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Dianne Thornton

Dianne Thornton

December 31, 2014 · 15 Comments

Broken is Beautiful

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The Christian Life

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Is your heart broken? Is your life broken? It's OK. God loves broken people. In His eyes, broken is beautiful.
This year our family went to Disney World for Christmas. Yes, it was a delightful, magical time! We took our kids to Magic Kingdom when they were very young; we took them again and added Epcot when they were a little older. Now they are teens, and we took them everywhere. The wonder never changes, even with It’s a Small World! We came back through Pensacola and stayed for a couple of nights before coming home.

The first morning there, my husband got up for the sunrise and took my daughters with him. They came back to our room with several large, thick pieces of broken sand dollars. (If they were whole, I’m guessing they would be 5-6 inches in diameter with a center over a half an inch thick.) In Texas we find broken ones, too; but they are quite small and thin. So the next morning I joined them, hoping to find my perfect treasure (a whole one) by being out early.

I looked and looked, but found only broken pieces. Although beautiful in their own way, I was disappointed that I didn’t find what I was looking for. And as I stood on the sand, gazing at the clear, green sea, the Lord spoke to my heart. Why are you looking for a perfect sand dollar? Isn’t a broken one equally as beautiful?

It’s true. We tend to seek beauty in perfection, and are only satisfied once we find it. Upon closer inspection, though, what we really find is the imperfect, hidden beneath a facade. We hide unwanted curves under carefully crafted couture, facial blemishes beneath costly concealers. You name it, if our culture finds a flaw, it manufactures a way to mask it.

Broken is what we are. Broken is where we live.

Sometimes the imperfect comes in the form of personal brokenness–a heart that is desperate and at the end of itself. This is the most painful to live with, and the most difficult to hide. Natural instinct tells us that being broken is not acceptable. We don’t always recognize it; and if we do, we often try to hide it beneath the veneer of activity and masked emotions.  It doesn’t matter if our broken lives are the result of an overdrive lifestyle or because of laziness; substance abuse, emotions out of control, or financial ruin … or heartache and personal loss.

God loves a broken heart!

God sees past all of that. He knows we are broken and in need of healing only He can give. And He wants to! When we come to the Lord, acknowledging the mess of our lives, He draws near to us (James 4:8), gives us His comfort, and begins the healing process.

Is your heart broken? Is your life broken? It's OK. God loves broken people. In His eyes, broken is beautiful.The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed. (Psalm 34:18)

The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit. You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God. (Psalm 51:17) 

He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. (Psalm 147:3)

The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is upon me, for the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to comfort the brokenhearted and to proclaim that captives will be released and prisoners will be freed … To all who mourn in Israel, he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair. (Isaiah 61:1, 3)

He has made everything beautiful in its time. (Ecclesiastes 3:11 NIV) 

We are broken people living among broken people. When God heals us, broken becomes beautiful! Click to Tweet

There is a difference in a sand dollar that is freshly broken, and one whose pieces have been worn soft with water and time. The first one is sharp and brittle. In its freshly broken state, it wounds others easily. The other has a completely different character. The rough edges have become smooth, new lines are created. It has a new purpose–sometimes providing safety and shelter for another sea creature.

Broken Is Beautiful

That’s what God does for us. Sometimes we are not “put back together” the way we envision. Instead, God creates a new purpose for us–often putting us together with other broken pieces. With His love and grace, He heals our broken hearts and gives us a new start. In turn, we give other broken hearts lots of room to heal in a wide field of grace.

For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? (Isaiah 43:19)

And the one sitting on the throne said, ‘Look, I am making everything new!” (Revelation 21:5)

This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! (2 Corinthians 5:17)

I put my collection of broken sand dollar pieces on my desk as a reminder. It’s ok to be broken. It’s ok for others to be broken. We don’t have to hide our hurts. Instead, we go to the Lord and let Him heal us. Then we extend to others the healing grace we received from Him (2 Corinthians 1:3-7). What a great way to leave 2014 and begin a new year. Will you join me?

Below are several songs that I love that speak to the hearts of the Broken. When I am struggling with life, I remember something my mom told me over and over, “Nestle, don’t wrestle.” If you are feeling broken and bruised, choose one and listen to it. Nestle close to your Heavenly Father. He loves you so.

“Broken and Beautiful” — by Mark Schultz1

 

“Better Than a Hallelujah” — by Amy Grant2

Honestly, when I first heard this song, I didn’t like it. How could anything be better than offering praise to the Lord? Every time it came on the radio, I switched the station. One day I decided to listen carefully to the words–then I fell in love with it.

In 1 Samuel 13, King Saul was waiting for the prophet Samuel to arrive to offer sacrifices to the Lord; but Samuel was delayed. King Saul’s men became afraid because the nearby army was gathering to attack. In an effort settle them down and keep them from running away, Saul did not wait for Samuel. He wrongly assumed the priestly duties and offered the sacrifices himself. Two chapters later, Saul defeated the Amalikites, but did not destroy them completely, as God had commanded. He saved the best of the livestock as plunder and did not kill the king. When Samuel arrived, he confronted Saul with his disobedience and said to him,

What is more pleasing to the Lord: your burnt offerings and sacrifices or your obedience to his voice? Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice, and submission is better than offering the fat of rams. (1 Samuel 15:22)

In Amy’s song, although a sacrifice of praise is beautiful, when we are in a mess and our lives are broken, God wants something else.

The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit. You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God. (Psalm 51:17) 

 

“The Broken Beautiful” — by Ellie Holcomb3 


Thank you for reading and commenting on my blog this year! I’ve enjoyed getting to know you. It’s a blessing to me that you take the time to come by.

I’ve had fun and been challenged in many ways. I hope you have, too. More than anything, I pray that you have grown closer to Jesus this year and have fallen more in love with His Word to us. Indeed, it is sweeter than honey (Psalm 119:103).

Blessings to to you as we end 2014 and move forward to 2015!!

1Schultz, Mark, writer. Broken & Beautiful. Word/Curb/Warner Bros, 2006, CD
2Amy Grant. Better Than A Hallelujah. Amy Grant Productions under Exclusive License to Sparrow Records, 2010, CD.
3Ellie Holcomb. The Broken Beautiful. Full Heart Music, 2014, CD.

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Comments

  1. bulldog says

    December 31, 2014 at 8:51 am

    Loved this post… most inspiring…

  2. Mary Alice says

    December 31, 2014 at 9:22 am

    I love the visual of a newly broken sand dollar vs. one that has been broken and weathered. Just because it is broken doesn’t mean it is useless. Thank you for these words this morning! I am praising God that His ways are amazingly better than mine.

  3. Deb Wolf says

    December 31, 2014 at 10:17 am

    Hi Dianne, I’m visiting from Meredith’s. Broken is beautiful. Ten years ago, the life I’d dreamed and planned fell apart. God took those broken dreams and my broken heart and pieced them back together into something new and beautiful. I’m forever thankful. His ways are always better! Blessings to you!

  4. johnmarkmiller says

    December 31, 2014 at 12:14 pm

    A beautiful perspective on brokenness… it never ceases to amaze me to see how His touch can bring beauty from ashes.

    Happy 2015 to you and your family!

  5. Dianne Thornton says

    December 31, 2014 at 12:58 pm

    Thanks so much for coming by, Deb. I love stories like this. They are especially encouraging.

  6. Mark Stolz says

    December 31, 2014 at 1:13 pm

    This reminds me of Kintsugi, where the broken vessel is made more beautiful than original.

  7. Bev Duncan @ Walking Well With God says

    December 31, 2014 at 2:08 pm

    Dianne,
    Love the song “Better Than A Hallelujah” by Amy Grant. Thank you so much for reminding us that God welcomes us in our brokenness…He is our Jehovah Rophe – our Healer! Who better to bring our brokenness to than God?
    Blessings,
    Bev

  8. Karen Brown says

    December 31, 2014 at 3:12 pm

    Loved this! Only when we are broken can we be remade by Him into something beautiful. Thanks for sharing your gift.

  9. Dianne Thornton says

    December 31, 2014 at 4:36 pm

    Thank you, Bev. God is sooo sweet to us. We are safe with Him!!

  10. Dianne Thornton says

    December 31, 2014 at 4:37 pm

    I have not heard of that, Mark. I will look check that out! Thanks for commenting today!

  11. Dianne Thornton says

    December 31, 2014 at 4:39 pm

    Thank you, Mary Alice. Very sweet. “Just because it is broken doesn’t mean it is useless.” So true. <3

  12. Dianne Thornton says

    January 1, 2015 at 1:00 pm

    Thanks, Karen. Broken is where we need to live. Blessings on your New Year!

  13. theresnoplacelikehome05 says

    January 1, 2015 at 5:17 pm

    Wow, your analogy of sand dollars and broken hearts was very good. I am so encouraged by this post! My prayer is that God would continue to change my perception. I hope to look at the world in a different way in 2015. Happy New Year! Be Blessed!

  14. betsydecruz says

    January 2, 2015 at 8:53 am

    Hi Dianne. Your mother was a wise woman! I love that “nestle, don’t wrestle.” Brokenness is a part of our lives, but how wonderful to know that God transforms it into something beautiful.

  15. sarahgirl3 says

    January 2, 2015 at 12:31 pm

    You are so right. Why do we expect perfection when God doesn’t?
    I love those songs, they speak to my heart.

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Mar 20

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This week in our small group study, I felt the Lord’s gentle chastisement. 

We looked at the promise in Luke 11:28, “He [Jesus] replied, ‘Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.’”

At first glance, the promise of blessing comes from obedience. But it’s much more. 

In the preceding verses, Jesus had cast out a demon that caused a man to be mute. The crowd accused Him of casting out a demon with Satan’s power. 

Jesus explained how ridiculous it would be for Satan to drive out his own demons. Then a woman cries out, “Blessed is the mother who gave you birth and nursed you,” (v 27). 

This is the sticking point. Jesus was in the middle of an important discourse when this woman interrupts Him. He corrects her with this:

✨ Blessed are those who HEAR the word of God and obey it. 

That word HEAR means to LISTEN with FULL ATTENTION. 

✨ We cannot truly obey God if we don’t know what He’s saying to us. 

Basically, Jesus told this woman, and the others in the crowd, “Pay attention!! Don’t get distracted from my voice. I have important things to tell you. You won’t know what they are and what I want you to do, if all you’re thinking about is what you want to say or how you can gain attention. Put your attention on ME.”

It’s never fun to be Jesus’s object lesson. 

The questions I’m asking myself …

✨ What keeps me from spending time alone with Jesus?

✨ When I finally get alone with Him, what distracts me? 

✨ What keeps me from focusing on God’s Word? 

✨ What causes my kind to wander when I’m praying?

➡️ Eliminating distractions …
➡️ Exercising discipline …

… to bring every thought captive to the obedience of Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5) 

… brings true blessing. 

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Jan 3

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I’m reading through Proverbs again, a habit my dad taught me when I was young. One Proverb a day each month. I’ve read through this book so many times, yet the Holy Spirit illumines new truth with each read. 

“The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: for gaining wisdom and instruction; for understanding words of insight; for receiving instruction in prudent behavior, doing what is right and just and fair; for giving prudence to those who are simple, knowledge and discretion to the young.” (Proverbs 1:1–4, NIV)

➡️ Prudence in Hebrew means to “act with insight.” 

➡️ Additionally, in Proverbs 1:4, we learn that the simple person can gain prudence. 

➡️ Anyone who wants to, can become wise. 

➡️ But we must seek it. 

❓Have you ever read through Proverbs on a regular basis? 🙋‍♀️
❓Won’t you join me in reading a Proverb a day and gaining biblical wisdom? 🙋‍♀️

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Something GOOD is coming in 🎄2023🎄⁠
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Christmas Advent is probably my favorite time of the year. Yes, I do love the hustle and bustle to some extent. I am an avid chaser of Christmas light displays. And the music! Is there any music more glorious than that which proclaims our Savior’s birth? ⁠
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But this year, my heart yearns for something different, and I’m not exactly sure what that is. I have a pretty good idea, though. ⁠
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SO — I built a framework to journal through this advent season. The resulting content will be the foundation for what comes next year. ⁠
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Because advent is so tender, I don’t think you can start writing about it in March, or even in January. You have to capture the anticipation in the moment. And that’s what I intend to do. ⁠
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I will keep y’all posted as things move along!!! ⁠
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(eeeek! I announced it — now I have to do it! Thankfully — FAITHFUL IS HE WHO CALLS US, WHO WILL ALSO DO IT! 2 Thess 5:24)⁠
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It’s been about a week since we “fell back” to Standard Time. Many mourn the loss of daylight hours and post their frustration on social media. But I’m thinking about Christmas and how we celebrate light. In some ways, this frustration is a celebration. It reveals our deep need for light and how we suffer without it.⁠
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It impacts all of us.⁠
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I don’t think it’s an accident that we have this quiet desperation over encroaching darkness exactly when we do. Every day for the next 5 weeks, we will continue to lose bits of daylight. Around December 20-22, comes the Winter Solstice, the day with the least amount of sunlight. A few days later, in this darkness, we celebrate the Light of the World!⁠
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Read more from the link in my bio!⁠
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Hey Friends! I have a special treat 🍬 for you today. 

Thanksgiving 🦃 is a few weeks away and I have TWO 5-Day Bible Studies ready for your “Thanksgiving Advent.” Both are available on Etsy individually, or as a bundle. (Link in bio)

✅ These mini Bible studies are “work at your own pace.” 

📖 GIVING THANKS by Pondering the Wonderful Works of the Lord focuses on being thankful for *specific things*.

📖 GIVING GRATEFUL PRAISE (🥳BRAND NEW🥳) focuses on 7 word studies in Psalm 100 that deepen our worship for who God is.

🙏 Together, they cultivate an attitude of thanksgiving all year long! 

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It’s been a minute since I’ve posted here. But some things are just too good to keep to yourself!⁠
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Recently my husband and I began leading a small group with our church. Because there is so much uncertainly in the world, he suggested we study how God keeps every promise He makes. It has been a source of encouragement for all of us. The great news is that no matter what is going on in our world, we can trust God because He keeps every promise He makes.⁠
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New post on the blog to encourage you today!! ⁠Click link in bio 😍⁠
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As we mature, however, childlike awe dissipates. “Adulting” replaces wonder. Pressure to find the right gift, decorate the tree just so, and prepare Pinterest-worthy meals can steal the true joy that Christmas brings. I've found that intentionally anticipating Christ's birth during the Christmas Advent season brings true joy.

✨I’ve curated a list of my favorite Advent devotionals and Bible studies. There is something for everyone! ✨

✨ How do YOU like to celebrate Christmas Advent? ✨

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May 26

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THERE IS NOTHING QUITE LIKE THE FEELING OF LOSING YOUR FOOTING.⁠
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I should know. I’m an expert at the slip-and-fall. In the rain with flip flops that have lost their tread. On frozen snow in hiking boots that are supposed to have grip. Even in my kitchen when I’m wearing my slippers. (Why are they called that???) Then there was that time I trekked out across some sand to grab a bucket and ended up knee deep in drilling mud.⁠
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In those times we are NOT in control, and we know it. We take a few steps, falter, and realize we are going down. ⁠
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Suffering can be like that—but there is no humor in it.⁠
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We all walk through suffering. Sometimes it feels so dark and deep we can’t see what’s ahead. ⁠
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🎵I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. (Ps 40:1-2)⁠
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Our road seems slippery, and we may feel we have no hope. But God is near, and He hears our cries. As we draw near to Him, He gives us a new perspective and firm footing. He also gives us a song of joy amid our suffering.⁠
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🎵 He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in him. (Ps 40:3)⁠
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This song of praise is for the express purpose of encouraging others who are suffering so they too can draw near to the Lord and experience His peace and the abundant life He came to give. ⁠
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This is how a watching world comes to know God. They see our suffering. But they also see a heart that trusts God during it. A heart that is not bitter, but one that sings for joy. ⁠
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Do you know a fellow sufferer who willingly shares their song of joy? How has their example encouraged you?⁠
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Feb 17

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AS HIS FAITHFUL SERVANT, GOD HAS **SET YOU APART** ➡️ FOR HIMSELF!!⁠
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Wow. That's powerful. ⁠
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Do you have something very special that you keep in a special place -- just for you? (I'm not talking about hiding those special cookies. 😉😂)⁠
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I love coffee mugs. But certain mugs are different than the others. One was a gift from a special friend. One looks a lot like one my grandfather let me drink from when I visited my grandparents. One is from Disney, and I don't let ANYONE use that one! ⁠
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Yes, these are "just things." But they are special to me, and anytime I pull one of these mugs out of the cabinet, I remember why it's special. Why it's different from the mugs that match my dishes.⁠
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In the Old Testament, “set apart” means to be ...⁠
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=> distinctly different.<= ⁠
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You are God’s faithful servant. He made you distinctly different from everyone else—for His purposes. God’s purposes for you are distinctly different from anyone else’s. ⁠
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In the New Testament when we read the words “set apart,” they have the added meaning of being sanctified, or holy.⁠
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God created you => to be holy for holy purposes. <=⁠
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One such purpose is to be a messenger of the gospel of peace (Ephesians 6:15)--showing others how they can be reconciled to God. What a privilege we have to be His messengers!⁠
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My prayer for you is the same as that of Paul's at the close of his letter to the Ephesian church: ⁠
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Whenever you speak [or write], may God give you words so you will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel and that you may declare it fearlessly, as you should. (Ephesians 6:19-20)⁠
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Be blessed today as you proclaim the gospel of peace to a world that is crying out for it!!⁠
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✨ What other holy purposes has God called you to?⁠
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#GodsPurpose #SetApart #TheGospel ⁠
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Feb 10

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PSALM 15 IS SHORT, YET JAM-PACKED WITH GOODNESS.⁠ ⁠⁠
Tough goodness, but goodness all the same. I had to include all of it in my images. Scroll through the pages so you don't miss any of it.⁠⁠
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When I journaled through this Psalm, I was knee-deep in the edits for my Bible study, STANDING FIRM IN CHRIST: Biblical Principles for Fighting Spiritual Battles. Edits from my awesome editor and edits from my sweet friends who wanted this Bible study to be its best.⁠⁠
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Let me tell you, allowing trusted friends inside your writing world is scary! It's a good thing, but it can also sting. As I read through the psalmist's words, God brought a principle to my mind. You know the one--what's in our hearts shows up in our words (and even our thoughts!!).⁠⁠
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Psalm 15, explains that the *blameless person* enjoys a close relationship with God, and describes this person in detail. ⁠⁠
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This person SPEAKS TRUTH FROM THE HEART. In other words, it's not just the words this person speaks, but the response to difficult words! I wrote the following in my journal:⁠⁠
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"A blameless person's speech is wholesome. She doesn't just not curse--she encourages. AND she accepts criticism without being critical."⁠⁠
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Wow. That can be hard to do. Receiving edits can be a challenge. But what about when someone who cares about you confronts you (in love) about a difficult life issue? ⁠⁠
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How we respond to criticism is a test of what's really in our hearts.⁠⁠
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When our hearts are tender and match up with God's truth, our lives are built on a firm foundation that will never be shaken.⁠⁠
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✨ What other truths can we remember to keep our hearts tender instead of tough and critical?⁠⁠
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#DianneThorntonTX #DianneMicroBlog #MiniBibleStudies  #FaithfulFollowers⁠ #StandingFirmBibleStudy⁠⁠
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#TruthInLove #Psalm15 ⁠⁠
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#ReadingTheWord #EveryDayWithJesus #BibleAndCoffee  #QuietTimeWithJesus #BibleBlog #BibleQuotesOfTheDay #FixYourEyesOnJesus #ReadTheBibleDaily #ScriptureDaily #JesusChick #StudyTheBible #GodsWisdom #BibleStudies #GodIsEnough #MorningDevo #WordOfLife #BibleScriptures #WordBeforeWorld #Devotions  #JesusFollower

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Feb 8

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OUR THOUGHTS OF GOD ARE NOT GREAT ENOUGH. -- J. I. Packer⁠
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The Scripture focus for Chapter 3 of ENJOYING INTIMACY WITH GOD, is Isaiah 40, which holds many favorite passages, including:⁠
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"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." (Isaiah 40:31, NIV)⁠
⁠
Isaiah 40 is lengthy, but oh, so beautiful. It was written to encourage Israel after her discipline (captivity in Babylon) was completed. God wanted them to know that He was fully worthy of their trust. ⁠
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It is an interesting contrast. It describes man’s utter weakness—and God’s transcendence. But this God who is so other than anything we know, LOVES **US**. The God who made the universe, who holds the oceans in His hands, who never grows weary—is our friend. ⁠
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Sanders shares the first verse from “How Great Thou Art.” It is fitting. ⁠
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O Lord, my God, when I in awesome wonder⁠
Consider all the worlds Thy Hands have made⁠
I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder⁠
Thy power throughout the universe displayed.⁠
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In what ways, as you move forward to serve our King, do you need to fully depend on God? ⁠
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I've been on somewhat of a social media hiatus--working tirelessly with my husband on some much needed household repairs/updates. Finding my way and rhythm back into this special world is a bit overwhelming!⁠
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Let's remember, God goes before us and strengthens us for all He calls us to do.⁠
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#DianneThorntonTX #DianneMicroBlog #MiniBibleStudies  #FaithfulFollowers⁠
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#JOswaldSanders #EnjoyingIntimacyWithGod #HowGreatThouArt #JIPacker⁠
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Nov 18

Open
HOLY FATHER, GIVE ME GREAT LOVE FOR YOUR WORD AND THE TRUTH IN IT.⁠
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May the Holy Spirit illumine truth as I read its pages. Teach me to use your Sword as my weapon against Satan.⁠
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Help me to study it well, hiding its treasures in my heart.⁠
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Bring to mind truth from Your Word for my needs today. ⁠
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In Jesus's Name,⁠
Amen!⁠
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Collecting Scriptures as we read God's Word can be a great help for when we face temptation. Writing them in a journal on an index card or a sticky note keeps them "at the ready" for when we need them.⁠
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If you struggle with memorizing Scripture, I have a resource to help you hide God's Word in your heart:⁠
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The PSALMS Meditation Method is a set of worksheets that guides your meditation process so that you know a verse thoroughly, even though you may not have "memorized" it.⁠
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You can find it in my SHOP under "Bible Study Helps." (See the Instagram links in my bio.)⁠
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#DianneThorntonTX #DianneMicroBlog #MiniBibleStudies  #FaithfulFollowers ⁠#SwordOfTheSpirit ⁠
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#StandingFirmBibleStudy #ArmorOfGod🗡🛡#CharacterOfChrist #PrayerIsAWeapon #WholeArmorOfGod #Ephesians 610 #StandFirmInYourFaith #BeStrongInTheLord #NamesOfGod #ArmorOfGodStudy #standfirminchrist #newbiblestudy #SpiritualBattles #NameOfGod  #standfirminthefaith #fullarmorofgod #Christlikeness #Ephesians6 #VictoryInJesus⁠

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Nov 12

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HOLY FATHER, PROTECT MY MIND WITH THE TRUTH FROM YOUR WORD.⁠ Bring to mind Scripture I have stored in my heart for my needs today. ⁠
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Where my mind is too busy, remind me to be still and know that You are God (Psalm 46:10) so I can sense the Holy Spirit's leading. ⁠
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For any thoughts that do not honor You, remind me to ⁠
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--set aside these thoughts⁠
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--shift my thinking⁠
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--and focus on things that are true, admirable, excellent, and worthy of praise. ⁠
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In essence, I choose to worship YOU rather than anything else.⁠ (Philippians 4:8-9)⁠
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As I study Your Word, please move that truth from my mind to my heart so I experience life change.⁠
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Help me think properly about my circumstances today. ⁠
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In Jesus's Name,⁠
Amen!⁠
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⁠
Think about how your thought life affects your spiritual battles. Do any thoughts need to come under the authority of Jesus Christ?⁠
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Drop an emoji if you are wearing the Helmet of Salvation today! 🙏🙏🙏⁠
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#DianneThorntonTX #DianneMicroBlog #MiniBibleStudies  #FaithfulFollowers ⁠#HelmetOfSalvation⁠
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#StandingFirmBibleStudy #ArmorOfGod🗡🛡#CharacterOfChrist #PrayerIsAWeapon #WholeArmorOfGod #Ephesians 610 #StandFirmInYourFaith #BeStrongInTheLord #NamesOfGod #ArmorOfGodStudy #standfirminchrist #newbiblestudy #SpiritualBattles #NameOfGod  #standfirminthefaith #fullarmorofgod #Christlikeness #Ephesians6 #VictoryInJesus

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Nov 9

Open
DO YOU CARE FOR LITTLE ONES OR AGED ONES?⁠
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Do you teach students?⁠
Do you move within the corporate world?⁠
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Are you walking through a valley of suffering?⁠
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What task has God given you in your arena of ministry? ⁠
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It doesn’t matter what it is, God wants us to give ourselves *fully* to the work He assigns us. ⁠
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And here’s the “why.”⁠
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“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:58-59 NIV)⁠
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Our labor is in not in vain! Because, as the verses prior to these say, Jesus has conquered the sting of death. Through Him we have victory. ⁠
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Everything we do can point to Jesus so He receives glory in all our tasks. ⁠
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So if you’re feeling discouraged today, take heart. Victory is yours. God will use your efforts for His kingdom.  He loves you so. ⁠
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What work has God given you today? ⁠
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Double tap if you agree!⁠
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#DianneThorntonTX #DianneMicroBlog #MiniBibleStudies  #FaithfulFollowers⁠ #StandFirmInChrist⁠
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#StudyScripture #LampToMyFeet #WordOfGodSpeaks #LovetheBible #LoveGodsWord #StudyGodsWord #BibleCommunity  #JesusIsTruth #BibleBeliever #BibleWisdom #LifeWithJesus #DevotionalTime #BibleVersesDaily #WordOfGodSpeak #GodsWordIsTruth #JesusAndCoffee #BibleStudyMoments  #InTheWord #BibleTruth #SeekHimFirst

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Nov 6

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HOW TO CULTIVATE AN ATTITUDE OF THANKSGIVING ALL YEAR ROUND.⁠
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If you're like me, your mind is spinning with all the craziness of this week. You might even be a bit afraid of what the future holds. I know that I am doing a good amount of "instructing my heart" to trust the Lord. ⁠
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The best cure of worry and fear is a shift in focus -- from our circumstances to the One who controls them. With Thanksgiving approaching, this shift can include listing all the the wonderful ways God has cared for us in the past -- which builds our trust that He will continue to care for us in the coming days. ⁠
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Would you join me in focusing on the wonderful deeds of the Lord as Thanksgiving approaches? ⁠
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This 5-Day Mini Bible Study is a special Thanksgiving treat that will help you cultivate an attitude of thanksgiving (and trust) all year long.⁠ ⁠
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🦃 Get your copy from the Instagram link in my profile. 🦃⁠
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⁠Psalm 77:11-12 “I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will consider all your works and meditate on all your mighty deeds.” 

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#DianneThorntonTX #DianneMicroBlog #MiniBibleStudies  #FaithfulFollowers⁠
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#GiveThanksAlways #GiveThanksEveryDay #GiveThanksToTheLord #GiveThanksDaily #GiveThanks🙏 #GratefulHeart #Psalm136 #Psalm107 #Psalm100 #CountYourManyBlessings #CountYourManyBlessingsNameThemOneByOne #Psalm100 #PsalmOfTheDay #Psalms #Thanksgiving2020 #EnterHisGatesWithThanksgiving #EnterHisCourtsWithPraise⁠
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#LifeWithJesus #DevotionalTime #BibleVersesDaily #WordOfGodSpeak #GodsWordIsTruth #JesusAndCoffee #BibleStudyMoments  #InTheWord #BibleTruth ⁠

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Nov 4

Open
HOLY FATHER, I'M GRATEFUL THAT YOU PROTECT ME WITH THE SHIELD OF YOUR FAITHFULNESS (Psalm 91:4). ⁠
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Where the enemy tries to get me to doubt, remind me of the truth in Your Word that ... ⁠
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... although much in life changes, You remain the same (James 1:17). ⁠
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⁠Thank You for meeting my needs in the past. Because You are our Faithful God, I know You will meet my needs today. ⁠
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I know You can grow my small faith.⁠
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In Jesus's Name,⁠
Amen!⁠
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In your spiritual battles, where are you tempted to doubt God's plan? How has God met your needs in the past? Trust Him meet you now!!⁠
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Drop an emoji if you are using the Shield of Faith today!! 🙏🙏🙏⁠
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#DianneThorntonTX #DianneMicroBlog #MiniBibleStudies  #FaithfulFollowers ⁠#ShieldOfFaith⁠ #GodIsFaithful #James117⁠
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#StandingFirmBibleStudy #ArmorOfGod🗡🛡#CharacterOfChrist #PrayerIsAWeapon #WholeArmorOfGod #Ephesians 610 #StandFirmInYourFaith #BeStrongInTheLord #NamesOfGod #ArmorOfGodStudy #standfirminchrist #newbiblestudy #SpiritualBattles #NameOfGod  #standfirminthefaith #fullarmorofgod #Christlikeness #Ephesians6 #VictoryInJesus

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Nov 2

Open
ISN'T IT JUST LIKE GOD TO USE SMALL THINGS TO ACCOMPLISH BIG THINGS?⁠
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Psalm 8:2 “Through the praise of children and infants you have established a stronghold against your enemies, to silence the foe and the avenger.”⁠
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The NIV Application Commentary says, “The recognition of one’s own weakness is the starting point for recognizing dependence on the strength of God.”⁠
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Do you feel small in your efforts to serve God and others?⁠
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That’s okay!! ⁠
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God takes our meager offering and multiplies it to accomplish His purposes—not only in our lives, but in the world!!⁠
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What are some small efforts that make a big difference?⁠
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#DianneThorntonTX #DianneMicroBlog #MiniBibleStudies  #FaithfulFollowers⁠ #Psalm8 #Psalm82⁠
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#StudyScripture #LampToMyFeet #WordOfGodSpeaks #LovetheBible #LoveGodsWord #StudyGodsWord #BibleCommunity  #JesusIsTruth #BibleBeliever #BibleWisdom #LifeWithJesus #DevotionalTime #BibleVersesDaily #WordOfGodSpeak #GodsWordIsTruth #JesusAndCoffee #BibleStudyMoments  #InTheWord #BibleTruth #SeekHimFirst

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Oct 28

Open
⁠HOLY FATHER, I WANT YOUR PEACE TO RULE MY LIFE.⁠
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First, I confess my sin and thank You for Your forgiveness. ⁠
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Thank You that through Jesus, the Prince of Peace, I can have peace with You.⁠
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Please show me where I need to make amends in my relationships. ⁠
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Help me to humbly approach my friends and family and ask for forgiveness so peace can be restored in our relationships. ⁠
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And in my circumstances, where I am anxious and afraid, I fix my eyes on You and trust You to settle my heart and mind.⁠
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Father, please give me courage to share the Gospel of Peace with those who cross my path today. ⁠
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You've given me the great privilege of partnering with You to spread the gospel. Give me sensitivity to recognize when to speak up so others can hear the good news and know salvation.⁠
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In Jesus's Name,⁠
Amen!⁠
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In your personal spiritual battles, is there anyone with whom you need to reconcile?⁠
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How does Satan disrupt your peace? ⁠
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Drop an emoji if you want to share the gospel of peace today! 🙏🙏🙏 ⁠(kinda scary, huh!)⁠
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#DianneThorntonTX #DianneMicroBlog #MiniBibleStudies  #FaithfulFollowers ⁠#GospelOfPeace #PrinceOfPeace⁠
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#StandingFirmBibleStudy #ArmorOfGod🗡🛡#CharacterOfChrist #PrayerIsAWeapon #WholeArmorOfGod #Ephesians 610 #StandFirmInYourFaith #BeStrongInTheLord #NamesOfGod #ArmorOfGodStudy #standfirminchrist #newbiblestudy #SpiritualBattles #NameOfGod  #standfirminthefaith #fullarmorofgod #Christlikeness #Ephesians6 #VictoryInJesus

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Oct 26

Open
HOW MANY TIMES HAVE YOU READ 1 CORINTHIANS 10:13?⁠
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I've read it many times, but something new popped out to me.⁠
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“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13, NIV)⁠
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It’s that last phrase … SO YOU CAN ENDURE IT.⁠
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Prior to the other day, whenever I thought about this verse, I thought about temptation LEAVING once I ESCAPED, by being obedient to take God’s way out.⁠
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But that’s not what the last phrase indicates. It says that we can ENDURE TEMPTATION. ⁠
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If you're like me, this offers great hope. Sometimes temptation sticks around. It doesn't just go away. That’s why it’s so important to wear the Helmet of Salvation and protect our minds with the Truth from God’s Word. ⁠
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Whatever temptation you are facing, God’s “way out” will help you ENDURE your temptation, especially if it is a lingering one. ⁠
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He is present—you don’t face it alone. He strengthens you each step of the way until you are clear of it.⁠
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Drop an emoji if you agree!⁠
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#DianneThorntonTX #DianneMicroBlog #MiniBibleStudies  #FaithfulFollowers⁠ #HelmetOfSalvation #BeltOfTruth #StandingFirmBibleStudy ⁠
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#StudyScripture #LampToMyFeet #WordOfGodSpeaks #LovetheBible #LoveGodsWord #StudyGodsWord #BibleCommunity  #JesusIsTruth #BibleBeliever #BibleWisdom #LifeWithJesus #DevotionalTime #BibleVersesDaily #WordOfGodSpeak #GodsWordIsTruth #JesusAndCoffee #BibleStudyMoments  #InTheWord #BibleTruth #SeekHimFirst

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Oct 21

Open
⁠HOLY FATHER, THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS⁠ ⁠protects my heart--which is the core of who I am. ⁠
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May the truth of Your Word guard and protect my heart (Proverbs 4:23).⁠
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On my own, it is impossible to live righteously. ⁠
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As I yield my will to the Holy Spirit, however, You give me the power to live in victory. ⁠
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Give me the courage to surrender the areas of my life You put Your finger on.⁠
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May my time in Your Word work change in my heart so I can live the righteous life You desire.⁠
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In Jesus's Name,⁠
Amen!⁠
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In your personal spiritual battle, is there any area of your life where you need to surrender? ⁠
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What do your thoughts, words, and actions reveal about your heart?⁠
⁠
Drop an emoji if you are wearing the Breastplate of Righteousness today! 🙏🙏🙏⁠
⁠
I would consider it a privilege to partner in prayer with you. Feel free to send me a DM!⁠
⁠
#DianneThorntonTX #DianneMicroBlog #MiniBibleStudies  #FaithfulFollowers ⁠#BreastplateOfRighteousness⁠ #Proverbs423 #Ephesians 518⁠
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#StandingFirmBibleStudy #ArmorOfGod🗡🛡#CharacterOfChrist #PrayerIsAWeapon #WholeArmorOfGod #Ephesians 610 #StandFirmInYourFaith #BeStrongInTheLord #NamesOfGod #ArmorOfGodStudy #standfirminchrist #newbiblestudy #SpiritualBattles #NameOfGod  #standfirminthefaith #fullarmorofgod #Christlikeness #Ephesians6 #VictoryInJesus
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