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We are currently working through the study, Discovering Joy: Not Because Life is Perfect, but because God is Faithful. If you would like to join our study – awesome! We’d love to have you join us.

You have two options:

1. Pick up a copy of the journal at Amazon. Click here and follow along with us.

2. Subscribe (at the bottom of this page) to gain access to our members only section and download a FREE printable copy.

If you have any questions, or need help email me at darlene@darleneschacht.net

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Hi ladies! I’m so excited to journey through Discovering Joy with you over the next 5 Weeks! Each week, we’ll explore three chapters from the book, focusing on finding our joy in Christ regardless of how imperfect the world is around us. To deepen our study, I’d love to invite you to join our Facebook group, Bible Studies by Time-Warp Wife. It’s a warm and welcoming space where we share our thoughts, encourage one another, and grow in faith as we prepare our hearts for the season. I can’t wait to see you there! ❤️

Click here to watch this video on Youtube

The first time our family went to Calgary, my husband decided to try out his new GPS. Now, let me preface this by telling you that this was about 20 years ago. GPS wasn’t quite as advanced as it is now. Back then, the maps weren’t always up-to-date, the voice commands were vague (“Turn left in 500 feet”—where exactly is that?!), and if you missed a turn, it would take forever to recalculate. Sometimes, it even lost the signal entirely.

After driving through rush hour traffic in search of a Mexican restaurant, we both heard enough “recalculating” to know that it was time to forego enchiladas and opt for the nearest drive-thru instead.

I can laugh about it now, but at the time, it wasn’t funny. We were tired, hungry, and just trying to get the kids something to eat.

Aren’t we blessed with modern technology? With the ease of Google Maps? The streets are labeled, the instructions straightforward and clear. And if there’s a roadblock, we’re given an instant detour. No guesswork. No frustration. Just follow the directions, and it will lead you right where you need to be.

Wouldn’t it be nice if life worked that way?

Actually, it does.

God’s commandments lead us right where we need to be. His Word gives us direction, clear instructions, and a safe route forward. If there’s an obstacle, He provides a way around it. All we need to do is follow His Word.

His commands aren’t meant to restrict us; they’re designed to lead us to freedom, salvation, and unspeakable joy. Jesus said in John 15:11, “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” But what exactly had He told us?

Looking back at the previous verse, we see that Jesus connects joy with obedience: “If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love.” And so, we see that the fullness of joy is found not only in our connection to Christ but in obeying His commandments.

Why Does Obedience Bring Joy?

• • It draws us closer to God as we align our hearts with His will.
  • Disobedience leads to guilt, regret, and consequences—like broken relationships and inner strife—that weigh on our hearts.
  • We grow in faith and produce fruit that lasts.
  • We have a clear conscience toward God.

John Piper Said,

“Sin lies. It says that the path of disobedience will produce more pleasure. It won’t. It’s a lie. The pleasures are fleeting (Hebrews 11:25). They are shallow. So the battle to be fought in our hearts is not just how to stop doing bad things so that we can enjoy Jesus. The battle is how to stop believing false things.”

Don’t you just love that wisdom? It reminds us that obedience isn’t about missing out—it’s about walking in truth.

God’s commands aren’t barriers to joy; they’re more like bridges leading us to it. They protect us from harm, draw us closer to Him, and lead us to the abundant life He desires for us. Instead of taking the path that leads to sin and regret, choose the road less traveled, walk in the light, and follow His lead.

This Week’s Challenge

This week, ask yourself: Am I trusting His path or following my own way? Then, take one step of obedience—no matter how small—and notice how it impacts your heart and mindset.

Week at a Glance

Would you like a printable copy of this schedule? If so, click here:

TUESDAY

Watch the Video – Visit Time-Warp Wife to watch this week’s video.
Read Chapter 13 in the study guide.
Begin the Study Guide Questions – Work through the reflection questions for Chapter 13
Check-in on the Community – Share encouragement in the Facebook group.

WEDNESDAY

Fill Out the “Thoughts and Jots” Page – Reflect on Chapter 13 and write down your personal thoughts, prayers, or takeaways.
Engage in the Facebook Group – Share one insight from your reflection and encourage someone else.

THURSDAY

Read Chapter 14 in the study guide.
Begin the Study Guide Questions – Work through the reflection questions for Chapter 14.

FRIDAY

Fill Out the “Thoughts and Jots” Page – Reflect on Chapter 14.
Read Darlene’s closing thoughts on the chapter at timewarpwife.com (or your inbox)
Share Your Reflection in the Facebook Group – How did this chapter speak to you?

SATURDAY

Read Chapter 15 in the study guide.
Begin the Study Guide Questions – Work through the questions for Chapter 15.

SUNDAY (Day Off – Rest & Worship)

MONDAY

Fill Out the “Thoughts and Jots” Page – Reflect on Chapter 15.
Final Community Engagement – Share your closing thoughts for the week in the Facebook group.

This Week’s Bible Verse

Click the image below to view and print a larger resolution

When you purchase a copy of the study guide, you’re actively supporting and strengthening our ministry as we spread the empowering message of the gospel to women across the globe!

We understand that not everyone can purchase the study guide, which is why we provide a printable version exclusively for those facing financial constraints. By subscribing below, you’ll unlock access to these downloadable materials. As part of our community, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the content at your own pace. Plus, as an added treat, you’ll receive periodic devotions from Time-Warp Wife, delivered directly to your inbox. Together, we can grow in faith and discover the abundant blessings of our shared journey. Join us in spreading the empowering message of the gospel to women all around the world.