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Tuesday, April 28, 2015

‘Refuge’ (Day 3) Martha’s Refuge




Read Psalm 46

Make a list of things for which you have waited or are waiting for. Place a star or asterisk by the things that take the most patience in waiting.

Read John 11

·         Why do you suppose Jesus delayed going to Bethany? Why do you think Jesus said that this sickness would not end in death, but yet Lazarus died?

·         Put your own name into verse 5: “Jesus love(s)…” And yet, at times we tell Jesus our problems and no answer seems to come. Why do you suppose Jesus delays His answers to us? When delays to prayers happen, how do you react? What do you do?

·         How is Martha’s faith in Jesus evident in how she first greets Him? How is the weakness of her faith evident?

·         How do you greet answers that Jesus brings you? How do you show evidence of your faith in Him as your refuge from all problems?

·         How does our wishing for ”what might have been” get in the way of our belief? How can you strengthen your faith?

o   Psalm 119:28

o   Isaiah 41:10

o   Romans 1:11-12

o   Ephesians 3.16

Jesus doesn’t scold or explain, He simply tells Martha, “Your brother will rise again.” And Martha proclaims her belief in the final refuge for all believers: “I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.” Read aloud Jesus’ response and Martha’s confession of faith in John 11:25-27

God always answers our prayers in ways that are best for us, in ways that bring Him glory, and in ways that further His kingdom. Think of ways in which the Lord has answered your prayers of need and refuge. How did His answers meet your needs?  Bring Him glory? Meet the needs of others? Bring about good for His kingdom?
 

1 comment:

  1. Ok, I have been reading this chapter in Psalms on and off for two weeks now and this morning my eyes are open to what God is saying to me;
    my thoughts on Psalm 46;
    Wow, we are headed for uproar in this land if not already. Many stormes on earth and they could very well be within our own circumstances. God reminded us that we need only to be still and know that He is God (v.10). With authority He says that HE IS OUR REFUGE AND STRENGTH; THEREFORE WE WILL NOT FEAR, thow the earth give way. The LORD ALMIGHTY IS WITH US. verse 8a says, Come see the works of the LORD. (He has won the fight for us)
    These are not please for approval or swaying request that God is asking us to do. NO! He is saying, COME! NOW! I AM HEAR FOR YOU! You need not wait any longer.
    I am comforted and uplifted to know and believe that our God has over come the storms around me. It is not for me to fear or worry. But to be still and to give Him my time, my quiet time each day so that I my be strengthened for the days to come. God is Good! Amen.

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