Beef

Chili Beef Noodle Skillet

9:00 AM



Chili Beef Noodle Skillet

 1 package (8 ounces) egg noodles
2 pounds ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1/4 cup chopped celery
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 tablespoon chili powder
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1/2 to 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese 

 Cook noodles according to package directions.  Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook the beef, onion, celery and garlic over medium heat until meat is no longer pink and vegetables are tender; drain.  Add the tomatoes, chili powder, salt and pepper.  Cook and stir for 2 minutes or until heated through.  Drain noodles; stir into beef mixture and heat through.  Remove from the heat. Sprinkle with cheese; cover and let stand for 5 minutes or until cheese is melted.

2 Corinthians 5:17

-Walking in Wisdom- A Living Faith (James 2)

6:04 PM



Please read: James 2

As we begin reading today’s scripture James warns us:
“My fellow believers, do not practice your faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ with an attitude of partiality [toward people—show no favoritism, no prejudice, no snobbery]. (James 2:1)
This first verse is where we should stop and consider:
Is this my attitude regarding my family, friends, neighbors, fellow workers... our elderly parents?
How about someone who is not Christian?; or someone who has no education because he is poor; or someone who is an immigrant (different race)?
It may be that apparently we are not looking down at people, but what about the words we say (and the tone we use) to our children, our spouse?

Let’s continue with the following verses:
“ If, however, you are [really] fulfilling the royal law according to the Scripture, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself [that is, if you have an unselfish concern for others and do things for their benefit]” you are doing well. 9 But if you show partiality [prejudice, favoritism], you are committing sin and are convicted by the Law as offenders. 10 For whoever keeps the whole Law but stumbles in one point, he has become guilty of [breaking] all of it.” (2:8-10)

I love how James through these simple words of wisdom, brings conviction to our hearts.
Oh, but James still has something very important to say to us:

“What is the benefit, my fellow believers, if someone claims to have faith but has no [good] works [as evidence]? Can that [kind of] faith save him? [No, a mere claim of faith is not sufficient—genuine faith produces good works.] 15 If a brother or sister is without [adequate] clothing and lacks [enough] food for each day, 16 and one of you says to them, “Go in peace [with my blessing], [keep] warm and feed yourselves,” but he does not give them the necessities for the body, what good does that do? “(2:14-16)

“To fail in the most simple good work towards a brother or sister in need demonstrates that one does not have a living faith, and we can only be saved by a living faith in Jesus.” (David Guzik)

Yes, we must be very receptive to the needs of all of those who are around us. Some people have had fewer opportunities in this life, than most of us. Some people may say that they have what they have, because they have worked hard for it. But does this mean that the rest of the people are lazy?

It is by our testimony –our faith- that many around us are touched and are eager to listen to God’s Word. We must remember:
“So we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His appeal through us; we [as Christ’s representatives] plead with you on behalf of Christ to be reconciled to God.” (2 Corinthians 5:20)

Are we really representing Christ to this fallen and needy world?
“So too, faith, if it does not have works [to back it up], is by itself dead [inoperative and ineffective]. “ (2:17)

 A living faith is simply real faith. If we really believe something, we will follow through and act upon it. If we really put our trust and faith on Jesus, we will care for the naked and destitute as He told us to.

 A living faith cannot be separated from works.
 "But James has quite another thing in view, even to shew that he who professes that he has faith, must prove the reality of his faith by his works. Doubtless James did not mean to teach us here the ground on which our hope of salvation ought to rest; and it is this alone that Paul dwells upon." (Calvin)


Works must accompany a genuine faith, because genuine faith will always show the evidence of becoming a new creation in Jesus (2 Corinthians 5:17). If there is no evidence of a new life, there was no genuine, saving faith.

 As Charles Spurgeon said: "The grace that does not change my life will not save my soul."
Faith is one of the attributes of the fruit of the spirit, and just as we read in Matthew 3:8:
 “So produce fruit that is consistent with repentance [demonstrating new behavior that proves a change of heart, and a conscious decision to turn away from sin]"

May we yield in obedience to His Holy Spirit so that we will produce this living fruit: a living faith.

"Man is not justified by faith alone, that is, by a bare and empty knowledge of God; he is justified by works, that is, his righteousness is known and proved by its fruits." (Calvin)

Blessings,
 Mari


Becky Austin

Trials and Testing (James 1)

12:30 PM



Our Reading: James 1

Stress is inevitable. It’s not a matter of if, but when,  will we encounter problems, difficulties and trials. Being a faithful Christian doesn’t mean that we live an easy, everything goes well for us kind of life. Throughout the Bible we witness stories of God’s people going through all kinds of difficult struggles. In the book of James, we are not given advice about how to avoid the tough trials of life, but rather how to respond to those trials with the right perspective and outlook. 

“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”(v2-4 )

Now it may seem a strange instruction to find joy in trials. I don’t know of anyone who enjoys being in the midst of a hardship or difficulty. I don’t think James means that we are expected to jump up and down with happiness while truly struggling or suffering. But he did say we can “count it joy” which means we attach a positive purpose or benefit to that trial. This is a perspective we may not truly be able to apply until we can view it from the rear view mirror of experience. 
Even Jesus endured trials and His trials surpassed any that we will know. These trials were difficult for Him, but He looked beyond what He had to endure and focused on the joy and benefit He would gain.  “looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:2)

Trials serve a purpose for they are used by God to impact us spiritually. James tells us that trials test our faith and teach us to stand. Becoming familiar with the Word of God gives us knowledge but until that knowledge is used and applied in the forges of life, we are not refined into the mature Christian that God wants us to be. 

O.S. Hawkins, in his book called “The James Code” tells us there are two kinds of trials. “When we are out of His will for our lives, trials of correction often come our way. On the other hand, trials of perfection come to us when we are in the will of God.”  
So, when a trial comes, ask if there is something in your life that God needs you to deal with and repent of. Remember that he will discipline you as your loving Father because you are His child. But, also realize that you may be walking in God’s will for your life and God may be using that trial to mature and refine you. Always, the goal is to make you more and more into the image of Christ. From our greatest hurts and difficulties may come our greatest ministries. What God teaches you through your trial today may be used to help someone else going through a similar trial in the future. 
“Every humiliation, everything that tries and vexes us, is God’s way of cutting a deeper channel in us through which the life of Christ can flow.”- Roy Hession

Trials should prompt us to seek God for direction. “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind.” (v5-6) Not knowing what the future holds can create fear, anxiety, depression, etc but we have access to the One who is sovereign over all circumstances and the One who wants to help us. He asks us to trust that He will see us through. And when we endure, we will reap eternal reward. “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.” (v12-13)


Acts 14

The Secret to an Effectual Ministry- Revealed {Acts 14}

10:00 AM

Today's Passage: Acts 14


I ended last week's post on leaving a legacy by sharing my desire to one day hear the Lord say, “Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of your Master” (Matt25:21) and since, I’ve been reading each chapter with interests, trying to discover the qualities needed to have an effectual ministry in this day and age. After all, I know times have changed, but our Lord hasn’t, and neither has His call to all of us found in Matthew 28:18-20!

Paul was hands-down the greatest missionary in all of the New Testament church and I was determined to see if I could learn his secret, and O goodness girls, I believe I’ve found it!! It’s hidden within the chapter, but before the big reveal, I want to share a bit of how I found it!!

You see, I’m not always good at being, “intentional about my good intentions”. What I mean by that is, I may tell you I have this tremendous desire to hear the Lord say, “Well done…”, but when obstacles and opposition arise, I’ll be the first to rethink my goals, but not Paul! After he and Barnabas were run out of Antioch of Pisidia,they simply, “shook the dust from their feet as a sign of rejection and went to the town of Iconium.” - 13:51

Now I know, one could argue that they had seen and experienced great success in that city and that, “the Lord’s message spread throughout that region!” which only spurred them on. BUT, once more here in chapter 14, Paul and Barnabas see that with success comes great opposition and once more, “they fled to the region of Lycaonia—to the towns of Lystra and Derbe and the surrounding area.”- Acts 14:6

There seems to be a pattern forming: Arrive -> Preach -> Witness Conversions -> Oppositions arises -> Move on to the next town…

That is until 14:19-20,“Then some Jews arrived from Antioch and Iconium and won the crowds to their side. They stoned Paul and dragged him out of town, thinking he was dead. But as the believers gathered around him, he got up and went back into the town. The next day he left with Barnabas for Derbe.”

Did you catch it? I reached this point in the chapter and had to stop reading, and admit to myself and to the Lord that, I think had this been me at this point, The Lord and I would have had to have a talk, for I’m not certain I could have taken much more of the fierce persecution Paul and Barnabas were experiencing! And this was when the Lord showed me something I’ve never noticed before!

- Paul Got Up!

Paul was
  • Stoned
  • Dragged out of town
  • Believed to be dead
  • BUT he got up!
  • AND walked back into the same town!
  • AND then started on a 60 mile journey the next morning!!

How can a person stoned and believed dead, get up and go on a sixty mile journey the next day!?

That’s when Paul’s own words came flooding into my mind…

“I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.” Phil 4:13

“Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass.” 1 Thessalonians 5:24

“For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good pleasure.” Phil 2:13

I can see now Paul knew exactly what he was talking about. No man can get up and keep going after being stoned and left for dead without God’s help, but Jesus has promised us that, “with God ALL things are possible”. Matthew 19:26 (Emphasis mine)

I also understand now why Paul often referred to himself as the Lord’s “doulos” or bond-servant. A “doulos” is often defined as a slave, but it’s much more than that, in that the person volunteers to serve wholeheartedly, claiming to have no rights of their own. I looked up the definition once more in the Stong’s Greek Dictionary and here’s some of what I found: A Doulos is
  • one who worships God and submits to him
  • the true worshippers of Christ, whose agency God employs in executing His purposes
  • So devoted to another to the disregard of one's own interests,
  • strenuously laboring for another's salvation,

I can clearly see Paul fitting this description, what I wonder most is, do I? How about you?

Blessings!
sue

Acts 13

Be a Light {Acts 13}

10:00 AM

Scripture for today, February 25, 2020

Chapter 13 is the beginning of Paul's ministry journeys.  As I sat down to begin writing for this post, God reminded me of something that I'll share in a moment.  But first, I'll share what I learned from this chapter.  We know so much about Paul, but I'd like to take a look at Mark, also called John Mark and Barnabas.


Image result for mark 14:51-52
Some people would see Mark as a weak link in this missionary journey.  We can see some similarities of Mark's character from what he says about himself in the gospel of Mark.  Mark is probably the nameless young man who fled in panic when Jesus was arrested (Mark 14:51-52).  And here in Acts 13, Mark, for unknown reasons leaves during this first missionary journey.  We learn that maturity comes from a combination of time and mistakes.  Mistakes are not usually as important as what we learn from them.  Effective living is not measured as much by what we accomplish as by what we overcome in order to accomplish it.  Encouragement can change a person's life.




Image result for barnabas and paul, acts 13
I learned that Barnabas was one of the first to sell his possessions to help the Christians in Jerusalem.  As his name indicates, Barnabas was an encourager and was one of the most quietly influential people in the early days of Christianity.  Encouragement is one of the most effective ways to help.  Barnabas' life shows us that sooner or later, true obedience to God will involve risk. 



  

As I sat down to write this post, God reminded me of one situation I was in a couple of years ago.  I was going to numerous graduation parties and as usual, I visited with many people.  This particular party we had to drive over a half an hour to attend and it was raining, like cats and dogs.  So most people were crammed into the garage, trying to avoid getting soaked.  One lady sought me out.  I saw her speaking to several other guest throughout the evening, and eventually, she made her way to me.  We simply talked about life.  This particular lady, has a background in theology, and in my opinion seems to "have it all together".  I've learned so much from her.  But this evening, the story/stories I shared ministered to her!  And she thanked me!  She thanked me that I could help her see her own situation through a different lens.  

This chapter began for me as a struggle, because I simply did not see what God wanted me to see.  So, I prayed for understanding.  God reminded me of this particular moment where I was an encourager to someone I would consider a "Paul".  She has far more knowledge and experience in theology than I'll ever have, yet, I provided the much needed encouragement she needed to move forward.  

I think I can be a bit like Mark, and flee when things get difficult.  I've become stronger and wiser through all of these moments of weakness.  And so many people say I'm strong!  And I could write a few more stories about encouragement, because God led me down memory lane, but what I learned is that God is using me in places I hadn't recognized.  I needed to get to a point that I trusted that God was using me, in the quite places that go unnoticed.  But there are people I don't even remember who God has placed in my path who I've given that thread of encouragement to keep going.  I've taken off their glasses, and allowed them to see through mine.  It looks differently and it gives others a new light.

Image result for acts 13:47




Acts

Peter Knocked, Rhoda was Shocked, and the Saints Mocked {Acts 12}

4:09 PM


Monday Feb. 24, “Walking In Wisdom”


The Bible is filled with godly women whose stories both teach and inspire. And one of these is Rhoda. Although only mentioned briefly in Acts, the story of this servant girl, whose name means Rose, is one of my favorites. Her overwhelming delight is infectious, and the excitement she felt, causing her to leave Peter standing at the door, brings a chuckle to my lips and a gladness to my heart. But more than just a cute tale, Rhoda is an example of persistence, and expectant faith in the Lord. 

The chapter begins in Jerusalem with king Herod who, trying to win favor with the Jews, beheads James, the brother of John, and imprisons Peter. But as Herod kept Peter jailed, "prayer for him was being made fervently by the church to God." (v. 5)  A group of believers had gathered at the house of Mary, the mother of John Mark, to plead to God on Peter's behalf. While they were earnestly praying, there came a knock on the door at the gate. As Rhoda went to answer, to her delight, she heard the familiar voice of Peter. And in her excitement, instead of opening the gate and letting Peter in, she ran to tell the others. But Rhoda was not believed. She was told she was crazy; that it must have been an angel she heard. Yet she didn't back down, and through her insistence and the continued knocking of Peter, Mary and the others soon learned how God had answered their prayers, how the Lord led Peter from prison, and how Rhoda was right all along!

You know what I admire about Rhoda? First, her determination. Even though her story was doubted, she didn’t give up. Rhoda knew Peter truly was at the door, and nothing was going to keep her from her telling her truth. As Christians we may have times like Rhoda, when in sharing our truth our stories are doubted. Some may call us crazy. Others may try to convince us that our faith in the Lord is misguided. But no matter what anyone says, we will not be dissuaded. For as Jesus tells us, “You will know the truth and the truth will set you free. I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” (John 8:32,14:6)

I also admire her eagerness. Rhoda couldn’t wait to share the good news about Peter's deliverance. I want to be just as eager and excited to share the Good Newsof the saving grace through faith in Christ. As our Redeemer, Teacher, and Lord, Jesus commands us, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” (Matt. 28:19-20) Rhoda knew the great joy her news would bring, just as we know the great joy awaiting those who receive Jesus as their Savior. 

Finally I admire Rhoda’s expectant faith. She obviously knew Peter, and I have no doubt Rhoda was among those praying for his release. Yet unlike the others who had to be convinced that God had answered their prayers, all it took was the sound of Peter’s voice for Rhoda to believe. She had complete faith in Jesus who said, “If two of you agree on earth about anything that they may ask, it shall be done for them by My Father who is in Heaven.”(Matt. 18:19) Like Rhoda, when we pray, we must do so with expectant faith in God. Faith, “That if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us."  (1 John 5:14)

I want to be like Rhoda. I want to be jubilant, excited, and full of faith in God. I want to pray expectantly and be overwhelmed with joy and thankfulness when those prayers are answered. Peter’s deliverance shows how there is the great power in prayer. And so the next time I find myself bound in chains, and stuck behind closed gates, I will pray. For through my own power I can do nothing, but through the power of God, “All things are possible.” (Matt. 19:26)


Becky Austin

Reading God’s Word with Intention

9:34 AM




We are studying about the early church and it is truly heartwarming to think about the beginnings of a ministry that spread to every corner of the world.  God blessed the gathering of His people together and worked through the unity and growth of everyday people like you and I. Every single person was important. Every single person brought unique insight and perspective to share. Every person was given unique talents, gifts, resources and experiences meant to encourage, teach and uplift the others. It didn't matter how young, how old, how rich, how poor, how popular, how common, how intelligent, what race, what background, what upbringing, etc. God chose to work through all. All that mattered was a heart that was seeking God. 

Think about those intimate groups of people who met in each other’s homes and shared their love and passion for Christ together. Together they studied the Scriptures and learned as the Holy Spirit taught them and molded them day by day. I have been blessed to be part of an intimate home group in my neighborhood.  During the week, we study God’s Word with intention (I’ll explain that next). We then share if so led what God showed us from our intentional reading of a particular focus chapter. It never ceases to amaze me how many different “ mini sermons” come out of the same focus chapter each week. But, if I really think about it...it makes perfect sense. Why? Because God loves to work in that way! Something He shows me may be something you have never thought about or experienced before. Something he shows you may touch a chord in my heart and be just the thing that God wanted to use to speak to me. God loves on us and teaches us, and blesses us through other people. 

Why am I writing about this? It’s to encourage all of our readers who join us each day via the ministry of Women in the Word to recognize that you have something to contribute to our group of ladies who gather to share God’s Word. We welcome your comments and questions because your unique experiences and thoughts may bless us or one of our readers. 

If studying God’s Word is new to you or just seems a bit overwhelming...relax! 
God wants to meet with you in the intimacy of His Word and His Holy Spirit can guide you, whether a new believer or seasoned disciple. There is always something new to be revealed. Reading God’s Word with intention is a simple way to dive in and dialogue with God. As you read a passage, ask yourself these questions?
  1. What jumped out at me?
  2. Why did it jump out at me?
  3. How is it going to impact or change my life?
Of course, pray and talk with God about it and ask Him to show you what He wants you to learn.
It might be helpful to keep a journal of your ponderings. God wants to reveal Himself to you and He wants you to share with others. We at Women In The Word want to encourage you in that endeavor!  You can share on our fb page, blog or our private fb group (links are on the R side of our blog page).
Have a blessed weekend in His Word!


Cake

Chocolate Swiss Cake Roll

7:40 AM



Chocolate Swiss Cake Roll

Cake
4 large eggs, separated
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
1 Tablespoon strong brewed coffee *or* 1 teaspoon espresso powder
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup natural unsweetened cocoa powder, plus 2 Tablespoons (for rolling)
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Vanilla Whipped Cream
1 cup cold heavy cream or heavy whipping cream
3 Tablespoons granulated sugar or confectioners’ sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Chocolate Topping
1/2 cup heavy cream or heavy whipping cream
one 4 ounce bar semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
optional for glossy shine: 1 teaspoon light corn syrup

Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a 12x7 baking sheet pan with nonstick spray or grease with butter, so the parchment paper sticks. Then line it with parchment paper so the cake seamlessly releases. Spray or grease the parchment paper too. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with whisk attachment, beat the egg whites and granulated sugar together in a medium bowl on high speed for 5 minutes or until stiff peaks form. Set aside. In another bowl, beat the egg yolks, brown sugar, and vanilla extract together until pale and creamy, about 2 minutes. Sift the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt together into a large bowl bowl. Pour the melted butter, coffee, and egg yolk mixture over the dry ingredients. Beat everything together on medium speed until completely combined. Using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold in the egg whites until completely combined. Avoid over-mixing. Batter will be very light. Spread batter evenly into prepared pan. It will be a very thin layer. Shimmy the pan on the counter to smooth out the top. Bake for 10 minutes or until the top of the cake gently springs back when touched with your finger. As the cake bakes, place a piece of parchment paper (larger than the cake) or a thin kitchen towel flat on the counter. Sprinkle with a light coating of cocoa powder. Once the cake comes out of the oven, immediately invert it onto the parchment/towel. Peel off the parchment paper that was on the bottom of the cake as it baked. Starting with the narrow end, slowly and gently roll the cake up with the parchment/towel. The cake will be warm. Allow the cake to cool completely rolled up in the parchment/towel. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, whip the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract on medium-high speed until medium to stiff peaks form, about 2-3 minutes. Slowly and gently unroll the cake. Spread whipped cream evenly on top, leaving about a 1/2 inch border around the cake. Gently roll the cake back up, without the parchment/towel this time. Place on a wire rack set on a baking sheet. Place chopped chocolate and corn syrup, if using, in a medium bowl. Heat the cream in a small saucepan until it begins to gently simmer. Pour over chocolate, then let it sit for 2-3 minutes to gently soften the chocolate. Slowly stir until completely combined and chocolate has melted. Pour ganache all over cake roll. Refrigerate for at least 30-60 minutes before slicing and serving. Cover leftover cake and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.