When we started this study I wondered how our "When Women Say Yes to God" book would keep us busy for an entire bible study. After all, it was all about saying YES to God; how many ways could could Lysa (TerKeurst) possibly share with us?
Last night as I sat down on my hotel bed, while working in Morristown, NJ, I prepared for my quiet time. I went to God in prayer, as always, and asked Him to provide me with the perfect words; words that are life changing and transforming. He never disappoints. As I scanned my book, reading the bright yellow highlighted words, I realized just how many ways there are to say Yes to God. Quote after quote, verse after verse I read.
Throughout this study I too said YES to being radically obedient! God first ~ in all things ~ all the time. To do this requires spending time in His word, in prayer, and in listening for his instructions. I will live aware of His presence and respond in radical obedience to whatever He asks of me, only then will I continue to grow closer to Him. Only then will I become the Jesus girl He desires me to be.
I said YES to radical obedience in my marriage. Regardless of circumstances (and there are many), I said YES to my marriage. I have been married for 20 years and am committed to my husband. Some days we may be the honeymooners and others we may be walking a tightrope over Niagara Falls. However, I stand committed to this man I said yes to on May 29, 1993. It is my prayer that God will change ME so I can be His perfect bride ~ and with that become the Proverbs 31 woman, and wife God instructs me to be in my marriage. Even in the turbulent storms, I will stand firm in obedience.
My children - Although they are grown, I said YES to being a Godly mother to my children. It is my goal to live my life in such a way that they will see God in me. I want to be the light in their lives, sharing God's Word throughout every trial and tribulation, teaching them about radical obedience as I continue to grow in my own. I wasn't always the role model I should have been and I watch my children make many of the same mistakes I did. My mama's heart breaks. Today I say YES to being a loving Godly mother; the teacher I couldn't be many years ago, praying hearts will soften and open to this amazing God who provides for, blesses, and loves us every day - regardless of our mistakes, regardless of our failures.
Being radically obedient means telling the story to multiply His kingdom. It means loving others and serving others as God serves us. We don't get to pick and choose. Where He leads, we follow. The need is great. War surrounds us and people are lost. One by one we must reach them as we are taught in His Word. We are truly disciples, His hands and feet. Today I say YES to serving Him, radically - in all things, all the time.
Each morning I pray, 'Mold me and make me Father, Empower me to become the best I can spiritually and physically so that I can carry out every desire of Your heart. Remind me to be radically obedient. Bless me with the words and scripture to share with those in need so they too can find peace and hope in you. Teach me to be a vessel in all things, for You.
It is this prayer I also pray for you! What a truly amazing study this has been! I pray that you too will commit to becoming radically obedient to God in your life. It is truly transforming.
I hope you will join us for another awesome bible study with Proverbs 31 Ministries. Our next book is by Renee Swope. Renee shares her heart and stories from her life as she worked to find 'A Confident Heart'. What a blessing this book has been on the life of so many!
