Determined Study - Week 3, Day 1: Luke 7:1-35

In today's episode, Heather tackles the complex topic of God's attitude towards humanity, addressing the common dichotomy people often perceive between a God of grace and a God of punishment. Sharing from her personal life, Heather opens up about her struggles with a terminal genetic disorder and how these challenges led her to question God's care and presence in moments of despair. Through Luke 7, she finds answers and a deeper understanding of Jesus's compassion for humanity.

 

Scripture Reading:

Luke 7:1-35

 

Big Idea:

Today's main message is that our actions of compassion towards others are a powerful way to demonstrate God’s tender love for humanity. Through the account of Jesus in Capernaum and Nain, we see Jesus acting out of deep compassion, challenging us to do the same in our lives.

 

Devotional:

Heather discusses the scene where Jesus encounters a widowed mother in Nain, about to bury her only son. This story, although brief, is potent in its demonstration of Jesus's spontaneous compassion towards someone in dire need. Heather highlights the significant moment when Jesus tells the mother not to cry, an action that reflects His heartfelt response to human suffering. This encounter not only showcases Jesus's empathy but also foreshadows His own destiny as the only Son who would die to save humanity.

 

Embracing Compassion:

• Understanding Compassion: Compassion is about noticing someone's pain and taking steps to alleviate it. Jesus's example teaches us that compassion is a call to action, prompted by a moved heart.
• The Impact of Compassion: Through Jesus's compassionate acts, we're reminded of the profound impact our kindness can have on those around us, revealing God's love in tangible ways.
• Living Compassionately: Heather admits that compassion does not come naturally to her but expresses a desire to grow in this area because it aligns with Jesus's commands. This honesty opens a pathway for listeners to reflect on their own capacity for compassion.

 

Questions to Ponder:

1. Reflect on your own nature - do you consider yourself compassionate? Why or why not?
2. Consider why Jesus felt compassion for the widow. What does this tell us about His character?
3. Can you recall a time when you were on the receiving end of compassion? How did it affect you?
4. Think of ways you can extend compassion today. What are some practical steps you can take?

 

Wrap-Up:

As we conclude today's episode, we are reminded of the power of compassion in reflecting God's love to the world. Through our acts of kindness, we can help others see God not as a distant or punishing deity but as a compassionate Father.

Join us tomorrow for Week 3, Day 2, of *Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment*, as we continue to delve into Jesus's teachings and how they challenge us to live a life marked by love, compassion, and grace.

 

Final Bits:

• Purchase the workbook here (affiliate link) for our Spring Bible study of Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment, a six-week study of Luke by Heather M. Dixon. Sign up here to receive content and reminders by email. 
• No Dusty Bibles Community: We're more than just a podcast; we're a community committed to keeping our Bibles open and active. Dive deeper into God's Word and connect with fellow believers who share your passion for Scripture.
• Weekly Email Sign-Up: Interested in getting more out of your Bible study? Sign up to receive our weekly email at No Dusty Bibles. Every Monday we’ll send you a weekly reading plan and extra resources to enhance your understanding of the Bible.
• The Rescued Letters Collective: Learn more about our broader mission at The Rescued Letters Collective. Visit this link for more information and to follow us on social media. Stay connected with us and be part of a movement that brings hope and healing through the power of God's Word.

 

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Thank you for joining us for this episode of the No Dusty Bibles Podcast. Remember, every page turned in the Bible is a step closer to understanding the heart of God. We're here to journey with you, one chapter at a time.

Portions of today’s episode are adapted from Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment, by Heather M. Dixon, © 2019 by Abingdon Press, all rights reserved. 

In our daily readings, we are grateful to utilize the World English Bible (WEB) translation, a resource committed to making the words of Scripture accessible to all. The WEB is in the public domain, allowing it to be freely used and shared. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the contributors and supporters of the World English Bible for their dedication to making this valuable translation available to the public. Their work enables us to explore and share the Bible's teachings with everyone, furthering our mission to make the Bible accessible and available for every woman.