Living Free - Aug. 21, 2012
A Step of Obedience
Today's Scripture
"Jesus replied, 'But even more blessed are all who hear the word of God and put it into practice." Luke 11:28 NLT
Thoughts for Today
Tammy continues her testimony: "When I first made a commitment to serve Jesus, I promised to read the Bible and attend church once a week. My intention was to read scripture with an analytical eye, but soon the words came to life and penetrated my heart. I was confronted with God's love and his call to obedience. Though I tried, I could not make the Bible say what I wanted it to say. I prayed, 'OK, God, I still feel like a homosexual. I don't know how to follow you in obedience. But even with my questions and my confusion, I'll leave it all."
"When I first came to Christ, I was obstinate and resistant to God's will. But his grace stood patiently, hands extended in mercy and arms open wide in love. Now, with his help, I was ready to take a very difficult step of obedience.
That evening I ended the relationship I was in. My partner responded to my declaration by saying, 'You can't get out of this; no one ever gets out.' Her words seemed like the words of a drug dealer, not a friend.
'Help me, God,' I prayed. And he did."
Consider this …
Tammy couldn't experience the power of God's Word until she moved beyond reading it to living it. Then God gave her the strength to make some very difficult choices to walk in obedience.
Are you struggling with a problem, doing some things you know you shouldn't, but just aren't strong enough to do what you know is right? Ask God to make his Word real to you. And determine in your heart that you will obey him. Once you make that choice and run to him, you will experience his love, his grace and his power in an all new way.
Father, please forgive me for disobeying you. I thank you for your love and grace. Help me to make right choices. Help me to not just read the Bible, but to obey it. In Jesus' name …
These thoughts were drawn from …
Lessons Learned: Moving from Homosexuality to Holiness by Tammy Webb-Witholt. This group study offers biblical tools, along with an abundance of hope, to anyone struggling with homosexuality. It is also a great group for anyone desiring a deeper walk with God. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups, and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study.
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