem's glory. But God had other plans for Nehemiah....the task didn't end just because the walls were rebuilt. The city was massive, but it was empty. God had Nehemiah get involved in bringing the people of God back to the city. How easy it would have been for Nehemiah to declare his job done when the walls were finished. However, he understood that the walls were quite meaningless if he lost sight of the people they were meant to protect. In my own ministry efforts, may I never lose sight of the people that God pursues as I do the work of ministry -- building the wall one section at a time.
I'll be completely honest. Nehemiah is not a book that I had ever really taken the time to explore before. When I started the study, I expected to learn some history I didn't know. What I have found instead is a life-changing book with the hand of God clearly at work in the lives of people on every page. Nehemiah is filled with treasures; every once in a while, you just have to dig below the surface a bit to find the jewel!
What have been your experiences with the book of Nehemiah? I'd love to hear insights that God has revealed to you. Please take a moment and share in the comment section below.
When I got to the front of the store, I was a little frustrated because of the exceptionally long line. The cashiers were at their wit's end; it was then that I learned that the computers were running slowly. Since it was clear this was not going to be a quick exit, I started to browse the shelves at the front of the store. What did I see? Minter's Nehemiah study. I picked it up to make sure the video segments could be downloaded before purchasing. I added the study to my items, but put it back while waiting. The entire study just looked too feminine for me at the moment.
While we were waiting in line, a sales associate came to the front to help. When she passed me, she asked if I had taken a look at any of the Bible studies and then proceeded to recommend Nehemiah as one of her favorites. It was then that I sensed the Spirit ask me how long it was going to take me to follow His promptings. I finally got the message......
Today, I'm approaching the halfway point of the study and confess that I believe it was ordained by God for me to dive into this Old Testament book at this time in my life. The reminder of Nehemiah's faithfulness to the desire that God had birthed within him (rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem) has become more meaningful to me than ever before. See, I always knew that Nehemiah built the walls with God's help, but I have never really considered the enormous amount of conflict that came against him while trying to obey God. Not only were his enemies trying to intimidate him, Nehemiah also dealt with negativity from the very ones that should have been his biggest allies -- other Jews!
As Nehemiah prayed throughout the entire process, God moved supernaturally and aided Nehemiah in accomplishing a great task that brought glory to God and restored Jerusalem's glory. But God had other plans for Nehemiah....the task didn't end just because the walls were rebuilt. The city was massive, but it was empty. God had Nehemiah get involved in bringing the people of God back to the city. How easy it would have been for Nehemiah to declare his job done when the walls were finished. However, he understood that the walls were quite meaningless if he lost sight of the people they were meant to protect. In my own ministry efforts, may I never lose sight of the people that God pursues as I do the work of ministry -- building the wall one section at a time.
I'll be completely honest. Nehemiah is not a book that I had ever really taken the time to explore before. When I started the study, I expected to learn some history I didn't know. What I have found instead is a life-changing book with the hand of God clearly at work in the lives of people on every page. Nehemiah is filled with treasures; every once in a while, you just have to dig below the surface a bit to find the jewel!
What have been your experiences with the book of Nehemiah? I'd love to hear insights that God has revealed to you. Please take a moment and share in the comment section below.
Monday, July 4, 2011
Youversion.com
Having been raised in a Christian home, it has been a continuous goal of mine to read the Bible in its entirety. I must admit - sadly - that this has never been a strength for me. I know the Bible stories and have memorized many passages of Scripture, but I have never been able to stick with a program to cover the entire Bible in a given period of time. Normally, I would push through about 3 months and then LIFE would happen and I would give up.
Many of my friends were participating in B90x, a Bible reading plan that takes its name from the fitness phenomenon P90x. B90x is a 90 day intense plan that results in reading the entire Bible. 3 short months! Now THAT I can handle. Of course, as things would happen it, the inspiration to start the program came in the middle of the busiest time of my life: MUSIC CAMP! I tried to talk myself into delaying the start, but I knew I needed to get going, so I began to look for the plan online and stumbled across a great website in the process that has helped me be successful for 20 of the 90 days so far. Since I'm hooked on this website, I wanted to share it with you.
The website is http://www.youversion.com/. Youversion is similar to many of the other Bible text websites, but also has some interesting differences I enjoy. Firstly, youversion has you create a login identity so you can keep track of what you have read and store notes online (both public and private). Secondly, many reading plans are housed on the site - including the B90x - and the program keeps track of your progress. When you find yourself falling behind - and it happens to all of us if we're honest - there is a neat "catch me up" button that will reconfigure your reading plan so you can still meet your goal. Lastly, since the reading plans on youversion are web-based, you can access your Bible reading from any computer with Internet access. Throw in the free app for smart phones and you have total convenience. There's no excuse to not stay on target with my assigned reading each day.
The website won me over. The Bible reading is an eye-opener and a challenge. I must admit that it is demanding; the B90x plan requires that you read 12 pages of Scripture each day. That generally equals 14-16 chapters. Fortunately, I was given advice early on to not think of this as in-depth study. Rather, I am simply reading the Word with an eye on the big picture. Thankfully, the Spirit of God is speaking truth deep into my heart even at this fast-paced, overview approach.
Is youversion for everyone? Definitely not. But if you have ever found yourself challenged with finding time to read the Bible like I have, this may be just the solution you have been looking for. Whenever I have a spare moment throughout the day, I simply log in by computer or iPhone and do a little reading. Before I know it, I've completed the day's reading and find my mind returning to it throughout the day. Whether you opt to join me on the B90x journey, to use another Bible reading plan on the site, or to simply use the website and apps for your personal reading, I think that youversion.com is a valuable resource to a tech-savy generation.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Worth All the Effort
This summer, the church that I work for has decided to conduct multi-generational Bible studies for our mid-week time together. Initially, it doesn't sound like too big of a deal. When you begin to look at the students though, the difficulty of trying to speak into the lives of children, teens, and senior adults at the same time can be a bit overwhelming. Sadly I have found no effective curriculum that addresses this perplexing problem. Our solution for the summer is to take a solid curriculum for children and figure out ways to involve the older groups. So far, I think the effort has been fairly successful and a lot of fun for kids, teens, and adults alike. (Now I'll put in a short commercial.....if you attend AGM and haven't checked out this summer's WOW series, I think you'll find that it's not Bible study as usual and definitely enjoyable. You'll even learn something you didn't know before!)
Despite the success, it is easy to become tired and weary when preparing the lessons from scratch. I missed last week's WOW session due to family vacation and had gotten out of the routine of gearing up for the session. With trips to Texas and Oklahoma in the past 1 1/2 weeks, I had not found adequate time to prepare as thoroughly as I would have liked for last night's lesson. Add in the fact that I was already nervous about the potential for severe weather in the area and you can imagine that my mind was torn in a million different directions. I was ready to throw in the towel and simply go home.
Before last night's session, I was greeted at the door by one of my students -- who just happens to be my youngest niece -- with a huge hug and a broad smile. I was expecting to be buttered up for some favor honestly. The reality was much different; she told me how happy she was that I was back to lead the WOW session and that she was ready to learn! Did she proclaim that I was the most incredible teacher in the world? Not at all! Was she suggesting that I was the only one who could do this? Nope....she has sat under several gifted teachers in our congregation. What she was saying loud and clear was that our efforts and labor were making a difference in her life. Talk about an encouragement! I found a new energy and excitement for the evening. I quickly found a quiet place to thank God for the renewal that was delivered from the mouth of a child and asked for His anointing and guidance in the study. In the end, I was thrilled with the way the lesson turned out and believe that people heard the Word of God in a clear way that can be applied to their lives.
I am blessed to be in a church that constantly provides affirmation to me in all areas of ministry. For that I am thankful. Now I'm looking around me to see who I can affirm in the days ahead so they will know as well that their hard work is making a difference in my life. It is my prayer that it will come just at the right time to give them a needed boost of encouragement.
Despite the success, it is easy to become tired and weary when preparing the lessons from scratch. I missed last week's WOW session due to family vacation and had gotten out of the routine of gearing up for the session. With trips to Texas and Oklahoma in the past 1 1/2 weeks, I had not found adequate time to prepare as thoroughly as I would have liked for last night's lesson. Add in the fact that I was already nervous about the potential for severe weather in the area and you can imagine that my mind was torn in a million different directions. I was ready to throw in the towel and simply go home.
Before last night's session, I was greeted at the door by one of my students -- who just happens to be my youngest niece -- with a huge hug and a broad smile. I was expecting to be buttered up for some favor honestly. The reality was much different; she told me how happy she was that I was back to lead the WOW session and that she was ready to learn! Did she proclaim that I was the most incredible teacher in the world? Not at all! Was she suggesting that I was the only one who could do this? Nope....she has sat under several gifted teachers in our congregation. What she was saying loud and clear was that our efforts and labor were making a difference in her life. Talk about an encouragement! I found a new energy and excitement for the evening. I quickly found a quiet place to thank God for the renewal that was delivered from the mouth of a child and asked for His anointing and guidance in the study. In the end, I was thrilled with the way the lesson turned out and believe that people heard the Word of God in a clear way that can be applied to their lives.
I am blessed to be in a church that constantly provides affirmation to me in all areas of ministry. For that I am thankful. Now I'm looking around me to see who I can affirm in the days ahead so they will know as well that their hard work is making a difference in my life. It is my prayer that it will come just at the right time to give them a needed boost of encouragement.
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
2010 in Review - Part I
As the year draws to a close, many are reflecting over their experiences, successes, failures, and blessings. Others are looking forwarding to the new year and all the possibilities that it holds. I'm no different and I decided to take you on the journey of reflection with me.
I have always enjoyed New Year's Resolutions. Like many people, my resolutions were often left in the dust by mid-February each year. Last year, a very wise friend told me to change my view of resolutions and see them as "dreams with deadlines." Additionally, he challenged me to divide my life into various arenas (spiritual, professional, etc) and come up with a set of resolutions for each. By realizing that these were nothing more than dreams, they never became a source of guilt or stress; rather, my resolutions for 2010 served as guiding goals to keep me on track. Each morning, I have seen this list of 10 resolutions taped to the mirror in my bedroom. Over the next few days, I will reflect on my experiences in each area and let you know how I did with each of my resolutions.
Without further ado, here are the 10 resolutions that guided my actions during the year 2010.
1. Submit an article for journal publication. Right away, we come to a resolution that did not get accomplished this year. I have several drafts of various papers written, but nothing quite went the direction I intended or I ended up in territory about which I was unqualified to authoritatively speak. I have learned more about the process and the timetable that I need to follow in order to complete an article.
On a side note, however, the pursuit of journal publication shifted slightly in the summer to establishing a blog about music. My blog Collaborations is still rather young and has faced some difficult times (especially as the fall semester came to a close), but I have been very pleased with the positive feedback I have received from respected colleagues in the field. I anticipate that 2011 will see a heavy emphasis in the return of quality blogging in my resolution list.
2. Perform a chamber recital. It may be appropriate to call 2010 the year of the recital for me. I presented a total of 7 recitals this year in 5 states. In addition to the classical recitals, I also served as musical director of Crittenden Youth Theater's Spring production of Pinocchio. Not to be left out, my church job had its fair share of performances this year as well -- including a very successful Kidz Music Camp using the musical Livin' Inside Out in an Upside World and the adult choral production of The Reason for Christmas.
Of all of the performing, three engagements stand out in my mind. In May, I traveled to Houston, Texas to collaborate for the first time with clarinetist Jere Douglas. Jere has become a valued friend and colleague; I look forward to our next musical endeavor together in May, 2011.
I have directed Kidz Music Camp for several years now and feel very confident in my ability to produce a quality show while ensuring that the students have a good time. This year's show was probably my favorite experience ever. The students were joyful, the music and choreography was fun, and the ministry was authentic and of eternal significance. There can be no greater combination.
Finally, the last recital of the year with Marty Bishop in Jonesboro ranks as one of the best musical experiences of the year. As I mentioned in my review of the recital over on Collaborations, Marty is a gifted musician who doesn't forget the value of friendship and kindness. The music was good; the experience of making music was enjoyable -- the perfect way to end the year's music making.
3. Complete 4 Bible studies/ministry studies. I missed the goal a bit here, but I completed 3 of them. The year began with an online study of Christian Education Philosophy. I completed the study, but don't anticipate doing another online class anytime soon. The other participants were not terribly active in the discussion, so I was left to my own resources much of the time.
The other Bible studies that I completed were very personal and spoke directly to me at crucial times of the year. My mother and I formed a "small group" (if you can call it that with only 2 participants!) in our home and completed two of Beth Moore's studies: Esther and Daniel. Yes, I am fully aware that these studies were intended for a female audience, but I cannot begin to express how mightily these Bible studies spoke truth and challenges into my heart. Of these two, my favorite was Daniel hands down! Mom got a few weeks behind due to some eye infections so I'm still getting to review and digest this challenging material.
The Bible study bug has bitten hard in the Freeman family. We are already planning our next "small group" study beginning in February and are adding a few more members to our circle. We'll be starting out with another Beth Moore study: Jesus, the One and Only. I'm already getting excited to dive into the depths of the life of Christ early in the new year. (If you're interested in how we are pulling off the family small group without breaking the bank, let me know.....I'll be happy to share.)
Tomorrow, I'll pick up with resolution #4 on my list......
I have always enjoyed New Year's Resolutions. Like many people, my resolutions were often left in the dust by mid-February each year. Last year, a very wise friend told me to change my view of resolutions and see them as "dreams with deadlines." Additionally, he challenged me to divide my life into various arenas (spiritual, professional, etc) and come up with a set of resolutions for each. By realizing that these were nothing more than dreams, they never became a source of guilt or stress; rather, my resolutions for 2010 served as guiding goals to keep me on track. Each morning, I have seen this list of 10 resolutions taped to the mirror in my bedroom. Over the next few days, I will reflect on my experiences in each area and let you know how I did with each of my resolutions.
Without further ado, here are the 10 resolutions that guided my actions during the year 2010.
- Submit an article for journal publication.
- Perform a chamber recital.
- Complete 4 Bible studies/ministry studies.
- Read through the entire Bible.
- Travel to one U.S. city I have never visited.
- Schedule one event each week for my personal enjoyment/relaxation.
- Lose 20 pounds.
- Journal at least twice each week.
- Complete one cross-stitch project.
- Read 52 books (the equivalent of one per week).
1. Submit an article for journal publication. Right away, we come to a resolution that did not get accomplished this year. I have several drafts of various papers written, but nothing quite went the direction I intended or I ended up in territory about which I was unqualified to authoritatively speak. I have learned more about the process and the timetable that I need to follow in order to complete an article.
On a side note, however, the pursuit of journal publication shifted slightly in the summer to establishing a blog about music. My blog Collaborations is still rather young and has faced some difficult times (especially as the fall semester came to a close), but I have been very pleased with the positive feedback I have received from respected colleagues in the field. I anticipate that 2011 will see a heavy emphasis in the return of quality blogging in my resolution list.
2. Perform a chamber recital. It may be appropriate to call 2010 the year of the recital for me. I presented a total of 7 recitals this year in 5 states. In addition to the classical recitals, I also served as musical director of Crittenden Youth Theater's Spring production of Pinocchio. Not to be left out, my church job had its fair share of performances this year as well -- including a very successful Kidz Music Camp using the musical Livin' Inside Out in an Upside World and the adult choral production of The Reason for Christmas.
Of all of the performing, three engagements stand out in my mind. In May, I traveled to Houston, Texas to collaborate for the first time with clarinetist Jere Douglas. Jere has become a valued friend and colleague; I look forward to our next musical endeavor together in May, 2011.
I have directed Kidz Music Camp for several years now and feel very confident in my ability to produce a quality show while ensuring that the students have a good time. This year's show was probably my favorite experience ever. The students were joyful, the music and choreography was fun, and the ministry was authentic and of eternal significance. There can be no greater combination.
Finally, the last recital of the year with Marty Bishop in Jonesboro ranks as one of the best musical experiences of the year. As I mentioned in my review of the recital over on Collaborations, Marty is a gifted musician who doesn't forget the value of friendship and kindness. The music was good; the experience of making music was enjoyable -- the perfect way to end the year's music making.
3. Complete 4 Bible studies/ministry studies. I missed the goal a bit here, but I completed 3 of them. The year began with an online study of Christian Education Philosophy. I completed the study, but don't anticipate doing another online class anytime soon. The other participants were not terribly active in the discussion, so I was left to my own resources much of the time.
The other Bible studies that I completed were very personal and spoke directly to me at crucial times of the year. My mother and I formed a "small group" (if you can call it that with only 2 participants!) in our home and completed two of Beth Moore's studies: Esther and Daniel. Yes, I am fully aware that these studies were intended for a female audience, but I cannot begin to express how mightily these Bible studies spoke truth and challenges into my heart. Of these two, my favorite was Daniel hands down! Mom got a few weeks behind due to some eye infections so I'm still getting to review and digest this challenging material.
The Bible study bug has bitten hard in the Freeman family. We are already planning our next "small group" study beginning in February and are adding a few more members to our circle. We'll be starting out with another Beth Moore study: Jesus, the One and Only. I'm already getting excited to dive into the depths of the life of Christ early in the new year. (If you're interested in how we are pulling off the family small group without breaking the bank, let me know.....I'll be happy to share.)
Tomorrow, I'll pick up with resolution #4 on my list......
Monday, October 4, 2010
Daniel Week 4
Chapter 4 of my study of Daniel has been intense. This week focused on King Nebuchadnezzar's second dream and his season of senility. The overall theme of the week might best be summed up this way: "The choice is yours -- humble yourself or be humbled by God." It's not a lesson that sounds inspiring to study for a week, but I have been blessed and challenged as I've explored the passage.
As I looked at the discipline God sent to Nebuchadnezzar, I was initially excited. I saw King Neb's sinfulness and thought "This is going to be great! Let's revel for a while in watching God root out some wickedness!" As I continued the study, I quickly had to come to terms with my own sinfulness; the lesson to be learned was not for someone else, but for me.
First, I was encouraged by observing that repentance was a way to avoid God's chastisement. In Daniel 4:27, Daniel tells the King that there may be a way to avoid the coming disaster: "Renounce your sins by doing what is right, and your wickedness by being kind to the oppressed." Isn't it a relief to know that God's desire is not to destroy us? He wants to bring us to repentance that results in restored fellowship with Him. Needless to say, Nebuchadnezzar refused to repent and suffered the consequences.
Even when we are disciplined, God's hope is to restore us and not to destroy us. In the dream God sent the King, the tree was cut down and stripped of its leaves and fruit. In the midst of all the devastation, notice the glimmer of hope: "But let the stump and its roots, bound with iron and bronze, remain in the ground, in the grass of the field." (Daniel 4:15) Daniel later points out the significance of this statement to the King. "The command to leave the stump of the tree with its roots means that your kingdom will be restored to you when you acknowledge that Heaven rules." (Daniel 4:26) In the midst of discipline, God includes a loving plan for full restoration.
Do you remember the last time you received correction from God? I certainly do. Believe me, it's not a memory I like to dwell on. When I do think back on it, I see how God protected me from total destruction, allowing the painful pruning of only what was sinful in my life. As soon as I renounced my sinfulness and declared His Lordship, the loving process of restoration began. As a result of this week's study, my view of this time of Godly correction has changed. No longer do I remember God's anger and wrath; rather, I see His discipline as an example of His eternal faithfulness to work all things for my ultimate good! What a tough lesson it was to learn, but I'm so glad I did.
As I looked at the discipline God sent to Nebuchadnezzar, I was initially excited. I saw King Neb's sinfulness and thought "This is going to be great! Let's revel for a while in watching God root out some wickedness!" As I continued the study, I quickly had to come to terms with my own sinfulness; the lesson to be learned was not for someone else, but for me.
First, I was encouraged by observing that repentance was a way to avoid God's chastisement. In Daniel 4:27, Daniel tells the King that there may be a way to avoid the coming disaster: "Renounce your sins by doing what is right, and your wickedness by being kind to the oppressed." Isn't it a relief to know that God's desire is not to destroy us? He wants to bring us to repentance that results in restored fellowship with Him. Needless to say, Nebuchadnezzar refused to repent and suffered the consequences.
Even when we are disciplined, God's hope is to restore us and not to destroy us. In the dream God sent the King, the tree was cut down and stripped of its leaves and fruit. In the midst of all the devastation, notice the glimmer of hope: "But let the stump and its roots, bound with iron and bronze, remain in the ground, in the grass of the field." (Daniel 4:15) Daniel later points out the significance of this statement to the King. "The command to leave the stump of the tree with its roots means that your kingdom will be restored to you when you acknowledge that Heaven rules." (Daniel 4:26) In the midst of discipline, God includes a loving plan for full restoration.
Do you remember the last time you received correction from God? I certainly do. Believe me, it's not a memory I like to dwell on. When I do think back on it, I see how God protected me from total destruction, allowing the painful pruning of only what was sinful in my life. As soon as I renounced my sinfulness and declared His Lordship, the loving process of restoration began. As a result of this week's study, my view of this time of Godly correction has changed. No longer do I remember God's anger and wrath; rather, I see His discipline as an example of His eternal faithfulness to work all things for my ultimate good! What a tough lesson it was to learn, but I'm so glad I did.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Daniel Reflections - Chapter 3
This week's study focused on the familiar story of the three Hebrew children that faced a furnace since they refused to bow to the King's golden image. I have known the story since childhood and have taught it to kids on numerous occasions. This week, I saw the story in a way I had never considered.
I don't think I had ever fully realized the faith displayed by the Hebrews. To stand up with integrity while facing the threat of a roaring furnace took confidence. I suppose Beth Moore best sums it up when she shows us how these men understood that God was able to deliver them from the fire, or to deliver them by the fire safely into His arms. Certainly they were hoping for escape. The alternative was not as bad as it would first appear. It seems they had overlooked a third option: God could deliver them through the fire. Thankfully -- for them and for us -- that's precisely what He did, too!
I see a problem approaching and beg God to deliver me. When He doesn't, often I begin to feel hopeless. How blessed to see things from a fresh perspective. God sometimes permits me to face fires so He can bring me through them and strengthen my faith. How do we get to this point of view? We must not neglect to see the mini-miracles God performs along the way.
In Daniel 3, we focus our attention on the huge miracle of the Hebrews coming out of the fire. Too often, while looking for the big deliverance, we miss seeing God's hand at work. Did you ever see the miracle that they boys survived their journey to the mouth of the furnace? It killed the soldiers who led them to their doom, yet they survived. Coincidence? Certainly not. It's an example of a mini-miracle of God. It's not accompanied by applause or lightning, but if we take notice of it, our faith and resolve are strengthened as we wait for God to bring us through the fire.
I continue to find myself in the middle of my own fiery furnace. This situation seems to be burning hotter than anything else I have faced and it feels as though I've been waiting for God to show up for a really long time. This week, I have been encouraged, knowing that I'm not waiting on Him. Instead, I know that He is already with me in the middle of my fire and is bringing me through it. So now I'm learning to look for His mini-miracles as I wait for my ultimate deliverance. In the meantime, I choose to walk around in this furnace with my Lord. I may not be out of the fire yet, but my Spirit is free because He is with me and I don't have to face the fire alone.
I don't think I had ever fully realized the faith displayed by the Hebrews. To stand up with integrity while facing the threat of a roaring furnace took confidence. I suppose Beth Moore best sums it up when she shows us how these men understood that God was able to deliver them from the fire, or to deliver them by the fire safely into His arms. Certainly they were hoping for escape. The alternative was not as bad as it would first appear. It seems they had overlooked a third option: God could deliver them through the fire. Thankfully -- for them and for us -- that's precisely what He did, too!
I see a problem approaching and beg God to deliver me. When He doesn't, often I begin to feel hopeless. How blessed to see things from a fresh perspective. God sometimes permits me to face fires so He can bring me through them and strengthen my faith. How do we get to this point of view? We must not neglect to see the mini-miracles God performs along the way.
In Daniel 3, we focus our attention on the huge miracle of the Hebrews coming out of the fire. Too often, while looking for the big deliverance, we miss seeing God's hand at work. Did you ever see the miracle that they boys survived their journey to the mouth of the furnace? It killed the soldiers who led them to their doom, yet they survived. Coincidence? Certainly not. It's an example of a mini-miracle of God. It's not accompanied by applause or lightning, but if we take notice of it, our faith and resolve are strengthened as we wait for God to bring us through the fire.
I continue to find myself in the middle of my own fiery furnace. This situation seems to be burning hotter than anything else I have faced and it feels as though I've been waiting for God to show up for a really long time. This week, I have been encouraged, knowing that I'm not waiting on Him. Instead, I know that He is already with me in the middle of my fire and is bringing me through it. So now I'm learning to look for His mini-miracles as I wait for my ultimate deliverance. In the meantime, I choose to walk around in this furnace with my Lord. I may not be out of the fire yet, but my Spirit is free because He is with me and I don't have to face the fire alone.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Thoughts from Daniel 2
After completing week two of Beth Moore's Daniel, my heart is filled with worship and my mind is stretched by all the history I've encountered. As I think over all that I have learned, three points rise to the surface.
1. "Rule for victorious living: when the stakes are high, bow low." (Beth Moore, Daniel, 37) Daniel's life was on the line if he could not tell the King exactly what he had dreamed and what it meant. Rather than fretting, Daniel recognized the Source of all knowledge and took the situation to God in prayer. Oh, that I would grasp this truth wholeheartedly! Life will be so much better when I stop worrying about how to fix things and run with my concerns to the One who has designed a perfect plan for me!
2. "There is a God in Heaven..." (Daniel 2:28) When asked to tell the king what was revealed, Daniel was careful to explain that the revelation came from God and not from His own insight. When a person performs in any way -- whether interpreting a dream or playing a musical instrument -- the response of many observers is to focus on the individual's skills. Like Daniel, I want to make sure that praise for anything I do or say goes straight to the Heavenly Father, the Words and the Music of my song of praise. I am merely an instrument chosen to share the Song with the world.
3. Victory is certain! In Nebuchadnezzar's dream, the statue is awesome and terrifying. In the end, the statue is completely destroyed by the Rock not cut by human hands. The statue represents various kingdoms of the earth -- many of which were oppressive to the people of God. Society continues to persecute believers on every hand. The good news is that victory is certain! We don't know when, but we do know WHO! In the middle of all my turmoil and stress, may I remember that Christ's return is imminent and that He will bring justice and peace. My heart cries, "Even so, Lord Jesus, COME!"
1. "Rule for victorious living: when the stakes are high, bow low." (Beth Moore, Daniel, 37) Daniel's life was on the line if he could not tell the King exactly what he had dreamed and what it meant. Rather than fretting, Daniel recognized the Source of all knowledge and took the situation to God in prayer. Oh, that I would grasp this truth wholeheartedly! Life will be so much better when I stop worrying about how to fix things and run with my concerns to the One who has designed a perfect plan for me!
2. "There is a God in Heaven..." (Daniel 2:28) When asked to tell the king what was revealed, Daniel was careful to explain that the revelation came from God and not from His own insight. When a person performs in any way -- whether interpreting a dream or playing a musical instrument -- the response of many observers is to focus on the individual's skills. Like Daniel, I want to make sure that praise for anything I do or say goes straight to the Heavenly Father, the Words and the Music of my song of praise. I am merely an instrument chosen to share the Song with the world.
3. Victory is certain! In Nebuchadnezzar's dream, the statue is awesome and terrifying. In the end, the statue is completely destroyed by the Rock not cut by human hands. The statue represents various kingdoms of the earth -- many of which were oppressive to the people of God. Society continues to persecute believers on every hand. The good news is that victory is certain! We don't know when, but we do know WHO! In the middle of all my turmoil and stress, may I remember that Christ's return is imminent and that He will bring justice and peace. My heart cries, "Even so, Lord Jesus, COME!"
Monday, September 13, 2010
Pursuing Integrity
As you may recall from last week's posts, I have begun a personal Bible study based on the book of Daniel. Beth Moore's teaching and writing are excellent, so I don't intend to summarize her work. What I will do is make a few comments on points that have stood out to me and share where my thoughts went as I studied Daniel 1.
The first thing that grabbed my attention is how powerfully this study is mixing with the ministry that's going on at my home church right now. Hang on a minute and you'll see the connection I'm making. In Isaiah 39, we read of King Hezekiah showing all the treasures of Judah to King Baladan of Babylon. Hezekiah's pride was motivating his actions; as a result of his pride, Isaiah prophesied that the day would come when the treasures of Judah would be taken by Babylon.
Remember the post about Joseph in the pit? Joseph's prideful actions landed him in a heap of trouble. If both Joseph and Hezekiah paid dire consequences because of their prideful actions, is it really surprising that pride can be the root of many of the problems we get ourselves into today? Definitely something worth considering!
Once in Babylonian captivity, Daniel and his young friends were taught the culture and traditions of Babylon. . . as well as the best the land had to offer. Daniel denied himself the choice foods of the King's table because consuming these ceremonially unclean foods would have been in violation of God's laws. Furthermore, sharing a meal signified friendship and acceptance. That was not a message that Daniel wanted to send to his captor.
Can you imagine the pressure Daniel and the three Hebrew children must have felt? It seems to me that these four boys were not the only ones being trained for the King's service at the time. This seems to be supported by Daniel 1:10 when the King's official asked Daniel, "Why should [the King] see you looking worse than the other young men your age?" While other boys – probably even other young Judean captives – were choosing to enjoy the pleasures of Babylon, Daniel and his friends displayed great integrity by saying "no" despite the prevailing consensus that surrounded them.
Do I have that same level of integrity? How often do I find myself skirting around issues, choosing to accept the comfortable (although somewhat questionable) action rather than standing for right in the midst of opposition? Sadly, I must confess that it happens more often than I want to admit. I have been indoctrinated by the modern Babylon that I live in to believe that such choices are acceptable.
Daniel was not some super-human. He simply resolved within himself that he would be faithful in the midst of a faithless society. Daniel 1 does not suggest that he refused the training and education that the Babylonian society offered. Education and knowledge are not presented as a source of evil. Rather, it appears that Daniel embraced learning of all kinds while filtering it through the foundation of his faith. This was extremely beautiful to me as a lover of learning. Beth Moore makes this point so eloquently:
Whatever Babylon taught them, God interpreted to them. They learned the language, literature, and customs all right, but only so God could use them in the midst of it. They read the language of their culture with the lens of God. Thereby, they became culturally relevant without becoming spiritually irrelevant. Against all odds, they retained a God-centered worldview so that ultimately the world could view their God. [Beth Moore, Daniel (Nashville: LifeWay Press, 2006), 26.]
At the beginning of this new week of Bible study, my prayer is that I will be both culturally and spiritually relevant so that the world I encounter daily might see Jesus in me.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Mining the Depths
Last night I finally began a new Bible study. I have now begun my journey into 12 weeks of study in Beth Moore's Daniel. For those of you who are convinced that Beth Moore's Bible studies are only for women, I challenge you to reconsider. While it is true that her studies are presented in a women's ministry format live, I have found that relatively little of the material is directly solely at women. Regardless of whether you choose to participate in a Beth Moore study or some other Bible study, hear the encouragement here: GET INTO BIBLE STUDY!
Last week while teaching my music appreciation class, it became clear that my students were not applying themselves to study outside of the classroom. I reprimanded them rather harshly, informing them that if they waited until the last minute, they would not be able to absorb all the information and would not perform well when the test came around. As I sat by myself later that day and allowed my mind to reflect on what I had said, my spirit was quickened and I began to feel convicted. It was as though God Himself were saying to me, "What a hypocrite! You expect more from your students that you are willing to commit yourself. You aren't devoting yourself to study of My Word in preparation for life's testings." The thought was clear and could not be missed; I was neglecting an important part of my life and it had to be corrected.
While I continued to think about my personal Bible study, I tried to justify myself. I was faithfully reading my Bible daily and praying. Why was I feeling this need for deeper study? Then it dawned on me. I don't expect my students to simply read their textbook in a casual manner and call that "studying." Just as I expect my students to pour over the text, grapple with its difficult passages, and seek out understanding and application, so God expects the same thing from my study of His Word. As a final blow to my attempted justification, I recalled that II Timothy 2:15 is not an optional instruction; we are commanded to study the Word of God in order to be approved by Him as workers that don't stand in His presence in shame. Something had to change….and it had to happen quickly.
I could go into a detailed explanation of WHY I chose this particular study at this time or the benefits of having a teacher (even one housed on a DVD), but I will just say that I realized that I needed to mine the depths of my Bible and find what new treasures await me there. I'm looking forward to spending some quality time in the Old Testament book of Daniel where I'll explore what it means to live a life of integrity in a world that supports anything but personal integrity. Why don't you join me on my adventure by making a personal commitment to increasing your level of study for the next three months? I have a feeling that if we do it, we will be changed for the better. All I know is that I'm ready for the dive……
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