Welcome back to the Womens Bible Cafe™ as we discuss week two from Lies Women Believe by Nancy DeMoss. Last week we asked you to find one Scripture verse that would help you walk away from Satan’s lies and more than 100+ of you replied! Great job ladies…..you inspire me as well as the others who are participating in this online Bible study.
(image: Unsplash)
After our study this week, I was recognize how Satan planted the seeds of deception in my young life. When I was 12 years old my beloved uncle lost his life to lung cancer. Because of this, I assumed a false belief that God was not good. During my college years and prodigal run, I wrongly believed God did not love me, God could not see me, and God was only good to certain people.
Since God didn’t answer my prayer to spare my uncle’s life, I assumed He did not love my family. I walked in the darkness searching for a love only God would be able to provide. We can’t hide from God under false assumptions and lies; we’re only hiding from ourselves. Through Bible study, God has shown me Truth and set me free!
My life was transformed when I saw the goodness of God. He didn’t just push an “on switch” and transform me. Instead He walked me through painful events while I was seeking Him. Over time, I started to see the God whom I had abandoned in unbelief. I saw a Father who loved and cared for my family, and I saw God was good. It was during these trials that I needed Him, trusted Him and gave my life to Him.
Today I see God as my Father, not a punisher. I see myself as His daughter and I see my circumstances as His will and an opportunity to learn and grow near to Him. God is my Rock and I will never again be shaken by unbelief.
When I changed my view of God, I changed my view of myself. -Christine Abraham
Lies Society Widely Accepts as True (answers from our students during last week’s group discussion)
- …the lie that we should all be superwomen. Tend the family, work the job, keep the house, spend NO time on ourselves!
- …the lie that I missed the mark, will never live up to God’s standard & will only tread water with mediocre ministry.
- …the lie that it’s OK to charge that now. Just pay it off in a year….
- …the lie that you must go to college, find a great job, have a successful career, find a great husband, have children, buy 2 cars, 1 house, and etc.. etc.. etc.. IF YOU don’t do these things, you are nothing and your life doesn’t matter.
- …the lie that I cannot stand up for myself without coming across as a jerk or for fear of hurting someone else’s feelings.
- …the three lies: that I am unsuccessful, unattractive, and insignificant,
- …the lie that there is no value in taking care of the home and children, and that women need a fulfilling fast paced career in order to feel valued.
- …the lie that I am not good enough in my marriage
- …the lie that to be successful, loved, respected, women must be young, beautiful, thin, groomed and dressed very fashionably and expensively.
- …the lie that women need to be busy and I thank God for His Word and commandment to rest.
- …the lie that we have to control most things in our lives and are not taught to rely upon God and put our faith in him that he will take care of us
- …the lie that is continually accepted by society: Racism
- …the lie that we need MORE,MORE,MORE…..bigger is better, new car, new hourse, it is ok to be in debt, everyone else is…….the lie that money and objects make you happy.You have to have lots of “stuff” to be happy or successful.
- …the lie that if you do a good deed, then you will have a place in heaven.
- …the lie of having to have/keep up a certain appearance….I mean, between the media, fashion industries & the Jones, this world has forgotten that none of that ever mattered…
- …the lie that I can’t lose weight or I don’t look good
- …the lie of doubting that God is in control and will take care of me, husband, and the rest of my family and friends.
- …the lie of not being loved. I live alone and my children are not close. I can go for days and my phone never rings.
- …the lie that success is measured in dollars in our world and not in the health of our relationships with others – our God, our families, etc.
- …the lie that I won’t be rewarded for the sacrifices I’ve made and that it won’t get better.
- …the lie that you have messed up to much and will never be”God enough”
- …the lie that wealth equals blessing
- …the lie of blaming others for your bad attitude and not taking responsibility for it yourself.
- …the lie that there is no absolute truth – all people’s beliefs are right.
- …the lie that you need to preform perfectly to be accepted.
- …the lie that women needing to be so “independent”.
- …the lie that “It takes both parents working to make a living and provide for a family”
- …the lie that said that God is not enough.
- …the lie that you can do it my way and that you are a queen of your own destiny.
- …the lie of Satan throwing the weight of my sins back on me daily… Shame, Guilt.
- …the lie that ” As long as I’m not hurting anyone (or breaking the law), I can do what ever my heart desires. If it feels good, it must be good.”
- …the lie that how you live will have control of your future destiny.
- …the lie that “A fetus is not a baby”
From our group discussion, it’s apparent that we see and recognize the obvious lies. Yet when you look at our study this week, we now realize that some lies are less obvious. Some lies are deep inside our hearts, planted with a tiny seed that guides our decisions and beliefs. Some lies are formed when we are small children and some lies are formed as adults. As we continue this journey with Nancy Leigh DeMoss we’ll discover more lies we believe and the truth to set us free.
Author Nancy DeMoss has created a list called Countering the Lies with Truth. I want you to read this list in your book, and this time insert your name before each truth. For example, you will say” (your name) believes God is good and God does not make mistakes.”
Write these truths out or make a copy of this page and carry it with you until you have embedded the Truth into your heart and mind. We need to recognize the truth because there is so much pressure from family, friends and society to accept lies.
As you continue your study, know that your small group leaders are praying for you by name. We’re praying to stop any distractions or obstacles which might keep you from learning the Truth and completing this bible study. We know if you make it past the third week of study, chances are you’re going to persevere and finish the journey. If you feel like you’re struggling, falling behind or lacking commitment…I strongly advise you to email your leader or contact me so you will not stumble on the journey to freedom.
Assignment For the Next Week
- Pray for the women who are doing this study with you.
- Read Chapter Three in your book and companion guide.
- Look at the list of Key Resources on page 269 for topics addressed in this book
- Check in with your Small Group Leader
Have a great week…stay on track with your reading and may you grow in truth!
God is good…always!
Question #2 – If I TRULY grasped in my spirit all that God REALLY is, all that the WORD says HE is and did not listen to or believe any LIES of the enemy, I think I would be filled with so much faith, confidence and hope for my life and my future regardless of the trials I go through. I do believe who God is – I have trouble getting it from my head to my spirit and still believing when I don’t see answers for years and years. It does tend to make you lose hope that God will answer YOU, especially when you see others getting their prayers answered in awesome ways. Some days it feels as if His Will for my life is one of continued “same-ness” without seeing good results, which causes me to fear and have doubt.
Staying in bible study helped me grasp this concept and now I do live my life knowing God is really there. I had to break free of my strongholds and captivity (Beth Moore, Breaking Free) recognize the enemy and how he robs my joy (Invisible war, Chip Ingram and When Godly People Do Ungodly Things, Beth Moore) and change my thought process (Lies women Believe, Nancy DeMoss and Me, Myself and Lies, Jennifer Rothschild). Through these studies, plus the studies on biblical people such as Ruth, Daniel, Esther, Jonah, David and James…I’m able to center my life and thoughts on God. When doubt rears its ugly head, I’m able to reach for the truth because I stay inside scripture and bible study. It’s not like a pleasure book that I read once and tuck away on a shelf; the bible is a manuscript for living my life. My only complaint is that I did not discover this earlier in my life. Keep on the path of knowing God…He will set you free.
Hi Jean,
You are not alone in this struggle, I too like many other women and men have the same feelings. I have witnessed in my personal life the work of the Lord and still doubt him at times. But deep down inside I know that without him I am nothing and I need him to get me through every minute of the day. Just a few weeks ago I had a horrible toothache (literally) horrible and I prayed and asked to please rid of my toothache because I do not have dental insurance and was not sure how I would pay for me to go to the dentist. It felt like I was going to need a root canal; well, about 2 days later, I was driving and realizing my tooth did not hurt and I felt so much better. Simple things like this we tend to over look at times.
Regards,
Teresa
Doubt can also be spiritual warfare. Chip Ingram in his book “Invisible War” gives many examples of pastors who suddenly, after years of teaching, doubt God. It’s happened to a few of them, and when they pray through it they realize it was deception from Satan.
3. Its hard to experience God’s goodness when I dwell way to long on negative situations. If a situation is out of my control and the enemy uses others to effect me, I have a tendancy to dwell too long on these situations and become frustrated. I catch myself thinking negatively and realize wow I have been spending way to much time thinking on this. I am learning to ask Jesus to come into all this craziness. if the enemy can knock me down by effecting me with circumstances that lead to negative thinking then it effects my witness, I can’t demonstrate His love and I can’t experience the goodness of God. While writing this, these verses came to me Phil 4: 8-9. Its time to get God’s goodness and peace back in my life.
Keep memorizing scripture verses to stand firm against the negative. You might enjoy the book “Who Switched Off My Brain” by Dr Caroline Leaf and also “The Invisible War” by Chip Ingram. The enemy is using negative thoughts to distance you from God’s will. There is a difference between conviction and condemnation. Conviction is when the Holy Spirit places a though into your mind to draw you closer to God. Condemnation is when Satan convinces you of something negative to draw you away from God. Watch for this and learn how to protect yourself from the negative thoughts.
Question 1: there was most definately a time that I rejected God’s goodness. As a teenager i rebelled, at age 13 I started smoking, drinking, using drugs. When I was 16 I was raped, got pregnant as a result. I became very promiscuous, satan planted the lie that I was nothing, that God didn’t love me. I was so lost, but I thought I was doing good. I met a guy, we moved in together, I got pregnant again. I lived like this for 13years. Then God started tugging at my heart, I started feeling something was missing. Eventually I surrenderd my life to God. There were some very good things that came out of this time,my firstborn son is now 35, my second baby is a beautiful 33 year old woman, my boyfriend that I moved in with is now my husband of 28 years.
What a testimony Ruth, you will be an inspiration to many teen girls as well as anyone you encounter. Live for the Audience of One and let God use you as His witness.
Beautiful testimony. Thank you for your openness.
Yes, We were going through some serious hurts and pains, and I turned my back completely on God. I then rapidly fell into sin and our lives were all nearly destroyed. Our actions don;t just affect us, they affect those around us. But GOD saved me and us, I came to repentance… and His mercy helped our family through the original pain and hurt and all the hurt that transpired afterward… He is merciful
Now God uses you for His glory, and as Beth Moore says “he doesn’t allow you to see how you are glorifying Him because it would lead you to pride.”
Several major thoughts (besides the lies and corresponding truths) in this chapter resonated with me. All of the quotes above (1-5) and in particular the following:
-To know the Truth does not mean we believe the Truth (pg 46). We must know that we knnow that we know the Truth.
-What we believe about God is foundational to our whole belief system (pg 47). This made me really think about what I believed about God before I began these bible studies and how it relates to the way my life unfolded. I guess I subconsciously disconnected what I believed about God with what was occurring in my life. Now I see that the two go hand in hand. See the quote by Hannah Whitall Smith at the bottom of pg 49.
-If you want to know what God is really like, you need to turn to the Word of God…you need to get to know Jesus, who is the “radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being”. (pg 53 as well as Beth Moore’s definition of God’s glory in breaking Free). One needs to stay in the Word as Christine says because it’s in our nature to forget things…
-Discomfort and unrest are impossible to souls who come to know that God is their Father (pg 53). Lay your burdens down knowing that all is well – this brings such peace to me. When I feel any doubt, I thank God through it for all the blessings he has bestowed and will bestow upon me (things seen and unseen) and the doubt goes away. In fact any negative emotion – I have learned to express gratitude for whatever may be the cause of it because I know that “it’s all good”…
-Our society is conditioned to think that we should not have to live with problems – that every problem must be fixed (pg 57). The truth is, life is hard. We live in a fallen world . Instead God says, “I have a purpose for your problems. I want to use your problems to change you and to reveal My grace and pwer to the world.” So life is not about easy fixes but it’s about handling situations with God’s grace, learning the lessons from the solutions and using the lessons learned for God’s glory.
Worth repeating: “life is not about easy fixes but it’s about handling situations with God’s grace, learning the lessons from the solutions and using the lessons learned for God’s glory.” 🙂
I have made my own decisions so many times I can’t name just one but I do know that all of them have led me to God… They led me to seek him, to need him and most of all just to want him in my life and in my heart. I think if I could truely see and grasp his greatness I would never fall and I would have a strength in my heart no one but him would know. As a human always struggling in faith I don’t think I will ever truely see or grasp his greatness but I do know I will continue to learn and grow with him so I can enjoy the blessings he does give me in hopes that one day I will be worthy and strong enough that he will allow me to grasp and understand him completely.
My head agrees God loves me…. But then I find myself reading scripture that reaffirms that and I catch myself thinking “amazing He loves like that…. Must be talking about others…not me”
I’m grateful for this study because I know now I’ve believed many lies and it must stop.
There’s a lie in the movie “Pretty Woman” where she says….. But the bad things are easier to believe. I have been doing that with a very brave and confident exterior with a scared insecure interior. I pray I open my heart to all of God’s truths.
My thoughts about this week’s lesson …
A few things really popped out at me this week. The first being the lie that “God is just like my father”. This lie was revealed to me some time ago and when I learned the truth, I felt a huge weight lift from my shoulders. I forgave my earthly father for not being “perfect” in my eyes, and I sought refuge in my heavenly father during times of trial. However, I am still harboring ill feelings toward my earthly father, mainly when I’m caught in a flashback of childhood. I become anxious and angry and I know it affects my husband and children. So that led me to the second lie that “God is not really enough”. If I TRULY believed that God were enough, then I don’t think I would harbor such hatred for my earthly father at times.
It’s important to stop everyday and give thanks for God’s goodness in all the little things around us. Add all of those up and we have a good God who’s smiling and loving us. Nancy wrote, “What we believe about God is foundational to our whole belief system.” If we believe in a God who loves us through thick and thin, then our whole life has an optimistic outlook.
Nancy also said that becoming a Christian does not wrap us up in a celestial cocoon where we are immune from pain. God uses our struggles and pain to refine us “as by fire.” Jesus certainly wasn’t immune, but because he walked our walk, he can help us through that fire.
The book One Thousand Gifts by An Voskamp portrays this beautifully…have you started reading it yet?
We know when we sin, God forgives us and even forgets once we confess to Him. The problem is, we ourselves hang on to the guilt and do not forgive ourselves. This is when Satan steals your identity and convinces you you’re not worthy or you don’t “Deserve” (insert anything, such as reconciliation with your spouse, happiness, God’s love, etc). Its a hard battle Trista and one you need to fight for. You’re not fighting your past or you husband, you’re fighting an invisible war against an enemy you cant even see. Stay in bible study, surround yourself with Christian friends and let your husband continue to love you. His obedience is to God and he demonstrates this by forgiving you as Jesus forgives him. He’s a Godly man by his actions and you should never let the enemy convince you that you are not worthy of a relationship with a Godly man. If you can’t let go of unforgiveness (of yourself) get into a counseling or therapy program for a few weeks and resolve this so your heart will be healthy and free to love again. You would benefit greatly from the study Breaking Free by Beth Moore. if you dont have time to do the study with us, listen to her audio CD’s in your car. It will free you from your past and your guilt and open the door to a new and stronger marriage.
I think if I grasped the greatness of God’s love, I would realize that he is enough and not to spend so much time relying on other people or trying to control things and events in life. If I really thought that what he was doing was for his greatness and our benefit, I wouldn’t struggle so much to keep focused on him instead of allowing my time to be wasted on external influences (tv, the internet, etc). I think if I could get a sense of his goodness, that I would be calmer and more peaceful in everyday life.
I thought this week’s study was helpful but had some difficulty with some of the questions in the reader’s guide (#2, p. 27-What does it mean that you have been given “fullness” in Christ? I had difficulty answering that in the context of the scripture-Col 2: 9-10). Also it seemed as though the answers for numbers 3 and 5 on p. 28 were the same (e.g. how do god’s laws give us freedom? in what way are his restrictions a benefit and a blessing?). Not sure if anyone else had similar problems with them-
3. I feel like my self confidence and the way I treat others would be radically changed if I gave it a fresh dose of God’s goodness. For some reason I find myself struggling with social anxiety that I never struggled with this much before. From reading this book, and reading other’s comments, I am starting to realize that satan has placed those thoughts in my head. He makes me feel like everyone is watching me or judging me. He tells me I’m not good enough and that nobody wants to spend time with me. He tells me that I’m not a worthwhile friend. If I would just let God in that part of my life he would radiate through me to all my friends. If Jesus isn’t a worthwhile friend then I don’t know who is!
You might like the book “Invisible war” by Chip Ingram and Who Switched Off My Brain” by Dr Caroline Leaf. You are correct, the enemy is telling you lies and using this to weaken you. Truth is, you are a Daughter of the King and you radiate beauty.
Q3: I honestly believe I would have more of a burning desire to help others know Christ if I had a fresh view of God’s goodness. I would not be able to stop talking to people (those I know well & perfect strangers) if I truly grasped His pure goodness. I was just telling my husband the other day how I’ve “settled” for just focusing on a couple relationships where I am trying to share the gospel…although that’s ok, I know I could do so much more!
Q4: I have spent a lot of time blaming my parents, my country, my culture, my society (& well anyone else that comes to mind at the moment) on my belief that living in excess is 100% ok. Reading this chapter has challenged me to accept that I have bought into the lie that “God is not really enough.” I love Christine’s encouragement to verbalize, “Chesca, God is enough. If I have Him, I have all I need.” When I said that out loud & read the verses Nancy provided to support that truth, I felt so free! As a new mom I realize more than ever my family’s influence on my views of life & godliness. And I never realized how deeply rooted Satan has embedded this lie in my family tree. The success, the drive, the overachieving, the strong-willed women, the materalism all seemed so right for so long until my eyes were opened to the idolatry, insecurity, selfish ambition & pride we all share in my (biological/extended) family. I really believe it all goes back to the root of this lie. “Being, doing, having” somehow became more the focus than the Cross in my life. I pray to repent, with a transformed mind; I’m eager to teach my daughter the truth in God’s word & by my life’s example.
To sum up an answer to all of the questions, I would say I have learned that the many years I’ve spent struggling against what I was told was depression was really just me choosing to reject God’s goodness. I am not sure if this is a remnant of Eve’s fall, but for some reason, I have been led to believe over the course of my life that there is more comfort, safety, and even satisfaction in choosing to isolate oneself, withdraw, and feel unloved. This blatant “excusing myself” from God’s plans led to much unhappiness, but all along the way, I felt strangely as those being unhappy was easier than dealing with the challenge of persevering in faith.
For me, the perpetrating lie was — and is still, sometimes — that “God isn’t really enough.” Instead, I gave myself way too much spiritual regard in assuming that He needed me to be certain ways, or do certain things. Even with the understanding that God’s grace is unearned and a free gift, I have still based my beliefs around a God who will judge based on my performance. Like so many women have shared here, all the “extra” things like being a wife, mother, good citizen, housekeeper, cook, cleaner, etc., etc., have become a part of how I feel God sees me when in reality, He sees me and my heart for just who I am — who He created –which is actually none of those “extra” things at all.
Anyway, having a fresh look of God’s unchanging and unconditional goodness makes believing these lies impossible: they can’t both exist in our minds and hearts in their wholeness at the same time. When I see myself start to withdraw and check out because I get down on myself and feel “I’m not good enough,” I know that my faith in God’s love and goodness has waned. Choosing to reject God’s goodness when you know it’s there is a very selfish kind of faith which, unfortunately, I have learned the hard way!
Sorry about the long response!
Loved the response Molly….may you heart and mind be on fire for the Lord as you share the goodness He brings to your life.
For we walk by faith, not by sight. 2 Cor 5:7 NKJV
Direct my steps by Your word, And let no iniquity have dominion over me. Psalm 119:133 NKJV
Wow!..I am amazed at all the comments I’ve been reading. I have been thinking since yesterday of the lies about God that I have believed. I thought and thought and thought. I prayed for God to reveal to me what some of the lies were.. I kept thinking about God but all my thoughts were truths about him. Surely there must be some lies I believe..I reviewd the lies and truths and read through all the comments on this. I have been enlightened to learn that I am not alone in my thinking. Your comments have encouraged me to perservere through and so I did..I read pg 59 about the truths and lies and then my prayer had been answered. Shamefully I admitt I live my life alot of the times as though God is not enough and I have to be in control of everything..I then thought of the areas of my life this affects and the answer is of course, all areas of my life. Thats hard to admit but it is true. Through fellowship and scripture I hope to begin to realize when I live my life by that lie. Learning more about His truths and learning,to trust Him that he has a better plan and a better way. Just as He has all this in store for me, he has it for all of you too
If I truly grasped the greatness of God’s love, I believe I would find myself to be at peace and that the anxiety I feel about the future – will I be a mother, when and how will I die, will I go to Heaven – would be gone. Since beginning this study, I have felt my anxiety lessen and have found more comfort in being close to God’s word. I find that I want to read His word all day long (and not do my job, which is not so good!) I feel like I may be being called to start a new career perhaps. I’m excited about the possibilities!
I really can not top anything any one said already this week, or do I want to. As some of you know God’s goodness is one thing I have problems with….why does He still want me in His life after all the things I have done? Rebillious teen, drinking, no drugs, ran away from home, stole, awful to my mom and sister. I can not fathom why He still wants me in His life. All the lies I have believed growing up, and still do at times. I wonder if times if it is all worth it! Than I think of all God has done for me, and I pray for His love and mercy to show me the way. I feel so lost at times, and I know I can make it as long as God is on my side. Am I making any sense or just blowing off? The biggest problem I have is letting go and letting God into my life, I have for years.
Praying for you to be filed with peace that surpasses all understanding and a belief that you’ve been forgiven and that God’s already fogotten your past, so you should too 🙂
If I truly grasped God’s awesome goodness with my teen thru young adult children, I would be able to stop worry so much about whether or not I did a good job with them. How and what I could have done differently? I would know God is in control even when I’m not!!!!
This rings so true with me. God is in control and I need to step back and let my teenager go as God has everything worked out. I seem to be trapped in the lie that God is not enough. I am working on letting it go so I will pray for us both as we strive to know God in His awesome goodness is taking care of our maturing children!
This is something I have been praying about for 2 years now. It is only through this study that I have begun to realize that I am praying for my plans to work out. Now I am praying that God’s plan for my teen/young adult will work out. Now I pray that the words I choose to speak are not words of criticism about her choices, but gentle reminders that she is a child of God and words of hope and encouragement.
If you God for something, he may not answer you right away, but you must be patient. And when he does answer your prayer, be sure to think very hard before turning away from it. I once prayed for something very hard, and after a few months, I gave up on God answering it, so I moved on and my life became that much more tough. I hope to stop wondering what if once I am through with this study, and i hope to remember to be patient while waiting for God’s answers.
There were two truths in this week’s study that I have found comfort from : 1) God always has my interest at heart (Psalm 21) and 2) God has an eternal purpose He is fulfilling in the midst of my problems (Romans 5:3-4; James 1:2-4).
For a whole year now, I have been struggling with a major change that affected me a work. I’ve been angry at times with God, feeling helpless and not understanding why I’m in this situation. Being reminded that it’s not about me, that He’s doing a good work in me through this challenge, that He is fulfilling an eternal purpose while I’m in the midst of this turmoil has brought me much peace this week. I’m embarrassed about my anger and that I believed the lie that God should fix my problems.
Don’t be embarrassed when the spirit convicts you, draw near to God and wait for more opportunities to learn and grow! What a journey you’re on!! Glad we’re here to watch you grow and share your story with others…I’m certain you just encouraged someone today! 🙂
I am logging on kind of late. . I had a class to go to tonight.. Something caught my attention on the top of page 46 about if Eve had kept a diary about how she felt disappointed when God banished them from the garden and why they weren’t given another chance. My question is, If God is the God of many chances, why didn’t He give them a second chance?
The scripture that mostly stood out to me was Psalm 73:26
My flesh and my heart may fail but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever (NASB)
PAGE 28 in the workbook…1st question…what would the world be like if there were no laws? In what way are laws necessary and beneficial?
A lot of laws are dismissed, repeat offenders are put back on the street only to commit an even harsher
crime. Why is our legal system so messed up? It’s like the law doesn’t even exist….they simply just don’t care!
the 5th lie
God’s ways are too restrictive
That’s where Satan REALLY gets us! Yes some people think it’s very restrictive. Another question I have.
Why do unbelievers get all the good breaks? They continue to do things that God would frown on yet, they get the position in the workplace over someone who had been at the company for a long time. Someone steals, lies, cheats, etc—they get the big house, the nice car, clothes, —while the believer loses their home, their car, or someone spreads a bad rumor about them and they lose their job…..
I am basing some of these on life experiences…..Sometimes I just don’t understand why some people try to abide by God’s rules and get the tough breaks while others fly right under the radar.
Speaking personally, I do my best to be obedient to God and yet my life is filled with mountains and valleys to cross. God didn’t create me to sit still in a stagnant pond of water, He created me to walk those mountains and depend on Jesus. In my trials I’ve cried out to God and felt an amazing peace I could never describe. In my blessings I’ve felt an amazing joy I could never describe. My life experiences without God were depressing, fearful, and riddled with pride. My new life experiences with God are filled with the fruits of the Spirit. Because of my trials and sufferings, I am able to relate to what others are going through, see them on a path I’ve already walked upon and hopefully encourage them as God uses me for his glory.
2.How would your life be transformed if you grasped the greatness of God’s love?
My life would be transformed if I grasped the greatness of God’s love by realizing that I am responsible for my being obedient to God and that I can’t CONTROL others behavior. I’m learning that God gives all of us free will and I have to answer for the part I played in any given situation (assuming responsibility and not blaming others). In my head I know that God is in control and that nothing happens by chance but at times I jump in to save the day not realizing that I may have just circumvented the necessary action that God needed for a person to make in order for the person to Glorify HIm. Also it would allow me to show and demonstrate love more freely by not being concerned about what the response will be from someone especially if I know i’m being led by God (fear of rejection). Again, its a matter of of the knowledge I have of God, allowing it to transform me so I not only know it but live it out daily.
3.What area of your life would be different if you gave it a fresh view of God’s goodness?
My priorites would be reshifted. Right now I’m out of order in regards to where I give my attention and dedicate my time. Being Renewed was the season of life I posted about being in when I started this study and each day, God is doing a work in me to help me get back to seeking first the Kingdom of God……. I’m realizing that God has a divine order and being under His Protective umbrella you will not be led astray. Again its having the courage to TRUST and Hear, Dwell, Believe and Act on the truth of Gods Word since He tells us he is not slack on his promises..
My thoughts going through this week:
Two lies stood out for me: God’s ways are too restrictive, and God is just like my father.
I have a father who is wonderful, but very passive and lenient. This leads me to not take God as seriously as I should. Partnered with God’s “restrictive” ways, I feel justified in doing whatever I want day to day because I don’t have respect (fear) for God, and I couldn’t live up to the standards anyway. Definitely a struggle for me, but I’ve learned so much about God’s character through this study! It’s helped me understand what God asks and why, and that he’s serious about my sin.
I really liked the lie in that list that states: the illusion that wealth = blessing. I think it speaks to Tammie’s comment, some people seem to have it all, but it’s still not enough in some way – the emotional toll that living without God takes on people, really makes it difficult to enjoy what you have. I like to read the psalms that talk about the wicked prospering, but not for long.
The 2 lies that I realized that I have believed are that God is not really enough and that God should fix my problems. In the past, I have thought that God ways were too restrictive. I think it is very sneaky how Satan can be so subtle in deceiving us. It has truly been an eye opener.
If I just let go and let God, I would be able to see how great he is. A lot of the time I am always coming up w/ plan b, c, d and so on when my plan should really be trust God and know that he will make a way. I know that I can’t just sit like a bump on a log….faith w/o works is dead. However, I need allow God to guide me.
I believed a whole lotta lies! God is too restrictive, weight of my sins on my back, I’m not a “real Christian” unless I’m suffering, there’s more than one right way…etc. Two weeks of study hasn’t completely changed my mind on these things either. I wonder if anyone else feels like the internal war is raging.
As far as an area of my life being different with a fresh view of God’s goodness…hmmm I would say my prayer life would be different. If I behaved like God was one of my best friends I would spend more time with Him, listening more and talking less, and I probably wouldn’t fall asleep in the middle of our conversations either.
You might enjoy the book “Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World” by Joanna Weaver. In her book I learned to spend more time sitting at the feet of Jesus and making room for him in my busy life.
1. I remember the exact moment I rejected the goodness of God, or at least led to my rejection. I grew up in a small rural town and was raised in the Catholic Church. I was a teenager and I remember two or three boys my age were arrested for beating up a man. During mass our priest openly condemned the beaten man and defended the boys (who’s families attended the church) who attacked him. I remember the priest blaming the man because he was known to be under the influence of alcohol and I think he may have been homeless, or next to. I could not believe that a priest , who I was taught had a direct line to God, would lack any compassion for the man, let alone dismiss the behavior of these teen hooligans (who I have knew since grade school). I thought “Whoa, is this how we are supposed to think and act toward others? If so, this isn’t the place for me.” The problem turned out to be that the priest is a fallible human being and God is God, they are not synonymous or even close to being on an equal playing field. It took me years to realize and understand that God grieved for that man and He grieved for those boys. God is good! God is great! God loves that man, loves those teenagers, and even loves that priest that apparently had some personal issues. This one event shook me and pushed me away from the church and from God. Actually, I see this as a great thing, because not only did I returned to God, but I have been transformed. I have gained so much from this season. God blessed me, even when I was not walking hand-in-hand with him.
4. My thoughts this week were mainly focused on the lie that “God is just like my father.” Looking back, I think I had a pretty great childhood. However, looking more closely I realize that my dad has never been good at giving praise. In fact, just about everything that comes out his mouth is sarcastic and cynical. Often I can’t figure out if he’s joking or serious or worse yet, what he’s talking about. Seriously, he talks in code sometimes – my mom and I look at each other and try to piece his communication together. “What is it that you are trying to tell me?” Usually though, what is being said is some sort of criticism or nasty remark that I could live without. I realize that my parents sort of feed off of each other in this regard. Sort of like the good cop/bad cop idea. I think that I attribute their way of communicating with how I think God should communicate to me. I know in my head that God does not think or behave like my dad, but sometimes it seems like I forget. I only want God to know about important things or things that make me look really smart or funny or successful, etc. When I get to feeling like this I slow down and/or stop and realize that God loved me when I was a wretch. God loved me when I turned my back on Him. If He loved me during those ugly times, then why wouldn’t He always love me. I know the truth, He loves me and I don’t have to perform for Him.
You said “God blessed me, even when I was not walking hand-in-hand with him. ” You’ve inspired me to go back into my life and see where I was blessed when I only saw myself in darkness. I need to rewrite my emotional past and instead of looking for the bad events, dig deep and find those events that bring glory to God. I’ve got homework to do! Thank you. 🙂
I have been giving a lot of thought to a similar situation recently with regards to raising children. Thanks for the reminder to keep perservering, as EVERYTHING they hear is important, along with the spirit in which it was said! 🙂
In looking at the list of lies above I am shocked how many of these I believe or have believed. I am excited and scared for God to do a mighty work in my life. It will be a relief to be able to finally be open to fully receive what he has for me. As I have grown over the years in getting to know Him more the more I like the person I am becoming and I am relieved to be leaving the old me behind. That is sometimes slow work and feels at times like a stand still but the reality of that is it took me a life time to get where I am. When I look at the changes that have already taken place and how short that time really has been it is amazing and only God can make that happen. Thank you for this study please give me lots of prayer that I am filled with God’s courage and complete all of the work.
If I (or anyone!) really grasped the greatness of God’s love, I would be a new being! I would truly be like Christ in my daily life – which is the goal for all Christians. Daily my prayer has been to be Chirst’s light to others, in order to draw others to him by my example. I work on it all the time! It’s so easy to fall into gossiping, have rude/mean thoughts about others, let greed take over, etc. But I just keep on asking for forgiveness and try to do better!
Heather, I have been reading Battlefield of the mind and it has to be a concious action about our thoughts. I found that very interesting but I have been trying to have positive thoughts and it is not easy but I do believe that God will help us with that..
You might want to read “Who Switched Off My Brain” by Dr. Caroline Leaf she explains how the enemy clogs out thinking and how you can filter out thoughts in as little as 24 hours.
I am playing catch up right now and I meant to post this comment for this week but accidentally posted it for last weeks lesson as well oops please forgive me.
One thing that stuck out for me this week in chapter 2 was a quote I read from Hannah Whitall Smith:
” Everything in your spiritual life depends on the sort of God you worship. Because the character of the worshipper will always be molded by the character of what he worships: If it is a cruel and revengeful God the worshiper will be the same, but if it is a loving, tender,forgiving,unselfish God, the worshiper will be transformed slowly, wonderfully, into this likeness. I absolutely believe this.
Some things are worth repeating 😉
I just want to say that these questions are so hard, but it is really making me think 🙂
If I could switch my way of getting up in the morning… I would like to put my feet on the ground with God as my first thought. usually I am running and yelling times out so my girls will get ready for school and in the truck to go. Very crazy mornings for me… I want to get up ealier and have a cup of coffee with my bible before the girls are up instead of finding odd times of the day to do my bible or study time. I know it would make a BIG difference in my day.
If I grasped the greatness of Gods love I beleive their would more calm to my life, and a great witness to God. I have been looking for more peace and calm in my life.
You can do it Nickie. Start one day at a time, set the alarm 30 minutes before the kids get up, and enjoy those moments of peace. After you do this for a few days, you start to crave it and realize how your day is now centered on God and not people or things. During the course of the day, you might even see your bible study come to life as you see things and think of the morning study. Morning bible study isn’t about being a perfect woman. It’s about being a Daughter of the King and giving him the first 30 minutes of your day. Priceless!
@ Nickie Fuller
That sounds just like my mornings except I have a boy and a girl. I would love to get up early but most days Im left so exhausted that I cant get up so I can sympathize with you.
I will pray for you 🙂
thank you Bee. I understand the exhausted part, but I want God to have the glory. I do think he will give me/us what we need. I will also pray with you 🙂
How would your life be transformed if you grasped the greatness of Gods love?
I believe I would live with a lot less anxiety, worry and stress. I know that God loves me, He tells me everyday. But I am not sure that I can fathom the greatness of that love. But I am working on it. 🙂
1 John 3 How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God.
The more I read the more I like this book!
I have always believed that I am worthless and If anyone “really” knew me, they would see how dirty I am and wouldn’t want to be my friend. Now I know that isn’t true any longer, but I do still struggle with feeling worthless. The part about “I can’t help the way I am” I think was written specifically for me!! I used to use that line all the time. Now I have come to know that I am responsible for my own actions. I am struggling with having unfulfilled longings. I am bitter and need to get over it! I long to be healed of this chronic and progressive disease I have battled against for over 10 years. I didn’t see mentioned in the book about longing for good health…. still I know I need to put my desire aside and wait on God.
If I I truly grasped the greatness of God, I would be a totally transformed woman. I don’t even know what that would be like. I want that though…..
You not worthless…you are a Daughter of the King and need to live like royalty. 🙂 You are loved.
4. I realized that “God is not enough…” is one of the lies that I need to work on. I’m graduating college soon(ish) and thinking about Grad school and jobs and bills and everything, and THAT is what I am focusing on NEEDING. I honestly haven’t been giving much thought about how much I need God in my life and how to improve that. It really opened my eyes.
Perfectly timed bible study then!
I believe the lie that I bought into is that I am not worthy enough for someone to want to be around me. I also struggle with sitting here and putting my thought out here for others to see. I lived all but the last 10 years not know my Savior.I still struggle with am I worthy of God’s love. but as I read Psalms 139 is i
see that God loved me completely with his whole heart and put me together the way He wanted me.
I have no doubt that God love me, I just have doubt as to weather I am worthy of that God’s love. I really
like this study. I believe I am going to find answers to alot of my questions
You are worthy. Who benefits when you don’t share your thoughts and speak your mind…Satan. Of course he wants to muzzle you with insecurity and fear…keeping you from sharing your heart. We give in to the temptation, listen to the lies and we create thought patterns and lifestyle patterns based on who WE ARE NOT. Truth is Joanna…you are loved by God, forgiven for your past, and He wants a relationship with you. Intimacy with God your Father is something you are entitled to…don’t let the enemy steal this from you by whispering “not worthy.” You are loved and you are worthy…now put your royal crown back on and remember that your Daddy is God and He loves his children so very, very much.
I think part of the anger I have experienced most of my life was made worse because my family always said things like “she is just high strung” or “temper just runs in our family”. It wasn’t until I was middle aged and sought medical advice for sleelessness did I find out I had major depression that had been manifesting itself in anger! Once I got my brain chemicals back in balance, the sleeplessness, other symptoms and my anger resolved themselves. If I had not just accepted some of my problems as “just the way I am” I would have had a much more peaceful and satisfied as would my poor daughter! I have learned alot about myself since then, and have learned that nothing should ever be taken so lightly as to think you cannot change for the better.
I was very shocked with this chapter when i realized how much i have rejected God’s goodness in my life (taken it for granted, more than consciously rejecting it). I pray to really comprehend and understand how much of God’s Goodness is all around me- to pay attention, not just go through day to day, making my own decisions, “praying”, but, yet, not completely trusting and turning over situations to Him. I love the verse in this chapter:
Ephesians 3:17-19
“that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height- to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.
This is my prayer- This world engulfs us if we let it, and my prayer is to think of God and His Goodness- His plan and purpose as much as i can each day- You have to take the time to read, listen comprehend His Goodness and Perfection.
Isn’t this study great! It’s something we need to hear and be aware of…so we can recognize lies when they look tempting.
1.Nancy says “Once we reject the goodness of God, we feel justified in rejecting His will and making our own decision about right or wrong.” Has there ever been a time in your life when you rejected the goodness of God? What happened?
Most definately. many many times. Especially about forgiving myself. My children moved in with their father after we split up. My ex husband bad mouthed me to our children and basically did all he could to create a chasim between us. I had begun to date a man who paid attention to me (finally), he literally swept me off my feet. But because this man was filling a huge void in my life I began to compromise where his actions were concerned. He was doing drugs and I made excuses for him, so my children left our home to live with dad. This devastated me. I had been a mom since I was 17 yrs old and that was who I was. My children were everything to me. I can’t explain how I allowed things to turn out this way except that it seemed that I was very deceived. At that point I had no reason to live and went into a deep depression – using drugs to cover the pain. This guilt and hurt tormented me for 4 years. I was unable to forgive myself and what I had allowed to happen. I did not receive God’s forgiveness for my actions until 2006. I did not believe that I was fit to have God’s goodness in my life.
Thank God that God never gave up on me. My spiritual mother helped me to see that God DID LOVE ME and I did deserve His Love. Since then, God has redeemed the time, restored my relationships with both my daughters and I have forgiven myself but the devil still tries me! I have many regrets but I try to take things one day at a time knowing that God wants me completely healed and made whole. There was alot of damage done but God has used this horrid episode in my life to help other women. He has allowed me to minister to women in jail, drug addicts and the homeless. My message is that God loves you!! Run don’t walk back into His Arms!!
Thank Heaven you found a spiritual mother who led you back to God and to the truth. Never let Satan rob you of your identity again. Claim your crown as a Daughter of the King.
Have you heard of the bible study “Surrendering the Secret?” It’s a healing study on recovery and forgiving yourself.
http://www.surrenderingthesecret.com/
I’ve thought about leading this at the Bible Café, I would need to lead it “offline” to protect everyone’s privacy. Please pray over this and ask God to guide me about leading the study, thank you.
This week it was revealed(as I prayed God would reveal) lies that I did not know I believed. When I first read lie #7, I thought oh, that doesn’t apply to me. Then I read the first testimony of the women feeling inferior. That’s me. I tend to feel inferior in relationships questioning why the guy would want me and thinking to myself he could do better – the lie. I would then overcompensate using outward appearance and sexuality. The Truth is God chose me and I am worthy.
Bianca thanks for having the courage to share. What you described has been my style for years with men. Just because I knew better it didn’t make me do better. I only recently learned that it came from a feeling of inferiority. God’s acceptance and love for us is overwhelming!
I remember when I was in a Christian relationship that was dysfunctional for 6 years and I wanted to be married which was my plans not God’s plan. It wasn’t going anywhere and it was big weight around my neck (sin). God finally got my attention and told me you are suffering needlessly and this is not a godly relationship, you need to end this. So I did and ended up in a Singles’ Bible Study and had a lot of great friends then after a couple of years eventually met my husband and we have been married for 22.5 years.
I would have total trust and faith in Christ in every situation because he loves me unconditionally and has my best interests at heart. No more anxiety, stress, emotional eating, etc. but have the peace of God in knowing that he is in control of my life.
I would be a God pleaser instead of a people pleaser.
Awesome chapter…on the last paragraph of page 58 – We want God to fix all our problems. God says instead, “I have a purpose for your problems. I want to use your problems to change you and to reveal My grace and power to the world.” That is the Truth–and theTruth will set you free. Also, the Countering Lies with the Truth table on page 59.
#2…I think I would probably not feel like I have nothing left to give. I think life just gets so hectic, and as a wife and mother, there are so many needs to meet. Sometimes I feel like I am just empty, I can’t pour out love or help to others because my well has run dry. But if I was gripped by God’s love, I would be very different. Not that we don’t all need a break sometime, but experiencing the fullness of His love would keep me going when I feel like I have nothing left. And I know I would also have greater joy. That is my prayer this week that we would all know the fullness of God’s love for us.
There we quite a few lies I identified with in Chapter 2 that if asked I would say “of course that’s a lie!” but when looking at my life I realize I’m not necessarily living that way. In particular, God is enough. I KNOW God is enough (in fact He is MORE than enough) but am I really living like it? Or am I living out “sure i need God, but I need Him plus…” If I lost my job, all my money, my family/friends, and my health would I still be able to say “God alone is enough for me”? Do I have the faith and strength of Job? I hope so (but would prefer God doesn’t test me on this one –lol).
2.How would your life be transformed if you grasped the greatness of God’s love?
My life would be transformed as I would stop living out my own plans and totally embrace living and being in God’s will as it relates to my family, my schedule, and career choices.
Thank you God, for reminded me this week that you have a purpose for my problem. Amen!!!
Has there ever been a time when I rejected the goodness of God & what happened?
In ’91 we lost my mother-in-law to cancer & our family wanted to live in the old family home. We prayed & clearly heard “no” from the Lord – yet – went on with our plans. That decision caused a ripple effect of a tsunami magnitude and although I have had some wonderful times with the Lord through these many years, the loss & devastation have taken their tole. I thank God that He has never let go of me, even though I clearly wanted my way & pushed Him away. And I am thankful that I am at a new place of revelation for other lies that I am going to overcome through His grace & mercy!!
I just received my book, so I am trying to catch up with everyone. I have just started on Chapter 2 and surprised to learn that yes I have believed a lot of these lies. But thru the Word of God I am attempting to reverse these lies into truths. I am also repenting of somethings that are currently going on in my life because of these hidden lies.
I have always been a very shy and withdrawen person since I can remember. I have fallen for the lie that i will always be that way but in answering one of Nancy’s question I applied it to myself. I will no longer be a shy and withdrawn person afraid to say anything. I have taken the control away from Satan and as I have always know God controls everything i just have to listen when he speaks. As of today I will be waiting to hear from the Lord. I will reach out to other to encourage them . I will not believe the lie that I can’t change.
For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. 2 Tim 1:7 NIV
Amen!
After reading the chapter I found that I do not live my life like I believe God is good, God loves me and has a purpose for my problems. I’ve been telling myself the truth throughout this past week and feel like it is sinking in some to my heart.
2.How would your life be transformed if you grasped the greatness of God’s love? I wouldn’t have to second guess what I do and constantly worry about what people think of me. I wouldn’t have to be so insecure. God is love and he loves me, it has nothing to do with me, and so I do not have to stress over loosing his love. His love is unconditional. That is so good to know!
Great Maureen! Now you can replace this with the truth and remind yourself of God’s goodness.
Nancy says “Once we reject the goodness of God, we feel justified in rejecting His will and making our own decision about right or wrong.” Has there ever been a time in your life when you rejected the goodness of God? What happened?
I think this question is pretty wide ranged for me. I have justified so many decisions I have made in my life because things just were not working out like we planned. My husband being out of work for a year. I didn’t feel God’s goodness but see why he did what he did today. I (we) have made a lot of money decisions without God from purchases to just keeping afloat…
How would your life be transformed if you grasped the greatness of God’s love?
Patience is the first word that comes to mind. We need to wait for him to see his greatness.
What area of your life would be different if you gave it a fresh view of God’s goodness?
By looking at how richly blessed we are! Especially knowing God is there no matter what!! It is not all about money!
Share your thoughts about this week’s lesson.
That I had a revelation of what my personal goal is….I want to wake up every morning & ask God how I can serve others. Instead of waking up & wondering how I am going to make money today (or we)…
My husband & I are starting “Financial University” in two weeks at our church. I know it is going to be powerful because I had to “sell” my husband on the idea & had to get others to talk to him to go!! My husband was being fed a lie & I saw it….
I think I can answer both of these questions with the one answer.
2.How would your life be transformed if you grasped the greatness of God’s love?
3.What area of your life would be different if you gave it a fresh view of God’s goodness?
I believe my confidence in myself and my own abilities would change dramatically instead of being knocked by what those around me might think of me and what I am doing.
2. I think I would be more willing to accept what happens every day. God loves me enough to guide me every step of the way. He wants to take care of me. We always want things on our terms and if I just “let go” and accepted where God was taking me I think I could be more at peace in certain areas of my life. I do feel myself letting go some but it is hard to do sometimes.
4. I loved the section on self esteem. That really spoke to me and was an eye opener. I have never heard it explained the way Nancy explained it. Really makes sense and is really something for us all to reflect on as women.
2. I need to be more willing to accept where I am in life as far as school and our finances. There is a reason I am suppose to go back to school at a particular expensive baptist college and I need to accept that after many prayers I am where God intends me to be.
If you’re close to God through this, then you’re where He wants to be. If you find yourself drawing away then he may be convicting you that you’re in the wrong place. Pray for conviction on this and ask God to make it perfectly clear where He wants you.
2. How would your life be transformed if you grasped the greatness of God’s love?
This study is truly opening my eyes to the power of God’s love for me. I can see myself already starting to rethink some lies that I have been telling myself or lies that people have been telling me to keep me down or to make themselves feel better. I need to become comfortable in my skin and in God’s love. As someone who didn’t attend church growing up, my original reason for attending church was so that my kids would have the religious background that I don’t have. I have tried and failed to do a yearlong devotional study, but this study is making me use my bible more.
4. Share your thoughts about this week’s lesson. What I enjoy about this week was on page 59 where it as countering lies with the truth. It was refreshing to go to a page where it displayed the myth and truths. It also showed you where to read about the truth. I have been enjoying reading the book.
I definitely feel that if I stayed focused on God’s goodness, I’d be less inclined to worry about my daughter and the future.
I believe the area of my life that would be different if I gave it a fresh view of God’s goodness would be related to worrying and thinking I can take care of everything. I hadn’t realized that Lies #4 (God is not really enough) and #6 (God should fix my problems) were strongly impacting my life before reading this chapter. I definitely need to stay in prayer about those two even though I know The Truths. I, too, am thankful for page 59. I will refer back to it often.