So this week I began another highly anticipated online Bible study through Proverbs 31 Ministries. This study is with Renee Swope's book "A Confident Heart." To know me from the outside would probably cause you to wonder why on earth would I feel the need for this study, but when you peel back my layers, it all becomes pretty clear. I have a myriad of issues that I am still working through, but thankfully I am not working through them alone.
In Chapter 2, Renee brings us back to the day at the well when Jesus spoke to a Samaritan woman who approached the well alone at noon to draw water. I can so fully relate to this woman at the well. So many times in my life I approached Jesus alone, unsure and with little more than an empty vessel hoping somehow I could fill it on my own and not daring to ask Jesus for help because of my own shame. My past is also not terribly pretty.
What struck me as I read the Biblical account this time was how Jesus shared with Sam in such a way that she knew that He knew everything about her already. He spoke with her knowing full well that her past was far from pretty and in fact that her present was pretty rough as well. He was accepting of her as she was at that very moment and willing to spend time with her and offer her so much more than she had ever imagined. Her emptiness would be filled with what she needed. For the first time, true love and true acceptance from the living God were going to take place of the loneliness and the unloveliness that had seized Sam's heart and brought her to so many bad and sad choices.
Sam was struck by Jesus knowing all about her. It changed her perspective. It changed her so much that really she simply HAD to share about him with the people in her village. Because of that, Jesus stayed on for two more days, and many more became believers. It all started with Sam.
Who knows what will start with me?
Great post. LOVE that it all started with Sam. God knows exactly what will start with you. He is ready to use you right where you are. Thanks for sharing your heart.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for stopping by Cathy. I was so busy the night before, I almost forgot to blog. What a blessing it was having a visit from you!
DeleteOh, I love this... we are all ripples in a pond. Who knows what will hapen when we all join together! Reminds me of that song... not sure of the name... It starts with me. Thank you for sharing!
ReplyDeleteLauren, P31 OBS Blog hop team
Thank you Lauren. I'm starting to think about my place in a lot of things lately. Thank you so much for stopping by!
DeleteKelly, as I read your intro, I couldn't help but think of Shrek-Onions have layers! :-) Oh wow, how we have layers and layers of issues. Your reflection on the testimony of Sam is awesome. To know that putting our faith in the Lord and having a confident heart in him will transform us...such a blessing. He will bring healing to our "myriad of issues." Amen!
ReplyDeleteAmen Mary! When I look back, I am amazed on the layers, he has already helped me rid myself of. :) Thank you so much for stopping by.
DeleteI love how you said "It all started with Sam. Who knows what will start with me?" So good and so true! As we surrender and choose to be filled by the unconditional #perfectlove of Christ our lives will pour out onto those around us. Blessings to you today Kelly! :) Love ~Shelly (OBS Blog Hop Coordinator)
ReplyDeleteThank you Shelly. I never really thought before about how we can all be used. Looking at how Sam really had a big part in reaching this village is amazing. Who knows how things would have worked out if Jesus had approached someone who had it all together. Of course, God knew. :) Thank you for stopping by!
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