Praying God’s promises — it’s changed me.
That’s why I included a prayer, at the end of each chapter, weaving together Scriptures from that chapter and others I sensed God wanted us to engrave on our hearts.
“Praying God’s Word has been one of the most life-changing ways I’ve learned to live in the security of His promises…and isn’t that what we all want?
“One way God tells us that confidence will come is when we ask Him for what is already part of His will. ‘This is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us’ (1 John 5:14 NASB). So there you go: we can be confident we are praying God’s will when we pray God’s Word!” p.25
But that’s not all.
Romans 10:17 tells us that “faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ” so let’s pray these promises out loud again and again.
Out loud. Yes, even if it seems weird. Find somewhere you can be alone to speak these truths where you can hear them, and let them echo in your heart
Trust me, it makes a difference.
“When we pray God’s words out loud, and hear them, the Holy Spirit engraves them on our hearts and writes them in our thoughts. We internalize God’s truth and our faith grows as we are transformed from the inside out!” p.25
Let’s pray this week’s prayer {together}:
Lord, I pray that You would give me a confident heart in Christ. Take me beyond believing in You to truly believing You. Help me rely on the power of Your promises and live like they are true. You say blessed is the one who trusts in You and whose hope and confidence are found in You. Those who hope in You will not be disappointed, because You work all things together for good for those who love You and are called according to Your purpose.
When self-doubt tells me I can’t overcome my insecurities, I will believe Your promise that all things are possible to whoever believes. I will not throw away my confidence, because You say it will be richly rewarded. I will persevere so that when I have done the will of God, I will receive what You have promised. My confidence is in Christ and I am no longer one who shrinks back and is destroyed, but one who believes and is saved! In Jesus’ name, Amen. {See Jeremiah 17:7; Isaiah 49:23; Romans 8:28; Mark 9:23; Hebrews 10:35–36, 39}
_____________________
{Special Gift & GiveAway}
Chad Lawson, my friend, award-winning composer and pianist , has graciously shared his beautiful, Spirit-filled Song of Prayer below. Watch and listen below for FREE. {If you’re reading this via email please click here to visit my website to watch}.Friend, you don’t want to miss this – trust me.
Even though it will probably be hard at first, please pause to soak in this God-gift that was filmed while Chad listened to the Holy Spirit. Chad simply played what God laid on his heart. You’ll see the joy of Christ in Chad’s smile but more than anything, you’ll experience the peace of God’s presence through his music.
You can find and download A Song of Prayer on Itunes ($1.99) or Amazon ($.89)
{Today’s Give-Away}
3 Special Order Song of Prayer CDs
To enter to win one: Click “share your thoughts” below this post and describe how you felt or what you sensed God whisper as you listened to Chad’s Song of Prayer. Also share one or two of your answers to questions you feel comfortable sharing about from the end of Chapter 1.
Remember, if you’re reading this via email please click here to visit my website and participate. All entries must be put in the “share your thoughts” section.
What a blessing to hear this beautiful “Song Of Prayer” by Chad Lawson – I can only imagine how he felt playing this tune for our King- and the holy spirit just flowing through him for us to hear this angelic, peaceful, loving tune. I felt an extreme peace while listening to this, and a deep, deep feeling of being soothed by our Lord and Savior- as if he was trying to speak to me through this beautiful melody, letting me know everything will be okay-that He will always be there for me, He will never leave me. I felt joy in my heart-what a wonderful feeling. This is our Lord’s lullaby to us.
Chapter 1 question 3
Describe how it makes you feel when doubt whispers:
“I can’t do this” (I’m a Loser)
“My life isn’t going to get better” (Like Giving Up)
“It’s too hard” ( Just quit now )
“I might as well quit” (feel like walking away from life)
Chapter 1 question 4
Describle what happens in your heart when you read God’s words:
“Those who hope in me will not be disappointed” Isa.49:23
( I HAVE A CHANCE)
“See, I am doing a new thing!” Isa 43:19
(SOMETHING GOOD IS GOING TO COME FROM THIS)
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Rom 8:28
(GOD HAS A PLAN FOR ME)
“All things are possible to those who believe” Mark 9:23
(I NEED TO BELIEVE IN HIM AND IN MYSELF)
Chapter 1 question 5
What do you think hinders you most from living with God-confidence on a consistent basis?
(being judged by others, being hurt again, lack of trust)
These are the questions that reached out to me the most.
Renee I hope & pray for good results of Aster’s MRI.
Aloha from Hawaii xoxoxoxo!
Chad’s music is beyond words, and I felt everything. I think God’s presence is so strong in this beautiful beyond words musical conversation that it weaves into your being as you listen and begins to move through out everything that you are….I felt conviction for short coming and my sins of this day, and yet it was as if love was poured over this sins, slow like syrup. I felt warm sunshine and soft rain, all mixed together, I felt an urgency, and yet a peace, walking together; and I felt new young sunshine in early spring, warming my face, urging me to look heavenward…… I felt God and I felt loved. It was a beautiful beautiful way to end my day, as if God, my Father, rocked me to sleep in his embrace. Thank you.
Chad Lawson is amazing! I had the most awesome prayer time while listening to his music! Wow! I didn’t even answer the phone when my husband called because I did not want to be interrupted during such a beautiful time of worship! Thank you for sharing! Does the cd have more than just that one song? I want it!
As i sit here reading chapter 2, i have to ask myself the question have i let the gospel of God’s grace move from my head to my heart. No because i doubted that God loved me because of the hurt and pain. But i can truly say now that i am completely loved by God as the tears roll down my face
This has been a rough couple days, yesterday we went through some of my mom’s things. This was pretty emotional for everyone, she went home to heaven a few months ago. I miss her a lot! Today was stressful at work, trying to backtrack to figure out what a former consultant for the firm did a year and a half ago is tricky at best. But as I listened to Chad’s song a sense of peace slowly enveloped me. I was able to close my eyes, listen and relax, after a while I began to think a little clearer and thought about an aspect of the problem at work that hadn’t previously occurred to me. The Lord is so good the way he uses music to calm the mind and soul so that we can connect with him and hear his gentle prompting. Feeling blessed right now, thank you for sharing this song it is beautiful.
Diane, I really can’t imagine the thought of losing a mother… but please know that I’ll be praying for you. I know death isn’t always easy, and tears will come… but be encouraged by this. I lost my grandma about 2 months ago, the first time I’ve ever lost anyone close to me, and it was hard. But since that has happened, my parents both have going back to church after 10 years of not going anywhere… which is an answered prayer. Out of every bad situation… God can and will bring good things out from it. Praying for God just to outpour his love and peace and joy to your heart during this time in your life. God will help you through it! I’m here if you ever need to talk…
As I was listening to that Song of Prayer… I could just feel the presence of God and the tears would just start pouring. It was like I could sense Jesus whispering sweet peace to my heart and soul. Such a soothing sound, and just so peaceful.
Chapter 1 : Question # 5 – I wrote that I truly believe my feelings on those bad or sad days is what hinders me the most from living with God confidence. Feelings on those days were I’m tired, weary in body, sick, or just had a bad day at work tries to make me doubt my confidence in God. Emotions/Feelings are a big hinder to confidence in God. I’ll be honest with you, this season in my life right now all the promises listed under # 4 speak right to my heart. I’m currently in a season in my life where God has given me a promise a long time ago, 3 years ago; but I am still waiting on that promise to happen. I know it’s coming, and its coming soon! I believe and am placing my hope in God for he is doing a new things! I’m called and chosen, I am his beloved.
Chapter 1: Question #6 – I wrote, “I would describe a woman that has confident hearts as a woman who faces many trials and rough experiences in life; but has seen that God has been faithful every time. When doubt tries to creep in her mind to whisper, she discerns and stops and rebukes those thoughts right then and there, casting down imaginations, and doesn’t think about it again. She trust in God, and knows he will do exactly what he says he will. She is strong, and is a role-model. She not only believes in the God who saved her, but knows and believes and stands on His Word. She uses the Word when battles come, she fights all her battles on her knees. She prays, and seeks God’s face. Strong in faith, because she is taking time to hear from God in his Word.
“Describe how you felt or what you sensed God whisper as you listened to Chad’s Song of Prayer.”
Absolutely beautiful music. I felt a sense of serenity, peace and calm. And a Bible passage came to mind:
“The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.”
–Zephaniah 3:17
Then I wondered, “What song does the Lord sing over me?” Then an answer came to light…another verse:
“But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.”
–1 Peter 1:15-16
Then I imagined His singing over me as an impartation of His character, empowering me to be and do all that He calls me to each day.
————————————–
Also share one or two of your answers to questions you feel comfortable sharing about from the end of Chapter 1.
3. Describe how it makes you feel when doubt whispers: “I can’t do this.” “Things will never change.” “My life isn’t going to get better.” “It’s too hard.” “I might as well quit.”
–These things make me feel hopeless and foolish.
4. Describe what happens in your heart when you read God’s words:
–These words encourage, comfort, energize and excite my heart with hopeful anticipation to see what God will do.
thank you for sharing the verses the Lord shared with you. Zephaniah 3:17 :-). It’s humbling and encouraging that the LORD ALMIGHTY would sing over me! I love how you then connected that to 1 Peter. “I imagined His singing over me as an impartation of His character, empowering me to be and do all that He calls me to each day.” I love that image and most of all the truth behind it. I’m going to try to visualize this each morning or even during the day when I feel like a failure. He IS with me. He has given us HIS character, and HE was NOT anxious, fearful or doubtful! AMen!
Thank you and God bless you!
Beautiful! A peace came over me while I listened, a peace that passes all understanding. Thanks for sharing your talent Chad.
wow lots of great comments! It is so good that all of us share the same struggles. i loved the music! peaceful and calm and i have trouble sleeping so this really helps! Renee, i just got your correction e-mail that you sent the video of throwing away your confidence twice. Jesus wanted me to hear that video again, i was dwelling on how my dad’s girlfriend really hurt my feelings yesterday, and for as long as I’ve known her, she has always hurt my feelings. she has a very transparent personality, she can be nice one minute, really nasty the next. Yet, I know she’s this way, and I still let it bother me. I was so angry at myself that I let her bother me so much, and when I was reading the comments, I read one from someone who said, since, she’s started this study, she hasn’t let what people say and do hurt her feelings, when i read this, I felt ashamed of being so weak. I have a long way to go to have a confident heart! but I am really determined and god will help me! just reading the comments is overwhellming, as I’m reading, as we are all encourageing each other, I really sense god speak to my heart as I’m reading the comments, and I’m forced to be honest with myself, when I read the comments, i find so many women have the same struggles and fears that I have, some I’ve even forgotten about because I have been hiding them, and now, in this study, god is challening me to be honest with myself and with him! So, renee thank you! for this study! I’m not able to read the chapters, as I’ve explianed in earlier posts, i am blind and have this amazing computer with speech program, that reads everything on the screnn and does almost everything a regular computer does, except for a couple of things, when there are too many graphics on a web site or e-mail, the speech software won’t read the text, and I found when I tried to download the book, it isn’t a word file, and i thought my program didn’t like p.d.f. files, now, this week, my computer teacher informs me that my program can read p.d.f. files, so, she gave me some instructions to use some key stroke commands, but you know, i’m still really able to participate in this study a lot. Renee, a lot of the women talk about what their favourite pages in chapters are, so, i feel like I know a lot of the book. I get your e-mails. I listen to your videos. I read the comments, and am able to put comments, however, I still hope I can dowload the book, I hope there is another change to have this for free, I’m going to wait and pray for that opportunity because I am on a fixed income. another thing, I loved to hear a lot of the comments, about the music picturing being with Jesus, a lot of times, i try to hard to picture things in my mind, when I try to hard, it doesn’t work, So, I just say very peaceful calming music and in the beginning, when the music is really quiet, I think of the verse be stil and know that I am God.
What a beautiful song, as I sit here and let the music carry me away, I can envision a kaleidoscope of colors and shapes as I hear from God speaking to me. This song transcends time and place and sends you to a place of peace and relaxation.
6) How would I describe a woman with a confident heart? .. A woman who “looks” like she has it all together. She is well dressed keeps a tidy schedule , knows who she is and where the things are she will need at any given time. Who is never down – at least around others and is always with a smile.
oops, answered next weeks questions. The music had me distracted, wink, wink!
2) Has insecurity ever kept you from doing something? Yes many times. I am a professional quitter, I feel like I can never to right, so why finish, in some cases why start…..diets, exercise, college, I could go on forever.
3) Describe how it makes you feel when doubt whispers:…….
It makes me depressed, tired, blue, sad, sometimes like I want to crawl under a rock, sometimes, like I want to die the pain is so unbearable.
A peace seems to be surrounding me and my thoughts. What an amazing young man to have this God given talent and to share it to others to give them peace, hope, beauty and the excitement of God’s promises! Thank you so much for sharing this.
From the questions:
1) The childhood I thought I had was superficial and a lie, not all, but a lot of it. It has always given me low self-esteem and I have yet to finish anything I start. I pray that this study will give me the self-assurance that I can really believe that God loves me and is same as he has always been and has been carrying me through my depression and I will rise up and get out of this mess I have made for myself.
2)My first memory of God, I think was when I was a the Baptist Elementary and the pictures that hang every where of him sitting peacefull, with either a child or lamb sitting at his feet. He wore white robe, sandals, had dark brown , long hair and light skin. We memorized many verses for grades, but they didn’t mean much. I went to church regularly, butwhile I loved it, it was being lectures to, not getting into the word. I feel like he was a curious child, somewhat serious. Kind of like my first child.
Thank you for this studye again.
Ellen
Wow….what a glorious expression of love that is displayed in this musical form of worship. There’s such an intimacy and transparency. Thank you for sharing this! As I listened I was drawn into prayer and started thinking about how I missed dancing in ministry for God. I felt a voice whisper for me to dance and I did. There is such a freedom of pouring your worship on God when there are no words but your heart connects with the Father. After I began to pray again. I began to thank God for my freedom. You see I signed up for this study about a month ago. Shortly thereafter God did a supernatural healing in my life. He broke the bondage of insecurity, people pleasing and low self esteem off my life. I HAVE NOT BEEN THE SAME EVER SINCE! Listening to this song of prayer made me realize that I was actually thankful for what I had gone through…not only was I a people pleaser I always attempted to please God too. Perhaps he used that to keep me from veering down a path of destruction. I don’t know…all I know is that if that is what it took to really appreciate my freedom I AM GRATEFUL and I refuse to go back to living my life bound by the enemy. I will continue to glean from this study the tools to fight the enemy if he even tries to come anywhere near my freedom!!! Be blessed ladies!
Renee you will never know how grateful I am that your are having this online study group for us. My husband and I have a marriage small group that we lead in our home that is an extension of our church family. I had told the some of the ladies on last year that I wanted to do an study group of your book. When you said you were going to start one my Spirit leaped with joy. Some of the ladies are suffering from a lack of confidence and this online study group will help me with my materials that I will be getting together for my study group later this year.
Your book has been a blessing in my life because I to have to deal with having the Confidence to step out and be what God has ordained me to be.
Thank You!!!
The music was beautiful and lulled me into a place of perfect serenity. At the time I listened Reflections which is a DayStar presentation happened to be on and so I muted my TV giving myself both visual and audible pleasure all at the same time; Simply Magnificent! My earliest memory of feeling insecure began at about age 7 or 8. I had a young adult cousin who taunted me about how ugly I was. When ever I knew he was coming, I would hide in the closet so I didn’t have to subject myself to his cruelity. I also remember in 6th grade the kids use to tease me about my pink lip and what they called bags under my eyes… they called me baboon face and asked if I was going someplace because I already had my bags packed. I was well into my 30’s before I could look past their tauntings and look at myself as a beautiful woman. When doubt whispers I feel dispressed first and then fearful but I’m learning to talk back to thouse doubts using the Word of God. I am grateful that I’m learning that the beauty of the Lord lives and dwells with in me.
Barbara…Psalm 45:11…The King is enthralled by YOUR beauty.
As I listen to Chad, it allows me to take some time and listen to God. Listen as He speaks to me to trust HIM in my days of uncertainty. To trust that He has all of my worries and fears under control. As I listen to the quietness, it reminds me to “Be still and know that I am God”.
To describe how it feels when I hear doubt whisper: I can easily identify with this. At the age of 56, this past year has wounded my confidence. After working hard to build a business for over 10 years, I heard the words “We have restructured and don’t have a place for you to “fit” anymore”. Those words hurt my spirit and, at times, still do. I have continued to go on interviews, where I hear how strong I am, how it should be easy for me to get a job since I’m so qualified, but continually get picked over for someone else. So I hear that even though I made it to the top 3 candidates, “I still don’t fit”. But, praise God, He accepts me just as I am. In him, I am worderfully made. And He has a plan and a purpose for me. When I hear those words of “I don’t fit”, I just pray to God for his direction to my PERFECT FIT and the purpose and plan that He has for me.
When I read Jeremiah 17:7 “Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him”, it give me a peace to know that even though the calendar is ready to change to another month of unemployment as I start on month # 16, I don’t know when this season of suffering will end. However, this verse assures me that as I know the ONE who does know the outcome, I can rest today knowing that He has a plan and a purpose and it will all happen in His time. Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus.
As the song started I heard the small voice say this will be your “release.” Release -To set free from confinement, restraint, or bondage. I began to cry. When it got to the 10 minute mark It was the inner turmoil, confusion, roughness of life right now all stirred up. It must all be released. By the work of God he will heal and release me. By the end of the playing I heard the release was done, healing will be done. It is the dawn of a new day! The sun shown brightly and it was finished, done!
Thank you being obedient and following the Lord. This is inner healing.
How incredibly powerful this was for me. Thank you Renee for sharing Chad’s gift with us! I can’t wait to download it! I have already listened to it several times on your blog.
In His Calm, Mary
hi I love music and there is a song by Gungor, Beautiful Things
I have to play this every day– until it sinks in
I have never had a good view of my self. Poor body image and I am very self conscious around other people
God has been teaching me to let go and Look at me the way that God looks at me.
My aunt passed away last october. This song was on the radio and I thought “My aunt was beautiful on the inside and on the outside.” I would love it if someone said that about me.
I am a bit behind after Surgery Thursday, but now that I am home recovering slowly in some area’s and comfortably in others I can say that I was Confident in knowing God was with me all during the pre op – surgery and post op care. HE provided everything I needed in His timing and because of that I am back home recovering,. So I may be slow in catching up but all in good time. HIS TIME!
a complete feeling of peace and comfort!!!!
As I sat here and absorbed every note that Chad played, God revealed to me how every note and rest has a purpose. Just like in my life. Sometimes I may not understand what He is doing, or I may not even appreciate the “low notes”…But in each one He is doing something. He hears the entire song before I even can see it, He knows when I should rest, when I will have a “low note” moment, and even when I will have a “high note” moment. And He uses them together to create a beautiful masterpiece. And that masterpiece is Me….Thank you Lord for showing me your love for me, your daughter. May I never forget my daddy is the King!
THIS IS MY 3 RD TIME A BIBLE STUDY WITH YOUR BOOK. THIS ONE I AM DOING WITH MY SPARKS TEAM. THEY HAD NEVER DONE IT. I LOVE PRAYING GOD’S PROMISES. THE DEVIL CAN’T INTERFER WITH THIS PRAYER PROMISES BECAUSE IT IS GOD’S WORD AND THAT SETTLES IT . THANK YOU FOR SUCH A LIFE CHANGING BOOK. GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS KAY
Wow! BEAUTIFUL piano music. One may sit back and not think of it being a prayerful, But how moving music is……How prayerful it truly is. I read only a portion of some of the comments. What neat perspective so many different women have shared! Thank you!
This first chapter has been amazing for me already! I don’t have a big story but spirituality has been a struggle lately…….. and I have been hearing many doubtful words in my head. I didn’t physically write down those words of doubt and throw them away….but as soon as I caught myself thinking them, I mentally threw them away! THANK YOU for that advise!
Praying for you all! God Bless!!
I love this song! And I love simply taking the time to listen to it and be still. I find it so hard to be still with Him daily. This song helps to quiet my racing mind and help me to focus on Him.
As I read and answered the reflection questions at the end of chapter 1 I was reminded about all the times in my life that doubt has kept me from doing the things I wanted to do. I missed out on swimming as a child because I didn’t believe I could do it and I missed out on joining certain clubs in high school because I didn’t think I would get in. I do not want to let doubt rob me anymore. I am making the commitment not to throw away my confident and to persevere.
Incredibly peaceful….beautiful piano music…..so soothing to my weary soul. It was so wonderful just to sit and listen and focus on Jesus my Lord….without any interruptions. Bless you for sharing your gifts!
Jen
Beautiful song and music. I have really been struggling this past week. But I am going to stick it out ans do this study group and gain my confidence because I can do all things through Christ who strengths me. I am so glad I joined in on this study.
I loved the verse Isaiah 43:19 “See, I am doing a new thing.” AND the verse right before it – “Do not remember the former things, nor consider the things of old.” The Lord is encouraging us to put the past behind us – where it belongs – and surrender to the work He is about to do – NO! is DOING in us! I am longing to be that New Creation that will emerge as I persevere. This is JUST the word of encouragement I needed to hear – and the heavenly music! Thanks!!
I do a lot of volunteer work in a Chinese orphanage and our nursery currently has about 80 babies. I am going to put this onto a CD and have it play all night while the babies are sleeping each night. While I pray for God to camp his angels over our little ones every night, I can see them rejoicing with this music as our little ones sleep and they watch over them. Thank you for sharing this.
What a gift those babies will receive. Thanks for sharing.
Oh Vickie. WOW!! That just blesses my soul to the deepest core of my being. My daughter was in an orphanage for 4 months so the thought of you being there with those babies and playing this over them just brings me to tears – and it will means so much to Chad too. I’ll be sure to tell him!!!
So beautiful…my heart was full of joy and in a happy place. It made me think of how beautiful I am because God made me. Istart thinking I couldnt do anything at the age of 8. I struggled in school and tried very hard. But it seemed no matter how hard I try I still didn’t do well. There have been times I won’t try something because I don’t think I am smart enough. My husband is very brite and I feel I am holding us back in doing the Lords work because I am not smart enough. I know theLord has used me in alot of was. But there are times I think that. Listening to that music spoke to my heart. Thank you.
Beautiful reflection of the music of God’s heart. Music stirs our hearts and brings us into God’s presence like nothing else can. Praise Him for the gift of music and the people he blesses which such indescribable talent.
Two years ago this month I had a miscarriage. I thought that I had worked through my grief, but when my husband’s grandmother passed away this month I was so broken hearted, for her and for my baby. But today when I listened to this song, God gave me a picture in my mind of Grandma and my Son running through this beautiful field. I sensed God telling me that it needs to be well with my soul. That they are happy, healthy, and safe. It brought a smile to my face.
Lord, thank you for your love for me. For caring enough about my feelings that you would allow me to have this wonderful picture in my mind. Great Physician heal my broken heart today. Allow me to sit in your presense and feel joy again. In Jesus name, Amen.
Thank you Pam
When i listened to the music i felt sad. I’m still grieving the loss of my best friend. When i read your post about your grandma and son happy and running thru fields i remembered that Lolli, my friend is finally with her husband. She missed him till the day she died. You have helped me remember that she is happy now and i need to be happy for her
God bless you for sharing so generously. Imagine how much we will learn throughout this study. Thank you Renee for this opportunity to share with my Sisters in Christ.
hi Pam I too, struggle with loss of a child. I will pray for you, sister
How Peaceful just close your eyes and picture when we will meet our Heavenly Father. Its so Beautiful.
I listen to this and am reminded to slow down, let God choose the timing.remember that whatever He would have me do He can make it happen if I just trust and don’t insert my own agenda, extra”help” etc.I am ashamed that I have let the world sap the confidence right out of me. When I wait on the Lord, read the Bible, listen for the Holy Spirit,I am so much better equipped to get through anything.thank you for sharing this prayer and for paying for those of us in this study who are struggling with living our faith as we should.I am amazed at the grace of God.
The answers to the questions in the study were difficult — all those years of trying to do the right thing for the wrong reasons. The fear of failing, looking stupid, when He was right there the entire time. Those times I didn’t speak about Him out of discomfort (okay, embarrassment!) and trying to fill the emptiness with anything I could get my hands on but always holding my relationship with Him under wraps. Knowing He is real but wondering what He could possibly want with me. Yeah, doubt. Yeah, insecurity.
With the video, I started out a bit tentative, like getting reacquainted with a relative I haven’t seen for awhile. There was that moment when I knew we had reconnected and His presence is unavoidable. My heart transitions to being present. As worship begins, there is awe but there is also delight! Then He gently speaks … love, reassurance, showing me those places where I have His will right. He is the rhythm of my heart and He reminds me I am the accompaniment to His song. Joy begins to bubble and then pours out. I am carried away on still waters in harmony with Him. There is no sense of rushing through this, just meandering with Him in comfort, safety and simplicity. “I never change. You look for My power but seldom My presence. Do you hear My heart? Do you taste My love? Do you skip at My delight in you? Do you see how My eyes sparkle as I gaze into yours?” The tentative awkwardness is gone and I am mesmerized by Him. The self-consciousness is gone as He sweeps me into His arms and we dance — no more two left feet for me! I don’t want to stop. He is my Melody. Yes, my Lord sings over me!
My answers to Ch. 1 questions in the book:
1.My earliest moment of feeling insecure was during my childhood. I didn’t have any friends except ones I was forced to have.
2.Insecurity and fear keep me from doing things because I think it willl end with a negative income or that I will fail at whatever it is.
3.It makes me feel helpless, embarrassed, stupid, inadequate, unworthy, sad, frusturated, defeated.Like this is the true. Question why try. I am who I am. Question if this is true or if I even want to change. Change is scary. If something good will happen than change is okay, but if it has bad results than I don’t want change. .Hopelessness. Your right. I am tired of trying.
4.These r great promises, but they don’t apply to me. If they do apply to me, how?
5. What hinders me is my lack of trusting that God’s plan is better than mine. My trying to be self-sufficient, and not trusting or relying on God. Analysizing everything again my own thoughts instead of scripture.
6.A women with a confident heart trusts God’s plan. She knows that she is a child of God, and that God created her the way that He wanted. She knows who she is in Christ and she does not allow outside influences or thoughts distract her from knowing and believing God’s word. She is seeking to be more like Christ and is in God’s will for her life.
I think I have always felt insecure. I never really felt my father’s love as a child, I know now as an adult that my father has always loved me. But i spent many years trying to earn his love, trying to be good enough. I have carried this into all of the relationships in my life, most of the time feeling like I was never quite good enough and always looking for some approval. This has caused me to miss out or toss out important relationships in my life. The thing that hinders me from living a God confident life is a lack a faith and trust, always afraid of rejection and failure. The promise that has been in my head this week is ” all things GOD works for the good of those who love Him, who have been call according to His purpose” God wants me to love and trust Him. I want unconditional love and acceptance and He is offers it to me, if I would just let go and let Him have control of my life. He is the only one that can offer me what I want. He says,”His love is sufficient, that He will never leave me nor forsake me, that He has a plan and a purpose for my life.” Lord, help me to trust in your promises.
Thank you for such beautifulnmusic. I have been feeling very sad the last few days. I believe it is thinking about two who are lost to me. I gave up a child for adoption 35 years ago. This is something i have never fully gotten over. The saddest thing is i was unable to have another child. I had premature ovarian failure. This was devistating. The second one whonis now gone is my best friend. She diedin December last year. She is special to me because she introduced me to bible study,church and Jesus and now she is with Jesus. I know we will be together again but it sure hurts now. Reading question 2I realized one of the reasons I gave up my baby was because of insecurity. I didn’t think I could take care of her by myself. I wanted her to have a better life than I did and Inknew I couldn’t do that alone. I’m thankful for this study. I hope to be able to resolve these issues.
As I began to watch the video, I looked at Chad’s fingers on the keys and could feel God’s joy and delight in using Chad to create such beautiful music. It brought forth a well-spring of emotions in me and the tears just flowed, but as quickly as the emotions washed over me, so did a deep sense of peace and gratitude. Wow!
From chapter 1, question #7: Over the past week, I came to the realization that due to my own inability to “let go” of my circumstances, I was preventing God from fixing them. I have since begun to release my circumstances to Him and this verse has provided great encouragement to me that I am indeed now falling in line with His will. After 2 years of struggle and heartache, I finally feel refreshed, at peace and have hope in my heart again. Thank you, God!
As I was answering the questions I realized that by not believing God’s promises are for me I am believing Satan – giving the Father of Lies more power than the Father Creator of the universe. I am grateful that my Father immediately forgave me and I have committed to believe the Redeemer regardless of how I feel.
Beautiful. What a backdrop to reading the chapters and peace to answer the questions. I think I will look to use it each week to set the stage for reaching each chapter. Thank you Renee and Chad. Blessings
My confidence is often dependent upon circumstances instead of upon God. If all is going well, I am confident, if it is not going well, I am not as confident. Today, I struggle because of the intense amount of pain I am in, I am to have a partial knee replacement on May 17th. The pain seems to rule my life right now, just to go to work, and back home is a trial. As fast as time passes, I am sure that it will be May 17th before we know it. I wish I could have heard the music of Chad, but for some odd reason even with the volume up, I can’t hear it. To answer a question, I have suffered with lack of confidence since I was a child. Today, I am claiming Jeremiah 17:7. My prayer goes like this. Diana you are a daughter of the most high, you are loved with an everlasting love, and I am with you even today, in your pain. My word says blessed is the woman who believes in, trusts in and relies on Me. I am the Lord your God, I have a plan for you and as you rely on Me, I will increase your confidence and hope. Thanks for the message of courage, I like Carle want to be transformed, renewed. Blessings to you all. Diana
One more thing 😉 I don’t know why I have such a difficult time with speaking/praying Scriptures out loud…but I want to be transformed…renewed. Please will you pray that I can keep it up…and not quit. I so need renewal of my mind.
Sometimes God enjoys it as we dance before Him…but even more, our LORD wants to dance with us….
It’s been a hard week as my favorite aunt passed on…The music brings tears to my weary soul… it is beautiful…and reminds me that sometimes it is okay just to crawl up on Abba-Father’s lap and rest….
(Haven’t had time to do the chapters yet…maybe when things settle down.)
This piece really relaxed and soothed my aching spirit. I had a long, tiring week and was wondering how I can make it through another week but listening to this calmed me and now I feel more focused and refreshed. At specific points when listening to it, I got goosebumps because it was very intense and then at other times I felt my mind just drifting off into dreamland. It is a very wonderful piece of music.
Describe what happens in your heart when you read God’s words:
Isaiah 49:23
It is a truly peaceful feeling to know that as long as we believe in God, we will not be disappointed.
Is there a promise listed above that speaks to your greatest need right now?
Romans 8:28
This is because I need to truly open my heart to God and let Him show me His will for my life. I need to open my heart and love God fully so I can grow in Him and He in me. I want to truly become what God wants me to become.
Wow! I have chills! I have been praying all day for a friends niece, Lyndsay, a 22 year old who has leukemia and now has an infection throughout her body. It makes me think of my own children, all four who are around this age, and I am so thankful they are healthy. My heart breaks for Lyndsay and her family. This music and Renee’s words not only helped me believe He will heal her, but knowing for sure she will win this battle against the infection. Thank you Renee and Chad for this quiet time with my Lord and Savior.
Thank you so much for the beautiful gift of music. I have been struggling with feelings of fear today. A friend is severely ill, but praise God, the doctors are reversing his kidney problem! My daughter has been ill with the flu, but trying to attend a youth retreat with our church. As I watched this presentation I felt the fear and tension melt away. I almost feel that “out of body” feeling I can get when I am in deep prayer and connection with the Lord! I really want to experience HIS peace more during my day. Thank you for the reminder to just let the Lord lead me where He would have me go. What a great way to end my busy day!
Its so hard to take time out. I am going to make this work and take time out. Reading the post listing to the beautiful music is calming helps me tell myself my situation is not so bad. I am not the only one! I need to remember to thank him for all that he has given me. He has leading me home on the path to finding out who I really am and how to make my two girls strong women. I really am excited about this opportunity and am ready to go. I just have to remind myself to MAKE the time!
How do the whispers make me feel?
Like a failure! I just don’t know how to get rid of this feeling. Tonight tried the exercise of throwing away the doubt whispers? But I could still hear them from the garbage can 🙂 I hope through this journey I learn how to quiet them.
Renee- Just want to say Thank you! You are truly a blessing and I know many of us ladies are thinking that this study this book may just be the turning point to “making things new” I loved the song and would love the idea of a song every week to go along with all the other amazing things you have for us! Thank you again!
This is amazing…I don’t get much time with my husband during the week & when I started this study I thought I would sit in the living room while he watched TV & read & write my assignments. I have a christian classical cd somewhere & I have been searching everywhere to find. I was wanting something to block the noise but still be in the same room! Of course I haven’t found it! God is so good to send this song…it absolutely touched my soul. He kept telling me to listen…just listen as I was getting a bit restless @ first. Then He reminded me of the sunrises & sunsets He knows I love…that He paints for my delight! The music was the same…he would show me different scenes of things I love as the music went on…I would see waterfalls, fields of beautiful wild flowers & then @ one point in the song it was sweet, innocent, holy…I felt His love. It was beyond words. The last part to me was Jesus’ life. It crescendo to His death & I felt the disciples heartbreak, discourgement & confusion. He reminded me that even when things look bleak & hopeless, He is working on the details and the most incredible things will come out of the pain. It then sounded like hope, renewal & life. I could feel myself dancing with my Savior & it was so incredibly freeing! I feel so refreshed and rested like none other. That is amazing!!