In Bondage
The Israelites—God’s chosen people—were in bondage a long time.
“Now the length of time the Israelite people lived in Egypt was 430
years” (Exodus 12:40 NIV).
The Israelites were slaves of Pharaoh, and he treated them harshly.
He had them beaten and forced them to make bricks in the hot sun.
They were tired, thirsty, oppressed and living without hope.
Four hundred thirty years is a loooong time to be in bondage.
None of us have been in bondage 430 years.
But to be in bondage for even one day is too long.
Anything that keeps us from becoming all God wants us to be is
considered bondage.
Some of the things that keep us in bondage are . . .
Gossip.
Negativity.
Criticism.
Alcohol.
Low self-esteem.
Fear.
Drugs.
Procrastination.
Stubbornness.
Anger.
The list can go on and on.
Why not ask God to reveal anything in your life that could have you in
bondage?
He set the Israelites free . . . and He is willing to set you free as well!
Thoughts?
Please pray for me this weekend as I speak in Anderson, MO.
His Beautiful Creation
Throughout Scripture we’re often reminded of how God displays
Himself through nature. We’re told that the trees of the fields will
someday clap their hands in praise to Him. We read that every living
thing will rejoice in our heavenly Father.
One of the most exciting places I’ve seen God revealed in glorious
nature is in Alaska. It can be breathtaking!
I’ve been there four times and I’ll be speaking there again this fall.
But I want to go back in 2019.
And I want to take YOU with me.
Yes.
You read that correctly.
I want us to go to Alaska together.
So Susie Shellenberger Ministries has put together a “friends and
family” cruise to Alaska for June 1-8, 2019.
I know the benefit of getting away and letting God refresh me.
I need this.
You may need it as well.
So I’ll be speaking in our own private services on this exciting cruise.
And Kathy Slamp—another Christian speaker—will also be
ministering in our services.
Besides that, we’ll also have some amazing praise and worship, a lot
of fun, and an incredible time of ministry together.
But you’ll also get to enjoy the shows that the ship provides, because
we’ll have our own sessions at a different time than the ship’s
entertainment.
And the offshore excursions when we dock at a variety of ports are
amazing. You can choose from a variety of options.
If you’d like to email me for more information, I’ll send you the full
brochure with all the details. Will you please pray about joining me?
This will be an amazing time of ministry, an exhilarating adventure,
and the spiritual restoration we all need.
Shoot me an email at: susieshell@comcast.net
This weekend I’m speaking in West Columbia, SC, and would
appreciate your prayers.
More Words!
We speak anywhere from 120 to 150 words per minute.
I tend to speak fast.
I’m afraid if I slow down, I’ll get bored and check out. Ha!
I’m more engaged when listening to a speaker who pushes the pace.
It motivates me to pay closer attention.
The “Love Chapter” (1 Corinthians 13) from the English Standard
Version of the Bible is a little more than 280 words. I timed myself
and can read it out loud in 57 seconds. So what does this mean?
Absolutely nothing. Ha! I just find it interesting.
We’re consumed with words—verbally and written. Oftentimes, we
can almost “read words” from people’s eyes and mannerisms even
though they haven’t spoken audibly.
Because words can be so powerful, let’s determine to examine how
we choose to use them. Think about it: You can actually help
someone have a better day simply by the words you offer them.
On the other hand, you can ruin someone’s day by using demeaning
words. So it’s our choice, isn’t it? Will we choose to build up or tear
down?
“Gentle words cause life and health”
(Proberbs 15:4 The Living Bible).
From reading the Bible, we can tell that Jesus was extremely careful
with His words. He didn’t use them flippantly.
Before using your words, consider these three things:
1. Is what you’re about to say true?
2. Will what you say cast a shadow on someone or create
doubt in the listener’s mind?
3. Is what you’re saying necessary?
I really admire a friend of mine who just doesn’t say negative things
about people. It’s always a joy to be around her.
In a culture where we’re often around people who talk A LOT,
it’s refreshing to be with this friend who uses her words carefully and
uses them to affirm and encourage.
Let’s memorize this Scripture together:
“Evil words destroy; godly skill rebuilds”
(Proverbs 11:9 The Living Bible).
Thoughts?
I’m speaking in Aurora, CO this weekend.
Will you pray that God will use my words to glorify Him?