July 12, 2016

Ladies, our last week of our devotional study of the Names of God we learned to know Him as Jehovah-tsidkenu: Lord of Righteousness, Jehovah-shammah: Lord is There and Qanna: Jealous. Let's review:

Days 37-38

Memory Verse: "He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him." 2 Corinthians 5:21

The Lord Our Righteousness: Jehovah-tsidkenu. In our sin nature is it possible to ever be "right" with God? Are there those that feel that their sin is beyond reconciliation with God? Beyond forgiveness? The Good News is "yes" through God's Grace it is possible. Kay notes " Man can be right with God! Righteous is more than goodness; it is a right standing with God. It is to do what God says is right, to live according to His standards. But righteousness in man requires a new heart. And man can have a new heart!"
We first see Jehovah-tsidkenu in scripture in Jeremiah chapter 23. God's people of Judah had strayed from Jehovah through the generations of Moses, David, Solomon up to the time of the prophet Jeremiah. Their sacrifices to God were not made from the heart; their hearts had turned cold "to stone". God remains faithful to His people and through His  mercy and love; in spite of their unfaithfulness, He remains faithful. In Jeremiah we see God's plan revealed for a new covenant a "righteous branch" and He will be called Jehovah-tsidkenu. The promise of a Savior, Messiah, Christ Jesus. God's people sanctified and made righteous through the sacrifice of His Son; through His grace. Through Jesus believers have the right to become children of God. John 1:12
"Blessed are they which do hunger and thrist after righteousness: for they shall be filled." Matthew 5:6  The awesomeness of God's love and mercy beyond comprehension and humbling beyond words to me.

Days 39-42

Memory Verse: And those who know Thy name will put their trust in Thee; for Thou, O LORD, hast not forsaken those who seek Thee. Psalm 9:10

"What do you do when you feel alone? Abandoned? Forgotten by everyone-maybe even God? What do you do when an iron bolt slides shut, imprisoning you in difficult circumstances? How Do you survive?" Jehovah-shammah is there. God's name Jehovah-shammah is first seen in scripture in Ezekiel 48:35. Ezekiel's prophesy of God's restoration of Israel and the punishment of her foes; in the end the nation of Israel will be rebuilt and Jehovah "is there." His people free from their captivity; in obedience to Him and glory to God: a future and a hope!

As Christians today in the USA we do not face physical imprisonment for our faith.  However, we can become imprisoned to the ways of the world; which hinder us in our walk in obedience to the ways of God.  We looked at several verse of scripture in the New Testament for Christian guidance in walking in the truth. My thoughts after study:

Daily praying, reading of the Bible and applying The Word to my life. Putting Christ first. Not to dwell on Earthly matters and put my trust in God. Material things are of no use if I do not have Christ. Wait and trust on the Lord. Learn to be patient, pray, wait for the answer before acting. Be willing to make sacrifices for my beliefs, for Christ; stand firm. In times of sickness, pain, turmoil, loneliness, focus on my Spirit, turn to the Lord, His Word, in prayer. My reward is with God in Heaven; the work cannot take this from me.

"Wherever you are, my friend, Jehovah is there, waiting longing to be your future and your hope. Do not be absorbed by your captivity. Rather, be absorbed with God!"

In the book of Ezekiel we see the message from God of the destruction of the city of Jerusalem by Babylon and the promise of restoration. Many times the question is why does God allow these things if He loves His people? The answer is may be found in the another of His names: Qanna-jealous.

His people and turned from God and He needed their focus back on Him. In Exodus 20: 1-6, when giving the Ten Commandments to Moses, God declares " I am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children, on the third and fourth generations of those who hate me." God judged the people of Israel and Judah for their idolatry.

Day 41 we looked at several verses in the Old Testament when God was There for His people. I am struck by how many times God continued to show His faithfulness and how many times His people fell away from faithfulness to Him. How many times we may see the same in lives of Christians today; falling away from faithfulness to the Jesus the one promised to us as Jehovah- shammah. Why do we rely on self, others, earthly things when our Lord is there waiting with arms open wide with love and blessings?

Questions for comment:

1. What was the promise that came from the revelation of God as Jehovah-tsidkenu?
2. What were the benefits of the promise?
3. What insights did you gain about the Righteous Branch? Who is He? What difference does that make in your life?
4. Another name for God id Qanna, jealous. What relationship did you see between the names, The Lord is There and Jealous?
5. What picture did you see in your mind when you read the account of the Lord's departure from the inner court in Jerusalem? How did that affect you emotionally?
6. How would you define God's jealousy? How do you see God's jealousy in relation to yourself?

One final thought for sharing comment, think thoughtfully and check back here at the blog for my response as well.

At the beginning of this study Kay asked us to describe God. After completing this study our final assignment is to write out another description of our God.

Thank you all for coming on this journey with me. I also thank you for your patience as I have learned about blogging and through delays in posting due to illness. I hope this study has been and will continue to be a blessing to you.

Debbie <><



Maratha: The Lord is Coming!

July 5, 2016

I hope everyone had a fun and safe July 4th holiday weekend with family and friends! We are in the last two weeks of our devotional study on the names of God. This week we finished our study of God as Jehovah-nissi and were introduced to Him as Jehovah-mekaddishkem,  Jehovah-Shalom, Jehovah-sabaoth and Jehovah-Jehovah-raah. A lot to review this week so let's get started!

Day 31

Memory Verse:  But thanks to God, who always leads us in His triumph in Christ, and manifests through us the sweet aroma of the knowledge of Him in every place. 2 Corinthians 2:14

 We continued to look at the story of Saul and the battle against the Amalekites in 1Samuel 15 as an example of the battle that we face as Christians daily between the flesh and the spirit. Jehovah-nissi was with Saul and brought him victory against Amalek in the battle. Then Saul disobeyed God, spared King Agag's life, took spoils from the battle. Years later in 2 Samuel 1 we learn that Saul died at the hands of an Amalekite descendant of Agag. We may not always understand His ways; but when we are obedient to God He will guide us, protect us and bring us victory not only for today's battle; but in future battles. "Under the banner of God, victory is always assured; but apart from it, defeat is a certainty. Only by abiding under the power, the standard, the banner, the ensign of your Jehovah-nissi can you have victory over the flesh, the world, and the devil, your enemies and God's."

Day 32

The Lord Who Sanctifies You

Today we learn to know God as Jehovah-mekaddishkem-the Lord Sanctifies You. Sanctify-to set apart, holy, saint.
God sanctified the Children of Israel, Exodus 19:2-6, under the covenant with Abraham and He sanctifies Christians under the new covenant through Christ Jesus. God gave Moses the Ten Commandments and commanded the His people to obey His voice, keep His covenant and then they would be His own possession. One of God's commandments specifically to keep His Sabbath. We studied several verses of scripture in the New Testament about our sanctification. My thoughts after studying this scripture: we are sanctified through our Lord Jesus Christ, the Word of God, the Holy Spirit, by abstaining from immorality. God sanctifies our spirit, body, soul. The knowledge of our sanctification through Christ Jesus brings grace and peace.

Day 33

The Lord is Peace

Memory Verse (one of my life verses) "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives; do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful." John 14:27

Jehovah-shalom revealed himself to Gideon in the battle between the sons of Israel and the Midians; when the odds against victory seemed insermountable. Kay notes, "When the hours is dark and the situation desperate, we finally long for God's peace. Then we crave it. " We looked at serval verses of scripture today to learn about peace and its relationship to God. Some of my insights from today's lesson: Peace comes from God when we keep His Sabbath, reverence His church and obey His commandments; grants peace trough providing for our welfare, protecting us from war. If we put our trust in God we can rest in assurance that He is in control and has a plan for us. God thinks peaceful thoughts for us. Focus on God, meditate on His Word. Fill your mind with the things of God; dwell on the positive not the negative. Our Lord Jesus Christ is the Prince of Peace.

Day 34

The Lord of Hosts

Mermory Verse: The LORD of hosts is with us; God og Jacob is our stronghold." Psalm 46:7

Jehovah-saboth the Lord of Hosts (Heavenly armies) first seen in scripture in 1 Samuel. "From God's perspective, it is a name that reminds His people of exactly who He is-not only the One who delivers; but also the One who judges. When we studies the book of Malachi we saw God reminding His people over and over again of His name Jehovah-saboth... "I am a great King, says the LORD of Hosts, and My name is feared among the nations." Malachi 1:10,14. His name is a strong tower for those who call on Him in faith as Jehovah-saboth and we examples set in today's lesson in the stories of Hannah and Peninnah, David and Galiath. "The name of the LORD is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe."

Day 35

The Lord My Shepard: Jehovah-raah

Today we studied John 10:1-17, 26-33. Over and over in scripture God refers to His people as His sheep.  What spoke to me today; The sheep know their Shepard. The Shepard cares for His sheep, provides, protects, loves. The theif that would steal the sheep from the Shepard is a false prophet, he will flee in times of trouble, is a liar, kills, destroys, sneaks in. Jesus is the one and only true Shepard. The Father loves Jesus, is One with Jesus.

Day 36

Memory Verse: " Surley goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever." Psalm 23:6

We continue to study Jehovah-raah: The Lord My Shepard through many verses of scripture in the Old and New testaments with emphasise on the 23 Pslam and the freedoms our Good Shepard provides from hunger, fear, friction, pests.These freedoms so that we may lie down in green pastures, by the still waters and feel the restoring of our souls in Christ Jesus.

Review questions for thought and comment:

1. Define Jehovah-mekoddishkem.
2. What did you learn about your relationship to Jehovah-mekoddishkem?
3. Are you set apart: If so, from what? How is your life different from those who do not know Christ?
4. What kind of peace does Jehovah-shalom bring?
5. In practical terms, how do you maintain peace?
6. Jehovah-sabaoth is the Lord of hosts. What does it mean?
7. In what kind of situation can you see knowledge of this name would be of valuable?
8. List the benefits that are your as a child-a sheep- of Jehovah-raah.
9. What is Jehovah-raah's main reponsibility:
10. In what way has Jehovah-raah met your needs?

Debbie <><

June 30, 2016

Good morning ladies, this past week in our study of "Lord I Want to Know You" we continued to learn to know as God as Jehovah-rapha; the Lord Who Heals and began to know Him as Jehovah-nissi: the Lord My Banner.

Day 25 Counseling Others

Memory Verse: Heal me, O LORD, and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved, Thou are my praise. Jeremiah 17:14

Kay asks, "Where do people turn when they need healing?" When others come to us for advice we as Christians may pray with them and offer our own personal wisdom; but are we as diligent and prepared to open the Word of God with others and seek Jehovah-rapha's wisdom to heal the mind, body and soul directly from the healing source? Prayer and support of a loving friend, family member, caring individual are powerful and not to be underscored! If we give someone a glass of water their thirst is quenched for the moment; if we lead them to the well of living water they may access the source to quench their thirst when alone and in need of healing. They become strong themselves in the Word and as they mature in their relationship with Our Lord are able to show others the Way. Kay reminds us" "It is God who heals lands, pestilences, wars, bodies, emotions, souls, spirits." "Whenever you need healing, first consult Jehovah-rapha, second, explore whether sin is the cause of the problem. Psalm 139:23-24, 1Chorinthians 4:4. It is wise to pray and ask Our Lord to search our hearts and reveal.

Days 26-28 Days of pause and reflection on our study and Kay gives an introduction to the Inductive Method of Bible Study. Joyce Anderson and I have completed several of Kay's Bible studies together using the Inductive Method. They are intense and time consuming; but I (and I believe Joyce would agree) have found them to be an awesome way to immerse in the Word and come away with a true and personal understanding.

Day 29 The Lord My Banner: Jehovah-nissi

We learn that God was first worshiped as Jehovah-nissi in Exodus 17:15 when He called the Israelites to battle against Amalek. This example of an ancient battle is given as instruction of us today as written in Romans 15:4 " For whatever is written in earlier times was written for instructions, that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope."

We are given the definition of a banner as: an ensign or standard carried at the head of a military band or body; to indicate the line of march, or the rallying point." We also learn that in ancient times a banner was not necessarily a flag; it was often a bare pole with a bright ornament that would glitter in the sun: Moses staff.

Amalek was a descendant of Esau, Jacob's (Israel's) brother who traded his inheritance for a bowl of stew to satisfy his immediate hunger of the flesh. Genesis 25:27-34. Like Esau who despised his birthright; Amalek dispised God and did not have reverence of God. Amalek was an enemy of the children of Israel, God's people from the beginning. In Deuteronomy 25:17-19 we reminded not to forget our inheritance nor the battle and consequences for the enemies of God and His children.
 The Word guides us in Galatians to discern between the fruits of the flesh and the spirit.

Flesh: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousy, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murder, drunkenness, revelries.

Spirit:  love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.


Day 30

At times we face different challenges and obstacles; but not unlike Esau we battle the flesh daily. Kay suggests that the flesh is our first enemy as Christians after we receive our Salvation through Christ Jesus. "For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please." Galatians 5:16.

Scripture gives us another example of Jehovah-nissi in the story of King Saul in 1 Samuel 15. The LORD kept His promise to Saul and was with him in the battle against the Amalekites. After the defeat of the Amalekites, Saul gave into the flesh and disobeyed the LORD, sparing King Agag and taking spoils from the victory. Samuel confronts Saul on his disobedience and reminds us that above all the LORD wants our obedience. God tells us to obey His commands; all of them. Not just the one's we like, understand or make us comfortable. Incomplete obedience is disobedience.

Questions for Response/Comments:

1. From the scriptures that you have studied, what can you conclude about the type of healing that Jehovah-rapha performs?

2. Think about the last time you needed to be healed. To whom did you go? What happened?

3. In Exodus 17, what two different situations do we see the children of Israel in? What was their attitude in the "no water" situation" Why do you think they had this attitude?

4. What strategy do you see in Exodus 17 for dealing with the flesh?

5. What was the role of Jehovah-nissi in the battle?

6. How have you dealt with the flesh? Under your own power? Under the banner of Jehovah-nissi? What was the result?

Until next week. God Bless, Debbie <><

June 29, 2016

I apologize ladies it has been a challenging two week; first sciatica and now getting over a respiratory virus. Please check back tomorrow by noon for this past week's lesson review. I appreciate your understanding and a patience. Debbie <><

June 21, 2016

Hi Ladies, we are at the half way mark with our study! I hope this study has been a blessing to you; it has been a blessing to me to share with you. As this online blog study our first I would sincerely like your feedback: What you like, don't like, would you like to see more online/at home studies in the future. If you are not comfortable leaving your comments at the blog please e-mail me at ageedb@comcast.net Thank you.


This week we we continued to get to know our God as Jehovah-jireh "the Lord will provide" and as Jehovah-rapha "the Lord who Heals".

Day 19

Memory Verse: "And my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus" Philippians 4:19

We learn today that that the word for provide "jireh" literally means "to see". Kay explains: "Our all- knowing, ever-present, eternal Father knows the end from the beginning and, thus, in His omniscience, He provides." What strikes me on this day and was a valuable lesson to me in maturity in my Christina walk is that my God, YOUR God, does not just provide and want to provide for the big thing: Salvation; but for our every day needs as well. This speaks to His desire to be in relationship with use on a daily basis.

"He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how will He not also with Him freely give us all things?" Romans 8:32

Day 20

Today we begin study on the name of the Lord: Jehovah-rapha "The Lord who Heals" We are challenged in today's lesson to reflect on our "ambassadorship" as children of Our Lord Jesus Christ, His representatives here on earth, the Holy Spirit dwelling in us with the healing power with in ourselves to reach out to others representing Jehovah-rapha. Healing not just the physical needs; but spiritual, emotional, daily needs and the eternal needs of the soul. Kay comments "we must search out those that need a physician and become actively involved in healing the wounds of His people."

Day 21

What does our Jehovah-jireh heal? From the story of Moses and the Israelites fleeing Egypt and crossing the Red Sea traveling to Marah we see that Jehovah-jireh provided fresh, sweet water for His people to drink. We learn that He protected His people from the diseases that He put on the Egyptians; and that He provides the healing for the physical, mind and spiritual needs.

Day 22

We delve deeper into what our Jehovah-jireh heals through study of several scriptures. My thoughts: God has the power to heal. Power over life and death; sometimes the healing comes as death. God shows mercy by taking someone home to Heaven. God can heal lands, nations. Heal sin, given by Grace, Salvation, sometimes through trial and tribulation. Cry out to God He will hear and answer. Complete and total forgiveness of sin does not mean complete and total eradication of all consequences of sin. Heals emotions; His understanding in infinite. Praise God for His blessings. He forgives sin, heals disease, He is worthy of praise. God wants every part of us in devotion: mind, body, soul. Jesus was sent as our Savior to heal us. God can heal the spirit; drive out demons. We are to witness to others God's power to heal. God sent Jesus to die for our sins on the cross so that we may be forgiven and might have salvation; eternal life.

Day 23

Healing from our sins; healing of our soul. A day to reflect on our own personal healing and salvation story; the day we accepted Jesus into our hearts as Savior, received forgiveness of our sins, the slate wiped clean, renewal! How awesome is our Jehovah-jireh!

Day 24

We are challenged again today looking at scripture we learn that health, healing and obedience to God go together. Correlation between sin and sickness of the body, mind, spirit and soul. Illness sometimes the result of personal sin, sometimes not. We studies several verses of scripture today as truth. My thoughts of reflection: David sinned and God issued punishment, pestilence on Israel, one man's sin can affect many. Miriam and Aaron sinned against God and He sent punishment in the form of Leprosy. Sin weighs us down, physically and spiritually; David's sin resulted in ill health. Sinful nations who turn from God will be punished; God will remove His protection. Illness may not be a result of sin; sometimes illness exalts God's glory. Jesus can heal if we only ask, believe and repent. God disciplines us when we sin to get our attention back to Him. Illness comes to the faithful. God will show mercy upon the sick and their faithful loved ones. God is interested in the whole person; we must take care of our physical, spiritual and mental needs in order to disciple to others. God will answer prayer for those who are ill. Church members should pray and care for one another; show compassion and forgiveness for one another.

Wow a lot to reflect on this week!

Questions for Response/Comments:

1. How is God's ability to foresee pertinent to your life?

2. Recall a time in your walk with Jehovah-jireh when He met your need; will you share it for other's encouragement?

Debbie <><

June 15, 2016

Good morning Ladies, PTL sciatica has improved! Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers. I hope you are all finding blessings in our study "Lord, I Want to Know You". This week we learned three new names of our God: Adonai, Jehovah, Jehovah-Jireh.

During this weeks study song was stuck in my head "El Shaddai, El Shaddai, El-elyon na Adonai age to age your still the same by the power of the name."-Amy Grant

Lets' review together.

Day 13

Adonai: Lord and Master (supreme in authority, controller).

In chapter 6 of our study, Kay writes " Before you can really know God as El Shaddai, the all sufficient One, I believe you must bow before Him as Adonai, your Lord and Master."

We learned that God as Adonai is first referenced in scripture in Genesis 15:2 during the establishment of the LORD's covenant with Abram.

15:1 "After this the LORD came to Abram in a vision: I am you shield, your very great reward." 15:2 "But Abram said, Sovereign Lord, what can you give me since I remain childless and the one who will inherit my estate is Eliezer of Damascus?"

We looked at several examples in scripture of the Lord as Adonai: Psalm 89: 50-51, Psalm 141:8-10, Psalm 119:125, Judges 6:14-16.

One of my life verses is Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." It still amazes me how much strength He does and is willing to give me.

Our TNBS of Gideon in the book of Judges with Priscilla Shirer was an awesome example of how God uses us and gives us His strength to accomplish great things for His glory.

We also looked at several scriptures that gave example of what God is Lord and Master over:
Deuteronomy 9:26, 1 Kings 2:26, Psalm 2:4, 8:1, 6-8, 37:12-13, 97:5, 114:7, 135:5, 136:3.
Our lives, our inheritance, people, nations, death, priests, kings, heaven, Earth, animals, birds, fish, the sea, all creation, judgement, mountains, mercy, all gods.

Day 14

Our God is Adonai yet we (myself included) still struggle at times letting go of control over our lives and trusting in Him. (Utt oh another song in my head "Jesus Take the Wheel"- Carrie Underwood) Giving Him the praise and glory that He deserves as the source of our strength. That life verse Phil. 14:3 sits on my desk at work; yet at times I look right past it and my Lord and allow the stress of a situation to start creeping in and affect my attitude, my spiritual and even physical being. Why?

"And why do you call Me, Lord, Lord and do not do what I say?" Luke 6:46

"And if I am a master where is My respect? says the LORD of hosts to you, O priests who despise My name... Malachi 1:6

Several examples of believers in scripture who believed in God as Adonai, yet when called upon by God doubted His promise to see them through: Moses, Malachi, Jonah.

Kay asks if God is Adonai, what about His Son? We are given several scriptures that are proof of Jesus is Adonai: Luke 14:25-27, Matt 10:34-40, John 13:13-16, Romans 10:8-10, Matt 7:21-27.

Day 15

Jehovah-the Self-Existent One

Memory Verse: And God said to Moses, "I AM WHO I AM"; and He said, 'Thus you shall say to the sons of Israel, I AM has sent me to you." Exodus 3:14.

We learned that  the name Jehovah speaks to God's essence or being. Jehovah the self-existent one, Alpha and Omega, the same yesterday, today and forever. This is our assurance that God will keep his promises of old; He does not change. His word is unwavering, We can put our trust in Him and He will remain faithful. He is who He says He is; He keeps His word.  In addition to the scripture we looked at on this day; verses of scripture that have been an assurance to me: Gen. 21:33, Hab. 3:6, Mal. 3:6.

Days 16-17

Jehovah-jireh: The Lord Will Provide

"Who am I that You are mindful of me, That You hear me when I call, Is it true that You are thinking of me, How You love me it's amazing....I am a friend of God...He call me friend. -Israel ( Yes, another praise song!)

The Lord WILL provide and WANTS to provide for us; His children! How awesome is that?!

In studying Genesis 22: 1-19 the story of Abraham and his willingness at God's command to respond in obedience and sacrifice his only son Isaac we see how our God in response to Abraham's obedience, reverence and love for God, spared Isaac and provided the ram for the sacrifice. Abraham provides an example to us in our relationship with God of love, worship, obey.

The Lord will provide-always. He may surprise us, He may perplex us, He makes us wait until the time is right; but He will provide. God always blesses obedience, obedience follows faith, faith follows obedience.

Day 18

The New Testament in the Old Testament concealed, The Old Testament in the New Testament revealed. The first time we see Jehovah-jireh in the Old Testament we see a father offering his son as sacrifice.

God through His mercy and love for us provides the ultimate our eternal salvation through the sacrifice of His only Son Jesus Christ on the cross. God's love for His children amazing beyond words; to provide for our eternal salvation at such tremendous sacrifice. Worthy of all our glory and praise. Yet He still wants to provide more- for all our needs in our day to day existence here on Earth; and to have a personal relationship with each one of us. How awesome is that?


Response questions for this week's study:

1. Why is it important to know God as Adonai before you call on Him as El Shaddai?

2. In light of Jesus Christ being Adonai, how would you explain Matthew 7:21-22 to another?

3. Jehovah is the God of the covenant. From your study, what did you learn about your covenant-keeping Jehovah that can be applied to your life today?

Debbie <><

Tuesday, June 7, 2016

Good evening ladies, this past week we continued to learn to know Our LORD through the study of His names: El Elyon: The Most High, El Roi: The God Who Sees and El Shaddai: The All-Sufficient One.

Day Seven:
 We looked at several verses of scripture in the Old and New Testaments that reveal the truth of God's sovereignty. For me these verses in Isaiah, Deuteronomy, 1 Samuel and John spoke to me a comfort and a reminder of humility that "God is control." Many of you that have studied with me before know that I have the utmost respect for Dr. Charles Stanley and his ministry. One of Dr. Stanley's Life Principles "Obey God and leave all the consequences to Him" (Exodus 19:5) comes to mind. As I think on the sovereignty of God reveled my thoughts are that blessings  all encompassing come from God. I may not fully understand; but God has a plan for my life and the peaks and valleys that appear.

Day Eight:
How does our enemy, Satan, stand in comparison to El Elyon, the Most High? Through the story of Job we see truth that in times of the valleys, storms and outright attacks from Satan our God Most High is in control. There is no "battle" between Heaven and Hell God and Satan; God has "won" and He is in control of Satan. Our God will not give us burdens more than we can bear; He is our refuge through trials and tribulation; His faithfulness and integrity are unending.

Day Nine:
He is the Only God; worthy of love, praise, faithfulness, trust and obedience through the valleys and on the mountain tops. If I give my life to the Lord I have nothing to fear; He will sustain. Kay uses the story of Joseph as another example of God's faithfulness to His faithful during times of suffering; and the blessings that come.

Memory Verse: I will cry to God Most High, to God who accomplishes all things for me. (Psalm 57:2)

Day Ten:
El Roi, yes, he is the God who sees. "The omnipresent God is there, and His eyes are not shut. He isn't asleep, unaware of all the circumstances. He sees." In Genesis 16 we study the story of Hagar, Sarai and Abram. An example to us of the chaos that can ensue when we try to take over control of circumstances for God. Kay asks "in light of what you know about God, how do you feel it would help to know Him as El Roi?  Thoughts that come to mind: Sometimes I feel used, overwhelmed, unappreciated. I see and hear of injustice, wickedness, unfairness in the world around me. It is a comfort to know that God sees too. Justice for the wicked, blessings for the faithful will come by God's hand, in His time. He promises it to be so.

Day Eleven:
So God Sees! Dealing with the emotions and lingering memories of past hurts. We forgive; but harder to forget? How do we heal? In the knowledge that God is in control and He Does See and is waiting for us to come to Him for comfort and to trust in His truths and promises. "These truths will be your comfort, your healing, your sanity, your hope, your protection against the fiery darts of the accusing liar." For me this knowledge of God as El Roi makes it easier to let go of anger, fear, need for justice, feelings of injustice, easier to forgive myself and others, trusting in His promise to raise up His anointed, and judge/punish the wicked.

Day Twelve:
El Shaddai: The All-Sufficient One

Memory Verse: Now when Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to Abram and said to him, "I am the God Almighty (El Shaddai); walk before me, and be blameless." (Genesis 17:1)

Whenever we see God Almighty in the Old Testament, we see El Shaddai. The first time He revealed himself to Abram (Genesis 17:1-8). " I am the God Almighty; walk before Me; and be blameless." At 99 years of age God promises Abram that He is making His covenant with him and his descendants; he shall be called Abraham and be the father of multitude of nations. In our weakness God makes us strong beyond our imagination of capability. How often we my turn to worldly, temporary comforts: love and approval of others, drugs, alcohol, food, work, hobbies, entertainment, "fill in the blank" when our All Sufficient God and Father is awaiting with open arms to provide for all our needs and promises to do so if we will only come.

Questions from this weeks study:

1.How does the study of El Elyon help you better understand the instruction, "in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus" (1 Thessalonians 5:18) ?

2. From the study of El Elyon, how limited is Satan? Who sets his limits?

3. How do you see El Elyon's work in you own life?

4. In what situations would it help you to know God as El Roi? How?

5. How does 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 apply to God's name El Shaddai?

6. What are some things that you have looked to for satisfaction? Did they satisfy?

7. Has God revealed Himself to you as El Shaddai? What has this meant in your life?

Lord, I Want to Know You Week 1 Review

Memory Verse

 "The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous runs into it and is safe." (Proverbs 18:10)

Day 1:
In day one's study were you able to relate to the story of the fawn being chased by the dog?; I was. How many times it has felt that way when the stresses of the world, illness, strife in relationships; or the out right attack of the Enemy on our physical, emotional and spiritual well being. The Good News we have a heavenly Father, Lord and Savior that we may run to anytime the dogs are at bay. Isaiah 50:10, John 17:3, Philippians 3:10

Day 2: "Some boast in chariots, and some in horses; but we will boast in the name of the LORD, our God." (Psalm 20:7)

Kay asked some convicting questions here: When in trouble where do we run? Do we seek the counsel or comfort of others first or do we go to our all sufficient God in prayer? Chariots and horses represent protection in times of old. What do we look to as our protection in modern times? We Believe; but do we have confidence and trust in our LORD God? Maybe the confidence in our God is there; but not in our worthiness? Yet, His word tells us we are worthy; sons and daughters with a full inheritance. Galatians 4:5, Ephesians 1:11, Colossians 1:12, 1 Peter 1:4, 2 Corinthians 6:18

"Call Upon Me in your day of trouble; I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me." Psalm 50:15. If we do not seek the LORD are we not denying Him his due glory?

Day 3: Psalm 20: our "go to" chapter for times of trouble; we find the LORD'S promises, our responsibility, our victory, and the glory to God. God saves His anointed, answers our prayers, gives us strength, hears our call, raises us up, counsels, remembers our offerings, gives us security, helps us in our times of trouble.

Day 4: Elohim-God the Creator; name that designates God as God.  Of heaven and earth of you and me; we are fearfully and wonderfully made. (Psalm 139:13-14). The work of God is displayed in us! How awesome, amazing and humbling! How worthy our Creator is of our glory not only in the good times; but in times of trouble.

God you are the Creator of all, who am I to question Your wisdom? May I see your beauty in all your creations. I thank you for all you have made me and all you provide. My highest desire is to know your name and obey your will. Only You are worthy of praise. In thanksgiving and glory to you for all my blessings. Amen.

Day 5: Why were we created/born? (Isaiah 43:1,3-4,7, Revelation 4:11). We were created for His glory.

Memory Verse: "Worthy are Thou, our Lord and our God, to receive glory and honor and power; for Thou didst create all things; and because Thy will they existed, and were created." Revelation 4:11

Our lives are to be lived to reflect God our creator; to show the world His character, love, peace, mercy. Fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).

Day 6: El Elyon: the God Most High; the name that designates God as the sovereign ruler of the universe. (Genesis 14:20, Psalm 78:35, Daniel 4:34-35, Isaiah 46:9-11).

There is only one God. There is none above Him, He is ancient of time, prophecies of Old Testament come to pass in New Testament. Therefore, we can put our trust and faith in God and His word. God is worthy of all our praise and honor. God is the source of our wisdom and power. Blessing are His to bestow at His will and for His purposes. God has a purpose and plan for our lives. He will always follow through on His promises and warnings. No one can deny God's will; He is in control.

Response Questions:

1. In Psalm 20, God talks about men who boast in chariots and horses and men who boast in the name of the Lord. What does trusting in chariots and horses mean?

2. Can you remember a time when you trusted in "horses and chariots"? What was the results in your life?

3. Can you remember a time you boasted in the name of the Lord? What was the result?

4. Elohim identified God as Creator. From your study, why do you think it is important to know Him as Creator?

Debbie <><

Kay Arthur opens the introduction to our study "Lord I Want to Know You" with the following paragraph:

"So much of our confusion, our pain, our indecision, and our wrong decisions come because we do not know God. We may know about Him-we may know what others say about Him-but do we know what God says about himself? Do we know for ourselves who He really is and, therefore, how He conducts Himself in the affairs of mankind?"

"When we know God as He really is, there is a power in in our lives-the ability to stand firm. We aren't left in the state of inertia where so many are today simply because they do not know and confidently understand the character and way of their God."

"This Beloved is what Lord, I Want to Know You will accomplish in your life."

In the back of our workbook is a page with the names of our God and their meaning; there is also a page that proceeds with a guide to pronouncing the names of God. 

I completed the study over five years ago and it brought me closer to God through knowing Him more deeply for who He is and wants to be in my life and the lives of all who believe. In reviewing this study again it is just as fresh to me today and an awesome reminder to me of His faithfulness.

When I think on the names of God and who He is I am in awe of His greatness and His love and desire to have a personal relationship. For me His names I call on most often:

El Roi: The God Who Sees-when I am feeling that life is "not fair" to me or others.

Jehovah-shalom: The Lord Is Peace-how often I turn to Him when the stress, hurts, turmoil of life starts to weigh heavy. He is my sanctuary, my true peace.

Adoni: Lord, Master-He is the one and only true, living God! How often I pray "thy will be done" and how more often I should. ;)

As we begin our study, I would like to ask all of you to share:

1. What are you looking to the Lord to reveal to you through this study?

2. When you look at the many Names of Our God; which one(s) resonate with you and why?

Our course outline is posted here with each week's homework. If you are having any difficulties with leaving your comments or navigating the blog site please let me know. 

I know that you will all be blessed by this study and I am excited you have been lead with us on this journey!

Debbie <><

"Lord, I Want to Know You” by Kay Arthur

Bible Study Outline

Week 1 May 24^th: Introduction

Week 2 May 31^st: Days 1-6

Week 3 June 7^th: Days 7-12

Week 4 June 14^th: Days 13-18

Week 5 June 21^st: Days 19-24

Week 6 June 28^th: Days 25-30

Week 7 July 5^th: Days 31-36

Week 8 July 12^th: Days 37-42

Each week there will be 6 days of study material to complete as outlined above. The idea behind the online Bible study blog is to give ladies with busy schedules the ability to have the flexibility to work on the study at home with the added online fellowship of other ladies who will also be doing the Bible study through communication at the blog site. Each week on the Tuesday, I will update the blog site with questions for comments based on the previous weeks study material.  I am excited to see where the Lord will take us on this new journey! I am a newbie blogger and appreciate your patience and support as we move forward together to know our God for who he is and desires to be in all our lives!

Debbie <><

Blog Site Address:

https://fbcfotnbs.blogspot.com

Discover who God really is, and how He works in our lives with the Bible study, Lord, I Want To Know You by Kay Arthur. When you know God more fully by studying His names - Creator, Healer, Protector, Provider, and many others - you'll gain power to stand strong. You'll find strength for times of trial, comfort for pain, provision for your soul's deepest needs. And your walk with God will be transformed. Coming May 24-July 12, 2016.