The Unseen will Be Revealed

*The great Day of the Lord is near, near and rapidly approaching. Listen, the Day of the Lord—there the warrior’s cry is bitter. Zephaniah 1:14*

Happy Friday friends! I pray this day finds you filled with God’s joy regardless of the circumstances and issues you are facing in life. Today, I feel the need to remind you, as well as myself, that we are all properly prepared to handle life through our belief in Christ Jesus. We are welcome to approach the throne of God and can boldly lay our burdens at His feet.

This gives me HOPE! What about you?

Scripture clears backs up these thoughts in Hebrews 4:14-16, Therefore since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens-Jesus the Son of God-let us hold fast to the confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tested in every way as we are, yet without sin. Therefore let us approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us at the proper time.

PAUSE—God knows and He will come through!

Thank you for your grace to allow me to “squirrel” prior to this posting. Just felt it necessary to share my own inward struggle and thoughts before I wrote the main segment.

The Refining ministry is continuing their Monday night online studies of Major Wisdom through Minor Prophets for the remainder of 2021. We recently started Zephaniah and boy, Chapter 1 was a dozy! There were a few who stated it seemed like a scene from a horror show. However, the valued learning and deep discussion shared during the hour was, once again, an overwhelming blessing to my heart. I am blown away each time we meet—this week God revealed hope and compassion even in a difficult passage.

Our ministry believes in infusing Scripture into daily living. Each week, we are challenged to allow the Lord to guide us and press into the message He has individually-based on our Bible intake.

Thinking about Chapter 1 of Zephaniah, I approached the garden to see if we had any new produce to harvest. I took my phone with me because I wanted to capture the beauty and growth.

SIDENOTE: WOW! If you could only see our garden. It is the most remarkable, overgrown jungle ever because we have received more rain in the past few weeks than we normally receive in a year. Yes, we live in Texas, but we are in the “desert” for the most part. We have never had a garden this abundant.

Once I had a chance to review the photos, the carrot picture caught my attention. I began thinking about Zephaniah. The people of Judah seemed to be flourishing just like the tops of our carrots. Everyone seemed to have what they needed to survive. They believed in God and worshiped Him. However, they also paid homage to other “gods” with their daily acts and rituals. Their hearts were receiving a fatal cocktail.

Zephaniah came as the last warning to Judah. He wanted them to take an inward look and focus on their roots and fruit-the unseen! Just like the roots and carrots growing underground in our garden. Their hearts-a place where fruit can wither or grow.

Our heart generates our thoughts which then produces our words, actions, viewpoints, etc. When we are filling our lives with proper nutrition, God, the fruit we produce can be pleasing to the Lord. However, Zephaniah Chapter 1 clearly states that we cannot partially serve God and partially serve “gods” with the expectation that we will not experience harm to the fruit we produce. We will eventually wither and die! OUCH! It distorts our thinking of ourselves as well as others.

Our carrots will not produce an abundant harvest in the fall if we occasionally expose them to contaminated water. They want pure, clean goodness overflowing with all the necessary nutrients. No matter how beautiful they seem above ground, the measure of their true work is revealed once their “roots” are exposed.

This made me take an inward inventory is so many ways. What do I fill my heart with daily? What do my actions, words, and thoughts reveal? Am I guilty of syncretism-mixing true worship with false? Do I fall into a complacent state when it comes to praying, worshiping, studying, reading, witnessing, etc.? Are there times when I limit my intake of God and allow worldly “junk” to enter His vessel?

Yes-all that from Zephaniah Chapter 1-plus so much more.

Listen, I am but a simple woman trying to do my best to love and serve God with all that I am. I mess up more than succeed-trust me! However, in this spiritual pathway, this I know for sure: God loves us beyond measure, and He will not give up on us.

So, with an earnest heart I cry, Father God fill me with your goodness, weed out the junk I have allowed, let my fruit reveal You, Oh Lord, help me lay my burdens down, and heal me from within so all that I do is pleasing unto You. I am sorry Lord for my disobedience and my unclean heart. I need You, Oh I need You! Reveal the unseen with compassion and help me stay under your authority regardless. I love you Father God!

July 16, 2021 2

Comparison (guest writer: Robin Gonzales)

Photo by Maksim Goncharenok on Pexels.com

Now while they were on their way, it occurred that Jesus entered a certain village, and a woman named Martha received and welcomed Him into her home. And she had a sister named Mary, who seated herself at the Lord’s feet and was listening to His teachings. But Martha [overly occupied and too busy] was distracted with much serving; and she came up to Him and said, “Lord, is it nothing to You that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me [to lend a hand and do her part along with me]!” But the Lord replied to her by saying “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things; There is need of only one or but a few things. Mary has chosen the good portion [that which is to her advantage], which shall not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:38-42)

For my sake–can we camp here awhile? Why? I would like to share several things God had me unpack based on this Scripture.

God met me at a ladies retreat many years ago and had me take a closer look at this passage. He had a message for me, just like He did for Martha.

It was a busy time in my life with work, church, family, etc. I was too busy and not happy with the way my life was going. (Have you ever experienced this?) I could see other people getting to do things and go places–all the things my heart desired to do and all the places I dreamed of going. Yet, I did not seem to have the time!! I wanted more time in my life and above all I craved a deeper relationship with God.

I was playing the Martha (martyr) roll well. When would it be my turn? Why does everyone else seem to be receiving what I desired?

I, like Martha, took my complaint to God and He answered me much the same way He answered her.

Let me share four points the Lord revealed for me:

Everyone has the same number of hours in their day. It is up to you and you alone to decide what you do with yours. First, make time for ME and everything else that matters will fall into place. Stop trying to work ME into your schedule.

Did anyone ask you to do all the things you have filled your time with? If they have, there is a tiny little word “No” you need to include in your vocabulary. Check in with Me. I will assist you in determining if it is in My plan for you–we will only do these things.

Stay in your own lane and stop comparing your life to other people. Each life is unique and has blessings and hardships that are specialize for their journey. Lessons to be learned and an individualized timing. Learn to be content where you are and what you are doing right now. Be present in every moment.

Nothing apart from God is perfect. Stop worrying about appearances and what other people think. You are perfectly and wonderfully made.

Digging down into this verse and gaining God’s perspective helped me apply it to my life situation and daily living. What a blessing it has been. I still have my moments when I let things in life creep up and overwhelm me, but the Holy Spirit is there to remind me of the lesson. He reminds me that we have already walked through together and I can now take the short cut–I do not have to walk the long trail around that Martha mountain again. I have to release my control and remember the four tips from Luke 10 God unpacked for me.

My overall takeaway from God’s message:

Seek Him, give my burdens to Him, and regroup with the Lord’s strength.

July 10, 2021 1

God’s Message in the Brushstrokes

*Rejoice in the Lord always, I will say again: Rejoice! Philippians 4:4 (HCSB)*

How is your summer? Have you had the opportunity to go on vacation yet? Hopefully, you have experienced a few grilled meals along with ice-cold watermelon and an occasional smore or two.

I am delighted to report Refining Ministries had a fruitful ladies retreat last weekend in Stephenville, Texas. We spent a little over 40 hours together learning and sharing ways to enrich personal Bible intake (plus laughing, playing games, eating, painting, crafting, and a wee bit of sleeping). We will continue delivering this training in the days ahead for churches interested in feeding into their women’s ministry because of the significant impact we have seen when participants experience the power of God’s Word.

One of my favorite parts of the event was the painting session. We had a local artist offer a class for those interested in attending. She had the ladies engage in designing a work of art which incorporated flowers. As I observed each canvas coming to life, God gave me a wonderful message I want to share with you.

The first thing I noticed was all participants were given proper supplies and tools. God does the very same thing. He generously provides His Word and the Holy Spirit as means for us to utilize. Our Father ensures His supplies will meet our every need and delivers top quality-ever lasting supplies to fully equip us.

Do what you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:9

Just like the instructions the artist gave; God gives us opportunities to learn how to comprehend and engage with His Word and grow to know the spirit within us. He lovingly gives us free choice to progress in our spiritual journey at the rate of speed we choose. This was so apparent as each lady listened and observed the instructor. The degrees of experience and levels of confidence were displayed in their first brushstrokes on the canvas. The comfort zones became very transparent.

For it is God who is working in you, [enabling you] both to will and to act for His good purpose. Philippians 2:13

I loved how each lady was fully supported and encouraged. You could feel an atmosphere of joy, relaxation, and sheer delight. The environment of struggle and worry was not present. Doesn’t this remind you of God? He always has our back plus He gives us unexplainable joy when we engage with Him. (I could stay right here and give you tons of analogies the Lord revealed, but I will move onward)

Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable-if there is any moral excellence and if there is any praise-dwell on these things. Philippians 4:8

As I watched in amazement, the brushstrokes of each lady reminded me of the purpose God has for each of us. He uniquely designed the talents, likes, experiences, skills, growth, training, etc. for each of these women-in order for them to create their own personalized exhibit. Although they all received the same instructions and were exposed to the very same words of the instructor, their paintings were distinctive. WOW-I was reminded that God is not in the cookie cutter business. He fashioned everyone for a special part of His overall plan. He urges us to use what we have been given to present His love–so the world can be drawn to His beauty.

He will transform the body of our humble condition into the likeness of His glorious body, by the power that enables Him to subject everything to Himself. Philippians 3:21

(Sorry, not everyone is present in the photo and some paintings were already packed away!)

We are His canvas! The brushstrokes we add to our inward and outward presentation will reveal the attributes of our sweet Lord if we humble ourselves to live under His authority. Our canvas can be a priceless work of art for the lives of others!

Who directs your brushstrokes in life?

My goal is to know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death. Philippians 3:10

July 9, 2021 3

ZEPHANIAH: 3 week study

Happy July friends!

It is that time again–to gear back up and continue the online Bible study series, Major Wisdom through the Minor Prophets. This month’s study will only be three weeks and focus on one chapter a week.

Together we will embrace Bible intake and discuss our reflections from personal readings via Zoom. Weekly, we will uncover the original meaning from the author and uncover the takeaways for each of us individually. Digging into Scripture with like-minded sisters in Christ is a powerful experience.

Come join us for three weeks-one hour a week. Zephaniah will begin July 12th at 6:00 p.m.

July 12th –Chapter 1

July 19th –Chapter 2

July 26th –Chapter 3

Please email the Refining Ministry, refining.journey@gmail.com by July 11^th if you would like to participate. We will send you the link and additional materials for the study once we hear from you.

Let us know if you have any questions! Also, if you know of anyone who might be interested in attending, please forward this information to them.

In His Name,

Genna Stotts

July 6, 2021 0

God-I Have Questions

Hello! Yes, it has been longer than normal since the last posting. I pray you and your family are doing well and embracing the new summer season. In the words of our sweet little Jude, “It is hot, hot!” So, enjoy, kickback, and take joy in the pool, sprinkler, air conditioner, etc. This too shall pass.

Refining ministries has begun a season of study entitled, “Major Wisdom through Minor Prophets”. This month we are diving deep into Habakkuk. I refer to him as the “why bird”. He was a bold prophet-brave enough to address God with his questions and honest concerns. Although I am not sure he liked the response he received, Habakkuk felt confident enough to layout his true thoughts before God.

While reflecting on our group discussions, I had to question myself about my faith when it comes to asking the Lord hard questions. Oh, I often ask for things-healing, comfort, renewal, restoration, self-discipline, etc. for others as well as myself. Yet, I don’t regularly ask why God is doing what He is. So, I had to ask myself “Why not?” What can I learn from Habakkuk to strengthen my relationship with the Lord?

Let me share my revelations:

1. Habakkuk was very secure in his relationship with God. He brought his concerns directly to the one who is in charge. (Habakkuk 1:2) He didn’t hop on Facebook and ask his social network. Habakkuk wasn’t one to run to the nearest neighbor and complain about God’s delay based on his timetable. This prophet went straight to the best source-the Almighty Father-the maker of heaven and earth.

Lesson one: Go to God first!

2. Habakkuk was raw and open about his deepest thoughts. (Habakkuk 1:2-4) He didn’t beat around the bush or try to sweet talk his way around asking. Straight to the point was his approach. Let’s get down to business and spill out what is troubling the heart.

Lesson two: Don’t waste God’s time-get to the point & share your deepest concerns.

3. Habakkuk wasn’t shy about expressing the fact he could not understand God’s ways. He immediately began asking why. What is taking you so long to end this awful behavior and destruction? He asked GOD boldly-the God of the universe. Wow-the thought of doing this is not as comfortable for me as it seems to be for Habakkuk. But why not? God has our back and loves us so much. God is big enough to handle our questions no matter what they may contain.

Lesson three: If you don’t understand God’s ways, ask why? He is willing to listen.

4. The Lord answered Habakkuk with a reply which was shocking to him. (Habakkuk 1:12-17) God will respond, but we may not like the answer. God knows the future and is working out all things according to His plans. His ways are not ours nor do they often align with our human understanding. However, we must be willing to embrace the Lord’s perspective.

Lesson four: Be willing to see the situation through the eyes of God.

All this in just Chapter 1! Major wisdom through a minor prophet’s boldness to go to God first, get straight to the point, ask God why when not understanding, and be willing to see the situation through the eyes of the Lord. What knowledge to take to heart when having questions about issues in life. I have many!!!

What about you?

How do these four points assist you in dealing with difficulties you incur?

Times when you just want to know WHY?

Let God be your Rock just like Habakkuk.

Blessings my friends!

June 23, 2021 4

RETREAT: July 1-3, 2021

Click on the following link for details: https://form.jotform.com/210085684319155

June 5, 2021 0

The Power of One

I will give them a heart to know me, that I am the Lord. They will be my people, and I will be their God, for they will return to me with all their heart. Jeremiah 24:7 (NIV)

It has often been said that the power of one can cause earthshaking results. The power of one can begin a ripple effect continuing for generations to come. Remember, …if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move… – Matthew 17:20. Why?-because of your trust in the Power of the ultimate One!

My heart aches for those struggling in their faith. I have been there! It almost caused me to throw in the towel! I felt hopeless. PERIOD! Hopeless. I promised God (even while I was in the dark pit) that I would make a change and I would even be an agent of change for those who struggled in their faith and spiritual maturity. I decided my dash would matter!

I hear you loud and clear–how can one person really make a difference. Let me just say-I am living proof that through the Father all things are possible! I can barely recognize the person God is refining let alone believe I am still alive. If you had told me three years ago where I would be today I would have told you “You have the wrong person!”

You too have the power of one. It begins with your spiritual growth and commitment. Then it continues with your investment in just one. The impact of your life can leave a legacy from your extension of God’s love and grace.

Let me encourage you to take a deeper leap of faith:

Come to the Ladies retreat in July. This opportunity will give you lots of encouragement and practical ways to stay connected to God.

2. Tell someone about it! Encourage them to go. Pay for their gas to get there and back. Get out of your comfort zone and move those mountains! Someone’s life depends upon it.

3. Can’t go yourself. Pray! We need your prayers. Watch someone else’s children, house, pets, etc. so they can attend.

4. Our earthly time is unknown. Please make use of your dash.

For this reason you also must be ready; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour when you do not think He will.

Matthew 24:44

June 4, 2021 0

Nahum: A Fatal Blow

Photo by Mike on Pexels.com “The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him.” Nahum 1:7 (NIV)

Happy Friday my dear friends. I hope you have an exciting weekend planned. They always go by so fast.

Refining ministries have been conducting short studies over minor prophets via Zoom. We take one chapter a week, read it on our own, dig into deeper meaning through personal resources, and then come together and discuss. This has been a delightful experience.

Over the past three weeks we have been focusing upon Nahum. I know—I hear you—why in the world Nahum? I thought the same thing when we studied Obadiah and now when my mind wonders into the judgement zone, I remind myself of the takeaway from Obadiah. The powerful messages that have surfaced from many overlooked books in the Bible has been transforming thoughts, actions, and hearts!

Today, I would like to share with my learning from Nahum.

Let me start with a bit of history: After studying all three chapters, I was appalled from the evil and violent empire of Assyria. They had become a force to be reckoned with and gained major worldly power and possessions through oppression and direct disobedience to God. Their destruction and deception gained them outward attractiveness because of the status they displayed. Nineveh, the capitol, felt protected by its enormous wall and had allowed their ego to reach great heights. They had overtaken the ten northern tribes and were working on a plan to obtain the two southern ones. Disgusting cruelty and gross acts can barely scratch the surface of the levels they went to gain worldly power.

Nahum warns Nineveh that their time is up. God’s justice is coming and His righteous anger will be carried out in the days ahead. They refused to take refuge in the Lord. They wanted to worship their gods and trust in themselves. In chapter 3, verse 19 Nahum tells them, “Nothing can heal you; your wound is fatal. All who hear the news about you clap their hands at your fall, for who has not felt your endless cruelty?” Their lust of being “top dog” and doing whatever it takes to get there has now caused a fatal blow to their existence. OUCH!

Our sweet Father gives us a choice of how we want to live. Also, He is the only one who knows our inner part (heart). His goal is to remove sin in our lives and bring inner peace. (Deut. 4:24; 5:9). So, when I went to the Lord in prayer to get His perspective on Nahum, this is what He revealed to me:

What choices am I making that may lead me to destruction?
Who have I possible destroyed, injured, or scarred with my words or actions?
How can I abstain from allowing worldly ways to creep into my life?
Is Chapter 2 a prescriptive of a pathway I am traveling?
Am I obsessed with power, little gods, or anything else which will lead me to sin and a hardened heart?

OVERALL TAKEAWAY:

Put my trust only in God. (Nahum 3:8-10)

Deal with sin because it cuts off my fellowship with God.

Failure to follow God leads to painful consequences. Possibly, a fatal blow!

Yes, all this from the little book of Nahum. Powerful-life changing wisdom and advice! Come join us June 14^th as we begin a new three-week study over Habakkuk. I promise you too will have a mighty takeaway and you will always remember Habakkuk. Major wisdom through minor prophets is worth embracing!

June 4, 2021 3

HABAKKUK: 3 week study

Hello everyone!

We are so excited to continue an online Bible study series, Major Wisdom through the Minor Prophets. Each month we are focusing on one minor prophet by walking through a chapter weekly. The monthly study in June will only last three weeks.

Together we will discuss and reflect on our readings via Zoom. In each study, we will dig deep into Scripture and practice embracing the AMPS Bible intake method. Feel free to join us for a month at a time. Habakkuk will begin June 14th at 6:00 p.m. Again, this study will only last three weeks and each meeting will only be one hour in length.

June 14^th–Chapter 1

June 21st–Chapter 2

June 28th–Chapter 3

Please email the Refining Ministry by June 11^th if you would like to participate in this study. We will send you the link and additional materials for the study once we hear from you. Let us know if you have any questions! Also, if you know of anyone who might be interested in attending, please forward this information to them.

In His Name,

Genna Stotts

P. S. – Refining now has a direct email account: refining.journey@gmail.com

May 31, 2021 2

How Can Bible Intake Be Visual?

Hello! How are you this last full week of May? Good news-a three day weekend is on the way for many. The month of May seems to be a busy time with graduations, Mother’s Day, end of summer year, etc. However, it has been nice to enjoy some of these occasions in a somewhat “normal” setting this year.

In the education world, tapping into all modalities of learning is essential. Educators have to be creative in making the text come alive and extending opportunities for those digesting the material to do the same. This is no different for each of us when studying Scripture and ensuring our Bible intake sticks. Making those mental connections and embedded the overall message into our schema is necessary to ignite the transformation of our heart and mind.

Transparency moment: Scripture exposure has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. Yet, most of my life it has gone in one ear and out the other. Oh when I first hear or read a promising message, I am so inspired and feel two inches taller, but once life slaps me around a couple of times (usually less than 24 hours later) I seem to be clueless. Why didn’t the takeaway stick?

God has captured my attention in recent years concerning engaging in His Word and allowing it to transform. (the capture was a three letter word-PIT!) I have always equated the Bible as a life manual and valued the power of its words, yet the struggle to infuse my innermost parts with Scripture was very real.

I have read, heard, and tried all kinds of advice-read more, study more, pray more, add in-depth Bible studies to your routine, buy a Bible dictionary, purchase a set of concordances, download this application, get assess to these Bible translations, mark all these websites as your favorite, follow Bible scholars regularly, listen to online sermons, go to conferences, join this Facebook group, etc. These are all terrific ideas and suggestions, but when I first wanted to make a significant change in my Bible intake-adding a million different things without addressing what would really make Scripture stick for me personally just made my life even more complicated. I didn’t know where to focus-everything was over the top good! I wanted engagement not involvement. I just made the issue a frustrating and exploding PROBLEM.

So I began embracing simplicity. Taking bite-size portions daily and setting myself up for success. I could not process the fire-hose information coming towards me. It took me addressing my attempted failures and laying the issue at the feet of God. The Holy Spirit opened my eyes to see the answer was really simple-get out of the way and let Him lead.

Today, I want to share with you one way I have found to make God’s Word a visual in my life. If you wrestle with making the Bible come to life, I pray you are encouraged to embrace new ideas and are filled with God’s discernment to what will work best for you. Start small and give the Holy Spirit the permission to guide your efforts so the transformational power can ignite and change you inside out.

ONE WAY I MAKE SCRIPTURE VISUAL:

I pause and pray before reading God’s Word.
I read/reread and intensely study one chapter in the Bible weekly.
After praying and meditating over the information, I narrow my focus to a verse/s I feel the Holy Spirit is drawing me to fully digest.
I write out the Scripture.
- The physical act allows me to take ownership.
- It brings my focus to the words within the verse/s.
- I seem to remember the Scripture from writing it.
- The product becomes a snapshot of God speaking directly to me.
Sometimes I am drawn to one word within the copied Scripture.
I display it for a week and read it throughout my day.
I add my own flair to it. (can’t exactly call it art-lol!)

This is what must be done: When he sits down on the throne of his kingdom, the first thing he must do is make himself a copy of this Revelation on a scroll, copied under the supervision of the Levitical priests. That scroll is to remain at his side at all times; he is to study it every day so that he may learn what it means to fear his God, living in reverent obedience before these rules and regulations by following them. He must not become proud and arrogant, changing the commands at whim to suit himself or making up his own versions. If he reads and learns, he will have a long reign as king in Israel, he and his sons. **Deuteronomy 17:18-19 (MSG)**

Here is an example:

Steps I took:

I read Chapter 2 of Nahum.
I wrote out the verse which stood out to me to take ownership. (I choose two colors to distinguish the two thoughts presented.)
Then I selected one word which stood out to me. (I circled restore)
I displayed the card in a prominent spot. I read it over and over throughout the week and let it saturate my thinking.
We had a horrific hailstorm which wiped out our tender garden plants and many of the flowers we had planted. After walking through the yard to access the damage, restoration came to mind. I began to ponder the promise of God’s healing after the “destroyer” laid everything to waste. My mind went straight to a blossom. So, I took the card & drew a flower. It was a symbol of God’s promise, the beauty we find when we take refuge in Him, and the healing He will extend.
The card is a visual reminder of the message the Lord gave me. At the end of the week, I wrote my overall takeaway on the back of the card.

If you are a “visual” learner-start with just writing out Scripture once a week and allow it to saturate your thinking. Please do not make it complicated. You just need a Bible and a willingness to let God’s Word change you. Investigate ways to make the Bible come to life for you. Ask God for His discernment and help. You will be amazed at what He will reveal.

Share your thoughts. I would love to hear what you do routinely. Blessings and prayers to you, my friend.

May 25, 2021 8