Treasure Bible Study Guide - July to September

July-September

TREASURE Helping Women Fulfill the Great Commission HIGH HOLIDAYS | JESUS SATISFIES OUR NEEDS | FEASTING IN VAIN

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Sweeter Than Honey The Banquet of the Word Introduction: An invitation to sit at the heavenly table For English translation see Treasure Bible study guide at https://www.wnac.org/treasure/treasure-magazine/

TREASURE Volume VI, Issue 3 | July-September 2025 | WNAC.ORG

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BIBL E STUD IES

F E AT U R E S

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High Holidays.............................5

Spanish Study Link .................. 2

Should believing Christians today observe the Jewish Festivals of the Bible? Is there a lesson or application to be learned from studying the Festivals?

Capturing Memories............... 19

ISSN 8960038 Volume VI, Number 3

Jesus Satisfies Our Needs........ 13 What are Jesus’ first miracles recorded in the other three gospels? Is there any significance to these opening acts?

Feasting in Vain......................23 How can you incorporate joy, gratitude, and worship into times of personal celebrations? Are you ever tempted to reshape your view of God into something more convenient or comfortable to suit your desires or timeline?

Weddings Around the World 21 Let’s Feast: I’m A Christian.... 29 Spanish study — Sweeter Than Honey ..................................... 31

BEH IN D T H E S CE N E S Shelly and Brandon Smith..... 12

IN EV E RY I SS U E Tidbits........................................4 Giggles......................................18 Just Being Ruthful................... 31

TREASURE (ISSN 8960038) is produced quarterly by Women Nationally Active for Christ of the National Association of Free Will Baptists, Inc., 5233 Mount View Road, Antioch, TN 37013-2306. Copyright privileges reserved. A 2025 Member of Evangelical Press Association.

Mail questions or comments to: Treasure, PO Box 5002, Antioch, TN 37011-5002

Editorial Staff Ruth McDonald, Eidtor-in-Chief Phyllis York, Managing Editor Tori Matlock, Design WNAC Board Jonda Patton, Kentucky Sharon Dickey, Texas Tracy Payne, Arkansas LeeAnn Wilfong, Missouri Jessica Edwards, Tennessee Katie Postlewaite, South Carolina Melanie Franks, Alabama Angie Frazier, Florida Ashley Alphin, Ohio Contributors Dari Goodfellow, Arizona Shelly Smith, North Carolina Carol Reid, Tennessee Rebekah Talbot, Tennessee Tim York, Tennessee Cookie Vazquez, California Jonda Patton, Kentucky Sarah Sargent, Ohio Ruth McDonald, Tennessee

treasure@wnac.org | wnac.org | @WNACFWB J U LY- S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 5 3

Summer Storms BY: Jonda Patton

LU KE 4 About the Colunnist: Summer 2025 officially begins on June 20 with the summer solstice. Summer’s first day occurs when the sun reaches its highest and northernmost point, resulting in the longest Jonda Patton attends day of the year. Summer 2025 will last approximately three months, ending on SepPikeville (Kentucky) tember 22. Three wonderful months of warmer temperatures, extra daylight, vacations, Free Will Baptist family reunions, gardens, and no school! Many people enjoy summer as their favorite Church, where her season, except for one thing — summer storms. husband, Jim, pastors.

(Jonda has attend- In Mark 4, the Bible says that Jesus began to teach parables beside the sea. A very large ed Pikeville Church crowd gathered, and He got into a boat and sat in it. The people were beside the sea on since she was saved land. Moving to verse 36: When evening came, Jesus said to the disciples, “Let us go at the age of 12.) One across to the other side.” So, they left the crowd, took Jesus in the boat, and started out. of her passions is Free A great windstorm arose, and the waves broke into the boat, filling it with water. But Will Baptist Women’s Jesus was asleep in the stern. The disciples woke Him and said, “Teacher, do you not care Ministries—she began that we are perishing?” Jesus awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Peace! Be serving on the WNAC still!” Immediately, the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. He said to them, “Why Board in 2011. She also are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?” enjoys meeting women Trials and temptations that come into our lives can be compared to a storm. Just as the from across the world, disciples, our faith may be weak in our storm. What can we do to survive our tempest? working with youth, 1. Pray — Regular prayer seeking God’s peace, comfort, guidance, and strength can build and seeing the beauty of trust in Him during our storms.

God’s creation.

2. Scripture — Regular reading of God’s Word, and seeking passages that speak to our situation, can bring comfort and hope. Claiming God’s promises aloud can also strengthen our faith through the power of the Scriptures.

3. Support — Sharing your struggles with someone you trust may be helpful. That devoted friend may provide support by sharing similar experiences and offer comfort by praying with and for you.

4. Praise and Worship — Praise and worshiping God during a storm is not always easy; however, doing so can strengthen your faith and trust in Him. Let’s remember, we can claim God’s promises. “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you” (Isaiah 43:2).

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High Holidays BY: Dari Goodfellow

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Leviticus 23

In the Old Testament God set up specific times for ancient Israel to meet with Him in various and special ways. As given to the Israelites in Leviticus 23, the Jewish calendar contains seven sacred feasts or festivals. Times that God set aside for His people when He asked them to come away from their daily, regular routines; to stop their activities; and give their time and attention to Him through celebration and rest.

These “appointed times” were for the benefit of the people. In the days of Moses when these feasts were inaugurated, the Israelite life was full of tedium and labor. God blesses the nation by commanding they stop their work and rest. And in that resting, they were to lay aside the busyness of the routine and focus on the magnificent — the true and living God. They were to feast and celebrate, not only as a commemoration and remembrance, but these ‘holidays’ were given so God’s people could participate and immerse themselves in the celebrated event and the full worship of God. By the reading of the Torah and through prayer and celebration, these feasts offered the Israelites a tangible activity by which they could participate in the past deeds of God’s salvation and His rescue. They were enjoying the blessing of the past right now in the present.

“The LORD spoke to Moses, saying, ‘Speak to the people of Israel and say to them, These are the appointed feasts (times) of the LORD that you shall proclaim as holy convocations (assemblies); they are my appointed feasts (times)’” (Leviticus23:2).

These seven appointed feasts are: Passover, Unleavened Bread, First Fruits, Pentecost, Trumpets, Atonement, and Tabernacles.

Before God gave the details for the seven feasts, He instituted the Sabbath, (as covered in a previous study). When God gave this command to the Israelites, He was symbolizing for them the six days of creation and day seven of rest. “God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it God rested from all his work that he had done in creation” (Genesis 2:3). God 6 TREASURE

set the rhythm of time in motion, and this rhythm guided the Israelites through each year.

Going forward, the number ‘seven’ has significance all through Scripture, and it is used to calculate the rest of the festival schedule: ∙Sabbath, the seventh day of the week ∙ Passover and Unleavened Bread, lasts one day plus seven days and no work on first and seventh days ∙ First Fruits, celebrated the day after the seventh day of Passover ∙ Pentecost, celebrated seven times seven (49) plus one day after Passover ∙Trumpets, first day of the seventh month ∙ Day of Atonement, tenth day of the seventh month ∙Tabernacles, middle of seventh month lasts seven days with no work on first and seventh day.

Representing a picture of the beautifully perfect “Garden of Eden” rest, the daily, delightful fellowship, and the exquisite tranquility Adam and Eve experienced with God, the Sabbath is interjected every seven days into ordinary lives and time. All the other feasts duplicate the Sabbath “rest” by calling God’s people aside to pause their daily living and concentrate on Him alone.

This study will focus on the last three feasts of the seven Jewish Festivals: Festival of Trumpets (Rosh Hashanah), Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur), and briefly, Festival of Tabernacles (Sukkot). Together these three are known as the “High Holidays,” and occur in the Fall (September and October). Viewed also as the ‘days of awe and wonder,’ these special days begin a stirring journey for the Israelite soul as they each follow on the heels of the other. The close proximity of these festivals offered each Israelite multiple opportunities for soul searching and for vicariously experiencing the meaning of each celebration.

The Festival of the Trumpets is the starting point.

The Festival of the Trumpets “The LORD said to Moses, ‘Give the following instructions to the people of Israel. On the first day of the appointed month in early autumn, you are to observe a day of complete rest. It will be an official day for holy assembly, a day commemorated with loud blasts of a trumpet. You must do no ordinary work on that day. Instead, you are to present special gifts to the LORD’” (Leviticus 23:24).

In the Old Testament the only explicit instructions for this day were to assemble, to rest, and to offer sacrifices. And special emphasis is given to making noise … “a day commemorated with loud blasts of a trumpet” (verse 24). The central observance of the holiday is the blowing of the shofar (ram’s horn).

In the Old Testament, the trumpet signaled time to stop working and assemble for worship. And “special gifts” were to be presented to the honoree, Almighty God. “My offering, my food for my food offerings, my pleasing aroma, you shall be careful to offer to me at its appointed time” (Numbers 28:2).

Today, the blowing of the shofar also reminds the Jewish participants of the coronation of their king, proclaiming God as the King of the universe. Over the course of the holiday, the shofar will sound 100 times. And each blast is an expression of the solemn reason for the celebration.

Jewish participants are urged to enter this special time with repentant hearts, as they recognize their sin and unworthiness before the Lord God. In one ritual of the festival, the men go to a body of water and empty their pockets into it, symbolically casting their sins into the water. They believe on Rosh Hashanah the destiny of the righteous is written in the Book of Life and the destiny of the wicked is written in the Book of Death. However, no name will be inscribed in either book for ten days.

As Rosh Hashanah celebrations end, Jewish believers enter the “Ten Days of Repentance.” These days are sandwiched between Rosh Hashanah and the next festival, Yom Kippur. Ten days to contemplate one’s sin and to repent.

Spiritual preparation includes honest self-examination and a turning to God. Turning away from themselves and reconciling with those who have been offended and reaching out in consideration for the needs of others. The Jewish believer is encouraged to do charitable acts during this time. These days set a tone of repentance for the next festival, just ten days away…the most holy festival…the Day of Atonement.

Something to consider: What aspect about the Feast of Trumpets strikes you most?

What spiritual application can you find in this Feast that applies to your own life?

The Festival of Trumpets is known today as Rosh Hashanah, or, “Head of the Year.” This holiday is recognized as the beginning of the Jewish New Year, and the actions of the Jewish participants on Rosh Hashanah have an enormous impact on the rest of the year for each person.

The Day of Atonement

Rosh Hashanah also commemorates the creation of the world and of Adam and Eve and it emphasizes the special relationship between God and man. It is the anniversary of man’s first sin and subsequent repentance. The call of the shofar is a call to repentance.

The shofar blast also speaks of Abraham and his son Isaac, who was tied and ready to be sacrificed, when God suddenly produced a ram to be his substitute.

“And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, ‘Now on the tenth day of this seventh month is the Day of Atonement. It shall be for you a time of Holy convocation (assembly), and you shall afflict (humble/deny) yourselves and present a food offering to the LORD. And you shall not do any work on that very day, for it is a Day of Atonement, to make atonement for you before the LORD your God. For whoever is not afflicted on that very day shall be cut off from his

What benefits would there be today in having the shofar blasts (or something representing a daily reminder) to cause us to stop and take time to focus on God?

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people. And whoever does any work on that very day, that person I will destroy from among his people. You shall not do any work. It is a statute forever throughout your generations in all your dwelling places. It shall be to you a Sabbath of solemn rest, and you shall afflict yourselves.

On the ninth day of the month beginning at evening, from evening to evening shall you keep your Sabbath’” (Leviticus 23:26-32).

In the Old Testament this most holy and solemn day, the Day of Atonement, was the only day of the year when the High Priest could enter the Holy of Holies in the Tabernacle…the place where God resided. And God warned Moses that to enter this holy place on any other day would cause the death of the guilty person. The ceremony of atonement for sin was an extremely serious one, and could only be performed following explicit directions given by God. (To better understand how grave the obedience to these instructions was, take time to read Leviticus 10, when Aaron’s sons decided to worship their own way.)

Acting alone, Aaron, (the High Priest at this time), had to cleanse himself before changing into a different and less elaborate garment than the usual high 8 TREASURE

priestly attire. In preparation for the sin offering for the people, he first had to sacrifice a bull for a sin offering for himself and his own household (a sacrificial animal always had to be without spot or any blemish). That sacrificial blood was taken inside the Holy of Holies and sprinkled on the Ark of the Covenant to cleanse it. Afterwards, Aaron brought two goats and, in a type of lottery, selected one goat to represent the “uncleanness and rebellion of the Israelites, whatever their sins had been” (Leviticus 16:16). That designated goat was then sacrificed and its blood sprinkled on the Ark of the Covenant, and on the altar, and on the tabernacle itself. From the constant human contact, the house of God was unclean, and this goat’s blood was its cleansing agent. (I also urge you to read Leviticus 16 for the full description of the ritual God gave to Moses for the atoning of sin. God’s instructions are explicit and detailed and were to be followed to the letter.)

Now, for the second goat…

“And when he has made an end of atoning for the Holy Place and the tent of meeting and the altar, he shall present the live goat. And Aaron shall lay both his hands on

the head of the live goat and confess over it all the iniquities of the people of Israel, and all their transgressions, all their sins. And he shall put them on the head of the goat and send it away into the wilderness by the hand of a man who is in readiness. The goat shall bear all their iniquities on itself to a remote area, and he shall let the goat go free in the wilderness” (Leviticus 16:20-22).

This ceremony became the most important part of the Day of Atonement. All the sins of the Israelites were symbolically transferred to this ‘scapegoat’ as Aaron laid his hands on the goat and confessed over it, “all the iniquities of the people of Israel, and all their transgressions, all their sins.” The laying on of the High Priest’s hands represented a connection between the confession of sin and subsequent atonement. Once this ceremony was completed, the sin-bearing goat was taken into the wilderness to die. The sin was gone, and the Day of Atonement was considered accomplished.

God’s final word on the matter in Leviticus 16:30, “For on this day shall atonement be made for you to cleanse you. You shall be clean before the LORD from all your sins.” The hearts of the Israelites were clean for another year.

In today’s Jewish traditions, Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) is celebrated with a day of rest and abstinence (fasting) from all food, drink, and sexual relations. Charity for others is emphasized during this time. For nearly 26 hours worshipping Jews spend most of the holiday in the synagogue, “afflicting” or humbling themselves through fasting, praying and meditating, contemplating their sin and asking for forgiveness.

Though a solemn day, Yom Kippur also has an element of joy, as Jewish believers are confidant God forgives the sins of those who sincerely repent and who demonstrate their repentance through improved living and good deeds. During this time, the Jews believe their verdict of life is sealed in the Book of Life for another year.

Something to consider: Do you remember the moment you came to faith in Christ? Share your salvation experience.

What brought you to accept the full atonement and salvation of Christ?

Explain why this Feast was so important to the Israelites. Compare that importance with the significance of Christ’s atonement for us.

Once Yom Kippur has ended, plans are immediately begun for the next festival, the Feast of the Tabernacles, which follows in just five days. These days are filled with the plans and construction of the temporary “booths” or shelters where God has commanded the people to dwell for this next festival.

The Feast of Tabernacles “And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, ‘Speak to the people of Israel, saying, On the fifteenth day of this seventh month and for seven days is the Feast of Booths to the LORD. On the first day shall be a holy convocation; you shall not do any ordinary work. For seven days you shall present food offerings to the LORD. On the eighth day you shall hold a holy convocation and present a food offering to the LORD. It is a solemn assembly; you shall not do any ordinary work.

“These are the appointed feasts of the LORD, which you shall proclaim as times of holy convocation, for presenting to the LORD food offerings, burnt offerings and grain offerings, sacrifices and drink offerings, each on its proper day, besides the LORD’s Sabbaths and besides your gifts and besides all your vow offerings and besides all your freewill offerings, which you give to the LORD. “On the fifteenth day of the seventh month, when you have gathered in the produce of the land, you shall celebrate the feast of the LORD seven days. On the first day shall be a solemn rest, and on the eighth day shall be a solemn rest. And you shall take on the first day the fruit of splendid trees, branches of palm trees and boughs of leafy trees and willows of the brook, and you shall rejoice before the LORD your God seven days. You shall celebrate it as a feast to the LORD for seven days in the year. It is a statute J U LY- S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 5 9

forever throughout your generations; you shall celebrate it in the seventh month. You shall dwell in booths for seven days. All native Israelites shall dwell in booths, that your generations may know that I made the people of Israel dwell in booths when I brought them out of the land of Egypt: I am the LORD your God’” (Leviticus 23:23-42).

This feast was covered in a previous study, so I will not explore all its features. But because it is the last of the “high holidays,” I want to remind us of some of its distinctives.

The Feast of Tabernacles is also known as “The Feast of Booths” or Sukkot, the last feast (the seventh) that God commanded the Israelites to observe. Harvest time has just ended, and the people are ready to celebrate, having constructed their temporary shelters (from tree branches) as required. This holiday joyously commemorates God’s continued provision for them with a good harvest and reminds them of His provision and protection during the 40 years the Israelites spent in the wilderness.

In today’s world, the Jews still celebrate this weeklong holiday. They build temporary shelters, and the objective is to spend as much time as possible in the “booth,” especially taking all meals in it. Each day of the Feast of Tabernacles is a day of blessings and celebration, and on the seventh day everyone’s fate is finalized (after being signed on Rosh Hashanah and sealed on Yom Kippur).

With the Feast of Tabernacles celebrated, the yearly Jewish feasts have ended. The following paragraph is an excellent summary of the Jewish festivals by Duane A. Garrett in his piece entitled, “Feasts and Festivals of Israel,” (www.biblestudytools.com): “Israel’s festivals were communal and commemorative as well as theological and typological. They were communal in that they drew the nation together for celebration and worship as they recalled the common origin and experience of the people. They were commemorative in that they kept alive the story of what God had done in the exodus and during the sojourn.

They were theological in that the observance of the 10 TREASURE

festivals presented the participants with lessons on the reality of sin, judgment, and forgiveness, on the need for thanksgiving to God, and on the importance of trusting God rather than hoarding possessions. They were typological in that they anticipated a great fulfillment of the symbolism of the feast. It is not surprising that each of the major feasts is in some way alluded to in the New Testament.”

What do these festivals mean to the Christ-follower?

The festivals that we have studied are mainly for Jewish worshippers; however, many Messianic Jews and other Christian believers celebrate the feasts as well. In celebrating these “appointed times,” we can acknowledge and celebrate that what God did for the Israelites in the Old Testament, He is still doing for believers today.

His preservation and protection of His chosen people extends to Christ-followers as well. We can rejoice knowing God’s preservation and protection of Israel eventually brought the blessed Savior to the world.

With its emphasis on the blowing of the trumpet, many believe Rosh Hashanah, the Feast of the Trumpets, points to the Rapture of the Church when Jesus will break through the clouds at the sound of a loud trumpet.

Christians will leave their work and rise from the earth.

Just as the trumpet called the Jewish nation to turn to God in repentance and to get ready for the Day of Atonement, so we are reminded one day the trumpet will call from Heaven, announcing the return of Jesus and warning the world of coming judgment. “For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord” (I Thessalonians 4:16-17).

At Rosh Hashanah, the Jews take time to seriously consider their fate and speculate if their names will be written in the Book of Life for another year. As believing Christians we understand the call to repentance and belief in the full salvation Christ provided us. Ours is a beautiful assurance of eternal life knowing with

complete confidence our names are listed in God’s Book of Life.

And here at this point, we realize the satisfaction we receive from our salvation in Christ. What the Israelites did in the Old Testament was a temporary satisfaction…simply rolling their sins ahead for a year and trusting in their good works to make them right with God. Christ’s blood sacrifice on the Cross fully satisfied the penalty for all sin, past, present, future. His sacrifice was, “once for all” (Romans 6:10), the permanent solution. Belief and submission to God in faith and through Christ’s death and miraculous resurrection, we are blessed with eternal life.

For the Day of Atonement many believe that day denotes the Second Coming of Christ. For the remnant of Jews who will “look upon Him whom they have pierced,” (Zechariah 12:10b), it will be a time of repentance of sin and receiving Jesus as the Messiah.

The Feast of Tabernacles is believed to express the idea of Jesus ‘tabernacling’ with us, a sign of God’s faithful presence with His people. One day, Jesus will dwell with man forever in His physical kingdom (Revelation 21:3).

Something to consider: Should believing Christians today observe the Jewish Festivals of the Bible? Why, or why not?

When you consider all seven God-given Festivals, what do you see as their overarching theme or purpose? What does this tell us about God and His love towards us?

God purposely set up times for His people to focus on Him. Have you set up times in your own life when you totally concentrate on Him? If so, share with your group.

Knowing God created the Sabbath for rest and fellowship with Him, does that change your approach to how you view your Sundays?

Is there a particular lesson or application you have learned from studying these Festivals?

As I researched and studied for this Festivals’ topic, my heart was deeply stirred with the idea the very Creator of the universe expressed His interest and compelling

desire to spend time with His people. He even set up holidays with activities and commanded them to ‘stop’ and ‘rest’ and celebrate! He also established specific ways to acknowledge Him with their special gifts.

Who could comprehend the depth of God’s love for His people? These annual events presented tangible ways God was demonstrating His love. The Sabbath and the seven feasts were times He proposed for them to rest from the daily grind and focus on the holy and experience His love. God was continually trying to re-create the ‘Garden of Eden’s perfection’ as a gift to His loved ones. He longed for the communion and conversation and fellowship again He had experienced with Adam and Eve. Today, God loves His people (Christian believers) with the same indescribable depth He loved in Old Testament times. Replete with examples, the Bible clearly reveals where God’s actions cry out to us from Heaven shouting how much He loves us and desires to personally fellowship with us, only asking us to recognize the depth of His love and respond with full submission and reliance on Him. This study has caused me to think about how much God deeply loves me, and how He longs to commune with me. Do you want to respond to that beautiful love calling us to spend more time with Him? I certainly do!

About the Writer: Dari Goodfellow lives with her daughter, Jill, and family in Gilbert, Arizona. She is the proud mother of three children and ‘Marmie’ of nine grandchildren.

Research and study resources: https://www.bibleproject.com https://www.britannica.com https://www.chabad.org https://www.hebrew4christians.com https://www.1517.org, 40 Minutes in the Old Testament https://www.gotquestions.org

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BEHIND THE SCENES It’s Sunday morning at 7 a.m. Pastor Brandon

pulls the box truck and trailer up to the elementary school, which is about to change into Equip Church. By 7:30 the production and sound team arrive to set up the worship area. By 8:30 the gym resembles a church, worship practice begins, and the rest of the teams arrive to set up guest services and the kids’ areas. By 9:15 everything is ready. Then we have our team meeting and prepare to greet guests arriving for the worship service at 10:00.

After church, we tear everything down and load it into the carts and trailer. By 12:00 Pastor Brandon drives the box truck to its weekly home. Another Sunday worship service is over.

Setting up a ‘portable’ church each week is no small task.

It’s not just about putting out chairs and a pulpit; we want to create a space that truly feels like church. To do that can be challenging at times. After a long, busy week, waking up early to transform a school into a worship space requires effort. The physical demands are real — hauling heavy carts and equipment takes a toll. Coordinating the serve team can be challenging because of unclear schedules. Unpredictable weather forces us to figure out how to get everything inside without drenching our gear or our people. Sometimes the building isn’t ready, so we must tidy up before the setup begins. And of course, anytime technology is involved, something can go wrong. But...

Week after week, I’ve watched our team show up and turn what could be a daunting task into something that feels effortless. The setup process has fostered a strong sense of community within our serve teams and the church, becoming a time when we grow closer, build relationships, and solve problems together — because, let’s face it, problems always occur. I’ve seen people step

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up repeatedly. For instance, our sound system wouldn’t play music, and the team quickly found another solution; or the person scheduled for guest services was sick, and several others jumped in to set up and serve without hesitation. And through it all, they do it with joy. We’ve learned to rely on each other — but even more so, to depend on God. Setup has helped build a strong work ethic in our church.

Some people show up every week, scheduled or not, just because they want to serve. Our initial launch team trained the new team members so well that now, thanks to so many willing hands, most people get a week off from serving. It’s been amazing to watch, especially since our name, Equip Church, reflects our mission: equipping God’s people to do His work and build His Church. We see this every week during setup and tear down.

If I could give one piece of advice to any portable church, it is this: keep going, even on the challenging days. God is always faithful; He gives the strength and provides the people. Not always easy, but absolutely worth it. While I look forward to the day we can step into an actual church building and focus only on the service, I know I’ll remember these days with gratitude for the way they brought us closer and helped us grow as a church family.

(Equip Church will celebrate its two-year birthday in September 2025.)

About the Writer: Shelly Smith, her husband Brandon, and their three children (Landon, Jordan, and Joshua) are church planters in Hickory, North Carolina. Shelly is a teacher and is currently teaching digital literacy classes to senior citizens. She loves to read, write, travel, and watch football.

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THE WEDDING AT CANA BY: Carol Reid

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JO H N 2:1 -1 2 Not every wedding ends up on America’s Funniest Videos, but almost all of them have a memorable incident — the groomsman faints, the silly aunts are the flower girls, the preacher drops the ring. I’ve even seen both dogs and robots act as ring bearers. Unforgettable moments help us remember the event, usually with a smile. But in the wedding Jesus attended in John 2, the memorable event was quite embarrassing. The host ran out of wine!

Let’s review a minute before we dive deeper into this true story. In Bible times, weddings were a series of events, beginning with the betrothal that legally established the bride and groom as married. The clock started and the groom had up to a year to prepare his bride’s home, while the bride’s family prepared her trousseau and filled her hope chest. Then the groom came (often unannounced) to collect his bride. Parading with the bridesmaids to their new home, they held a simple ceremony to ask God’s blessings, then celebrated. The groom’s father hosted the week-long party where the bride and groom were blessed by guests and gifts and dancing and feasting.

Jesus Goes to Weddings Jesus, His mother, and His disciples were all invited to this wedding in Cana. Obviously, it was a big event!

But the unthinkable happened. The host ran short of refreshments! Hosting a party but not providing enough food or drink for your guests would not only be embarrassing but also socially unacceptable. In Bible times, city officials could fine people for such an offense. Maybe the wedding host underestimated how many would come or how hungry they would be.

Perhaps the party was so fun, no one wanted to leave.

Maybe the host was not wealthy, and his resources gave out. We aren’t told. We only know Mary was aware of the situation and asked Jesus to help.

Was this dilemma any of Mary’s business? We aren’t told (though many commentators speculate she was somehow responsible for the feast preparations). We at least know she was thoughtful about the need, and her response was to present it to Jesus on behalf of the host.

Something to consider: 1. Look up Cana on one of the maps in the back of your 14 TREASURE

Bible. The town is estimated to be five or six miles from Nazareth. We don’t know who was getting married, but what’s your guess? Consider that Jesus and His disciples were there. Consider that Mary was both aware and concerned about this embarrassing, inhospitable failure of the host. Who might the bride have been? (We’ll ask when we get to Heaven to see if you’re right!)

2. Cana and this event are mentioned again in John 4:46. The only other biblical mention of Cana is in John 21:2. Which disciple was from Cana?

3. Some wise commentators have seen this wine shortage as a symbol of the spiritual thirst and need of first-century Judaism. The Old Testament uses wine (but never drunkenness) as an indicator of God’s joyful blessings and provision (Psalm 104:15 and Proverbs 3:10). What would this infer about Jesus’ ministry in the big picture? See Jesus’ statements about new wine in Matthew 9:17 (and parallel passages in Mark 2:22 and Luke 5:37-38).

Before we talk about what happened next, stop and reflect on a couple of important truths. Jesus’ presence at this wedding was an affirmation of the sanctity of marriage. Just as God blessed the first marriage in the Garden of Eden, He approved the practice in New Testament times. Both by His words (Matthew 19:5-6; Mark 10:7-8) and His actions, the Designer of marriage reaffirmed the truth that a man would leave his father and mother and become one with his wife. Jesus never married, but He approved of marriage and upheld its sacred bonds.

Second, Jesus came to the wedding. He came because He was invited (John 2:2). Not everyone reading this is married; that’s clear. But if you are, have you invited Him into your marriage? Have you welcomed Him into your home and your relationship? Have you sought His blessing on the vows you have made to one another?

Here’s the truth: Jesus likes to come to weddings. He wants to be part of your marriage. He wants to heal hurts and restore connections. He wants to give direction and insight for your future. He wants to protect you from temptation and strengthen you for challenges. He longs to be the center of your home, the “three-fold cord” that is not easily broken (Ecclesiastes 4:12). He wants to promote peace, unity, and safety as you build a life together. Even if you’ve been married 75 years, He wants to be invited in. Don’t wait a minute longer. Ask Him to your wedding.

And for those who have never married, here’s what is true from God’s Word. Jesus wants to be part of your family, too. He wants you to be His chosen loved one.

When you welcome Him into your home, He will abide with you, long-term, never leaving you, ever. He is a Husband (Isaiah 54:5), a Father, and a Brother to His people — to you. That’s a promise.

Something to consider: Jesus is never a party crasher. He waits for your invitation. How does Revelation 3:20 picture this truth?

Jesus Responds to Our Needs We get to listen in on a conversation between Jesus and His mother in John 2:3-4. Later in verse 11, we learn this was the first of Jesus’ miracles (signs), which may explain part of the puzzle here. Why did Mary bring this problem to Jesus? What did she expect Him to do about the refreshment shortage? Did she think He would run to the store or quickly return home to their own cupboard? Did she think He had resources to provide more wine? Did she expect a miracle?

Something to consider: 1. Before His public ministry began, do you think Jesus had provided in such ways in His childhood home?

We don’t know, of course. But Mary understood Jesus’ unique role as God’s Son. She had been pondering things in her heart for decades at that point (Luke 2:19), connecting the dots from Scripture, the angels’ words, the prophecies of those in the Temple, the preaching of John the Baptist, and the character of her Son. What else might have been going through Mary’s thoughts?

2. What are Jesus’ first miracles recorded in the other three gospels? Is there any significance to these “opening acts”?

Matthew 8:1-4 Mark 1:21-28 Luke 4:31-37 Jesus responds to His mother in such a way that our twenty-first century reading could easily misinterpret (verse 4). He was not being disrespectful. While addressing a female as “woman” could be said with indignation, it could also be said with great respect and affection, as we assume here. Notice He addresses Mary in this way again at the cross, when He entrusts her care to His disciple John (John 19:26).

Something to consider: Jesus uses “woman” as an address in other places.

Who is He addressing in these gospel passages?

Matthew 15:28 Luke 13:12 John 4:21 John 8:10 John 20:15 Verse 4 is Jesus’ first mention of “His hour,” but we can recognize He was ever conscious of His mission on earth. From His childhood until His final breath, He was under orders from the Heavenly Father, sent to redeem mankind. God’s timing was impeccable.

At just the right time, Jesus came. All history revolves around His completed sacrifice and resurrection. He again spoke of “His hour” in John 17:1 as He prayed for the disciples, recognizing what lay ahead for Him. Mary told the wedding servants to do whatever Jesus told them to do. With the problem she faced, she certainly did two things right. First, she took it straight to Jesus. Let’s make it a practice to do the same. Whatever problem, whatever need, whatever hardship you are facing today, go to Jesus with it. Hand it over. Tell Him what you need. Tell Him what others need. Place it in His almighty, all-knowing, all-powerful hands and let Him handle it.

Second, she encouraged others to obey Him. When we read it this way, it sounds so simple, but we have met the complications of full obedience many times.

Just do what He says. This is acting in faith, not always understanding what He asks of us or why. Obedience rejects human wisdom, turns from popular opinion, and reaches out to risk trusting Him — stepping out of the boat onto choppy waves in the dark. “Trust and obey, for there’s no other way to be happy in Jesus.”

Something to consider: Think of other miracles of Jesus and what He asked people to do in faith. What comes to mind?

Jesus had simple instructions for the servants. Take the six stone waterpots and fill them with water. Yes, stone waterpots are unusual and not easy to carry to the well! But archaeologists have located other examples and recognize their use for ceremonial bathing.

And the servants were to fill them to the very top. This meant no one could add anything else to cause the water to become wine. Most likely, the water was transported from the well and poured into these waterpots; J U LY- S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 5 1 5

people didn’t carry them back and forth. Each one held between 20 and 30 gallons, so let’s just call that 25 gallons each. That’s a lot of trips to the well. “Do whatever He tells you.”

unfair, the assignments are piling up, the coworkers are unengaged, and the paycheck is too skimpy. But when Jesus takes over, the lights come on, and you know the next step to take.

You’ve planned parties. How many people would you have at the party if you needed 150 gallons of punch for refills? No doubt, it was the wedding of the century!

Maybe your church is dying. You’ve taught and invited and swept and sung and given — but you aren’t seeing growth. Your pastor is discouraged, and your kids are complaining. Then Jesus turns it around by moving in and doing what only He can do.

When we ask Jesus to meet our needs, He doesn’t skimp.

He doesn’t do a half-way job. He doesn’t just get by.

He does exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think (Ephesians 3:20). Our cups overflow (Psalm 23:5).

He is a God of plenty. He satisfies the thirsty soul.

We serve a God who specializes in amazing transformations. Don’t ever think the situation is hopeless. Don’t

Something to consider: Check out these verses to see the way God meets our needs:

Jes

Psalm 22:26 Psalm 36:8 Psalm 63:5 Psalm 103:5 Psalm 107:9 Psalm 145:16 Isaiah 44:3 Isaiah 55:1 John 7:37 Revelation 21:6

con

Jesus Saves the Best Until Last The wine tasting began. The servants took some of the liquid from the jars and served it for the approval of the master of the feast or the head caterer. Then the bridegroom had a taste and said, in essence, “Wow!” The natural processes of planting, harvesting, crushing, fermenting, and aging were miraculously overturned. We don’t have any clue about what it looked like or tasted like, but the conclusion was the wine was better than what had been served first.

Jesus makes everything better. We try. We work. We aim for the best. But His touch changes well-water into champagne. He can do what is impossible.

Maybe you’re struggling with parenting. You’ve read the books and listened to the podcasts. You’ve hung chore lists, given stickers, and threatened consequences.

You’ve battled strong wills and bad attitudes and glazed eyes. But when Jesus takes over, you begin to see real improvement.

Maybe your work situation is grueling. The boss is 16 TREASURE

give up. Give it to Him and let Him work a miracle.

Something to consider: Name that miracle! What are some other examples of occasions where God took something like a pot of water and made it much more?

Genesis 1 1 Kings 17:12-16 2 Kings 4:1-7

2 Kings 4:42-44 Matthew 14:15-21 Matthew 15:32-39

That’s what Jesus does. He takes nothing and makes something. He takes little and makes it more than enough. He takes average and makes it extra special. Just give Him what you have. He can do the rest.

This miracle also reminds us that the best is yet to come.

Even if your life is great right now, better days are ahead.

Maybe you have money in the bank and no leaks in the roof, and you love your life…wonderful! But the best is yet to come! For most of us, though, it’s an encouraging truth to latch onto. Heaven is going to be better. The heartaches and headaches will be no more. The issues with your health, your finances, your family situation, your work,

sus’ first mention of “His hour,” recognizes He was ever nscious of His mission on earth.

not the point of John 2, is it? Verse 11 is the key. It’s really all about Jesus. Here’s a glimpse of who He is and why He came. Here’s a peek at His glory and power. This was only the beginning. The spotlight turned to Jesus Christ — God in human flesh — and His earthly mission. The miracles provided confirmation, evidence that He is the Messiah.

His glory as the Sovereign Creator who satisfies our needs was revealed in the kitchen of the wedding feast at Cana.

What was the response of the disciples who witnessed this miracle? Obviously, they were already disciples, following Jesus and listening to His teaching. But this miracle marked a turning point for them, too. “The disciples believed in Him” (verse 11b).

Don’t you imagine them with wide eyes, mouths hanging open, pulses racing when they realized what happened?

They looked at one another with raised eyebrows. They shook their heads, trying to clear the cobwebs. This was more than they expected, more than they could comprehend. Their only response was humble belief. They were in the presence of God. Something to consider: What does John 20:30 say about other signs Jesus did during His earthly ministry?

What about us? When we see the powerful hand of God at work, our faith grows stronger. We may not be standing at the stone pots, but we’ve watched as loved ones went to the altar, made it through surgery, or returned home. We’ve seen relationships restored, hearts mended, peace poured out. We’ve been witnesses to new births — physical and spiritual. We know the power of God to forgive sin and transform lives. We glimpse His glory, and we believe.

your neighborhood, your friendships, your church — all will pass away, and God will give us the most beautiful, brilliant, magnificent, perfect future of all He has prepared for us. Forget average. Forget ordinary. The best is yet to come!

Jesus in the Spotlight The wedding feast was salvaged, and the host’s reputation was protected. The punch was delicious. But that’s

Only Jesus can satisfy our deepest needs. Only Jesus can pay the sin debt we owe. Only Jesus can provide peace and joy that overcomes the circumstances of this world. And our God has given His promise to supply all our needs by His riches in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19). Hallelujah!

About the Writer: Carol Reid lives in Old Hickory, Tennessee, works part-time on the curriculum team at D6 Family Ministry, and regularly serves in the Kids’ Ministry and the Sew Much More lifegroup at The Donelson Fellowship. She enjoys her children and grandchildren, assorted crafts, bargain shopping, and puzzles of all kinds.

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Giggles

BY SARAH SARGENT

Have you ever gotten the giggles at church camp?

If you’ve had the privilege of attending or working at a church camp, your anAbout the Writer: swer is more than likely YES! I have participated in lots of giggle-causing church Sarah Sargent loves to laugh camp stories, but I did not take part in the story I’d like to share. and make others laugh even When Dad was a youth pastor leading church camp, he asked his new stepmom, more. She is a third-generation Ellen, to help chaperone in the girls’ dorm. He went over the standard camp rules member and leader in Free Will making certain she understood them. This camp was in secluded woods, and she Baptist Women’s Ministries. needed to keep the girls from sneaking out. Because of the camp’s location, a few She currently serves as presi- guys stayed awake each night walking the perimeter and surveying the grounds dent of the women’s ministry at from a hillside. Several days into camp, Dad did security detail throughout one Reynoldsburg Free Will Baptist night.

Church and president of Ohio “Jerry, do you see that movement on top of the kitchen roof?” Johnny asked. Dad Free Will Baptist Women’s looked in that direction and noticed the roof seemed to be moving. The men deMinistries. cided to investigate. As they got closer, Johnny began naming teen girls he could see on the roof “attempting to hide.” The last name he called out was Ellen Sargent. Dad’s response was “WHO!?!?!” As they reached the building, Dad called to the girls who all hid and attempted to be silent. Soon giggling turned into squealing, and the girls quickly tried to climb down. Apparently, their presence had not only garnered the attention of security, but also of a few bats who were swooping down on them.

My grandma Ellen started laughing harder but made no move toward getting off the roof. The girls continued climbing down as Dad called for Grandma to come down, too. Still laughing she said, “I can’t.” He said, “Well, you can’t stay up there, so down is the only option left.” She finally came down, still laughing.

Grandma finally confessed that between the bats and laughing at the girls, she inadvertently peed her pants, which, of course, led to more laughter.

Dad eventually got them all ushered back into their dorm; however, before my grandma entered, he asked her, “What happened to making sure they didn’t sneak out?” As if she had prepared and expected to answer this, she said with a smirk, “They didn’t sneak out, I was with them.” My dad just shook his head and walked back to his security duties for the night. The next day he would be calling for clarification of the chaperone’s role.

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Capturing Memories

BY Rebe kah Ta lbot

Oh, how I would have loved to attend the wedding at Cana (John 2:1-2)! Weddings are such joyful occasions. Can you imagine attending one where Jesus was a guest? The happiness of his disciples celebrating, the crowd’s amazement at the miracle performed — how wonderful to see this take place. I’m not sure who this couple was, but I assume they forever felt it an honor that Jesus celebrated with them.

For the past eight years, I have had the honor of capturing such joyful events. Wedding photography was something I stumbled into after a friend asked if I would capture her wedding day. She was very trusting, because I had no previous wedding experience!

However, I was so glad she trusted me with such an honor. Motivated by the joy I experienced on her day, I’ve now served several more couples on one of the most important days in their lives.

Current trends in wedding photography are much different than a few decades ago. Various editing styles, posed portraits, 12-hour coverage days — the

years are long gone when a few portraits of the ceremony and family were sufficient. Full-day photography coverage filled with posed and candid photos is now the common expectation. For a photographer, you are with families all day, walking with them through some of the most intimate moments of their lives.

Purpose and Vision As a Christian, I approach wedding photography differently from my non-believing peers. Primarily, the wedding day is about the couple’s covenant before God. While the florals may be gorgeous, the bride’s dress is stunning, and the reception is full of laughter, the day’s main focus is the marriage covenant. My goal as the photographer is to beautifully display this covenant in a way that honors its significance. While I take many photos outside of the ceremony, each one points to the larger story and the primary purpose of the day. By using the gifts God has given me, I can create beautiful, meaningful photographs celebrating this beautiful covenant.

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Another meaningful way Christians can approach wedding photography is by viewing it as an act of service. Photographers can easily believe a wedding day is about their portfolio or showcasing their talents. But rather than seeing it as a platform for self-promotion, they can approach the day as an opportunity to serve the couple with their gifts.

Photographers should consider: What is meaningful to the couple? How can the gifts I bring best serve them and those they love? What beauty can I showcase that helps tell their story? How does my body language and presence help calm nerves and pinpoint the true meaning of the day?

When focused on serving the couple, the photographer is free to create their best work for the benefit of others.

This allows them to see the needs of others and offer help when needed.

Service and Impact Often, wedding photographers find themselves in scenarios that are outside their responsibilities. Many times I have pinned on boutonnieres, wiped away tears, found a relative, and performed many other odd tasks. These little moments of service allowed my couples to see I care about them. I’m not ‘just’ the wedding photographer filling my portfolio; I am there to serve them in the various ways God allows.

I’ve noticed that you can create better photographs by paying closer attention to those around you. Frequently, the photos a couple loves most are not the ones they expected. It is a special moment caught with a parent or laughing with guests. Family images become especially important after a loved one has passed away.

Having captured a simple but meaningful moment is precious to a grieving family.

Additionally, God has used photography as an avenue for me to befriend and serve families I would not have known otherwise. Wedding days are very personal.

Both couples’ closest family and friends are gathered, and I, a complete stranger, am in their midst all day.

Some couples and families have kept relationships

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with me after the wedding day, which allows for friendships and opens doors to share the Gospel.

Challenges and Rewards Feelings can be overwhelming when responsible for capturing these once-in-a-lifetime moments, and they remind me of my need to rely on God and others for help. God is my provider, whether for more clients, finances, or wisdom. He gives perspective when serving becomes challenging. Confidence in my God-given skills helps me focus on glorifying Him, not on pleasing people.

Practical Advice As a wedding photographer, first and foremost, pray for your couples. Pray before the wedding day, and the days after. Let them know you are rooting for the marriage, not just their wedding day. Approach the day with a servant’s heart. Remember the day isn’t about you and your portfolio. Use your gifts and talents to best capture their day, not for yourself, but to showcase their beautiful covenant before God. Find ways to give back and be generous, whether by taking extra time with them before the wedding day or jumping in to help with something that’s not “your job.” In these ways, you can glorify God and minister to others in a way that points people to Him. About the Writer: Rebekah Talbot is a stay-at-home mother and small business owner. When she’s not chasing one of her young boys, she enjoys spending time at parks, hiking, and making music. Rebekah and her husband, Chris, live with their three sons in Gallatin, Tennessee.

Weddings Around the World

BY Ruth McDonald

“Leaving and cleaving” has happened worldwide since the beginning of time (Genesis 2:24). Wedding customs are one of the most interesting differences in cultures today.

Weddings cost money, and many cultures include some form of monetary exchange during the festivities. Tribal societies maintain the practice of the bride price or dowry, an amount of money or valuable goods to seal the marriage contract. In most developed countries, these customs have become more symbolic than legally binding.

In some cultures, the groom must fill one of his bride’s shoes with money to get a first look at her on the wedding day.

The money dance is a cultural tradition at many wedding receptions in countries like Poland, Greece, and Cuba. Guests give money to the groom to dance with the bride.

In Brazil, the men at a wedding reception take the groom’s necktie and walk around asking for money donations for the new couple. Each donor gets a

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portion of the groom’s tie, which has been cut according to the size of the gift. Also, during the festivities, the bridesmaids carry the bride’s shoes around and ask for money in the same way.

In Spain, there is the custom of “las arras,” which is a set of coins that the bride places in the groom’s hand. He then does the same, symbolizing “what’s mine is yours” from this day forward.

Guests at a Japanese wedding are expected to bring a substantial amount of money to attend the reception. In return, they will receive a souvenir equal to half of the amount they brought.

Wedding foods also take many different forms around the world. We are familiar with the British and American tradition of a multi-tiered cake, but other worldwide treats include the tower of crème puffs (France), dried dates and warm milk (Morocco), powdered sugar cookies (Mexico), meats, nuts, and bread.

In traditional Bulgarian weddings, the “breaking of the bread” ceremony is a significant part of the reception.

The bride’s mother hands a loaf of bread to the newlyweds, who then pull it apart, and whoever gets the larger piece is considered the “boss” of the marriage, symbolizing the leader in the household. (Pictured below are missionaries to Bulgaria, Brenton and Deborah Driscoll, breaking the bread at their wedding ceremony.)

Wedding attire also offers an array of choices. While white dresses, made popular by Queen Victoria in 1840, have become the norm in the West, many other cultures prefer bright, vibrant colors. In many parts of the world, red remains a popular choice, symbolizing life, joy, and celebration.

Japan has embraced Eastern and Western, traditional and current styles in modern wedding customs. Most brides change outfits multiple times during the festivities and wear a white kimono, red kimono, white wedding dress, and ball gown.

No matter the country or wedding tradition, the idea of a man and a woman joining together in a marriage covenant is the same. Every moment of this special time is priceless.

About the Writer: Ruth McDonald is currently serving as Executive Director of Women Active for Christ. Formerly, she and her husband, Donnie, ministered as missionaries in Japan for 38 years. They have four children and four grandchildren.

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September

Feasting in Vain:

When Celebration Becomes Condemnation BY: Tim an d P hy llis Yo rk

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Throughout Scripture, feasting is a recurring theme that often symbolizes celebration, covenant fellowship, and divine blessing. However, the Bible also offers stern warnings about feasts that are corrupt, self-indulgent, or carried out in a manner that dishonors God. These occasions, though seemingly joyful and spiritual on the surface, often mask deeper issues of hypocrisy, idolatry, and rebellion.

This study will explore what Scripture says about dishonoring feasts, showing the serious spiritual danger they bring and God’s call to true worship and holy living.

Feasts Are a Gift of Celebration: God’s Blessings Feasting, in its proper form, is a celebration of God. The Mosaic Law prescribes several feasts, such as the Passover, Feast of Weeks, and Feast of Booths, that call the people to remember God’s acts of redemption, provision, and presence (Leviticus 23).

These feasts were not mere social events but spiritual observances — practices intended for worship and thanksgiving.

In Deuteronomy 16:14-15, God commands joy during the Feast of Tabernacles, saying, “You shall rejoice in your feast…because the LORD your God will bless you in all your produce and in all the work of your hands, so that you will be altogether joyful.” Feasting, when rightly practiced, honors God, promotes unity, and affirms God’s provision.

However, the same structure that brings blessing can become a source of judgment when corrupted. Feasts that are ritual in form but dishonoring in heart and action provoke divine anger rather than favor.

Something to consider: 1. How can you incorporate joy, gratitude, and worship into times of personal celebrations? Consider whether your celebrations (holidays, meals, gatherings) intentionally reflect God’s provision and presence, or if they have become routine or self-centered.

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2. Is your heart aligned with God in your spiritual practices, or have they become rituals lacking true reverence? Examine whether your outward observance of spiritual traditions (like feasting or holiday worship) matches an inward posture of worship, humility, and joy in the Lord.

Feasting Without Righteousness: A Rejected Offering The prophet Amos issues one of the strongest rebukes against empty religious festivals. In Amos 5:21-24, God declares: “I hate, I despise your feasts, and I take no delight in your solemn assemblies. Even though you offer me burnt offerings and grain offerings, I will not accept them; and the peace offerings of your fattened animals, I will not look upon them. Take away from me the noise of your songs; to the melody of your harps I will not listen. But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.”

Here, God condemns Israel’s feasts because they are disconnected from moral obedience. The outward appearance of worship — the singing, sacrifices, and celebrations cannot substitute for lives marked by righteousness. God sees the hypocrisy and is not honored by empty rituals.

This passage reveals a central biblical truth: God is not pleased with worship that is external only.

Worship that ignores mercy or indulges in sin is offensive to a holy God. When feasts become a cover for disobedience, they cease to be acts of worship and become acts of defiance.

Something to consider: 1. Are you honoring God with your worship and daily life, or are you separating your spiritual activity from personal obedience? Reflect on whether your spiritual practices align with a life of integrity, justice, and compassion.

2. Do you participate in worship or church activities out of genuine love for God, or to maintain appearances, or soothe your conscience? Consider your

motives and whether your heart is truly engaged in seeking God’s will through your worship.

tion of true worship, a mixture of idolatry and moral debauchery.

3. Is there any hypocrisy in your life that you need to confess — areas where you outwardly honor God but inwardly or privately walk in disobedience? Be honest about any disconnect between what you profess publicly and how you live privately.

God’s response is swift and severe. He tells Moses, “They have turned aside quickly out of the way that I commanded them” (Exodus 32:8). Thousands die in judgment, and God’s anger burns against Israel.

The lesson here is stark: Not all religious festivals are acceptable to God, even if they bear His name.

Feasts rooted in false worship are spiritual treason.

The Golden Calf: A Feast of Idolatry One of the earliest and most vivid examples of a feast that dishonors God is found in Exodus 32. As Moses ascends Mount Sinai to receive the law, the people grow impatient and demand that Aaron make them gods. Aaron crafts a golden calf, and the people proclaim: “This is your god, O Israel, that brought you out of the land of Egypt!” (Exodus 32:4) Aaron then builds an altar and declares a feast “to the LORD” (Yahweh). The people rise early, offer sacrifices, and engage in revelry. This event, which appears to be a religious festival, is actually a distor-

Something to consider: 1. Are you ever tempted to reshape your view of God into something more convenient or comfortable to suit your desires or timeline? Reflect on whether impatience, fear, or cultural pressure leads you to compromise or distort your view of God. 2. Do you ever justify sinful behavior by labeling it as worship or attaching God’s name to something He has not endorsed? Consider if you’ve ever cloaked selfishness, idolatry, or moral compromise in biblical language or activity.

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3. What “golden calves” might you be allowing in your life — things you prioritize, trust in, or celebrate more than God Himself? Examine your heart for idols: people, possessions, achievements, or habits that have taken God’s rightful place.

Something to consider:

Isaiah’s Rebuke: A Show of Religion

2. Do you equate church attendance, prayer, or activity with righteousness, while neglecting justice, mercy, or personal repentance? Consider if your faith expression is rooted in a transformed heart or simply a routine habit.

The prophet Isaiah delivers a similar indictment against the feasts and rituals of Israel in Isaiah 1:11-15: “What to me is the multitude of your sacrifices?” says the Lord; “I have had enough of burnt offerings of rams and the fat of well-fed beasts; I do not delight in the blood of bulls, or of lambs, or of goats. When you come to appear before me, who has required of you this trampling of my courts? Bring no more vain offerings; incense is an abomination to me. New moon and Sabbath and the calling of convocations — I cannot endure iniquity and solemn assembly. Your new moons and your appointed feasts my soul hates; they have become a burden to me; I am weary of bearing them.

When you spread out your hands, I will hide my eyes from you; even though you make many prayers, I will not listen; your hands are full of blood.”

God’s rejection of their feasts is not because the ceremonies themselves were wrong — they were commanded. The problem lies in the hearts and lives of the worshippers. Their hands are “full of blood” (verse 15), and their supposed devotion is a lie.

Isaiah continues, calling the people to repentance: “Wash yourselves; make yourselves clean; remove the evil of your deeds from before my eyes; cease to do evil, learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause” (Isaiah 1:16-17).

The clear message is this: Ceremonial observance without moral integrity offends God. A feast that pretends to honor Him while the participants persist in sin is a form of mockery.

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1. Are you offering God outward acts of worship while knowingly holding on to sin? Reflect on whether your spiritual practices are sincere or a cover for unaddressed disobedience.

3. Is there an area of your life where you are going through the motions spiritually, hoping God will be pleased, even though you know He is calling you to real change? Ask yourself if there’s a specific behavior, attitude, or injustice you need to confront and repent of today.

Jesus’ Confrontation with Hypocritical Feasting The Gospels also reflect this is an issue for all people. Jesus often confronted the religious elite of His day, who used feasts and religious customs as a veil for pride and hypocrisy. Jesus attends a feast hosted by a Pharisee. He watches how guests pick the places of honor, revealing their self-exaltation.

He tells them to invite the poor, crippled, lame, and blind to their feasts if they want to be blessed (Luke 14:13-14).

The implication is their feasts, though formal and religious, lacked true humility and charity. They were self-serving, not God-honoring.

In Matthew 23:27–28, Jesus calls the scribes and Pharisees “whitewashed tombs…full of dead people’s bones.” He said that they appeared righteous on the outside, but inwardly they were hypocrites.

This condemnation applies to all feasting or celebrations that project pietism but lack inner transformation. When the feast is for appearance, status, or self-glorification, it becomes a spiritual danger.

Something to consider: 1. Do you use church or social gatherings to elevate yourself in the eyes of others, rather than to honor God and serve others? Reflect on your motivations when participating in or hosting celebrations — are they driven by humility or self-interest?

2. Are you more concerned with how you appear outwardly than with the condition of your heart before God? Consider whether you’re investing more in appearances than in genuine spiritual transformation and obedience.

The Church at Corinth: Profaning the Lord’s Table In the New Testament, 1 Corinthians 11:17-34 gives a sobering account of a feast that dishonors God — the Lord’s Supper itself. Communion is given to us by the Lord to commemorate, celebrate, and anticipate.

Paul rebukes the Corinthian church for turning this precious reminder into an occasion for division, gluttony, and drunkenness: “For in eating, each one goes ahead with his own meal. One goes hungry, another gets drunk. What! Do you not have houses to eat and drink in?” (verses 21–22) Paul warns that those who eat and drink “in an unworthy manner” are guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord (verse 27). He even connects this abuse with physical consequences: “That is why many of you are weak and ill, and some have died” (verse 30).

This passage shows the seriousness of treating holy things lightly. Even a divinely instituted feast like the Lord’s Supper becomes dangerous when approached irreverently. Feasting without discernment, humility, and unity invites God’s judgment.

Something to consider: 1. Do you approach the Lord’s Supper with reverence, examining your heart and relationships before partaking? Reflect on whether you truly prepare spiritually for communion or treat it as a routine ritual.

2. Do you honor the meaning of communion by living a life that reflects gratitude for Christ’s sacrifice? Ask yourself whether your daily life displays the humility, repentance, and love that communion symbolizes.

The Wedding Feast and the Excluded In Jesus’ parables, the theme of the feast often represents the Kingdom of God. In Matthew 22:1-14, Jesus tells the parable of a wedding feast where invited guests refuse to come. Some mock, some murder the messengers, and others are too busy. The king is angry and pronounces judgment. Later, one guest is found without proper wedding garments and is cast out.

This parable highlights that not all who attend the feast are accepted. Feasting in the Kingdom is reserved for those who are clothed in righteousness — those who truly honor the King. Participation without transformation leads to exclusion.

Something to consider: Do you take seriously the holiness of God’s Kingdom, preparing your heart and life to honor the King in all you do? Ask yourself if your life reflects the reverence and readiness expected of a guest at the King’s feast.

The Danger of Mixed Feasting in Revelation The Book of Revelation provides a final and intense warning. Jesus rebukes the churches in Pergamum and Thyatira for tolerating teachers who seduce believers to eat food sacrificed to idols and commit sexual immorality (Revelation 2:14, 20).

The issue here is not merely dietary but idolatrous participation in pagan feasts. These feasts, common in Greco-Roman culture, often involved temple banquets and moral compromise. Gwyn Pugh in the Randall House Commentary on the Book of Revelation states, “some taught that participation in these local festivals that indulged in sexual immorality with temple prostitutes, or confessed Caesar as Lord, was acceptable, perhaps even a necessary evil. They J U LY- S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 5 2 7

said there was no other choice if they wanted to survive economically.” Some used a wrong view of Christian liberty as an excuse to participate.

The danger here is the turning away from Christian identity to pagan cultural practices. This form of feasting is not only offensive but spiritually deadly — it entangles believers in idolatry and adultery against God. The previously referenced commentary says that “recent research points out that, although the number of professing Christians in America has increased, there has not been a corresponding change in behavior. Christians are not really different from their unbelieving neighbors.”

Jesus calls the churches to repentance and warns of severe consequences, including divine judgment (Revelation 2:16, 22–23).

Something to consider: 1. Are you compromising your faith by participating in cultural practices or environments that conflict with God’s standards, even if they seem necessary for success or acceptance? Reflect on whether you’re justifying morally or spiritually harmful choices for the sake of comfort, career, or belonging.

2. Do you use Christian liberty as an excuse to blur the lines between holiness and worldliness? Ask yourself if you’re distorting the grace of God to tolerate behavior that dishonors Him.

Principles for God-Honoring Feasting To avoid the dangers of dishonoring feasts, Scripture points to several principles: 1. Holiness Before Rituals – God desires clean hands and pure hearts over outward rituals (Psalm 24:3-4).

2. Justice, Mercy, and Walk humbly with God – Worship must be linked with ethical living (Micah 6:6–8).

3. Christ-Centeredness – All feasting must point to Christ, not self (1 Corinthians 10:31).

4. Spiritual Discernment – Believers must guard against cultural compromise (Romans 12:2).

5. Unity and Humility – Feasting should build up the body of Christ and not create division (1 Corinthians 11:33).

Feasts can be expressions of worship, fellowship, and joy when they are rooted in truth, righteousness, and humility. But when corrupted by sin, pride, idolatry, or hypocrisy, they become spiritually dangerous. The biblical witness is clear: God despises religious gatherings that dishonor His holiness, even if they bear His name.

From the golden calf to the Corinthian abuse of the Lord’s Supper, Scripture testifies that dishonoring feasts can provoke divine judgment. The call to the Church today is to examine our celebrations, ensure our worship is authentic, and offer to God what He truly desires: hearts that walk humbly and glorify Him in spirit and in truth.

About the Writers: Tim and Phyllis York live in Smyrna, Tennessee, where he pastors two churches: The Grove in Smyrna and Rejoice Free Will Baptist Church in Antioch. Phyllis is the administrative assistant at Women Active For Christ. Married for 46 years, they enjoy spending time with their grandchildren.

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Let’s Feast: I’m A Christian

BY Cookie Vazquez

Hi, my name is Cookie Vazquez. I am married to Francisco Vazquez, and we have one daughter. I rededicated my life to Christ on December 13, 1998, and serve at Cross Church in Bakersfield, California, under Dr. Mark Harrison, pastor.

Now, being Hispanic, it’s a given that, in an instant, this Mexican woman can turn a mundane weekday into the most festive day just by inviting a few cousins. In my case, that includes around 23 first cousins — plus their spouses, children, children’s spouses, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, approximately 160 family members enjoying a spontaneous feast. We just love a day filled with festivities!

God’s people also had festivals that He implemented, times set apart for the Israelites to come together to worship, sacrifice, and remember. They were to love God above all and love their neighbors as themselves. Festivals like Passover, the Day of Atonement, and Pentecost were joyous times that pointed to Jesus and a new covenant. Let’s look at a festival in Amos 5:21.

During this time, God warned His people how much He hated the way they celebrated the festivals. Their external expressions did not reflect internal devotion. In treating other people terribly, they were stealing from the poor, charging outrageous prices, and enslaving those who couldn’t pay their debts. Some Israelites became wealthy and selfishly hoarded for themselves. Adopting the traditions and gods of their captors, they pretended to worship the true God and even celebrated some festivals, but did not keep the law of a loving J U LY- S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 5 2 9

God with all their hearts. They dishonored God by going their own way and not using those festival days as true days of joy.

Not long after I rededicated my life to God, there was a time when the festival of my life was displeasing to Him. He hated it. The first four years after my dedication were a time of basking in God’s forgiveness and love, rejoicing in all He had forgiven.The relief I felt was overwhelming. The gifts and blessings God granted me were undeserved.

I married at 30, when I thought that possibility had long passed. God sustained us even though we had little to no money. While I was unemployed, He paid off our bills. I remember it as the happiest I had ever been in my adult life. He showed me unbelievable miracles during a time when most people would have given up. But after a while, those blessings were not enough – I had forgotten what God had done for me. Instead, I wanted more: a big house, a nice car, and expensive clothes – all the things the world could offer. I felt I deserved it; I was serving God! Even though I was teaching Sunday school and youth group, driving the church van, and accomplishing all that was “required” of me, (teaching, serving, leading, and tithing), why wasn’t God blessing me with what I wanted? But, like one commentator said, “There is nothing more hateful than hypocrisy.”

I thought that showing up to church and doing the “right” things meant God had to bless me, and I wanted to store up everything this world had to offer.

But God, in His graciousness and loving-kindness, gave me my 4,000-square-foot house — without rent or a mortgage — a job, expensive clothes, and accessories (can’t forget the accessories!). So good…until it wasn’t. I wanted more. God was very patient with me as I kept on sinning. Blinded by my pride and selfishness, I could not see the damage I was causing my family, or the heartbreak I was causing God. Eventually, the daily duties of such a big house wore me out. So, God took the house, tore it down, and built a freeway through it. My dream car was constantly in the shop, and my credit cards were maxed out. By this time, we had a daughter, Elena, and I was not the mother she needed or deserved.

Amid all this madness and confusion, my behavior was not pleasing to God, but He was still faithful. He sustained us, protected us, and repeatedly offered me chances to repent and reconcile my relationship with Him. In Amos 5, He did the same for His people. As expressed in verses 14 and 15, we see that we should pursue good and not evil, hate evil, and love good. Our worship begins in our hearts, minds, and actions, yet we continue to enjoy festivals and traditions on our own terms, hoping God will accept our external devotion and save us from His disapproval. But we cannot escape the wrath of God. Yes, wrath! If we escape one judgment, another will be waiting (verse 19).

God wants the festival of our lives to be continual: a daily joy, a deep love for Him, and a sincere love for our neighbors and ourselves. He desires internal and external devotion. True worship coming from our hearts, minds, and actions. God wants to show us how to balance the temporal with the eternal. Our sacrificial God just wants to love us, and He wants us to keep His commandments and apply His Word to our lives every day.

He wants us to share Jesus with others so they, too, may live lives full of God-filled festivals.

Remember, my friends — it’s not about you. It’s about God and others.

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MÁS D U LCE QUE LA M I EL – EL BANQUETE DE LA PALABRA – For English Translation go to https://www.wnac.org/treasure/treasure-magazine/

J U LY- S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 5 3 1

Introducción: Una invitación a sentarse a la mesa celestial Imagina llegar a una mesa hermosa, perfectamente preparada, donde cada plato contiene alimentos exquisitos, capaces de saciar la más profunda hambre.

Así es la Palabra de Dios. En un mundo que nos ofrece distracciones y “alimentos” temporales, se nos invita a alimentar nuestras almas con algo real y duradero.

La Palabra no solo instruye, sino que transforma, sana y refresca, siendo el pan diario indispensable para una vida de victoria espiritual.

En este estudio exploraremos cómo la Palabra de Dios es “más dulce que la miel”, una experiencia que va mucho más allá del mero conocimiento intelectual.

Se trata de una vivencia en la que, al ser incorporada en nuestro vivir diario, nos permite caminar en poder, sabiduría y gozo. Cada pasaje desde el Salmo 19 hasta el Salmo 63– nos muestra facetas del banquete divino que se nos ha ofrecido, y nos reta a dejar que nuestra alma se alimente de este manjar espiritual.

A lo largo de este estudio, se invita a cada mujer a descubrir las múltiples dimensiones de la Palabra: como fuente de transformación, alimento vital y medio para cultivar un hambre sagrada que nos lleve a una comunión constante con Dios. La invitación es clara: detén por un momento lo que estés haciendo, abre tu corazón y déjate nutrir por aquel alimento que solo el Señor sabe preparar.

La Palabra como Alimento que Transforma A. Una lámpara para el camino y medicina para el alma (Salmo 19:7-10) El salmista declara:“La ley de Jehová es perfecta, que convierte el alma; el testimonio de Jehová es fiel, que hace sabio al sencillo...” (Salmo 19:7).

Estas palabras nos revelan que la Palabra de Dios no es simplemente una colección de textos antiguos, sino una fuente viva de transformación. Cada frase y cada verso actúan como una luz que ilumina nuestro camino en la oscuridad y como medicina que sana las heridas del espíritu.

1. Conversión del alma: La Palabra tiene el poder de cambiar lo más profundo 32 TREASURE

de nuestro ser. Cuando vivimos conforme a sus enseñanzas, se ablanda el corazón, se liberan patrones de pensamiento dañinos y se restablece la comunión con Dios. Este cambio interior se refleja en nuestras relaciones, decisiones y actitudes.

2. Sabiduría para el sencillo: No se requiere gran erudición para beneficiarse de este banquete. La Palabra está al alcance de todas, y su mensaje es claro para quien desee aprender. La sabiduría que proviene de Dios supera cualquier conocimiento humano, dotándonos de discernimiento para tomar decisiones en medio de un mundo confuso y cambiante.

3. Alegría y claridad de visión: Leer y meditar en la Palabra de Dios no es una tarea monótona, sino una experiencia que llena de gozo al corazón. Así como un rayo de luz ilumina y revela lo que está en penumbra, la Palabra abre nuestros ojos espirituales, permitiéndonos ver la voluntad de Dios y el propósito para cada día.

Reflexión Práctica: • ¿Cómo ha impactado la lectura de la Biblia en tu vida diaria?

• ¿Puedes identificar momentos en que la Palabra te haya dado dirección o consuelo?

• Comienza cada lectura pidiendo a Dios que transforme tu mente y te guíe a vivir conforme a sus preceptos.

B. La Permanencia de un Alimento Eterno A diferencia de lo pasajero, la Palabra de Dios es inmutable y eterna. Mientras las modas, ideas y filosofías humanas se desvanecen o son cambiantes el mensaje de Cristo sigue vigente y exacto. La experiencia de saborearla nos conduce a una vida fundamentada en verdades inalterables que nos brindan seguridad y paz en tiempos de incertidumbre.

• Consistencia en medio del cambio: Cuando el mundo parece girar sin rumbo, la Palabra se mantiene firme, recordándonos que hay una verdad que no varía y que nos sostiene a pesar de cualquier tormenta.

• Nutrición diaria: Al igual que necesitamos alimentos diarios para mantener la salud, nuestro espíritu anhela el alimen-

to espiritual que solo la Palabra puede proporcionar.

Establecer tiempos regulares de lectura y reflexión es vital para construir una vida espiritualmente rica y balanceada.

Ejercicio Práctico: Reserva un momento cada mañana o cada noche para leer un pasaje específico, meditar en él y orar, pidiendo que su verdad se haga realidad en tu vida.

Comer la Palabra: Una Experiencia de Apropiación Personal A. El Acto de “Comer” la Palabra (Jeremías 15:16) Jeremías nos ofrece una imagen poderosa al decir: “Fueron halladas tus palabras, y yo las comí; y tu palabra me fue por gozo y por alegría de mi corazón.”

Este versículo nos invita a ver la Palabra de Dios no solo como algo para leer, sino para internalizar profundamente. Comer implica apropiarse, digerir y transformar el alimento en energía vital. Al “comer” la Palabra, permitimos que ella actúe en cada célula de nuestro ser.

1 .La Búsqueda Activa: Debemos buscar a Dios con un anhelo sincero, sin esperar que la Palabra se imponga por sí sola, sino buscándola en momentos de soledad, en medio del silencio y en una comunión íntima.

2. La Apropiación: Encontrar estos versículos o enseñanzas no es suficiente; debemos guardarlos en nuestro corazón, memorizarlos y permitir que sus verdades se arraiguen en nuestra identidad.

3. El Deleite en el Banquete: La Palabra no es un deber, sino una fuente de gozo y satisfacción. Al aprender a “comer” lo que Dios nos ofrece, experimentamos una alegría que trasciende nuestras circunstancias, llenando nuestro ser de paz y regocijo.

Herramientas para “comer” la Palabra: • Lectura Meditativa: En lugar de avanzar rápidamente, elige un versículo, léelo lentamente y reflexiona sobre su significado. Escribe tus impresiones y ora al respecto.

• Diario Espiritual: Lleva un cuaderno donde registres las “porciones” de la Palabra que recibes. Este diario te servirá para recordar

momentos de revelación y crecimiento espiritual.

• Memorización: Escoge pasajes que te impacten y repítelos varias veces al día. Con el tiempo, se convertirán en parte natural de tu ser, guiándote en tus decisiones.

Ejercicio Práctico: Antes de dormir, repasa mentalmente lo que has “comido” durante el día; agradece a Dios por esa provisión espiritual y pídele que te ayude a aplicarla en cada aspecto de tu vida.

B. El Dulzor de la Obediencia: Transformar la Palabra en Testimonio El profeta Ezequiel recibió un mandato inusual: se le ofreció un rollo que debía comer, y descubrió que era dulce como la miel. Este episodio ilustra que la Palabra, aunque a veces exigente, tiene un final dulce cuando se obedece. Comer la Palabra no solo es un deleite interno, sino el primer paso para ponerla en acción.

1. El Gozo de la Obediencia: La dulzura experimentada simboliza la bendición que acompaña a quienes obedecen la voz de Dios. No se trata de una obediencia servil, sino de una respuesta amorosa a un Dios que se preocupa profundamente por cada aspecto de nuestra vida.

2. De la Experiencia a la Acción: Tras digerir la Palabra, Ezequiel debía proclamarla y vivirla en su ministerio. Esto nos enseña que el banquete espiritual no se disfruta en soledad; cuando estamos bien alimentadas, estamos llamadas a compartir ese manjar transformador con quienes nos rodean.

Ejercicio Práctico:: • ¿Qué enseñanzas de la Biblia has recibido recientemente y que aún no has aplicado en tu vida?

• ¿Cómo puedes compartir este deleite espiritual en tu entorno?

• Comprométete a identificar pasos prácticos para vivir conforme a lo que Dios te ha comunicado.

Ejercicio Comunitario: Organiza un pequeño grupo de estudio con otras mujeres para compartir testimonios sobre cómo la Palabra ha transformado sus vidas. La experiencia compartida fortalece la fe y multiplica el impacto del banquete espiritual.

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Cultivando un Hambre Sagrada: La Bienaven- la comunión con otras hermanas en la fe fortalece tu camino y enriquece tu experiencia. turanza de los Hambrientos (Mateo 5:6) A. ¿Qué Significa Tener “Hambre y Sed de Justicia”?

Jesús declara en el Sermón del Monte:“Bienaventurados los que tienen hambre y sed de justicia, porque ellos serán saciados.” (Mateo 5:6) Esta bienaventuranza enseña que la sed de justicia— esa profunda necesidad de vivir conforme a la voluntad de Dios—es algo honroso.

1. Reconocimiento de la Necesidad Espiritual: Una mujer que reconoce su vacío interno sabe que los placeres temporales no satisfacen; anhela el alimento eterno que está en la Palabra de Dios. Este anhelo es el motor que impulsa una búsqueda constante de lo divino.

2. Búsqueda Activa y Constante: Tener hambre de justicia exige compromiso diario: orar, meditar y buscar la guía del Espíritu Santo en cada situación, por pequeña que sea.

3. La Promesa de Saciedad: Jesús asegura que quienes tienen este hambre serán saciados, manifestándose en una plenitud espiritual que se traduce en paz interior, gozo y fortaleza para enfrentar las pruebas de la vida.

Herramientas para Cultivar el Hambre Espiritual: • Tiempo a Solas: Reserva un espacio diario, aunque breve, para retirarte y buscar el rostro de Dios en oración y meditación.

Quizás el día pueda resultar un tanto ajetreado pero como siempre comparto, reserva ese tiempito al menos para leer o escuchar una porción de ese alimento que es el que nos sostendrá ante cada situación del día, la vida es muy complicada ya por naturaleza y si no estamos alimentados como debe ser será muy difícil enfrentar cada día.

• Meditación Estructurada: Elige un versículo o pasaje y medita detenidamente sobre lo que te dice acerca de tus anhelos y deseos.

• Oración Perseverante: Dialoga sinceramente con Dios, pidiéndole que transforme tu hambre espiritual en un deseo activo de vivir en justicia y verdad.

• Diálogo con Otras Mujeres: Comparte tus luchas, victorias y anhelos espirituales; 34 TREASURE

Ejercicio Práctico:: Lleva un “diario de hambre espiritual” en el que anotes cada día lo que sientes que te falta y cómo Dios, a través de Su Palabra, va llenando esos vacíos. Observa el cambio progresivo en tu corazón y reconoce las veces en que has sido saciada.

B. El Alma Saciada: Abundancia que Transciende las Circunstancias El Salmo 107 nos recuerda:“Porque sacia al alma menesterosa, y llena de bien al alma hambrienta.”

Esta promesa se extiende incluso en tiempos difíciles.

Cuando el alma se alimenta de la Palabra, se fortalece para resistir la sequía de las pruebas, desilusiones o adversidades.

1. Plenitud de la Verdad: Una mujer que deleita en la Palabra aprende a ver belleza y esperanza, transformando el conocimiento en una vivencia que bendice y cambia incluso las circunstancias más adversas.

2. El Poder Restaurador de la Palabra: Así como la miel endulza y da fuerza, la Palabra restaura la esperanza, consuela y guía, impulsándote a perseverar con fe.

3. Seguridad de una Comunión Estable: Vivir alimentada espiritualmente te da una fortaleza interna que se refleja en la forma en que enfrentas los retos y amas a los demás.

Ejercicio Práctico: • Lista de Gratitud Espiritual: Cada día, anota tres momentos en los que sientas que la Palabra te ha llenado y sustentado, cuando lo hagas te darás cuenta de todos los detalles y cuidado que tiene Dios con nosotros a través de la palabra.

• Compartir Testimonios: Comparte cómo la Palabra ha impactado tu vida en pequeños grupos o de forma personal para fortalecer tu fe.

• Renovar Compromisos: Usa la lectura de los Salmos para reafirmar tu compromiso con la fidelidad de Dios, recordándote que Su amor te sostiene en todo momento.

• Reflexión: “Como de meollo y de grosura será saciada mi alma…”

(Salmo 63:5) nos muestra la total satisfacción que se experimenta al confiar plenamente en Dios, llenándonos de un amor inagotable, paz y protección.

3. Momentos de Adoración: Integra en tu tiempo de estudio momentos de alabanza y meditación. Canciones basadas en los Salmos o himnos inspiradores pueden enriquecer y profundizar tu conexión con la Palabra.

De la Teoría a la Práctica: Transformando la Alimentación Espiritual en un Estilo de Vida

C. Resultados Esperados: Mujeres Transformadas por el Banquete Divino Al comprometerte a alimentarte diariamente de la Palabra, experimentarás una transformación interna que se reflejará en cada aspecto de tu vida: • Renovación Interior: La lectura constante y meditada de la Biblia renueva el espíritu, dándote una perspectiva celestial y llena de esperanza.

• Testimonio Vivencial: Vivir conforme a lo que has “comido” de la Palabra convierte tu vida en un testimonio vivo del amor y la fidelidad de Dios.

• Crecimiento en la Fe: Con cada experiencia de saciedad espiritual, encuentras fuerzas para enfrentar los desafíos cotidianos, manteniéndote firme en la fe y en el amor de Cristo.

A. La Importancia de Establecer Hábitos Diarios Para que la Palabra deje de ser solo un estudio académico y se convierta en un motor transformador, es fundamental establecer hábitos diarios que la integren en nuestro vivir.

• Plan de Lectura Diario: Diseña un horario que se ajuste a tus responsabilidades y dedica de 15 a 30 minutos diarios a la lectura y meditación en la Biblia, combinándolo con oración, puedes reforzar textos bíblicos que se usaron en la predicación de la semana en la iglesia.

• Espacios de Reflexión: Al final del día, repasa lo leído y medita sobre cómo esos textos pueden influir en tus decisiones y relaciones.

• Comunión con Otras Mujeres: Comparte este camino de fe en grupo; el intercambio de experiencias y perspectivas enriquecerá tu caminar espiritual. En nuestra iglesia nos reunimos todos los domingos un grupo de mujeres a orar por distintas peticiones y a compartir testimonios, es de suma importancia el estar conectadas unas con otras porque servimos de inspiración a otras y otras sirven de inspiración a nosotras.

B. Herramientas Prácticas para Transformar la Lectura en un Banquete Vivo 1. Diario de Estudio: Lleva un cuaderno especial donde registres ideas, preguntas y aplicaciones prácticas de cada lectura. Este diario será testigo de tu crecimiento espiritual. Estas ideas o preguntas las puedes compartir con el grupo al que pertenezcas o con tus lideres espirituales.

2. Recursos Complementarios: Además de la lectura directa de la Palabra, utiliza devocionales, meditaciones o aplicaciones fieles a la verdad bíblica para profundizar tu entendimiento.

Conclusión: Sentirse Plena en el Banquete de la Palabra La invitación es clara: Dios ha preparado un banquete celestial para cada una de nosotras, un manjar “más dulce que la miel”.

No permitas que las distracciones del mundo desvíen tu atención de lo que verdaderamente nutre tu alma.

Cada versículo, cada enseñanza, es una oportunidad para crecer, sanar y transformarte.

Visualiza tu vida como una gran celebración en la mesa del Señor: reconociendo el valor de Su Palabra, dejando que te transforme y compartiendo ese deleite con quienes te rodean. No es necesario ser perfecta; lo esencial es tener un deseo sincero de buscar y vivir con J U LY- S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 5 3 5

forme a la verdad.

Cada mañana, al despertar, invita al Espíritu Santo a guiarte en este banquete. Cada noche, agradece por cada porción recibida, afirmando en tu corazón que has sido saciada. Así, tu vida se llenará de un amor inagotable, una paz que trasciende todo entendimiento y una sabiduría que ilumina incluso las situaciones más difíciles.

Ejercicio Práctico:: 1. ¿Cómo describirías tu relación actual con la Palabra de Dios? Reflexiona sobre los momentos en que la Biblia te ha guiado o consolado.

2. ¿Qué hábitos puedes establecer para “comer” la Palabra cada día? Piensa en dedicar unos minutos cada mañana o noche a una lectura meditativa y oración.

3. ¿En qué áreas de tu vida sientes más sed de justicia y verdad? Identifica esos momentos y considera cómo la Palabra puede llenar esos vacíos.

4. ¿Cómo puedes compartir este manjar espiritual en tu comunidad? Evalúa la posibilidad de iniciar un grupo de estudio o simplemente compartir palabras edificantes con amigas o familiares.

5. ¿Qué pasajes o versículos han sido especialmente dulces para tu alma? Haz una lista de esos versículos y medita sobre el significado que han tenido en diferentes etapas de tu vida.

Un Llamado Final: Vive el Banquete Querida hermana, la Palabra de Dios es una invitación viva a sentarte a la mesa del Altísimo. Al aprender a “comer” sus verdades, te transformarás en una mujer plena, capaz de enfrentar cualquier desafío y de irradiar en cada aspecto de tu vida el gozo y la paz que solo Cristo puede ofrecer.

Visualiza cada lectura como un manjar, cada meditación como un sorbo de agua viva. Permite que la Palabra haga de tu alma un terreno fértil donde brote la esperanza y se arraigue un amor duradero. Que cada día sea una oportunidad para renovar tu compromiso de buscar al Señor con hambre y sed, convirtiéndote en una mujer indomable en la fe y en testigo vivo de la fidelidad infinita de nuestro Dios.

Herramientas Prácticas y Recursos para Profundizar • Agenda de Lectura Personalizada: 36 TREASURE

Diseña una agenda semanal que reserve tiempos específicos para la lectura, el diario y la oración.

• Lista de Versículos “Dulces”: Crea un listado de aquellos versículos que han dejado huella en tu corazón y recurre a él en momentos de necesidad.

• Grupo de Estudio o Mentoría: Forma o únete a un grupo pequeño de mujeres comprometidas con crecer en la fe; el compañerismo fortalece el caminar espiritual.

• Espacios de Adoración y Reflexión: Integra momentos de alabanza y meditación en tu rutina diaria para profundizar tu conexión con la Palabra.

• Testimonios y Ejemplos de Vida Recuerda aquellas ocasiones en que un pasaje te cambió la perspectiva o te dio la fuerza necesaria para seguir adelante en medio de dificultades. Compartir tus testimonios no solo fortalece tu caminar, sino que también inspira a otras a buscar lo mismo.

Conclusión Final El banquete de la Palabra es una invitación de amor: reconecta con lo esencial, dejando atrás las migajas del mundo para llenarte del alimento eterno que solo Dios ofrece. En un mundo que celebra lo superficial, tú eres llamada a algo mucho más profundo y trascendente.

La Palabra es el alimento que transforma, reconforta, ilumina y libera.

Que este estudio te impulse a cultivar un hambre incesante por la justicia, a buscar la sabiduría que solo se encuentra en el conocimiento de Dios y a vivir cada día como una celebración de Su infinita gracia. Que tu corazón se regocije con cada lectura y que tu vida sea testimonio vivo del deleite y el poder del banquete divino.

Que seas bendecida, fortalecida y siempre saciada en el banquete de la Palabra de nuestro Señor.

Sobre la escritora: Wandaliz Nevares ha sido una pieza clave del ministerio de la iglesia “Jesús es el Centro” en Guaynabo durante 16 años. Junto con su esposo, el pastor Wilberto Moreno, ha criado a sus dos hijos y ha tocado la vida de muchas personas con su dedicación.

Además, Wanda dirige un grupo de oración y brinda apoyo a muchas mujeres de su comunidad.

Just Being Ruthful*

BY Ruth McDonald

“Those lazy-hazy-crazy days of summer” are upon us, or so the old song claims. I don’t know about you, but my days don’t feel very lazy to me. More like “crazy busy” with celebrations and occasions of all kinds — graduations, weddings, family vacations, the Free Will Baptist National Convention, etc. I vaguely remember being a kid, lying lazily in the grass and gazing up at the clouds. But those days are long gone. Sigh.

As women, we are responsible for many of the summer festivities, and we are most definitely not allowed to be lazy at this time of year. Receptions, parties, gifts, menus, decorations, guest lists, reservations, troubleshooting…women typically handle it all — always have and always will.

In this issue of Treasure, we are looking into biblical accounts of feasts, festivities, and weddings, and I’m excited about the detail we’ve uncovered in our Bible studies. It has been interesting to see how the Bible relates to our modern lives as we hear from our writers about their involvement in parallel activities today.

I miss those lazy summer days lying in the grass. But David the shepher king reminds me in Psalm 23 that He makes me lie down in green pastures.

How fun is that? Even as I scurry around planning and coordinating events for those I love, God “leads me beside still waters” and “restores my soul.”

I may be fretting over table settings and menus, but He “prepares a table before me.” As I take time to breathe and sit with Him, my cup overflows.

“*Ruthful is an archaic English word (the opposite of ruthless) meaning “full of compassion.”

My prayer for you is that you remember to be His guest, receiving His gracious hospitality for your soul. As our theme verse reminds us, He truly does “satisfy the longing soul” (Psalm 107:9).

Do you know the worship song that repeats “His goodness is running after me”? Those words are a very accurate translation of Psalm 23:6, “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life.” He pursues you, stays close beside you, and surrounds you with His grace.

Now that is a reason to celebrate!

Ruth J U LY- S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 5 3 7

Celebrating

90 YEARS of Women’s Ministry!

WNAC organized in June 1935, six months before the National Association of Free Will Baptists came into being. Since that time, WNAC has been essential to denominational ministry, supporting missions and church planting, colleges, and young people. WNAC additionally has helped multiple generations of Free Will Baptist women identify and carry out their role in fulfilling the Great Commission.

In honor of this milestone year, would you consider GIVING 90? WNAC is asking all Free Will Baptists to support the ongoing, faithful work of WNAC through a gift of $9, $90, $900, or $9,000.

Let’s help WNAC finish its first century strong and growing!

Learn more: wnac.org/giving-tree

38 TREASURE