By Major Gaylene Yardley Divisional Women’s Ministries Secretary – Southwest Division
Begin by singing or listening to the song “He Knows My Name” by Paul Baloche
Scripture Passage: Psalm 139:13-14
This portion of scripture is a favorite of mine. It came into my life at a very important time as a corps officer in a very challenging corps. I often felt like I didn’t fit into this place or the appointment. I asked God what He was doing and why He put me in a place where I was the odd one out. Many things happened in this corps that I could write a book about. It was a place that I learned the power of God and His will for my life. It didn’t happen overnight. It took quite some time, but God is faithful, even when I am not.
Psalm 139 is so important as it tells us how important we are to God. He is our creator and the one who knows us best. We are fully known because of His love in creation. Genesis 1:27 tells us that “God created us in His image Male and female ~ He created us.” Because of this we can know that we are fully known.
Have you ever created something with your hands? If you are like me, it never seems to come out as I saw it in my mind’s eye, but it still is a creation that I made and therefore it is important to me as the creator of it. Creating something from nothing gives us a feeling of accomplishment and achievement. We did that and it may not look like we thought it would, but it is our creation.
Psalm 139:13-14 reads; “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mothers womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
Look at all the ladies sitting around you today and the difference there is in each one of us, but even in those differences, we are created in His image. He knows us fully as He is the one who created us. Psalm 139 tells us so many wonderful things that God knows about us.
He knows when I sit and when I stand.
He knows my thoughts.
He knows when I go out and when I lay down.
He is familiar with all my ways.
He knows what we are going to say before we say it.
He knows where I try to hide.
He knows I cannot hide from Him.
He knows my frame or body because He was there when I was created.
His eyes saw my unformed body.
What a wonderful list this is and how almost unbelievable it is that He could love me so much that I was made by His own hands. I am fully known! Known, because He is the maker, creator of who I am.
I began by telling you that this chapter came to me during a very challenging time in my life as a mother, pastor, officer, daughter, granddaughter, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend. It was a time that a young woman of my corps became pregnant and told me first. Her mother didn’t speak English and she wanted me to talk to her mother and let her know that she was pregnant at the age of 14. I was so sad for her, and I was so nervous to try to talk to her mother as we had no common ground, no common language. I went into my office and asked God to help me be a messenger of truth and peace in this situation.
I went to see her mother and to talk to her about the uncomfortable situation. The mother was understandably upset. She yelled, she cried, she became angry, she had all the emotions a mother would have in this situation. She immediately told the young girl that she should go and have an abortion. I only know that because the young girl was translating for her mother and for me. The young woman cried and ran off. What was I to do? Lord, help me with this. I need you now.
I opened my bible to Psalm 139 and read it, in English, and asked God to speak to this mother as I read the words that said, “You knit me together in my mother’s womb, I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” After I finished reading the chapter, I excused myself and left the house. The next day the young lady came into my office and told me that her mother had changed her mind and that she could have the child and give it up for adoption. I told her that I would help her anyway I could. After going home that night I told my husband and we agreed that we would take the baby and offer to adopt it.
The young lady gave birth to a beautiful little girl and decided to keep her. For the first two years of her life, my husband and I were able to help her and to see tis little one grow and to be nurtured. She was at the corps every program that she could be, and we were able to speak truth and Jesus into her life as well as her mother.
This scripture is so important for each of us as God has a plan for us. Something that He has ordained for us to do and to be. He is our creator and because of that, we are fully known!
Prayer: Father, we thank you for knowing us because you created us for your pleasure. We thank you for the differences we all have and for the things we share that are alike. We love you for your great love for us. Your sacrifice of Jesus shows us your perfect love. We thank you that we are fully known because your word tells us so. Thank you for all you are to each of us! Amen.
Download the printable version of this month’s Devotional, Craft & Bible Study:
Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham, World President of Women’s Ministries shares this letter:
As followers of Jesus, we are called to be salt and light in our communities, bringing hope, healing and transformation wherever we go. Battle Cry is a movement that seeks to empower and mobilize women to engage in local acts of social justice; it is our response to the call of Isaiah 1:17: ‘Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed.’
The Salvation Army has always been home to women involved in social justice and action that positively impacts the world. I think of my friend in New Zealand who, having recently retired from a long nursing career, is seeking a space to continue her ministry of care among those in need of judgement-free guidance and medical attention. I consider the 19-year-old who combats period poverty among peers through fundraising events that partner local stores with community centers. Her thoughtful intervention has helped many female students.
These examples remind us what is possible when women use their gifts and skills for the greater good. This is nothing new for Salvation Army women, but we have a responsibility to intentionally nurture, tend and guide this organic, missional work for all generations. This is where Battle Cry comes in!
To engage in Battle Cry is to identify a social need – no matter how big or small – and to feel released to respond to it. It is an invitation to rally your team of friends, colleagues, mums, daughters and granddaughters together, and consider how to serve as a uniquely placed and gifted group of women. Work to your strengths – if you can sew, then sew; if you can teach, then teach; if you can cook, then cook; if you can network, then network. Use your skills to connect with people beyond your usual corners. Step outside your church building and do something beautiful for others, in the name of Jesus!
Globally, The Salvation Army recognizes the role of women in addressing social justice issues. Our desire is that, through these first Battle Cry resources, we will see more women stepping confidently into their calling as agents of social justice. A devotional plan will be released over the coming months and, later in 2025, online courses will educate and equip those who are interested in exploring informed justice response.
Though we may doubt that our offering will make much difference and it might seem easier to leave things to the professionals, we must remember that, as is the way of the Kingdom, we each have a part to play. Start simple. Start small. Start with what you know. There will always be a place for high-level, trained and coordinated responses, but your contribution to creating a better world is also needed. We are stronger together.
My prayer for you is this: ‘May God bless you with discontent with easy answers, half-truths, superficial relationships so that you will live from deep within your heart. May God bless you with anger at injustice, oppression, abuse, and exploitation of people, so that you may work for justice, equality, and peace … May God bless you with the foolishness to think you can make a difference in the world, so that you will do the things which others tell you cannot be done’ (Sister Ruth Fox, 1985).
I invite you to join us in this important work. Together, may we be bold in speaking out with wisdom and grace, and may we be courageous in our pursuit of justice.
Grace and peace to you,
Bronwyn Buckingham
Commissioner World President of Women’s Ministries
International Headquarters has re-launched the Battle Cry resources from the International Women’s Ministries Department.
On their website – https://salvationarmy.org/ihq/battlecry-resources – you will find resources such as a variety of Battle Cry posters and an information brochure that can be downloaded and used at all levels of our global movement. This site will be continually refreshed with resources, stories, and translated materials.
International Headquarters hopes that this information will be used to stir the hearts of our women and girls to step out and engage with our communities to positively impact the world.
We need to be bold in our response to the needs in our communities. Florence Booth was when she began the ministry to women many years ago. We too are called as Salvationists to do something. This is our chance! Let’s rise to the challenge and help to sound the Battle Cry for all women and girls.
By Major Angela Strickland Divisional Women’s Ministries Secretary – Golden State Division
“Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.” Proverbs 31:30
Explore how we see ourselves vs how God sees us, through the lens Scripture.
Physical looks are what people typically think of when considering what beauty is. There was a recent news story about the perfect face having a certain symmetry…eyes, nose and mouth spaced just right. They even suggested specific actresses that fit the bill for that perfect look. I giggled out loud after having just read several biblical affirmations regarding the kind of beauty we should actually strive for.
Webster’s Dictionary defines beauty as “a combination of qualities such as shape, color, or form that pleases the aesthetic senses, especially the sight; a beautiful woman.“
How do you define beauty?
What does the Bible tell us about beauty?
You will find answers in both the Old and New Testaments
Read 1 Samuel 16:7 (Outward appearance vs the heart)
Read 2 Corinthians 3:18 (Transformed into His image)
What does the Lord look at?
(Read the Message version of 2 Corinthians 3:18 for a slightly different perspective)
There were several women that were called beautiful in the Bible – Job’s daughters, Rebekah, Bathsheba, Sarai, Esther, and more. However, we are reminded that the virtuous woman of noble character surpasses all.
Based upon what his mother taught him, King Lemuel in the book of Proverbs gives a clear description of a beautiful woman. He writes about a wife of noble character who is more valuable than rubies.
Read {Proverbs 31:30 (A woman who fears the Lord
Name 5 characteristics of a Proverbs 31 woman.
Some of the descriptors are still quite valid for us today.
Read 1 Peter 3:3-4 (NIV) (Beauty of great worth)
The Message version talks about our inner disposition and cultivating our inner beauty – “the gentle, gracious kind that God delights in.”
Inner beauty is reinforced in 2 Corinthians as we learn that outwardly we waste away, but inwardly we are renewed daily.
Read 2 Corinthians 4:16 (Inwardly renewed daily)
How can we cultivate inner beauty?
Practice compassion for yourself and others
Be authentic
Develop positive relationships
Cultivate the fruits of the Spirit
Pursue holiness
As you reflect Christ and grow in your faith, your inner beauty will shine through.
You are one of a kind!
You were uniquely designed by God – who created rainbows, sunsets and that amazing scent after an Arizona rain. Not only were you “fearfully and wonderfully” made, but David reinforces God’s design by saying that God’s works are wonderful. Meaning His creation of you is wonderful.
Psalm 139:14 (Fearfully and wonderfully made)
Read Ephesians 2:10 (God’s workmanship) (NIV/NLT)
When looking through the lens of God’s eyes, what types of beauty can be found in all people (list some ideas)?
God made all things beautiful. That includes you. God says you are so valued that He sent His Son to die for you.
Read Ecclesiastes 3:11a (He has made everything beautiful)
How does the world’s view of beauty differ from the biblical perspective?
Read Matthew 10:29-31, “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” (NIV)
What aspects about yourself do you appreciate as God’s Creation?
Can you think of someone in your life that needs to be reminded that they are valued?
Can you write down one characteristic that you like about yourself and thank God for it?
Prayer: Father, thank you that I am your beloved creation! Help me to understand and to see true beauty in myself and in others. Please help me to live out your beauty in ways that would honor you and help others. Continue your transforming work in my life as I seek knowledge and wisdom that would enable me to have a better self-image. Help me to remember that I was created in your image.
By Major Peggy Helms, Riverside, CA Corps & Major Angela Strickland, Divisional Women’s Ministries Secretary – Golden State Division
For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. Psalm 139:13-14 (NIV)
Don’t be swayed by the thoughts and comments of others. Understand who’s you are and how much God loves you – so you can understand and love yourself. God wants you to give Him the places in your heart that you won’t let others see. When you look into the mirror, allow the reflection coming back to be whom God sees – as you are “fearfully and wonderfully made” – Psalms 139:14.
Materials:
Small mirror (handheld or stand type)
Butterfly or flower stickers (3D style)
Colored chalk markers (reversible tip)
Clean cloth and water or glass cleaner
Directions: ⦁ Choose mirror style, handheld or stand type (Dollar/discount shops have them) ⦁ Wipe mirror so that it is free of dirt and smudges ⦁ Write “You Are Beautiful” on the mirror (you can print vinyl stickers with Cricut) ⦁ Decorate the mirror with your stick-on butterflies and/or flowers. You can also use a hot glue gun for items that are not stick-on.
Additional Scripture: So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. Genesis 1:7
Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. On account of these the wrath of God is coming. In these you too once walked, when you were living in them. But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth. Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator. Colossians 3:5-10
https://usw-womensministries.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IMG_2588-scaled.jpg25601920Beth Desplanckehttps://usw-womensministries.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/uswLogo-300x75-300x75.pngBeth Desplancke2024-11-06 12:41:462024-11-06 12:41:58January 2025 Craft: Created In His Image Mirror
By Major Angela Strickland Divisional Women’s Ministries Secretary – Golden State Division
Beauty is only skin deep…Beauty is in the eye of the beholder…common things we’ve heard said about beauty.
Our 18-year-old daughter is at that age where wearing make-up and styling her hair have become a bit more “needed” (job interviews, leading worship, youth group outings) than it was a few years ago. I am at that age where my hair is turning gray and the wrinkles that used to be in my clothing are now also on my face.
We are both acutely aware that with the emergence of social media websites such as Tik Tok and Instagram, things like lash lengthening mascara ads, plumped up lips and perfect eyebrows are given high status and warrant “likes” and comments from others.
It tends to make us look at ourselves in the mirror and measure our worth against what we presume society thinks is important. This can cause internal conflict resulting in low self-esteem or a lack of confidence.
Thankfully, we have a deeper sense of the value our Father places on us. What is on the inside is more valued than outward appearance.
Proverbs 31 is well known for its description of what a woman should consider about beauty. Specifically, verse 30, which tells us that “Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised” (NIV).
There is nothing wrong with outward beauty. Outward beauty is temporary, but inner beauty is described throughout Proverbs 31 about a woman who isn’t built solely on charm and beauty. There is a little more to this woman. She is wise, a provider, works hard, has a good sense of humor, helps others, she is strong and so much more. A woman who fears the Lord has characteristics of one who fears being separated from God. So, she lives her life worthy of His calling and commands.
His Word reinforces for us that true beauty is found on the inside. Peter tells us in 1 Peter 3:3-4 that “your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.”
The next time you pass a mirror, don’t think only about what your physical image reflects, but consider who’s you are and how you can reflect the beauty of His holiness.
Let’s Pray…
Father, thank you for looking beyond our outward appearance and for seeing our internal beauty. Allow us to see ourselves as you do and reveal in us areas that need transformation so that we may reflect the true beauty that is found in our relationship with you. Help us to look beyond the surface in others, and to acknowledge the godly qualities you have blessed them with. May our lives exemplify your love and grace so that others might draw closer to you. In Jesus name, Amen.
https://usw-womensministries.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/peter-kalonji-LH74lRYvBY4-unsplash-scaled.jpg25601707Beth Desplanckehttps://usw-womensministries.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/uswLogo-300x75-300x75.pngBeth Desplancke2024-11-06 12:40:552024-11-06 12:41:18January 2025 Devotional: Beauty from the Inside Out
Recently, I had the wonderful privilege of attending the USA Central Territory’s Abide Women’s Conference in Green Lake, Wisconsin. It was so exciting to go to a part of the country I had never been to before (first, but hopefully not my last, trip to Wisconsin). I was privileged to be invited to teach a workshop at this event. Although I was excited, I was also anxious. Going somewhere new meant there would be a lot of faces I did not know, and they would not know me.
I am friendly by nature, and have overcome a lot of shyness, but the thought of going to an unknown place, with unknown people, where I sort of knew a few people, was scary. Who would I sit with at meals? (Asking to sit at a table brings back lots of anxiety recalling the traumatic events of my middle school years when people did not want me to sit at their table). Would I spend the entire weekend alone in a sea of 700 women?
I knew that there were four people that I had met before. I worked with one at camp in the summer of 1989, another I met at a conference I attended two years ago, and then two that served on the same national committee as me (one of which invited to me to come participate in this weekend). And for the record, none of these four women would I call close friends, but acquaintances.
One of my assignments for the weekend was to help with the registration of all these women attending this event. I saw lot so faces, and heard lots of names of women I did not know. To my surprise, there were three additional names and faces I did recognize. Women from The Salvation Army USA Western Territory (where I am from) who are now settled in the central part of the US.
The lady next to me at registration, Cindy (a new friend I made over the weekend), would see a familiar face, and say, “I know you” and would find her name on the list. Each time she said that I felt a little lonely. I was startled when a sweet lady who was checking in said to me, “I know you” with a bright, big smile and arms opened wide, ready to hug me. I had no clue who this woman was, and I knew for certain I had never met her. She did not know me.
But I responded to her open arms, and we mutually hugged each other. She asked me how I have been? I responded with “fine.” We had a brief conversation. I have no idea if she ever realized the fact that she didn’t know me. But for that moment, I was reminded of the importance of being known.
The lady who claimed she knew me and hugged me, I never saw again over the weekend. I did get to meet lots of new friends, but to the woman who claimed she knew me, and offered this “lost in the crowd” person a warm greeting and friendly hug, I am eternally grateful.
It feels good to be known, for someone to recognize me, and know my name, and to truly know me. What a comfort it is that God knows me. He knows my name, and everything about me. David writes in Psalm 139:
You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you, Lord, know it completely. You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain (v. 1-6).
JJ Heller has a beautiful song, “Fully Known.” The song begins with these words:
Have you ever felt lost Driving down the same road every day? And you’re caught in traffic But everyone feels a thousand miles away Does anyone see you? Does anyone care? Does anyone know your name?
And then the chorus proclaims:
You are fully known by the Author of space and time He won’t let you go And you cannot change His mind No, you cannot change His mind.
In a sea of people, God knows you. He knows your name. He knows your thoughts. He knows the way you take. God knows all about you. There is no mistaken identity; you and I can never get lost in the crowd. Celebrate the fact that you are fully known by the Author of space and time.
https://usw-womensministries.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/jon-tyson-566CgCRSNCk-unsplash-scaled.jpg17072560Beth Desplanckehttps://usw-womensministries.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/uswLogo-300x75-300x75.pngBeth Desplancke2024-10-22 09:34:382024-10-22 09:35:24God Knows Me
By Major Gaylene Yardley Divisional Women’s Ministries Secretary – Southwest Division
From Trash to Treasure – Acts 3:1-26 It was, is, and will be only through Jesus that…
The lame man was restored – v. 6-10 a. Physically Restored
Illustration: Many years ago, I found myself in a new appointment with upholstered dining room chairs. They were, of course, white and they were no longer white. I felt bad when I looked at those chairs. They were so dingy, distressed, and dirty. The Lame man was I am sure, all those things, dingy, distressed, and dirty. After being carried to the city gate called “Beautiful” every day to beg, I ‘m sure he looked a little like my chairs. I decided one day that I was going to do something about the look of those chairs, they were nice chairs, they just needed to be physically restored. Therefore, they were restored and now look like they have a new life. Restoration of trash to treasure is like this…Jesus takes our trash that we make of our lives with the decisions we make, and He alone can make our trash into a treasure.
You can be restored – v. 17-20 a. Spiritually Restore
Verse 19 tells us that we need to repent and turn to God so that your sins may be wiped out! What a great promise that if we accept Jesus as our Savior and God, we can have our sins taken completely away.
Illustration: I have a big whiteboard in my office that I put all kinds of notes on. I even use my windows for notes. When I am done with one of those things on my list, I just wipe it off the window or whiteboard. It is gone if I use whiteboard markers. If I do not use those, it stays there a bit longer until it wears off. We do not have to wait for the wearing off with Jesus. He takes it off immediately and it is gone!
All things will be restored in the end – v. 21-26
We are heirs of the kingdom due to our adoption into His family and as we continue to follow His will in our lives, we have the assurance of being with Him in the end. We will be restored to a new heaven and in new bodies and in perfect fellowship with Jesus forever.
Trash to treasure is in the eye of the beholder.
What can you do today with any of these things I have brought into the program? The treasure is in your creative mind. Let us see what we can make today from this “stuff.’
Directions I found these at a thrift store, and I like mushrooms so I wondered what I could do with it. Thanks to Pinterest, I found some great ideas. I picked this one as I love wind chimes. The Hat was my creation as I doodle all the time.
I also made a dirty felt hat into something fun to wear. I used sharpie markers and hairspray to set it.
This is what I found and wanted to make into something I liked. I paid $3.00 for it.
Supplies needed. I bought the long-beaded garlands from Hobby Lobby for half price and got two times as many beads from that.
I got the buttons from the thrift store.
For attaching the beads.
The bells were half price at Hobby Lobby and on a garland of their own. I cut them apart.
This is the finished project. I really like it. It is fun and a bit funky like me.
Use gloves if you have problems with your skin and jute. It can mess you up.
I was very blessed in my life to have two very godly grandmothers who always made me feel special. There was never a doubt in my mind that I was precious to them-that I belonged to them. My paternal grandmother was outgoing and involved in every aspect of our little corps, taking the position of YPSM for many years while my maternal grandmother was a very shy, quiet lady who would never speak in public. While she never learned to read or write, the love of God was evident in the way she lived her quiet life. I saw Jesus in both my grandmothers and felt special to God because of their godly influence in my life.
On April 28, 2023, I became a grandmother…affectionally known as Nana! My prayer for Callum is that he will grow up knowing he is precious, to his family and to God. When we visit, it warms my heart to listen to our son and daughter-in-law read Bible stories to Callum at night before bed. He will know at the very start of his life that he is God’s precious child.
The scriptures give us many wonderful reminders of our worth in Christ. The book of Isaiah is broken into two themes. Part one, which includes chapters 1-39 is known as the book of judgement and part two, which includes chapters 40-66 is known as the book of comfort. Here, in part two, Isaiah prophecies about the exiles being brought home, and restoration of the nation begins. In Isaiah 49, beginning with verse 8, God is promising the restoration of the nation which he loves and cares for even though they are feeling forsaken and forgotten by God. Verse 15 gives us a beautiful picture of God’s love and care for us. It’s impossible to read verse 15 without feeling precious!
“Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you! See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands.”
What a reminder of our worth! While we can’t possibly fathom a mother who can so easily forget her baby, this scripture reminds us that it can and does indeed happen. Not so with God! A mother may forget and not show compassion, but God will not forget you. God will not forget me. We have been created in the image of God and we are precious to him…engraved on the palms of his hands.
Psalm 139 is yet another reminder of how precious we are to God. The whole psalm speaks of our being known and loved by God. Verses 17-18 from the Living Bible reads, “How precious it is, Lord, to realize that you are thinking about me constantly! I can’t even count how many times a day your thoughts turn toward me. And when I waken in the morning, you are still thinking of me!”
Have you ever had someone remark to you, “I have been thinking about you a lot lately?” How has that made you feel? I would assume that it made you feel loved, cared for and precious. While on summer vacation this year, I was able to connect with a cousin I have not seen in over thirty years and a school friend I have not seen in over forty years. In our conversation we remarked that reconnecting after all these years was the “icing on the cake” to our vacation. Reminiscing and reflecting on our growing up years, reminded us of how precious our time was together and how precious our friendships were. I left my hometown this summer following vacation, feeling blessed to be able to reconnect after so many years with people who are precious to me.
I recognize that there may be people reading this blog whose upbringing left you feeling unloved and uncared for. Like the nation of Israel while in exile, you may have even felt forgotten by God at times in your life. I want to assure you again that YOU ARE HIS PRECIOUS CHILD! You are loved, you matter, you belong in God’s family. In God’s family there are no favorite children. Someone has aptly said, “There is nothing we can do to make God love us any less and there is nothing we can do to make God love us more.”
Please hear this, GOD LOVES YOU! You are precious to him and there is nothing more beautiful than watching people flourish in their identity in Christ as his precious and dearly loved child.
https://usw-womensministries.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/manuel-schinner-ZwjFuJ7ebpk-unsplash-scaled.jpg17072560Beth Desplanckehttps://usw-womensministries.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/uswLogo-300x75-300x75.pngBeth Desplancke2024-09-04 08:34:182024-09-04 08:37:33You are His Precious Child
Welcome to the third year of the Flourish Newsletter. This year we are going to focus on flourishing in our identity in Christ. You are priceless to God!
What is identity? Identity is the unique set of characteristics that can be used to identify a person as themselves and no one else. The word can be used in different ways in different contexts. On a personal level, identity often refers to a person’s sense of self, meaning how they view themselves as compared to other people. The concept of identity in Christ is a Christian belief that a person’s identity is rooted in their relationship with Jesus Christ, rather than in themselves. This month the newsletter focuses on our identity as children of God.
Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God – children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God. John 1:12-13
Included in this month’s newsletter is a devotion, prayer idea, conversation starters, and Bible reading plan to help you focus on your identity as a child of God. New this year is a column entitled, “Identity Statements,” verses from Scripture that proclaim who you are in Christ, for you to memorize, meditate on and claim in your life.
Also this year, we have a Spotify Playlist filled with over 50 songs that speak of who you are in Christ – your identity because of Him: WM 2024-2025 Priceless
By Major Sybil Smith Torrance, CA Corps – Southern California Division
“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” 1 John 3:1a
Welcome to, “You are His precious child.” In this study, you will read and listen to the words of “Who You Say I Am” from Hillsong Worship. They are amazing words that can bring confidence, hope and encouragement to your heart. You will also be looking into the Scriptures, the Word of God; which inspired the words of the song.
When we know this truth, not because Hillsong Worship proclaims it, but because the Word of God declares it; it will go beyond just the heart and will give strength, hope and joy to your soul!
Don’t rush through these Bible Studies. Really, take time to read, listen and contemplate the truth God is needing you to hear. It’s ok if this takes more than one sitting to complete. Take as many sessions as you need to get through the study.
Ok, let’s get right to it. First let’s look at the song that has been chosen to go with the truth of being His (God’s) precious child. The song is “Who You Say I Am” from Hillsong Worship. Please take a moment to read through the words of this song. https://www.musixmatch.com/lyrics/Maranatha-Music/Who-You-Say-I-Am-1
Now take another few moments to listen to the song:
After you have done the above, take a moment to pray that the Lord will have favor over you as you take time in this study. That His favor will affirm who you are. That His favor will challenge you to not put anything about you down … but rather show you … wherever you are right at this moment … the truth of who you are and how God, through Jesus Christ His Son, can reconcile anything in you that makes you feel anything less than His precious child.
I know you may very likely be someone who already knows the Word well and you know where this song stems from Scripture. If you know that, then you know Scripture enough to understand that there is not any amount of time you can re-read God’s Word that He won’t speak into your heart every time. So, whether you are someone new to the Bible, or someone who has read it cover to cover a few times; you will find joy in being reminded – or discovering for the first time – how you have been created to be His precious child!
VERSE 1 As you read the first verse in the song, the first three words are, “Who am I?” May I propose that whatever you say you are, or whatever others have said you are, that God’s Word says you are MORE?
You are more in these three ways: ⦁ You have more worth than you may see. ⦁ You are more cherished than you may realize. ⦁ You have more purpose than you may know.
Let’s take a moment to break down these three truths that help to illustrate the fact that you are created to be His precious child.
You have MORE worth than you may see.
Having Great Worth- Value, significance. The opposite would be worthlessness which can’t be you because you’re here, on this earth … No person makes it to this earth without worth, value, or significance. You have been born into this world because God knew your specific life was going to be significant, of value, of great worth to someone else.
Write out Jeremiah 29:11 here:
What does this say about you right now?
You are MORE cherished than you may realize.
Cherished meaning loved, held in high esteem. The opposite would be abandoned, not cared for, forsaken which is something far too many people feel right now.
If you have been made to feel abandoned, unloved or forsaken … there are those who cherish you, who love you and want to invest in your life and help you feel and know you are cherished.
Write out Psalm 139:14 & John 15:12-13:
What does this say about you right now?
You have MORE purpose than you may know.
Having absolute, innate Purpose meaning, natural hope, and expectation. The opposite would be hopelessness, without purpose. You have been chosen to be here on this earth at this time. It doesn’t make sense that you would be here for no reason. It is a guarantee that your life has made an impact on that of another life. Good or bad, you have made an impact.
Write out Psalm 139:13 & John 15:16 here:
What does this say about you right now?
This song has beautifully captured who we are in Jesus Christ.
The greatest thing about who we are- is it doesn’t matter what WE say we are, or what OTHERS say we are. Who we are is who God declares us as being. He made humanity from the dust of the earth.
Write down Genesis 2:7:
He formed us in our mother’s womb.
Write down Psalm 139:13-14:
Write your thoughts concerning these verses you just wrote down, and you, where you are right now in life.
When someone takes so much care, detail, time, focus, attention and love in creating something … that someone will want to ensure what they have created will be cherished, will be taken care of. They will not want to see it harmed, broken or marred.
God created you with that kind of care and love.
Another few words in the first verse of the song is, “I was lost but He brought me in. Oh His love for me.”
Write down Romans 5:6-8:
Write down John 3:16:
Write down 1 John 3:1:
What do these three verses say about Gods love for you as a precious child of God?
God’s love for you is so much that He sent Jesus to suffer and die for your sins, so you would have the hope of salvation despite the sin in your life. He loves you enough to forgive any sin you can ask Him to forgive. He not only forgives, but then helps you to not return to it.
The moment you acknowledged sin, confessed that sin to Jesus, asked Jesus to forgive your sin and live within you to help you and guide you- that’s when you became a precious child of God.
What other verses can you find in the Bible about God’s love for you? List them here along with any thoughts about the verses you write down.
VERSE 2
The words in this second verse to take a closer look at is, “His grace runs deep. While I was a slave to sin, Jesus died for me.”
You touched on this in some of the verses you’ve already written down. While you were a slave to sin, Jesus died for you. If you are reading this study and you find yourself at this moment overwhelmed by sin, by the shackles, or the effects of sin… understand the Lord Jesus Christ loves you right now, this very moment, just as you are. You don’t need to do a thing to gain that love… it’s already there and it runs very deep for you.
Write down Ephesians 2:4-5:
What do these verses say about you and any sin that may be present right now?
Write down Romans 6:20-23:
What do these verses say about the grace of God?
Every person has found themselves a slave to sin at some point in their lives. Every person has had, or will have to come to a point where that sin is acknowledged, confessed to the Lord and asked to be forgiven. In God’s Grace, He forgives, forgives and forgives again.
God sees you. God knows you. God loves you. God knows your heart. He is able to be what you need and lead you by His Holy Spirit.
CHORUS The best thing is that while God loves you just where you are, even if where you are is in the throes of sin; His love doesn’t want you to stay there. He wants more than anything to pick you up out of that place and put you down in a place of freedom, joy, strength and hope. From being a slave to sin, to being a precious child of God.
Read these words from the chorus: Who the Son sets free Oh is free indeed I’m a precious child of God Yes I am
Write down Romans 6:17-18:
What do you think of the concept of being free from sin, and becoming a slave to righteousness?
A slave is a person who is someones property. They are bound to obey their master who owns them. I don’t know anyone who wants to be considered a slave. But the truth is, we are all slaves to the one who controls us. Who controls you? Do you control you? Does satan control you? Does God control you?
You have a choice everyday who you will serve. There is only one master who will truly let you live in freedom and it’s not you or satan. Only God, in Jesus Christ, through the Holy Spirit, brings freedom and so much more as His precious child.
Let’s look at the second part of the chorus: In my Father’s house There’s a place for me I’m a precious child of God Yes I am
Write Down John 14:1-4:
What does this verse say about life after death? How does that make you feel as you think of your life in Jesus not just for today, but for forever?
You are a precious child of God not just while you are here on earth, but forever in the hands of God. He’s got a home all set for you when your time here has ended.
Write down 1 John 3:2-3:
What are your thoughts on this verse? Focus on these key words: “not yet been made known”, “shall be like Him”, “purify themselves”. What do you think this verse means for you, and your standing, as a precious child of God?
BRIDGE This to me is the best part of the song: I am chosen, not forsaken I am who You say I am You are for me, not against me I am who You say I am I am chosen, not forsaken I am who You say I am You are for me, not against me I am who You say I am I am who You say I am
This has some powerful words: I am Chosen. You are for me. I am who You say I am.
Write down John 15:16-17:
What does this say about your life as a precious child of God? Especially focusing on the latter part of the verses.
It’s important to realize that you are seen, loved and accepted as a precious child of God because of who you are. That you are a benefactor if His grace when you yielded your life to Jesus in repentance and in serving Him. Read Galatians 5:22-23 to be reminded of some of the benefits God gives you as His precious child.
You are a precious child of God. Not just so you can relish in that truth. Not just so you can benefit from His work in you. Not just so you can receive the gift of eternal life.
You are a precious child of God so that your life can also draw others into a relationship with Jesus. It is not just for yourself that you are saved. It is also for the benefit of others that you are saved.
Write down 1 John 3:16-18:
You are a part of the family of God. As a precious child of God, in reference to these verses you wrote down; how are you supposed to treat others ego are in the family of God along with you?
Write down 1 Peter 4:7-11:
List ways in which your life, as a precious child of God, displays the kind of living described in the verses you just wrote down.
Do you see how you are precious? Do you see how you are more?
Being a precious child of God is redeeming … it is freeing … it is affirming … it is something that’s secure and eternal.
Write down your thoughts as to what you understand your life to be as a precious child if God.
FOR FURTHER STUDY For further depth into God’s Word. Use a concordance to look up verses containing these key words don’t just read the verse indicated but read the passage surrounding it to get a full understanding of its meaning. Write down the verses and your thoughts concerning them:
https://usw-womensministries.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/samantha-sophia-NaWKMlp3tVs-unsplash-scaled.jpg17072560Beth Desplanckehttps://usw-womensministries.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/uswLogo-300x75-300x75.pngBeth Desplancke2024-08-23 10:30:022024-08-23 10:30:23October 2024 Bible Study: You Are His Precious Child
