bibleMaybe you are comfortable praying and studying the Bible.

Maybe it’s brand new to you.

This is how I do it.

Each morning I carve out time to read one chapter of the Bible. Right now I’m in Romans (love, love Chapter 8!). I dig deep into whatever chapter I’m in.

Then I spend time in prayer, simply talking to God. I love the scripture in Matthew 6:8 that says, He knows what you need before you even ask. That takes all the pressure off. I come in as Suzie, because He knows me. He knows my heart. He knows my needs. My desire to grow as a woman of faith.

And then I stretch a little bit more as I read a devo, or a book that challenges me in my faith to stretch and mature spiritually.

After your personal study time, prayerfully ask these questions. Journal your answers.

Keep this in mind as you take this deeper. Remember, it’s our focus for this week:

Not what was, but what can be. . .

1. Have you ever had someone say, “Just forgive”. How did that affect your ability to forgive?

 

2. Jesus meets you right where you are. Describe where you are today. Maybe it’s at “I’ve been trying to do this for 20 years” or “I have no clue if this is for me or not”. Regardless, take a moment and invite God to join you right this moment. Write it in a form of a prayer.

 

3. Suzie described (in the Introduction of The Unburdened Heart) her one unhealthy belief was that she always had to take care of herself, which makes it hard to ask for help. What is one unhealthy belief that you’ve embraced from the past?

a. That’s what “was”, so let’s place that unhealthy belief between you and God, who loves you like crazy. Ask Him to help you take one small step in a new direction in this area.

 

4. Write down one question you’ve always had about forgiving. (You’ll revisit this much later in the study.)

 

5. John 8:32 (NIV), says, “And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” What do you hope that free looks like?

 

Next Monday we’ll dig into Chapter Two, discovering what forgiveness is, and what it’s not.

Have you purchased The Unburdened Heart yet? It will take each chapter so much deeper, giving you time to reflect on the many scriptures, and the powerful stories inside. It has a Take It Deeper section that you can use individually, and it’s also great for small groups, like your church, or mom’s group, or with a friend.

The Unburdened Heart is your invitation to discover the freedom of forgiveness. Take the first step toward freedom today!.

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