Monday, April 14, 2008

Reading The Shulammite Woman

Hi Girls! As I counted my blessings this weekend, I counted this group as a big one. I so appreciate how loving and supportive you each are. I dealt with some people last week that were not that way - it was draining! But then I would come here and read your comments - which are getting increasingly insightful! - and see you praying for and loving on one another and I'd praise God.

So everybody enjoyed reading Esther's story. It does read like a fascinating novel, doesn't it? No one seemed to mind that it was nine chapters long. That's good because our next reading is pretty long as well.

We are reading about the unnamed Shulammite Woman in the Song of Songs chapters 1-8 which are linked here. This reading will be quite different from any we've done so far. It will read less like a novel and more like a script for a Shakespearean play ... only it was mostly likely written by King Solomon. Its quite interesting reading!

Post your 'I did it" here when you are done reading.
As well as any prayer requests or updates you have.


My prayer request is for a retreat I'll be speaking at this weekend. I'll be out of town Friday through Sunday and will be teaching four sessions. Please pray for my preparation time this week, for the women attending, for safe travel, and for my family who will be juggling a busy schedule here at home in my absence. Thanks, friends!

110 comments:

  1. Wow....I MUST read this to my husband....to be so passionate about one another physically...yeahhhhhhh!!

    Can't wait to hear the discussion on this study.

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  2. I read it... and I'll agree...

    WOW!

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  3. I read it!! I actually read it like a play with my husband a long time ago. We even acted it out! Gazing into each others eyes and really trying to feel like King Solomon and his "woman"...hehe! :) So this time I re read it by myself...ya know for "Study" issues, yah right! Just being cute :)

    Can't wait for the study on this book..as far as prayer requests..I have come to the conclusion that I am going to give God all the glory and praise even when I have prayer requests. I praise God I asked all of you to pray for my husband Mike and praise God his bleeding and tests are negative..Praise the Lord!! Yeah, so the enemy is continually attacking me because I am becoming a woman who is seeking after the Father constantly..big deal..isn't that good! That just means the Lord has something wonderful in store for me and it's just gonna get better :)

    Please continue to go onto my blog as I will be posting another great word tonight and now I am going to leave crafts like I once started too about 2 weeks ago!

    I love you all and I just wish I could see everyones face who has been praying for my family. God is so good and all He wants is for us to lean on Him for EVERY SINGLE THING!!

    Love Donna

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  5. I read it & yes, a "WOW!" from me too!

    Pat in NYC

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  6. Yes and Amen.
    I read it.
    Can't wait for the
    discussion.
    I feel like this describes my
    husband and I in so many ways.
    And that after 42 years.

    Janet
    Latrobe, PA

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  7. Just wanted to say Thanks to everyone who have been praying for me this past weekend. I truly have had a peace like I have never felt before. I don't think I even thought about it at all this weekend. Thanks for blanketing me with your prayers! They were felt. I went in this morning for my mamogram and it was negative! Praise the Lord!

    I can't wait to read this ... Sounds very interesting from ya'lls comments so far! I'll post back when I have it read! Thanks again Ladies! I have been blessed by each of you!

    ~ Christi in TX

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  8. I have completed the read.

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  9. Christi that is wonderful news, Praise the Lord!!!!!
    Agape yesssss me too, I see my wonderful husband and I in this too, I think tonite I will suggest we sit and read this together, It will be great! So beautiful!

    Ladiesssss I have wonderful News to shareeeee :)
    My Husband is being Ordained on Sunday the 11th of May. Please add him into your prayers. He is a great man, I am so proud to walk beside him in ministry. We are just 2 peas in a pod! :)

    Have a Blessed Day!
    Love this Story, Can not wait for the discussion
    Sharon/Florida

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  10. Ooooops I read it! :)

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  11. I read it!

    I love seeing everyone's responses, in how these verses describe their marriages. I'm so excited for God to finally bring that man into my life, and it's encourageing to see blossoming marriages all around.

    Ashley/Florida

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  12. I read it too but must confess that I wasn't certain if they were married or if she was his concubine? Looking forward to your thoughts.

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  13. Haven't read it yet, however I have done a bible study in our "Married for Life group" So it will be good to read again.

    Rachel O. I thank you for touching our lives with this study, and helping us to learn more about God. Father God I ask that you lead, guide, and direct Rachel in the ways that she should go this weekend. Lord give her the words to edify and encourage those she is speaking to so they will draw close to you.
    Protect her and keep her safe as well as her family. Bring her home safely in Jesus Name - Amen.

    I'll post again when I have read it.

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  14. I meant I did a study on the Songs of Solomon in the Married group.
    you guess you all could figure that out but thought I'd correct.

    :) Be Blessed
    Lynn - OR

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  15. Wow! I just finished.

    Tara- NM

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  16. ... read it...I'm still tagging along - just the quiet gal in the back of the Bible study :)

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  17. I've read it. Look forward to the discussion and Rachel's comments.
    My prayers are with you Rachel as you minister this week-end. May God surround you with peace and wisdom and give you favor in your travels, your ministry, and take care of your family while you are away. What a mighty God we serve.

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  18. I read it! Loved it too!!!!
    Nicole, Wabash, IN

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  19. I forgot to say, Praise the Lord for those whose prayers have been answered.
    AliceE.

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  20. I read it, can't wait for the discussion on this one...WOW!
    Rachel I pray for God to lead you all the way through this week, with wisdom, truth from Him, discernment, clarity of mind and heart and I pray for Him to bless the socks off of those women through you...as well as traveling mercies.
    My prayer request is for my husband he is having a stress test on Wednesday the 16th, 9a.m. blood work and chest x-ray, on Thursday 17th, he has a cat scan of his heart at 1p.m. As some of you may know my husband is disabled from a stroke for 11 years, he had his left leg amputated last November, he doesn't do a normal stress test with his they inject medication through his picc-line to make his heart react as it would with a normal stress test, (he hates this test) pray for clear results and lots of peace for my husband, wisdom for the Dr. as well.
    God Bless, Josie

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  21. I read it. WOW!!

    Dana

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  22. I read it, will no doubt read it again before the discussion. Rachael, I'm prayinfg for you this weekend and for the people you will minister to. Go with God.

    Christi, I'm so happy for you and your test results! God is faithful to answer prayers and bring peace. Donna, I continue to pray for you and your husband. Sharon, you and your husband will be in my prayers too. I wish you much joy on his special day and on the launching of this next chapter in your lives. I know God will enrich it for you both! Josie, I pray for your husband too.

    For everyone who is blessed with a marriage where they can see their husband and themselves in this lesson, I thank God and I say to you all "Good for you!"

    Looking forward to more tomorrow!

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  23. I read it and WOW! See girls...who needs romance novels when you have the Bible to read!!!!!!!

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  24. I read it.

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  25. I read it, and maybe I am not in the right frame of mind, but I did not enjoy it at all. I am really looking forward to all of your insights on this very different book
    Beth ann/Ohio

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  26. I read it. What century was this written??? I wonder should this Bible be censored?

    Just kidding!! Pretty hot talk.

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  27. Oh I forgot a prayer request. I am meeting a young girl tomorrow (17) to discuss adopting her infant. She is only a couple months pregnant, and despite pressure to abort the baby would rather give it up for adoption. Pray for all those involved. Thank you

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  28. I read it.
    Can't wait to get your discussion and view on this, Rachel.

    I hope you will address the "purpose" or biblical relevance of why God chose this to be part of His Word.

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  29. Bethann, I will be praying for your meeting.
    AliceE.

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  30. I read it. I wonder when he married this women and when she got lost in the mix of his other wives and concubines? She was so in love with him and sounds like he with her. I feel sad for her.

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  31. I read it. I too can't wait to hear what all think about this one. I will really have to chew on this one.
    To tamtam & riverview, thank you so much for the words of encouragement and all of those who have prayed/praying for me. Panic attacks are terrifying. Bethann, I pray that God wants to place this child in your arms. And Christi, praise the Lord on your news. Josie, I will lift you and your husband up in prayer that all tests be clear. My sister had to have a leg amputated about 13 yrs ago and shes had that test. She didn't like it either. Donna, I will also lift you and your husband up in prayer.
    God Bless each of you, I feel like I've made so many new friends.
    Tommie, Kentucky

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  32. Rachel: Thank you...I read it! It was so refreshing and beautiful to read this. I honestly don't go to Song of Solomon in my personal study and devotion time. I am glad you did this as it made me want to read it more. Looking forward to your insights! :)

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  33. I have not read this yet, hopefully tomorrow. For now I would like to make a prayer request. My first grandbaby is due on 9/11, today was their first untrasound, and the tech, mentioned a there might be a problem. Please pray for us, thank you

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  34. This reading was very interesting, it was calming to the soul and kept me very intuned with each and every note as the story continued.
    I took it from a different view point- i envisioned myself being spoken to by Jesus in a loving tone of voice especially where he said:
    the "left hand is under my head" i saw him propping me when i am down and then he said:
    " his right hand embrace me" i saw it as being hugged by my lord.

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  35. Read it and am looking forward to tomorrow's posts.

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  36. I read it...looking forward to the comments.

    JT-Southern IL

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  37. Hello all,
    Can't wait for all the discussion. I'll be praying for all the prayer requests.

    Christi, I'm glad everything turned out all right.
    Donna, I'm glad things are OK with your husband.
    Sharon, Congrats on your husband's ordination.
    Josie, Hope your husband's tests go well.
    Bethann, Hope all goes well with your meeting.
    Lorrie, I'll be praying for your grandbaby.
    Rachel, you are in my prayers.

    Please visit my blog, Plant Lady's Ponderings and post to win an apple gourd birdhouse I'm giving away in a drawing. All you need to do is post your name and I will include it in the drawing to be announced on Sunday, May 18, 2008 on my blog. The winner will be posted and will be given contact information to e-mail and arrange shipping. I have included some of my "gourd art" in a slideshow on the blog.

    Plant Lady

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  38. Hello, Ladies...I read it Rachel and am very much looking forward to the discussion tomorrow.

    I'm praying for you, Rachel, that God will give you the time you need for preparation, for traveling mercies and for peace and tranquility for your family while you are away.

    Another prayer request...my toe amputation and first ray resection surgery was postponed until this Thurs. (4/17) for time to try to rebuild damaged tissue necessary for closing the surgical site. This has become necessary because of months of fighting a staph infection in the bone following the original surgery in August, 2006! Please pray that every microscopic piece of infected bone will be found and removed, and that the surgical site will finally close! Please pray that God will give me peace about this...I don't know what my mobility will be after this and I (in my human weakness) still have a fear of the unknown! God gave me this verse today: Ps. 56:1 - When I am afraid, I will trust in you!

    Thanks so much...I love this study and all of you precious ladies. And I am remembering the other requests for prayer...God Bless.

    Cari

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  39. i read it and agree with most of you on how passionate 2 people could be with each other and also wonder like you sweetpea, why God chose this to be in the bible.

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  40. MIMI, FL
    I read it!

    I absolutely loved this! I am a hopeless romantic, and this story just tugged at my heart strings. I've been trying to make things happen in the love department and the main thing that I got from this passage was to "not stir up nor awaken love until it pleases". I knew God had to be trying to get this point across to me. I'm trying to be patient and wait on God...I know I should know by now that when I make things happen they always fall apart, but the sooner I can learn that what God puts together will last forever, the sooner I can stop causing myself so much heartache.

    My prayer request: Ladies I've been without a car now for a few years and I've been praying for one for quite some time now. But it seems as if I won't realize my dream of owning a car because I can never save any money because I have bills coming from left and right. I'm trying to dig myself out of the debt that I got myself into while in college. I'm just asking that you ladies help me pray for my financial situation to improve greatly and that I become a better manager of the money that God entrusts me with. Thank you so much! :-)

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  41. YAAAAAAY Christi! I am so happy that everything turned out fine. God is TOO good! :-)

    MIMI, FL

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  42. Good morning ladies,

    I have read the Shulammite Woman and will probably read it a time or two again. I was taken aback by the sensuality of this reading, and I too, wonder about its place in the Bible. I have previously read the Bible in its entirety, however I must have just skimmed over this as I do not recall such vivid sexual innuendos.

    Rachel, my prayers are with you for preparation of, and successful delivery of your teachings this coming weekend, as well as your safe journey there and home again. Bless all of the ladies who will have the privilege of attending and the opportunity to hear you speak.

    Prayers of gratitude go out for both Mike & Christi. Our Lord is so gracious and good. Thank you Jesus.

    Sharon ~ Congratulations on your husband’s ordination. May the Lord bless you both with joyous and fruitful ministries.

    Josie ~ I have lifted both you and your husband up in prayer for this trying week of unpleasant medical testing that lies ahead for you. May HIS strength and blessings of good news envelope you and bring you peacefulness during this stressful time.

    Bethann ~ Good luck on your meeting today. I am praying that it will be God’s Will to show you favor regarding placement of this child, and that you will find the fulfillment that you are seeking.

    Tommie ~ You are more than welcome! My son also suffers from panic attacks, so I know how truly terrifying they can
    be. My prayers will continue to be with you.

    Lorri~ I lift up your unborn grandchild to our Lord and pray that HIS angels embrace and guide this precious baby into the world safely and in perfect health.

    Cari ~ I pray that the most miniscule trace of infection be cast from your body and that the Lord’s glorious hand will touch you and give you complete healing and restoration of your mobility. I also ask that HE cleanse your mind of any unrest and anxieties that you may have.

    Mimi ~ May the Lord be generous in blessing you financially so that you can get out of debt and obtain your much needed
    car, and also provide you with the wisdom to handle your money wisely in the future. I too am praying that he give you
    guidance & direction regarding matters of the heart.

    Philippians 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

    God's blessings to all,
    Karyl

    <*////><

    Bonners Ferry, ID USA

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  43. The first time I read this it was before I got married as part of a premarriage study....I really blushed! If one would just read it as a novel..... Reminds me certainly of the passion of Romeo and Juliet.

    Thanks for sharing prayer requests...and praises.....It is good to know that we can go to the Lord in each others behalf...

    Psalms 14-15, "The Lord says, "I will rescue those who love me. I will protect those who trust in my name. When they call on me, I will answer; I will be with them in trouble."

    May the Lord be with all of you as you trust in His name...

    JoAnn/LA

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  44. Good to hear so many positive praise reports! I’ll continue to pray, including for the new requests. (I too am awaiting test results, trusting the Lord to see me through all.)
    Rachel, go in the peace of the Lord, spreading His good news to one and all. God will take care of your loved ones, as we can see in this reading… I’m looking forward to the comments and praying about those that touched my heart and mind. Ginny in South Africa

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  45. Psalms 91:14-15

    Jo Ann/LA

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  46. good morning ladies i havent got to read songs os songs yet but i have some good news to report my husband got to work this morning and had to talk to his boss and he gave him a 1.25 raise. Praise the Lord. Also my husband wanted to go to Sunday School on Sunday he was early and ready to go and he wants to go to church on Sat. night with me also. He has been reading the Bible aobuut every night. Thanks for all you that have been praying. I will keep praying for each one of you. Our GOd is an awsome God. Praise the Lord.Cassandra from Virginia

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  47. good morning ladies i havent got to read songs os songs yet but i have some good news to report my husband got to work this morning and had to talk to his boss and he gave him a 1.25 raise. Praise the Lord. Also my husband wanted to go to Sunday School on Sunday he was early and ready to go and he wants to go to church on Sat. night with me also. He has been reading the Bible aobuut every night. Thanks for all you that have been praying. I will keep praying for each one of you. Our GOd is an awsome God. Praise the Lord.Cassandra from Virginia

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  49. Good...I kind of felt like an odd ball wondering the purpose of God placing this in His Word. I feel better knowing there are others with the same question. My NIV calls this the Song of Songs...I'll have to check to see if other versions call it Song of Songs or Song of Solomon.

    Mimi - I don't want to sound like a preacher here but I would strongly encourage you to tithe if you are not already...seek the Lord and search His Word. I'm telling ya, when we trust Him enough to give back to Him the 10% that is already HIS, financial doors swing open and He does provide where you previous lacked. It sounds odd that we'd give up 10% of our income and yet come ahead on our bills. It's a blessing He provides for us trusting Him. Hope my advice wasn't too personal but this is how I've always believed and acted on it.
    In Him,
    scchhweeeeeet pppppeeeeaaaa

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  50. To Ginny in South Africa,

    I am thinking of you as you await your test results and praying for God's blessings with a good outcome.

    Cassandra ~ Congratulations on the wonderful news. Our Lord is so gracious!!!!!

    Your Sister in Christ,
    Karyl

    <*////><

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  51. Right on Sweetpea!!!!

    And now I have to stop looking at new posts and go to bed!

    Good night & God bless,
    Karyl

    <*////><

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  52. I read it!

    Rica ~ WP, Florida

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  53. I read it, it’s very powerful. I know according to 2 Timothy 3:16 all scripture is God breathed, and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training, but I am just not sure what this scripture is trying to say to me. I read it several times, beautiful, but just didn’t get it. Can’t wait for the discussion on it. Praying for you this weekend, Rachel.

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  54. I think this is beautiful ....read it!!!!

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  55. I read it.

    I'm praying for all of you ladies.

    Deb - Ohio

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  56. I read it! I trust that God put exactly what He wanted in the bible. That I don't question. I think it bothers people more out of how the devil has destroyed and dirtied something God designed as a true love to share with our loved one. God made that, and the devil has done the damage to it. So keep that in mind as you read this. God is perfect!

    Traci, WA state

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  57. I read it!

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  58. I read it and I'm looking forward to your teaching, Rachel.
    I pray that all goes well for you this week. God bless you and all the ladies at the retreat.
    I thank God and praise Him for all He is doing in my life and the lives of everyone in this study.

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  59. Sweetpea,
    Thank you :-), you just gave me the boost I needed. I was short again on money this week and I was thinking of just compensating by not paying my tithes this week and pushing it over to next week. But I will be writing my tithes check tomorrow night at bible study...God always meets me right where I need him. I understand how important it is. I have slipped up a couple of times, but I am trying to stay consistent with God, so that he can stay consistent with me.

    MIMI, FL

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  60. I read it. I'm the one sitting next to Sara in the back of the bible study group :).

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  61. I read it and all your posts. As I read the praises and prayer requests, I prayed for you all and thanked God for His blessings.

    I, too, can't wait for this discussion. It was a great read!

    Sally from Texas

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  62. I read it! Wow - I'm still blushing!

    Lori

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  63. I skimmed it rather than read it but I'll read the discussion.
    Thank you all for your prayers as I continue to battle with my personal Nabal (remember the abusive husband that Abigail's family landed her with?) knowing that I stood in church, of my own volition, and promised to love, honour and obey. Love? Yes, when he's sober which he is today thank God. (Actually I love him when he's drunk too but it's hard to divorce the person from the drink-induced behaviour.) Honour? It's hard to honour someone who neither honours himself nor anyone around him. Obey? Sorry folks, I can't quite get to that one.
    BUT -- Praise the Lord IN all things!

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  64. I read Song of Soloman. Again...Wow! Can't wait to hear your take on this book, Rachel. Love this group study. It has enriched my daily walk with my Lord! Thanks again.

    Kristi

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  65. Wow, what a reading! amazing what you find in the Bible!
    I read some of it to my husband.
    Margaret

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  66. I did it! Looking forward to the discussion. My favorite line so far, "Don't excite love, don't stir it up, until the time is ripe—and you're ready."

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  67. Praise the Lord, mimi!!!

    I rejoice with you as you step out in faith, giving to the Lord, and knowing He WILL provide.

    Tithing is so much more than money and budgets it's all about trust and honoring Him with a giving heart. Read all of Malachi 3:6-17titled "robbing God". But I'll post vs 8-12.

    "Will a man rob God? Yet you rob me. "But you ask, 'How do we rob you?' "In tithes and offerings. You are under a curse—the whole nation of you—because you are robbing me. Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in My house. Test Me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "AND SEE if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out SO MUCH blessing that you will NOT HAVE ROOM enough for it. I will prevent pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not cast their fruit," says the LORD Almighty. "Then all the nations will call you blessed, for yours will be a delightful land," says the LORD Almighty

    Wow...that's power huh? I believe tithing is the only area we are to really "test" the Lord.

    I hope this is helpful to read it in scripture. Maybe some others needed this scripture also.

    TRUST, TRUST, TRUST
    In His Grasp,
    SweatPea

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  68. I read it too! I'm also still "tagging" along! Thanks for this wonderful study! I've really enjoyed it!

    Krystal
    North East Texas

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  69. I read it.

    Ladies I would like to encourage you to read this in the Message translation. You can find it at BibleGateway.com.

    It's off to work.

    I can't wait to read everyones comments.

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  70. I started reading it and then went to run an errand. I had on the Moody Radio station and the midday connection was talking about this exact passage. So interesting to hear. They were talking about how the Bible is afirming how important that physical intimacy is between husband and wife. If anyone is interested in hearing what they had to say you can get the podcast of the show by going to the Moody Radio station website. Can't wait to finish reading and to hear more. - Sylvia

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  71. Wow indeed... I remember growing up we would call the Song of Soloman, "the nasty book"--LOL.. But you know what, if it is truly done right in the sight of the Lord, then it is undefiled as the Bible declares... man... can't wait to hear when we talk about this one.

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  72. And praise God to Christi, Hazel, Tommie! May God watch all of us. I am imagining all of us together and enjoying God's word. Ooh, that hit me just now.... I thank God that I am blessed to read or rather "talk" with all of my sisters in Christ everyday. Heavenly Father, you are Alpha and Omega, you are perpetual... you know our desires and and our needs. I lift all of my sisters up that are subscribed to this site. Thank you father for our issues and more importantly thanking you for allowing your son to die for us. Praise God! For you are worthy... Amen. Rachel, you never cease to amaze me... Love you all :)

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  74. I read it. Thanks for letting us know your prayers, including the answered prayers - it's encouraging to see God's work amongst us!

    Susan - VA

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  75. i read it ~ christi in TX

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  76. i read it. having never been married, had sex or been in love, this reading is probably different for me than the married women. it is an interesting read. i look forward to what you will have to say, rachel.

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  77. I read it. Loving it again...
    Makes for a terrific read and it took me forever - years of determination to "get it" - well, some of it. I know the understanding continues on as God opens up my mind and my heart. I can't wait to see Rachel's take on it since she always does such a great job in clarity for us all. I did a study years ago from Mike Bickle and that is really what began to open my understanding.
    To all who share prayer requests - I pray for you as I go and later God continues to bring some of you to my mind, so I pray again.
    Thanks for those with praises - it is an encouragement to all and I rejoice with you.
    Jo Beth

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  78. There has been some comments about tithing. I have always wondered what the "storehouse" actually means - does that always just mean the church you attend? I have had times when I didn't agree with our church in the ways that they spend some of the money that comes in and some is misused or wasted. At those times I have given to missionary work or to a local agency that is also in need. I want to do what is right. I would appreciate any comments, if you feel led.
    Jo Beth

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  79. I read it. I understand the question about why God would have put this into the Bible--but if we believe God's word that the marriage bed, which I think we all know means the physical intimacy within a marriage, is undefiled or pure, then we don't have to wonder why God would want something like this in the Bible. I am glad He did--it makes it more sure in my mind that the physical side or part of a marriage is all right and great and He wants us to enjoy it.

    MY question is more on the side of tefferk---why this glimpse of "marital bliss" by none other than the record-breaker married to HOW MANY WIVES?

    I, too, am looking forward to the light Rachel will have to shed on all this.

    My prayers continue to be with you all.

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  80. I read it!
    I must confess, I used to avoid this book in the bible - made me blush I guess! It was only after our study group attended an 'Intimate Issues' conference that I finally got it. The world has distorted our view of sexual intimacy and portrayed it as something vulgar or dirty. God intended it to be something beautiful within a marriage. We can be godly AND sensuous, as revealed in this passage of scripture. Its a case of changing how we think, and trying to view things from God's perspective. 'The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does; and likewise also the husband does not have authority over his own body, the wife does'. 1 Cor 7:4
    L. Northern Ireland

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  81. I don't know if this will help Jo Beth as it doesn't really help me either but...the note to storehouse in my NIV says "the treasury rooms of the sanctuary".

    It also references these three verses:
    Neh 13:12 All Judah brought the tithes of grain, new wine and oil into the storerooms.

    1 Kings 7:51 When all the work King Solomon had done for the temple of the LORD was finished, he brought in the things his father David had dedicated—the silver and gold and the furnishings—and he placed them in the treasuries of the LORD's temple.

    2 Chron 31:11 Hezekiah gave orders to prepare storerooms in the temple of the LORD, and this was done.

    I would guess this means the "accounts" of God's house, usually to be a local church.

    I've always heard that we are to give our normal 10% to our local church and then anything that we offer to other organizations, missionaries, etc. is to be above and beyond. Now, I don't know how that is extracted from the Bible as I've never researched it but I have always heard that and so I've always given my normal tithe offering to my church and then when I donate to other places that goes above that. My understanding is that we don't take from our normal church tithe to give outside. Now if that is wrong, I apologize. I am merely an amatuer at these difficult theological understandings.

    Can anyone else shed some new or different light onto this?

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  82. Wow! Who ever said that reading the Bible was boring? Never a dull moment in it, and I thank the good Lord for it.

    Laurieann from Canada

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  83. In reply to Jo Beth; in my humble opinion, as long as you are giving to the Lord, no matter what venue you choose, you are tithing. This is from my heart and not something that I've been taught. God is omnipresent so there are many, many ways to tithe.

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  84. I read it and OH MY!!! LOL!!! Can't wait for discussion. You all are in my prayers.



    LaTonya/FL

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  85. Jo Beth - could you place your tithe toward a designate account within your church? If your church is not making wise financial decisions- then giving toward a specific ministry or fund could be a way for you to tithe within your church.

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  86. I read it! What an interesting book! Looking forward, Rachael to your insight on this one as I have enjoyed each woman we've studied so far. Just wondering about the tithe issue...I'm having a hard time with this since my husband is not a faithful believer. Should my tithe include "his" income, or mine alone. My husband gets angry at the very mention of giving to the church. Lately I've been tithing only what I make and that makes him angry enough. I trust that God will answer my prayers regarding this issue, I just wanted my new sisters in Christ's opinions.
    cravinHim

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  87. Read it...my Bible study group recently finished studying this book using Tommy Nelson's study guide - it was awesome. I recommend it highly - even got the guys in the group to open up.

    Kathy in texas

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  88. I read it and enjoyed it. I Always
    Wait patiently for the discussions and comments from you all. I see all the prayer requests and think that I can never ask for all of your help, but today I will.... Please pray for my alcoholic daughter. She has numerous mental illness's also and I have been praying my whole life for Gods plan for her life. My children and I had been in counseling for years
    after their father commited suicide,(when they were very young), so I do know where to go for professional help if I need it. My daugher is already in the care of professionals and has been for years. However, no one can stop her from drinking which leads to many other problems for herself and her children. She always has remorse the next day but it still never ends. I would so appreciate prayers for my daughter, "L". We
    are also very familar with Alcoholics Anonymous and similar groups.
    I will thank you in advance.....

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  89. I read it. Move over ladies the back row is getting a little crowded. I think that their are a lot of us who are quietly reading, learning from, and being blessed by the wealth of info that all of you wonderful and insightful ladies are sharing. Thankyou!!!!!
    Suzy in FL

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  90. I've read it and look forward to your comments Rachel.

    My heart is with all those with the prayer requests, and I've been praying as I'm reading them.

    To the anonymous with the alcoholic daugther, I feel for you and your daughter. I pray that God would be so real to her that she won't need to go to alcohol or anything else any longer for comfort. You can have a million right answers to her problem, but only God knows the spot to touch that will heal her soul. It may be good to ask God to not let the sins of her father to be passed down to her. You could also ask God to put a covering over her, and break off any generational sin (from any ancestor)off of your children, so it cannot effect them any longer. There's a book on that by Liberty Savard if you want to read more about that(probably many books by other authors too).

    I agree that God put the Song of Solomon in the Bible to show us that sexual desires between husband and wife are created and blessed by Him. This couple didn't just desire each other, they also wanted to be together and share their hearts with one another.
    I also agree that this is also a picture of spiritual intimacy that Jesus desires with His bride, us. He longs for us to share our hearts with Him, and desires to speak to our hearts. I think that He longs for us to ask Him to be filled by His Spirit so that we can walk closer to Him, and have heart to heart intimate talks with Him. I am learning to ask God everyday to fill me with His Holy Spirit. I use to feel unworthy and felt that because I wasn't perfect that I couldn't ask Him to be with me so closely. My felt that my heart was to dirty for Him. It wasn't. I finally decided enough was enough, and repented of all I knew, and asked Jesus to take my filthy rags of my own attempts to be righteous, and clean me. Then I asked Him to fill me with His Holy Spirit. I didn't feel anything except that it was peaceful and felt right. God is good! I'm finding that I've been getting more out of His scripture.

    I agree with Sweatpea that we give our 10% to our church, and anything above that would be considered offerings. To whomever had problems with your church possibly misusing the money- you could pray and ask God to send your tithe to wherever He wants it to go in your church (do you also need to forgive the church?). I'm sure that God will honor your prayer!

    Connie, Canada

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  91. anonymous "cravinHim":
    That's a good question. I've never been in that situation. I probably would lean toward just your income but really haven't a clue. Continue to seek the Lord and He will provide the peace and you will know what is right.

    Does anyone else have a take on this?

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  92. About the responses on tithing to the storehouse;
    I really appreciate the referrences to scriptures, but still am not sure what "storehouse" means. Maybe I'm just blocked on what seems obvious to others. I really appreciate what sweetpea and mommatoes had to say. Debrah, I have done this and it has given me a sense of peace, thanks. Connie, I don't think I need to forgive my church, but since it was mentioned, I will certainly take this before my Lord and ask Him to search my heart. I want to be a good steward of God's money, and want to be a responsible giver.
    I will continue to ask God to give me His understanding and guidance. Thanks so much for the comments. It's a blessing to walk this road with all of you.
    Jo Beth

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  93. Thank you Connie from Canada for
    your thoughts and wisdom regarding
    my daugher. I will do as you
    suggested and I appreciate your answer. Even my psycologists from the past, can hardly beleive our
    family life story. It has just been so much. I know many others have been through much more than I so I only have to think of that to
    keep myself on track. Of course I
    have many paths where the Lord has
    carried me and my family. If it
    weren't for the power of Christ in
    my life, I don't know where we would be. Thank you again.

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  94. Jo Ann in Denver.... Rachel O. I pray that you are successful in preparing for your weekend retreat and for all in attendance and that you safely go and return to us and your family.

    I read The Shulammite Woman and it is different from what I have read before. I read it quite awhile ago and I try to go back and reread chapters so that I gain more insight.

    What beautiful words are used to describe both the Shulammite woman and her lover. They are so deeply in love with one another.

    I don't see either one of them taking each other for granted. I look forward to your discussion.

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  95. I have been lead to add my prayers for Lorrie and her 1st grandbaby and the ultrasound....Cassandra in Virginia......Anonymous/MiMi/Fl....Cari, God is smiling down on you and He is handling the surgical tools with your surgeon and He will guide him to successfully complete your surgery....Josie all the tests will be what you hoped....I, too, had to have a mammogram and mine was found to be normal...Anonymous...congrats!....Donna & Sharon and your husbands, God is in control...Bethann, claim it...you will have the baby and he or she will be healthy....and last but not least, Hazel...I hope you will take what I am going to say in the spirit in which it is said, you just do the right thing no matter what your husband does or says because it's not what he does or says, it's how you react to it. I ask God to lift each of you up and give you wisdom and discernment in all your difficulties...we all fall short but because we have God in our lives He will bring you through. Take care and if I missed any one else's prayer requests...please forgive the oversight...I pray for everyone that God will handle all you go through and comfort you and your entire family. Sweet Blessings/ Jo Ann-Denver

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  96. I read it. TR

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  97. Hi ladies,
    I have to agree with Jean that this book in the bible is what God intended marriage to be. I am so thankful that after 34 yrs of marriage, our appearance has changed a bit with a few gray hairs, and a few wrinkles, I still look at my husband as the strikingly handsome man that swept me off my feet one summer day so long ago. I still get goosebumps when he walks into the room. We've had a few bumps along the way but it only made us stronger. Our daughter who is now 24 wrote a report her senior yr in high school and I quote " I want to find a man that love me and looks at me the way my daddy looks at my mom." I hope that someday she finds that kind of love. She also made a choice that resulted in an unexpected blessing that has brought so much joy to our lives.
    Melissa, do not be saddened by the decisions you made, Your exactly where God wants you at the moment and how great that He hand picked you to be your sons mommy. Anonymous- I will pray for you. I recommend a book by Joyce Meyer called Beauty in the ashes. She was abused for years by her father. With God's help you can and will overcome this.
    Anonymous-- I will pray for your daugher to get out of the pit she's in. It is a illness. She is going to have to want to get clean. You and your family will be in my prayers.
    In Him
    Tommie :)

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  98. I'm a little late on my post i did read it and really enjoyed it. Looking forward to teh disscuission.cassandra from virginia.

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  99. I read it!

    God Bless!
    Linda - NC

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  100. I read it - rather I listened to it on The Bible Expereince CD's! If you think reading these stories are great you should try listening to them - WOW!

    Jeri in Holland, MI

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  101. I did it a little late! :)

    Tonya T

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  102. wow i read it

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  103. ummmm, I blushed a few times..... I read it!

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