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Dianne Thornton

Dianne Thornton

May 8, 2017 · 14 Comments

Treasure Your Teens by Entering Their World

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The Christian Life

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Does your relationship with your teen look like you hoped it would? Mine doesn't. I'm learning that entering their world opens doors to deeper relationship.

Does your relationship with your teen look like you hoped it would? Mine doesn't. I'm learning that entering their world opens doors to deeper relationship.
When I was a teenager, my mom was my best friend. God blessed me with three Christian girl-friends from church, and we were all very close. They were a year behind me in school and attended the cross-town rival. I loved my high school experience and enjoyed many friendships—but because of my stand for Christ, I was often alone.

So my sweet mom was my go-to source for comfort. She knew about every crush, every disappointment. On days that were especially difficult, I would crawl onto her bed and visit with her. If it was the afternoon and she was planning a retreat, I enjoyed eavesdropping on all the details. If it was nighttime, we’d talk forever—my sweet daddy patiently waiting for us to finish so he could go to sleep!

Fast forward several decades and I have teenage daughters of my own. Our relationships don’t look anything like that! In fact—you’d think they don’t need me at all! As my daughters made the transition from girls to tweens, and began their passage into young womanhood, I looked forward to the same tender moments with them that I’d shared with my mom.

Except it didn’t happen.

I read stories on Facebook of other moms who were sharing these treasured times with their girls. One of my friends, who has a slew of boys, was getting to experience this with them! And they are big, tough guys. Why not me?

When I realized that I was not going to have a similar type of relationship with my own daughters, I was heartbroken. Please don’t misunderstand. I do have treasured moments with my daughters. Many of them are made of everyday stuff. Others, however, don’t look anything like I expected them to look.

Entering Their World

Entering their worldAlthough I am not the one my girls run to when they have a bad day, I have discovered other ways to treasure and enjoy time with them–by entering their world. One way is through Social Media. After all, this is where they live. Sometimes that means learning a new app. It started with Instagram. I “grew up” on Facebook, so adding Insta was a change. Everything starts with a picture and a hashtag. I kept calling it a “pound sign”–which caused no end of rolling eyes. 🙄 Finally I made the adjustment.

But now, the place they hang out is SnapChat. It took me a long time to get used to it. It doesn’t seem natural to look at yourself while you make crazy faces with all those lenses. But I did it! It has become the primary way I text one of my daughters. We have a Snap streak of over 100 days!

Late night chats look different, too. First of all, they aren’t late. My girls aren’t night owls. (What a blessing!) Usually we are curled up in the living room. Sometimes each of us playing a game on our own device, discussing what’s working and what’s not. Often trading devices so one of us can help the other. Other times we’re up watching “The Voice,” talking about which vocalist we like and why. Trying to figure out the voting app so our favorite can make it to the next round.

In many ways it’s easier for me to enter my daughters’ world than it is for me to enter my son’s. But it is just as important for me to connect with him. In the process of writing this, God put His finger on an area that I have been resistant to enter. He made it clear I was to “go there.” So I did.

I’m learning to enjoy the things they enjoy (including their music!). You know what else? I like my teenagers! I genuinely like them! They are so much fun and have the most sensitive, tender hearts. I’ve discovered that taking advantage of opportunities (whatever they may be, whenever they may be) to spend time with my older teenagers, opens the door to more intimate moments later on.

Spending time with your teenagers in their activities, opens doors to more intimate moments later on. Click to Tweet

God Entered Our World

God designed us (Psalm 139:13-16). Each of us is a masterpiece creation (Ephesians 2:10).

He loves us and wants to have a relationship with us. But we were far from Him–off doing our own thing. He didn’t even have our attention. So He entered our world, took on flesh, and lived among us in the Person of Jesus Christ. When we finally respond to His invitation the relationship begins. (If you would like to know more about beginning a relationship with Jesus, please click here!)

So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son. (John 1:14)

All relationships take two people who are willing to give their time to one another. God wants us to spend time with Him every day. He wants to greet us in the morning. He wants to hear about everything that happened during the day, and He wants to say goodnight. Even more, He wants us to run to Him when life falls apart.

I know the heart-sting that comes when one of my daughters is going through something difficult, and I’m the last one she want to talk to about it. I’ve been asking myself, does God feel the same heart-sting when I choose a lesser source of comfort?

Indeed, He does. And He can comfort me during these times like no other.

Does God feel a heart-sting when I choose a lesser source of comfort? Click to Tweet

Each Relationship Is Unique

For me, treasured time with God takes many shapes. My go-to spot for mornings is a recliner in my living room. But it’s also been the elliptical at the gym with worship music blaring through my earbuds. Sometimes it’s with my head buried in a pillow. When I need serious one-on-one time with God, I like to get away to a quiet, pretty, alone place where there are few distractions. (In fact, I think I’m due for some time like that about now.)

For moms with young children, your treasured time may be when your kiddos are napping, or maybe when they are at school.

Whatever works for you, pursue it! Take advantage of every opportunity to build and deepen your relationship with God–in the simple mundane, the chaos of work or raising children, times of joyful celebration, and periods of deep grief. During times of intense emotion or hectic schedules, it is easy to put this on the back burner. We cannot do that! (I’m preaching to the choir!) I know for myself, when I let my relationship with God take a backseat, when chaos hits, I am ill-equipped to handle it well.

Respecting Their Space

This is an incredibly busy time in our home. Two kids graduating in a few, short weeks. End of year banquets, prom, announcements, Graduation, parties. And all the preparation that goes into each one. When one of my kids has a personal crisis in the middle of all this, my heart wants to hug them, and squeeze them, and call them George! (You may need to watch some old Looney Tunes to understand that! It is a beloved phrase in our home.)

But their press for independence and unique personalities don’t always lend themselves to that.

So I step aside and pray–taking advantage of the opportunity to deepen my relationship with God, and giving my teens the space they need. Later, entering their world in a way that is meaningful to them. Eventually, they open up and share.

Happy Mother’s Day!

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Tammy McDonald says

    May 8, 2017 at 10:58 am

    Oh Dianne! This is so beautiful and spot on… I never thought of the fact that Jesus entered our world to connect with us. Keep up the good work, and I pray God opens the door for some good cuddles with you and your children!

  2. Curtina Bradshaw says

    May 8, 2017 at 6:03 pm

    Oh Mercy Friend! Words from the Lord…sent straight to me…via your message today. Thank you so much!

  3. Dianne Thornton says

    May 8, 2017 at 9:42 pm

    Thanks, Tammy. It’s a challenge, for sure. But I’m thankful for the growing relationship I do have with my kiddos. And doubly thankful for the tender moments when they come.

  4. Dianne Thornton says

    May 8, 2017 at 9:43 pm

    So glad God used this to strengthen your heart today, Curtina! Love you to pieces!!

  5. Lisa notes says

    May 9, 2017 at 11:27 am

    I hear you, Dianne. I am only on snapchat because of my daughters. 🙂 It’s the easiest place to get a response from them. I’m grateful that the older they get, the deeper our friendship goes. Blessings on you and your daughters too!

  6. Angela Howard says

    May 9, 2017 at 5:14 pm

    I agree with you Dianne! We are the ones who are responsible for finding a way to connect. I love that you took ownership of the relationship and looked for ways to bond that were unique and individual to your girls. Inspirational. I too have a teen daughter and have found that when the focus is on connecting with her and being a good listener our relationship is much deeper and I have the opportunity to speak into her life in a significant way. Visiting from #RaRaLinkup 🙂

  7. Dianne Thornton says

    May 12, 2017 at 8:12 am

    We do what it takes; don’t we, Lisa! I’m beginning to see glimpses of what a deeper relationship will be like with my girls. They are amazing! Enjoy your Mother’s Day weekend!

  8. Dianne Thornton says

    May 12, 2017 at 8:14 am

    So true, Angela. And when we’ve done the ground work and can speak that truth, they have a heart to listen. Thanks so much for taking time to read and comment!!

  9. Carlie says

    May 15, 2017 at 10:55 am

    Oh, Dianne, I love this! I always find such sweet encouragement for the ‘parenting teens journey’ here. Thank you so much for the smiles, and the wisdom. I felt like I just sat down with coffee with a mom who understands just where I’m at. Blessings to you, my friend!

  10. Ruth @ plantedbylivingwater says

    May 17, 2017 at 3:15 pm

    This is a great post! Shared so I can find it and read it again. Thanks! 🙂

  11. dawn says

    May 17, 2017 at 7:33 pm

    Diane, you are spot on. I hadn’t connected those two thoughts together before, about entering the world of our teens, and how God entered our world, in order to connect with us. This is great advice. Whatever works is my motto, too. I connected with my daughter through volunteering with her dance team throughout high school.
    Thank you for linking with Grace and Truth last week. I would love to feature this post on Friday.

  12. Dianne Thornton says

    May 18, 2017 at 9:45 am

    Glad it spoke to you, Ruth! Thanks for coming by!!

  13. Dianne Thornton says

    May 18, 2017 at 9:47 am

    I, too, connect with my girls in their Guard activities. Such a joy to see them perform! I’m honored you want to feature my post! Thank you, Dawn!

  14. Dianne Thornton says

    May 24, 2017 at 9:51 am

    Ahhh, Carlie … so glad you are moved by my posts. One is brewing even today … Hopefully it will be ready for Friday. Blessings to you as we rear and launch our kids!

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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. 

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✨ 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. 

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✨ 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.” 

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➡️ But we must seek it. 

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❓Won’t you join me in reading a Proverb a day and gaining biblical wisdom? 🙋‍♀️

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I will keep y’all posted as things move along!!! ⁠
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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. 

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

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

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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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✨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. ⁠
⁠
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?⁠
⁠
Drop an emoji if you are wearing the Helmet of Salvation today! 🙏🙏🙏⁠
⁠
#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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