Tag: Learn the Bible

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Faithful in small things

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

It’s amazing what God can do for a troubled heart when we learn to truly meditate on Him. Charles F. Stanley often spoke about this, and I’ve always appreciated his wisdom. As the founder of In Touch Ministries, he exemplified what a minister should be. Though he is now with the Lord, his teachings continue to bless so many, including me.

When motivation feels low, remember—motivation isn’t constant. It rises and falls, and that’s okay. Sometimes your soul is simply asking for rest, or the Holy Spirit is inviting you to slow down and be present instead of pushing yourself to produce. Yet there is also faithfulness in the small steps we take, even when we don’t feel like taking them.

So pause.

Feet on the floor.

Hands relaxed.

Take a deep breath and look around at where you are right now.

Ask yourself: What is the very next small task in front of me?

Not the whole list—just the next step.

You don’t need enthusiasm or guaranteed results. All God asks is that you show up in this moment with whatever strength you have.

Philippians 2:13 (NASB) reminds us, “For it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.”

So when you go to work, try shifting your perspective from “I have to go” to “I get to work for the Lord today.”

Our thoughts shape our attitude, and small acts done for Him matter more than grand gestures.

Jesus tells us in Matthew 6:34, “Do not worry about tomorrow… Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

Today is what God has placed in your hands. He’s not asking you to move mountains—just to be faithful where you stand. The outcome is His. Showing up is yours.

Rest isn’t about having everything figured out. It’s about trusting a Father who sees, knows, and loves us completely.

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for Your steady love. Help me to show up for the task or person in front of me today and to trust You with the rest. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Go gently into your next task, knowing God sees your willingness and honors your faithfulness.

Have a blessed day.

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Women of Scripture: Mary, the Mother of Jesus

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Women of Scripture: Mary, the Mother of Jesus — Courage, Humility, and Obedient Faith

Mary, the mother of Our Lord Jesus stands as one of the most profound examples of faithful obedience in all of Scripture. Her story is not just a Christmas narrative—it is a daily invitation for how we, too, can live with courage, humility, and trust in God.

Mary was young, ordinary, and living a quiet life when God chose her for an extraordinary purpose. When the angel Gabriel appeared and told her she would conceive by the Holy Spirit, Mary faced a moment that could have been filled with fear, confusion, or refusal. Instead, she responded with words that still echo through generations:

“I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled.”

Those words reveal the heart of Mary. She didn’t ask for guarantees. She didn’t demand explanations. She didn’t negotiate the cost. She trusted God completely—even knowing the personal risk, social judgment, and uncertainty that awaited her.

Mary’s Strength Was Quiet—but Unshakable

Mary’s faith was not loud or attention-seeking. It was steady, reflective, and deeply rooted in trust. Scripture often tells us that Mary “pondered these things in her heart.” She listened more than she spoke. She reflected before reacting. She trusted God’s promises even when she didn’t yet understand them.

From the manger to the cross, Mary remained faithful. She carried Jesus in her womb, raised Him with love, and later stood at the foot of the cross, witnessing unimaginable sorrow—yet still believing God’s plan was at work.

What We Can Learn from Mary Today

1. Say yes to God, even when it’s uncomfortable.

Mary teaches us that obedience doesn’t require full understanding—only trust. God often calls us into things that stretch us beyond our comfort.

2. Humility invites God’s power.

Mary didn’t see herself as important or worthy; she saw herself as available. God works mightily through humble hearts.

3. Faith means trusting God with your reputation.

Mary risked misunderstanding and judgment, choosing obedience over approval. Today, we are reminded to seek God’s will—not public opinion.

4. Strength doesn’t always look loud.

Mary’s strength was found in perseverance, reflection, and quiet endurance. In a noisy world, her example calls us back to stillness and trust.

5. Treasure God’s work in your heart.

Mary teaches us to slow down, reflect, and hold God’s promises close—especially in seasons of uncertainty.

Becoming More Like Mary

To be more like Mary today means living with surrendered faith. It means trusting God when the path is unclear, choosing obedience when it’s costly, and believing that God can work through our ordinary lives in extraordinary ways.

Mary reminds us that God doesn’t look for perfection—He looks for willingness.

May we, like Mary, respond to God with open hearts and willing spirits, saying each day:

“Lord, let it be done according to Your word.”

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Women of Scripture: Elizabeth — Faithful Waiting, Quiet Strength

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist, is one of the most beautiful examples in Scripture of faithful waiting, humble obedience, and unwavering trust in God.

For many years, Elizabeth lived with deep disappointment. She and her husband, Zechariah, longed for a child, yet none came. In biblical times, barrenness carried not only sorrow but social shame. Still, Scripture tells us Elizabeth was righteous before God, living faithfully even when her prayers seemed unanswered. Her life reminds us that faith is not proven by blessings—but by perseverance.

Then, when Elizabeth was well beyond childbearing years, God did the impossible. Through His grace, she conceived a son. That child became John the Baptist, the prophet chosen to prepare the way for Jesus Christ. What felt like a lifetime of silence was suddenly transformed into a miracle with eternal purpose.

Elizabeth’s story teaches us something powerful: God’s timing is not late. What He promises, He fulfills—often in ways that exceed anything we imagined.

But Elizabeth’s faith didn’t stop with her miracle. When Mary came to visit her, newly pregnant with Jesus, Elizabeth responded not with jealousy or comparison, but with joy, humility, and spiritual insight. She recognized God’s work in Mary immediately and spoke blessing instead of doubt. Her words lifted another woman up instead of centering herself.

What We Can Learn from Elizabeth Today

1. Faithful waiting matters.

Elizabeth trusted God even when years passed without answers. Waiting does not mean God has forgotten—it often means He is preparing something greater.

2. Obedience doesn’t require understanding.

She lived righteously without knowing how her story would end. Faith is walking forward without the full picture.

3. Celebrate others, even in your own season.

Elizabeth rejoiced in Mary’s calling while still carrying her own miracle. She shows us how to encourage, not compete.

4. God uses ordinary lives for extraordinary purposes.

Elizabeth wasn’t famous or powerful, yet her obedience placed her in God’s redemptive plan for the world.

Elizabeth’s life reminds us that no season is wasted, no prayer is unheard, and no woman is overlooked by God. When we remain faithful—especially in the waiting—we open ourselves to blessings far greater than we could imagine.

May we learn to wait like Elizabeth: with patience, trust, humility, and hope—believing that God is still working, even when we cannot yet see it

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Women of Scripture: Deborah – Strength, Courage, and God-Given Authority

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Deborah’s story, found in Judges chapters 4–5, stands as one of the most powerful examples of spiritual strength and leadership in Scripture. At a time when Israel was oppressed and fearful, Deborah rose—not by force or ambition—but by obedience, wisdom, and trust in God.

Deborah’s Story

Deborah was both a prophetess and a judge of Israel, the only woman to hold this role. She sat beneath the Palm of Deborah, where people came to her for counsel and justice. When God revealed that Israel would be delivered from oppression, He spoke through Deborah and instructed her to summon Barak to lead the army.

Barak hesitated. He would only go if Deborah went with him. Deborah agreed but she made it clear that the victory would ultimately highlight God’s power, not human pride. As foretold, the enemy commander Sisera was defeated, and the final blow came through another woman, Jael, reinforcing the truth that God often works through those the world underestimates.

Deborah’s leadership was not loud or domineering. It was anchored in faith, discernment, and courage. She trusted God’s word fully and acted decisively when the moment required it.

Deborah’s Strength

Deborah’s strength came from:

Listening to God before acting Speaking truth boldly, even when others were afraid Stepping forward when leadership was needed, not waiting to be asked Trusting God’s power over her own limitations

She did not doubt that God would show up—she moved because she knew He already had.

Drawing Strength as Deborah Did

Like Deborah, we are often called to step into moments that feel overwhelming—family challenges, leadership roles, advocacy, or simply standing firm when it would be easier to stay silent. Deborah reminds us that strength is not about physical power or position. It is about obedience, faith, and courage rooted in God.

When we pause to listen, trust what God places on our hearts, and move forward despite fear, we access the same strength Deborah did. God does not call the equipped—He equips the called.

Scripture for Strength

Judges 4:14 (NIV)

“Then Deborah said to Barak, ‘Go! This is the day the Lord has given Sisera into your hands. Has not the Lord gone ahead of you?’”

Judges 5:7 (NIV)

“Village life in Israel ceased, ceased until I, Deborah, arose, arose a mother in Israel.”

A Prayer for Strength When We Must Rise

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the example of Deborah—her faith, her courage, and her obedience to You. When fear tries to silence us or doubt clouds our path, remind us that You go before us. Help us listen for Your voice and trust the strength You place within us. Give us wisdom to speak truth, courage to act when called, and peace knowing that victory belongs to You. When we must rise, let us rise in faith, just as Deborah did. Amen.

Posted in The Women of Scripture, Women of the Bible

Women’s of Scripture Priscilla — A Model of Strength, Wisdom, and Partnership

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Women’s Scripture Spotlight: Priscilla — A Model of Strength, Wisdom, and Partnership

When we study the women of Scripture, we find stories of courage, devotion, and God-given purpose woven through every page. Today, we turn our hearts toward Priscilla, a remarkable woman whose life is a testimony to faithfulness, leadership, and Spirit-empowered ministry.

Who Was Priscilla?

Priscilla appears in the New Testament alongside her husband, Aquila, as partners in ministry and in life. They were tentmakers by trade, missionary servants by calling, and devoted teachers of the gospel. Priscilla is mentioned before Aquila multiple times in the New Testament—a sign of her respected leadership, wisdom, and influence in the early church (Acts 18:18, Romans 16:3).

Scripture paints her as:

A teacher of truth A defender of sound doctrine A brave woman of hospitality A steadfast servant of Christ A partner in ministry who strengthened others

Her story silently but powerfully proclaims that God calls, equips, and uses women in powerful ways for His kingdom.

Priscilla’s Strengths — and What We Can Learn From Her

1. She Was Strong in the Word

When Apollos—a brilliant and passionate preacher—was teaching inaccurately, Priscilla and Aquila gently corrected him, guiding him toward deeper understanding (Acts 18:26).

She knew Scripture. She valued truth. She spoke with wisdom, not ego.

How we can be more like her:

Be women who study Scripture deeply. Speak truth with grace, not judgment. Grow in biblical understanding so we can encourage others.

2. She Practiced Ministry as Partnership, Not Competition

Priscilla worked with her husband, not behind him and not in rivalry. Their ministry flowed from unity, mutual respect, and shared passion for the gospel.

How we can be more like her:

See ministry as a team effort within our homes, churches, and friendships. Support the gifts God has placed in others. Avoid comparison—embrace collaboration.

3. She Used Her Home for God’s Kingdom

Priscilla and Aquila opened their home for teaching, fellowship, and worship (Romans 16:5). Hospitality was their ministry, and their living space became a place of spiritual transformation.

How we can be more like her:

Welcome others with warmth, whether into our homes or into our conversations. Create spaces where people feel seen, valued, and strengthened. Let everyday life become a place where God can move.

4. She Was Courageous and Steadfast

Paul said that Priscilla and Aquila risked their lives for him (Romans 16:3–4). Faith wasn’t a hobby—it was a calling that demanded courage.

How we can be more like her:

Stand firm in faith even when it’s uncomfortable. Live boldly for Christ, trusting His protection and guidance. Remember that obedience is an act of bravery.

Two Bible Verses to Reflect On

Acts 18:26 (NIV)

“He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately.”

Romans 16:3–4 (NIV)

“Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my co-workers in Christ Jesus. They risked their lives for me. Not only I but all the churches of the Gentiles are grateful to them.”

Final Encouragement

Priscilla’s life teaches us that God honors faithfulness over fame, obedience over position, and partnership over pride.

She reminds women everywhere:

You are called. You are gifted. You are needed in God’s kingdom.

May we walk with the same wisdom, strength, and courage she displayed—knowing that God delights in using our lives, our gifts, and our stories to advance His mission.

Posted in The Women of Scripture, Trusting God in All Situations, Women of the Bible

Women in Scripture- Mary Magdalene: Witness to the Resurrection — A Model of Devotion and Joy

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Mary Magdalene’s story is one of unwavering devotion, joy, and boldness. She is a true testament to the power of deep personal faith and the transformative presence of Jesus in our lives. As a faithful follower, Mary was among the first to witness the empty tomb and to share the incredible news—she was the first to see Jesus risen.

Her story reminds us of the importance of a heartfelt, personal relationship with Jesus. Despite her past, her dedication shines through. Her unwavering loyalty and courage demonstrate how genuine faith can change lives and influence others profoundly. Mary’s witness *signifies her vital role in the early church* and exemplifies what it means to be faithful and bold in our walk with Christ.

Her life encourages us to cultivate a deep devotion to Jesus, to find joy in His resurrection, and to recognize that sharing our testimony can inspire others. Mary Magdalene’s story teaches us that true dedication, no matter how bold, comes from a loving heart committed to the Lord’s mission.

Bible Quote:

Go and tell my brothers and sisters, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.— John 20:17

This verse highlights her significant role in sharing Jesus’ message and her faithfulness in spreading the good news.

Heavenly Father,  

Help us to be more like Mary Magdalene faithful, bold, and devoted to You.  

May we witness Your love with joy and share Your good news without fear.  

Fill our hearts with her unwavering faith and teach us to recognize Your presence in every moment.  

Guide us to be witnesses of Your resurrection and lights to others.  

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Mary Magdalene’s story invites us to deepen our relationship with Jesus, to be courageous in our faith, and to share His love joyfully. Like her, let us be bold witnesses, rooted in devotion and driven by the transformative power of Christ.

References

Luke 8:2-3— Highlights her background as a follower who was delivered from evil spirits, emphasizing her transformation and deep devotion to Jesus.  

John 20:11-18— The account of Mary Magdalene at the empty tomb and her encounter with the risen Jesus, showcasing her faith and joy. Mary Magdalene stood outside the tomb crying… Jesus said to her, ‘Mary.’ She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, ‘Rabbi!

Matthew 28:1-10— The scene of Mary Magdalene and the other women discovering the empty tomb and witnessing the resurrection.  The women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples.

Mark 16:9-11 – Jesus appears to Mary Magdalene after His resurrection, affirming her importance as a witness.  Jesus appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had driven seven demons.

Acts 1:14 — Shows Mary Magdalene among the early followers, united in prayer after Jesus’ ascension, demonstrating her continued faithfulness.  They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers

Posted in Bible, The Women of Scripture

Women in Scripture Hagar: The God Who Sees Me

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Hagar’s story, found in Genesis 16 and Genesis 21, is one of deep suffering, unexpected divine encounter, and hope. As a servant and mother, Hagar faced rejection, hardship, and displacement. Despite her struggles, she is met by God in the wilderness—a powerful reminder of His omnipresence and care.

In Genesis 16, Hagar flees from Sarah’s mistreatment and finds herself in a desolate place. There, the Angel of the Lord appears to her, asking, “Hagar, servant of Sarah, where have you come from, and where are you going?” (Genesis 16:8). Hagar responds with honesty, and God speaks to her, assuring her of His presence and promising blessing. She is given the name “God Who Sees Me,” because she recognizes that God has seen her in her distress, providing comfort and reassurance.

Later, in Genesis 21, Hagar and her son Ishmael face hardship again due to Sarah’s actions. Despite these difficulties, God hears their cries and provides for them—shepherding them in the wilderness and making a great nation from Ishmael.

Hagar’s narrative teaches us that no one is unseen or forgotten by God. He is ever-present and actively involved in our journeys, especially in our times of pain. Her story reminds us that God sees us—our struggles, our hopes, and our needs—and that His care is unending.

Regarding Genesis 21 and Isaac:

In Genesis 21, the birth of Isaac marks the fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham and Sarah that they would have a son in their old age. Sarah, who was previously considered too old to bear children, miraculously gives birth to Isaac, meaning “laughter.” Isaac is born as the child of promise, a testament to God’s faithfulness.

Heavenly Father, thank You for seeing us in our times of need and hardship. Like Hagar, we are grateful that You are always present, hearing our cries and offering comfort.
Help us to trust in Your care, knowing that no one is unseen or forgotten by You.
Grant us strength and hope as we face our struggles, and remind us that Your love and faithfulness never fail.
May we always remember that You see us, and Your presence sustains us. Amen.

Posted in Women of the Bible

Women in Scripture Lessons from Miriam

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Leading with Boldness and Grace — Lessons from Miriam

Miriam, the elder sister of Moses, stands as a shining symbol of courageous leadership, unwavering devotion, and humility in the biblical narrative. Her story, particularly in the Book of Exodus, weaves a powerful tapestry of faith, wisdom, and daring guidance that continues to inspire us today.

But Miriam’s leadership wasn’t just about singing and encouragement; it was about stepping into action with boldness, even in the face of uncertainties. As an elder sister and a prophetess, she guided the people, offered counsel, and demonstrated the importance of trusting God while exercising her God-ordained authority.

After the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea, Miriam led the women of Israel in a triumphant song, celebrating God’s mighty deliverance (“Sing to the Lord, for he is highly exalted”). Miriam’s song of victory, recorded in Exodus 15:20-21, echoes through generations, reminding believers of God’s power and faithfulness.

Her story also emphasizes humility. Despite her significant role, Miriam remained submissive to God’s overarching plan and authority. Her life teaches us that true leadership involves balancing confidence with humility and vulnerability before God.

Miriam’s journey rebukes us to lead with grace—not from a place of arrogance but with a heart aligned with God’s purpose. Her example encourages us to serve others boldly, proclaim God’s truths courageously, and walk humbly in our walk with Him.

In modern life, whether in church, community, or workplace, Miriam’s story reminds us that boldness rooted in humility and devotion can have a lasting impact, inspiring others and advancing God’s kingdom.

Reflect: Are we leading with confidence and grace today? Are we willing to sing our own songs of victory and encouragement, trusting in God’s power to guide us and those we serve?

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the inspiring example of Miriam, a woman of courage, wisdom, and unwavering faith. Lord, grant us the strength and boldness to lead where You have placed us, to serve with grace, and to speak truth with authority rooted in Your love.

Help us to balance confidence with humility, recognizing that true leadership is submitted to Your will. May we be guided by Your Spirit to encourage others, uplift the weak, and remain faithful in all circumstances.

Lord, teach us to lead with a heart that seeks Your purpose above all, to sing songs of praise and victory that glorify Your name. Let our lives reflect Miriam’s devotion, inspiring generations to come.

Empower us to serve boldly and humbly, trusting in Your sovereignty. May our voices resonate with Your truth, and our actions mirror Your love.

In Jesus’ name, we pray,

Amen.

Posted in Bible

Woman in Scripture -Eve The Mother of Humanity

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Eve: The Mother of All Humanity – Her Life, Lessons, and Legacy

Eve holds a unique place in biblical history as the first woman and the mother of all humankind. Created by God from Adam’s rib, she was designed to be a companion and helper—reflecting God’s love and creativity. Her life begins in perfect harmony within the Garden of Eden, where she walks with God and enjoys a life of abundance.

However, even in paradise, Eve faced a crucial test of responsibility and trust. When the serpent tempted her to doubt God’s command not to eat from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil, she made a choice that would change everything. She succumbed to temptation, ate the forbidden fruit, and shared it with Adam. Her decision introduced sin into the world, resulting in pain, toil, and separation from God’s perfect presence.

Attributes and Lessons from Eve

Eve’s story reveals both her strengths and her weaknesses. She was created with intelligence, curiosity, and the ability to make choices. Her willingness to listen and respond—though misguided—shows her capacity to learn and grow. Even after her mistake, she faced the consequences with humility, and her life became a testimony of human fallibility and God’s mercy.

From her life, we learn that responsibility lies with us when making decisions. Eve’s choices remind us to trust in God’s Word and rely on His guidance rather than our own understanding. Although she failed to listen to God and was persuaded and tricked by Satan, she also displayed an important attribute: the ability to accept accountability and seek redemption.

Her Legacy and Her Children

Eve’s life continued after her fall, and she became the mother of many children. Some of her most notable offspring include:

  • Cain: The firstborn, a farmer who later murdered his brother Abel.
  • Abel: The shepherd who offered a faithful sacrifice to God and was tragically killed by Cain.
  • Seth: Born after Abel’s death, seen as a continuation of God’s righteous line.
  • Other children: Genesis 4 and 5 mention that Eve had many sons and daughters, making her the ancestor of all humanity.

Eve’s legacy as the “mother of all living” (Genesis 3:20) underscores that, despite her mistakes, she was chosen by God to be the beginning of the human family. Her life reflects both human frailty and God’s unending grace.

What We Can Learn from Eve Today

Eve’s story encourages us to accept responsibility for our decisions and to trust God fully. When faced with temptation, we should choose obedience, remembering that God’s guidance leads to life and peace. Her life reminds us that failure is not final; God’s mercy is greater than our mistakes. With humility and faith, we can rise again, learn, and grow closer to God each day.

A Short Prayer for Obedience

Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of Eve—her life, her mistakes, and her lessons. Help us to trust and obey You in all we do. Strengthen us when we face temptation, and give us the humility to turn back to You when we falter. Guide us to walk faithfully and live in obedience to Your Word. May we always seek to honor You with our choices. In Jesus’ name, we pray.

Amen.

Next we will discuss Sarah

Wishing you all a blessed day

Deb

Posted in The Women of Scripture

Starting November 04, 2025 Women in Scripture

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Hello, fellow believers, and welcome to our Bible study series focused on some of the incredible women of Scripture.

Throughout this journey, we will explore their stories, which beautifully illustrate timeless truths and profound life principles. Starting November 2, 2025, our first focus will be on Eve—her life, her challenges, and her divine calling as the mother of all humanity. From Eve’s experiences, we’ll learn valuable lessons about faith, obedience, and God’s grace.

As we continue, we’ll meet women like Sarah, whose unwavering faith; Ruth, with her loyal heart; Esther, known for her courage; and many others who exemplify collaboration, service, and divine strength. Each woman’s story offers unique insights and spiritual growth opportunities.

I invite you to join us on this journey of discovery. Bring your Bible and an open heart as we uncover the divine truths woven into their lives. Let’s grow closer to God together and deepen our understanding of His purpose for us all.

Have a blessed day