What are Ethics? What are Morals?
What makes you decide what is right and wrong?
What IS right from wrong?
Us being Christians, our ethics should be based on the character of God. What does the Bible say about what is right from wrong? What would Jesus do in that situation?
Matthew 5:48 (New International Version)
48Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
We should only do, think, or say what our Heavenly Father would say, think, or do.
That doesn't mean that there won't be arguing among Christians about what is wrong and right in God's eyes. Everyone always says there will be "gray areas". However, I think that if you research that issue and pray about it God will give you a very clear answer.
Pray about everything that you do that is questionable.
Your sister in Christ,
♥♫•Madison
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Friday, February 26, 2010
Can you REALLY multitask?
The question isn't really if you can multitask, because if we are talking about physical ability, I sure can. The question is... can you as a Christian? To which the answer would be... not really.
Colossians 3:23
Whatever you do, work at it with all your hear, as working for the Lord, not men.
When we split our attention between multiple things, we significantly lose quality. This isn't to say that you shouldn't ever multitask. Sometimes it is necessary; but often not. Most of the time I find in my life that if I focus on one thing at a time not only does everything work out better, but I usually get everything done faster! Make sure your work is God quality, because you are working for Him, not yourself, your teachers, your friends or parents.
The one area where you absolutely cannot multitask is your relationship with Christ. If you are supposed to be reading your Bible or praying, don't let anything interrupt you. Hopefully you already know this, but if you don't it will be hard to get used to focusing on one thing at a time. Stick with it, you will learn a lot more!
Also try and think of only one thing at a time. When you talk to someone, don't think of what you want to say after they're done talking, what you're doing when you get home, or what movie you want to go see next. Focus on what they're saying. It makes for a better conversation!
In the end, multitasking isn't something Christians should routinely do. If you aren't sure, ask yourself if you are putting your full effort into your work. Even if you are on the computer IMing someone and trying to read an article at the same time, you are still having a conversation. Focus on uplifting the person- the article can wait.
God Bless,
Becky
Colossians 3:23
Whatever you do, work at it with all your hear, as working for the Lord, not men.
When we split our attention between multiple things, we significantly lose quality. This isn't to say that you shouldn't ever multitask. Sometimes it is necessary; but often not. Most of the time I find in my life that if I focus on one thing at a time not only does everything work out better, but I usually get everything done faster! Make sure your work is God quality, because you are working for Him, not yourself, your teachers, your friends or parents.
The one area where you absolutely cannot multitask is your relationship with Christ. If you are supposed to be reading your Bible or praying, don't let anything interrupt you. Hopefully you already know this, but if you don't it will be hard to get used to focusing on one thing at a time. Stick with it, you will learn a lot more!
Also try and think of only one thing at a time. When you talk to someone, don't think of what you want to say after they're done talking, what you're doing when you get home, or what movie you want to go see next. Focus on what they're saying. It makes for a better conversation!
In the end, multitasking isn't something Christians should routinely do. If you aren't sure, ask yourself if you are putting your full effort into your work. Even if you are on the computer IMing someone and trying to read an article at the same time, you are still having a conversation. Focus on uplifting the person- the article can wait.
God Bless,
Becky
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Overcomers
"Thought is action in rehearsal." Author Unknown
Our thoughts can so easily be contaminated by Satan. His sole purpose is the capture, control, and influence our thinking. Which in turn, influences every action, word, and decision you made.
What you think is who you are. You will become the person of your thoughts. So what do you think about?
James 1:15 (New International Version)
but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. 15Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.
We are tempted all the time to think about the wrong things.
1 Corinthians 10:13 (New International Version)
13No 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.
Whatever we are tempted to do, we can always stand up under the temptation. Sometimes we think that we just can't. We just can't stop lusting after someone. We just can't stop smoking. We just can't stop lying. News Flash: You can!
When God says that he won't allow us to be tempted beyond what we can bear, He means it. Jesus was fully God and fully man. He faced the same temptations we experience, everyday of His life on earth. And guess what? He never gave in. He never allowed Himself to give into the pleasure of sin.
Hebrews 4:14-16 (New International Version)
14Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. 15For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin. 16Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
Jesus has compassion and understanding for us. He knows what it is like to battle temptations. I'm sure we cannot comprehend the extent of His suffering through temptations, because we give into temptation all the time! We have temptation that comes in spurts because we fail; but Jesus endured ongoing temptation for 33 years.
Knowing this, we can approach God's throne with confidence. We can ask God to help us through temptation, because He understands. He knows what life is like. He knows how you feel when your heart is broken. He knows how you feel when it seems like there is no hope. He knows how you feel when your parents are arguing. He knows, He understands, and He cares. Doesn't that fill with joy when you know that there is always someone who you can talk to, that knows what your going through? We have a heavenly Father who cares about our hurts and worries. He loves us, flaws and all. No matter what you have done, you will always be accepted into the arms of God. We can battle temptation, and be overcomers! Victorious over Satan!
1 Corinthians 15:57 (New International Version)
57But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Love in Christ,
Jessica
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Favorite Things
What are YOUR favorite things? What makes you happy? What makes you giggle and laugh? Make a list of your favorite things! If you ever feel down in the dumps come back to that list and it will make you happy. This is my favorite song right now because I just start singing and it makes everyone else happy too!
Your sister in Christ,
♥♫•Madison
Your sister in Christ,
♥♫•Madison
Monday, February 22, 2010
There's a Price
Have you ever blatantly, outright disobeyed God?
I have.
You might be thinking, "Of course, we all do. It's called sin." That's not what I'm talking about...
Of course, sin is blatant disobedience and sin is wrong, but I'm talking about when God tells you specifically to do something and you don't do it.
Saturday night I was praying before bed and I asked God to put a situation in my life Sunday in which I would have to choose between His way or my way, and for it to be obvious what His will was. Not surprisingly, He came through. Sunday morning I was sitting in church service when a thought crossed my mind. I dismissed it, it came back, and I knew it was what the Lord wanted me to do. What did I do? I said No.
NO.
No God.
The very thing I wanted to happen had happened and I didn't want to go through with it. Was it to difficult? Not really... Was I tied up at the moment? Not at all... Looking back on that moment I don't really know what my problem was. I guess I just didn't want to do it, so I put it off till the moment passed. Was that right? Not in any circumstance. Of course we often don't feel like doing what God wants. Why would we? It's completely in conflict with our sin nature. As Christians we have freedom in Christ. Freedom from the shackles of sin. Christ has paid the price and we will be forgiven, but disobedience is disobedience. There is always a price to pay for sin. Every. Single. Time.
You have to choose if you are going to obey God's will and law or if you are going to follow the sin nature, but count the cost before you do. Is it really worth it?
Well...
Would you do something wrong if you knew someone would have to die for it?
1 Peter 3:18
For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous , to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit...
Would you do something wrong if you knew it would be evil in the eyes of the One closest to you?
1 Kings 15:26
He did evil in the eyes of the LORD, walking in the ways of his father and in his sin, which he caused Israel to commit.
Would you do something wrong if you knew someone would find out about it?
Numbers 32:23
But if you fail to do this, you will be sinning against the LORD; and you may be sure that your sin will find you out.
No? You wouldn't do that? Then why do we consistently think that the price we pay for sin is worth the momentary happiness- not true joy- that it brings? We were set free from sin. (Romans 6:7; 6:23) Break the habit! This is no way to live!
Your sister in Christ,
Becky
I have.
You might be thinking, "Of course, we all do. It's called sin." That's not what I'm talking about...
Of course, sin is blatant disobedience and sin is wrong, but I'm talking about when God tells you specifically to do something and you don't do it.
Saturday night I was praying before bed and I asked God to put a situation in my life Sunday in which I would have to choose between His way or my way, and for it to be obvious what His will was. Not surprisingly, He came through. Sunday morning I was sitting in church service when a thought crossed my mind. I dismissed it, it came back, and I knew it was what the Lord wanted me to do. What did I do? I said No.
NO.
No God.
The very thing I wanted to happen had happened and I didn't want to go through with it. Was it to difficult? Not really... Was I tied up at the moment? Not at all... Looking back on that moment I don't really know what my problem was. I guess I just didn't want to do it, so I put it off till the moment passed. Was that right? Not in any circumstance. Of course we often don't feel like doing what God wants. Why would we? It's completely in conflict with our sin nature. As Christians we have freedom in Christ. Freedom from the shackles of sin. Christ has paid the price and we will be forgiven, but disobedience is disobedience. There is always a price to pay for sin. Every. Single. Time.
You have to choose if you are going to obey God's will and law or if you are going to follow the sin nature, but count the cost before you do. Is it really worth it?
Well...
Would you do something wrong if you knew someone would have to die for it?
1 Peter 3:18
For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous , to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit...
Would you do something wrong if you knew it would be evil in the eyes of the One closest to you?
1 Kings 15:26
He did evil in the eyes of the LORD, walking in the ways of his father and in his sin, which he caused Israel to commit.
Would you do something wrong if you knew someone would find out about it?
Numbers 32:23
But if you fail to do this, you will be sinning against the LORD; and you may be sure that your sin will find you out.
No? You wouldn't do that? Then why do we consistently think that the price we pay for sin is worth the momentary happiness- not true joy- that it brings? We were set free from sin. (Romans 6:7; 6:23) Break the habit! This is no way to live!
Your sister in Christ,
Becky
Taming the Tongue
We are characterized by our speech. What we think is often what we say. The way we use our tongue can be for good, or for evil.
James 3:3-12 (The Message)
According to James, our tongue is a wildfire and can be used for good or evil. I love the part where is says, "a careless or wrongly placed word" can start a forest fire. Sometimes I think we just fly through life, not evaluating our actions and words. We don't take heed of what God is trying to teach us through our mistakes. We especially don't control our tongue the way we should. We can turn a peaceful situation into chaos with one misused word. In the last two verses of that piece of scripture it says "a spring doesn't gush fresh water one day and brackish the nest, does it?"
As believers who have been made righteous through Jesus Christ, we have to think about what we say. Is it edifying? Are our words encouraging and uplifting?
Crass, unthoughtful, rash words cannot come out of the same mouth that claims a relationship with the Lord. Have you ever thought about how you portray yourself to unbelievers?
If you are at walmart with your mom and roll your eyes when she asks you to do something, what do people around you observe? You are fulfilling the thinking of most people who think of teenagers as rebellious, rude, and uncaring; just living life for themselves.
I urge you girls to consider what you say to people around you. Make an effort to say things that you wouldn't be ashamed of saying if God Himself was standing right there. (and He is!)
Sometimes God uses instances in our life to make us stop and think. He did something like that to me a couple weeks and ago, and I had to tell myself that life isn't about me. God doesn't want me to think about what I want people to say or do to me. If you want someone to say something kind and uplifting to you, how about you say something encouraging to someone else who is probably feeling the same way as you! If you will just stop, and reconsider your words, you will probably make a difference for the better in many peoples lives.
*Stop and think about what you are saying
*Make an effort to change the way you speak
*Encourage others around you! You will find people much more fun to talk to when you just give them a little bit of edification. :)
Ephesians 4:29 (New International Version)
29Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
Your Sister in Christ,
Jessica
James 3:3-12 (The Message)
3-5A bit in the mouth of a horse controls the whole horse. A small rudder on a huge ship in the hands of a skilled captain sets a course in the face of the strongest winds. A word out of your mouth may seem of no account, but it can accomplish nearly anything—or destroy it!
5-6It only takes a spark, remember, to set off a forest fire. A careless or wrongly placed word out of your mouth can do that. By our speech we can ruin the world, turn harmony to chaos, throw mud on a reputation, send the whole world up in smoke and go up in smoke with it, smoke right from the pit of hell.
7-10This is scary: You can tame a tiger, but you can't tame a tongue—it's never been done. The tongue runs wild, a wanton killer. With our tongues we bless God our Father; with the same tongues we curse the very men and women he made in his image. Curses and blessings out of the same mouth!
10-12My friends, this can't go on. A spring doesn't gush fresh water one day and brackish the next, does it? Apple trees don't bear strawberries, do they? Raspberry bushes don't bear apples, do they? You're not going to dip into a polluted mud hole and get a cup of clear, cool water, are you?
More often than not, we all say things before we think. Words just come flying out of our mouth and then we sit in bed at night and think, "did I really say that to them?"According to James, our tongue is a wildfire and can be used for good or evil. I love the part where is says, "a careless or wrongly placed word" can start a forest fire. Sometimes I think we just fly through life, not evaluating our actions and words. We don't take heed of what God is trying to teach us through our mistakes. We especially don't control our tongue the way we should. We can turn a peaceful situation into chaos with one misused word. In the last two verses of that piece of scripture it says "a spring doesn't gush fresh water one day and brackish the nest, does it?"
As believers who have been made righteous through Jesus Christ, we have to think about what we say. Is it edifying? Are our words encouraging and uplifting?
Crass, unthoughtful, rash words cannot come out of the same mouth that claims a relationship with the Lord. Have you ever thought about how you portray yourself to unbelievers?
If you are at walmart with your mom and roll your eyes when she asks you to do something, what do people around you observe? You are fulfilling the thinking of most people who think of teenagers as rebellious, rude, and uncaring; just living life for themselves.
I urge you girls to consider what you say to people around you. Make an effort to say things that you wouldn't be ashamed of saying if God Himself was standing right there. (and He is!)
Sometimes God uses instances in our life to make us stop and think. He did something like that to me a couple weeks and ago, and I had to tell myself that life isn't about me. God doesn't want me to think about what I want people to say or do to me. If you want someone to say something kind and uplifting to you, how about you say something encouraging to someone else who is probably feeling the same way as you! If you will just stop, and reconsider your words, you will probably make a difference for the better in many peoples lives.
*Stop and think about what you are saying
*Make an effort to change the way you speak
*Encourage others around you! You will find people much more fun to talk to when you just give them a little bit of edification. :)
Ephesians 4:29 (New International Version)
29Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
Your Sister in Christ,
Jessica
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Low Battery?
Don't you hate it when you are low on battery?
If you have a phone you know what I am talking about. When you see that little battery go down and down you sorta get depressed(I'm using this term loosely). You think, "Stupid phone! I just have to have enough battery so my mom can come pick me up!" Trust me, I've been there too many times.
Did you know that all humans are running on a battery? Yupp, we all have our spiritual battery. Sometimes it's low sometimes it's high. Pretty much, it depends on that day. Emotions are a strange thing- especially for teenage girls! I know that I am either all the way out, or not out at all.
Revelation 3:16 (New International Version)
16So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.
How is your spiritual life doing? Are you low, high, or just lukewarm?
If your lukewarm or low, I suggest discipling yourself to read the Bible everyday and praying- whether you like it or not. It's a good way to get back where you are supposed to be. God will definitely work through those low battery moments and bring up higher and higher.
Matthew 5:14 (New International Version)
14"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden.
If you have a phone you know what I am talking about. When you see that little battery go down and down you sorta get depressed(I'm using this term loosely). You think, "Stupid phone! I just have to have enough battery so my mom can come pick me up!" Trust me, I've been there too many times.
Did you know that all humans are running on a battery? Yupp, we all have our spiritual battery. Sometimes it's low sometimes it's high. Pretty much, it depends on that day. Emotions are a strange thing- especially for teenage girls! I know that I am either all the way out, or not out at all.
Revelation 3:16 (New International Version)
16So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.
How is your spiritual life doing? Are you low, high, or just lukewarm?
If your lukewarm or low, I suggest discipling yourself to read the Bible everyday and praying- whether you like it or not. It's a good way to get back where you are supposed to be. God will definitely work through those low battery moments and bring up higher and higher.
Matthew 5:14 (New International Version)
14"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden.
We need to be the light, people look up to us believers!
C'mon girls! Let's keep our battery high all the time!
Your sister in Christ,
♥♫•Madison
Friday, February 19, 2010
Make Your Bed
Salvation is all in your heart. God is concerned with that, not your outward appearance. How you look doesn't have an ounce to do with your Salvation, yet it does have some to do with living the life of Christ.
1 Samuel 16:7 But the Lord said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart. "
Man looks at the outward appearance. It's just a fact.
If you are anything like me, you would much rather come into your room at night and find a made bed instead of an un-made bed. It's more appealing. It doesn't matter how nice the sheets are or how soft the mattress is. It looks more inviting when made-up well. The same is true of you. A non- Christian is not going to think much of your patience and empathy if they see you in stained, tattered clothes with knotted hair. I'm not saying you need to spend lots of money, or have the nicest clothes, but you do need to make use of what you have and give heed to your outward appearance. Remember that you are portraying Christ to the world.
Love in Christ,
Becky
1 Samuel 16:7 But the Lord said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart. "
Man looks at the outward appearance. It's just a fact.
If you are anything like me, you would much rather come into your room at night and find a made bed instead of an un-made bed. It's more appealing. It doesn't matter how nice the sheets are or how soft the mattress is. It looks more inviting when made-up well. The same is true of you. A non- Christian is not going to think much of your patience and empathy if they see you in stained, tattered clothes with knotted hair. I'm not saying you need to spend lots of money, or have the nicest clothes, but you do need to make use of what you have and give heed to your outward appearance. Remember that you are portraying Christ to the world.
Love in Christ,
Becky
Thursday, February 18, 2010
More coke
What is more important to you- the gift? Or the Giver?
Hebrews 13:5 (New International Version)
5Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said,"Never will I leave you;
never will I forsake you."
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Job Offer
NOW HIRING! APPLY TODAY!
EMPLOYER: the King
POSITION: Kingdom Builder
DESCRIPTION: Be ever focused on the coming of the Kingdom of Christ, Look forward to it, support the cause to death, recruit others to do the same.
TIME PERIOD: Starts at salvation, however the first few years are often a training period. After that usually people either get the idea or quit. Continues all through life. If you quit you can join back up any time.
SALARY: The complete pay is a surprise, but there are bonuses such as a crown, riches, and a home prepared just for you.
Will you accept the job God has offered to you?
EMPLOYER: the King
POSITION: Kingdom Builder
DESCRIPTION: Be ever focused on the coming of the Kingdom of Christ, Look forward to it, support the cause to death, recruit others to do the same.
TIME PERIOD: Starts at salvation, however the first few years are often a training period. After that usually people either get the idea or quit. Continues all through life. If you quit you can join back up any time.
SALARY: The complete pay is a surprise, but there are bonuses such as a crown, riches, and a home prepared just for you.
Will you accept the job God has offered to you?
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Objects in mirror...
You wouldn't drive looking in a rear-view mirror, right? So why would you live focused on your past?Philippians 3:12-14
Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Paul knew that he hadn't achieved everything in his Christian walk yet, but he didn't dwell on the past... and there would be a lot to think about! He was a Pharisee, persecuted Christians, martyred Christians, hated Christ... the list goes on. We've all done a lot of stuff in the past- good and bad- but you can't dwell on that. The good stuff will make overestimate your boundaries and feel prideful, the bad stuff will do the exact opposite. Focus on what you need to accomplish in your future, without tarnishing those goals with thoughts of what you've done in the past. Make goals for yourself and start over from scratch if you're having a hard time. The Spirit will give you what you need- but you have to take the first step.
Your Sister in Christ,
Becky
Monday, February 15, 2010
Peace
I think many people have a messed up view of what peace actually is. I searched google asking, "what does peace mean to you?"
These are some of the responses I saw:
"To live in harmony with my environment."
"Finding closure on hurtful issues from the past."
"No fighting and war."
"Satisfaction."
"A thing that will never happen, a great theory, but impossible."
"Unity, getting along."
"Peace means going to bed with a smile on your face knowing that you made someone else smile."
Most people think that peace just isn't possible. Because to them, peace is being happy; no war, no arguing, no debates... that is what people with a worldly view define peace as. Here are my thoughts on this issue, and how you can have peace in your life.
------------------------------------------------
Before you begin: If you have questions about salvation, or whether or not you are really saved, please read the post that I have linked here.
------------------------------------------------
First of all, I think you have to have a knowledge of God, and how totally and completely awesome He is.
With that knowledge of how amazing God is, you can fear the Lord. Now, the kind of fear I am talking about is not a scared, afraid fear. According to wikipedia it is wonder and awe of the Lord. And with that fear comes wisdom.
These are some of the responses I saw:
"To live in harmony with my environment."
"Finding closure on hurtful issues from the past."
"No fighting and war."
"Satisfaction."
"A thing that will never happen, a great theory, but impossible."
"Unity, getting along."
"Peace means going to bed with a smile on your face knowing that you made someone else smile."
Most people think that peace just isn't possible. Because to them, peace is being happy; no war, no arguing, no debates... that is what people with a worldly view define peace as. Here are my thoughts on this issue, and how you can have peace in your life.
------------------------------------------------
Before you begin: If you have questions about salvation, or whether or not you are really saved, please read the post that I have linked here.
------------------------------------------------
First of all, I think you have to have a knowledge of God, and how totally and completely awesome He is.
Matthew 8:27 (New International Version)
27The men were amazed and asked, "What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey him!"
Psalm 65:5-8 (New International Version)
5 You answer us with awesome deeds of righteousness,
O God our Savior,
the hope of all the ends of the earth
and of the farthest seas,
6 who formed the mountains by your power,
having armed yourself with strength,
7 who stilled the roaring of the seas,
the roaring of their waves,
and the turmoil of the nations.
8 Those living far away fear your wonders;
where morning dawns and evening fades
you call forth songs of joy.
With that knowledge of how amazing God is, you can fear the Lord. Now, the kind of fear I am talking about is not a scared, afraid fear. According to wikipedia it is wonder and awe of the Lord. And with that fear comes wisdom.
Proverbs 9:10 (New International Version)
10 "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom,
and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
I have always wanted to be wise. King Solomon was/is (will always be) the wisest man in the world. I have to say I envy him a bit. I mean, seriously, he could probably tackle my obnoxious, super-confusing science book in a week and totally understand it. Me on the other hand... *rolls eyes* let's just say science and I don't really see eye to eye. Unfortunately. :P
Wisdom is something that is really awesome. But the thing is, it can only come from God. I mean yeah, maybe you can go to Harvard and get this awesome degree, conquer the world and become President. But look at how much good that has done for our President. Does he really have the kind of knowledge that is needed to lead our country? No. Because he hasn't immersed himself in God's Word. The key to peace is wisdom. Says Solomon: (inspired by God Himself :)
Proverbs 3:13-17 (New International Version)
13 Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who gains understanding,
14 for she is more profitable than silver
and yields better returns than gold.
15 She is more precious than rubies;
nothing you desire can compare with her.
16 Long life is in her right hand;
in her left hand are riches and honor.
17 Her ways are pleasant ways,
and all her paths are peace.
Did you catch that last part? Her (wisdom's) ways are pleasant and peaceful! Those three steps are the way to have absolute peace in your life. By all means, I'm not saying that life will be easy! But you will always have that hope and peace, that comes only from the Lord!
So now, I challenge you to share this peace that you have found! Don't keep it to yourself. I'm sure all of you know at least one person who doesn't know the Lord, and the wonderful peace that comes with salvation. Invite your friend to go see a movie, then bring them back to your house so you can talk. Ask them if they have peace in their life. And if they don't... well, you will know what to tell them, right? :)
Have a wonderful, peaceful week in the Lord!
Your Sister in Christ,
Jessica
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Who Will Love You?
We have all messed up. Made a mistake or wanted to take a word back. Whether we like it or not, we ARE human and DO mess up.
I have been thinking a lot about this lately and the words that keep coming back to me are found in JJ Heller's song "Love Me"
I will love you for you,
not for what you have done,
or what you will become.
I will love you for you.
I will give you the love,
the love that you never knew.
That is the chorus(well the ending chorus). How beautiful are those words? God will truly love us for who we are and what we have done.
We may have lied, murdered, been prideful, thought bad thoughts, but God will always love us. Just thinking about how merciful he is brings me to tears.
Anyways, I just wanted to share that with y'all. It's such a beautiful song and means so much to me!
He loves us for who we are, flaws and all.
Your sister in Christ,
♥♫•Madison
Friday, February 12, 2010
Renewed
Romans 12:2
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is -His good, pleasing and perfect will.
The Greek word for transform here is metamorphoō, from which we get our word metamorphosis. Of course, we all know the most commonly used example of metamorphosis: the caterpillar. The caterpillar grows and eats, eats and grows, until it eventually forms a chrysalis around itself. Awhile later, POOF! it's a butterfly. Completely unrecognizable. No one could look at the butterfly and say, "Oh! You were that one caterpillar." No, because he went through a transformation, a metamorphosis, a complete change.
Are you able to test and approve what God's good, pleasing and perfect will is? If not, maybe you haven't been transformed. How? By the renewing of your mind. Dictionary.com says that renew means to (1) begin or take up again (2) to make effective for an additional period (3) to restore or replenish (4) to make, say, or do again (5)to revive or reestablish (6) to recover. So what needs to happen in order to renew our minds?
♥Transform them repeatedly
♥Make them useful to God for an additional period
♥Replenish them with scripture
♥Reestablish our hope and faith
♥Recover them and repeat the process if we fall away
Renewing your mind isn't an easy task. You have to do it every day, totally and completely. But isn't it worth the reward? You will be able to test and approve God's will. The main thing is that we can't do it on our own. Will you allow the Lord to transform you today? And commit to transformation for your life?
Your sister in Christ,
Becky
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Sometimes...
Sometimes- no matter how hard it is for us to accept- God says no, because He has a better yes.
Sometimes God says no about a boyfriend, because He knows that you couldn't control yourself.
Sometimes God says no about a new job, because He knows the ultimate outcome.
Sometimes God says no to close friends, because He knows that you need to rely on Him more.
Sometimes God says no to getting some new clothes, because He knows you don't really need it.
Sometimes God says no to things that we really want. And most of the time, if you are anything like me, that is hard to accept. Last night as I was sitting in bed crying to my mom about petty stuff that is going on in my life, she told me that "sometimes God says no, because He has a better yes."
How true is that?
So often I want to settle for just the good. I want to do things my own way, because I think it is the best way. But God... He is all-knowing. He knows the outcome of every situation in my life. I try to deal with it on my own, but what I really need to do, is give it to God.
You know what the awesome thing about giving your life to God is? In return, you receive this amazing peace, that transcends above all else. You are okay. Life is okay. God is faithful, and He doesn't want you to carry all the burdens of your life on your own!
Your Sister in Christ,
Jessica
Sometimes God says no about a boyfriend, because He knows that you couldn't control yourself.
Sometimes God says no about a new job, because He knows the ultimate outcome.
Sometimes God says no to close friends, because He knows that you need to rely on Him more.
Sometimes God says no to getting some new clothes, because He knows you don't really need it.
Sometimes God says no to things that we really want. And most of the time, if you are anything like me, that is hard to accept. Last night as I was sitting in bed crying to my mom about petty stuff that is going on in my life, she told me that "sometimes God says no, because He has a better yes."
How true is that?
So often I want to settle for just the good. I want to do things my own way, because I think it is the best way. But God... He is all-knowing. He knows the outcome of every situation in my life. I try to deal with it on my own, but what I really need to do, is give it to God.
You know what the awesome thing about giving your life to God is? In return, you receive this amazing peace, that transcends above all else. You are okay. Life is okay. God is faithful, and He doesn't want you to carry all the burdens of your life on your own!
Numbers 6:24-26 (New International Version)
24 " ' "The LORD bless you
and keep you;
25 the LORD make his face shine upon you
and be gracious to you;
26 the LORD turn his face toward you
and give you peace." '
God's peace is an amazing, comforting gift. I will post more about this on Monday!
Your Sister in Christ,
Jessica
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
What will YOU do for God?
What would YOU do for God if you knew you could not fail?
If you had ultimate power and ultimate resource? What would you do in this world to make a difference?
Ephesians 1:11 (New International Version)
11In him we were also chosen,[a] having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will.
We all have plans, dreams, and desires. We've all wanted to grow up to be "something". I wanted to be a cowgirl- boots, horse, the whole getup. However, I have certainly changed my mind over the past 10 years. What is your pupose? Your plan? What are you going to do in your life?
How are YOU going to make a DIFFERENCE in the world for GOD?
You may be thinking, "Oh Madison I'm only a teenager I have plenty of years for that!" Your predesigned pupose doesn't start when you are older- it starts NOW. Your teenage years are your time to plan and pursue your purpose.
Still think your too young?
1 Timothy 4:12 (New International Version)
12Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.
Seems like GOD has a different mindset.
Don't know what your pupose is? It's really simple to find out.
1. What makes you really angry about this world? What makes you emotional? What injustice is so awful you hate even thinking about it.
2. What do you spend your nights pondering about? What about that day makes you think and go through it all again?
3. What did you always want to be when you grew up? What comes out of those jobs(ie: mother- caring and kind, teacher- love for kids)
4. What do you love talking about? Do you love missions, photography, teaching, music?
How can you use your loves for God?
5. What would YOU do for God if you had the ultimate purpose and ultimate power?
Lastly, pray constintally about it. God will direct and show you. Still have questions? Contact me at iheartministry@yahoo.com
You girls are going to be WORLD CHANGERS!
Your sister in Christ,
♥♫•Madison
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Change of Heart
2 Corinthians 4:1-6
1Therefore, since through God's mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. 2Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God. 3And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. 4The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. 5For we do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus' sake. 6For God, who said, "Let light shine out of darkness," made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ.
My devotion this morning was on this passage, and it posed what I found to be a difficult question: How does God shine His light in your heart? I had to think about it for awhile. How has accepting Christ made a difference in my deepest, most sincere thoughts and feelings? How has it changed yours? Think about the words you say when you aren't thinking about it. Are you often hateful and rude to your family? How about when you first wake up and "aren't really thinking yet"? What you say then reflects your heart (Luke 6:45). Is the light and love of God upfront in your heart? Is it ready to overflow into your words and actions? Or is it hidden deep inside? In order for the things of God to be "default" in your mind, you have to memorize Scripture and constantly be thinking and praying on it. That's tough to do! During your quiet time (and I cannot stress how important it is to do this in the morning, even just a few verses. It sets the tone for your day and is well worth your time.) write down on an index card a verse that stuck out to you (mine today was Romans 14:8-9) and carry it around throughout the day. Whenever you get the chance, read it. It will be stuck in your mind by the end of the day! Remember that Christ should be Lord of you heart and mind. Make Him a priority in your thoughts. Don't think you're alone! I'm learning this too, day by day! :)
Grace and peace in Him,
Becky
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Like dew...
Deuteronomy 32:2 (New International Version)
2 Let my teaching fall like rain
and my words descend like dew,
like showers on new grass,
like abundant rain on tender plants.
Your Sister in Christ,
Jessica
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Proofs against Evolution:
• Lack of fossils in the fossil record.
There are large gaps in the fossil record that go against Evolution.
•There aren’t any species that have changed into other species like Darwinism declares. There have been changes in the same area of species, but never have more species been made.
•It takes two cells to make a cell and without one or the other, a full cell couldn’t be made up. How could a cell form when it needs another cell to form?
•The tiniest bacteria cells are far more complicated than any machine built by mankind. No living thing is simple, and how could such an amazing thing evolve?
• For Evolution to be true at some point a non-living matter must have come alive. Spontaneous Generation claims that chance processes give rise to life, but modern science is proving this wrong.
•Evolution says evolution happens in spurts, in short periods of time. This is false because Darwinian mechanisms claims that natural selection would go at a fast pace, too fast than Darwinism would allow.
• Lack of fossils in the fossil record.
There are large gaps in the fossil record that go against Evolution.
•There aren’t any species that have changed into other species like Darwinism declares. There have been changes in the same area of species, but never have more species been made.
•It takes two cells to make a cell and without one or the other, a full cell couldn’t be made up. How could a cell form when it needs another cell to form?
•The tiniest bacteria cells are far more complicated than any machine built by mankind. No living thing is simple, and how could such an amazing thing evolve?
• For Evolution to be true at some point a non-living matter must have come alive. Spontaneous Generation claims that chance processes give rise to life, but modern science is proving this wrong.
•Evolution says evolution happens in spurts, in short periods of time. This is false because Darwinian mechanisms claims that natural selection would go at a fast pace, too fast than Darwinism would allow.
Friday, February 5, 2010
KNOW what you know
Hey girls! I just wanted to give you a quick (but oh-so-very important) reminder to know what you believe. Often I find myself knowing the basics of my faith, but not enough to contradict someone who says otherwise. Not only do we need to know what we believe, but we need to know what others believe. Study other religions and ask people who believe differently than you exactly what they believe. It will give you a basis to fight for your faith and also draw yourself closer to Christ. Do some studying, and get into the Word!
Love in Him,
Becky :)
Love in Him,
Becky :)
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Dock your boat; stay there for life!
Hebrews 2:1-3 (New King James Version)
1 Therefore we must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we drift away. 2 For if the word spoken through angels proved steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just reward, 3 how shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation, which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed to us by those who heard Him,(Reference notes according to the John MacArthur Study Bible NKJV by John MacArthur)
earnest heed... drift away (v. 2:1)- Both phrases have nautical connotations. The first refers to mooring a ship, tying it up at the dock. The second was often used of a ship that had been allowed to drift past the harbor. The warning is to secure one's self to the truth of the gospel, being careful not to pass by the only harbor of salvation. The closest attention must be paid to these very serious matters of the Christian faith. The readers in their tendency to apathy are in danger of making a shipwreck of their lives. (emphasis mine)
Christians are in danger of drifting away from the faith. Why? Because we become so comfortable in our position, so okay that we are not growing in our faith because of our tendency to apathy, that we slowing start to drift away from the Lord. Sometimes I think of my life and what it is going to be like 30 years from now. Will I be married? Have kids? Have a job? I really don't know. But I do plan to be in God's Word everyday for the rest of my life. And sometimes thinking about that tires me. I think, "Wow I'm going to be taking time out of my day for the rest of my life to read the Bible. Won't it get old? Won't I have read through it so many times that I know all there is to know about everything?" Which quite honestly is just prideful; but that is a whole other topic. Anyways, my point is that even if we are spending time with Jesus daily, we always need to be challenging ourselves to do more. To grow further. 30 years from now, I hope that I will have grown much closer to the Lord, and that I will have a greater understanding of His word.
Right now, if you are reading 2 chapters a day in your quiet time, I would expect you to be reading 3 or 4 a day by this time next year. Why? Because when we are apathetic, and get comfortable, it doesn't mean as much to us. I challenge you girls to challenge yourselves. :) I can't make you do this! But I can warn you that when you become too comfortable in your faith, you can easily start falling away from God. We should regularly challenge ourselves to do more than we are doing at the moment. That is how you will grow in your faith.
Dock your boat by the harbor of salvation. Plan to stay there forever! Drop your anchor; stay close to the Lord all your life! Then, when the storms and winds try to separate you from God; they will have no chance to affect you. :)
Reevaluate the time you spend with the Lord. Consciously make an effort to spend more time with your Savior.
In His Love,
Jessica
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Trials raining down on us
"Behind every trial and sorrow that He makes us shoulder, God has a reason."
— Khaled Hosseini (A Thousand Splendid Suns)
We all go through trials. Some are greater than others, but every human has trouble of some kind. Troubles make my heart break, I must admit. I can be an emotional mess and harbor feelings of hatred, anger, or biterness. Whenever I face troubles I poor out my heart to God, sometimes even blame God for what has happened.
I often forget why God gives us these trials.
He give us trials so we will have triumphs and become stronger in our faith.
James 1:2-12
Trials and Temptations
2Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 4Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. 5If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. 6But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. 7That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; 8he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.
9The brother in humble circumstances ought to take pride in his high position. 10But the one who is rich should take pride in his low position, because he will pass away like a wild flower. 11For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich man will fade away even while he goes about his business.
12Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
— Khaled Hosseini (A Thousand Splendid Suns)
We all go through trials. Some are greater than others, but every human has trouble of some kind. Troubles make my heart break, I must admit. I can be an emotional mess and harbor feelings of hatred, anger, or biterness. Whenever I face troubles I poor out my heart to God, sometimes even blame God for what has happened.
I often forget why God gives us these trials.
He give us trials so we will have triumphs and become stronger in our faith.
James 1:2-12
Trials and Temptations
2Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 4Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. 5If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. 6But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. 7That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; 8he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.
9The brother in humble circumstances ought to take pride in his high position. 10But the one who is rich should take pride in his low position, because he will pass away like a wild flower. 11For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich man will fade away even while he goes about his business.
12Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
These verses say it all. Whether we like it or not, we WILL have trials, but with God's help we WILL push forward and become stronger in our faith!
If you would, please pray for me because I am going through some trials right now and would appreciate the prayer.
Your sister in Christ,
♥♫•Madison
You aren't well known? So what!
The Genealogy of Jesus
1A record of the genealogy of Jesus Christ the son of David, the son of Abraham:2Abraham was the father of Isaac,
Isaac the father of Jacob,
Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers,
3Judah the father of Perez and Zerah, whose mother was Tamar,
Perez the father of Hezron,
Hezron the father of Ram,
4Ram the father of Amminadab,
Amminadab the father of Nahshon,
Nahshon the father of Salmon,
5Salmon the father of Boaz, whose mother was Rahab,
Boaz the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth,
Obed the father of Jesse,
6and Jesse the father of King David.
David was the father of Solomon, whose mother had been Uriah's wife,
7Solomon the father of Rehoboam,
Rehoboam the father of Abijah,
Abijah the father of Asa,
8Asa the father of Jehoshaphat,
Jehoshaphat the father of Jehoram,
Jehoram the father of Uzziah,
9Uzziah the father of Jotham,
Jotham the father of Ahaz,
Ahaz the father of Hezekiah,
10Hezekiah the father of Manasseh,
Manasseh the father of Amon,
Amon the father of Josiah,
11and Josiah the father of Jeconiah and his brothers at the time of the exile to Babylon.
12After the exile to Babylon:
Jeconiah was the father of Shealtiel,
Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel,
13Zerubbabel the father of Abiud,
Abiud the father of Eliakim,
Eliakim the father of Azor,
14Azor the father of Zadok,
Zadok the father of Akim,
Akim the father of Eliud,
15Eliud the father of Eleazar,
Eleazar the father of Matthan,
Matthan the father of Jacob,
16and Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.
Sometimes it seems like if you don't have the right connections or know all the right people you won't get anywhere. Have you ever heard of Matthan? No?! Yeah... he wasn't a very well known guy. But he was in the line of Jesus. In fact, he was his earthly grandfather. You would expect really well known people of the Bible to be in the genealogy of Christ, say, Moses for example? Nope. Moses was used in huge ways by God, and so were many of the people in the line of Jesus, like David, or Abraham. God chose the others that aren't well known names for a reason. Obviously they served him wholeheartedly. So next time you feel like no one knows you or you aren't doing big enough things for the Lord, remember to focus on Him and obey Him in the little things. Years down the road He may use your life (or your children) to influence others.
"Often God doesn't call the equipped. He equips the called."
In Christ Alone,
Becky :)
Monday, February 1, 2010
Are you gray? Or bright, stunning, and white?
3-5Everything was created through him;nothing—not one thing!—
came into being without him.
What came into existence was Life,
and the Life was Light to live by.
The Life-Light blazed out of the darkness;
the darkness couldn't put it out. (John 1:3-5, The Message)
Sometimes people make me uncomfortable. They make me feel weird because I am not "into" worldly things. The other day someone asked me if I had anything other then "Jesus songs" on my iPod. "Well not really..." was my response. But when she asked me that, I felt weird.. like I wasn't cool enough to fit in because I had hardly any secular songs on my iPod. I can't believe I let that effect me. And honestly it wasn't really that big of a deal.
A lot of times us girls can be affected by the things other people say (especially our peers). We try so hard to fit in; to look good. But as believers we are called to live by the light. Our light should shine. Brightly. We are not supposed to "fit it" with the world because we want that attention. No! The thing is girls, our light that God has given us is not supposed to be a dull gray color that fits in with the dark, blackness of this world. No way. It is supposed to be white, and bright, shining in this darkness!
I encourage you girls that no matter how hard or awkward it is to shine; do it anyways! As Becky was saying last Friday: we have to evaluate our priorities. Do you let God shine through every single aspect of your life? Honestly ask yourself that question. I can tell you right now that I struggle with this in my life also. We are all in this together. I'm just here to help and encourage! :) Although it is difficult, those kinds of things are specifically put in our lives to make a stronger. (James 1:2) Make the best of it! Let your light SHINE in EVERYTHING!
Luke 11:35-36 (New Living Translation)
35 Make sure that the light you think you have is not actually darkness. 36 If you are filled with light, with no dark corners, then your whole life will be radiant, as though a floodlight were filling you with light.”
Let Jesus flood your life with His light. Then you can shine brighter then ever before!
Your Sister in Christ,
Jessica ♫♥
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