Author Archives: Marilyn

TWO COMPETENT CRAFTSMEN – Intro to Lesson 4

Do you believe that when people create something of great beauty, it brings a smile to the face of God? When a composer writes “an elaborate musical composition for full orchestra”, which we call a symphony, does it please Him? When a sculptor is able to take a piece of stone or wood and gradually carve out a recognizable and detailed person or creature, does He cheer? When a gardener carefully decides what flowers should be in the garden and then some time later there is an array of color and beauty that is spectacular, is there a exclamation of approval that comes from heaven? Perhaps we should even ask ourselves if it is a joyful and good thing in the sight of God whenever His children use their creative talents, whatever they might be.

While the Israelites were in slavery in Egypt, it is unlikely that the parents of two particular young boys realized that someday these boys would be the “project managers” for an extremely big and important project. The talent of those boys must have been obvious because they learned to be master designers and craftsmen when they were in slavery. Apparently they also observed during those formative years how to motivate and oversee people as well as how to delegate work and inspire the others to do their very best. Isn’t it interesting that when God gave Moses the explicit and detailed instructions for building the tabernacle, the place of His presence, that Moses also understood it was “the Lord who had gifted these young men with the wisdom and ability to build this sanctuary”.   In fact, for the first time in Scripture, we learn they were “filled with the Spirit of God.” Only the best of materials and the finest of workmanship were used so this place would reflect the beauty of God’s character in every way possible.

It is true that very few of us will become famous or have our name in the limelight somewhere, but all of us have the opportunity to hear Jesus say to us, “Well done, My good and faithful servant.” Isn’t that the best recognition possible?

TWO FEARLESS MIDWIVES – Intro to Lesson 2 –

We live in a culture where tolerance is seen as a very important personal trait. Perhaps discovering the definition of the word “tolerant” is key to deciding if it is a characteristic that you want to fully adopt or not. For some people, tolerance is simply “withholding the power to coerce conformity” or being gracious,…… Continue Reading

A TRUSTWORTHY SERVANT – Intro to Lesson 1 – September 17 – 24

Whether you are the employer or the employee, there is one characteristic that will greatly influence the long-term success or the failure of your organization or business. One expert has rightly said “this quality is the most valuable commodity in the workplace.” While having a good work ethic, being dependable, having a positive attitude and…… Continue Reading

FOR WHAT WILL YOU BE REMEMBERED?

Have you been to a “Memorial Service” recently?  It is usually a special time when friends and family gather together to honor or to remember a family member or a friend and to bring solace to those who are grieving the loss in very deep and personal ways.  For people of faith in Jesus Christ,…… Continue Reading

YOUR INVITATION –

It has been said that a well-written biography can be “as exciting as one of your favorite thrillers, more motivating than a self-help best seller or more compelling than a high pressure sales pitch”.  Have you noticed that some of the most intriguing stories are not focused on high profile or famous people, but on…… Continue Reading

REAL PEOPLE . . . REAL FAITH

A Bible study written just for people like you and me – Ordinary! A Bible study written for those of us who want God to accomplish extraordinary things through us – day by day. Join us this fall and use the lessons on your own schedule or on ours – starting September 17. Lessons can…… Continue Reading

REAL PEOPLE . . . REAL FAITH

Let’s take a look at the lives of some of the ordinary people who are mentioned in the Bible! You already know about King David and Daniel, Jonah and Paul. But how about Shiphrah and Jahaziel and Huldah? Join us this fall as we get acquainted with some very “ordinary” people whom God used in…… Continue Reading