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Between the Storms

I was blessed to attend the LWML Rocky Mountain District Retreat last weekend, with author Deb Burma leading sessions from her newly published Bible study, Be Still & Know. Approximately 50 women (and one pastoral counselor!) came to enjoy this study of God’s Word. I don’t believe I’ve ever attended a Bible study where I didn’t learn something new and find inspiration. The photo with this blog was a view from the deck of the lodge — this alone was inspirational! I’d like to share with you some of those insights and hope you find them as enlightening as I have.

Deb Burma asked the group, “Are you in the midst of a storm or between storms?” Isn’t that true? In this life, storms are inevitable and ongoing. Many storms are naturally occurring, and many are caused by man — all are allowed by our Father for our benefit. What? Yes, God allows storms in our life to strengthen our faith and to teach us to trust our Savior in all things.

One participant said she doesn’t ask why she’s been placed in a particular situation. She asks, “What is it God would like me to learn?” I’m not always that mature in my faith! I often shout, “Why, God?” Listening to women like this beautiful lady inspires me to look at every storm in a new light.

Deb continued by explaining that when God, in Psalm 46:10a, says, “Be still,” He is not commanding us with a heavy hand, but issuing a grace-filled invitation to rest in Him. How wonderful to be invited to come before our Savior and rest at His feet! Jesus may not take our storms away, but He is our refuge and our strength.

I’d rather have calm seas and smooth sailing than storms, wouldn’t you? I’m quite sure I bring many storms upon myself! But as long as I am not alone, I can endure the assault of the world, the barrage of criticism, and the downpour of overextending myself. Yet I am not alone, for the Father is with me (John 16:32b).

Take time to “Be still.” Rest at the Lord’s feet right now — in the midst of a storm or between storms — find refuge in God!

Today, and always, we are surrounded by HIS grace,
Debbie

“Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations. I will be exalted in the
earth!” .

Psalm 46:10

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More Bible Study! Yes!


LWML Executive Committee members are eager to welcome you to the
Mobile Convention Center, June 20-23, 2019!

One thing comes up on evaluations for all conventions whether it’s a district or national LWML convention or zone events and that’s, “Need more time for Bible study”. I know a lot of districts have Christian Life conferences or retreats. I hope yours does! We have a new women’s day retreat called, “Let’s Grab Our Shoes and Go!”

At our convention in Mobile this June, if you get up early, you can choose from eight Bible studies happening between 6:45-7:45 on Friday and Saturday mornings at the convention center before convention starts. Four each morning. The Saturday one conflicts with the Mission Walk but we know not everyone can do the Walk so why not go study God’s Word? Or you can walk really early or fast and make it to one. Here’s the list of what’s being offered. Thanks to these Bible study leaders who are volunteering their time and sharing their knowledge to lead these studies.

Yes, I know that it will still show up on the evaluations but it’s a great sign that LWML women LOVE to study God’s Word—our mission inspiration!—we never get enough!

Friday, June 21, 2019

  1. An LWML Bible Study, led by Terri Bentley from the new retreat, “Let’s Grab Our Shoes and Go”.
  2. A Spanish-language LWML Bible Study, led by Deaconess Marta Luna.
  3. A CPH-sponsored Bible Study, led by Christina Hergenrader entitled “Create Olive Branches in Your Family Tree”.
  4. An LWML Bible Study, led by Karol Selle entitled “A Missionary? Me?”. 

Saturday, June 22, 2019

  1. Bible study led by author/speaker Donna Pyle, “Perseverance: A Prayer Battle Plan”.
  2. A Bible Study led by the LCMS Black Ministries Director, Rev. Dr. Roosevelt Gray
  3. Ministry to the Armed Forces Bible study by Chaplain Craig Muehler.
  4. A CPH-sponsored Bible Study, led by Deb Burma entitled “JOY! -Philippians, the Letter of Joy”. 

Hoping to see you in Mobile! Patti

“If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:31-32)