Mustard Seedish

Spurgeon: Bring True Converts Into the Church

2012-02-07T06:09:00.000-08:00

“We do not consider soul-winning to be accomplished by hurriedly inscribing more names upon our church-roll, in order to show a good increase at the end of the year. This is easily done, and there are brethren who use great pains, not to say arts, to effect it; but if it be regarded as the Alpha and Omega of a minister’s efforts, the result will be deplorable. By all means let us bring true converts into the church, for it is a part of our work to teach them to observe all things whatsoever Christ has commanded them; but still, this is to be done to disciples, and not to mere professors; and if care be not used, we may do more harm than good at this point. To introduce unconverted persons to the church, is to weaken and degrade it; and therefore an apparent gain may be a real loss.”

- Charles Spurgeon (1834-1892)
taken from: The Soul Winner

"Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness? What accord has Christ with Belial? Or what portion does a believer share with an unbeliever? What agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we are the temple of the living God; as God said, “I will make my dwelling among them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Therefore go out from their midst, and be separate from them, says the Lord, and touch no unclean thing; then I will welcome you, and I will be a father to you, and you shall be sons and daughters to me, says the Lord Almighty.” 2 Corinthians 6:14-18

Is Pornography Harmful?

2012-02-03T06:22:00.000-08:00

I love the way this man teaches.

America's Holocaust

2012-01-26T07:50:00.000-08:00

America, as a nation, is highly committed by law and by practice to a form of mass murder…. This nation, which certainly prides itself on its humanitarianism, is in a murderous cycle of violence that makes the Nazi Holocaust look mild by comparison. Nearly 2,000,000 babies are aborted a year in America. Every third baby conceived now is being murdered. Among teenage women there are 736 abortions for every 1,000 births. Among married women abortions now exceed births! More babies are killed than are born. Some would tell us that there is an abortion about every 15 seconds in America.

John MacArthur

The Biblical View on Abortion – Part 1, The article originally appeared (www.gty.org/Resources/Sermons/90-67) at www.gty.org. © 1969-2008. Grace to You. All rights reserved. Used by permission.

I'm reposting this video on this tragic anniversary of Roe vs. Wade.

In Here, This Hiding Place

2012-01-14T19:07:00.000-08:00

This is a poem and video from my friend, Leanne Todd, from her book "The Truth, the Whole Truth, and Nothing But the Truth, So Help Me God"

Centrality of the Home - Voddie Baucham

2012-01-12T06:38:00.000-08:00

This is one of the best sermons on the family and raising children. I wish I would of heard this teaching 20 years ago.

Romans 10:9 "...if you confess with your mouth..."

2012-01-09T23:40:00.000-08:00

My question gets answered at the 9:28 mark of this video!!

Thank you Ray and Tony at Livingwaters!!

10 Indictments to the Modern Church

2012-01-08T17:37:00.000-08:00

I posted this sermon from a pastors conference about a year ago, and I believe it needs a re post. In this day of conventional pragmatism, this is desperately needed in most American churches. I will warn you this is two hours of intense preaching. This sermon brought me to my knees when I heard it for the first time. Please pass this important message along.

Audio and MP3.

Here are a few reviews that will assure you this sermon is well worth your time.

"A superb message! Powerful! Real! Doctrinal! Sincere! Convicting! The doctrinal substance that can be learnt from just listening to this one sermon twice is astonishing. Truly a historic sermon. Praise God!"

"I can't recommend this sermon enough, almost all the issues we are dealing with today, brother Paul deals with. You want to be at a biblical church? Check if the church follows what is talked about from Scripture. Praise God for this message!"

“ A 21st Century 'Ten Shekels and a Shirt'. This message I believe covers some of the most important issues facing the true Church of Jesus Christ in the 21st Century! This message is staggering, shocking, and sobering. There was a stunned silence for 20 minutes after the message was delivered. May God truly see fit to raise up a generation that will go back to the Old Paths of preaching true conversion, preaching against sin, and preaching on the Character of God."

The Principles of Courtship

2012-01-04T11:36:00.000-08:00

This sermon is excellent on the biblical principles courtship. It also addresses the legalism if we go too far. It's about the heart and not rules.

and said, ‘Therefore a Man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’? Matthew 19:5 (Emphasis mine)

http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=11711931483

How (Not) To Raise a Pharisee by Kurt Gebhards

2012-01-04T06:30:00.000-08:00

* Kurt serves as the Pastor of Children’s Ministries at Grace Church.

One dynamic of Children’s Ministries at Grace Community Church is that most of the children we minister to come from Christian families. Many of them are blessed with the sound and systematic teaching from God’s Word both at home and in the church, and even sometimes in school. This is something to be grateful for, but it also presents a unique challenge to those of us in Children’s Ministries. While the world breeds rebels, the church can unwittingly breed hypocrites.

It is the sad testimony of church history that the works and expressions of sacrificial love and devotion of one generation of Christians can quickly turn into legalistic rules and regulations for the next. The convictions of the first generation become the caprice of the second. It is sad and shameful how quickly the Object of wonder and worship of a generation can become the boredom and betrayal of the next. Hypocrisy is an imminent and evident threat to the church of Jesus Christ.

Churched children are seldom given to outright defiance of authority; they are much more susceptible to the poison of Pharisaism. Hypocrisy in the heart is much more difficult to spot than disobedient behavior. The Bible gives us some definite character traits of the pretentious pietist, and here is what they may look like in a child:

His outward behavior and adherence to rules are driven by a desire to please men, not by a love for God with all his heart, soul, mind and strength (Mk. 12:30).Doing good works and having them observed by adults is more important than the action itself (Mt. 6:5).
The child is openly obedient and responsive — asking to pray before bedtime with you — while maintaining a quietly deceitful and rebellious attitude (Gal. 6:7).
He scrupulously observes the letter of the law — like religiously bringing his Bible to church — but neglects the weightier spirit of the law — like sharing his favorite toys with his siblings (Mt. 23:23).
He craves the verbal praises and tangible rewards of his parents and teachers, but cares little for the approbation of God Himself (Jn. 12:43)
Left unchecked by the grace and Word of God, by the time such a child reaches his teenage years, hypocrisy can have entrenched itself.
This teen prefers well-defined, black and white rules, for they give him a sense of certainty that God must surely reward those achievements (Lk. 18:12).
He adds a layer of rules to the Word of God (like not watching any movies, not listening to popular music, et cetera), giving the impression that he holds to a higher standard than Holy Scripture (Mt. 23:4).
He tends to propose personal preferences as, or elevate them above, divine imperatives (Mt. 15:2-3).
He pursues perfectionism (Phil. 3:6), not excellence (Phil. 3:12-14).
He separates himself from others he considers of lesser cultural morality — people whose table manners, courtesy of speech, and refinement of mannerisms do not match middle-class norms (Lk. 15:1-2).
He is judgmental — he excels at fault-finding, he loves to pick verbal fights — and the standard by which he condemns others is not primarily biblical, but personal, preferential, or traditional (Mt. 7:5). He fights against many people, against many issues, but he does not know who he is fighting for.

Hypocrisy is the pretense of virtue or piousness that is contrary to one’s real character. And make no mistake, hypocrisy spreads like an unseen cancer. Everything appears alive and spiritually vital, then suddenly, the person is dull –and soon dead. The Lord specifically warned His disciples, “Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.” (Lk. 12:1) Since hypocrisy is hidden deep within the recesses of the heart, it goes on unchecked and will hollow out its victim from the inside.

One of the dangers is that these outwardly compliant children receive much approval from parents and teachers. So they are encouraged to continue the duplicity unless anti-hypocritical measures are employed. We can certainly teach and militate against hypocrisy in the following ways:

Instead of just dealing with external behavior issues, we should seize every opportunity to help children understand that it is their hearts that generate their actions (Mt. 15:19). In His judgment of man, God looks at the heart (1 Sam.16:7). We should never equate occasions of good behavior (professions of love for Jesus, acts of compliance, et cetera) with saving faith in Jesus. We need to go beyond fixing wrong behavior to helping the child understand that his evil heart can only be changed by the Lord in regeneration.

Emphasize the affections of NT religion. Make sure that we are not just aiming at a young person’s understanding, but that we reach for the heart and its affections.

Do not encourage children to exhibit their talents and gifts to impress others. They should be reminded that all that they are and have are gifts of grace from God (1 Cor. 4:7), and they should not regard themselves more highly than they ought (Rom. 12:3).

Teach the truth about integrity — which comes from the word for “integer” or “whole.” For a child with integrity, whichever way you turn them, they look they same. Who they are at church, is who they are in school, is who they are at home. This is what our kids should be.

Do not be afraid to share our spiritual and moral failures with children in instances where they can identify with our shortcomings. This allows us to be authentic with them. It also allows us to demonstrate our response to God when we have done wrong, and our reliance on Him to continue molding our hearts.

Be authentic in your love for Christ. Genuine desire for Christ is not easily faked. Let your zeal be a barometer by which they measure their own affection for Christ.

Hypocrisy is an insidious danger in Children’s Ministries today. It also threatens each individual home. As parents, it is our job to honor the intention of Psalm 78:4-6:

We will not conceal [the Word of God] from their children, But tell to the generations to come the praises of the LORD, and His strength and His wondrous works that He has done, that they should teach [the law] to their children, that the generation to come might know, even the children yet to be born, That they may arise and tell them to their children.

The Doctrine of Total Depravity

2012-01-03T08:13:00.001-08:00

If we don't get this, we don't get the Gospel.

John 3:16: What Does it Really Say?

2012-01-03T07:21:00.000-08:00

DR. W. R. DOWNING, PASTOR: Pastor William R. Downing is the founding pastor of Sovereign Grace Baptist Church. Prior to his call to the gospel ministry in 1963, he worked as a commercial deep sea diver, construction worker and truck driver. By the grace of God he has faithfully served the Lord as a pastor in six different congregations since entering the ministry . He has also served as a credentialed school teacher and as a professor in several educational institutions, teaching at the college, seminary and graduate school level. His academic degrees include an M.A. in Ed., a Th.M., a Ph.D. in New Testament Studies, and an honorary D.D. He has authored fourteen books and several pamphlets and papers.

EDWARD DALCOUR: President and Founder of the Department of Christian Defense. Dr. Dalcour holds a Master in Apologetics from Columbia Evangelical Seminary and a Doctorate of Philosophy in Dogmatic Theology from North-West University (Potchefstroom Campus, SA). He is an international speaker and has been featured on many Christian and secular Radio and TV Networks. He is a theological contributor to various publications and has written numerous counter-cult and apologetic tracts and pamphlets. He has authored the most current and exegetically treated work on Oneness theology and the Trinity entitled, Definitive Look at Oneness Theology: In the Light of Biblical Trinitarianism.

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T22:35:00.000-08:00

Every year I have my resolutions. Last year I resolved to no resolutions, but this year is different. I've already started on the path of fitness, so my resolution is to keep at it. I also have other "To Do" this year.

Read my Bible more consistently
Spend more time in prayer
Be a better wife and mother
Witness more
Keep up a morning routine so I won't get behind the rest of the day
Getting organized
Do at least one 10 mile hike
Going from a 4 times a week to 6 times a week of exercise
Eating better
Plant a vegetable and an herb garden
Spending more time outdoors with the kids
Read 12 fiction books
Start running
Learn all the functions and operations of my digital camera
Take some really cool photos
Freeze more meals
Teach my boys to read fluently

The Yummie and Super Healthy Green Smoothie

2011-12-23T09:01:00.000-08:00

At church there is the woman who (I think) is a little older than me and she is in amazing shape. She is a fitness instructor who has devoted herself to a healthy lifestyle for herself and her family.

I've been struggling with my weight and with weight loss for about 7 years to the point that I want to change doctors. If I hear him scold me for being overweight one more time, I'm going to scream.

I finally had to be real, I'm a glutton. Not in the obvious way, but in the lonely and secret times. I'm trying to fill a void that only God can fill. I was catching myself more going for the carbs when I was stressed or depressed; like some drug to calm me. Physiologically it works, but only for a short time. It never fills the emptiness that enslaves, leaves me ashamed and feeling hopeless.

For the last few years I've been asking for God's help. I'm so tired of Weight Watchers, Atkins, etc. which I've done a number of times. I've had a measure of success, but I would end up gaining the weight back and then some over a period of time. I also believe it has messed up my metabolism from my constant yo-yo dieting.

Just a side note, I found through research that diets may work for a time, but if you're not getting at least your Basal Metabolic Rate BMR (Minimal amount of calories to keep your organs functioning normally aka. the amount doctors calculate if you were in a coma), you can trigger a starvation response and ultimately starve weight loss.

Anyways, back to the cute skinny lady I go to church with; she told me about the green smoothie. She encouraged me just to start with that and my cravings will decrease and my energy will increase.

The next Monday, I went to the market, and bought all the stuff and started my morning smoothie routine. I was surprised how good they were. You don't taste the greens because they are masked by the fruit. However, one of biggest personality flaws is I never finish what I start, so my smoothie swaging mornings faded. When I grew tired of blending, cutting, buying all the stuff, I slowly gave up.

A few months later, I did some research on the internet on diets. It seems the fad is raw food and...blending green smoothies! There was a 21 day green smoothie challenge, and I read and watched some of the video blogs of personal testimonies of the abundant amount of energy these people had.

At that point, I was in bed for 6 weeks prior recovering from pneumonia, so I had to do something to regain my strength. I decided I was going to give these green smoothies another try, and I was going to do it for at least 21 days.

The results were amazing! I feel so good and I'm addicted to them now. I've been doing my morning "cocktails" for more than three months. There was a day or two when I couldn't get to the store and buy my fix. Honestly, I did not notice a surge of energy when I started the challenge, because it happened gradually. However, when I miss a day of drinking my "Shrek Drink" (As my kids call it), I notice a huge difference in my lack of stamina.

In the fall, I planted a winter garden of spinach, chard, collards, beets, and lettuce. Now I no longer have an excuse for not drinking smoothies every day. Not to mention, I'm getting fresh raw organic leafy veggies straight out of my backyard which is even more nutritious.

I now exercise daily, because my energy is elevated due to my nutrition increase. There are no gimmicks, no fad diets, just pure nutrition and all of my daily fruit and vegetable requirements in one glass at only about 180 calories!

We're in the Christmas season, and there is cream cheese frosting in the refrigerator right now as I type, which was a big temptation for me. In the past, I would sneak a spoonful of it until the entire tub was gone. I wouldn't admit that before, because I would be so disgusted with myself. Who does that? Yuck!!

Now I have no desire to get in to that nasty stuff, because my sweet cravings have pretty much disappeared. Don't get me wrong, I still eat sweets, but my intake is more controlled. This will be the first Christmas of frosted cookies in 2 years now that I've conquered frosting phobia.

I'm determined next year to be my year of weight loss. I've already lost a few pounds just drinking smoothies every day. I'm ready to take my diet and exercise to another level. I haven't been dieting and I've only been exercising by walking with my friend for a year about 4 times a week.

I'm going to work harder at eating better and increasing my exercise to 6 days a week. I went out to run the other day, and I thought I was going to die of a heart attack and my legs felt like they were going to explode. I'm not going to let that stop me. I'm going to be a runner this year. It's always been my dream and only I, with God's, help can make it happen.

Well, it's out there. If you are stumbling on this blog, maybe you can join me. We can keep each other accountable! I believe the reason diets are unsuccessful for the most part is we are not fueling our bodies with enough nutrition to maintain energy and kill cravings. Just by drinking these fresh tasting smoothes, I believe I'm well on the way.

The Basic Green Smoothie

3-4 handfuls of leafy greens
1 banana
1-2 cups of frozen or fresh fruit of your choice
water enough to blend

I add the greens first with a little bit of water to make it smooth, then I add the rest of the ingredients with all the water. Enjoy.

Here is more information and inspiration on the Green Smoothie! Also, she uses a high powered blender, so if you only have a cheap Walmart version like I do, it will do.

Note: You can calculate your BMR and use the Harris Benedict Formula:

To determine your total daily calorie needs to maintain your current weight, multiply your BMR by the appropriate activity factor.. Once you figure this formula, subract calorie intake by diet and/or exercise, but never go below your BMR.

1. If you are sedentary (little or no exercise) : BMR x 1.2

2. If you are lightly active (light exercise/sports 1-3 days/week) : BMR x 1.375

3. If you are moderatetely active (moderate exercise/sports 3-5 days/week) : BMR x 1.55

4. If you are very active (hard exercise/sports 6-7 days a week) : BMR x 1.725

5. If you are extra active (very hard exercise/sports & physical job or 2x training) : BMR x 1.9

Was Jesus Judgemental?

2011-12-18T13:31:00.000-08:00

I wrote to you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people— not at all meaning the sexually immoral of this world, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters, since then you would need to go out of the world. But now I am writing to you not to associate with anyone who bears the name of brother if he is guilty of sexual immorality or greed, or is an idolater, reviler, drunkard, or swindler—not even to eat with such a one. For what have I to do with judging outsiders? Is it not those inside the church whom you are to judge? God judges those outside. "Purge the evil person from among you." 1 Corinthians 5:9-13

Be Careful What You Say to A Person Who Rejects Christ

2011-12-17T20:39:00.000-08:00

To tell the Christ-rejecter that God loves him is to cauterize his conscience as well as to afford him a sense of security in his sins. The fact is, the love of God is a truth for the saints only, and to present it to the enemies of God is to take the children's bread and to cast it to the dogs. ~ A.W. Pink

The Gospel in 12 Minutes

2011-11-16T08:35:00.001-08:00

How to Awaken a Dead and Unregenerate Church? - Steve Lawson

2011-10-22T16:33:00.000-07:00

"Peal back and get rid of the vainer, all of the layers of religiosity and churchianity to get down to the live nerve of what it is to be a follower of Jesus Christ."

Is This All?

2011-10-22T06:42:00.000-07:00

During the school year I don't have time to write much of anything. What a great reminder by John MacDuff of what happens when we don't set our minds on the things above.

Q&A: How to Reach the Youth Culture? - Steve Lawson

2011-10-20T11:11:00.000-07:00

You Might Be a Pragmatist

2011-10-18T08:54:00.001-07:00

I’d imagine most of us on the conservative end of evangelicalism—whether you’re part of the YRR crowd or the OBR (Old, Boring, Reformed) crowd—we understand the wrongheadedness of church growth methodology. It’s easy to see how men like the early pioneers of church growth (Donald McGavran, C. Peter Wagner, Robert Schuller) and their most famous disciples (Bill Hybels, Rick Warren, Joel Osteen) got it wrong.

The theology of the Bible teaches us God is absolutely sovereign over salvation; He alone predestines, calls justifies, and glorifies fallen sinners who are dead in trespasses and sin. Christ is the sovereign head of the church who receives the elect bride from His Father; He alone directs, equips, and grows the church according to the will of the Father. The Holy Spirit is the executor of the Father’s will, drawing the elect to Jesus Christ; He alone regenerates the sinner, seals the elect, and empowers the church for growth and service.

We don’t deny the human element, even as we affirm monergism and divine initiative. God uses means and we’re part of the means He uses to do His work, right? As Paul said, “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth.” And it’s important to see that the apostolic pattern of planting and watering were not according to a pragmatic, “the end justifies the means” approach. Paul, Apollos, and every other exemplary minister of the apostolic age did ministry according to the means God prescribed (i.e., Eph. 4:11-16) and not according to what seemed reasonable to the culture (i.e., 1 Cor. 2:1-5).

The end goal, as well as the means employed to achieve that end, are important to God. So, when we use pragmatic-oriented church growth principles to plant and water, we go against the grain, planting and watering according to the pattern of the flesh rather than the power of the Spirit. That’s wrong. We, along with Paul, want the faith of those who hear us to rest, not “in the wisdom of men but in the power of God” (1 Cor. 2:5).

So, here’s my concern: Are we truly squeaky-clean? Are we free from the charge of pragmatism? Do we condemn in our preaching what we practice in our ministries?

At times, I can imagine the church growth practitioners with wry smiles on their faces. They listen to us condemn the methodologies they’ve openly embraced, while using them to grow our churches and ministries. Sure, there’s a difference in degree, but that only makes our public denouncements all the more hypocritical. After all, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.

When those of us who claim to be Reformed, or Calvinists, or faithful adherents to the Doctrines of Grace (or whatever the most accurate title happens to be for your brand of biblical fidelity), when we eschew in our preaching and teaching what we practice in our ministries, we unwittingly become one of the strongest arguments in support of evangelical pragmatism.

So, just to help you think it through, to provoke you a wee bit, here’s a quick Top 10 list you can use to evaluate yourself and your ministry for signs of pragmatism.

1.If you see ecclesiology as a subset of missiology, you might be a pragmatist.

2.If you believe evangelism rather than edification is the purpose of the church, you might be a pragmatist.

3.If you are trying to figure out what works in evangelism and church growth, and you’re using resources less than 100 years old to answer the question, you might be a pragmatist.

4.If you turn to sociology and psychology rather than theology to help you understand human response, you might be a pragmatist.

5.If you think the feel of your church, the music you play, and what you wear makes it more/less likely for an unbeliever to believe the gospel, you might be a pragmatist.

6.If you are often counting your numbers (e.g., number of visitors, baptisms, and “decisions for Christ,” visitors to your website, sermon downloads, or any other countable sign of growth), you might be a pragmatist.

7.If you feel the need to quote your numbers to establish your credibility, you might be a pragmatist.

8.If you are more concerned with the opinions and comfort-level of unbelievers who visit your church than you are with the opinions of believers in your church, you might be a pragmatist.

9.If your church youth program is designed to accommodate and entertain young people rather than teach and confront them, you might be a pragmatist.

10.If the young set the tone and determine the culture of the church, you might be a pragmatist.

I know that’s a short, somewhat simplistic, and woefully incomplete list, but hey, it’s a start. If any of those points are true of you or your church, you might need to repent. Start by confessing your sin of relying on the flesh and using fleshly methods, and study the Scripture to set a positive course for your ministry.

•Study biblical anthropology so you understand the truth about the human condition and human response (Rom. 1:18–3:18; Eph. 2:1-3).

•Study the true purpose of the church and the pattern of church growth as laid out in Scripture (Eph. 4:7-16; 1 Tim. 3:1-16).

•Study the ways and means of God until you see how opposite they are of the ways and means of man (1 Cor. 1:18–2:5; Jam. 3:13-18).
Learn to live by faith and not by sight; that is to say, stop counting! God’s work is largely invisible, growth takes take time, and wisdom is generally not recognized by her contemporaries, but by all her children (Luke 7:35).

Travis Allen
Director of Internet Ministry
Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, California

180 is Finally Here!

2011-09-26T05:52:00.000-07:00

Pro-choice to Pro-Life...in Seconds!

2011-09-02T10:45:00.000-07:00

Please visit http://180movie.com/ for details.

Spicy Chicken and Tortilla Soup

2011-08-24T19:56:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness is this a good one! I've also stolen many ideas for this recipe and combined it with a spicy, flavorful and satisfying bowl of tasty happiness. I used the tomatoes straight out of the garden and pureed it for a smooth broth. You're gong to love this.

1 whole chicken
4 green onions uncut
1 handful of fresh parsley uncut
5 whole garlic cloves
2 celery stalks
2 whole carrots
5 whole tomatoes
1/4 onion
1 7oz. can of Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce
1 small bag of frozen corn
20.5 oz. can of black beans
2 teaspoons of cumin
4-6 chicken bouillon cubes
10 oz. can of tomato paste
1 cup of rice (optional)

Fixings: Tortilla chips, jack cheese cut into chunks, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges.

Clean chicken and put in a pot of water with green onions, parsley, garlic, carrots and bring to a boil. Cover pot letting out some steam and simmer for at least an hour. Keep an eye on the water level. Remove chicken and vegetables.

After an hour with the pot still simmering, drop in tomatoes for about 15-20 seconds and remove with slotted spoon into cold water to cool. The skin and the hull of the tomatoes should come off easily. Drop the skinned and hulled tomatoes in a blender with the whole can of the Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce (I like it very spicy, so if you want to turn it down, use less peppers) the vegetables (garlic cloves, carrots, celery, etc. from the simmer) and the 1/4 onion and blend until smooth. Pour the blend into the simmering stock.

Stir in the corn, beans, cumin, bouillon cubes to taste, and tomato paste. Strip the meat off of the simmered chicken and add it to the soup. Add rice if you like. Simmer for about another 20 minutes.

Serve in bowls and top it off with crushed tortilla chips, avocado, cilantro and a squeeze of a lime wedge. I also love to top my tortilla soup with cubed jack cheese rather than shred it, so it will goo out on my spoon. Enjoy!

The Godly Home

2011-08-24T16:47:00.000-07:00

The below links are a five part series of The Godly Family by Paul Washer.

Part 1 Audio Sermon (58 minutes)
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=8411133257

Part 2 Audio Sermon (86 minutes)
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=84111413115

Part 3 Audio Sermon (92 minutes)
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=84111419170

Part 4 Audio Sermon (81 minutes)
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=8411156512

Part 5 Audio Sermon (97 minutes)
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=817111243140

41 Evidences Of Pride by Nancy Leigh DeMoss

2011-08-16T14:53:00.000-07:00

1. Do you look down on those who are less educated, less affluent, less refined, or less successful than yourself?

2. Do you think of yourself as more spiritual than your mate, others in your church?

3. Do you have a judgmental spirit toward those who don’t make the same lifestyle choices you do . . . dress standards, how you school your kids, entertainment standards, etc.?

4. Are you quick to find fault with others and to verbalize those thoughts to others? Do you have a sharp, critical tongue?

5. Do you frequently correct or criticize your mate, your pastor, or other people in positions of leadership (teachers, youth director, etc.)?

6. Do you give undue time, attention, and effort to your physical appearance—hair, make-up, clothing, weight, body shape, avoiding appearance of aging?

7. Are you proud of the schedule you keep, how disciplined you are, how much you are able to accomplish?

8. Are you driven to receive approval, praise, or acceptance from others?

9. Are you argumentative?

10. Do you generally think your way is the right way, the only way, or the best way?

11. Do you have a touchy, sensitive spirit? Easily offended? Get your feelings hurt easily?

12. Are you guilty of pretense? Trying to leave a better impression of yourself than is really true? (Would the people at church be shocked if they knew what you were like at home?)

13. Do you have a hard time admitting when you are wrong?

14. Do you have a hard time confessing your sin to God or others? (not just in generalities but specifics)

15. Do you have a hard time sharing your real spiritual needs/struggles with others?

16. Do you have a hard time praying aloud with others?

17. Are you excessively shy?

18. Do you have a hard time reaching out and being friendly to people you don’t know at church?

19. Do you resent being asked or expected to serve your family, your parents, or others?

20. Do you become defensive when you are criticized or corrected?

21. Are you a perfectionist? Do you get irked or impatient with people who aren’t?

22. Do you tend to be controlling—of your mate, your children, friends, those in your workplace?

23. Do you frequently interrupt people when they are speaking?

24. Does your husband feel intimidated by your “spirituality”?

25. Does your husband feel like he can never measure up to your expectations of what it means to be a good husband, spiritual leader, etc.?

26. Do you often complain—about the weather, your health, your circumstances, your job, your church?

27. Do you talk about yourself too much?

28. Are you more concerned about your problems, needs, burdens than about others’ concerns?

29. Do you worry about what others think of you? Too concerned about your reputation or your family’s reputation?

30. Do you neglect to express gratitude for “little things”? To God? To others?

31. Do you neglect prayer and intake of the Word?

32. Do you get hurt if your accomplishments/or acts of service are not recognized or rewarded?

33. Do you get hurt if your feelings or opinions are not considered when your mate or your boss is making a decision or if you are not informed when a change or decision is made?

34. Do you react to rules? Do you have a hard time being told what to do?

35. Are you self-conscious because of your lack of education or natural beauty, or your socio-economic status?

36. Do you avoid participating in certain events, for fear of being embarrassed or looking foolish?

37. Do you avoid being around certain people because you feel inferior compared to them/don’t feel you measure up?

38. Are you uncomfortable inviting people to your home because you don’t think it’s nice enough or you can’t afford to do lavish entertaining?

39. Is it hard for you to let others know when you need help (practical or spiritual)?

40. When is the last time you said these words to a family member, friend, or co-worker: “I was wrong; would you please forgive me?” (If it’s been more than a month, mark it down!)

41. Are you sitting here thinking how many of these questions apply to someone you know? Feeling pretty good that none of these things really apply to you?

© Revive Our Hearts. Used with permission. www.ReviveOurHearts.com Info@ReviveOurHearts.com

Hindrances To A Heavenly Life by Richard Baxter

2011-08-15T07:10:00.000-07:00

Take 10 minutes to hear this timely word.

To Teach Her Children-Raising Future Husbands

2011-08-14T07:29:00.000-07:00

I'm praising the Lord that I had good tests from the doctor and I'm on the mend from a grueling 6 week bout with pneumonia. It's not easy being sick for so long and living with 4 males. In the midst of this illness, I became embittered at the lack of willingness from my husband and sons to help me with dinners, cleaning, etc. It seemed it was still expected of me, and like a good martyr, I went along with my normal duties with resentment and not getting the rest I needed.

At the midpoint I realized I needed help, so I asked my 15 year old how he would show love in a practical way to his future wife. I thought his answer was so honest, "To provide for her." I kind of teased him at first, but I also thought how wonderful it was to think how God wired him. I told him that providing for the family is definitely an important way to show practical love to his future wife, but what happens if she gets sick, and she is no longer able to do the things that need to be done? He really couldn't give me an answer. I would consider my teenage son Kyle to be one of the most sensitive young men I know, so I realized just then that men are wired by God's wonderful design differently, and I had to use my sickness as a teaching opportunity.

I simply told my three boys to help me around the house and gave them each a list. I was amazed at how well and how proud they were to step up to the plate with my household chores. Instead of watching me suffer helplessly, they felt empowered to help their mom get better. I was simply amazed at their positive and even masculine attitude.

How silly I was. I expected my men to pick up the slack and when nobody did, I thought they didn't care about me. How wrong I was. They are wonderfully different, and they need to be directed. For example, let's just say my husband had a small business and he fell ill. How would I like it if he just expected me to pick up where he left off with no directions? How would I feel if he thought, you see me do my job, why don't you just do it? What if he became angry with me because I was unable to read his mind and do what needed to be done? If he gave me a list or told me what to do, I would be more than happy to help him.

A while back, I made a basic housekeeping binder. I have a loose cleaning schedule that I do on my own. My guys need detailed instructions just as I would of I need to take over my husband’s job, so I added a "Sick Mom" tab. I also put in very basic recipes so they can do the grocery shopping, prepares meals the next time I get sick, because that is inevitable. I can honestly tell you it will empower your husband and sons. It's also not a bad idea if you have daughters. My teacher's always told me a Proverbs 31 woman is always prepared. Unfortunately I learn the hard way.

While we're on the subject of being prepared for a sickness, I came away with one tip. Try and to double up on at least one meal a week to freeze while you're well. I wish I would have done this. My cholesterol went up just by eating more take out. It's important to make sure you're not only resting, but eating well too.

After waking up and verbalizing my needs, I was delighted at my husband and sons who really desired to be helpful all along. Even my two younger boys vacuumed and dusted with such enthusiasm. I've never been more proud of them. I remembered something I had forgotten, that men are very different. I expect them to be like me, and how self absorbed is that? I also used the opportunity to teach my boys how to love their wives and die to self.

Recovering Biblical Womanhood - Paul Washer

2011-08-10T10:58:00.000-07:00

"There is nothing more attractive than a woman who has this look of wisdom, and discretion, and nobility and simplicity." Paul Washer

As you can see, I'm a big fan of Paul Washer. I've met him at a meeting last fall, and he is just an everyday brother who loves the Lord and has devoted his life to serve Him. I believe God has raised him up to jar this generation out of our lukewarm sleep through his fiery sermons that have spread over the internet over the past couple of years. He is usually very intense and offensive to many, but in this sermon he is light hearted and funny. I found myself busting out in laughter at myself throughout. I'm also convicted at my silliness and lack of obedience to God's commands as a wife.
Here is the link that you may download on your MP3, listen or watch on video. This will really bless any woman or man.

http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=8611170490

To be Self Controlled: I Look to You

2011-08-10T07:34:00.000-07:00

The last thing I want to do is come of as some expert or someone who has arrived. All you have to do is spend some time with me and you would find out pretty fast that this is not the case. One of my greatest sin is my lack of self control in many areas of my life. It all can stem from fear of man, not being focused, laziness, selfishness etc., but what it really boils down to is my unwillingness to recognise these things as sin and not depending on God and His word.

As I've grown older, I've struggled with weight more than ever. I need to lose 30 pounds. It's not a lot to some, but the weight hasn't budge with exercise and various dieting for about 5 years. I will diet for a while, but fall drastically with binging. This cycle has been going on for some time and I get very discouraged with myself.

I dread going to the doctor because I know he is going to get after me for not losing the weight he told me to. I've done Weight Watchers many times, Atkins, South Beach, you name it; I've even tried a free online Christian weight loss program that really points to the sin of gluttony to no avail. I was discouraged by the legalistic regiments, and feeling dizzy from fasting and going on their "liquid days".

I heard a preacher recently mention that gluttony is the same sin in God's eyes as drunkenness. God freed me of drunkenness almost 18 years ago, so this really struck me. He challenged us to pray without seizing and asking God what to eat. How little I really depend on Him in my day to day life.

Tozar said that, "Christians don't lie, they just sing them." At church we sang "I Need Thee Every Hour". Do I really need Thee every single hour including when I eat? The next time I sing this song, I want the lyrics to be true in my life.

Below is a video about a woman who has struggled with weight her whole life. She's lost 80 lbs with more to go. She wouldn't of done it without her dependence on God. Get ready for some goosebumps.

Facebook and Other Social Networks

2011-08-07T14:32:00.000-07:00

This is a wonderful link about social networks and how they can hurt people if we're not careful. I certainly have done my own share. http://womenlivingwell.org/2011/08/social-media-and-our-friendships/

Alone With Jesus - Octavius Winslow

2011-08-07T13:47:00.000-07:00

To be honest, I've been struggling with many things. This video encouraged my heart so much today. I hope it speaks to you too. Praise our Jesus for His loving embrace. Be alone with Him today.

A Holy Offering to God - Paul Washer

2011-08-06T07:22:00.000-07:00

If you don't have time to watch this sermon, I hope you just watch the first five minutes. Do we really believe the Bible is sufficient? What an indictment!

Perfected Tuna Casserole

2011-08-05T18:45:00.000-07:00

I'm looking forward to autumn, and since we're on the subject of comfort food, why not add another traditional favorite. I took a little bit of my mom's, my past roommate’s, and my sister's recipes that I've stolen over a 20 year period, and developed the perfect tuna casserole. The gooey melted chucks of Swiss cheese is a twist that I couldn't believe I was missing for so long. I don't put crushed potato chips on mine, but go for it if that's your fancy.

1 (12 ounce) package egg noodles
1 cup cubed Swiss cheese
1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese
1 cup frozen green peas
2 (6 ounce) cans tuna, drained
1 (10.75 ounce) cans condensed cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup of mayonnaise
1/2 teaspoon of celery salt

Preparation Instructions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta in boiling water according to package directions until al dente; drain.

In a large bowl, thoroughly mix noodles, 1 cup cubed Swiss cheese, peas, tuna, soup, mayonnaise, and celery salt. Transfer to a 9x13 inch baking dish, and top with remaining 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese.

Cover and bake for 15 minutes in the preheated oven and remove cover for 10 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly.

...To Love Her Children: The Scattering of Seeds by J.R. Miller

2011-08-05T12:53:00.000-07:00

All our thoughts, words, and acts are seeds. They have in them a quality which makes them grow where they fall, reproducing themselves. This is true of the good we do. The mother’s teachings enter the mind and heart of her child as mere germs; but they reappear in the life of the son or daughter, in later years, in strength and beauty, in nobleness of character, and in usefulness of life. Not only is this strange power in the mother’s words; her acts, her habits, her tones of voice, the influences that go forth from her life, are also seeds, having in them a vital principle. Where they lodge, they grow.

You never can lose your mother. She may die, and her body may be borne out of your sight, and laid away in God’s acre. You will see her face and hear her voice no more; no more will her hand scatter the good seeds of truth and love upon your life’s garden. But you have not lost her. Your mind and heart are full of the seeds which fell from her hand along the years. These you never can lose. No hand of death can root them out of your life. They have grown into the very tissues of your character. They reappear in your habits, your dispositions, your feelings and opinions, your modes of thought, your very phrases and forms of speech. You never can lose your mother; the threads of her life are woven inextricably into your life. ~J.R. Miller

Spagetti Chicken - From the Pioneer Woman

2011-08-04T08:32:00.000-07:00

I want to share some tried and true recipes that my family loves. With three growing boys (one being a teenager), my food bill is growing to max capacity. Not only will these recipes be delicious, but easy on the wallet.

This is the only casserole all my boys (including my husband) gobble up. The seasoning salt, and just a touch of cayenne pepper gives this dish the right amount of kick and flavor. It is my family's creamy cheesy comfort food of choice. I omit the pimentos, and sometimes I'll do shortcuts with a readymade rotisserie chicken I get at the store with canned broth. I often double up and freeze for those days I don't have time to cook. This is perfect for potlucks, or sending to a friend in need.

■2 cups Cooked Chicken
■3 cups Dry Spaghetti, Broken Into Two Inch Pieces
■2 cans Cream Of Mushroom Soup
■2 cups Grated Sharp Cheddar Cheese
■1/4 cup Finely Diced Green Pepper
■1/4 cup Finely Diced Onion
■1 jar (4 Ounce) Diced Pimentos, Drained
■2 cups Reserved Chicken Broth From Pot
■1 teaspoon Lawry's Seasoned Salt
■1/8 teaspoon (to 1/4 Teaspoon) Cayenne Pepper
■Salt And Pepper, to taste
■1 cup Additional Grated Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Preparation Instructions

Boil 1 whole chicken or cut up fryer for one hour and pick out the meat to make two cups. Cook spaghetti in same chicken broth until al dente. Do not overcook. When spaghetti is cooked, (Don't forget to save 2 cups of broth) combine with remaining ingredients except additional 1 cup sharp cheddar.

Place mixture in casserole pan and top with remaining sharp cheddar. Cover and freeze up to six months, cover and refrigerate up to two days, or bake immediately: 350 degrees for 45 minutes until bubbly. (If the cheese on top starts to get too cooked, cover with foil).

Posted by Ree on September 5 2009

For more detailed instructions, go to the Pioneer Woman link. http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2007/06/chicken_spaghet/

Use Simplicity in Sharing the Gospel

2011-08-04T06:30:00.000-07:00

John Charles Ryle [1816-1900] was a prolific writer, vigorous preacher, faithful pastor in England, husband of three wives (widowed three times) and the father to five children.

It is a certain fact that deep reasoning and elaborate arguments are not the weapons by which God is generally pleased to convert souls. Simple plain statements, boldly and solemnly made, and made in such a manner that they are evidently felt and believed by him who makes them, seem to have the most effect on hearts and consciences. Parents and teachers of the young, ministers and missionaries, Scripture-readers and district visitors, would all do well to remember this. We need not be so anxious as we often are about defending, proving, demonstrating and reasoning out the doctrines of the Gospel. Not one soul in a hundred was ever brought to Christ in this fashion. We need more simple, plain, solemn, earnest, affectionate statements of simple Gospel truths. We may safely leave such statements to work and take care of themselves. They are arrows from God’s own quiver, and will often pierce hearts which have not been touched by the most eloquent sermon. ~ J.C. Ryle

To Be Sober Minded: What Kind of Woman Am I?

2011-08-01T07:25:00.000-07:00

A few years ago, I received the below list of wisdom from an older woman who got it from her older woman. When I taught Titus 2 a few years back, many people who I would invite would say, "I don't want to be a doormat!" God does not call us to be such a thing. When I read the women of scripture, there was no woman of God that I would call a "doormat". I've known women who are notorious doormats and they can be very manipulative with their loved ones by being the family martyr. I can see how many women will run from submissiveness because of the distortion of it being modeled perhaps from their own mothers. They are just as self seeking as an outright contentious woman. I can be both those women at times more than I realize. Here is a list of "The Doormat Woman", "The Contentious Woman" and "The Sober Minded Woman of God". I've gleaned so much from this list over the years and it never seizes to convict me.

The Doormat Woman:

Motive: People Pleaser
Heart Attitude: Fear and Guilt
Rights: Doesn't feel she has any
Responsibilities: Feels responsible for everything and everyone
Emotions and Self Control: Highly emotional, prone to fear and self-pity
Love Relationships: Being accepted is more important than being loving and truthful
Needs: Lets needs and feeling of others rule over her life
Discernment: Only wants to see strengths, not weaknesses in others
Dealing with Shortcomings: Overly disappointed when sees weaknesses, often devastated
Truth: Afraid to be truthful for fear of angry consequences
Submission: Misunderstands submission
Power: Feels powerless and intimidated
Offense: Stuff offense - stays unresolved

The Contentious Woman

Motive: "...unto self"
Heart Attitude: Resentful
Rights: Recognizes rights and demands them
Responsibilities: More concerned with rights than responsibilities
Emotions and Self Control: Highly emotional and prone to fear, resentment and anger
Love Relationships: Being right is more important than being loving
Needs: Preoccupied with her own feelings and needs
Discernment: Only sees weaknesses
Dealings with Shortcomings: Critical and judgemental when weakness is revealed
Truth: Offers truth through blaming and demands change
Submission: Resents and rejects submission
Power: Wants her own power
Offense: Is quick to be offended

The Sober Minded Woman of God

Motive: "...unto God"
Heart Attitude: Cheerful and willing
Rights: Recognizes rights and lays them down
Responsibilities: More concerned with responsibilities than rights
Emotions and Self Control: In touch with feelings, but not controlled by them
Love Relationships: Being loving is more important than being right
Needs: Listens carefully and is sensitive to the needs of others, but not ruled by them
Discernment: Sees both weaknesses and strengths, but accepts person
Dealings with Shortcomings: Edifies, encourages and strengthens when weaknesses show
Truth: Offers truth and petitions out of love
Submission: Embraces submission
Power: Focuses on God's power and her own powerlessness
Offense: Slow to be offended, willing to admit and resolve it when it occurs

Keeper of the Home - The 31 Day Challenge

2011-07-31T09:48:00.000-07:00

Who are you? Are you a Mary or a Martha? If you're a Martha type, then you may not need this challenge.
I'm pumped! I hear the lyrics of "Eye of the Tiger" in my mind. I've been reading this wonderful blog on how to clean my home in 31 days. I'm not a natural born cleaner and more of a Mary than a Martha. I'm not a lazy person, but I love to hang out with friends, play with my kids, chat online, cook...anything but clean my house. I want a clean house for the peace of having a little slice of heaven, but cleaning is boring and tedious to me. Laundry and cleaning the bathrooms are at the bottom of my not-so-favorites. I'm just keeping it real sisters.

Organization is also an issue. Almost everyday I'm looking for my keys or some other important item. Cleaning and organizing goes against my more imaginative and creative grain. Maybe some of you are more the Mary type. Most people I know are Marthas. They don't get us Marys, but I don't get the Marthas either. There is a balance we all need to strive for. I've known women who cleaned to the point of forgetting to feed their kids. I'm not judging here, because I have the problem at the other end of the spectrum.

I'm ready for the 31 day challenge. It's the perfect time since we're at the end of summer and still have a month before school starts. Who is with me? Check out the link below.

http://31daystoclean.com/

Thoughts on Harry Potter

2011-07-15T22:43:00.000-07:00

I haven't been on my Facebook news feed in a few days, and it's always interesting on what is being talked about around the modern water cooler. Almost every other post is about Harry Potter. There are some who are excited about the last book coming to life on the big screen, and there are those who are warning against it. I'll first disclose that I'm not a fan, and even though I'm a born again Christian, I will not be out with my torch and pitchfork at my local theater this evening.

Before all of the hysteria began, someone loaned me the book. I unknowingly read the first couple of chapters, and I knew it was not something I would enjoy. Later, I viewed one of the movies to see what all the fuss was about, and fell asleep. I just didn't get it. I love a good epic of good and evil, but something about Harry and his friends didn't do it for me. My black and white personality couldn't find the clear distinction between good and evil, which is one of the complaints I hear about the stories. I admit that I'm a big ring geek (The Lord of the Rings), so I understand what it's like to enjoy a story about enduring characters, self sacrifice and heroic journeys.

There are a lot of concerns with the lure of Harry Potter especially with children. Ever since this popular series has exploded into a huge phenomenon, the acceptance of the occult has brought on a life of its own. I visited my local library a few months back, and I saw a display of about a hundred books on witchcraft, how to talk to the dead, making potions, just to name a few. I honestly don't think this would have been showcased in such a way 10 years ago. I've seen many people fall into the traps of Wicca by the glamorization of dark mystic trialling and seen it tear down families. Needless to say, I will not let my boys watch Harry Potter and they don't have an interest. By seeming indifferent to the series, it has made them disinterested . With that being said, I feel I can share some thoughts on why it bothers me that some of my brethern are getting on the band wagon speaking against this popular series in public forums like Facebook. Also, if you're going to speak out against immoral movies, you might as well do all of them.

I'm going to pick on "The Notebook" for example, because I've seen it "liked" by many churched teen girls and it goes unchallenged. You're probably thinking that it is not a fair comparison since Harry Potter and The Notebook are two completely different genres. That may be true, but that does not mean both can't be an equal influence to a vulnerable mind with mixing moral with non moral elements. Before I knew the content of the film, I thought I would fix me some popcorn and watch an old fashion love story. I was shocked, disappointed and embarrassed at the explicit sensuality and flat out fornication.

The sad part about "The Notebook" it was that the main young couple didn't get along unless they were making out. The message was more on uncontrolled lust more than true love. What shocks me more, is the promotion of this over the top erotic romance in mainstream Christian culture in "Christian" movie reviews. Even though there was no nudity, it did not leave much to the imagination with its long drawn out and loud sex scene. Some of the parents speaking out against Harry Potter are allowing their daughters watch things that can be just as destructive. The Notebook undermines purity, parental respect, marriage, and they are opposed in scripture as well as sorcery. The message is wrong of its influences that disenchant and distort a young woman's perfect notion of what love and sex really is, which may cause problems in her future marriage. I can mention more movies, but the point is made.

I also want to warn that the world is watching. I hardly think this should be the hill we all want to die on when it comes to glorifying God. I know many will disagree with me, and they are entitled to their opinion. Before I was saved, a frenzy broke out over the film “The Last Temptation of Christ”. My unregenerate heart went to see it out of rebellion, and curiosity. Looking back, it was the most blasphemous flaunt of evil that will remain wedged in my memory. When we speak out against something that is popular and opposes our beliefs, it fuels the fire.

I met a woman recently who, just by looking at her life, did not know Christ. She is a single parent living with her boyfriend. She was in my home and we were talking and getting to know each other. She knew I was a believer, and one of the first things she said is she read The Golden Compass and Harry Potter. I politely said, "Really, that's nice that you read. I don't read enough", and quickly changed the subject. I could tell she was trying to set up a trap for a debate. I was not going to go there. I was going to love her where she was at and hope a door would open to share the Savior. In my mind I was thinking, "You should of seen the books I read before I was saved; Steven King, Danelle Steel..., quit trying to shock me."

Also, when we are speaking against culture, we make less of Christ. It's fine if you want to discuss and warn those within the church, but to make such an issue of it could divide us from unbelievers. "For what have I to do with judging outsiders? Do you not judge those who are within the church? But those who are outside, God judges."1 Corinthians 5:12. “Whoever speaks, is to do so as one who is speaking the utterances of God; whoever serves is to do so as one who is serving by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen." 1 Peter 4:11

Paul Washer mentions the Harry Potter series at the 5:25 mark of this 8 minutes sermon excerpt. He is spot on.

The Resolutions of Jonathan Edwards

2011-07-12T18:41:00.000-07:00

We all can learn from this 19 year old writer.

The Resolutions of Jonathan Edwards

BEING SENSIBLE THAT I AM UNABLE TO DO ANYTHING WITHOUT GOD' S HELP, I DO HUMBLY ENTREAT HIM BY HIS GRACE TO ENABLE ME TO KEEP THESE RESOLUTIONS, SO FAR AS THEY ARE AGREEABLE TO HIS WILL, FOR CHRIST' S SAKE.

Remember to read over these Resolutions once a week.

1. Resolved, that I will do whatsoever I think to be most to God' s glory, and my own good, profit and pleasure, in the whole of my duration, without any consideration of the time, whether now, or never so many myriads of ages hence. Resolved to do whatever I think to be my duty and most for the good and advantage of mankind in general. Resolved to do this, whatever difficulties I meet with, how many soever, and how great soever.

2. Resolved, to be continually endeavoring to find out some new contrivance and invention to promote the aforementioned things.

3. Resolved, if ever I shall fall and grow dull, so as to neglect to keep any part of these Resolutions, to repent of all I can remember, when I come to myself again.

4. Resolved, never to do any manner of thing, whether in soul or body, less or more, but what tends to the glory of God; nor be, nor suffer it, if I can avoid it.

5. Resolved, never to lose one moment of time; but improve it the most profitable way I possibly can.

6. Resolved, to live with all my might, while I do live.

7. Resolved, never to do anything, which I should be afraid to do, if it were the last hour of my life.

8. Resolved, to act, in all respects, both speaking and doing, as if nobody had been so vile as I, and as if I had committed the same sins, or had the same infirmities or failings as others; and that I will let the knowledge of their failings promote nothing but shame in myself, and prove only an occasion of my confessing my own sins and misery to God. July 30.

9. Resolved, to think much on all occasions of my own dying, and of the common circumstances which attend death.

10. Resolved, when I feel pain, to think of the pains of martyrdom, and of hell.

11. Resolved, when I think of any theorem in divinity to be solved, immediately to do what I can towards solving it, if circumstances do not hinder.

12. Resolved, if I take delight in it as a gratification of pride, or vanity, or on any such account, immediately to throw it by.

13. Resolved, to be endeavoring to find out fit objects of charity and liberality.

14. Resolved, never to do any thing out of revenge.

15. Resolved, never to suffer the least motions of anger towards irrational beings.

16. Resolved, never to speak evil of anyone, so that it shall tend to his dishonor, more or less, upon no account except for some real good.

17. Resolved, that I will live so, as I shall wish I had done when I come to die.

18. Resolved, to live so, at all times, as I think is best in my devout frames, and when I have clearest notions of things of the gospel, and another world.

19. Resolved, never to do any thing, which I should be afraid to do, if I expected it would not be above an hour, before I should hear the last trump.

20. Resolved, to maintain the strictest temperance, in eating and drinking.

21. Resolved, never to do any thing, which if I should see in another, I should count a just occasion to despise him for, or to think any way the more meanly of him. (Resolutions 1 through 21 written in one setting in New Haven in 1722)

22. Resolved, to endeavor to obtain for myself as much happiness, in the other world, as I possibly can, with all the power, might, vigor, and vehemence, yea violence, I am capable of, or can bring myself to exert, in any way that can be thought of.

23. Resolved, frequently to take some deliberate action, which seems most unlikely to be done, for the glory of God, and trace it back to the original intention, designs and ends of it; and if I find it not to be for God' s glory, to repute it as a breach of the 4th Resolution.

24. Resolved, whenever I do any conspicuously evil action, to trace it back, till I come to the original cause; and then, both carefully endeavor to do so no more, and to fight and pray with all my might against the original of it.

25. Resolved, to examine carefully, and constantly, what that one thing in me is, which causes me in the least to doubt of the love of God; and to direct all my forces against it.

26. Resolved, to cast away such things, as I find do abate my assurance.

27. Resolved, never willfully to omit any thing, except the omission be for the glory of God; and frequently to examine my omissions.

28. Resolved, to study the Scriptures so steadily, constantly and frequently, as that I may find, and plainly perceive myself to grow in the knowledge of the same.

29. Resolved, never to count that a prayer, nor to let that pass as a prayer, nor that as a petition of a prayer, which is so made, that I cannot hope that God will answer it; nor that as a confession, which I cannot hope God will accept.

30. Resolved, to strive to my utmost every week to be brought higher in religion, and to a higher exercise of grace, than I was the week before.

31. Resolved, never to say any thing at all against any body, but when it is perfectly agreeable to the highest degree of Christian honor, and of love to mankind, agreeable to the lowest humility, and sense of my own faults and failings, and agreeable to the golden rule; often, when I have said anything against anyone, to bring it to, and try it strictly by the test of this Resolution.

32. Resolved, to be strictly and firmly faithful to my trust, that that, in Proverbs 20:6, A faithful man who can find? may not be partly fulfilled in me.

33. Resolved, to do always, what I can towards making, maintaining, and preserving peace, when it can be done without overbalancing detriment in other respects. Dec. 26, 1722.

34. Resolved, in narrations never to speak any thing but the pure and simple verity.

35. Resolved, whenever I so much question whether I have done my duty, as that my quiet and calm is thereby disturbed, to set it down, and also how the question was resolved. Dec. 18, 1722.

36. Resolved, never to speak evil of any, except I have some particular good call for it. Dec. 19, 1722.

37. Resolved, to inquire every night, as I am going to bed, wherein I have been negligent,- what sin I have committed,-and wherein I have denied myself;-also at the end of every week, month and year. Dec. 22 and 26, 1722.

38. Resolved, never to speak anything that is ridiculous, sportive, or matter of laughter on the Lord' s day. Sabbath evening, Dec. 23, 1722.

39. Resolved, never to do any thing of which I so much question the lawfulness of, as that I intend, at the same time, to consider and examine afterwards, whether it be lawful or not; unless I as much question the lawfulness of the omission.

40. Resolved, to inquire every night, before I go to bed, whether I have acted in the best way I possibly could, with respect to eating and drinking. Jan. 7, 1723.

41. Resolved, to ask myself, at the end of every day, week, month and year, wherein I could possibly, in any respect, have done better. Jan. 11, 1723.

42. Resolved, frequently to renew the dedication of myself to God, which was made at my baptism; which I solemnly renewed, when I was received into the communion of the church; and which I have solemnly re-made this twelfth day of January, 1722-23.

43. Resolved, never, henceforward, till I die, to act as if I were any way my own, but entirely and altogether God' s; agreeable to what is to be found in Saturday, January 12, 1723.

44. Resolved, that no other end but religion, shall have any influence at all on any of my actions; and that no action shall be, in the least circumstance, any otherwise than the religious end will carry it. January 12, 1723.

45. Resolved, never to allow any pleasure or grief, joy or sorrow, nor any affection at all, nor any degree of affection, nor any circumstance relating to it, but what helps religion. Jan. 12 and 13, 1723.

46. Resolved, never to allow the least measure of any fretting uneasiness at my father or mother. Resolved to suffer no effects of it, so much as in the least alteration of speech, or motion of my eye: and to be especially careful of it with respect to any of our family.

47. Resolved, to endeavor, to my utmost, to deny whatever is not most agreeable to a good, and universally sweet and benevolent, quiet, peaceable, contented and easy, compassionate and generous, humble and meek, submissive and obliging, diligent and industrious, charitable and even, patient, moderate, forgiving and sincere temper; and to do at all times, what such a temper would lead me to; and to examine strictly, at the end of every week, whether I have done so. Sabbath morning. May 5, 1723.

48. Resolved, constantly, with the utmost niceness and diligence, and the strictest scrutiny, to be looking into the state of my soul, that I may know whether I have truly an interest in Christ or not; that when I come to die, I may not have any negligence respecting this to repent of. May 26, 1723.

49. Resolved, that this never shall be, if I can help it.

50. Resolved, I will act so as I think I shall judge would have been best, and most prudent, when I come into the future world. July 5, 1723.

51. Resolved, that I will act so, in every respect, as I think I shall wish I had done, if I should at last be damned. July 8, 1723.

52. I frequently hear persons in old age, say how they would live, if they were to live their lives over again: Resolved, that I will live just so as I can think I shall wish I had done, supposing I live to old age. July 8, 1723.

53. Resolved, to improve every opportunity, when I am in the best and happiest frame of mind, to cast and venture my soul on the Lord Jesus Christ, to trust and confide in him, and consecrate myself wholly to him; that from this I may have assurance of my safety, knowing that I confide in my Redeemer. July 8, 1723.

54. Whenever I hear anything spoken in conversation of any person, if I think it would be praiseworthy in me, Resolved to endeavor to imitate it. July 8, 1723.

55. Resolved, to endeavor to my utmost to act as I can think I should do, if, I had already seen the happiness of heaven, and hell torments. July 8, 1723.

56. Resolved, never to give over, nor in the least to slacken, my fight with my corruptions, however unsuccessful I may be.

57. Resolved, when I fear misfortunes and adversities, to examine whether I have done my duty, and resolve to do it, and let the event be just as providence orders it. I will as far as I can, be concerned about nothing but my duty, and my sin. June 9, and July 13 1723.

58. Resolved, not only to refrain from an air of dislike, fretfulness, and anger in conversation, but to exhibit an air of love, cheerfulness and benignity. May 27, and July 13, 1723.

59. Resolved, when I am most conscious of provocations to ill nature and anger, that I will strive most to feel and act good-naturedly; yea, at such times, to manifest good nature, though I think that in other respects it would be disadvantageous, and so as would be imprudent at other times. May 12, July 11, and July 13.

60. Resolved, whenever my feelings begin to appear in the least out of order, when I am conscious of the least uneasiness within, or the least irregularity without, I will then subject myself to the strictest examination. July 4, and 13, 1723.

61. Resolved, that I will not give way to that listlessness which I find unbends and relaxes my mind from being fully and fixedly set on religion, whatever excuse I may have for it-that what my listlessness inclines me to do, is best to be done, etc. May 21, and July 13, 1723.

62. Resolved, never to do anything but duty, and then according to Ephesians 6:6-8, to do it willingly and cheerfully as unto the Lord, and not to man: knowing that whatever good thing any man doth, the same shall he receive of the Lord. June 25 and July 13, 1723.

63. On the supposition, that there never was to be but one individual in the world, at any one time, who was properly a complete Christian, in all respects of a right stamp, having Christianity always shining in its true luster, and appearing excellent and lovely, from whatever part and under whatever character viewed: Resolved, to act just as I would do, if I strove with all my might to be that one, who should live in my time. January 14 and July 13, 1723.

64. Resolved, when I find those ‹groanings which cannot be uttered (Romans 8:26), of which the Apostle speaks, and those breakings of soul for the longing it hath, of which the Psalmist speaks, Psalm 119:20, that I will promote them to the utmost of my power, and that I will not be weary of earnestly endeavoring to vent my desires, nor of the repetitions of such earnestness. July 23, and August 10, 1723.

65. Resolved, very much to exercise myself in this, all my life long, viz. with the greatest openness, of which I am capable of, to declare my ways to God, and lay open my soul to him: all my sins, temptations, difficulties, sorrows, fears, hopes, desires, and every thing, and every circumstance; according to Dr. Manton' s 27th Sermon on Psalm 119. July 26, and Aug.10 1723.

66. Resolved, that I will endeavor always to keep a benign aspect, and air of acting and speaking in all places, and in all companies, except it should so happen that duty requires otherwise.

67. Resolved, after afflictions, to inquire, what I am the better for them, what am I the better for them, and what I might have got by them.

68. Resolved, to confess frankly to myself all that which I find in myself, either infirmity or sin; and, if it be what concerns religion, also to confess the whole case to God, and implore needed help. July 23, and August 10, 1723.

69. Resolved, always to do that, which I shall wish I had done when I see others do it. August 11, 1723.

70. Let there be something of benevolence, in all that I speak. August 17, 1723.

Divided

2011-07-11T22:56:00.001-07:00

I'm not a hard core FIC person, but there is a lot to glean from this documentary. "What an indictment on the family. Obviously youth ministry has its problems, but the failure lies almost entirely on the parents." A comment from the "Divided" official website.

Official Divided the Movie (HD Version) from NCFIC on Vimeo.

Are We Leading By Example?

2011-06-08T08:43:00.000-07:00

The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed. Titus 2:3-5 (KJV)

Now that I'm middle age, I feel I can speak my mind on this matter. My heart is heavy over young families that are over burdened in church ministries. In chapter 2 of Titus there is an order of the congregation. The older men are to teach the younger men, and the older women to do the same with the young women. Much of being "teacher's of good things" to a younger person is living by example. Young families need older women and men desperately in a time where families are struggling.

I remember when I was a little girl going to church with my grandparents. The place was buzzing of older men and women holding babies in the nursery, helping in the office, doing logistics, supervising Sunday schools, initiating evangelistic outreaches, helping the homeless, etc. My grandfather spent his last year of his life in South America helping build a church. Back in the day not too long ago, there was a respect for these older people who were giving themselves to young families, local congregations, communities and even the world. We come to our day, and why don't I see this anymore?

Today much of the ministries in churches are led by young families, especially children's ministries. If they didn't do it, the ministries may not exist. New families especially are being neglected of mentoring and practical help from the older generation like never before. Newly married couples with families need to be in meetings on Sunday in order to be refreshed, learning, gaining strength and encouragement from God's word. They need that time to be taught with their own spouses and children so they can grow for the next generation. I can only offer my own opinion in hopes to make an older person to think and evaluate.

We live in an entitlement age. We are told by our culture we are owed something, and this is constantly drilled into our minds daily on TV, commercials, even "Christian" books, media and music. The Sinatra mantra of doing things "my" way duped millions to believe the unbiblical mindset of retirement. The lie of finally getting to rest and enjoy the rest of our lives promises fulfillment. The children are grown and moved away, and we finally get to enjoy the fruit of our labor. We've worked hard and now it's my time to enjoy! Ok, here is the kicker; where is that in scripture? The last I heard, the church is not supposed to be a retirement club.

Not only have young families suffered from this fall out, but the baby boomer generation also is hurting themselves. Many senior saints suffer from isolation, depression, loneliness, to mention a few maladies. There are many reasonably healthy retirees waiting by the phone for their grown children to call as they watch TV. If they would only get out of their comfort zone and give a small portion of their time, it would help the church tremendously. Many people who were strugging with an empty nest say that volunteering outside of their home has been a life saver. There is no better living than giving ourselves to the Lord's service.

On the other hand, I've also noticed the lack of honor with young adults. As I become an older woman going into my mid forties, I am astounded at the lack of respect of those older in churches. Young immature people are put in positions of leadership are often treating those who are older with contempt and condescension, that I walk away disappointed at times. This could be a reason why so many older people will not serve in church ministry. I understand, and I hate to say it, but there is no excuse. We are called as Christians to put our boots on, forgive, be the better person and live by example.

“I'll not willingly offend, Nor be easily offended; What's amiss I'll strive to mend, And endure what can't be mended” Isaac Watts

This lack of honor to those older could be a result of a lack of teaching from the parents, or (Don't get mad) maybe we need to look in the mirror. Are we honorable? I'm not saying that younger people should not honor, but are we living by example? Are we honoring those who are older than us? Are we showing love to those who are younger? Are we spending time talking to young people, helping out with their children and showing true sacrifice? In all practicality, respect is not earned, but sown.

I've also heard a very respected teacher that I love, but I respectfully disagree with on this issue that we are to do what we want. I'm paraphrasing, but he said If we don't want to do a ministry, than that is what God's will is. I found this an odd thing coming out of one of the most renowned expository preachers in our day, especially since most of the people throughout scripture were reluctant participants in what God called them to do. Look at Moses how he wanted anyone but himself to deliver Israel. What about Jonah and not wanting to go to Nineveh and face the most ruthless land of that time? Think of Esther who had risk her own life to go in front of the king in hopes to spare her beloved people. These are just a few among most of the people in scripture who were reluctant at their God given assignments. Even Christ Himself shows intense fear and reluctance in the garden of Gethsemane to the point of sweating blood when He asked the Father to let the cup pass from Him, which was His Father's wrath.

At the same time we have to be careful not to spend too much time in ministry. There is a balance. I speak from my own experience, and I finally had to stop feeling guilty about not filling every hole of ministry, because I still have young children. After spending at least half of my time out of church doing children's ministries as a young married woman with a baby, I look back with a little regret. I don't know if I grew as much as I should of during that time. I'm now learning to say "I'm sorry, but I can't..." more. I've wondered if I was falling into the same pitfall of entitlement as some of my older friends, but as I've studied Titus 2:3-5 over the years, I've become wiser with my time. I've learned by my mistakes by not being such a people pleaser and setting my own pace and calendar given the time that I have available. My ultimate purpose is to please God and obey His word. My work is supposed to be in the home, and the needs of church should not impose on that. There will be a season in my life that I will devote more time to ministry. I always tell young people, if you're stressed to the point of being jumpy and you're snapping at your children, you may need to back off of ministry for a time.

Going back to the point of this post; I wonder what would happen if these young people decided not to do the nursery and children's church. Maybe the crying of babies, and the kicking of pew seats from youngsters during the service would motivate older women to pitch in. Hmmmmm....

Sobering- Are We Really Being Biblical or Traditional?

2011-04-13T12:20:00.000-07:00

Sermon excerpts from: "The Centrality of the Home" - Voddie Baucham

My issue is not youth groups, but the lackadaisical attitude toward the importance of teaching parental discipleship.

Take Heed What You Read - Arthur Pink

2011-04-13T11:00:00.000-07:00

"Take heed what you hear" (Mark 4:24): the word "hear" obviously includes what is read, for that which is written or printed is addressed to the ears of our intellect. Few people today realize the urgent need for "taking heed" unto what they read. Just as the natural food which is eaten either helps or hinders the body—so the mental food we receive either benefits or injures the mind, and that, in turn, affects the heart. Just as it is harmful to listen to the rubbish and poison which is being served from the great majority of present-day pulpits—so it is exceedingly injurious to the soul to read most of what is now being published. "Take heed what you hear" and read! But let us seek to be more specific.

The only thing which is really worth calling "religion" is the life of God in the soul-commenced, carried on, and consummated solely by the Holy Spirit. Hence, whatever does not bear the impress of the Spirit's unction, should be rejected by the Christian: for not only can unctionless messages do us no good—but what proceeds not from the Spirit—is of the flesh. Here, then, is the test which God's children ought to apply unto all they hear, and here is the balance in which they should weigh all that they read. True, there are varying degrees of the Spirit's unction. As it is in the natural so it is in the spiritual—there will be a varying amount of wetness from the faintest moisture of dew—as compared to the copious shower. As there had to be "salt" in every sacrifice (Lev. 2:13), so every discourse or article proceeding from the Spirit's aid, is "seasoned with salt" (Colossians 4:6). But O how very much today is devoid of spiritual savor and flavor!

Some of God's dear people may suppose that it would be presumptuous to set themselves up as judges of what they hear or read—but that is a serious mistake, being both a false humility, and a shirking of duty. The Apostle rebuked the Hebrews because their senses (spiritual faculties) were not developed so as to discern between good and evil (Hebrews 5:13). With as much reason, might it be termed pride for anyone to pass judgment upon the groceries or meats purchased from the stores. Others may ask, "But how are simple and unlearned souls to distinguish between the different religious publications of the day?" Very simply: in sampling your natural food how do you determine whether or not it be seasoned? By your natural taste, of course. So it is spiritually: the "new man" has a palate too! If the God of creation has given us natural palates for the purpose of distinguishing between wholesome and unwholesome food, the God of grace has furnished His people with a capacity, a spiritual sense, to distinguish between nutritious and unwholesome soul food.

"Just as the mouth tastes food—the ear tests the words it hears" (Job 34:3). Does yours, my reader? Are you as careful about what you take into your mind—as what you take into your stomach? You certainly ought to be, for the former is even more important than the latter. If you eat some material food which is injurious, you can take a purgative and get rid of the same; but if you have devoured mental food which is injurious, it stays with you! "The ear tests the words it hears." Again, we ask, Does yours, dear reader? Are you learning to distinguish between "letter" and "spirit;" between the "form" and the "power;" between that which is of the earth and that which is from Heaven; between that which is lifeless and unctionless and that which is instinct with the breath of God? If the answer is 'No', then you are greatly the loser.

How many of God's dear children listen to the automaton "letter" preachers of today, and yet find nothing suited to the needs of their poor souls! And how many are subscribing for one magazine after another, hoping to find that which will the better furnish them to fight the good fight of faith—only to be disappointed? What they hear and what they read does not penetrate and grip—it has no power—it neither breaks down nor lifts up—it produces neither godly sorrow nor godly joy. The messages they hear or read, fall upon their ear like an idle or twice-told tale—it completely fails to reach their case or minister to their needs. They are no better off after hearing a hundred such "sermons" or reading through a hundred such periodicals, than they were at the beginning! They are no farther from the world—and no nearer unto God!

It is often a long time before God's children are able to account for this. They blame themselves; they are exceedingly loath to say, "This message is not of God." They are afraid to act in the spiritual, as they do in the natural, and condemn and discard that which is worthless. While they feel a lack of power in the sermons they hear, or the articles they read, and while their souls steadily get dried up like a potsherd—they are slow to realize that this is the inevitable effect of the unctionless preaching they listen to, or the unctionless literature they read; and that such dryness and leanness of soul is inevitable—by their association with unhumbled and empty professors. But in due time God opens their eyes, and they see through the flimsy veil and discover that both the sermons they hear, and the literature they read—are only the product of a dead profession!

Ah, it is a great thing when once the Holy Spirit teaches a soul—that it is power which is lacking from the lifeless preaching and lifeless articles of dead professors. It is power which the renewed soul seeks—a message which has power to search his conscience, to pierce him to the quick, to write it upon his heart; a message which has power to bring him to his knees in broken-hearted confession to God; a message which has power to make him feel that he is "vile"; a message which has power to drive him to Christ, for the binding up of his wounds, for Him to pour in "oil and wine," and send him on his way rejoicing. Yes, what the renewed soul longs for (though at first he knows it not) is that Divine message which comes to him "not simply with words—but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and with deep conviction!" (1 Thessalonians 1:5).

Sooner or later, every Christian comes to value "power," and to count as worthless, whatever lacks it. It is by Divine power, that he is taught in his own soul, by which he is made to feel acutely his sinnership, his carnality, his beggarliness. It is Divine power working in his heart—the same power which brought Christ again from the dead (Eph. 1:19, 20)—which draws his affections unto things above and makes his soul pant after God "as the deer pants after the water brooks" (Psalm 42:1). It is this Divine power working in him which reveals to his burdened spirit the Throne of Grace, and causes him to implore mercy and to seek grace "to help in time of need." It is this Divine power working in him, which makes him cry "Make me walk along the path of Your commands—for there I find delight" (Psalm 119:35).

Those who are partakers of this Divine power (and they are few in number) can never be satisfied with a powerless ministry, either oral or written.

"Those who live according to the flesh—have their minds set on what the flesh desires," (Romans 8:5). They are charmed with oratorical eloquence, catchy sayings, witty allusions, and amusing illustrations. On just such "husks", do the religious "swine" feed!

But the penitent prodigal can find no nutriment therein! Men "of the world"—and they may be graduates from some "Bible Institute" or possessors of a diploma from some Bible Seminary, now styling themselves "preachers of the Gospel"—will speak of the things of the world and "the world hears them" (1 John 4:5). But those who are seeking to "work out their own salvation with fear and trembling" obtain no help therefrom, yes, they perceive clearly that such sermons and periodicals are "broken cisterns, which can hold no water" (Jer. 2:13).

"Take heed what you hear" and read! More than forty years ago the saintly Adolph Saphir wrote, "I think the fewer books we read—the better. It is like times of cholera, when we should only drink filtered water." What would he say if he were on earth today and glanced over the deadly poison sent forth by the heterodox, and the lifeless rubbish put out by the orthodox? Christian reader, if you value the health of your soul, cease hearing and quit reading all that is lifeless, unctionless, powerless, no matter what prominent or popular name be attached thereto. Life is too short to waste valuable time on that which does not profit. Ninety-nine out of every hundred of the religious books, booklets, and magazines now being published, are not worth the paper on which they are printed!

To turn away from the lifeless preachers and publishers of the day—may involve a real cross. Your motives will be misconstrued, your words perverted, and your actions misinterpreted. The sharp arrows of false report will be directed against you. You will be called proud and self-righteous, because you refuse to fellowship empty professors. You will be termed censorious and bitter—if you condemn in plain speech—the subtle delusions of Satan. You will be dubbed narrow-minded and uncharitable, because you refuse to join in singing the praises of the "great" and "popular" men of the day. More and more, you will be made to painfully realize—that the path which leads unto eternal life is "narrow" and that FEW there are who find it. May the Lord be pleased to grant unto each of us—the hearing ear and obedient heart! "Take heed what you hear" and read!

What is Life All About?

2011-03-25T12:34:00.000-07:00

As a church family member for nearly 18 years, I along with my brothers and sisters in Christ, watched a boy grow up. When I was 28 years old, I embarked on being a Sparks Awana leader for the first time, and I had the privilege of ministering to Rudy Acosta when he was only six. On March 19, 2011, the Lord took the boy we remembered, and the man who served our country with courage and honor home to be with Him. He was killed in action in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan. As I think and pray for his family, and reflect on the sweet face I remember so vividly, I'm reminded why we are here, and that our life is only a vapor.

Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away. James 4:14

Question: What is life all about?

Answer: Our life is to glorify God.

The Gospel ~ Good News

God The Glorious Creator

All of creation was made to glorify God (Genesis 1:1, Psalm 104:31, Psalm 72:19, Psalm 19:1) and we are made to do the same. We are made in His image to bring glory to Him. (Genesis 1:27) Glorifying God is why we exist.

Everyone who is called by My name, And whom I have created for My glory, Whom I have formed, even whom I have made." Isaiah 43:7

Ascribe to the LORD, O families of the peoples, Ascribe to the LORD glory and strength. Ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name; Bring an offering, and come before Him; Worship the LORD in holy array. 1 Chronicles 16:28-29

We glorify God when we love and obey Him.

And He (Jesus) said to him, " 'YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND.' "This is the great and foremost commandment. Matthew 22:37-38

Man has failed to glorify God because man only loves himself and is constantly disobedient.

For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, unloving, irreconcilable, malicious gossips, without self-control, brutal, haters of good, treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, 2 Timothy 3:2-4

We sin and fail to glorify God in our actions.

All of us like sheep have gone astray, Each of us has turned to his own way;...Isaiah 53:6a

Instead of loving and obeying God, man has followed the ways of this sinful world, Satan, and his own lusts.

in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience. Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest. Ephesians 2:2-3 (emphasis added)

Think of ways we all have failed to glorify God: Lying, stealing, gossiping, cheating, adultery, murder, etc. Even going through the 10 Commandments in Exodus 20 will show our failures. If you ever broken one, you've broken them all.

Man has miserably failed to love and obey god to bring Him the glory He deserves. That is what Romans 3:23 means when it says,

for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,

God The Glorious Judge

God is glorified by calling all man to judgement. (Hebrews 9:27, Revelation 20:11-12) God is glorified by His proper punishment of sinners.

The Son of Man (Jesus) will send forth His angels, and they will gather out of His kingdom all stumbling blocks, and those who commit lawlessness, and will throw them into the furnace of fire; in that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Matthew 13:41-42

In glorifying God for His punishment of sinners, the people already in Heaven cry,

O Lord God, the Almighty; Righteous and true are Your ways, Revelation 15:3e

God The Glorious Savior

God's glorious saving love through creation and through judgement:

It is wonderful beyond compare that He has chosen to glorify Himself by saving hopeless, lost sinners!

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. John 3:16

God's glorious love was demonstrated when He punished and killed His Son Jesus in our place.

But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8

He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him over for us all, how will He not also with Him freely give us all things? Romans 8:32

But the LORD was pleased to crush Him, putting Him to grief; If He would render Himself as a guilt offering... Isaiah 53:10

...Because He poured out Himself to death, And was numbered with the transgressors; Yet He Himself bore the sin of many, And interceded for the transgressors. Isaiah 53:12

Jesus, God's Son, took our wrath and punishment through His death on the cross. Than God raised Him from the dead and He lives forever. His resurrection proves that 100% of the punishment for sin was paid.

He who was delivered over because of our transgressions, and was raised because of our justification. Romans 4:25

IF WE REPENT OF SIN AND HAVE FAITH IN CHRIST, WE ARE SAVED.

A change of heart to turn from loving yourself and sin and begin to love and obey God is called REPENTANCE.

A new confidence in Christ to forgive all your sin and to be your new Lord (Master) is called FAITH

Jesus said, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel." Mark 1:15 (emphasis added)

Repentance and Faith are essential for salvation.

...how I did not shrink from declaring to you anything that was profitable, and teaching you publicly and from house to house, solemnly testifying to both Jews and Greeks of repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. Acts 20:20-21

Repent and Believe Today!

Behold, now is "THE ACCEPTABLE TIME," behold, now is "THE DAY OF SALVATION"-- 2 Corinthians 6:2b

Do you feel deeply sorry and regretful for your sin and failure to glorify God?
Do you truly believe Jesus died in your place, has taken your punishment, and will forgive you?
Do you truly desire to begin obeying Him as the Lord (Master) of your life?

If God has changed your heart, and you now believe these things to be true, then express your faith to God.

*The Great Answer to the Great Question by Anchored in Truth Ministries

Modesty and the Gospel

2011-03-18T08:17:00.000-07:00

He's Right!

2011-02-23T06:17:00.000-08:00

Paul Washer raises 10 Indictments to the modern church in America. Entire sermon can be viewed here.

Paul Washer is an itinerant preacher and director of Heartcry Missionary Society.

The Loneliness of the Christian By A.W. Tozer

2011-02-21T13:41:00.000-08:00

"Most of the World’s GREAT SOULS have been lonely. Loneliness seems to be one price the saint must pay for his saintliness.

Enoch, Noah, Abraham and Moses all walked a path quite apart from their contemporaries even though many people surrounded them.

The prophets of pre-Christian times differed widely from each other, but one mark they bore in common was their enforced loneliness.

Jesus died alone in the darkness hidden from the sight of mortal man and no one saw Him when He arose triumphant and walked out of the tomb, even though many saw Him afterward and bore witness to what they saw.

The cheerful denial of loneliness proves only that the speaker has never walked with God without the support and encouragement afforded him by society. The sense of companionship that mistakenly attributes to the presence of Christ may and probably does arise from the presence of friendly people. Always remember: you cannot carry a cross in company. Though a vast crowd surrounds a man, his cross is his alone and his carrying of it marks him as a man apart. Society has turned against him; otherwise he would have no cross. No one is a friend to the man with a cross. “They all forsook Him and fled.”

The loneliness of the Christian results from his walk with God in an ungodly world, a walk that must often take him away from the fellowship of good Christians as well as from the unregenerate world. His God-given instincts cry out for companionship with others who can understand his longings, his aspirations, and his absorption in his love for Christ; and because within his circle of friends there are so few who share his inner experiences he is forced to walk alone.

The man who has passed on into the divine Presence in actual inner experience will not find many who understand him. A certain amount of social fellowship will of course be his as he mingles with religious persons in regular activities of the church, but true spiritual fellowship will be hard to find.

The truly spiritual man is indeed something of an oddity. He lives not for himself but to promote the interests of Another. He seeks to persuade people to give all to his Lord and asks no portion or share for himself. He delights not to be honored but to see his Saviour glorified in the eyes of men. His joy is to see Jesus promoted and himself neglected. He finds few who care to talk about that which is the supreme object of his interest, so he is often silent and preoccupied in the midst of noisy religious shoptalk. For this he earns the reputation of being dull and over-serious, so he is avoided and the gulf between him and society widens. He searches for friends upon whose garments he can detect the smell of myrrh and aloes and cassia out of the ivory palaces, and finding few or none he, like Mary of old, keeps these things in his heart.

It is this very loneliness that throws him back upon God. His inability to find human companionship drives him to seek in God what he can find nowhere else. He learns in inner solitude what he could not have learned in the crowd-that Christ is All in All.

Two things remain to be said about the man that is in this state of loneliness. First, he is not a haughty man, he is not holier-than-thou, and he is not an austere saint. He is likely to feel that he is the least of all men and is sure to blame himself for his loneliness. He wants to share his feelings with others and to open his heart to some like-minded soul who will understand him, but the spiritual climate around him does not encourage it, so he remains silent and tells his grief to God alone.

The second thing is that the lonely saint is not the withdrawn man who hardens himself against human suffering and spends his days contemplating the heavens. The opposite is true. His loneliness makes him sympathetic to the approach of the brokenhearted and the fallen and the sin-bruised. Because he is detached from the world he is all the more able to help it.

The weakness of so many modern Christians is that they feel too much at home in the world. In their effort to achieve restful “adjustment” to an unregenerate society they have lost their pilgrim character and become an essential part of the very moral order against which they are sent to protest. The world recognizes them (modern Christians) and accepts them for what they are. This is the saddest thing that can be said about them. They are not lonely, but neither are they saints."

Are We Really Discerning?

2011-02-19T12:47:00.000-08:00

For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you have need again for someone to teach you the elementary principles of the oracles of God, and you have come to need milk and not solid food. For everyone who partakes only of milk is not accustomed to the word of righteousness, for he is an infant. But solid food is for the mature, who because of practice have their senses trained to discern good and evil. Hebrews 5:12-14.

I am a perverse and unruly patient!

2011-02-12T11:21:00.001-08:00

“I, John Newton, have long labored under a multitude of grievous disorders:

a fever of ungoverned passions,

a cancer of pride,

a frenzy of wild imaginations,

a severe lethargy, and

a deadly stroke!

In this deplorable situation, I suffered many things from many physicians, spent every penny I had—yet only grew worse and worse!
In this condition, Jesus, the Physician of souls, found me when I sought Him not. He undertook my recovery freely, without money and without price—these are His terms with all His patients! My fever is now abated, my senses are restored, my faculties are enlivened! In a word, I am a new man! And from His ability, His promise, and the experience of what He has already done—I have the fullest assurance that He will infallibly and perfectly heal me—and that I shall live forever as a monument of His power and grace!”

Petty Wars Over Abstruse Points and Unimportant Questions

2011-02-11T08:54:00.001-08:00

Be careful to devote yourself to good works. Avoid foolish questions. Titus 3:8-9
Our days are few, and are far better spent in devoting ourselves to good works, than in disputing over matters which are, at best, of minor importance. Incessant discussion of subjects of no practical value, do a world of mischief. Our churches suffer much from petty wars over abstruse points and unimportant questions. After everything has been said that can be said--neither party is any the wiser! Therefore, the discussion no more promotes knowledge, than love! It is foolish to sow in so barren a field.

Questions upon . . .

points wherein Scripture is silent;

mysteries which belong to God alone;

prophecies of doubtful interpretation;

modes of observing mere human ceremonies --are all foolish!

Wise men will avoid them! Our business is neither to ask nor answer foolish questions--but to avoid them altogether! If we observe the apostle's precept to be careful to devote ourselves to good works--we shall find ourselves far too much occupied with profitable business--to take much interest in unworthy, contentious, and needless strivings! There are, however, some questions which are the reverse of foolish--which we must not avoid--but fairly and honestly answer, such as these:

Am I growing in grace and Christ-likeness?

Does my life adorn the doctrine of my Savior?

What more can I do for Jesus?

Such inquiries as these, urgently demand our attention! If we have been at all given to arguing and disputing, let us now turn to a service so much more profitable. Let us endeavor to lead others, both by our precept and example, to "avoid foolish questions." ~ Charles Spurgeon

The Miracle of Life

2011-02-02T05:32:00.000-08:00

This video was featured at my church and it's absolutely beautiful! My prayer for any woman who finds themselves pregnant with an unwanted pregnancy, that they would explore all of their options and at least talk to a compassionate counselor at a local pregnancy center.

A Word to the Brothers

2011-01-30T06:31:00.000-08:00

This is an encouraging as well as a convicting word to my brothers. The same message is for me and my sisters.

Gossip

2011-01-20T08:55:00.000-08:00

What a rebuke that these ladies are using satire of a woman's prayer group. The first thing that came to my mind after viewing this video, is how these actresses did the part so well? Was it something that the writers or the actresses overheard from their parents as youngsters? Something to ponder...

Also, an outstanding link of this topic that is very convicting; "Cases Of Conscience, And Directions Against Backbiting, Slandering, And Evil Speaking"by Richard Baxter.

http://www.puritansermons.com/baxter/baxter24.htm

The Lost Doctrine - Regeneration

2011-01-19T06:09:00.000-08:00

Test yourselves to see if you are in the faith; examine yourselves! Or do you not recognize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you--unless indeed you fail the test? 2 Corinthians 13:5
I found this exegesis of 1 John somewhere on the internet, and I thought it is a profound test in scripture. One of the things I find wrong with many churches today, is they are satisfied with a intellectual consent of their belief in Jesus rather than going through scripture with them to see if God truly regenerated that person. "Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter. " Matthew 7:21

I would hope anyone who reads this blog would open their Bibles to 1 John and see for themselves if God is truly doing a work in their lives. This is not a check list like you would do in a magazine, but every one of these points needs to have some growth that can only be done by the Holy Spirit.

1. Do you enjoy having fellowship with Christ and His redeemed people? (1 John 1:3)

2. Would people say you walk in the light, or walk in the darkness? (1 John 1:6-7)

3. Do you admit and confess your sin? (1 John 1:8)

4. Are you obedient to God's Word? (1 John 2:3-5)

5. Does your life indicate you love God rather than the world? (1 John 2:15)

6. Is your life characterized by "doing what is right"? (1 John 2:29)

7. Do you seek to maintain a pure life? (1 John 3:3)

8. Do you see a decreasing pattern of sin in your life? (1 John 3:5-6) [Note: this refers to not continuing in sin as a way of life, not a total absence of sin.]

9. Do you demonstrate love for other Christians? (1 John 3:14)

10. Do you "walk the walk," versus just "talking the talk"? (1 John 3:18-19)

11. Do you maintain a clear conscience? (1 John 3:21)

12. Do you experience victory in your Christian walk? (1 John 5:4)

There are a few "tests" in scripture like what the Puritans used in the beatitudes in Matthew 5. Whatever the case, it is important to test ourselves in light of scripture rather than comparing ourselves to Christians who compare themselves with other Christians.

"It is not a time to be silent; it is time to speak out. We have kept quiet too long, somehow feeling that if we opposed these unbiblical practices we might be hindering the good work of evangelism, believing that among the multitudes of "decisions" there are some genuine conversions. But with every passing week thousands are being counseled into a false hope! Men are directed to walk aisles when they should be pointed to Christ alone. The high calling of preaching has degenerated into a series of gimmicks and tricks. These false practices have resulted from the perversion of biblical doctrine. In the midst of this darkness let us pray that God may be pleased to revive His Church again. This revival can come only through Christ. Men must turn afresh to His directions for counseling, to His free invitations to sinners and to the preaching of His gospel. Only then will our labors bring glory to God; and if God grants, many sinners will be converted for His glory."

James E. Adams

See entire article:

http://www.the-highway.com/Decisional_Regeneration.html

A.W. Pink - Anxiety

2011-01-17T21:43:00.000-08:00

“Be anxious for nothing...” (Phil. 4:6)

WORRYING is as definitely forbidden as theft. This needs to be carefully pondered and definitely realized by us, so that we do not excuse it as an innocent “infirmity.” The more we are convicted of the sinfulness of anxiety, the sooner are we likely to perceive that it is most dishonoring to God, and “strive against” it. (Heb. 12:4) Buy how are we to “strive against” it? First, by begging the Holy Spirit to grant us a deeper conviction of its enormity. Second, by making it a subject of special and earnest prayer, that we may be delivered from this evil. Third, by watching its beginning, and as soon as we are conscious of harassment of mind, as soon as we detect the unbelieving thought, lift up our heart to God and ask Him for deliverance from it. The best antidote for anxiety is frequent meditation upon Gods goodness, power and sufficiency. When the saint can confidently realize “The Lord is My Shepherd,” he must draw the conclusion, “I shall not want!” Immediately following our exhortation is, “but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your request be made known unto God.” Nothing is too big and nothing is too little to spread before and cast upon the Lord. The “with thanksgiving” is most important, yet it is the point at which we most fail. It means that before we receive Gods answer, we thank Him for the same: it is the confidence of the child expecting his Father to be gracious. –A. W. Pink

“Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought (anxious concern) for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?” “But seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matt. 6:25,33)

New Year Thoughts

2011-01-03T07:49:00.000-08:00

“For it pleased the Father that in him should all fullness dwell.” Colossians 1:19

"All wisdom to guide, all power to uphold, all love to soothe, all grace to support, all tenderness to sympathize, dwells in Christ. Let us, then, gird ourselves to a fresh taking hold of Christ. We must walk through this year not by sight, but by faith- and that faith must deal simply and directly, with Jesus. “Without me you can do nothing.” But with His strength made perfect in our weakness, we can do all things. Oh, be this our course and our posture- “coming up from the wilderness leaning on her Beloved.” Living in a world of imperfection and change, we must expect nothing perfect, nothing stable, in what we are, in what we do, or in what we enjoy. But amid the dissolving views of the world that “passes away,” let us take firm hold of the unchangeableness of God. The wheels may revolve, but the axle on which they turn is immoveable. Such is our covenant God. Events may vary- providences may change- friends may die- feelings may fluctuate- but God in Christ will know “no variableness, neither the shadow of a turning.” “Having loved His own that were in the world, He loved them unto the end.”

Six Differences Between A Sincere Faith and A Hypocritical Faith

2010-12-01T05:48:00.000-08:00

Therefore, to prevent mistakes, and that we may not be deceived and think we believe when we only presume, I shall give you six differences between a sincere faith, which is the flower of the spirit, and a hypocritical faith, which is the fruit of fancy.

1. A hypocritical faith is easy to come by. It is like the seed in the parable which sprung up suddenly, Mark 4:5. A false faith shoots up without any convictions and soul humblings. As Isaac said, “How comest thou by thy venison so soon?” Genesis 27:20. Likewise, how does this man come by faith so soon? Surely it is of different nature and will quickly wither away. But true faith, being an outlandish plant and of a heavenly extraction, is hard to come by. It costs many a sigh and tear, Acts 2:37. This spiritual infant is not born without pangs.

2. A hypocritical faith is afraid to come to trial. The hypocrite would rather have his faith commended than examined. He can no more endure a Scripture trial than counterfeit metal can endure the touchstone. He is like a man who has stolen goods in his house and is very unwilling to have his house searched. So the hypocrite has gotten some stolen goods that the devil has helped him to, and he is loathe to have his heart searched. Whereas true faith is willing to come to a trial. “Examine me, O Lord, and prove me; try my reins and heart,” Psalm 26:2. David was riot afraid to be tried by a jury, no, though God Himself was one of the jury. Good wares are never afraid of the light.

3. A hypocritical faith has a slight esteem of true faith. The hypocrite hears others speak in the commendation of faith, but he wonders where the virtue of it lies. He looks upon faith as a drug, or some base commodity that will not go off. He will part with all the faith he has for a piece of silver and, perhaps, it might be dear enough at the price. But the man who has true faith sets a high value on it. He reckons this grace among his jewels. What incorporates him into Christ but faith? What puts him into a state of sonship but faith? Galatians 3:26. O precious faith! A believer would not exchange his shield of faith for a crown of gold!

4. A hypocritical faith is lame on one hand. With one hand it would take up Christ. But it does not with the other hand give itself up to Christ. It would take Christ by way of surety, but not give up itself to Him by way of surrender. True faith, however, is impartial. It takes Christ as a Savior and submits to Him as a Prince. Christ said, “With My body and My blood, I endow thee.” And faith says, “With my soul, I worship Thee.”

5. A hypocritical faith is impure. The hypocrite says he believes, yet goes on in sin. He is all creed, but no commandment. He believes, yet will take God’s name in vain. “Wilt thou not cry unto me, My Father, thou art the guide of my youth! Behold, thou hast done evil things as thou couldst,” Jeremiah 3:4-5. These impostors would call God their Father, yet sin as fast as they could. For one to say he has faith, yet live in sin, is as if a man should say he was in health, yet his vitals had perished. But a true faith is joined with sanctity. “Holding the mystery of faith in a pure conscience,” 1 Timothy 3:9. The jewel of faith is always put in the cabinet of a good conscience. The woman who touched Christ by faith felt a healing virtue come from Him. Though faith does not wholly remove sin, yet it subdues it.

6. A hypocritical faith is a dead faith; it tastes no sap or sweetness in Christ. The hypocrite tastes something in the vine and olive. He finds contentment in the carnal, luscious delights of the world, but no sweetness in a promise. ‘The Holy Ghost Himself is spiritless to him. That is a dead faith which has no sense or taste. But true faith finds much delight in heavenly things. The Word is sweeter than the honeycomb, Psalm 19:10. Christ’s love is better than wine, Song of Solomon 1:2. Thus we see a difference between true and spurious faith. How many have thought they have had the live child of faith by them, when it has proved the dead child. Take heed of presumption, but cherish faith. Faith applies Christ and makes a spiritual concoction of His body and blood. This supper was intended chiefly for believers, Luke 22:19. Christ’s blood to an unbeliever is like aqua-vitae in a dead man’s mouth: it loses all its virtue.

Remember When...

2010-11-30T17:40:00.000-08:00

Remember when the disgusting sight of your sin was
suddenly eclipsed by a vision of Christ dying on Calvary
for you?

Remember the first time you realized that God loved
you?

Remember the moment you first believed?

Remember when you first realized that God had taken
away all your sins and you were really forgiven?

Remember the first time you felt clean? Clean by the
blood of the lamb?

Remember the first time you sang, “Amazing Grace”
and understood what the author was saying?

Remember the first time you told someone about your
conversion?

Remember the first time the Holy Spirit gave you power
over a certain besetting sin?

Remember the first time you sensed the presence of
Christ?

Remember the first time you were alone with the Scriptures
and God showed you something in His Word?

Remember the first time after your conversion when
God revealed to you a little more of what it meant for
Christ to die for you?

Remember the first time you wept with joy because of
what God had done for you?

Remember the first time God gave you a promise?

Remember the first time God answered your prayer?

Remember the first time you shared your testimony in
front of the church?

Remember the first time you led someone else to Christ?

Remember the first time God brought you through a
trial?

Remember the first time God disciplined you and you
saw the value of it?

Remember the first verse you ever memorized?

Remember the first time you tithed or gave sacrificially
to meet a need?

Remember the first time God led you to do something
and it really was God?

Remember when you cherished time to be alone with
God, to pray, and read His Word?

Remember when you could not wait to go to church in
order to worship and hear the message?

Remember when you sought out fellowship with other
believers just to talk about Jesus?

Remember when you did not want to talk about anything
or anyone but Jesus?

Remember when you could not think of anything or
anyone but Jesus?

Remember when your zeal for the Lord caused you to
turn away from evil?

Remember when you prayed for God to make you like
Jesus no matter the cost?

Remember when you prayed for God to use you?

Remember when you were willing to risk it all for Christ
and His Kingdom?

It is good to remember...

In Christ

Paul Washer
“

True Thanksgiving - The Depth of the Cross

2010-11-25T09:24:00.000-08:00

I had the very surreal and surprising privilege of hearing Paul Washer live during chapel at The Master's College about a week ago. The second sermon started on Flavel's writings "The Father's Bargain". He built it up with the story of Abraham and Isaac, and then he brought it home with the picture of the cross. Next he said, "And the Father slaughtered Him there!". He paused to look around the room for several moments, and I presume, when he saw nothing but blank stares from the audience as I myself witnessed, he abruptly walked off of stage towards the doors. As he was going out, a couple of people started to clap, and he came out and said, "No, don't!" and walked outside. There was nothing for a minute or two but a bewildered silence. There were some students that were laughing (probably from nerves), some were walking out, and some were waiting to see if he would come back. When it was obvious that he wouldn't come back, more people left except for a handful. As the auditorium emptied, I can see that there were a few huddles of students crying and some were just sitting with their heads down in prayer weeping. As unconventional as Paul Washer was walking off of stage, it brought sadness to my own heart; I as well as most of the people there shared the shame of our apathy for the cross. According to sources on campus, there was salvation that day; praise the LORD!

Below is the link of the two sermons. I hope you'll find the time to listen to these. It has really helped me not only expose my own indifference for the sacrifice that was done for me, but also give me a new thanksgiving for He was not spared.

Here is the first sermon on man's depravity.

This is the second sermon given two days later that I wrote about in the above post.

The Ten Indictments to The Modern Church

2010-10-23T10:39:00.001-07:00

I'm looking forward to seeing this man preach live next month. Although Paul Washer is known for the "Shocking Youth Message" sermon, this one is my favorite. I was struck on how much the church has strayed ever so slowly away from being Biblical. If you think your church is sound in doctrine and how it worships, teaches and runs, I would urge you to view this and see for yourself.

"Preached Wednesday, October 22nd, 2008 at the Revival Conference in Atlanta, Georgia. Paul Washer delivers a urgent appeal to the Christians and Churches in North America that many have been believing a false gospel and have false assurance of their salvation. He lists 10 indictments against the modern Church system in America. This is a historical urgent message, tell others and spread the message. We need a reformation and revival of a biblical standard!"- Greg Gordon (Revival Conference Organizer)

To Be Self Controlled - Hope With Besetting Sin

2010-09-19T07:16:00.000-07:00

Dear Sisters,

Most of us struggle against sin, but there are sins we just accept, because they have become so much apart of who we are. Do you feel hopeless? Well, you don't have to put up with it anymore! Jesus truely saves us from our sin! What is your Goliath?

Young Woman's Testimony

2010-07-07T14:36:00.001-07:00

This is a must listen. My biggest burden is that I believe before this woman's true conversion, this is what our churches are filled with. An untold amount of people are under the illution of salvation because they prayed a prayer and/or have been raised Christian and rely on their own morality and a graven image of a God they have formed out of their own mind. I'm so grateful beyond words for His grace and love He bestows on us.

...to love their children

2010-05-19T19:02:00.000-07:00

Here is an excellent series on teaching children the word of God.

"It is not the job of Sunday School teachers or Awana people or anything else to teach your children, or the responsibility of the youth minister to disciple your teenagers. Let me say that again because no one is hearing me; not enough people are throwing stones." ~ Paul Washer

To Love the Word of God - Paul Washer from HeartCry Missionary Society on Vimeo.

It Will Cost You Everything

2010-02-14T07:32:00.000-08:00

My first passion is the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. Even though I share what I've learned in Titus 2:3-5, we are simply unable to do what is listed without the Holy Spirit as it shows when you read further in Titus 2.

For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age,
looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus, who gave Himself for us to redeem us from every lawless deed, and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds. Titus 2:11-14

Mentoring: A Blessed Call (Titus 2:3)

2010-01-17T19:37:00.000-08:00

As I look back over the last few years of my Christian walk, I’m amazed at the surprises the Lord brings me. One of them is how much of a blessing it is to mentor a young woman. After going to an interdenominational woman’s Titus 2 for several years, I really was struck with the desire for this teaching to be implemented at my local church.

As I study the entire book of Titus in all of its three chapters, I noticed something very important. Paul is writing a letter to his protégé, Titus, who was planting a church in Crete, which is an island in the Mediterranean Sea. The book of Titus is a very basic and fundamental outline of the organization of a group of believers (church). Chapter one speaks of the requirements of the overseers and leaders and how to protect against its enemies. If we skip over to chapter three, it gives us a summary of the Christian’s responsibility to the world. All of these things are being taught in Bible teaching churches today which is a good thing, but when I get to chapter two and compare it to the way modern churches are ran today, this beautiful doctrine has become obsolete in our response to the young women as well as the young men. We are called to mentor a younger woman within our church.

We assume the responsibility of helping others on the pastor, youth/college pastors or any other trained individual. Because we have this unbiblical view, we ignore the need of one on one personal discipleship and our young people are left with nobody to help them with practical day to day. I can’t imagine how much churches would flourish spiritually if all of us would act in accordance with this scripture within the body of believers, not to mention help equip young people. Our pastors are often overwhelmed with all of the family problems within the flock, and not spending enough time in their study so they can feed us.

Books have replaced so much of our call to mentor. Case and point; the book "The Excellent Wife" from Martha Peace was the hot item when I was first married. It's a fine book, but I took a chapter in it WAY too seriously. The chapter (which is controversial) was about reproving your husband as you would any other brother in Christ. (Not sure about that. I will use the example of Esther on making an appeal in a later blog.) I marched in the living room and rebuked my husband for his "idol" of football. It didn't got over well to say the least. My countenance was disrespectful, and I appeared a self righteous brat. Even though books can be a good instrument, they lack the personal needs of a unique individual. I needed a spiritual mother to admonish me to be sober, check my motives (which were not pure at all), and be that quiet and gentle spirit as 1 Peter 3 calls me to be.

On the other hand, I'm encouraged to see the seeds of a reformation of Titus 2 as I visit churches in my town, whether that would be in a form of a news letter, the pulpit, or a class. Titus 2 is making a come back and it is Gods doing. I see the plea to mentor young people as it is mandated in scripture.

With all of my zeal, the Lord was teaching me a lesson in humility. I wanted to start a ministry in my church because I saw this gaping hole much by my own experience as a young woman, and the complaint of others. We started a Titus 2 Bible study with much excitement. The first year went well with about ten women. As we were preparing for the second year, my church went through a split taking the majority of the women in the study away. We were left with two young women in their early twenties just starting out in their adult lives. My partner and I were disappointed, but we committed ourselves as though we were ministering to many women in hopes others would eventually come. Throughout the year, some would come and go, but these two young women eagerly came faithfully week after week. After the study was over and a few months passed with my enthusiasm waned, I get a call from these young ladies wanting to go out to lunch. In my shame, I got so distracted with my big visionary ideas that I forgot the most fundamental part of Titus 2; the call to being an older woman to a younger woman.

Spending time with these two young ladies has been by far more of a blessing than any big ministry. This is God’s real call. I have to admit, I would rather stand in front of a large audience of people, than sit across a table from a younger woman. It’s scary. So much of our modern Christianity in America has “curriculized” ministry so much that we’re paralyzed with fear of not doing it right or saying the wrong thing. Well, let me ask, what does it take to qualify to be that older woman? As I move through this passage of Titus 2:3-5 it doesn’t say we need to be biblical scholars or have a counseling certificate.

“The older women likewise, that they be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things” Titus 2:3 (NKJ)

The older women: Many Bible scholars that I respect say that this requires gray hair old ladies. We certainly welcome your wisdom dear saints if you’re out there, but it says older, not necessarily old.

Be reverent: We must strive to be reverent. In other words, to have a deep exalted view of God that is in pursuit of a holy life to glorify Him. Our behavior is to be respectful especially to our husbands. To be a godly woman is to be nourished by the Word constantly, and know sound doctrine.

Not slanderers: If you have a bad habit of wanting to know the scoop in the church, or are urged to share personal information about others, than I would seriously examine yourself and ask the Lord to help you repent. This disqualifies you as being a trusted person, and your motive is not help a younger woman, but to gratify your own desires. Gossiping is not only a serious offence to the person that you're gossiping about, but it's a serious offence to a holy God. He puts it in the same company as murderers (Romans 1:29). Many times a younger woman will share things that are personal about people you might know, or even attend the same church. She will be seriously wounded if it is shared even under the veil of a prayer request. Keep it to yourself! I believe much of the reason why Titus 2 is not implemented in the church in a practical way is because of people being burned by gossipers.

Not given to much wine: I know this is obvious, but in the ancient world, wine was widely used as the drug of choice. When you’re addicted to a controlled substance, your perspective is greatly skewed. This also includes prescriptive medication. This is a epidemic today as millions, including church goers, are addicted to prescriptive drugs.

Teachers of good things: Life experience in its triumphs and defeats are all good. The Lord gives us a lifetime to share. So much of what I hear from a lot of women is from Dr. Phil, media, cultural perspectives, or other books that are not biblically sound. Many people in Christian circles today believe that the Bible is inspired, but the question that remains, do you believe the Bible is sufficient? “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17. If you’re in a situation that you don’t know an answer, than let her know you’ll try to get back with her. You’re better off not having an answer than to give wives tales. It will mean the world to a young woman if you can only take the time and just pray with her. It’s far better than indifference.

“that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed.” Titus 2:4-5

Experience: You need to have some experience in your life in child raising and being a wife. Some parents have this notion that Titus 2 can be learned from older Christian youth. How can any young woman learn how to love their husband and children if the mentor never marched through the trenches? Now, there are exceptions. Many older women who never been married can still be a mentor, but again, she must be mature, reverent, and teacher of good things due to her knowledge of scripture and wise due to her life experiences.

Being a good example: loving your own children and husband, and being a discreet, chaste, good homemaker, and being obedient to your husband. Much of the wives behavior can be so destructive that the word of God can be blasphemed.

Finding a younger woman: Pray about it. Send a card to a young woman from your local church. Greet her every Sunday. She may start sharing and open doors for a wonderful friendship.

Making time: Believe me; I understand the stress of time. Being a busy mom with a part time job has its challenges. Remember, you’re the boss of your calendar. A once a month trip with a new young friend to Starbucks might be the break you need from your busy life. More than likely, you’re going to be the one who will be blessed; I know I am.

To Be Sober Part 5 - Bitter Roots

2009-12-20T08:47:00.000-08:00

Bitterness and resentment can creep into the mind and cause us to retreat and/or lash out. We could be holding onto pain from the past, or something that just grinds us daily like a lack of help with kids, or around the home. This very common verse has helped me greatly with my resentment towards my husband, and I think it will be an encouragement to you too.

Then the LORD God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone; I will make him a helper suitable for him." Genesis 2:18 (emphasis added)

Notice in the above verse that he is not to be our "helper", but we are made to be his. Taking a different look at the passage and putting it practically in my life stopped me in my tracks. I realized for so many years I resented my husband for not being a better helper to me when it was my calling to be a helper to him. Proverbs 31:10-12 also says

"An excellent wife, who can find? For her worth is far above jewels. The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. She does him good and not evil all the days of her life." We need to just put away bitterness.

"Pursue peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one comes short of the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springing up causes trouble, and by it many be defiled" Hebrews 12:14-15."

Would our husbands say that we did him good and not evil all the days of his life? Are we holding on to bitterness that can bring many people (family, neighbors, children, etc.) to be defiled? The wonderful thing about most men is that they don't hold grudges like we do. It's time to (as I say to my kids) to "turn it around".

As I read this excerpt from Charles Spurgeon, I'm delighted to notice the overall attitude of the wife. This may sound ideal to some, but it just takes one person that chooses to rejoice in any circumstance.

“Sometimes we have seen a model marriage, founded on pure love, and cemented in mutual esteem. Therein, the husband acts as a tender head; and the wife, as a true spouse, realizes the model marriage-relation, and sets forth what our oneness with the Lord ought to be. She delights in her husband, in his person, his character, his affection; to her he is not only the chief and foremost of mankind, but in her eyes he is all-in-all; her heart’s love belongs to him, and him only. She finds sweetest content and solace in his company, his fellowship, his fondness; he is her little world, her Paradise, her choice treasure. At any time, she would gladly lay aside her own pleasure to find it doubled in gratifying him. She is glad to sink her individuality in his. She seeks no renown for herself; his honor is reflected upon her, and she rejoices in it. She would defend his name with her dying breath; safe enough is he where she can speak for him. The domestic circle is her kingdom; that she may there create happiness and comfort is her lifework; and his smiling gratitude is all the reward she seeks. Even in her dress, she thinks of him; without constraint she consults his taste and considers nothing beautiful which is distasteful to him.

A tear from his eye because of any unkindness on her part, would grievously torment her. She seeks not how her behavior may please a stranger, or how another’s judgment may approve her conduct; let her beloved be content, and she is glad. He has many objects in life, some of which she does not quite understand; but she be believes in them all, and anything she can do to promote them, she delights to perform. He lavishes love on her, and, in return, she lavishes love on him. Their object in life is common. There are points where their affections so intimately united that none could tell which is first and which is second. To watch their children growing up in health and strength, to see them holding posts of usefulness and honor, is their mutual concern; in this and other matters, they are fully one. Their wishes blend, their hearts are indivisible. By degrees, they come to think very much the same thoughts. Intimate association creates conformity; I have known this to become so complete that, at the same moment, the same utterance has leapt to both their lips."Happy woman and happy man! If Heaven be found on earth, they have it! At last, the two are so blended, so engrafted on one stem, that their old age presents a lovely attachment, a common sympathy, by which its infirmities are greatly alleviated, and its burdens are transformed into fresh bonds of love. So happy a union of will, sentiment, thought, and heart exists between them, that the two streams of their life have washed away the dividing bank, and run on as one broad current of united existence till their common joy falls into the ocean of eternal felicity.”

Welcome Autumn!!

2009-10-20T18:50:00.001-07:00

If you look closely, you can see the bees.

2009-10-20T18:48:00.000-07:00

My two youngest boys are too scared to make their way along "Scarecrow Alley".

2009-10-20T15:33:00.000-07:00

He has made His wonders to be remembered; The LORD is gracious and compassionate. Psalm 111:4

My favorite season is finally here. I love the colors of orange, yellow, green, brown and even red. I also love the smell of spices when I enter a market and taking in the cool air.

I took these pictures to remember the beautiful day I had with the kids on a cool (for Southern California) October afternoon. I pray I never lose my sense of wonder of the faithfulness and consistency of His creation.

To Be Sober Part 4 - Examining Ourselves

2009-09-25T15:49:00.000-07:00

For though the LORD is exalted, Yet He regards the lowly, But the haughty He knows from afar. Psalm 138:6

It seems a man’s most general sin is selfishness. We also have our own sin as women which counteracts theirs, and it is also selfishness, and it manifests itself in entitlement and self righteousness. In my blog “Disenchanting Idol’s”, I discuss this problem more in detail. We live in a culture that has been influenced by liberalism, and it has seeped into the church more than we realize. One preacher has said in the last decade he is seeing a reformation of young people returning to scripture. "This reformation will reveal who is a real disciple of Jesus Christ, and who is playing with a watered down cultural "Christianity" that holds the form of godliness, but denies the power thereof." I believe that. When I share what I have learned in God's word in regards to my relationship with my husband and children, I’m amazed that more often than not, women who are my age and older, and who know more than I do about the Bible, and often talk of their conservative “right minded” views, are the most contentious about these truths. I heared from two women who said with a chuckle, "I don't want to be convicted of that". Things can be seemingly fine in your marriage, but with that attitude, you're still in rebellion before a Holy God. "An excellent wife is the crown of her husband, But she who shames him is like rottenness in his bones." Proverbs 12:4

We stand up to false doctrines, such as Mormonism, or the Jehovah Witnesses, but we don’t realize how much our behavior and mindset has been influenced by the doctrine of Hollywood. You see on commercials, movies, books and any sitcom that we women are much smarter, wiser, and now it seems even tougher than any guy. We can become rather proud in our "righteous indignation", and fail to examine our own sin in light of God's word.

When I first came into my Bible study over 10 years ago, I certainly felt that it was my husband's fault that our marriage was struggling. Every time someone would try to tell me I was in error, I felt entitled because his sin was so much worse and I was sinning in response. My teacher told us to take 2% responsibility; maybe even 1%. Even if it is 98% his fault, I can work with my 2%. Only God can change your husband. The more you try, the more he will either stand his ground and rebel, or withdraw in his “cave”. We can’t change our husbands, but we can change with God’s help. Take 100% responsibility for your 2%.

Naomi Wright who has been teaching the Titus 2 principles for more than 50 years, compiled a list that has been very helpful to me. We were given these examples of three types of women near the end of the year when the topic was "submission", but I think it would help with discerning our own "2%". In order to see any change take place in our lives, we need to "turn our eyeballs" around as my teacher Joanne would say.

What Kind of Woman are You?

The Doormat Woman:Motive: People Pleaser
Heart Attitude: Fear and Guilt
Rights: Doesn't feel she has any
Responsibilities: Feels responsible for everything and everyone (co-dependent)
Emotions and Self Control: Highly emotional, prone to fear and self-pity
Love Relationships: Being accepted is more important than being loving and truthful
Needs: Lets needs and feeling of others rule over her life
Discernment: Only wants to see strengths, not weaknesses in others
Dealing with Shortcomings: Overly disappointed when sees weaknesses, often devastated
Truth: Afraid to be truthful for fear of angry consequences
Submission: Misunderstands submission
Power: Feels powerless and intimidated
Offense: Stuff offense - stays unresolved

The Contentious Woman
Motive: "...unto self"
Heart Attitude: Resentful
Rights: Recognizes rights and demands them
Responsibilities: More concerned with rights than responsibilities
Emotions and Self Control: Highly emotional and prone to fear, resentment and anger
Love Relationships: Being right is more important than being loving
Needs: Preoccupied with her own feelings and needs
Discernment: Only sees weaknesses
Dealings with Shortcomings: Critical and judgemental when weakness is revealed
Truth: Offers truth through blaming and demands change
Submission: Resents and rejects submission
Power: Wants her own power
Offense: Is quick to be offended

The Sober Minded Woman of God

Motive: "...unto God"
Heart Attitude: Cheerful and willing
Rights: Recognizes rights and lays them down
Responsibilities: More concerned with responsibilities than rights
Emotions and Self Control: In touch with feelings, but not controlled by them
Love Relationships: Being loving is more important than being right
Needs: Listens carefully and is sensitive to the needs of others, but not ruled by them
Discernment: Sees both weaknesses and strengths, but accepts person
Dealings with Shortcomings: Edifies, encourages and strengthens when weaknesses show
Truth: Offers truth and petitions out of love
Submission: Embraces submission
Power: Focuses on God's power and her own powerlessness
Offense: Slow to be offended, willing to admit and resolve it when it occurs

I admit, I swing from being a contentious woman to a doormat woman depending on my mood. However, through the years as I grow in my Christian walk, I see God working things out in my own life so I can become the "sober minded woman of God" through sanctification. That leads me to my next question...Do you know God?

"For indeed He was crucified because of weakness, yet He lives because of the power of God For we also are weak in Him, yet we will live with Him because of the power of God directed toward you. Test yourselves to see if you are in the faith; examine yourselves! Or do you not recognize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you--unless indeed you fail the test?" 2 Corinthians 13:4-5I'm not saying that you're not a Christian unless you're the 100% sober minded woman of God, but if you're not sensitive over your sin (If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us. 1 John 1:8 ) , then I would encourage you check out the video below, or listen to the series on Biblical Assurance on the red widget on the right of this blog. Even if you're assured of your salvation, it doesn't hurt to examine ourselves to renew our minds of the wonderful assurance of what Jesus did for us. It has blessed me greatly.

To Be Sober Part 3 - The Purpose of Marriage

2009-08-28T19:37:00.000-07:00

"Sincerity makes the very least person to be of more value than the most talented hypocrite" - Charles Haddon Spurgeon

I have to be honest, nothing has been more challenging in my 16 year pilgrimage with the Lord than my marriage. Marriage can be very wonderful, but more often than not, we do not warn of the pitfalls of marriage, and young people go in with high expectations of fluffy bliss. I know I did. I ignored the crazy statistics out there of almost 60% of marriages ending in divorce. When I first got married and things started unraveling, I felt so ashamed and alone because other couples, especially in churches, seemed to be in a piece of heaven. What was wrong with us? As I get older I'm starting to hear real stories from real women, and we and our husbands are just normal sinners sharing the same roll of toilet paper. If only we as older women would be honest with younger women and share our experiences good and bad, how it would equip, encourage and even save marriages. Titus 2:3-5 are not suggestions, but a mandate. I only had one woman in my early marriage who was a pastor's wife that came and asked me how things were going. I lied and told her things were fine. She shared briefly that she had been married for many years, and for the first five it were very difficult. I remember coming away from that conversation so relieved, but I needed more mentoring.

I’m convinced if I would only get it right as a wife, everything else would fall into place. I’m not going to tell you with hypocrisy that I have arrived, or even try to appear like I have all the answers; only God has all the answers given to us through His word. The reason why I share what God has taught me is not only to help those who need it, but to also review and challenge myself. I desperately need help with the natural tendency that we all have as women to rule over our husbands (Genesis 3:16); whether we would do that in dominance, or in a manipulative martyr way. I have a long way to go to being a woman of God. It seems I would do well for a while, then things can go awry before I would blink.

I was saved a year before I was married, and I thought I was so spiritual. I was over the moon for the Lord, life was good, sin no longer had the dominion over me like it did, and I could see the Lord working in my life in so many areas. I was reading my Bible every day, going to church with my Grandma, praying, telling others about Jesus and singing Hallelujah; then I got married. For the first time in a year, swear words flew out of my mouth at my new husband. (This problem is no longer by God's grace.) This is a man I made a covenant with before God in His sanctuary in front of over a hundred witnesses promising to love and cherish for the rest of my life. Talk about a wake up call that I was not the sanctified self righteous princess I thought I was. I was so ashamed. We went through years of arguing, until we withdrew into quiet despair. After about five years, I found myself in bed weeping uncontrollably for four days. I fell into a deep depression.

I managed to get out of bed, but the hopelessness of just hearing the alarm clock and waking up seemed daunting. What will this day bring? Is it going to be a day of more emptiness, heartache, rushing, fighting, dirty socks on the floor, etc., etc., etc? For the first time in my life, even a day at the salon would not cheer me up. Things I once enjoyed seemed like just another task. I remember this time about 10 years ago, going to a salon and telling the lady to do what she wanted, and that I didn't care. It almost seemed in the woman’s eyes she knew. She seemed to take extra care with me as she stayed silent to cut my hair. I’m a very relational person, and I just sat there stone faced. I needed a good year of biblical counseling, and a Titus 2 Bible study to help me get through all of that. God is so good in so many ways; it would take a rather large book to write it all out. He really is the Good Shepherd.

Perhaps you can relate in some way. God knows, and has never left or forsaken you. You may be going through pain much worse than anything I have ever experienced. I want to encourage you with a verse on the reason for marriage if you’re a Christian. Here it goes…

“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brethren” Romans 8:28-29

Most of us know this verse, but rarely do we apply it to marriage. I heard a preacher say that more often than not, God will give us a mate that is not compatible. When we think of Christ we think of His ability to forgive and His unconditional love. God will use what it takes to teach us unconditional love. How can we ever learn to love unconditionally if our mate meets all of our conditions? We are being conformed to His image and that should be an encouragement. He is the Potter and we are the clay. Praise God!

Once I came to a place where I realized that I deserve nothing outside of His grace and His salvation is more than enough, my perspective started to change. God revealed to Paul in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10"And He has said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness " Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ's sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong."

I find myself reminding myself time and time again of Paul's prayer that I not only have been saved from the Hell I deserve, but bought and purified by the blood of Christ, and given more grace by being adopted as His own. If you think of that, all we could do is rejoice. On top of all of that, He blessed me with a wonderful husband and children.

If your husband is not regenerated by the Holy Spirit, I know that is a lonely road. I was there for the first 15 years of my marriage. If you've been a Christian for very long, I'm sure you're familiar with the verse in 1 Peter 3:1 "In the same way, you wives, be submissive to your own husbands so that even if any of them are disobedient to the word, they may be won without a word by the behavior of their wives, as they observe your chaste and respectful behavior." If you catch the first part of that verse, "In the same way", it refers to the previous text in 1 Peter chapter 2 as it mentions submitting to authority and being a bond servant to Christ to "silence the ignorance of foolish men" through your obedience. Also it refers to Christ's example during His crucifixion..."and while being reviled, He did not revile in return; while suffering, He uttered no threats, but kept entrusting Himself to Him who judges righteously;" 1 Peter 2:23. I would encourage you to do a study on 1 Peter chapters 2 and 3. He doesn't ask us to be nailed to a cross, but He does call us to take up our cross and follow Him. Some are called to suffer not only conform us to His image, but to give us the privilege to represent Him as He sanctifies us.

Biblical Courtship

2009-08-15T07:36:00.001-07:00

I highly recommend that every believer listen to this series. Here is just an excerpt. The link for the series is below.

Session #1 Introduction to Biblical Courtship
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=6711831233

Session #2 The Parent's Responsibility
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=6231195837

Session #3 The Child's Responsibility
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=62311139560

Session #4 The "When" of Biblical Courtship
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=729111212158

To Be Sober Part 2 - Disenchanting Idols

2009-08-01T18:42:00.000-07:00

"You shall have no other gods before Me." Exodus 20:3

I was thinking of my own thought life and the constant war zones I find myself in. I realized that most of my negative thinking and lack of sober mindedness is all rooted by idols. We all have them. Some of these thoughts may start by good intentions (ministry, marriage, kids, volunteer work, etc...), but before we know it, we have been ensnared by our own flesh, whether that be in a form of acceptance, accolades, or fear of the people in our lives. Another example of an idol is with us mothers. We often worry over our children that can overwhelm us to the point of crippling our trust in God's sovereignty. Let’s put it this way, whatever fills your mind the most is your god.

The Bible’s definition of an idol is an image of a deity other than God. So what is that supposed “divine” thing that takes your thoughts away from the One True God or obeying His word? So many Christians believe that the Bible is inspired by God, but few really believe it is sufficient. "All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work." 2 Timothy 3:16-17. Often times the philosophies of this world can lead us in idolatry to strive for something outside of the will of God such as money, career, success, and even the American dream rather than strive for His Kingdom. There is nothing wrong with wanting those things, but we need to examine our motives and see if any work we do brings glory to God, and the promotion of His Kingdom rather than ourselves and our kingdom.

An idol is also any person or thing regarded with blind admiration, adoration, or devotion. I think for most women who read fairy tales as a little girl, or read romance novels (even Christian), would form an image in our heart of the “perfect man”. We all know the handsome Prince Charming who promised to take us away from our annoying parents and siblings and go far, far away, and (now let’s say it together...) live happily ever after. Even as little girls, that was our fantasy, our dream come true. Another definition of an idol is a mere image or semblance of something, visible but without substance, as a phantom; a figment of the mind, or a fantasy. The reality is if you’re married, or going to be married, accept he is a sinner, a seed of Adam. I will talk later about the differences between men and women, but it’s not common, being that they are conquers by nature, will slay the dragon, hang their swords, watch TV and “let go” after a long day. Meanwhile, we can become very disenchanted and even miss our Prince Charming that he once was (or appeared to be). Not only is the image of the perfect man an idol, but a desire for romance or a close companionship can root bitterness and discontentment. Realize that any preconceived notions from books we’ve read, TV shows, soap opera, movies, etc are only a mere image without substance. We really need to be very careful of the images we put in our minds. Those images can lead us astray into emotional idolatry, and give us a heart of discontentment, and feed vain imaginations of entitlement. Our culture brainwashes us to believe that a sinful man can fulfill us and make us "complete". Only God can truly satisfy. "No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.Therefore, my dear friends, flee from idolatry. I speak to sensible people; judge for yourselves what I say. 1 Corinthians 10:13-15"

Here is an exercise I share with women and practice myself using Philippians 4:8. “Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.” That is a command from God! If you’re struggling to even think of anything good about your husband, you need to remove the idol of “the perfect man” and replace it with five things that are true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, etc. and pray with thanksgiving. Pray for a week and show with your face (smile at him) your admiration of him. Because “a happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit.” Proverbs 15:13

I know this may sound simplistic especially if you are married to a difficult, sinful, rebellious, cantankerous, or neglectful man, but scripture is simplistic. The disappointment may seem overwhelming to the point of hopelessness. When I share the "list making exercise", I'll get this death glare, but it all comes down to our own pride of our supposed righteous indignation, and turning our eyes around to ourselves. This may not fix your husband, but through God's word and being obedient, God will change your heart, thus changing the tone of your home and fade that "perfect man" or any other idol that steals the desire for God. "I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols. I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh." Ezekiel 36:25-26 This verse talks about regeneration that results in sanctification, and this should be the process in the life of the true believer. We’ve made it way more complicated than it needs to be by simply not trusting the Lord in ALL THINGS and leaving that idol on His throne in prayer, and being thankful for the mission He has sent us on. "Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:5-7

Let me share an experience that I had this just past week. I was having a serious conversation with my friend at the beach while my three boys were playing next to us in the sand. If I analyzed what that “serious” thing was, it was a worthless idol. After talking for several minutes, my friend asked me where my youngest son David was. I immediately stood up, and quickly was at the brink of hysteria trying to locate him. He was gone! The terror filled my mind as I imagined the worse case scenario that he drowned in the ocean. I begged God, “please no, oh God, please no!” After about 10 minutes, a group of Christian woman next to us huddled in a prayer circle while lifeguards for miles were locating a little six year old boy with blue shorts and brown hair. I was standing at the water edge with fixed eyes on the bobbing heads in the water. Within minutes, a lifeguard got a message on her walky-talky that they found him. He had wandered off.

The irony of this incident is that my friends and family tease me at my child watching intensity in potentially dangerous situations. Immediately that conversation of that very "serious" nature became the furthest thing from my mind. My point in sharing that story with you is how “idols” take our hearts and minds off the things that really matter. That could of been a very tragic situation, and because of my negligence, could of cost my son his life. This may be an extreme example, but more often than not, I choose "me" rather than spending time with God, my boys, husband, family, etc.. When it comes down to it, I only need to look in the mirror to find my idol, and see that I'm worshipping my own desires when I'm not walking in obedience and denying myself. And He (Jesus) was saying to them all, "If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow Me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake, he is the one who will save it. " Luke 9:23-24. God will use anything to humble us and make us see that we are not what we think we are. I really believe He brought this incident to not only to show His power in prayer to all the unsaved that was all around us, but to also show me that I’m weak and distracted by things that are only a blind admiration.

The Virtuous "Young" Woman

2009-07-28T06:23:00.000-07:00

"Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, But a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised" Proverbs 31:30

To Be Sober - The Foundation Part 1

2009-07-28T06:02:00.000-07:00

Titus 2:3-5 (King James Version) "The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed."

The word “sober” is the last word that comes to mind when my boys are fighting, when they lolly gag with their homework, or when my husband says a careless word. I’ve asked God to forgive me from "losing it" numerous times. I'm getting better by His grace, but still a work in progress. I understand now it all starts with the mind and to yank negative thought patterns at the root. Just knowing that and praying when my mind is not in line with scripture, has helped me greatly. Believe me, I’m a very emotional person, and I need a double dose of daily mercy in this area. Being of sober mind is so much more than staying away from alcohol (not a bad idea by the way), but lays the foundation for the rest of the principles listed in Titus 2:4-5. As I read the word of God, my mind marvels at the lack of human logic that goes into the text. Only God knows us women; more than we know ourselves. Our biggest struggle is a lack of balance in our lives, and it all starts with our thought life. Here is a chart that makes that point more clear.

Thoughts create Feelings
Feelings create Actions
Actions create Habits
Habits create Character

I will use the King James Bible for the main text of Titus 2:3-5. I will be using the New American Standard Bible (NAS) for other references. If you have an NIV, the word sober is described as “self-controlled”. An NAS would define it as “sensible”, and more contemporary versions would describe it as “sensible” or “clean minded”. The original Greek word is “Sophronizo”, which means to recall to one’s senses and being self controlled. I personally like the word “sober” because it is weighty with implication. Many people are familiar with Titus 2:3-5, but you know what they say, “familiarity brings contention”. Often times we hear a text so much that it can became cliché and lose its meaning. From this point forward, when I introduce a Titus 2 principle, I will use a dictionary and a thesauruses to define the term, making sure to pick out the definition in the proper context and align it with the scripture. This has really helped me bring more reality, practical application, and conviction in my life. I’m not trying to add anything to God’s word, but with our sinful hearts, we often grow dull of the scriptures from the overuse in other applications throughout our lives.

The word “sober” means: habitually temperate, quiet or sedate in demeanor, subdued, self controlled, sane, rational, prudent and not easily offended.The “not easily offended” is what gets me. Chanting “a sober minded woman is not easily offended” needs to be my mantra throughout my day. What a concept that God has to set us free. Being offended is ultimately MY choice.

Here are some antonyms to “sober”: emotional, irrational, immoderate, stormy, upset, worried, mixed up and undiscerning. I’ve experienced all of these, and they have only done harm to me and to my family.

"Houses and wealth are inherited from parents, but a prudent wife is from the LORD." Proverbs 19:14

Common Parent Traps by John MacArthur

2009-07-28T05:45:00.000-07:00

If you’ve been a parent for any time at all, it shouldn’t come as much of a surprise that your child came into the world with an insatiable faculty for evil. Even before birth, your baby’s little heart was already programmed for sin and selfishness. The inclination toward depravity is such that, given free reign, every baby has the potential to become a monster.

Original sin is the biblical doctrine that explains your child’s sinful proclivity. It means children do not come into the world seeking God and righteousness. They do not even come into the world with a neutral innocence. They come into the world seeking the fulfillment of sinful and selfish desires. Scripture also teaches a doctrine called total depravity, referring to the extent of original sin. Although the outworking of the sin nature does not necessarily attain full expression in everyone’s behavior, it is nonetheless called total depravity because there is no aspect of the human personality, character, mind, emotions, or will that is free from the corruption of sin or immune to sin’s enticements.

Put bluntly, sin is not learned—it is an inbred disposition. Your kids got their sinful nature from you, you got it from your parents, your parents got it from their parents, and so on, all the way back to Adam. In other words, Adam’s fall tainted the entire human race with sin. Both the guilt and the corruption of sin are universal. The apostle Paul wrote, “Through one man sin entered into the world, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men, because all sinned” (Rom. 5:12, emphasis added). “Through one transgression there resulted condemnation to all men” (v. 18), meaning we inherited the guilt of sin. And “through the one man’s disobedience the many were made sinners” (v. 19), meaning we inherited the corruption of sin. No one is exempt. No one is born truly innocent.

That means that left to themselves, your children will pursue a course of sin. And left entirely to themselves, there is no evil of which they are incapable. You may find that hard to swallow, especially when you see them as newborns. Infants seem to be the very epitome of chaste, precious, childlike innocence. But don’t let the cute cheeks, the playful coos, and the bright eyes fool you — those children are a miniature version of you! The depravity that lives in their hearts is just waiting for the opportunity to express itself.

So how should the doctrines of original sin and total depravity impact your parenting? Before I answer that, let me show you three parenting approaches that miss the mark.

Trap #1: Focusing on Behavior: Many parents go off track by focusing all their efforts on controlling their child’s behavior. Be careful. If you concentrate all your energies on correcting external behavior, or staving off misbehavior with threats of discipline, you may be doing little more than training a hypocrite.I’ve seen that happen repeatedly. I know Christian parents who think their parenting is successful because they’ve taught their children to act politely on cue, to answer with “Yes, Sir” and “No, Ma’am,” and to speak to adults when spoken to. While that kind of behavior control may appear to work wonders for a time (especially when the parents are nearby), it does not address the root problem of depravity. Sinful behavior is a symptom of a sinful heart.

Trap #2: Focusing on Environment: Other parents try to control their child’s environment. They attempt to build a cocoon around their kids to isolate them from bad influences. They restrict their children’s exposure to television, ban popular music from the home, and sometimes forbid contact with children whose parents may not share their same parenting philosophy.While I do think you should shield your kids from the experience of evil, you need to teach them to be wise and discerning when confronted with evil. They won’t learn those lessons if they are completely isolated. The isolationist approach merely produces naïve children who are gullible and vulnerable, defenseless in the world.

Try as you might, you won’t be able to isolate your children forever. When the day comes that they venture out into the world, they need to be prepared with discernment skills and wisdom to detect and resist the enticements of the devil and the world. If you choose to shield them from an evil environment, you are ignoring the enemy within them — a depraved heart. But if you win the heart, you win the child.

Trap #3: Focusing on Self-Esteem: A very prevalent approach today is to build a child’s self-esteem. That method assumes that if a child sees himself as good, noble, and wonderful, he’ll not only behave better, but he will also treat others better. This method turns self-love into a virtue.
The truth is that much of the modern effort to spark kids’ self-esteem is simply pouring gasoline on a runaway fire. It encourages already selfish kids to think they are justified in wanting their own way. It makes you as a parent think you have to defer to the child, no matter what, because the child has a right to express himself freely, so he feels good about himself. All of that only escalates out-of-control behavior and feeds the worst tendencies of human depravity. Want to ensure that your child will become a delinquent? Feed his self-esteem and then compound the problem by refusing to correct him when he is wrong.

Self-esteem is based on an unbiblical perspective that denies original sin and the doctrine of total depravity. The Bible has nothing positive to say about self-esteem, self-love, or any other variety of self-centeredness. It teaches your child to deny himself, not love himself (Luke 9:23).

The Right Approach: Focusing on the Heart: There’s only one remedy for your child’s inborn depravity: the new birth—regeneration. As Jesus said to Nicodemus, “That which is born of flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit… [Therefore,] you must be born again” (John 3:6-7). “Born of the flesh” with a sinful bent, your children have no power to free themselves from sin’s bondage. They lack the Holy Spirit and thus have no capacity to please God or obey Him from the heart (cf. Rom. 8:7-8). Until your children are born again, they are dead in “trespasses and sins” (Eph. 2:1).So your top priority as a parent is to be an evangelist in your home. You need to teach your children the law of God, show them their need for a Savior, and point them to Jesus Christ as the only One who can save them. If they grow up in your home without a keen awareness of their need for salvation, you have failed as a parent in your primary task as their spiritual leader. Teach them the gospel and ask God to perform His sovereign work of regeneration.One word of caution about that — if you try to force, coerce, or manipulate your kids into a profession of faith, you may pressure them into making a false profession. The new birth is a work of the Holy Spirit, and your child’s salvation is a matter that must ultimately be settled between him and God.

Don’t approach parenting by focusing on the symptoms rather than the heart. If you attempt to modify your children’s behavior, isolate them, or bolster their self-esteem, you will not only exacerbate the problem, you will fail to reach to the heart of the matter. But if you teach them about their sin and need for the Savior, and if you live a life that models what you are teaching them to be, you can rest your hope in God’s grace for the salvation of your children.

Revival...Please!

2009-07-27T16:17:00.000-07:00

I experienced sort of an "awakening" last summer that has given me a new look at my Christian life. Instead of summers always being the spiritual "summer drought" as they've been in the past, I've dedicated this summer with all the extra time I will have to prayer and Bible reading. This renewed zeal I have has been the greatest joy in my life as well as the greatest burden. I long for a revival.After seeing a video not too long ago called “The Revival Hymn”, (I've posted it at the bottom )I’ve been intrigued with revivals.

Unfortunately, revivals have been tarnished by heretical teachers, and misunderstood and feared by us conservative evangelicals. I’ll start by telling you what it is not. It’s not an evangelistic meeting that can be made by men. Charles Finney took his own liberties by bringing up tents and calling it a revival meeting. The other thing people mistake revival for is evangelism. We want to preach to the lost and see them saved and that is what we think of a revival which is also false. Paul Washer states, "In order to have a revival, something must be made alive that has fallen asleep. In order to have a revival, it is primarily among the people of God. It is an extraordinary work of God to bring the people of God back to where they ought to be; walking in the power of the Holy Spirit, being obedient and that obedience manifesting itself in the love for God and love for God’s people. Now when there is a revival, also be the added benefit of an ingathering of souls. We need to think of revival among the people of God. It has marks of things like a passion for Christ, a greater desire for holiness, brokenness and a deeper repentance. It’s not repentance unto death, or desperation, but unto life."

First we need to pray for a revival. The Great revival in Lewis (in Isle in Scotland) in 1949, the last great revival in the Western world recorded (swept through an entire community for miles), was started by two disabled elderly women praying. Churches were so packed with people from neighboring villages, that hundreds of people were on the road side on their knees and the police station, because the chaplain there was a God fearing man. There was a dance of young people that night. They fled that dance as if they were fleeing from a plague, and the young people headed for the church . The bars were closed and never opened again, because those who used to drink there became elders in their church.The revivals of Edwards, Westley, Spurgeon, came upon mainly upon reform. I also came across this sermon called the "10 Indictments to The Modern Church" (sermon is available on the HeartCry widget on the right) from Paul Washer. If you belong to a church, it is important to note these things as disqualifications for any "Bible believing" church.

A practical denial of the sufficiency of Scripture
An ignorance of God
A failure to address mans malady
An ignorance of the Gospel of Jesus Christ/Unbiblical Gospel presentation
An ignorance of the doctrine of regeneration
An ignorance regarding the nature of the church
A lack of loving and compassionate church discipline
A Silence on separation
A lack of teaching of godly discipline in the life of a Christian
Allowed psychology and sociology to replace the Scriptures in regards to the family.

I will mainly be discussing #10. Let me share some statistics on how we are losing the war in Christianity in America. 75-88 percent of young people who have been raised in the church are leaving the faith after the end of freshmen year in college. Why is there an unspoken reality of an entire generation gap within most churches? Also, why are losing the twenty something group not only to the world, but to the emergent church movement that is spreading all over the world? I personally believe is because we no longer reach out this this group of people as it states in scripture. When young people reach a certain age (usually from 25-35) there is a need for them to come under godly council and not only that, they usually want it.

How I believe we have allowed psychology and sociology replace the scriptures is we no longer feel qualified to be of any help and leave it to the "professionals". This thought process goes against scripture. The Bible says in 2 Timothy 3:16-17 that "All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work."

From my own experience as a young woman in church that struggled with my marriage, and unfortunately I had to leave my church for a time to search out an older woman to help me. It wasn’t until I stumbled onto a Bible study called Titus 2 that I started to see hope. It is now my desire to pay this love forward to other women.

As I look at the entire book of Titus, it is an outline of how the church is to be organized and operated. In chapter 1 mainly talks about the qualifications of ministers and elders, chapter 3 on how to relate to those outside the church and the protection of false teachers, but chapter 2 is the mandate to the congregation. Who qualifies as a Titus 2 woman? Titus 2:3-5 is a familiar to most of us, but few really know what it means and how to apply it. Some think a Titus 2 woman has to have gray hair, and other women drop their daughters at youth group than say to themselves, “she is getting Titus 2 teaching from all of the older teenagers". Who qualifies? It says OLDER women, not old women. It helps to have life experience, but most importantly you have to know His word. It may be difficult to disciple a woman if you haven't been through the trenches yourself, but it's impossible to be of help if you don't know His word. The principles in Titus 2:3-5 can help. Young women especially when they are first married, or just have had a child need us so desperately. We are being unbiblical by not reaching out to them in love and encouraging them. This is a mandate on how we need to respond and make ourselves available to young women within the body.

I would encourage you to look up each one of these principles in Titus 2:3-5 (sober, discreet, chaste, etc.). The last principle in verse five is why I’m passionate about this secondly to the Gospel. Your Bible may say so the "word of God be not dishonored", or "maligned"; but the word in King James is "blasphemy". The word "blasphemy" distresses the true believer. We would never intend to blasphemy God's word. We don't say His name in vain and we love God's word. How can we be blaspheming His word? I’ll end by sharing a little word study on blasphemy…

A contemptuous or profane act, utterance, or writing concerning God or a sacred entity.
The act of claiming for oneself the attributes and rights of God.
An irreverent or impious act, attitude, or utterance in regard to something considered unbreakable or sacred.

I thought that last entry is interesting; isn’t that what our culture views marriage? I'm afraid this has leaked into the church. Being indifferent to His bride and not doing our part to uphold what God considers unbreakable and sacred, but it is enabling the act of blasphemy to the unbelieving world. Also, because we don’t practice this anymore in the church, pastors are overwhelmed in counseling sessions instead of being in their studies soaking in the Word. Instead of sharing the outflow of what the Holy Spirit could be teaching them, they are becoming more like sermon factories. Just by following this one passage alone will not only help a young woman, but free up the pastor so he can minister to the flock.

Churches who are implementing Titus 2 family discipleship, are watching their church revive. One pastor by the name of Voddie Bauchaum is one who is heading radical changes in his congregation in Texas, and has seen the benefits not only in the families, but the fruit within families are resulting a sweeping of souls into the Kingdom.

This video is one of the most powerful messages I've ever seen. It is a compilation of preachers of the past such as Paris Reidhead, Leonard Ravenhill, Duncan Campbell to name a few. I highly recommend every Christian to take the time and view it.

Just a Quick Testimony

2009-07-27T14:27:00.000-07:00

I guess I'll start as most blogs start and say I've never blogged before. I'll just tell you about myself. God saved me at the age of 25 when my life was nothing more than to get drunk as much as I could get away with and manage to go to work the next day. I've been a Christian for 16 years, so that would make me 41 years old. I don't know where I would be today if God didn't save me from the pit I was in. I'm so grateful. I'm a wife of one of the sweetest and most romantic guys around, Mike. I have three sons, Kyle who is 13, Blake 8 and David 6. Before I was saved, I was also a feminist, and really didn't have much interest in having kids. I think to be honest, I didn't trust my ability to be a parent. Once I had my first child, I couldn't believe God could bring such a love within my heart for my boys.

I'm not a good writer, but I love to communicate and share what the Lord teaches me. I thought I would use this as an outlet and hope it will encourage someone out there. I plan to start a video blog soon on the Titus 2: 3-5 principles that have reshaped my heart and attitude towards marriage. My marriage was in serious trouble for the first 10 years.

I've been married for 15 years, and it wasn't until a few years ago that I realized I was committing blasphemy according to Titus 2:5. A self righteous, proud, bitter, discontented, angry woman would not win my husband or anyone else to Christ. Once I studied and applied each aspect of Titus 2:3-5, things changed. My husband is now a true believer as of this past July. Praise God! I don't want anyone think this is some secret formula for making a saved husband. Only God can save. I also had to realize by my own failures that following the Titus 2 principles is not some kind of humanistic method on how to be happy. The benefits became a byproduct, and not the prime product. Once it became about the Lord and obeying His word because I love Him, and recognizing I deserve nothing outside of His sufficient grace and mercy, I rested in His providence. I know once I changed my attitude about God's word and made the changes, I became closer to God, thus bringing a revival in my home. Mike has changed in ways that only God can make happen. It didn't happen over night. It took almost 15 years. I’m far from perfect, but he knows I"m trying to be a good wife. By striving to love him unconditionally, being a trusted friend, showing the respect he craves so much and admitting my failures, is when he began to witness God’s grace first hand in spite of my frailties.

"The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed." Titus 2:3-5 KJV