There are Jesus things we learn when we are in Bible study at a retreat; and there are seemingly peripheral things we learn that are floating on the outside, but also exist in the depths of your soul. It’s the things we don’t talk about in Bible study with others because it’s too deep, and we can’t put words to it. It’s the Holy Spirit moment that grabs you and brings a lifetime of work to a single moment.
I left for the weekend retreat with obedience. I have to admit that my mind was swallowed by hopeless fear. If I can be honest, it centered around relationships that seem broken and years of no change. When you are in your 20’s you get this idea if you study, pray, and do that maybe all will be perfect. In my 40’s, I know otherwise.
Spending time with my mother before I left for the retreat was very special. I asked this 80 something year old woman, “How does one live with no change and no hope for change?” She reminded me of the simple truth but hard to faithfully embrace that “Jesus is our only hope –the unchangeable love of Jesus is where we put all our hope.”
We can live in the madness of the imperfections in ourselves, others, and situations, or choose to rest in His love.
Throughout the weekend, I saw generations worshiping together–daughters, moms, grandmothers. The generations come and go–what legacy will you leave behind?
Honest conversations came up with my girls about imperfections that exist in our home. The only solution is Jesus and God’s Word. As a mother, I want so much more for my girls. I think I’ve made this my pursuit to a fault. I’ve become a worried mess. Is that God’s will? No.
If you read between the lines, I know the Spirit will talk to you. Jesus. He is all we need. Jesus. He is our only hope. Jesus-through all generations of imperfections, consequences, sin, struggles….
John 16:33
33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Jesus has overcome all your imperfections. Rest in Him.
10,000 Reasons……
The sun comes up, it’s a new day dawning
It’s time to sing Your song again
Whatever may pass, and whatever lies before me
Let me be singing when the evening comes
[Chorus]
Bless the Lord, O my soul
O my soul
Worship His holy name
Sing like never before
O my soul
I’ll worship Your holy name
You’re rich in love, and You’re slow to anger
Your name is great, and Your heart is kind
For all Your goodness I will keep on singing
Ten thousand reasons for my heart to find
ARRESTED BY GRACE 
How I love this Post, Anna!!! I know your heart when you say “…I want so much more for my girls!” That GLORY ACHE, remember when we talked of that ages ago?! Our hearts long for total satisfaction that can only be found deep in Christ!! And we ache for it, we long for it! And we want it for our children more than ANYTHING else; more than jobs, homes, spouses, careers, money!!! Peace, rest, hope, joy, delight in Jesus Christ…..THAT is what we long for in ourselves *and in our children*!
I love that you have this opportunity to go on these retreats with your lovely girls!!! God is so good! Thank you for sharing and passing on His Ways and His Truth to the next generation! love you girlfriend, melinda 🙂
On Wed, Oct 9, 2013 at 6:34 AM, ARRESTED BY GRACE wrote:
> ** > womanofworthmentoringministries posted: “There are Jesus things we > learn when we are in Bible study at a retreat; and there are > seemingly peripheral things we learn that are floating on the outside, but > also exist in the depths of your soul. It’s the things we don’t talk about > in Bible study wi”
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I so remember many discussions with you about “glory aches”. I pray we have many more Melinda. God is so good and faithful. So good. Your message to me this morning is healing, soothing, and brings joy. Thank you sweet friend for walking this journey with me! I love you deeply!
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