<![CDATA[PLAN BE

<![CDATA[PLAN BE - Blog]]>Tue, 07 Jan 2025 21:38:25 -0800Weebly<![CDATA[BE a Courageous Super Hero - BE an Encourager]]>Thu, 22 Apr 2021 14:36:56 GMThttps://www.bedesignedtobe.org/blog/be-a-courageous-super-hero-be-an-encourager

COURAGE

Wordly Definition:
The ability to do something that frightens one. Strength in the face of pain or grief.

Biblical Definition:
The Bible teaches that we are to take courage from the fact that He never leaves us or forsakes us. ... Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go." With God, you can face your fear.
You are not alone.

ENCOURAGE

Wordly Definition:
give support, confidence, or hope to (someone)

Biblical Definition:
to strengthen or stimulate

Simple Definition:
to fill someone with courage

------------------------------

In/With My Daily ...
Faith
"Wait on the LORD; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the LORD!"
[ Psalm 27:14 ]

Be excellent and dedicated in representing the truth as well as good over evil, just like your favorite super hero! Read/Learn/Absorb more knowledge about developing courage in your faith and especially your character (follow Jesus' lead). Pray for courage to represent who Jesus stands for. Pray for strength in defending Jesus Christ and being an ambassador of Him -
the One who defeated the grave!

Family
"Everyone helped his neighbor, And said to his brother, "Be of good courage!"
[ Isaiah 41:6 ]

The word encourage means to fill someone with courage. To open them up and pour it into their heart. What type of people do you have around you? Cynical and pessimistic people will drain you of your courage, but confident and faith-filled people will encourage you. Support the children in your life and neighborhood with love and encouragement - they may need to experience a little Jesus in their life today (yes, through you!).

Friends
"And from there, when the brethren heard about us, they came to meet us as far as Appii Forum and Three Inns. When Paul saw them, he thanked God and took courage."
[ Acts 28:15 ]

Have you ever planned something that you believe in (like a party or a bible study?) and you hope people show up? And when they do, don't you feel encouraged? We need to support one another for good causes (like a charity walk, or event, a birthday, etc. ), especially with our walk with Jesus.

Finances
"Then you will prosper, if you take care to fulfill the statutes and judgments with which the LORD charged Moses concerning Israel. Be strong and of good courage; do not fear nor be dismayed."
[ 1 Chronicles 22:13 ]

Finances can be a daunting, negative topic. Even so, it is important and there is hope! Be courageous and set up a budget for yourself, stick to it and see where you end up in 6 months! In a year! Work hard at being dedicated to simplifying your life/finances: tithe, pay off debt, and save - it is then that you will experience financial peace.

Food
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."
[ Joshua 1:9 ]

With God, you can face your fear. If you are trying to make good, healthy food decisions throughout the day, but find yourself falling into the pits of tempations of routine or certain key failure times of the day, change up your routine/menu to involve healthier foods and yummy new recipes.

Fitness
"What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?"
Do you know that God is for you?
[ Romans 8:31 ]

Our human nature can take comfort in daily routine (both good and bad routines). There are so many hours in a day. I encourage you: Replace these pits of temptations throughout your day with encouraging times of excercise, new workout groups and the Word of God. Do not be discouraged, but be encouraged by His Power in your life. Invite God into your decision-making. It is up to you to make your choices! Do not let your bad routines define you! Change them! Focus on living a clean and healthy life. Saying "no" to a temptation, is saying "yes" to a healthier and successful you!

Fun
"What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?"
Do you know that God is for you?
[ Romans 8:31 ]

If we watch too many movies or social media of celebrities who show us that "fun" is partying, drinking, drugs and unfulling sex, then I encourage you to change your channels! Replace these choices (get rid of them! I promise you: if you replace your bad choices with a good documentary or a fun workout, healthy cooking class, Pickleball group after work or bible study group, you WILL overcome your old temptations and forget about them! Believe it! It's up to you to change your social calendar. I encourage you: fill your calendar with healthy, happy, and fun things to do!
Be thankful for these groups and
give your glory to God, for He is for you!
You are never alone!

-----------------------------

References
1) Life Applications Study Bible
2) "5 Powerful Principles About Courage In the Bible" - ViralBeliever.com, -- Contagious Faith Delivered Daily
3) Written by Christie Lynch

]]><![CDATA[BE ~ "This has to be the Son of God!"]]>Fri, 02 Apr 2021 19:52:33 GMThttps://www.bedesignedtobe.org/blog/be-this-has-to-be-the-son-of-god

The Chronology of Christ's Crucifixion & Resurrection
Thursday
Jesus and the twelve disciples come into Jerusalem from Bethany, to partake of the Passover Meal

Passover is observed on the 14th of Nisan every year (Leviticus 23.5). Jesus and His disciples partook of the Passover in the early evening of the previous day. (Days are calculated from sunset-to-sunset, not midnight-to-midnight.)

Jesus ate an early-evening Passover meal with His disciples.
After the meal, the walks with His disciples towards the Mt. of Olives.
Jesus was betrayed by Judas at the olive grove in Gethsemane, arrested and brought before the high priest, Caiaphas.

Friday
Trial ends at daybreak.
In the morning, Jesus was brought before Pilate the governor.
Jesus was crucified and dies around 3PM
Jesus' body was placed in the tomb at twilight
Annual Sabbath begins at sunset.

Insert Verse above and Read the Chapter
"For when Jesus was on the cross, I was on your mind."

Saturday
This was the first annual Sabbath or high-day - the first day of Unleavened Bread.
Tomb is guarded and secured .

Sunday
With the annual Sabbath now over, the women bought and prepared spices
for anointing Jesus' body..... stay tuned...!

Prayer, Dear Jesus, Easter is not just a story. History. It's your story. You are real. You are the Son of God. You are God. Keep filling me with your gift of faith and finding trust in my design to know you and be saved!! Save from what? Saved from myself!
I am God's masterpiece on Earth, to take over Jesus' mission after this crucifixion.
Use me and let me Glorify YOU!
Amen.

"40-Days of Excellence" Journal
CHALLENGE
We invite you on a quest to dig deeper and learn about the meaning of the death and resurrection of Friend Jesus. Over the next 40 days (of this Lenten season), join us in this Journal Challenge. You may want to "give something up" (we recommend noise in your life: social media, limited news time, etc.). Instead of focusing on what you can't have, let's focus on what we CAN HAVE walking with Jesus through the prophets and disciples through the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

Here is What To Do
1) Start by scheduling quiet time into your schedule every day for 40 days.
2) Get a Journal and entitle it: "40 Days of Excellence"
3) Get your Bible out (or use the YouVersion Bible app) and write out the questions and scripture mentioned in the our blogs, (you can go back and review the blog posts)
4) Around Day 30, journal what the characteristics of BEcoming an EXCELLENT Christian can look like in your life.

We promise you, this will be one of the most enriching studies you can do.
BE dedicated, set boundaries, and you will discover
EXCELLENCE in Jesus, Others and Yourself. = JOY!!

Please Note: If you are joining us well into the 40 Day Challenge, like God, we will meet you where you are at!
No stress. No worries. We're just happy you are coming along for the journey.
xo Christie and Sandi

]]><![CDATA[BE Excellent~ Why is today Good?]]>Fri, 02 Apr 2021 15:30:35 GMThttps://www.bedesignedtobe.org/blog/be-excellent-why-is-today-good

BE Excellent In Him
Why is today GOOD?
"He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that might die to sin and live to (His) righteousness.   By his wounds you have been healed." 1 Peter 2:24

Wow. I deviate from John's story today because of the clarity and truth of this verse from Peter, one of Jesus' disciples. Peter actually lived through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. Jesus, his friend, his teacher, his mentor, his King.

During these final days for Jesus on Earth, just like us but for the first time, Peter witnessed in entirety why Jesus came to the Earth.

WHY is today GOOD? Because a little more than 2000 years ago, Jesus Christ took our sins to the cross, where HE died and shed his blood for our sins, was buried for our sins and on the third day God raised him to life. If we trust Him by faith and repent our sins, God will forgive us, heal our hearts, and give us a new life with him for eternity. - Franklin Graham

THAT's why it is GOOD! Praise God!

Q: If we trust Him by Faith and repent, HE takes away our sins. Do you? Have you? Don't worry about your pride in admitting guilt about things you have done and left undone. Jesus is our advocate and takes ALL of your burdens to the cross today and EVERY day.

Q: Have you watched the Passion of the Christ? Do it.

Prayer: Dearest Jesus. You died for my sins today. WANTING to die for ME. May I never forget the true meaning of Easter. "For when He was on the cross, I was on His mind." Amen

"40-Days of Excellence" Journal
CHALLENGE
We invite you on a quest to dig deeper and learn about the meaning of the death and resurrection of Friend Jesus. Over the next 40 days (of this Lenten season), join us in this Journal Challenge. You may want to "give something up" (we recommend noise in your life: social media, limited news time, etc.). Instead of focusing on what you can't have, let's focus on what we CAN HAVE walking with Jesus through the prophets and disciples through the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

Here is What To Do
1) Start by scheduling quiet time into your schedule every day for 40 days.
2)  Get a Journal and entitle it: "40 Days of Excellence"
3) Get your Bible out (or use the YouVersion Bible app) and write out the questions and scripture mentioned in the our blogs, (you can go back and review the blog posts)
4)  Around Day 30, journal what the characteristics of BEcoming an EXCELLENT Christian can look like in your life.

We promise you, this will be one of the most enriching studies you can do.
BE dedicated, set boundaries, and you will discover
EXCELLENCE in Jesus, Others and Yourself. = JOY!!

Please Note: If you are joining us well into the 40 Day Challenge, like God, we will meet you where you are at!
No stress. No worries. We're just happy you are coming along for the journey.
xo Christie and Sandi
------------------------

]]><![CDATA[BE Excellent in Faith - Jesus' Kingdom is Not of This World]]>Mon, 29 Mar 2021 23:15:02 GMThttps://www.bedesignedtobe.org/blog/be-excellent-in-faith-jesus-kingdom-is-not-of-this-world

John writes,
"Pilate then went back inside the palace, summoned Jesus and asked him, "Are you the king of the Jews?"
"Is that your own idea," Jesus asked,
"or did others talk to you about me?"
"Am I a Jew?" Pilate replied. "It was your people and your chief priests who handed you over to me. What is it you have done?"
Jesus said,
"My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jews.
But now my kingdom is from another place."
"You are a king, then!" said Pilate.
Jesus answered,
"You are right in saying I am a king. In fact,
for this reason I was born,
and for this I came into the world,
to testify to the truth.
Everyone on the side of truth listens to me."

[ John 18:33-37 ]

Notes John 18:34
"If Pilate was asking this question in his role as the Roman governor, he would have been inquiring whether Jesus was setting up a rebel govermnment. But the Jews were using the word king to mean their religious ruler, the Messiah. Israel was a captive nation, under the authority of the Roman empire. A rival king might have threatened Rome; a Messiah could have been a purely religious leader."

Notes John 18:36,37
"Pilate asked Jesus a straighforward question, and Jesus answered clearly. Jesus is a king, but one whose kingdom is not of this world. There seems to have been no question in Pilate's mind that Jesus spoke the truth and was innocent of any crime. It also seems apparent that while recognizing the truth, Pilate chose to reject it. It is a tragedy when we fail to recognize the truth. It is a greater tragedy when we recognize the truth but fail to heed it."

----------------------

"Then Pilate took Jesus and had him flogged. The soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns and put it on his head. They clothed him in a purple robe and went up to him again and again, saying
"Hail, king of the Jews!"
And they struck him in the face."
[ John 19:1-3 ]

The rest of Chapter 19 is brutal but true. I recommend you read it.

----------------------
Q: Up to this point in your walk with Jesus over the past weeks, are you convinced that Jesus is the Messiah, the king of kings?
Q: Do you find it hard to stand up for Jesus even today?
Q: What do you think it was like for Pilate the Roman governor, who was faced with this predicament and decision?
Q: As a leader of your household, or at work, or at school, are you faced with difficult decisions that involve truth over tradition, or a popular way of group thinking?

----------------------
"40-Days of Excellence" Journal
CHALLENGE
We invite you on a quest to dig deeper and learn about the meaning of the death and resurrection of Friend Jesus. Over the next 40 days (of this Lenten season), join us in this Journal Challenge. You may want to "give something up" (we recommend noise in your life: social media, limited news time, etc.). Instead of focusing on what you can't have, let's focus on what we CAN HAVE walking with Jesus through the prophets and disciples through the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

Here is What To Do
1) Start by scheduling quiet time into your schedule every day for 40 days.
2) Get a Journal and entitle it: "40 Days of Excellence"
3) Get your Bible out (or use the YouVersion Bible app) and write out the questions and scripture mentioned in the our blogs, (you can go back and review the blog posts)
4) Around Day 30, journal what the characteristics of BEcoming an EXCELLENT Christian can look like in your life.

We promise you, this will be one of the most enriching studies you can do.
BE dedicated, set boundaries, and you will discover
EXCELLENCE in Jesus, Others and Yourself. = JOY!!

Please Note: If you are joining us well into the 40 Day Challenge, like God, we will meet you where you are at!
No stress. No worries. We're just happy you are coming along for the journey.
xo Christie and Sandi
------------------------

References
1) Life Applications Study Bible - page 2276
2) Assembled by Christie Lynch

]]><![CDATA[BE Excellent in Your Faith - Ask God for Anything in Jesus' Name]]>Mon, 29 Mar 2021 17:34:34 GMThttps://www.bedesignedtobe.org/blog/be-excellent-in-your-faith-ask-god-for-anything-in-jesus-name

Jesus Teaches about Using His Name in Prayer

Jesus tells his disciples:
"I tell you the truth,
you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices.
You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy. A woman giving birth to a child has pain because her time has come; but when her baby is born she forgets the anguish because of her joy that a child is born into the world. So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.
In that day you will no longer ask me anything.
I tell you the truth,
my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.
Until now you have not asked for anyting in my name.
Ask and you will receive,
and your joy will be complete."

[ John 16:20-24 ]

Notes John 16:23-27
"Jesus is talking about a new relationship between the believer and God. Previously, people approached God through priests. After Jesus' resurrection, any believer could approach God directly. A new day has dawned and now all believers are priests, talking with God personally and directly (see Hebrews 10:19-23). We approach God, not because of our own merit, but because Jesus, our great high priest, has made us acceptable to God."

----------------------
How exciting is this?!
This fact alone offers people so much freedom from religious rules and laws, and offers people to opportunity to walk and talk with Jesus/God directly. Read His Word in your Bible. Ask Him what you want and desire, in Jesus' beloved name, and trust that God will answer you with his good, pleasing and perfect Will for you.
There is so much He has to say to you!

Q: What do you want to ask God for? Write it all down in your journal - be specific. Continue reading His Word everyday and see how He will answer you!
Q: Are you listening?
Q: Are you open to his answer to be a) Yes, b) No, or c) Not Right Now?
Q: Do you believe God has a plan for you?
Look up Jeremiah 29:11. Write this verse in your journal. This is good news!
Q: Will you trust in His Guidance? He is there for you!

Ask him into your heart, mind and soul and experience His JOY!

----------------------
"40-Days of Excellence" Journal
CHALLENGE
We invite you on a quest to dig deeper and learn about the meaning of the death and resurrection of Friend Jesus. Over the next 40 days (of this Lenten season), join us in this Journal Challenge. You may want to "give something up" (we recommend noise in your life: social media, limited news time, etc.). Instead of focusing on what you can't have, let's focus on what we CAN HAVE walking with Jesus through the prophets and disciples through the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

Here is What To Do
1) Start by scheduling quiet time into your schedule every day for 40 days.
2) Get a Journal and entitle it: "40 Days of Excellence"
3) Get your Bible out (or use the YouVersion Bible app) and write out the questions and scripture mentioned in the our blogs, (you can go back and review the blog posts)
4) Around Day 30, journal what the characteristics of BEcoming an EXCELLENT Christian can look like in your life.

We promise you, this will be one of the most enriching studies you can do.
BE dedicated, set boundaries, and you will discover
EXCELLENCE in Jesus, Others and Yourself. = JOY!!

Please Note: If you are joining us well into the 40-Day Challenge, like God,
we will meet you where you are at!
No stress. No worries. We're just happy you are coming along for the journey.
xo Christie and Sandi

---------------------
References

1) Life Application Study Bible - Scripture and Notes, page 2269
2) Written and Assembled by Christie Lynch

]]><![CDATA[BE Excellent ~ PEACE AND VICTORY!]]>Thu, 25 Mar 2021 04:00:40 GMThttps://www.bedesignedtobe.org/blog/be-excellent-peace-and-victory

BE Excellent ~ PEACE & VICTORY
"These things I have spoken unto you, so that you may have peace. In this world you shall have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33

MacLaren's Expositions
We shall, I think, best lay on our hearts and minds the spirit and purpose of these words if we simply follow their course, and look at the three things which Christ emphasizes here: 1) the inward peace which is His purpose for us; 2)the outward tribulation which is our certain fate; and 3) the courageous confidence which Christ’s victory gives for us!

Notice how our Lord’s life was a true battle. The world tried to draw Him away from God by appealing to things desirable to sense, as in the wilderness; or to things dreadful to sense, as on the cross; and both the one and the other form of temptation He faced and conquered.

The reality of His conflict is somewhat concealed from us by reason of its calm and the completeness of His conquest. We do not appreciate the force that drives a planet upon its path because it is calm and continuous and silent, but the power that kept Jesus Christ continually faithful to His Father, continually sure of that Father’s presence, continually averse to all self-will and selfish living, was a power mightier then all others that have been manifested in the history of humanity.

But mark, again, that our Lord’s life is the type of all victorious life. The world conquers me when it draws me away from God, when it makes me its slave, when it coaxes me to trust it, and urges to despair if I lose it. The world conquers me when it comes between me and God, when it fills my desires, when it absorbs my energies, when it blinds my eyes to the things unseen and eternal.

I conquer the world when I put my foot upon its temptations, when I crush it down, when I shake off its bonds, and when nothing that time and sense, with their delights or their dreadfulnesses, can bring, prevents me from cleaving to my Father with all my heart, and from living as His child here.

Jesus Christ was not a very successful man according to the standards of New York Stock Exchange and business leaders. He made but a poor thing of the world, and He was going to be martyred on the cross the day after He said these words. And yet that was victory.

Success means making the world a stepping-stone to God.
The victory of Jesus Christ is of extremely little practical use to me, if all the use of it is to show me how to fight. You must go a deal deeper than that. ‘I have overcome the world, and I will come and put My overcoming Spirit into your weakness, and fill you with My own victorious life, and make your hands strong and be in you the conquering and omnipotent Power.’

My friends! Jesus Christ’s victory is ours, and we are victors in it, because He is more than the pattern of brave warfare, He is even the Son of God, who gave Himself for us, and gives Himself to us, and dwells in us our Strength and our Righteousness.

Lastly, remember that the condition of that victory’s being ours is the simple act of reliance upon Him and upon it. The man who goes into the battle as that little army of the Hebrews did against the wide-stretching hosts of the enemy, saying, ‘O Lord! we know not what to do, but our eyes are up unto Thee,’ will come out ‘more than conqueror through Him that loved him.’ For ‘this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.
Amen.
Take time to pray about this verse and what is happening during Jesus' final days on Earth.

"40-Days of Excellence" Journal
CHALLENGE
We invite you on a quest to dig deeper and learn about the meaning of the death and resurrection of Friend Jesus. Over the next 40 days (of this Lenten season), join us in this Journal Challenge. You may want to "give something up" (we recommend noise in your life: social media, limited news time, etc.). Instead of focusing on what you can't have, let's focus on what we CAN HAVE walking with Jesus through the prophets and disciples through the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

Here is What To Do
1) Start by scheduling quiet time into your schedule every day for 40 days.
2) Get a Journal and entitle it: "40 Days of Excellence"
3) Get your Bible out (or use the YouVersion Bible app) and write out the questions and scripture mentioned in the our blogs, (you can go back and review the blog posts)
4) Around Day 30, journal what the characteristics of BEcoming an EXCELLENT Christian can look like in your life.

We promise you, this will be one of the most enriching studies you can do.
BE dedicated, set boundaries, and you will discover
EXCELLENCE in Jesus, Others and Yourself. = JOY!!

Please Note: If you are joining us well into the 40 Day Challenge, like God, we will meet you where you are at!
No stress. No worries. We're just happy you are coming along for the journey.
xo Christie and Sandi

]]><![CDATA[BE Excellent ~ Love Each Other]]>Wed, 24 Mar 2021 05:40:12 GMThttps://www.bedesignedtobe.org/blog/be-excellent-beautiful-wonderful-powerful-the-name-of-jesus

]]><![CDATA[BE Excellent ~ It's All or Nothing]]>Tue, 23 Mar 2021 15:15:40 GMThttps://www.bedesignedtobe.org/blog/be-excellent-its-all-or-nothing

BE Excellent ~ It's All or Nothing
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. " John 14:6

If you are a Christian, you'll recognize this verse. Even if you haven't heard this before, it's a very strong statement. At this time in his ministry, Jesus was speaking the truth earnestly to his friends about what was was going to happen to him and the meaning behind it all...and the future purpose of the disciples after Jesus was gone.

Take time below to read the beginning of this chapter to better understand the context:

John 14: 5-7 “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going.”

Jesus the Way to the Father
Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?”
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life.No one comes to the Father except through me.  If you really know me, you will know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.”

Therefore, the only way to God and eternal life is faith and belief in Jesus Christ.
It really is an All or Nothing deal. Either we take the words of Jesus as recored by historical reliable documents, or we throw it all out together.

To take it a step further, it is not enough to merely believe in Jesus. Shockingly, that isn't narrow enough! The Bible also tells us the atoning work of Jesus on the cross was the only way salvation could be accomplished. In the Garden of Gesthemene, the night before His death, Jesus prayed if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me (Matthew 26:39). Jesus asked the Father if there was any other way to accomplish the salvation of man other than His atoning work on the cross, other than Him drinking the "cup" representing the wrath of God poured out upon Him in our place, let it be so.
But there was no other way.

There is so much more, but we encourage you to BE Excellent in your faith by OWNING it.
All or nothing. Every risk has a cost. Are you willing to take the risk? Pay the price to believe STRONGLY that Jesus is YOUR way, YOUR truth, YOUR life?

Q: How is Jesus YOUR way? Why?
Q: How if Jesus YOUR truth? Why?
Q: How is Jesus YOUR life? Why?

Prayer: Dear Lord, what an amazing message to hear and learn about. I can know that Jesus is the WAY, the TRUTH and the LIFE...but what does that mean in my life today? What is the price that Jesus paid for me during his 40 days to the cross...and am I as bold and willing to praise Jesus as my savior and pay that price when my friends and family don't agree? I am so excited about this journey of learning about Jesus and knowing how I'm designed for his Glory. Help me be ALL IN! All or Nothing! Amen.
"40-Days of Excellence" Journal
CHALLENGE
We invite you on a quest to dig deeper and learn about the meaning of the death and resurrection of Friend Jesus. Over the next 40 days (of this Lenten season), join us in this Journal Challenge. You may want to "give something up" (we recommend noise in your life: social media, limited news time, etc.). Instead of focusing on what you can't have, let's focus on what we CAN HAVE walking with Jesus through the prophets and disciples through the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

Here is What To Do
1) Start by scheduling quiet time into your schedule every day for 40 days.
2)  Get a Journal and entitle it: "40 Days of Excellence"
3) Get your Bible out (or use the YouVersion Bible app) and write out the questions and scripture mentioned in the our blogs, (you can go back and review the blog posts)
4)  Around Day 30, journal what the characteristics of BEcoming an EXCELLENT Christian can look like in your life.

We promise you, this will be one of the most enriching studies you can do.
BE dedicated, set boundaries, and you will discover
EXCELLENCE in Jesus, Others and Yourself.
JOY!!
Please Note: If you are joining us well into the 40 Day Challenge, like God, we will meet you where you are at!
No stress. No worries. We're just happy you are coming along for the journey.
xo Christie and Sandi

]]><![CDATA[BE Excellent in Faith - Understand Why It Was Planned to Put Jesus to Death]]>Sun, 21 Mar 2021 13:34:26 GMThttps://www.bedesignedtobe.org/blog/be-excellent-in-faith-understand-why-it-was-planned-to-put-jesus-to-death

After Jesus performed many miracles, as well as the amazing miracle of raising his friend named, Lazarus, from the dead, religious leaders felt threatened by his power and
who Jesus claimed to be - the Messiah.
They grew a hatred toward Jesus.

Apostle John writes,
"Therefore many of the Jews who had come to visit Mary, and had seen what Jesus did
[raising Lazarus from the dead], [those particular Jews] put their faith in him.
But some of them went to the *Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done.
Then the chief priests and the Pharisees called a meeting of the ***Sanhedrin."

“What are we accomplishing? they asked.
“Here is this man performing many miraculous signs. If we let him go on like this, everyone will believe in him, and then the Romans will come and take away both our place and our nation.”

"Then one of them, named Caiaphas [a **Sadducee], who was high priest that year, spoke up, “You know nothing at all! You do not realize that it is better for you that one man die for the people than that the whole nation perish.”

"He did not say this on his own, but as high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus would die for the Jewish Nation, and not only for that nation but also for the scattered children of God, to bring them together and make them one."

"So from that day on they plotted to take his life."
[ John 11:45-51 ]

Notes John 11:48
The Jewish leaders knew that if they didn’t stop Jesus, the Romans would discipline them.
Rome gave partial freedom to the Jews as long as they were quiet and obedient.
Jesus’ miracles often caused a disturbance.
The leaders feared that Rome’s displeasure would bring additional hardship to their nation.

Digging Deeper

*Pharisee
[1 of 2 major religious groups in Israel during the time of Christ]
Positive Characteristics
+ Were committed to obeying all of God’s commands
+ Were admired by the common people for their apparent piety
+ Believed in a bodily resurrection and eternal life
+ Believed in angels and demons
Negative Characteristics
- Behaved as though their own religious rules were just as important as God’s rules for living.
- Their piety was often hypocritical and their efforts often forced others to try to live up to standard they themselves could not live up to
- Believed that salvation came from perfect obedience to the law and was not based on forgiveness of sins
- Became so obsessed with obeying their legal interpretations in every detail that they completely ignored God’s message of mercy and grace.
- Were more concerned with appearing to be good than obeying God
- Disliked and distrusted the Sadducees, but became allies in their common hatred for Jesus.

**Sadducees
[2 of 2 major religious groups in Israel during the time of Christ]
Positive Characteristics
+ Believed strongly in the Mosaic law and in Levitical purity
+ Were more practically minded than the Pharisees
Negative Characteristics
- Relied on logic and politics while placing little importance on faith
- Did not believe all the Old Testament was God’s Word
- Did not believe in a bodily resurrection or eternal life
- Did not believe in angels or demons
- Were often willing to compromise their values with the Romans and others in order to maintain their status and influential positions
- Disliked and distrusted the Pharisees, but became allies in their common hatred for Jesus.

***Sanhedrin
The Sanhedrin was the most powerful religious and political body of the Jewish people. Although the Romans controlled Israel’s government, they gave the people power to handle religious disputes and some civil disputes, so the Sanhedrin made many of the local decisions affecting daily life. But a death sentence had to be approved by the Romans (John 18:31)

Who was Caiaphas?
Caiaphas was the leader of the religious group called the **Sadducees. Educated and wealthy, they were politically influential in the nation. As the elite group, they were on fairly good terms with Rome. They hated Jesus because he endangered their secure life-styles
and taught a message they could not accept.
A kingdom in which leaders served had no appeal to them.

Caiaphas’s usual policy was to remove any threats to his power by whatever means necessary. For Caiaphas, whether Jesus should die was not in question; the only point to be settled was when his death should take place. Not only did Jesus have to be captured and tried; the Jewish council also needs Roman approval before they could carry out the death sentences.
Caiaphas’s plans were unexpectedly helped by Judas’s offer to betray Christ.

Caiaphas did not realize that his schemes were actually part of a wonderful plan God was carrying out. Caiaphas’s willingness to sacrifice another man to preserve his own security was clearly selfish. By contrast, Jesus’ willingness to die for us was a clear example of loving self-sacrifice. Caiaphas thought he had won the battle as Jesus hung on the cross, but he did not count on the resurrection!

Caiaphas’s mind was closed. He couldn’t accept the resurrection even when the evidence was overwhelming, and he attempted to silence those whose lives had been forever changed by the risen Christ (Matthew 28:12,13). Caiaphas represents those people who will not believe because they think it will cost them too much to accept Jesus as Lord. They choose the fleeting power, prestige, and pleasures of this life instead of the eternal life God offers those who receive his Son.

-----------------------
Journal Prompts

Q: What is your choice?
Q: Imagine you are a Jew living among the days Jesus walked Israel with his disciples,
do you think you were a Pharisee? Sadducee? Gentile (non-Jew)?
Q: Based on what you’ve read, would you believe Jesus is one to be threatening?
Q: Do you tend to believe whatever the crowd tells you to believe or do?
Q: Do you believe that Jesus is worth believing in even if it’s not popular in your community?
Q: Do you believe Jesus' purpose on this earth was to represent all people,
no matter what religious affiliation?

-----------------------
"40-Days of Excellence" Journal
CHALLENGE
We invite you on a quest to dig deeper and learn about the meaning of the death and resurrection of Friend Jesus. Over the next 40 days (of this Lenten season), join us in this Journal Challenge. You may want to "give something up" (we recommend noise in your life: social media, limited news time, etc.). Instead of focusing on what you can't have, let's focus on what we CAN HAVE walking with Jesus through the prophets and disciples through the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

Here is What To Do
1) Start by scheduling quiet time into your schedule every day for 40 days.
2) Get a Journal and entitle it: "40 Days of Excellence"
3) Get your Bible out (or use the YouVersion Bible app) and write out the questions and scripture mentioned in the our blogs, (you can go back and review the blog posts)
4) Around Day 30, journal what the characteristics of BEcoming an EXCELLENT Christian can look like in your life.

We promise you, this will be one of the most enriching studies you can do.
BE dedicated, set boundaries, and you will discover
EXCELLENCE in Jesus, Others and Yourself.
JOY!!
Please Note: If you are joining us well into the 40 Day Challenge, like God, we will meet you where you are at!
No stress. No worries. We're just happy you are coming along for the journey.
xo Christie and Sandi

----------------------
References
Life Application Study Bible - pages 2254-2255
Assembled by: Christie Lynch

]]><![CDATA[BE Excellent in Faith -- Jesus is the Good Shepherd - Know His Voice - Part 2]]>Fri, 19 Mar 2021 12:23:12 GMThttps://www.bedesignedtobe.org/blog/be-excellent-in-faith-jesus-is-the-good-shepherd-know-his-voice-part-2

What did we learn from the previous blog story of walking alongside Jesus:

He restored sight to a man who was blind all his life - a complete miracle - who else can do that?
He is a stranger that says he tells the truth - interesting, I want to hear more!
He is the gate to Salvation - BE Saved !
He is the Good Shepherd and it benefits us to follow His Voice
He is Jesus = God = man = Christ = Messiah
He gives “life” vs a thief who takes (let’s explore that a bit deeper…)

Jesus explains to those listening:
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. The hired hand is not the shepherd who owns the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep.”
(John 10:11-13)

Notes: John 10:10
In contrast to the thief who takes life, Jesus gives life. The life he gives right now is abundantly richer and fuller. It is eternal, yet it begins immediately. Life in Christ is lived o a higher plane because of his overflowing forgiveness, love, and guidance. Have you taken Christ’s offer of life?

Notes: John 10:11,12
A hired hand tends the sheep for money, while the shepherd does it for love. The shepherd owns the sheep and is committed to them. Jesus is not merely doing a job; he is committed to love us and even lay down his life for us. False teachers and false prophets do not have this commitment.

Jesus continues…
“I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me — just as the Father knows me and I know the Father — and I lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd. The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life — only to take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father.”
(John 10:14-18)

Notes: John 10:16
The “other sheep” were non-Jews. Jesus came to save Gentiles as well as Jews. This is an insight into his worldwide mission - to die for the sins of the world. People tend to want to restrict God’s blessings to their own group, but Jesus refuses to be limited by the fences we build.

Notes: John 10:17,18
Jesus’ death and resurrection, as part of God’s plan fo the salvation of the world, were under God’s full control. No one could kill Jesus without his consent.

--------————--

“At these words, the Jews were again divided. Many of them said, ‘He is demon-possessed and raving mad. Why listen to him?” “But others said, ‘These are not the sayings of a man possessed by a demon. Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?” (John 10:19-21)

--------————--
Journal Prompts
Q: Do you believe Jesus as a shepherd? Do you believe and understand us as followers, like sheep?
Q: Do you believe or understand that reading and learning what Jesus had to say leads to a deeper understanding of Forgiveness? Love? and Guidance? (Great group discussion question, right???)
Q: Do you believe that Jesus came to save everyone? Even today? Back then it was Gentiles and Jews. Do you believe He is here right now, asking if you want to believe in Him and be saved?
Q: Do you believe that Jesus was sent to walk our earth, share His insights into the Forgiveness, Love and Guidance of God?
Q: Do you think this man, who calls himself Jesus Christ, the Messiah, is demon possessed? Or God infused?
Q: Again, do you believe that Jesus could restore sight to a blind man?
Q: Do you believe that Jesus was sent by God to be born, to die for us and our sins?

---------------------
"40-Days of Excellence" Journal
CHALLENGE
We invite you on a quest to dig deeper and learn about the meaning of the death and resurrection of Friend Jesus. Over the next 40 days (of this Lenten season), join us in this Journal Challenge. You may want to "give something up" (we recommend noise in your life: social media, limited news time, etc.). Instead of focusing on what you can't have, let's focus on what we CAN HAVE walking with Jesus through the prophets and disciples through the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

Here is What To Do
1) Start by scheduling quiet time into your schedule every day for 40 days.
2) Get a Journal and entitle it: "40 Days of Excellence"
3) Get your Bible out (or use the YouVersion Bible app) and write out the questions and scripture mentioned in the our blogs, (you can go back and review the blog posts)
4) Around Day 30, journal what the characteristics of BEcoming an EXCELLENT Christian can look like in your life.

We promise you, this will be one of the most enriching studies you can do.
BE dedicated, set boundaries, and you will discover EXCELLENCE in Jesus, Others and Yourself.
JOY!!
Please Note: If you are joining us well into the 40 Day Challenge, like God, we will meet you where you are at!
No stress. No worries. We're just happy you are coming along for the journey.
xo Christie and Sandi

----------
References
1) Life Applications Study Bible - Scripture and Notes
2) Assembled by Christie Lynch

]]><![CDATA[BE Excellent in Faith - Do YOU Believe Jesus is the Son of God?]]>Tue, 16 Mar 2021 13:42:47 GMThttps://www.bedesignedtobe.org/blog/be-excellent-in-faith-do-you-believe-jesus-is-the-son-of-god

Experiencing what it was like walking alongside this man, Jesus, brings up logical questions. Is he the Son of God? That was a big claim in those days. So why did prophets in the Old Testament predict his presence on earth? How could Jesus perform miracles? Was this all an act of God? Can simple, common people, like Martha, believe?

In John 11:25-27, it is recorded that Jesus said to Martha,
"I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live,
even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die."

Jesus continues,
"Do you believe this?"

Her answer is compelling,
"Yes Lord, I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who has come into the world."

Here is the real Question:
Do YOU believe this?

---------------------
"40-Days of Excellence" Journal
CHALLENGE
We invite you on a quest to dig deeper and learn about the meaning of the death and resurrection of Friend Jesus. Over the next 40 days (of this Lenten season), join us in this Journal Challenge. You may want to "give something up" (we recommend noise in your life: social media, limited news time, etc.). Instead of focusing on what you can't have, let's focus on what we CAN HAVE walking with Jesus through the prophets and disciples through the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

Here is What To Do
1) Start by scheduling quiet time into your schedule every day for 40 days.
2) Get a Journal and entitle it: "40 Days of Excellence"
3) Get your Bible out (or use the YouVersion Bible app) and write out the questions and scripture mentioned in the our blogs, (you can go back and review the blog posts)
4) Around Day 30, journal what the characteristics of BEcoming an EXCELLENT Christian can look like in your life.

We promise you, this will be one of the most enriching studies you can do.
BE dedicated, set boundaries, and you will
discover EXCELLENCE in Jesus, Others and Yourself
JOY!!
Please Note: If you are joining us well into the 40 Day Challenge, like God, we will meet you where you are at!
No stress. No worries. We're just happy you are coming along for the journey.
xo Christie and Sandi

----------
References
1) Life Applications Study Bible
2) Journal Entry by Christie Lynch

]]><![CDATA[BE Excellent -- Jesus is the Good Shepherd, Know His Voice - Part 1]]>Mon, 15 Mar 2021 13:38:21 GMThttps://www.bedesignedtobe.org/blog/be-excellent-jesus-is-the-good-shepherd-know-his-voice-part-1

Imagine you are out and about your day, and there is commotion that draws your attention. You just witnessed a man giving sight to another man! What a miracle right? Who does this? You may think, is this an act of God?! You are right.
After Jesus restored sight to a blind man (John 9:1-41),
Jesus has the attention of the people gathering.
He explains Himself as the Good Shepherd.
Here is what we learn from John Chapter 10:1-10:

Notes Ch 10:1
At night, sheep were often gathered into a sheep pen to protect them from thieves, weather, or wild animals. The sheep pens were caves, sheds or open areas surrounded by walls made of stone or branches. The shepherd often slept in the pen to protect the sheep. Just as a shepherd cares for his sheep, Jesus, the Good Shepherd, cares for his flock (those who follow him). The prophet Ezekiel, in predicting the coming of the Messiah, called him a shepherd (Ezekiel 34:23).

Notes Ch 10:7
In the sheep pen, the shepherd functioned as a gate, letting the sheep in and protecting them. Jesus is the gate to God’s salvation for us. He offers access to safety and security. Christ is our protector. Some people resent that
Jesus is the gate, the only way of access to God.
But Jesus is God’s Son - why should we seek any other way or want to customize a different approach to God? (See also the notes on 14:6)

After Jesus brought sight to a blind man, Jesus explained Himself as the Good Shepherd:
“I tell you the truth, the man who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate, but climbs in by some other way, is a thief and a robber. The man who enters by the gate is the shepherd of his sheep. The watch man opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice. But they will never follow a stranger, in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger’s voice.”

Then Jesus related this story to His Purpose as the Good Shepherd:
“I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep.
All who ever came before me were thieves and robbers,
but the sheep did not listen to them.
I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved.
He will come in and go out, and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”

----------

Journal Prompts
Q: From the beginning to the end of your day, what voices do you listen to? (e.g. news? family? friends? social media? Bible? radio talk show hosts? certain authors?)
Advice: Try listening less to people of this world, and more to Jesus, God’s Son sent down to earth to walk with you!
Q: What do you base your truth on?
Q: Do you believe Jesus is telling you the truth?
Q: Does Jesus’ voice and message seem clear to you?
Q: Who should you hear from more, and who should you tune out more?
Q: Do you know more about certain actors/actresses’ lives
than you do about Jesus’ life?
Q: What more do you need to believe that Jesus IS God?
Q: What questions do you have? Journal them and over the next few weeks, we pray you can go back and fill in some answers.

----------
"40-Days of Excellence" Journal
CHALLENGE
We invite you on a quest to dig deeper and learn about the meaning of the death and resurrection of Friend Jesus. Over the next 40 days (of this Lenten season), join us in this Journal Challenge. You may want to "give something up" (we recommend noise in your life: social media, limited news time, etc.). Instead of focusing on what you can't have, let's focus on what we CAN HAVE walking with Jesus through the prophets and disciples through the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

Here is What To Do
1) Start by scheduling quiet time into your schedule every day for 40 days.
2) Get a Journal and entitle it: "40 Days of Excellence"
3) Get your Bible out (or use the YouVersion Bible app) and write out the questions and scripture mentioned in the our blogs, (you can go back and review the blog posts)
4) Around Day 30, journal what the characteristics of BEcoming an EXCELLENT Christian can look like in your life.

We promise you, this will be one of the most enriching studies you can do.
BE dedicated, set boundaries, and you will
discover EXCELLENCE in Jesus, Others and Yourself
JOY!!
Please Note: If you are joining us well into the 40 Day Challenge, like God, we will meet you where you are at!
No stress. No worries. We're just happy you are coming along for the journey.
xo Christie and Sandi
----------
References
1) Life Applications Study Bible
2) Assembled by Christie Lynch

]]><![CDATA[BE Excellent ~ Spiritual Insight]]>Sun, 14 Mar 2021 23:57:01 GMThttps://www.bedesignedtobe.org/blog/be-excellent-spiritual-insight

BE Excellent ~ Spiritual Insight ~ STAY FOCUSED

Jesus said, “If you were blind, you would not be guilty of sin;
but now that you claim you can see, your guilt remains.

Jesus' miracles have different reactions. Surprise, skepticism, disbelief, prejudice, depreciation, excommunication. Yet spiritual insight responds in consistent belief, verbal testimony, clear perspective. BE Excellent - have clearer perspective around what is happening if your life.

Read John 1-9 to get caught up with your Spiritual Insight!!

]]><![CDATA[BE Excellent ~ The Truth will Set You Free!]]>Fri, 12 Mar 2021 16:07:07 GMThttps://www.bedesignedtobe.org/blog/be-excellent-the-truth-will-set-you-free

BE Excellent and "the Truth Will Set you Free."
John 8:31-36
To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” They answered him, “We are Abraham’s descendants and have never been slaves of anyone. How can you say that we shall be set free?” Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed."

The Truth will set you free. What does that mean? We live in a society that has trouble with truth. This is nothing new. Christianity is based on a belief that what Jesus said and did is TRUE. Jesus came because of God’s love. His promise is that whosoever believes in Him should not die, but have everlasting life. Be set free from the slavery of sin through the truth of Jesus Christ.

The Importance of Truth: Activity
Draw a picture about something that comes to mind when you read this passage. Journal about this or at least take some time to ponder about it. 1) Count how many times the word “true/truth” is said...feel free to circle or underline 2) What do you believe Jesus meant the “truth will make you free.”

Prayer: Dear Jesus, this is such a strong message that the truth is not what the world says, what others say, and not necessarily what I might THINK is true. The truth is what you say, what you do, and what you desire from me to BE excellent as a follower of your truth. A follower of Christ. Now I get it! When I live IN truth, and know the truth and believe the truth of God's word and what the Bible teaches me...I'm actually knowing and trusting You. Jesus, my friend, my savior, my creator, my truth. Thank you. Amen"

40 Day Challenge

]]><![CDATA[BE Excellent ~ Look Up!]]>Wed, 10 Mar 2021 15:46:18 GMThttps://www.bedesignedtobe.org/blog/be-excellence-i-believe

BE Excellent

"For my Father's will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day." John 6:40

Look Up~ Look to the Son! To receive eternal life, you must make a sincere commitment to believe in Jesus. That's it. Truly. Jesus has promised this to all that believe in Him. Excellence in Jesus is simply believing that Jesus is who he claims to be... and embarking on that life with YOUR Creator. This is the will of God for your life. This is who you are designed to BE.

“Faith in Christ is simply and truly described as coming to him. It is not an acrobatic feat; it is simply a coming to Christ. It is not an exercise of profound mental faculties; it is coming to Christ. A child comes to his mother, a blind man comes to his home, even an animal comes to his master. Coming is a very simple action indeed; it seems to have only two things about it, one is, to come away from something, and the other is, to come to something.” (Spurgeon)

Everyone who sees the Son~ Look to the sun...and accept the Son to receive eternal life.

Prayer: Dear Lord~ I want to receive eternal life and build my life upon YOUR Kingdom Excellence. Excellence in Jesus is believing in you. Today I declare that you are Christ, the Son of the living God, my creator. Please accept me into your family and allow me to embark on the life of belief that is satisfying to God's will. This is the will of God for my life. This is who I am designed to BE. Thank you! Amen."

]]><![CDATA[BE Excellence-The Bread of Life]]>Tue, 09 Mar 2021 15:44:11 GMThttps://www.bedesignedtobe.org/blog/be-excellence-the-bread-of-life

BE Excellence

THE BREAD OF LIFE ~ JESUS

Is your work, your day-to-day focused on "food" which perishes? Things that fill a stomach and rule and earthly kingdoms? Jesus wants us to labor for the food which endures for everlasting life.

]]><![CDATA[BE Excellent in Faith - Journal Entry]]>Sun, 07 Mar 2021 17:54:26 GMThttps://www.bedesignedtobe.org/blog/be-excellent-in-faith-journal-entry6048071

]]><![CDATA[BE Excellent in Faith - Journal Entry]]>Sun, 07 Mar 2021 17:34:43 GMThttps://www.bedesignedtobe.org/blog/be-excellent-in-faith-journal-entry

]]><![CDATA[Be Excellent ~ Dwell on these things]]>Sun, 28 Feb 2021 00:42:10 GMThttps://www.bedesignedtobe.org/blog/be-excellent-dwell-on-these-things

]]><![CDATA[BE Excellent ~ Shine!]]>Fri, 26 Feb 2021 17:03:48 GMThttps://www.bedesignedtobe.org/blog/be-excellent-a-shining-light

BE Excellent ~ Shine!
"In Him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind.
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it." John 1:4-5

Jesus is a reflection of light: eminent, conspicuous, and distinguished. To be conspicuously evident or clear that Jesus is alive in and with you, SHINE like Jesus!

In Him was life, and the life was the light of men.
Who is “Him” in this verse? (the Word)
What was in Him? (the life)
What does John say was the “light of men?” (the life)
Do you remember when God said, ‘Let there be Light’? (in the beginning, at creation)
Do you think this is the light He was talking about? Consider the light IN the world and the light OF the world. Consider if Jesus is IN us, then we are HIS living light...the light of the Son of man.

The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
When is it dark outside? (at night)
But are there any things that light up the night sky? (the moon and stars)
But “in the beginning” God’s world was completely dark. There was no sun, no moon, no stars.
What does this verse tell us shined in the darkness?  (the light)
What was this light? (the Word)
Who is the Word? (Jesus! Jesus lit up the darkness!)
We reflect Jesus' light by Shining!

I encourage you when learning about a concept or idea to also jot down the opposite. By doing so, you will gain even more insight of the value of the attribute.
This will help you to BE Excellent.
What is the opposite of excellent? (Look it up)
To BE Excellent = Light = SHINE!

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, my days are full. On the days I start with you, my days are centered in your excellence. As I reflect on your excellence and blessing and creation, make me more like you. I am your reflection to the world. Let me shine! Help me shine and help others out of the darkness. I don't want to be dim or lack value. Fill me with your Glory and Shinyness.
Amen

Author: Sandi Hanscom
References: The Bible
"Simple Home Blessings" online

"40-Days of Excellence" Journal
CHALLENGE
We invite you on a quest to dig deeper and learn about the meaning of the death and resurrection of Friend Jesus. Over the next 40 days (of this Lenten season), join us in this Journal Challenge. You want to "give something up" (we recommend noise in your life: social media, limited news time, etc.). Instead of focusing on what you can't have, let's focus on what we CAN HAVE walking with Jesus through the prophets and disciples through the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

Here is What To Do
1) Start by scheduling quiet time into your schedule every day for 40 days.
2)  Get a Journal and entitle it: "40 Days of Excellence"
3) Get your Bible out (or use the YouVersion Bible app) and write out the questions and scripture mentioned in the our blogs, (you can go back and review the blog posts)
4)  Around Day 30, journal what the characteristics of BEcoming an EXCELLENT Christian can look like in your life.

We promise you, this will be one of the most enriching studies you can do.
BE dedicated, set boundaries, and you will discover EXCELLENCE in Jesus, Others and Yourself
JOY!!

Please Note: If you are joining us well into the 40 Day Challenge, like God, we will meet you where you are at!
No stress. No worries. We're just happy you are coming along for the journey.
xo Christie and Sandi

]]><![CDATA[BE Excellent in Your Faith and Learn to Trust What Jesus Has to Say]]>Fri, 26 Feb 2021 16:31:59 GMThttps://www.bedesignedtobe.org/blog/be-excellent-in-your-faith-and-learn-to-trust-what-jesus-has-to-say

Jesus Talks to the Woman at the Well
Part 2

John 4:16-26
Jesus said to the woman,
“Go, call your husband and come back.”
She replied,
“I have no husband.”
Jesus said to her,
“You are right when you say you have no husband. The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true.”
“Sir,” the woman said, “I can see that you are a prophet. Our fathers worshiped on this mountain, but you Jews claim that the place where we must worship is in Jerusalem.”
Jesus declared,
“Believe me, woman, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, for salvation is from the Jews. Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks.
God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth.”

The woman said, “I know that Messiah” (called Christ) “is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us.”
Then Jesus declared,
“I who speak to you am he.”

Notes John 4:15
The woman did not immediately understand what Jesus was talking about. It takes time to accept something that changes the very foundations of your life. Jesus allowed the woman time to ask questions and put pieces together for herself. Sharing the gospel will not always have immediate results. When you ask people to let Jesus change their lives, give them time to weigh the matter.

Notes John 4:16-20
When this woman discovered that Jesus knew all about her private life, she quickly changed the subject. Often people become uncomfortable when the conversation is too close to home, and they try to talk about something else. As we witness, we should gently guide the conversation back to Christ. His presence exposes sin and makes people squirm, but
only Christ can forgive sins and give new life.
Stay tuned, as well discover more about all this over the next few weeks.

Important to Reiterate -- Notes John 4:22
When Jesus said, “salvation is from the Jews,” he meant that only through the Jewish Messiah would the whole world find salvation. God had promised that through the Jewish race the whole earth would be blessed (Genesis 12:3). The Old Testament prophets had called the Jews to be a light to the other nations of the world, binging them to a knowledge of God; and they had predicted the Messiah’s coming. The woman at the well may have known of these passages and was expecting the Messiah, but she didn’t realize that she was talking to him!

---------------------------------

Journal
"40 Days of Excellence"
CHALLENGE

Journal Prompts
Q: How do you think you'd think and feel if you met someone like Jesus today at the local coffee shop?
Q: How can you relate to the woman?
Q: Over the past 3-days, what have you learned from "Jesus Talks to the Woman at the Well"?
Q: Write down at least 3 things you learned from what Jesus had to say.
Q: Did you have any a-ha moments?

We invite you on a quest to dig deeper and learn about the meaning of the death and resurrection of Friend Jesus. Over the next 40 days (of this Lenten season), join us in this Journal Challenge to learn what it was like to walk alongside Jesus. If you want to "give something up" (we recommend noise in your life: social media, limited news time, etc.). Instead of focusing on what you can't have, let's focus on what we CAN HAVE walking with Jesus through the prophets and disciples.

Here is What To Do
1) Start by scheduling quiet time into your schedule every day for 40 days (if you are joining us well into the 40 days, no worries, just start here).
2) Get a Journal and entitle it: "40 Days of Excellence" or "Days of Excellence" :)
3) Get your Bible out (or use the YouVersion Bible app) and write out the questions and scripture mentioned in the our blogs, (you can go back and review the blog posts from February 15 on).
There is a lot - just do what you can. Focus on Thee Goal and Thee Prize.
4) Around Day 30, journal what the characteristics of BEcoming an EXCELLENT Christian can look like in your life.

We promise you, this will be one of the most enriching studies you can do.
BE dedicated, set boundaries, and you will
discover EXCELLENCE in Jesus, Others and Yourself through
JOY!!

Please Note: If you are joining us well into the 40 Day Challenge, like God, we will meet you where you are at!
No stress. No worries. We're just happy you are coming along for the journey.
xo Christie and Sandi

---------------------------------
PRAYER
Dear Jesus,
Once again, I am putting myself in this Samaritan woman's sandals and
trying to imagine meeting you in person, Jesus, during a random day, doing a random thing. You knew about her life and 5 husbands! Coincidence? Or are you really who you say you are - the Christ the Messiah - the one whom everyone is waiting for? Today is the day! Wow, and she got to meet you, Friend Jesus! And you accepted her as she is, even with all her past sins. But even she could tell you were a prophet. Or as the story ends, would she really believe you were the Christ in the flesh?!
I look forward to discovering more about you and your purpose over the next few days and weeks.
With a trusting and open heart, I praise your name, Lord Jesus,
Amen.

---------------------------------

REFERENCES
1) Life Applications Study Bible (Scripture and Notes)
2) Assembled by: Christie Lynch

]]><![CDATA[BE Excellent WITH & IN The Word of God]]>Fri, 26 Feb 2021 16:03:10 GMThttps://www.bedesignedtobe.org/blog/be-excellent-with-in-the-word-of-god

BE Excellent WITH & IN The Word of God.

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God."
John 1:1

The Word is the Bible. The Word = Jesus = the Living Word.

The beginning is difficult to wrap your head around. Then, John explains that the Good News of the Gospel is that Jesus was divine and existed before the creation of the world. BEFORE our beginning.

John, one of first three disciples of Jesus had a unique relationship with Jesus and he gives us a close glimpse into the life of Jesus. He was in his inner circle. John's intent during the early days of the church were to help understand who Jesus was, and IS, and that we need His salvation to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.

In the case of the Bible, God, and Jesus, we can define "The Word"
Written Word of God
God's Word
God and Jesus are One
Therefore,
Jesus is The Word

Today's challenge is to take time to be WITH and IN the Word:
BE Excellent WITH & IN The Word of God

Find time and take actions to BE Excellent by being WITH Jesus and IN His Word!!
You'll be glad you did!
Author: Sandi Hanscom
References: the Bible

"40-Days of Excellence" Journal
CHALLENGE
We invite you on a quest to dig deeper and learn about the meaning of the death and resurrection of Friend Jesus. Over the next 40 days (of this Lenten season), join us in this Journal Challenge. You want to "give something up" (we recommend noise in your life: social media, limited news time, etc.). Instead of focusing on what you can't have, let's focus on what we CAN HAVE walking with Jesus through the prophets and disciples through the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

Here is What To Do
1) Start by scheduling quiet time into your schedule every day for 40 days.
2) Get a Journal and entitle it: "40 Days of Excellence"
3) Get your Bible out (or use the YouVersion Bible app) and write out the questions and scripture mentioned in the our blogs, (you can go back and review the blog posts)
4) Around Day 30, journal what the characteristics of BEcoming an EXCELLENT Christian can look like in your life.

We promise you, this will be one of the most enriching studies you can do.
BE dedicated, set boundaries, and you will discover EXCELLENCE in Jesus, Others and Yourself
JOY!!

Please Note: If you are joining us well into the 40 Day Challenge, like God, we will meet you where you are at!
No stress. No worries. We're just happy you are coming along for the journey.
xo Christie and Sandi
————————————--

]]><![CDATA[Be Excellent in Your Faith ~ Jesus Talks to the Woman at the Well]]>Fri, 26 Feb 2021 14:45:41 GMThttps://www.bedesignedtobe.org/blog/be-excellent-in-your-faith-jesus-talks-to-the-woman-at-the-well

Jesus Talks to a Woman at the Well
Part 1

Let's first understand the historical context with this
cultural encounter between the Samaritan woman and Jesus (a Jew):

Notes: John 4:1-3
Already opposition was rising against Jesus, especially from the Pharisees. They resented Jesus’ popularity as well as his message, which challenged much of their teachings. Because Jesus was just beginning his ministry, it wasn’t yet time to confront these leaders openly; so he left Jerusalem and traveled north toward Galilee.

Notes: John 4:4
After the northern kingdom, with its capital at Samaria, fell to the Assyrians, many Jews were deported to Assyria, and foreigners were brought in to settle the land and help keep the peace (2 Kings 17:24). The intermarriage between those foreigners and the remaining Jews resulted in a mixed race, impure in the opinion of Jews who lived in the southern kingdom. Thus the pure Jews hated this mixed race called Samaritans because they felt that their fellow Jews who had intermarried had betrayed their people and nation.
Jesus came to a town in Samaria called Sychar. Tired from his journey, Jesus sat down by a water well.

John 4:7-14
A Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her:
“Will you give me a drink?”
The Samaritan woman said to him,
“You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?”
(For in that day and age, Jews did not associate with Samaritans.)
Jesus answered her,
“If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink,
you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.”
“Sir,” the woman said, “you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his flocks and herds?”
Jesus answered her,
“Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”

Notes: John 4:7-9 (Jesus Crossed over all Barriers)
This woman (1) was a Samaritan, a member of the hated mixed race, (2) was known to be living in sin [which you will learn in tomorrow’s Blog], and (3) was in a public place. No respectable Jewish man would talk to a woman under such circumstances. But Jesus did.
The gospel is for every person, no matter what his or her race, social position, or past sins.
We must be prepared to share this gospel at any time and in any place.
Jesus crossed all barriers to share the gospel,and we who follow him must do no less.”

---------------------------------

Journal
"40 Days of Excellence"
CHALLENGE

Notes: John 4:10
What did Jesus mean by “living water?” In the Old Testament, many verses speak of thirsting after God as one thirsts for water (Psalm 42:1); Isaiah 55:1; Jeremiah 2:13; Zechariah 13:1). God is called the fountain of life (Psalm 36:9) and the spring of living water (Jeremiah 17:13). In saying he would bring living water that could forever quench a person’s thirst for God, Jesus was claiming to be the Messiah. Only the Messiah could give this gift that satisfies the soul’s desire.

Q: Are there cultural barriers today?
Q: How comfortable are you in sharing your faith in Friend Jesus with others?
Q: This week do at least 3 random acts of kindness to a stranger and journal your experience. (Maybe it's holding the door open for someone and smiling at them. Maybe it's paying it forward when you get your coffee at your local coffee shop. Maybe it's letting someone cut in front of you on the road instead of you speeding up and cutting them off. Wherever your heart leads you, journal about it. How did it make the stranger feel? How did it make you feel?
Q: Have a fresh glass of water. Look at it a little differently - look at it as being the living water and be thankful you are meeting Jesus at the well.

We invite you on a quest to dig deeper and learn about the meaning of the death and resurrection of Friend Jesus. Join us in this Journal Challenge to learn what it was like to walk alongside Jesus. If you want to "give something up" (we recommend noise in your life: social media, limited news time, etc.). Instead of focusing on what you can't have, let's focus on what we CAN HAVE walking with Jesus through the prophets and disciples.

Here is What To Do
1) Start by scheduling quiet time into your schedule every day for 40 days (if you are joining us well into the 40 days, no worries, just start here).
2) Get a Journal and entitle it: "40 Days of Excellence" or "Days of Excellence" :)
3) Get your Bible out (or use the YouVersion Bible app) and write out the questions and scripture mentioned in the our blogs, (you can go back and review the blog posts from February 15 on).
There is a lot - just do what you can. Focus on Thee Goal and Thee Prize.
4) Around Day 30, journal what the characteristics of BEcoming an EXCELLENT Christian can look like in your life.

We promise you, this will be one of the most enriching studies you can do.
BE dedicated, set boundaries, and you will
discover EXCELLENCE in Jesus, Others and Yourself through
JOY!!

Please Note: If you are joining us well into the 40 Day Challenge, like God, we will meet you where you are at!
No stress. No worries. We're just happy you are coming along for the journey.
xo Christie and Sandi

---------------------------------
PRAYER
Dear Jesus,
I am putting myself in this Samaritan woman's sandals
and trying to imagine what it must have been like in those days to have such cultural differences.
I understand that even today there are cultural differences BUT we, as Christians, are united in God's Family. Thank you for this short story of how Jesus, as a Jew, dealt with someone different than himself. Help me to cross over all social (e.g. race, religion, gender, cultural) barriers and
BE accepting of everyone I meet representing Jesus and His Character.
Help me to thirst daily for the living water found in Friend Jesus, the Christ.
In your Loving Name,
Amen.

---------------------------------

REFERENCES
1) Life Applications Study Bible (Scripture and Notes)
2) Assembled by: Christie Lynch

]]><![CDATA[Be Excellent ~ Fix your Eyes on Jesus]]>Wed, 24 Feb 2021 04:34:37 GMThttps://www.bedesignedtobe.org/blog/be-excellent-fix-your-eyes-on-jesus

Fix your Eyes on Jesus ~ Hebrews 12: 1-3

New International Version translation
"And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us,  fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him {after death} he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.  Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart."

The Message translation
"Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we’re in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God—he could put up with anything along the way: Cross, shame, whatever.
And now he’s there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility he plowed through.
That will shoot adrenaline into your souls!

Wow.

We are constantly aware of what the world thinks. I'm not sure why, but we place so much value in what the world and others think about us. We get our feelings hurt when we are criticized.
We even don't know how to respond when we are complimented.

Why do we need so much from each other and the world?

When we focus our eyes on JESUS, on the favor God has for us, His affirmation and love for us will become the affirmation of our self-esteem. We have value and worth because He made us.
He Loves Us. He Died for Us. He Rose again for us. He is preparing a place in Heaven for us.
His favor for us is a shield.

How do we learn to enjoy God's favor? By fixing our eyes on Jesus
L.P.S.S.L.H.
1) Learn to enjoy your everyday blessings (write them down)
2) Praise God for Leading you and give Him thanks (write them down)
3) Seek God in Prayer ~ specifically ask God for His favor! To bless your plans
4) Study His Word bring confidence in Scripture (write each verse 7 times)
5) Live Righteously ~ earnestly seek God's favor. W hat are you doing now that is not good?
6) Cultivate a humble heart: Read 1 Peter 5:5-7. and journal.

BE Excellent by Fixing Your Eyes on Jesus

Prayer: Dear God and Jesus, help me to live in your favor and Be Excellent by fixing my eyes and life upon you. Help me to enjoy everyday blessings...thank you for them! Help me to live righteously and humbly, casting my cares upon you. This is not hard . . and the rewards are SO GOOD.
Remember me,O Lord, with the favor You have toward your people. Psalm 106:4
Amen.

Author: Sandi Hanscom
Reference: Dr. David Jeremiah

"40-Days of Excellence" Journal
CHALLENGE
We invite you on a quest to dig deeper and learn about the meaning of the death and resurrection of Friend Jesus. Over the next 40 days (of this Lenten season), join us in this Journal Challenge. You want to "give something up" (we recommend noise in your life: social media, limited news time, etc.). Instead of focusing on what you can't have, let's focus on what we CAN HAVE walking with Jesus through the prophets and disciples through the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

Here is What To Do
1) Start by scheduling quiet time into your schedule every day for 40 days.
2)  Get a Journal and entitle it: "40 Days of Excellence"
3) Get your Bible out (or use the YouVersion Bible app) and write out the questions and scripture mentioned in the our blogs, (you can go back and review the blog posts from February 15 on).
There is a lot - just do what you can. Focus on Thee Goal and Thee Prize.
4)  Around Day 30, journal what the characteristics of BEcoming an EXCELLENT Christian can look like in your life.

We promise you, this will be one of the most enriching studies you can do.
BE dedicated, set boundaries, and you will discover EXCELLENCE in Jesus, Others and Yourself
JOY!!

Please Note: If you are joining us well into the 40 Day Challenge, like God, we will meet you where you are at!
No stress. No worries. We're just happy you are coming along for the journey.
xo Christie and Sandi
————————————--

]]><![CDATA[BE Excellent in Faith and Favor]]>Mon, 22 Feb 2021 16:51:52 GMThttps://www.bedesignedtobe.org/blog/be-excellent-in-faith-and-favor

Do Yourself a Favor ~ BE Excellent in Faith and Favor

"And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and Man. Luke 2:52

We are so quick to criticize and condemn. We are often so hard on ourselves and others, our society. DIVINE favor means God is smiling down on us in His infinite grace. He is smiling down on you.

Do yourself and others a favor and learn what the Bible says about the favor of the Lord. It occurs overs 100 times, most often in the Old Testament, as it is expressing the attitude of God towards His people. Favor comes from the Latin root words "good will, inclination, kindness."

So, if we look favorably on a subject, it means we are in agreement. We vote in favor of something. We are a fan of a certain sports team. We have a favorite brand of clothing. A "fan"=

The favor of God implies His gracious, loving regard for us. God is OUR "fan" - Jesus roots for us! He is our friend. He is on our side, enthusiastic for our welfare and wellbeing. In the Bible, the word favor is related to the concept of grace ~ 'the unmerited favor of God toward mankind."

Do yourself and favor and be like Jesus, by growing in the wisdom and stature of Jesus, BE Excellent, to stay in favor with God and Man. How?

1). Desire the favor of the Lord on your life, asking God daily to refresh you!
2). Desire the favor of the Lord on other's lives.
3). Dig into the Bible to read and reflect on the verses in the Bible about God's favor.

Back in 1872, a preacher named James D. Demarest preached a sermon from Psalm 106:4 (look it up!) for which he said:
"God never had anting else but favor (for His people); He loved them from everlasting; his heart, his affections were eternally fixed upon them... And when God's favor is revealed, it melts the heart into humility, love and gratitude. He (David) did not merely want a man's favor and man's help and deliverance, but he wanted something connected with God, something that comes immediately from him. HE WANTED GOD'S FAVOR."

The favor of God means the companionship of God. Take a moment to consider as you read this....the Lord is beside you, right there, encouraging you with the truth of Scripture, aware of what the next moment holds. Jesus is going before you, coming behind you, hovering around you, even to the end of the world. Faith is BELIEVING! Believe in God's favor and SEEK it now and always.

"40-Days of Excellence"
Journal
CHALLENGE

We invite you on a quest to dig deeper and learn about the meaning of the death and resurrection of Friend Jesus. Over the next 40 days (of this Lenten season), join us in this Journal Challenge. You want to "give something up" (we recommend noise in your life: social media, limited news time, etc.). Instead of focusing on what you can't have, let's focus on what we CAN HAVE walking with Jesus through the prophets and disciples through the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

Here is What To Do
1) Start by scheduling quiet time into your schedule every day for 40 days.
2) Get a Journal and entitle it: "40 Days of Excellence"
3) Get your Bible out (or use the YouVersion Bible app) and write out the questions and scripture mentioned in the our blogs, (you can go back and review the blog posts from February 15 on).
There is a lot - just do what you can. Focus on Thee Goal and Thee Prize.
4) Around Day 30, journal what the characteristics of BEcoming an EXCELLENT Christian can look like in your life.

We promise you, this will be one of the most enriching studies you can do.
BE dedicated, set boundaries, and
you will discover EXCELLENCE in God, Friend Jesus and in yourself as a Christian.

Please Note: If you are joining us well into the 40 Day Challenge, like God, we will meet you where you are at!
No stress. No worries. We're just happy you are coming along for the journey.
xo
————————————--

PRAYER

Dear Jesus,
This is exciting to start the journey on discovering Excellence in You. Help me to organize my schedule around You. I am dedicating myself to you over the next 40 days. I will settle my mind, breathe deeper and slower and absorb the words from Scripture. I understand you have chosen certain people to represent you well, like Paul. Therefore I will read, listen and meditate on those Words. Keep me focused on Thee Goal of knowing You better. Guide me to the ultimate prize -- being in heaven with You! And, lead me as I lead my co-workers in Christ-like behaviors, choices, and actions. Help me to press on forward, and not look back. Everyday, I look forward to our time together, journaling and meditating on your wise, peaceful ways. Help me to be more like You in this world and to love on others as You and Thee Heavenly Father love on us.
In Your Loving and Most Excellent Name,
Jesus,
Amen.
————————————--

INVITATION
We would love to walk you through this study with your Bible Study Group.
To schedule a virtual or Southern California Bible Study, email us at:
bedesignedtobe@gmail.com

References
1) Dr. David Jeremiah ~ Finding Favor with God
2) Author: Sandi Hanscom

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