Author Archives: Marie

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About Marie

Happily married to the same awesome guy for many years. Love God, reading, cats, and travel. Avid crafter especially counted cross stitch and crochet.

Sackcloth and Ashes of the Heart – Book Review

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sackcloth

I was recently blessed with the opportunity to review Sackcloth and Ashes of the Heart. This book is a somewhat new way to do a Bible study. Sheri Caruso opens each week of the 8-week study with an insightful look at one of the churches of Revelation. This is followed by 7 days of verses to contemplate and pray. The unexpected format was a gift because I decided that I would totally immerse myself in the process. I’m so glad I did. 

I chose the book because of its title and expected a great story of someone who had greatly sinned and through a season of repentance and prayer (Sackcloth and Ashes…) was totally forgiven. By the end of the book I discovered that person was me. Praying through the verses each day in my own words helped me understand that not only are the Revelation Churches about individual groups but they have issues that directly apply to me. Wow!

I highly recommend this book to groups and individuals. It is definitely worth the time.

It’s free on Kindle right now! Right here – Sackcloth and Ashes of the Heart

Blessings to you and yours!

Marie

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Capture Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Prayers for Anxiety

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Have there been times when you want, really want, to pray the right words but something is blocking it. Of course, you have, we all have. I came across this article by Laura Fleetwood in the Joyful Life Magazine that was tremendously helpful. Check out Prayers for Anxiety.

Prayers for Anxiety

Blessings to you and yours!

Marie

A Satisfied Spirit/Marie Bungard is a participant in the Joyful Life Affiliate Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Joyful Life. A small commission is given on products sold through this affiliate link. Every purchase you make through a Joyful Life affiliate link supports this ministry at no additional cost to you.

RE-FORMATION

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Which did you choose to celebrate on October 31st? Reformation or Halloween?

I choose to remember the day as the re-formation of the church. On this day in 1517, Martin Luther is said to have nailed the 95 Thesis, which were a list of his grievances against the established church and its practices at that time, to the door of All Saints Church in Wittenburg, Germany. Many new denominations (all worshipping the same Jesus) were part of the result of his action. Most importantly, for me, is the move toward worshipping as the Spirit guides us and not as a governing body says it must be.

Martin Luther had five basic teachings, called sola (solus, soli) that summed up his thoughts. They are still applicable to all Christians today. Sola is a Latin word (the language of the Church at that time) that means alone, only, single, unique. i.e., God’s word, and His Word alone, is the only Word that matters!

SOLA SCRIPTURA – As followers of Christ, we live by the Word (Scripture) and acknowledge that every Word is the breath of God. 2 Timothy 3:16-17

SOLUS CHRISTUS – Christ alone is the Perfector of our faith. Hebrews 12:1-2

SOLA GRATIA – We, in Christ, by His grace alone, are loved, forgiven, and chosen. Romans 3:24

SOLA FIDE – We are justified by faith alone. Faith is God’s work in us, drawing us closer to Him. Because God is working in us, through our faith in Him, we can’t help but work for others. (See Martin Luther’s explanation of faith here.)

SOLI DEO GLORIA – All glory is to God alone! Psalm 115

These are simple truths and we are called to share them as His Disciples.

Make it happen!

Blessings to you and yours!

Marie

All scriptural links are from Bible Gateway. Check it out!

Treasure

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Treasure Haiku

Today’s word for 5-Minute Friday’s free write is Treasure! I am delighted to join this community of writers each Friday.  Join us here.

Blessings upon blessings and grace upon grace to you!

Marie