“Jesus did not die on the cross just to get us out of hell and into heaven.
He died on the cross to get Himself out of heaven and into us.
It’s what we were we made for. It’s why we long for glory.
The truth is, we were created to reveal glory – just not our own.
God created us in His image to reveal His glory by giving visibility to His invisible character within us. Christ in us is the hope of the glory. (Col 1:27)”
From Chapter 11, A Confident Heart
***
Our Word/Phrase for the week is: Created for Glory
Download and print our word for the week in a PDF or in MSWord.
His WORD for us this week: ” I have become its )the church’s) servant by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness— the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the saints. To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” (Colossians 1:27, NIV)
From My Heart:
I am feeling sad and proud today!! I didn’t want to write this post because it’s our last one Word of the week for this go-round. It’s our last week together in my first online study (so I”m sad) but we did it ( so I’m proud)!!! Even if you aren’t yet reading chapter 11, I’m still proud of you because you’re here today which means you haven’t given up!!:0) Friend, let’s commit to throw off anything that hinders us this week so we can run with endurance and finish strong together — staying connected and committed to the end.
Staying Connected:
Please share your thoughts about what I shared from Chapter 11 at the top of this post. What are your thoughts us being created for glory – but just not our own. What are some other ways God is speaking to you so far in chapter 11. {If you’ve never commented before – I hope today is the day you do!!! And if you are a regular – don’t be shy please. I want to hear from all of YOU!!
{Just Click “share your thoughts” below this post and do just that. And if you are reading this via email click here to connect through the comments on my website!}
This past week has had moments, that in any other point of my life, would have seemed unbearable and rendered me immobile. But now, armed with God’s truths, I’m able to build up my son (when he came home from school crying because he was bullied because of his disability), my daughter (who is overwhelmed with a 2-year illness), my husband (when he’s rejected by his family members), or even myself (fighting exhaustion from illness and stress). I now know that, broken as I am, God loves me unconditionally and is there with me in my battle against the evil one. I have HOPE. Thank you, Renee, for opening my eyes to God’s promises. I will be joining your next Bible study, to make sure that I continue on this right track. (I’ve invited all of my sisters and sisters-in-law to join, too, and purchased your eBook for each of them…no excuses 🙂 May you have a blessed Easter season.
Renee, I have your book in my basket by my bed as a great reference in times of need. Thank YOU for opening your heart and sharing with us your life and Christian faith. You revealed His glory through this study. I pray I’ll do the same now and in the future. God bless you and your ministry.
Sarah Young’s “Jesus Calling: A 365 Day Devotional” has quoted the last part of Col.1:27 today, March 27.
“…Christ in you, the hope of glory!” How amazing is that! The word and verse you have chosen for this week Renee. I love the way God shows His truths and promises so clearly to me/us .
Wow, that is so neat!! I love Jesus Calling but haven’t read today’s post yet. God’s timing and leading is so amaZing and encouraging! Thanks for sharing that Lois!
The thoughts that we were created to reveal His Glory are awesome, but a little scary too! I think this study has really helped me. If you add to it the next time and have your husband in the video;s with you would be great. I am married, so I would really like to hear the man’s perspective as well. I haven’t started reading in Ch. 11 yet, but will definitely do that tonight! I really love this book. I even bought the Kindle version when it was on sale, so I’ll always have a copy handy! I think this is a book that I will review often. Thanks so much for writing and being willing to share all this wonderful stuff with us.
Blessings,
Thank you, Renee, for all your work in writing this book. Before I started this book, I knew I had a problem with perfectionism. But as I read the book, I realized, one, I’m not perfect and never will be; and, two, that’s okay because God is perfect. It seems such a simple concept, but one that is going from head knowledge to heart knowledge for me. My confidence is in God, and it’s in realizing my weaknesses that He is glorified in and through my life.
Thank you Renee for this study! I am so sad that we’re at the end so soon. I’ve learned so much over the past 11 weeks! I notice a difference in me and so do my co-workers, friends and family. I love that I learned how to speak with God daily–not at him, and that He is with me always. I’ve learned to trust Him and no matter what the trials are or the circumstances I am in-He stands with me-always. I’ve learned that I am perfectly imperfect and just exactly who I am because God created me to be so. I now really do understand that no matter what I’ve done in the past or mistakes I may make in the future-God loves me always. I may not know the “why” about many things such as trials I may face in the future but I do know that I will endure and persevere with God by my side. I plan on re-reading this book again and again in the years to come. Again, Thank-You Renee! May God richly bless you and your family.
Hi Renee!
I just want to thank you for listening to God and writing this book, and for sharing from your heart. When I first read about this book through Proverbs 31 Minstries, I knew it was the book for me! I have struggled with self-confidence all of my life. I have discovered amazing truths for my life and have been reminded just how much God loves each of us. My heart can be confident through and with Him. I am so excited about all that I have learned that I really encourage all of my family and friends to read it and to participate in your on-line studies. So, THANK YOU!!! Keep up all the amazing things you are doing for our Lord. God bless you!! P.S… I plan to visit your blog on a regular basis!!
Renee and all the others in our online study….
What a glorious time this has been…learning how to live in the confidence of Jesus Christ amidst our storms and trials in our lives. Renee, you have done your task of writing this book, A Confidant Woman, from your life story and we have been challenged now to go forward in that confidence. To practice it and grow it…thus squashing out our doubts and giving Jesus the victory in our lives! It is sad when a study is over, but now it is time for us to get up and do OUR parts in this journey…your part of writing and encouraging us is past. We have this book and God’s Holy Word to fall into whenever we need that nudge of encouragement when times get messy and we doubt ourselves again. We are in this journey together still and can lift one another up in prayer –even though we are not in an online study together.
I have been so encouraged and challenged throughout the entire book…Chapter 11 was such an encouragement to go forward…to stand up and make a difference to other women whose paths cross ours. Put on this confidence in Christ that we have learned about and grown into…keep it growing by remembering His words to us about being loved, chosen, unique, created for His glory, beloved,etc. Don’t let it end just because we have come to page 220…don’t sink back to who you were when you first began this study, but continue on in the grace of God as the woman that YOU have become, the woman that YOU want to keep becoming:that CONFIDENT woman of God!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Bottom of page 204-top of page 205 just says it all for me: about how Renee (and God too) wants us to take all that we have learned from the study and read in Christ and to give it away to other women who need it so that we may become encouragers for them..to help them live in the promises of God’s promises, as it helps reinforce what we have learned here.
Renee, I LOVED your story about the rosebush and how in the process of splitting the roots to replant them for even more growth, that God showed you that is exactly what He wants your little church group to be doing….that is what He wants us all to be doing: spreading out our roots for others growth in Him too. Become a leader for growth and God’s glory to continue to shine in us and in others…to bring more glory to His name.
Thank you, Renee, for the writing of this book–I pray often in thanks to God for Christian authors, as I read a LOT of Christian romance novels and have gotten into reading more nonfiction Christian help books now…how happy I am that several years back that I got connected to Prov31 ministries, getting your challenging devotionals each day in my emails and this is the 4th study online that I have been involved with through Prov31..the 2nd book study. I will be joining again…..!
God bless you all and His anointings on each one of you as you continue on your journey with Him!
Grow….grow…grow!!
Karen Halterman
Osage,Iowa
Hi Renee, I want you to know how much this study has meant to me! It seems like each week that the chapter fit perfectly with what was going on in my life. I know this study has had a significant impact on me. I love the truth in chapter 11 that Christ desires to live in us, this is truly what our life and relationship with Christ should be about! I pray that my life will reflect more of his glory each day, and that my confidence will always be a fruit of GOD’S TRUTH in my life!
I like the image you used Renee of the rosebush .Of all the chapters I can relate to the rosebush the best..because the rosebush you talk about total surrender to God and his way be done in us. I can relate the best because I am Pentecostal and our church talks about surrendering our will to God and let his power flow through us., Thanks for a wonderful study!
This was a humbling ending to an excellent study. Thank you! God has touched my heart through your writings and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to read your book and be a part of your ministry.
Thank you.
Wow…thank you Renee for the book and this wonderful study! It has renewedChrist in me in SO many ways. Thank you ladies for all of your support, prayers and comments. I am sad this is our last week, although I will be continuing with my study, and re-reading this wonderful book!
I haven’t started Ch. 11…but I will tonight! I cant wait!
Thank you! And God bless you all!
Thank you Renee for this study. Chapter 8 really helped me. I had my bible study, girls I work
with and my husband do the personality traits. Most traits were similar , except my husbands.
Of course he sees me different then others, we are together most of the time :). I have been
praying a lot how I can serve god in the community and my church. He answered my prayers
through this study in chapter 8. The feed back that I received helped me balance my strengths
and weaknesses to discover where I needed to serve.
Blessings to you Renee and all you do! Thank you.
After reading Chapter 8, I prayed and became active in that area of my life, my passions and talents. I had applied to grad school and I have been in a process of waiting to hear back. Recently I overheard someone at work discussing my application and saying that she did not believe I would be good at my chosen field. Its a technical degree, one that requires skill. At first, I let her words sink in deep into my heart. This would have previously bothered me and caused self doubt, as well as negative thoughts for who knows how long. But immediately, I recognized that she doesn’t provide me with the skill, but God does. And He has gifted me, given me the courage to apply, and the confidence to know that it doesn’t matter what I do (whether I get accepted into the program or not).. but who I am in Him. I read my verses from Ps 139 and went on about my day, choosing to see that I am Christ’s child and His thoughts about me are what really matters.
I know this burst of confidence has been from my growing in Him through this study. I just wanted to say thank you for this book, the study, and for your time Renee. I have enjoyed the online aspect as well, reading other stories from people and seeing how everyone encourages one another in Christ. Beautiful!!
Asking God to be my peace. Since I am created for glory I need to fight the lies of satan. He has been fighting hard today. God is in control. He loves me–let me learn that is enough,please, Father
I am a news follower of your website, I brought your book a few months ago but only have gotten thru a few chapters. So I am looking forward to the studing with you in April. GOD Bless you always
This study has enhanced my leadership with my Sabbath ladies and sr hi Lenten prayer group. It has also made me more faithful to follow my personal spiritual disciplines. Having read this chapter that concluded with encouraging words, I set my alarm for 6am and text every student I have. The words were simple
Good morning, have a great day, remember you are loved. The response was overwhelming from the youth. “thanks, I needed that today”. “bless you too”, Going to be a great day”, “thanks for thinking of me,” I can count on you to remind me what is really important”. So never underestimate the power of encouraging words!
I forgot to say that there have been times in the last 3 years that I have been at the point of checking out on life. The times when the pain has been so severely bad that I almost turned my car into an oncoming log truck, the time I searched the house for any medications strong enough to do me in, the times I have thought of driving out into the woods to kill myself so no family member would have to find me. God brought me out of each of those times and if we seek him he will take that pain and trade it for peace. He is enough.
Becky, I feel for you. I’ve had thoughts of that nature before and wondered who would really care if I was not here. God brought me out of those times, as a survivor of domestic violence many times in my life though I have to say I wonder if any on earth, especially family would even care as they are so distant.
Through this course, I have let go of any promise that my adult children will respond and even though I don’t know why they choose to painfully hurt me, I know who the Judge will be one day and it’s out of my hands. I’m still in the peace recovery phase of a horrendous divorce where my life was threatened. I guess December was the lowest aftermath even though I tried to stay positive. I prayed very hard and serious and then met a wonderful Christian man that I know was meant to cross my life path. The pain of the years before the divorce still emerges without me wanting them to. I know that if I don’t forget it then I will ruin another person’s life and I’m trying real hard but I’m so ready for peace. Even until this week, so many months later I am still dealing with issues, legally and at home about what happened. So, I hope peace does come one day.
Jennifer Ann, thank you for your response, I pray Lord, you bless Jennifer with your peace and your comforting presence. I pray you put good people around her to help her be encouraged. I know you will give her promises from your word to that specifically apply to her life situation. Be encouraged Jennifer Ann. God bless you and heal every part of the bad memories, and may you be filled with hope. Love in Christ, Becky
Dear Sisters in Christ, I have been devouring Chapter 11 all this AM. I am sensing growth in the area of confidence, faith, trust from participating in this Bible Study. Renee, the Lord anointed your writing, and willingness to let us see your less than perfect parts, so that we know we are not the only imperfect Christian women and that God can use us too. August of 2008, I remember praying to the Lord to bring revival in my immediate family and extended family. Many family members had fallen away from their relationship in Christ. Since that date all but 1 of the items from Melissa Taylor’s devotion on pages 211 & 212 have happened. I at times have cried my heart out to the Lord “why when I asked for revival, have I seen so much destruction?” I am so much closer and dependent on the Lord since that day, my confidence and trust and faith have multiplied and I know, Yes God is enough. I am still waiting to see the fruit of my prayers, and the prayers of others for my family members. But I do know God is enough. I am more at peace than I have ever been, in my 33 years of knowing Jesus as my Savior. God bless all of you women out there and you are in my prayers.
I am sad and glad. Sad that this is ending–I still need to read the chapter, but very glad I signed up again for the next one in April. It has been a blessing to me and it has given me the confidence to approach God with confidence and not to cower from him or run away. I still have a long way to go and I am glad you are offering this again. Thanks so much for a powerful study. It will go hand in hand with The Untroubled Heart by Micca Campbell. Blessings!
Dear Renee,
I have so enjoyed this study! As with all things God does, it came at just the right time in my life. I can’t thank you enough for you sharing your talents and love for Jesus with us. I may do this study with you again, as I tend to get even more the 2nd time!
Your friend in Christ – Jean
Gosh, I am so sad to see the study end but I am so excited to see what Christ is doing in me. Thank you for sharing your very heart and soul with us and allowing God to work through you. To be able to see that it is ok to fall and to teach us how to fall but most of all to keep our focus on Him and to trust that He knows what is best for us no matter what. Thank You Again!
Created for His glory…in his image…His righteous, redeemed, Holy, CHILD! If we could only remember this when we are in the midst of a battle and remind ourselves how beautiful God says we are and how very much we mean to Him… Thank you for a wonderful study and for helping so many to develop their “Confident Heart”!
This has been a great study. My eyes have been opened to things in God’s Word that I haven’t seen before. But I to Renee about it ending. It has been challenging and inspiring to read and I know I will be reading it again and again. I have also been sharing what I have been learning with other sisters from our church here in Colorado Springs, CO and I have sparked some interests in the book. So much that a couple of the sisters said they were going to take advantage of the deal at Amazon and have it either put on their phone or kindle I have it both ways because I just love the book so much. I heard about this book through the Proverbs 31 Ministries email devos that I receive and I love them all as well. I have thanked God for blessing you Renee for writing this book it is a book that so many women need. I being one of them.I love your heart Renee you have a devotion for God and it rubs off on others around you, so keep up the good work and keep in the race and keep inspiring others of Gods great work and healing powers. I now even have a new charater in the Bible to keep in mind when I struggle with my faith that is Gideon, what an amazing story that was to hear thanks for sharing it with so many Renee and also thanks Renee for sharing so much of your own story. Much of your story I can relate to so your not alone, not by any means. May God bless you Rneee and all of the other sisters as weel that have been doing this study with you. God Bless to all and have an awesome day.
I am so Blessed to have been given the Opportunity to get to know you and all the other Mighty Women of God from this online study.God has gave me the insight of knowing My Past doesn’t determine my Future.Who I was then is not Who I am now.I thank Him that He gives us a growing Grace so that we can become the Women of God he sent us to be.I Love the Part where you talk about in Chapter 11 As we become Confident in Christ we will then become a Display of God’s Splendor.The Lord lights my Path and all I have to do is listen to His Instructions to keep me firmly on the path of Righteousness.The Word saaids God’s Word is a lamp unto my feet and a Light unto my Path.[PSALM 119:105-107]I have taken my oath and confirmed it with Confidence that I will follow the Precepts that My Father has laid out before me.Therefore I will find all I need for Healing,Prosperity,peace and Contentment.[ST.MATTHEW 5:2-12]Peace is the Guardian of my heart and mind I refuse to let my heart be troubled any longer.When the storms of life come I will let Peace be the Anchor for my Soul.The Lord is Jehovah -Shalom He is my Peace.Therefore I fear Nothing.I will live out my days on this earth in a full and Abundant life.I love that Gideon built a Altar to the Lord and called it THE LORD IS PEACE.Sister Renee you have helped me get off the milk and now onto the meat of God’s Word.You are a Beautiful Reflection of God’s Love.I Pray many many Bless years in the Ministry for you and that you know what a Blessing you are and how you are a soul Winner[PROVERBS 11:30]You have left an iimpact on my heart I will never forget you my Friend and SIster in Christ.
I am still struggling to catch up and to be honest this was one of the most difficult books I have ever read. Not because it wasn’t a great book, but totally the opposite. Mostly because you have readers deal with some very difficutl things in their lives, which for me has been extremely tough to deal with and some things you have asked us to do, I just plainly could not. I don’t want to rehash stuff that is suppose to be forgotten and than I question if God really is telling me to do just that. To heal a part of my heart that I haven’t been able to deal with for years. I have shed many tears reading this book, but some things I just could not do on my own. So I am wondering can I do this bible study again, and also wondering if my husband could do this with me together. We both are going through some issues depressions seems to be a main one and both of us finding out who we are in Christ Jesus would really make the difference in how we value ourselves, each other, and how we live our lives. So Renee can this book be done by a man and can I do this study again but with my hubby? I really feel God calling me to this book, because how often do someone start out with a book and not finish it, and then get an email saying it is starting up again. Not by chance I don’t think but God appointed. And now your offering it again, and I still think this is God moving in my situation and teaching me something but hopefully with my hubby. Your response is greatly appreciated. Hugs.
Absolutely!! I would love for you and your husband to do this study together – and to be part of it here online in late April. If you all want, I can do a video with my husband and share our story of walking through all of this together and individually. He’s read my book once and just recently picked it up again because he needed to remember and apply some things again.
Let me know your thoughts – from those married and not married. :0)
Renee, doing a video(s) with you and your husband sharing together would be an excellent addition.
And, Thank you Renee for your dedicated devotion to helping us women. Can’t wait until the next study.
Renee this would mean so much to me and to him. I know that right now he thinks that it is aimed more for women and to have your husband relate to the book and inspiring men would be an absolute turning point to my hubby being commited to doing a book that isn’t just for ladies but for men too. Thanks so much for thinking of this and being so willing to be used to reach out to men as well. Love you for that! Hugs.
Yes, on you and JJ doing a video together! God introduced you to me during a webcast by Lysa TerKuerst during her Made to Crave study last year. You and JJ were both on the webcast. And feel free to include a little bleep of Aster! :0)
Renee – I just wanted to take a minute to thank you for this Bible Study. It truly has helped me come to terms with the fact that God loves us no matter. We need to be confident in His love and share our hearts with others. I too am sad that this is the last chapter. I pray you will do more online bible studies in the future. THANK YOU!
Page 207 “He wanted me to depend solely on Him for my confidence. He used that season to draw me into a place of sweet surrender.” God uses all our “seasons” for our good and His glory!!! Thank you so much, Renee for sharing your life, your struggles, your surrender to God with us!! You have made a wonderful difference in my life!!! This is the second time I have done this study and God continues to speak to me through it!!! Blessings and (((HUGS)))!!!! Anita <3
Renee, I know you probably hear this often, but this study came at a “God-appointed” time in my life. I heard about the study through the Prov. 31 devotional that I had been receiving via email. I have been a christian many years but have always struggled with fear of man and insecurities so I decided to check out the study, which began of course in the middle of Jan. Well, at the end of December, with much prayer, my family needed to leave our church after 20 yrs. and then shortly after my husband got laid off of his job after 14 yrs. We had been feeling change for quite some time and here it was. Well, many things transpired and we ended up moving to Alabama about 3 weeks ago. (I have only moved once in my life from AK to CA). Your study has been so instrumental during this whole time, because talk about the fear, doubt, and insecurities, especially the last 3 months. Each week as I would struggle through all the changes, and wondering whether God was with us, and as I read each chapter and journaled, you would say things that would hit home to how I was feeling. It would give me faith again and hope in God. I still have days where fear and doubt try to get me down because my husband is still looking for work and a place to live here in Huntsville, AL, but I pick up your book to read on and I feel God’s peace in your words and stories. On a side note, several months ago I had been sensing singing and worship stirring up in my heart again. (I was a worship leader for about 12 yrs before but haven’t been active in music for many yrs…too long of a story to get in to.) Your book, as well as God, has been stirring up those things in my heart and is giving me the confidence again to step out in the gift that God called me to many years ago. I thought God didn’t want me to do ever lead worship again because I was told that women shouldn’t lead. Anyway, thank you so much for the study. My story is still being laid out as my family is forging on in this new place and new church we are attending. I am excited because I am going to a conference in Birmingham that Lysa T. will be ministering. I am sad its ending too!
So sad that this part is ending, but happy that I can sign up again and keep reading on my own. I finished chapter 11, but will go back to it and underline the parts that stand out for me. Renee, it was great meeting you on Satuday at Faithlift. What a blessing you are. God has given you a wonderful gift. I am so excited for what God has in store for me, also. I am no longer going to doubt my self and keep continuing to seek God on a daily basis. I know that God will use my life to touch others, but most important to show my family that God is the most important person in my life and he has given me so many blessings. I will look back on my past to see how I want to live my future and it is defintely staying in prayer and being faithful to God and using what he will give me to turn around and touch someone else’s life. Blessings, Elaine
Also meant to tell you that I told our women’s Bible study group about the book & they have decided to make this our next book study! Lovin’ it!
That is so encouraging!! Thank you for recommending it to them. I love that!!
Lovin’ this book! Thanks so much, Renee!
Renee, thank you so much for this study! I needed it so much and have enjoyed it more than any other study I’ve ever done. This is the first study I’ve done with the actual author and it made a difference! I felt like you were more like my friend walking me through this than some stranger! I am walking about VICTORIOUS because I was Created for Glory! Praise the Lord!!! This is now my “go to” book for gifts! I pray that everyone who reads this book will be as blessed as I was! Thank you again for this extra time you have provided to us!
I agree with Tasha and I am right there with you Tasha, Renee has walked us through it as a friend and not a stranger. And I for one am greatful to her for doing so. Renee you have such a Christ like heart even Jesus calls us friend. I am so grateful to God for Him putting you in my life.
I’m really excited about the realization that I’m not only forgiven for my past but that God is going to use it for good… I’m unsure of how that will happen and I do have a hard time wrapping my mind around being an avenue that Gods “splendor” can be seen. I am seeking Him diligently, I want to know Him and live with Him as my priority, my focus.
What a beautiful study. It has shook me to the core. I needed to see and believe what God sees and believes about me. Thank you for SPELLING it out for this busy mother of 5. We just celebrated my youngest sons 1st birthday yesterday, and today is a day of getting an infusion for a disease I know God is healing me of! Complete healing! Just sharing this, hoping a few others may come along and pray for healing as well as my son Chase (he is one of my 2 yr old twins), he too needs a touch from Jesus’ hand…he’s experiencing developmental delays and will have tests on May 8th… I can already see the hand of God moving on my precious boy.. I stand firm that he will begin to grow mentally, socially and physically…that he is going to be used for Gods glory in Mighty ways!! Praise Jesus Name!
Many blessings to you Renee..I plan on keeping my eyes open for any conferences you may do my way! I’m in South East Indiana…approximately an hour East of Cincinnati Ohio.
Angella, prayers are being sent up to our Heavenly Father for healing for your son Chase, for you, and for all your family. Thank you for sharing, Angella.
Thank you so very much! God Bless!
Thank you Renee … I so love the final word above … we are All Created for Glory … only HIS glory … yes and AMEN
This book has been wonderful and I now know why God screamed in my ear that I need to read it. He screamed because I ignored him the first few times I saw it. Renee you have such a way with words and I feel like God wanted me to read this now because I needed it right now. Your words were perfect and very comforting. As for the statement I above I agree that God made us to reveal that inner character of his within us. He has a plan for us. We need to be confident in him as well as confident within ourselves to put that plan into action and have the faith he is there with us. I will miss reading your post and being part of this study. Sad to see it end.
Amen Jenny I totally agree with you. I too neede this book right now only I din’t know it at first.
I was in the middle of a year long study & decided to wait on starting yours because I really did want to finish my year long study strong! I did, however, read some of the messages & looked at some of the study plans. Now I’m almost finish with my year long study (absolutely thrilled & so glad I will finish the commitment I started) & very excited about joining your next on-line study in April…..in fact, I can hardly wait!!
I just want to testify to the fact that you will not be disappointed. It is an amazing study…life changing!
I agree with Angella you won’t be disappointed and it will be life changing it was for me.
Thank you renee, this book was definately God ordained and alonged
With the bible study. Am signing up for the next one¡ lol so much rev
alation. Chapter 10 am still trying to process that ¡ it has been life changing
For me literly it has help me pack so much insecurity and fear an say no
More am desined for greatness not shame, not fear, not sickness, not feeling
Sorry formyself¡ no more dwelling on my flaws and mistakes ¡ because is in
My weakness he is the strongest when I let my complete trust fall to him
Is by grace he’s wonerdful grace he takes my mess and makes it he’s
Messaged. That what confident heart has done for me. Thank you sister for
Your obidience and your honesty because it set me free also. Your are
Trully a masterpiece of our creator¡ thank u lord for renee. Continue to enlarged
Her tent and give her continue streanth and favored in all areas of
Her life for she is your faithful servant your voice to your daughters
Of hope love and streanth.and for every
Single one of this sisters¡ you have desingned us for your glory
Let your will be done in our life and raise us up father manifes
t yourself
In our weakness tranforming them into our biggest streanth¡
for is threw them your masterpiece are formed. In jesus
Precious named I pray.
I was surprised when I read your post this morning as I have been reading “A Confident Heart” on my Kindle. It’s different not having a book in hand because you don’t realize you are nearing the end!! I too, think that I will be re-reading the book often and consulting all of my notes again and again! Thank you for a wonderful study!
It will not surprise you to know I am at a Starbucks doing my study. Actually, I read the final chapter a couple of nights ago. When I began the study I was preparing for a new semester at school. I spent Christmas break wondering if I would be separating form my husband or not, getting a job, staying in school, and dealing with all the struggles of 4 kids in my house. I entered the study wanting courage and encourage to do the “tough love” thing and not be a door mate anymore. I reviewed my first chapter questions in my journal:
#4) “See, I am doing a new thing.” (Isa. 43:19) Yes, You have Lord… I am still with my husband, one of the kids moved out on her own with my blessings, the two older girls kept us up most of the weekend dealing with their boy-issues, my son is adjusting to his new school and I am an intern for my college, taking 12 units and started my own blog last week.
I have started “More than just a good Bible Study girl” by Lysa in my church ladies group. When this is over I am going to volunteer to lead the next Bible Study “Confident Heart”. Yes, the Lord is doing a new thing.
I spent 4 hours yesterday printing out the verses on cards with the “what my head says”, What God says” part too. I made two copies for my 17 and 19 year old girls. They didn’t get home until late and got all the “issues” iron out for the present.
I created a special place in my house for me when our oldest moved out. I now have a place to talk to God and listen to Him at home, not just at Starbucks. My internship is exciting too. I’d appreciate all of your prayers for my Blog. http://gis-butterfly.blogspot.com
Today I am going to declare my faith. I wasn’t sure how I wanted to approach this, but I got the Air 1 scripture of the day : 2 Timothy 1:9 and Colossians 1:27 are a great begging. Thank you ladies, maybe we can keep the facebook page going and continue encouraging each other from there.
Shalom ~
Hey, I love your comment and I also went to your lovely blog! So encouraging. I saw you like needlework and my blog is a large portion of cross stitching antique samplers. I also blog about my faith and life. Would love to have you or others on here at my blog. It’s http://www.feathersinthenest.blogspot.com/
To this last chapter of the book, it is a sad ending as I was enjoying al the sisterhood here weekly. I have definitely had a special blessing when this started. I signed up for the Athen GA meeting and something came up so I saw this online and I think I’ve actually learned more by taking this long, chapter by chapter than I would have at the meeting.
I also declare my faith and during the last 11 weeks, my life has changed in many ways. Some I knew would in recovery of a divorce but many, many struggles that could have put me down but I seem to be blessed every day figuring out a way, putting it in God’s hands and faithfully knowing that He would never leave me like my family did. He would be here and I pray especially at night on my back porch as I look over the mountains and put the end of the day in God’s Hands. I have learned alot, in that putting positive thoughts, graceful and strong words of His wisdom around the house for reminders that I will make it.
Thank you for this online class. It’s made a huge difference in my life and I tried to pass that on and put your class motif on the right in the beginning of my blog’s side bar. I also posted on FB.
There are so many women without confidence and me included in some times but the positive thoughts and the timeline was very introspective.
Jennifer
Awesome Deena! Busy, exciting, and trying times!!! Let God redeem your marriage. He can work through really really broken places. School is a GREAT choice. Good for you!
This book and online study were just what my heart and mind needed and at the right time! Renee, you will continue to be an inspiration for me. I am so happy that I found you and Lysa in my life through PRO31. I am a few chapters behind in reading, so I will hopefully be able to finish those up this week and end with everyone else. God Bless you all. This has been a wonderful journey!
I struggle with feeling inferior and this study has helped to change my focus on Christ’s view of me. Thank you for allowing God to work through you and show Himself through you. I have learned so much.
I also have been so blessed!! I have grown over the past 11 weeks so much! My family and friends even notice the new confidence I have. I am sad this is our last chapter. I almost cried this morning!! I feel like I have made new friends that I am never going to see again! Thanks Rene for being obedient to your calling and for writing this book and sharing such personal stories with us! Love, Love, Love you!!
I read this last chapter last night. This book has been such a blessing. I started this study with a lot of unanswered questions (who I was in Christ, and what purpose does He have for me), and though I do not yet know what His purpose is for me, I feel so much hopeful than when I began this journey with you wonderful women. I have found more peach in my heart these last 11 weeks than the entirety of my walk with Christ since it really began in 2009. I have also attended 2 amazing seminars that companion well with this study. I have allowed Christ and my husband more access to life than I had been and though the outcome may have been not the most positive, I knew that with Christ I could get through whatever it was. Wouldn’t you all know, He blessed me beyond measure instead and that was more than I could’ve hoped for given the circumstance. Our God is so gracious and faithful ladies; there is no other like Him and I am so blessed to have learned all of this in the company of godly women across the continents.
Blessings to you all.
I am sad too that we are at the end. It is my second time through the book and with the online bible study. Congratulations Renee on this most amazing online study – your first! I continue to grow reading through the book again and I thank God for bringing you Renee, this book and P31 before me! May God continue to bless you and your teachings through the next Confident Heart online bible study!
God loves you Renee, and so do I!
Thank you Linda!! What a sweet blessing you are to me and Jesus!! I know you have blessed HIM and so many others as you have been seeking Him and living in the power of His promises for you. I’m so glad you were part of this online study!!
Hi, This has been an uphill struggle for me to get through the book…not because it isn’t good, but because of situations around me (and struggles in my head/heart). I will be reading chapter 11 soon. What God showed me is that even though I have been feeling weary…I haven’t given up. (Just like you said in the post on top of this page.) I was thinking that before I signed on and read your words.
Perhaps sometimes, even if we look a bit bedraggled at the end, just still “being there” is what counts. In my weakness…He is my strength.
Even more, what you said about Jesus desiring to live His life in us and through us. When you are weak, you realize this is the ONLY way it could ever happen…and to Him be ALL the glory!
Thank you for your work…and perseverance….I know that when you work to help others become free…the enemy is on your tail. So may you know you are “encamped” about by the Angel of the LORD (Jesus)…because you fear His Name. God bless you!
Oh Carla….parts have made me weary as well! I am finishing the race though! I won’t be one of the lovely ladies…..glistening with perspiration and looking pretty in a brand name jogging suit and new running shoes. I’ll be one of those dripping with sweat, ragged worn out shoes and snags in my clothes from falling down a good bit. HA But He has been with me, lifting me and encouraging me the entire time. It’s so been worth it.
Thank you, Renee….from my heart and soul. I will treasure this book and the notes I have taken….and this “retreat” like experience you have taken me on. My God, my God…..I needed it.
Way to go K!! So proud of you too – for persevering and believing that you are worth what it takes to get all that God has for you! And what an honor it is to be part of your journey – to be here cheering you on – praying for you and asking Jesus to remind you again and again of His truths that have set you free!
Carla!! I’m so proud of you for being here – when we show up He shows us in US and for us!! Praying for you to have quiet moments to steal away with Him to keep reading and letting HIM Love on you and encourage you. This is a journey and you are doing great – keep persevering my friend!! You bless me!!
This post is awesome! I’ve purchased some of the stuff online, but the thing I’m most curious about is the suntints, I brought au rose, are they sticky? Your blog is great! Yo&2#8u17;ve been bookmarked Kiewwa01 xx
This has been a great study…I am sad to have it come to an end but I feel like it is going to be a book that is on my must read once a year list just to keep the ideas fresh in my heart and mind. I love all the reminders of God and His faithfulness to us. Thanks for your teaching Renee,
I love the idea of reading it once a year – I need to do that too. Funny how God’s truths are new every morning and even when you write a book – you need to be reminded of them again and again. Stay in touch Beth — would love to keep hearing how God is working in your life and growing your confidence in HIM!!
It is amazing that we are already at the end of this study. I am amazed at myself at sticking with it to the end as i tend to start many things, but never finish. This book and the study that goes with it has really helped me with alot of my self doubt and my confidence around other people. I am a natural introvert, but am finding my voice because of the encouragement and teaching from an amazing teacher in you Renee. I know that God has been working in me, but still has some work to do. I find old habits try to rear their ugly heads, but with God all things are possible, and eventually I feel I can overcome them. And to know that we are chosen by God to carry out His word, and His love, just makes me feel….well….there is no words for it. God has blessed me through this study, and even though I wasn’t a regular commentor….i enjoyed reading many of the comments. Thank you again Renee and all you ladies that made this journey so amazing. Blessing to all thru the name of our Saviour Jesus Christ.
I”m so proud of you Sherri for sticking with it to the end and staying close to Jesus. I love that you drew encouragement from the study and others’ comments. I loved reading them too – even when I wasn’t able to comment. You all gave me just as much as I gave you!!
Praying this week’s chapter blessed you big!!
Haven’t read the chapter yet, but the fact that God has a plan for me and it is for His glory is Awesome!!!
Can’t wait for you to read the chapter and hear how amazing His plans are – just for you!!
This study has really blessed my heart and Im very thankful to you for sharing with us all! I will be going through it again and again because the truths are so very needed. I have written down the names of God and carry them in my purse, have one beside my bed and copied them onto my phone so that they are available to me at any time!Im really sad that we have come to the end also! I so enjoyed this study and it has me thinking in ways never thought of before! Thank you so much Renee
Thank you Kari for sharing how much this study has meant to you – and all the ways you are getting God’s Names in front of you. I love that you are putting them on your phone. That is a great idea!!
Praying you will keep A Confident Heart by your bedside and pull it out as you need to remember His promises and confidence in you as HIS child!! And if you want some extra encouragement, hop over here any time. We’ll be reading through the book again starting April 23rd.
Wow, I could not have said it better myself Kari! I too have been blessed by this study. It was challenging as well as refreshing. Yesterday, in my diabetic journal i had written the acronym for G.R.A.C.E. and on of the names of the Lord that i would think on. However, the funny is i wrote the acronym wrong instead of Riches i had put in Redemption. which works too because we have been redeemed by the blood of Jesus. I too Renee am sad because i truely enjoyed reading everyones post and was encouraged by their words though i did not post much it has truely been inspiring. What i learned in chapter 11 can be summed up in this. That i really know that God loves me just the way He created me and knows every part of me. My desire is to please Him with my life and to do that which he wants me to do. Renee, thank you for sharing your life both the ups and downs it was very encouraging. I love the story of Gideon. I have read it over and over again and trusting God to be my Jehovah Jirah- my provider and El Shaddai-My ALL Sufficent one. I will write them all down and keep them with me so i will remember who he is and also the ones that say who i am in him. Blessings to you Renee and again Thank you!