Women Near the Cross

women near the cross

My passion for studying God’s Word began about 5 years ago. I had reluctantly signed up for a bible study on the book of Genesis, secretively wondering what I would ever learn from such an ancient book. By the time I had gotten through studying the life of Abraham, I was hooked! These characters that had always seemed fictitious in my head, were now real on the pages in front of me. I remember being amazed at how human and flawed they were; and then subsequently amazed by our gracious God that drew so near to them. God used that bible study to light a fire in me for studying His word; and also for teaching me that His Book is as relevant to us today as it was to those in the past.

One of the most significant realizations for me over the past several years of bible study has been that woman made up the majority at the foot of Jesus’ cross. John 19:25 tells us that “Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene”. That is so significant to me as a woman! We as women have a place in God’s story; we are called to draw near the cross of Jesus, just like those women did the day that Jesus physically hung on the cross. Furthermore, Hebrews 4:12 says “The Word of God is alive and active”. His Word is different from any other book. It isn’t just a record of history, but rather a daily, God-breathed guide for purposeful living in today’s world. His words are actively speaking to, and meeting the needs of His people, even today. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 says that “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of Godmay be thoroughly equipped for every good work”. It contains every bit of guidance, comfort, and security that we will ever need while walking this planet…but we have to open it and study it to uncover its treasures.

I believe that God is opening up an opportunity for an online bible study community of women through Playing Sublimely. I want this place to be a community of women that refuse to accept a mediocre Christian walk. Christ did not leave the splendor of heaven and die on a cross, for you and me to live out a boring life here on this earth. I pray this community becomes a place where flawed, tired, everyday girls can come together to seek what our God is saying to us in His Word..together, as women drawing near the cross. I cannot tell you how excited (and nervous) I am about the days ahead.

Today’s world is tough, and the challenges are relentless, but our God is willing and able. Just as Esther rose to the calling that God had placed before her in her time, so may we respond to the calling God has for us in this day. I pray that we can come together in study for such a time as this, so that we as God’s servants may be thoroughly equipped for every good work that lies before us. Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen. (Ephesians 3:20) I can’t wait to get started with you girls!

Much love in Him whom I serve,

Amy

MOSES BIBLE STUDY:

Women Near the Cross: A Bible Study on the life of Moses – A note from Mary and Amy

Day 1: Introduction: Slavery in Egypt

Day 2: Shiphrah and Puah – Delivering the Deliverer

Day 3: Jochebed: Show Me the Faith!

Day 4: From Palace to Fugitive: Moses in the Desert

Day 5: I Have Heard Their Cry

Day 6: A Little Q & A With God

Day 7: The Homecoming

Day 8: Cut It Off Already!