Growing in Grace

I've just started my women's Bible study for the new year. The study is called The Power of the Gospel, Paul's Letters to the Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians . It was written by Trudy Ries and Karen Scotti and is published by Calvary Chapel Pasadena.  I'm so glad to be back in study and blessed to be with the same group of ladies I've gotten to know over the past two years. I think God knew I needed the familiarity this year to be able to share the struggles of my heart. So here's a summary of our first week's study from Galatians chapter 1. . .  "The gospel not only has the power to save a life, but it has the power to transform, liberate, and provide stability for those who embrace it." (TPotG) This book includes Paul's letters to the churches in Galatia. Max Lucado writes that "the book of Galatians is the Emancipation Proclamation for the church. . .It defines Christian liberty. Paul wrote it to combat tho

Just as a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him. -Psalm 103:13 Sally Clarkson writes, "Only the grace and love that God gives freely through his merciful nature can provide us with that which we long for: peace and joy." (p. 167) When we intentionally ask God to open our eyes to His provision of joy, we will begin to notice even the smallest, everyday things as God's gift. (p. 171) When we feel overwhelmed by our circumstances, we need to pray. Whatever the need, we need to give it to Him. "By focusing on the transcendence of God, his power, presence, and character, (we) put the problems of life in their proper place." (p. 172) Too often we hold onto the burdens of life instead of the hand of our heavenly Father. This robs us of our joy. By allowing God to handle our burdens, we can experience a peaceful soul. Jesus was in demand by so many, yet He always made time for prayer and to build relationships