Samantha-Anne

I'm really looking forward to diving into this bible study of Ephesians. I'm grateful that there is a community to share my thoughts with regarding the book of Ephesians.

Adoption is a good example of God's relationship with us because it shows that God found us and chose us when we were lost and alone. Adoption is encouraging because it means we were chosen out of love, want, and desire. It's also encouraging because anyone can be adopted into His family!

To me, to be "holy" means that I am devoted to God. I can stand "blameless" before God because Jesus took away all my sins and continues to do so to this very day.

What is scary about predestination is that I could have chosen to not be a part of the church. It is comforting to know that God had planned for me and gave me a choice. I think Paul brings up predestination to let everyone know that they have the oppurtunity to be a part of the church, that not one of us is left out. I think he is praising God because even the Ephesians can become a part of God's church, meaning that to God no one is beyond hope.

To me, being in Christ means that I follow his example. The implication of this for my life is that I am guided and influenced by Him in all that I do, say, and think.

Hi. I'm Sam. I am married to a wonderful man, David. We live on the outskirts of Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA. We have two grown sons, one in college, one living on his own. Our 18yo nephew has come back to live with us for the fourth time since he was 9. He's wanting to get his life straightened out. Becoming 'parents' again at our age is not easy, but we feel that the Lord directed us to take our nephew in again. We just found a new church after being churchless for years. It is a small, intimate setting and we feel right at home there. My nephew will be part of a Young Adults group at our former church (he already knows the youth pastor!). I am blessed to be able to hear the voice of God within me. We are also studying Ephesians at our church. I am so looking forward to really delving in to this book of the bible. I can't wait to 'meet' you all. SamIAm