His Very Words

1 Peter 4:10-11
¹⁰Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. ¹¹If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.

Our lives as Christians have such an impact on people. We are being observed and watched by lost people around us. The other day, one of my lost friends said to me, "It's interesting to hear about God from someone who is so passionate about Him, especially if they are your own age." Never in my wildest dreams would I ever think I'd hear her say that. I just thought she would think I was weird for trying to share Christ with her. But the thing is, standing up for Christ and proclaiming His glory doesn't happen very often in society. There are people out there that are searching for the truth, but get too confused by all the different "religions" and "denominations" that they just give up on God entirely. That is why it is so important for us to live our lives like Christ Jesus. We may be the only Jesus someone might encounter. If you speak, you should speak the very words of God. His very words. Would God participate in your daily conversations? Would He say the things you say? Would God do the things you do?

1 Peter 4:1-2
Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because he who has suffered in his body is done with sin. ²As a result, he does not live the rest of his earthly life for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God.

Jesus lived for the will of God, not for any desires He had. Jesus had every right to be honored and served while he was on this earth; but He was despised and rejected, a servant to all. When we are wholly focused on God and His will for our lives, we will be a walking reflection of the Lord. And that witness for Him will shine brighter than anything else we could ever do. Give up that sin. Give up those desires. Surrender all to your Savior; arm yourself with the attitude of Christ.

In His Love,
Jessica

Dear God

Dear God,
Obviously, you already know what is in my heart, so you know what is in this letter even before I have written it down. While I don’t often understand your ways, I’m trying. Through my few years of life I have learned much-maybe too much about the evils of this world. Abortion, a cruel heartless murder of innocent babies, is evil and yet happens every day. People in Africa are suffering and don’t even have fresh water to drink. Throughout America, kids are being taught evolution in schools, taking away all your credit and saying there isn’t even a God.

When a girl gets pregnant, usually when she fell into temptation, she doesn’t think twice about aborting her baby. Most people don’t even believe it’s wrong and use the weak argument that they aren’t even for sure if the baby is living. Why do they not stop and realize what they are doing? You know what happens to those babies, they didn’t even get a chance to live for you and make a difference. I know in heaven all will be perfect, but please convict those young mothers who are contemplating aborting their babies. Murder is wrong, and you just can’t kill a baby.

Throughout Africa, there are millions of beautiful people who die because they don’t have fresh water. They are forced to drink out of hand dug wells that are infected and have poisonous water. Sadly, young girls are forced into prostitution and other kids are kidnapped and made into slaves. The amazing thing is- these people are madly in love with you and worship you throughout all of their trials with a happy heart. I want to have this attitude. Learning about these people makes me sad and joyfully happy at the same time.

Evolution is a growing into the only answer to how the earth began. Creationists are called “crazy” and are laughed at for their beliefs. When Charles Darwin first thought up Darwinism he would’ve never guessed that it would become so popular among our culture. Observing this evil up in heaven must be saddening and angering. I can’t imagine. Unfortunately, atheists are rising up to be the norm in our new generation. I know that when that final day comes the people will eventually realize who actually made the heavens and the earth.

These evils that are displayed throughout our large world are saddening and heartbreaking. Sickeningly, infants are killed by heartless doctors and mothers. When millions of Africans die because of the lack of clean water, most people don’t even notice, much less care. Evolution is being taught everywhere, taking away all your credit, which is unthinkable. Please God, restore our nation and our land. I know justice will be served.

Your servant in Christ,
Madison

Romans 1:11-12

I long to see you so that I may impart on you some spiritual gift to make you strong--that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith.

I challenge you to really think about your Christian friends. After spending time with them, you should leave feeling encouraged in the Lord. If you aren't feeling that way, start with yourself. Look for opportunities to uplift and encourage others today!

Live Like Your DYING

Recently I attended a funeral of a man who has changed my life. I didn't know him that well and hadn't seen him in around six years. He was one of the pastor's of the church we used to go to before we moved. Anyway, his funeral wasn't anything like I expected. Actually, this funeral was quiet the opposite.

As soon as I walked through the church doors I was AMAZED. Over a thousand people had come. It was packed. As I mentioned, I didn't know this man well (because we left such a long time ago), but he was special to me and I remember him clearly from so many years ago. So as I sat down and looked at the hundreds of people around the room I thought to myself, "Wow this man meant so much to SO many people!"

Honestly, it was the most sad, but inspirational thing I've ever been to. I don't really know how to describe it, but Tim lived the most amazing life I have ever seen. He touched so many people's lives and hearts. The service was three hours long and it wasn't nearly enough time. There wasn't a dry eye in the building, including grown men.

Finding out he had in cancer early last year, Tim knew that he was dying. The strange thing is, he didn't have change his lifestyle to "live like he was dying" because that was how he already lived! Think about that for a moment! This is so powerful because most of us live our lives pretty normally. We don't really take risks and chances, we don't see beyond selfishness, and we certainly, don't put God as our number one priority. I could overload y'all with amazing stories about Tim's amazing life, but I won't(at least today!).

Matthew 25:13 (New International Version)

13"Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.

Tim has lived his life well and without a doubt will be told, "Well done good and faithful servant. " I thank the Lord for letting me be able to be touched and changed by this man of God. We can all learn for his story. How will YOU live YOUR life? My hero, role-model, and inspiration is Tim Wright.

Your sister in Christ,
♥♫•Madison

Don't know what to say?

Don't know how to bring Christ into your conversation? I know that personally it's difficult for me to think of a way to share my faith with someone who is lost in an everyday conversation. Here are some great questions to ask someone to get that conversation rolling! (: As you ask people these questions, just kind of nod and "uhuh" all of their responses.

- Do you have any kind of spiritual beliefs?
- To you, who is Jesus?
- Do you think there is a Heaven and a Hell?
- If you died tonight, where do you think you would go?
- If what you are believing is wrong, would you want me to tell you the truth?

Some people may say "no" to the last question. If so, just say "okay." Trust me, they won't want to be kept in suspense if you know something they don't. Usually they will change their mind! (:
So there are just a few easy pointers to help you step out and share your faith. Don't be afraid, you have Christ on your side! (:

1 Peter 3:15-17
But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. It is better, if it is God's will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.


In His Love,
Jessica

Homeless

As I am writing this post I'm sitting in the car on a road trip. I just walked out of a gas station; there was a homeless man needing help outside. My heart immediately stopped and I was instantly overcome with a feeling of sadness. "How did this beautiful old man end up like this?" I wondered. God touched me about him in a way I can't explain. When I looked at his face I couldn't help but sadly smile. While we were in the gas station I didn't leave the window, staring at him. I stretched out my arm and started just praying for him. I didn't really know what to pray other than, "bless this man, O God. " However, I just felt a strong urge to pray for him. Honestly? I haven't stopped praying for that man. I was trying to think what I could to to help him. My mom had the idea to give him a sandwich. I was so happy she had thought of that. As we gave him the sandwich he smiled and thanked my mom and eagerly bit into his new meal. That broke my heart. He was overjoyed and SO eager just for food!

We take stuff for granted so often. We selfishly think of our own needs instead of thinking about the millions of others in the world just waiting for their next meal. Why do we think all about ourselves? Worrying about selfish purposes is just so selfish!! Did you know that selfishness/worrying REEKS of arrogance?
My mind is so opened and grateful for all the little things God has given me. I challenge y'all to reach out to someone today. Someone who is fighting to find just the little things in life.
Sure it's hard and out of our comfort zone, but that's what life is about right?

I am praying for y'all! :)
Your sister in Christ,
♥♫•Madison

{a quick word}

I just wanted to give you a word of encouragement for today. I am praying for you! I hope you have a wonderful day. Remember that you have a Savior who really, truly loves you. You can turn to Him any time. If you are feeling down and need a friend, please shoot one of us an email. We would love to talk to you. You can do it. Christ is with you!

In Him,
Becky

Surpassing Love

Ephesians 3:17-19
And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

Future Glory: Romans 8:18

I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. The creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed.

--Romans 8:18-19

Every suffering gives a glimpse of how great our joy and glory will be in Heaven. The glory revealed in Heaven will be more awesome than our current sufferings are hard. For each suffering we face we can know that Heaven will be more beautiful than that situation is ugly.

Free

Psalm 119:32

I run in the path of your commands,
for you have set my heart free.

I once was lost and now I'm found. My heart was once a heart of stone, but Christ has transformed it into a heart of flesh. (Ezekiel 36:26) We all had filthy, undeserving, selfish hearts before Jesus cleansed us. Sometimes it's good to think back to where we have come from; what we have been saved from. Christ has set our hearts free!
People may wonder why we would devote our whole life to Christ Jesus. But the answer is quite simple. We strive to please the Lord, we wholeheartedly serve Him, because He has free us from death! Take a few moments today to thank God Almighty, Creator of Heaven and Earth, for setting your heart FREE!

In His Love,
Jessica

Your Future Marriage

Recently, my dad and I have had some intense "discussions". I personally struggle with the self-control to be able to say my thoughts,but then back off and let my dad be the ultimate authority. Too often I won't be able to just say my thoughts and then leave it because golly gee I just HAVE to be right!! My mom pointed out to me that I need to learn to be submissive because later on when I'm married it will sure come in handy! Have your ever thought about how your relationship with your dad is going to deeply effect your relationship with your future husband? I sure hadn't! Your husband isn't going to be perfect, he is a human being just like you and me. Our dads aren't perfect are they? No. Just like our dad our husband isn't going to be perfect and will make mistakes. He may make decisions you don't strongly agree with, but he is the one in charge. God has specifically placed him in charge of you and your future family. Ultimately, it's up to him to decide what is best.

It's the same way with our dads. I don't always agree with my dad, but I trust him even through his decisions. I may not agree with what he is doing,but I know he is my authority placed in my life by God and I need to follow him.

Plus:

Colossians 3:20 (New International Version)

20Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.

If you obey and trust your dad it will have a deep effect on your future marriage.

God has called us to love our authority no matter their character flaws.

Your sister in Christ,

♥♫•Madison

Is your Jesus plastic?

Honesty

Proverbs 24:26
An honest answer
is like a kiss on the lips.

Proverbs 16:13
Kings take pleasure in honest lips;
they value a man who speaks the truth.

I know personally, I feel like it's very difficult to tell the absolute truth. Not in all aspects of life, but there are times when it's easier to evade a question and just tell part of the story, than to be completely honest. Have you ever felt that way before? As humans, we are sinful, prideful people and we tend to want to make things look good for ourselves. We never want to look bad and we don't want anyone to think negatively about us.
The Bible is very clear about where God stands when it comes to telling the truth. If you read through the book of Proverbs, there are numerous verses talking about our tongue and the wrong and right ways to use it. (See Proverbs 4:24; Proverbs 10:19; Proverbs 11:9; Proverbs 122:18-19, 22; Proverbs 15:1-2)

Proverbs 18:21
The tongue has the power of life and death,
and those who love it will eat its fruit.

Have you ever heard the phrase "you reap what you sow"? That same principle applies to our tongue as well. People do notice whether you are truthful and encouraging with your words, or if you are deceiving and degrading. Keep in mind what God says about being honest! Are you known for your truthful, honest words? for your kisses?

In His Love,
Jessica

Step Up

She sent for Barak son of Abinoam from Kedesh in Naphtali and said to him, "The LORD, the God of Israel, commands you: 'Go, take with you ten thousand men of Naphtali and Zebulun and lead the way to Mount Tabor....' "...Barak said to her, "If you go with me, I will go; but if you don't go with me, I won't go." "Very well," Deborah said, "I will go with you. But because of the way you are going about this, the honor will not be yours, for the LORD will hand Sisera over to a woman."

-Judges 4:6-9

I wonder what would have happened if Barak would have been ready and willing to take a position of leadership himself. Perhaps he would be recorded in the Bible as one of the greatest leaders of all time. There are times when God calls you to step up. It can be scary and hard to do, but even if you seem to be all alone, Someone is with you.

"The LORD will fight for you, you need only to be still."

-Exodus 14: 15

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."

-Deuteronomy 31:6

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."

-Joshua 1:9

"And surely I will be with you always, to the very end of the age."

Matthew 28:20 b

Be encouraged to step up and be a leader today! The Lord is with you!

In His name,

Becky

Together As...

Galations 3:26-28
You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.

We are the body of Christ. In Christ Jesus we are a family; ready to make a difference and united against evil. We are here to share burdens, to encourage, to love, to pray with each other, and to keep each other accountable. Each of us may be from difference churches, countries, or denominations, but nothing can separate that bond we have in Christ. Think about what a huge impact we can have on others together. If you feel discouraged because you think you are the only girl that is sold-out for God, don't be! You have a whole family of people who feel the same way as you! (:
If you girls ever need a friend to talk to or someone to share a prayer request with, shoot us an email at iheartministry@yahoo.com. We would love to talk and pray with you!
Have a blessed day!

In His Love,
Jessica

Matthew 5:41-48

41If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. ⁴²Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you. ⁴³"You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor^]"> and hate your enemy.' ⁴⁴But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, ⁴⁵that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. ⁴⁶If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? ⁴⁷And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? ⁴⁸Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

No Excuse

Romans 1:20
For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—His eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.

The magnificence of God's creation; when you look at the clear blue sky, or watch the leaves change colors in fall, it's all proof of God. People try to make excuses saying that God isn't real or that He just "isn't for me". But the truth of the matter is that they are all without excuse. Because you cannot step outside without seeing the greatness of our Lord and acknowledging that He is real! Be encouraged this morning by the fact that you can know that your God is the One true God.

In His Love,
Jessica

Like the Boy Scouts- Be Prepared.

Luke 12:45-47
But suppose the servant says to himself, 'My master is taking a long time in coming,' and he then begins to beat the menservants and maidservants and to eat and drink and get drunk. The master of that servant will come on a day when he is not aware of. He will cut him to pieces and assign him a place with the unbelievers. That servant who knows his master's will and does not get ready or does not do what his master wants will be beaten with many blows.

Jesus says, "Yes, I am coming soon."(Revelation 22:20) Would you be prepared if he came and found you as you are right now? It's easy to blow that off and live in the present. I mean really, life is pretty good now, isn't it? However, we are called to be ready, and working. What can you do?

• Make a commitment. Decide that living sold out for God is worth your time. If you do not think it is, then do not try. Although you will never be perfect, you will never succeed if you don't believe in what you are doing.
• Seek God's will for you. This means spending time with Him and seeking. Really, really seeking. Pray.

When Christ returns, I want to make Him proud. Do you?

Creative Best

Galations 6:4-5 (The Message)
Make a careful exploration of who you are and the work you have been given, and then sink yourself into that. Don't be impressed with yourself. Don't compare yourself with others. Each of you must take responsibility for doing the creative best you can with your own life.

Think about the kind of responsibilities and obligations you have in relationships, school, work, sports and just life in general. We all have a chance to give those things our best. Sometimes it's hard not to compare and evaluate who we are and what we do by the world's standard or the standards of our peers. In the end, God's opinion is the only one that matters. He wants you to push yourself, to dive into whatever challenge has been given to you, and to not just give your best, but your creative best. He wants you to be you. To use your unique gifts and talents to bring Him glory. Next time you are faced with something that may not seem too exciting or worthwhile, remind yourself that God wants you to do your creative, unique best in everything. Take up that responsibility and that challenge and run with it!

In His Love,
Jessica

Weary?

With school and activities back in full swing, it is easy for us to feel some days like we just can't handle it. The truth is, we can't. But Someone else can.

Matthew 11:28-30

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

Psalm 61:2

From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I.

In Him,

Becky :)

Hit List

2 Timothy 1:8a
So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord.

2 Timothy 4:2-3a
In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and His kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the Word;

When we become a disciple of Christ, God asks us to carry out a simply duty for Him: to share with the world the great news of His salvation. As I talked about in my last post, I really do believe that we don't put enough emphasis on actually stepping out and sharing our faith. It doesn't happen very often. We have such awesome news to share with people, yet we still don't tell them. All of us have various reasons for why Christ isn't apart of our daily conversations and interactions with others. From not wanting to "offend" anyone, to just being down right afraid, we neglect our primary job as believers to share our faith. Either way, the fact of the matter is that people are not getting saved. I desire a multitude of people to know Christ, but I don't see that happening in this world, because you and I aren't standing up and proclaiming Christ as we should. Although us alone as human beings cannot "save" anyone, we can tell people about God, giving the Holy Spirit to opportunity to convict and work on their hearts.

So where do you start? Where do you even begin sharing your faith?
I don't think that the best tactic would be to come outright and say, "you're going to Hell someday if you don't believe in Jesus!" Although true, it doesn't really appeal to people, and I don't believe that God wants us to scare people into trusting Him as their Savior.
The first thing you can do is intentionally think of people who don't know Christ then make a list with all of their names on it. I guess you could call it a hit list. (:
After you have made your hit list, you need to spend some time in prayer daily for each individual person on your list. Ask God to provide opportunities to talk with those people and to soften their hearts to His truth. That is going to be the most effective thing you can do.
Then, be aware of the time you spend with those people and make the most out of your conversations. Ask them if they know where they will go if they die, or if they have ever wondered if there was something more out there. People really are interested in the kind of stuff. Because, honestly, life is pretty down right scary without Christ. He gives us hope and promises of a great life to come! We have something to work towards, to look forward to. Remember, we are Christ's ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20) and we have the most amazing, spectacular news to share with people. Please don't keep it to yourself! Consider the mission Christ has given you, consider how important it really is. This is life-changing. And it's up to you to get the Word out. We can do this. We can stand up and share Christ and make a huge difference. At the end of my life, I want to be able to say that thousands of people came to Christ just because a couple of us girls decided to share our faith.
So now, with the expectation and hope that we can and will do great thing for Christ, I just have one more thing to say: "It's going to be epic!"

Acts 18:9
"Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent."


In His Love,
Jessica

Loving the Unlovable

Last night I had a dream about an authority in my life. My "authority" and I have been really clashing lately and I just find it hard to love her when she mistreats me.

In this dream I realized that even though she claims she is emotionless, she isn't and she needs me to be a light for Christ.

I generally keep to myself when I'm around her and am pretty quiet. I always thought that was okay and not a big deal, but God has been showing me otherwise. It's my job to be a witness to her.

I've had a hard time loving her because of the way she treats me. However, I realize this is wrong and am changing that!! :) Jesus teaches us to love the unlovable. Through my search of loving the unlovable I found these verses:

Luke 6:27-28 (New International Version)

Love for Enemies
27"But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.

Matthew 5:43-46 (New International Version)

Love for Enemies
43"You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' 44But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that?

Wow. Isn't that such a eye opener? We are to love and pray for our enemies. That is so profound. It is hard to pray for your enemies. Trust me, I know. But, that's what Jesus calls me to do so I don't really have a choice. As hard as it is, I am saving up treasure in heaven. I don't understand it all but I know that God has a purpose for every person that comes into my life. He is making me stronger and stronger spiritually through the people that persecute me. What about you? Who in your life comes to mind? Make it a point to pray for them today. I'm not talking a quick 30 second prayer either, I'm talking a 30 minute deep prayer for them. You can do it! I will! :)

I hope y'all are having a great weekend and happy Labor Day!!
Your sister in Christ,
Madison

You ARE who you are NOW and will never again be who you once WERE.

Read Ezekiel 33:10-20

"Therefore, son of man, say to your countrymen, 'The righteousness of the righteous man will not save him when he disobeys, and the wickedness of the wicked man will not cause him to fall when he turns from it. The righteous man, if he sins, will not be allowed to live because of his former righteousness.'..."
Ezekiel 33:12

Jesus' blood has redeemed us from all our sins. What is in the past has been forgiven. Allowing past sins to define you is not living the life of Christ.

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!"
2 Corinthians 5:17

In the same way, all the good things you have done before mean nothing.

"All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags..."
Isaiah 64:6a

So not only is wickedness put in the past, righteousness is as well. Kind of depressing, huh? The good news is that there is one thing that means the same for all days. Jesus Christ. Run to Him, cling to Him, and follow Him with your life.

Your sister in Christ,
Becky :)

Right Now

"If you always do what you've always done, then you'll always get what you've always got."

Think of that quote in terms of winning souls for Christ. When was the last time you led someone to the Lord? It's not really a consistent thing in many of our lives. But just think, if five of us shared our faith with one person a month for one year, we would reach sixty people. Those people would all have the opportunity to receive Jesus as their Savior. They may not accept Christ right then and there, but you will know that you planted a seed in their life and completed the task God has given you. This month, I want to challenge you to share your faith with one person. It could be a close friend, an acquaintance, a random stranger; it doesn't matter. I just want you to take a step of faith and do something. I will be challenging myself to do the same. If we don't start making a concerted effort to lead people to Christ, then what is our point of living on this earth? Matthew 28:19 says to "Therefore go and make disciples," that is why we are here. But if we don't actually do it, then nothing is going to happen. If you continue in your mundane life, not really caring enough to proclaim Christ, then you will never reach people for the Lord. And what better time to start then right now?

Matthew 9:37-38
"The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. ³⁸Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field."

In His Love,
Jessica

Influence

Us, as women, have such a great influence on others. I think it is so important that we make sure we use our influence very wisely, because we can get ourselves into a lot of trouble when we use our influence the wrong way.

1 Timothy 3:11
In the same way, their wives are to be women worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything.

In this passage of scripture, Paul is talking specifically about deacon's wives, but I think that we can also strive and pattern ourselves after this lifestyle and goal. This past weekend, I have seen girls use their influence to maliciously gossip about someone, I have seen girls use their influence to disrespect a guy, and I have also seen girls use their influence to uplift and encourage one another. I know you hear people say this all the time, but we have to have some serious self control when it comes to our words. I think that what we say has the biggest influence on people around us. You have so many people watching you, waiting to see how you react, how you speak, and how you live your life. I want you to think about the kind of person those people see in you. Do they see a beautiful reflection of Christ? Or do they see a girl who claims to know God, but is completely contrary to His Word with her influence?

1 Timothy 2:11
A woman should learn in quietness and full submission.

Our job is to be quiet. To quietly bring glory to God through respecting and influencing others for Christ. Being quiet doesn't mean you never speak and you never have fun. But it does mean that when you do speak and have a good time, you are very cautious with your words and your actions; that you have self-control over yourself. When you have that self-control and when you decide to use your influence for good, it will affect people in such an uplifting way that shows how much God means to you.

In His Love,
Jessica

Hillsong

Girls, I don't know what your going through today, but this song always lifts me up and makes me so happy.
Your sister in Christ,
♥♫•Madison

Quotes: Mere Christianity

"It is something like that with Christ and us. The more we get what we now call 'ourselves' out of the way and let Him take us over, the more ourselves we become. There is so much of Him that millions and millions of 'little Christs', all different, will still be too few to express Him fully. He made them all. He invented--as an author invents characters in a novel--all the different men that you and I were intended to be. In that sense our real selves are all waiting for us in Him. It is no good trying to 'be myself' without Him."
--C.S. Lewis

Technology

Hey Girls!

Tonight at my friend's youth group, the youth pastor shared a really eye-opening verse with us.


1 Peter 5:8 (New International Version)

8Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

We should be applying this verse to every area in our life, but especially in media. Do you ever catch yourself getting hooked on a website or just spending a ton of time on facebook? I know I do. The enemy is using that time for his own purpose. We spend WAY too much time hooked onto technology. It seriously eats up a ton of time. Did you know that if you averaged 2 and a half hours of technology a day that would equal a TON of work hours? You could spend all that time reading your Bible or investing in your sibling! Be creative! :)

You guys, God has given us such an amazing world that we need to communicate in.....and not just in texting.

Your sister in Christ,
♥♫•Madison

Take a look...

I would dare to say that every single one of us looks in the mirror at least a couple times each day. We check to see if our hair is in place, if our teeth are clean, if our face is presentable, to touch up our makeup. Usually, we just want to make sure we don't look bad.

Although it's good to pay attention and take care of our outer, physical bodies, it's even more important to evaluate ourselves spiritually. The Bible is kind of like the mirror for our soul. It points out the flaws and mistakes in us. And just like we try to fix our physical flaws we should try to fix our spiritual ones also. If you were to take a look into your mirror, the Bible, what would you see? I know that in myself I would see a dirty, rotten, ugly person. But I can work to change and clean up myself so that my reflection would be pleasing in God's sight. Ask the Lord to reveal and show you where you are dirty and need to be made clean. Dig deep in God's Word to understand how to transform yourself to be more like Him!

Psalm 19:14
May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be pleasing in your sight,
O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.


In His Love,
Jessica

School!!

Hey Girls!

Once again, I apologize for not posting more often this summer. Now that school has started I am back on my regular posting schedule. I am so excited for this upcoming year!! I cannot wait to see all God has stored up for iheart!

Speaking of this upcoming year, most of us have either started school or are about to start. I personally, am dreading starting this upcoming Monday. However, I know that it's part of life and summer will be here soon enough next year!

This school year is going to be filled with new things, new friends, new places. You never know what God has up His sleeve. My prayer for this upcoming school year is this:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Please help this school year be dedicated to you. Help me to honor you in all I say and do. Give my mom wisdom as she teaches me and my brothers. Give me endurance to get good grades and always push forward. Let me work being glory to your name. Help me to be a disciple outside of my schoolwork and into my other activities. Let this be a year of your work and your glory in my life and all the lives I touch through you.

Your servant,

Madison

I shared my school year prayer with all of y'all so you can write your own prayer and dedicate this school year to God. He is the one who gave us all our knowledge and talent. He is so worthy. This upcoming Monday(or whenever you start school), I challenge you to be excited about your school year and go into it with a cheerful attitude.

YOU CAN DO IT! :)
Your sister in Christ,

♥♫•Madison

Wisdom from Him

Where do you turn first when you need wisdom? Understanding? What about discretion and knowledge? I have a tendency to ask my friends or parents when I need help. However, when problems arise in life, we should turn first to the Bible.

Proverbs 1:1-7

The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: for attaining wisdom and discipline; for understanding words of insight; for acquiring a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and just and fair; for giving prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the young-let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance-for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.

Christian friends and authorities are often one of God's greatest tools to speak to us, but the best advice comes from the Bible. Check who is influencing you. When storms arise, do they point you back to God, or their own wisdom?

2 Timothy 3:16-17

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

Lost your joy?

Psalm 43:4
to God, my joy and my delight

Psalm 126:3
The LORD has done great things for us,
and we are filled with joy.

Psalm 16:11

You will show me the way of life,
granting me the joy of your presence
and the pleasures of living with you forever.

I've talked to lots of people who say that they doubt their faith; they don't really feel connected to God and they seemed to have lost their joy. They no longer take delight in His word; in spending time with Him. Just because you have lost that "Jesus feeling" doesn't mean you have entirely lost your faith. Even the great King David felt this way:

Psalm 51:12

Restore to me the joy of your salvation,
and make me willing to obey you.

David wrote this psalm right after he committed adultery with Bathsheba and killed her husband. He had sinned and was coming back to the Lord with a repentant heart. He knew he hadn't lost his salvation, but he had lost the joy of his salvation. Sometimes I think that is the problem with us. We sin so much, and then we expect everything to be perfectly fine between us and God. But we can't have an intimate, close, and personal relationship with our Lord without repenting of that sin and asking Him to fill and restore us to Him. I've had to do that recently; I had to come before God and ask Him to make me my all, my joy, and my fulfillment. If we don't consistently come before God asking for repentance, then we will feel far off and distant from Him. Plead with your Savior to show you your sin and ask Him to be your joy, your peace, and your everything.

In His Love,

Jessica

The low down, the what's-what, the dealio.

At lot has been going on here at iheart. We are all in the midst of praying and seeking God's will and His next steps for our ministry.
There will be a new template up shortly, however this will not be the finished product. We are hard at work on a custom template to give the blog a fresh new look and better suit our needs.
Above all, we need YOUR thoughts!

If you have just a few minutes, please shoot us an email (iheartministry@yahoo.com) and answer a few quick questions.

How can we better serve you? How could you get more out of iheart?

What could we do better in terms connecting more with our readers, leaving comments, etc?

What topics would you like us to post about?

Please add any other thoughts! We would love to hear them!

~Becky, on behalf of iheartministry

Turning that Spark into a Flame

Spiritual gifts. All of us have them, but the majority of us don't use them in the right ways or with the right motives. These amazing gifts of God can be used to bring so much glory to Him, grow us closer to Christ, and edify other people.

2 Timothy 1:6 (New Living Translation)
This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you... For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.

I have read these verses before but never really put the two together. First, Paul tells Timothy to fan into flames his spiritual gift; to use it for the Lord. Then he goes on to tell him not to be afraid! That is something that can really get to all of us. We are afraid of using our spiritual gifts. God may be calling you to start or be apart of a pretty daunting and overwhelming task where you will put your spiritual gift into play. Don't be afraid of what others will think or the stress that may come from that! We have the Holy Spirit inside us that gives us power and strength to overcome those fears. We all have talents and abilities that we can fan into a flame that shines the light of Jesus. We have this little spark inside of us. But I challenge you to turn that spark into a bonfire! Turn it into something that radiates Christ inside your life.

Maybe you aren't quite sure what your spiritual gifts are. Something I find very helpful is a Spiritual Gift Test. I can't promise you it will be completely accurate, but it gives you a general idea of areas you may be gifted in. If you are gifted with giving, see what ways your church is involved in helping the community. If you have the gift of music, maybe you can look into joining your church praise band; and so forth. God isn't going to endow you with a gift and then not provide any way for you to use it! Search for ways you can serve by using your spiritual gifts. Don't be afraid to step out there and use it for Him.
What are your spiritual gifts? How are you using them for the glory of God?

In His Love,
Jessica

We change, God remains.

2 Timothy 2:11-13
Here is a trustworthy saying:
If we died with him,
we will also live with him;
if we endure,
we will also reign with him.
if we disown him,
he will also disown us;
if we are faithless,
he will remain faithful,
for he cannot disown himself.

In the midst of all our struggles and storms, Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). One of the many things that amazes me about the Lord is that he is faithful, whether or not we put our faith in Him. He is always trustworthy and constant, not depending on if what think. Wherever you are in life, if you've pulled away from God or are having trouble trusting Him, he will still come through. Isn't it comforting to know that the Lord of the universe is not dependent on our every whim?

Seasons

As school is starting back up and we are getting back into the swing of everything, I can't help but think about all the different seasons of life God has had me in. Looking back, I can see how and why God had me in every situation. I can see how I have learned and grown through each experience and I can also see how God has used me to help other people. Some of those things I wasn't completely happy about going through, however, now that I have seen the outcome from the other side, I am so glad that those things happened. We are all beginning a new season of life and sometimes it can be sad or a little nerve-wracking. But you can always know and trust that God has the best in store for your life. His times are the best times. He has you in every situation for a distinct purpose and whatever circumstance or situation God has you in, you can be okay with it. Because there is a time for everything. He may have you in a time of dancing or a time of mourning, but you can always know that it is His timing.

Ecclesiates 3:1-8
1 There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under heaven:

2 a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,

3 a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,

4 a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,

5 a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain,

6 a time to search and a time to give up,
a time to keep and a time to throw away,

7 a time to tear and a time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,

8 a time to love and a time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace.

Preserved in Him

Psalm 119:50
My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life.

Life is hard. Suffering and temptations come often, and they are daunting! Remember that whatever you are going through, no matter how difficult it is or how big it seems, you will come out on the other side. Christ has given you life, hope, and a future (Jeremiah 29:11, John 10:10). He has overcome the world (John 16:33). If you have put your faith in Christ, there is always something waiting for you. He has promised eternal life and a home in Heaven (John 14:2). If you haven't surrendered your life to Him, do that today. What are you waiting for? If you have any questions or need someone to talk to, emails us any time: iheartministry@yahoo.com

Our God

We can never comprehend what a magnificent, powerful, and awesome God we know and serve. Just to think that we have a personal relationship with the Creator of all things is amazing! Romans 8:31 says: "What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us?" In this life, there will be so many people that will try to make you doubt your faith; doubt the very existence of this so-called God you serve. But you can know without a shadow of a doubt that our God is the only God. That He is the Name above all names. Don't allow those doubts to even faze you. God IS real and His Word is Truth. If God is for us, if He on our side, we will come out victorious in the end!

Love will hold us together...

Psalm 63:3
Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you.

John 3:16
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

John 15:13
Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.

Romans 5:8
But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Romans 13:10
Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.

1 Corinthians 13:8
Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.

2 Corinthians 5:14
For Christ's love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died.

1 John 3:1
How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.

1 John 4:16
And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him.

Precious Life

Psalm 139:13-14
¹³ For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother's womb.

¹⁴ I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.

I don't think we understand how precious each and every one of us are. God created every single human being on this earth; male or female, black or white, rich or poor, homeless or sheltered. I know that I am fearfully and wonderfully made, and I know it full well. But this world does not know full well that God is amazing and He has a plan for everyone. They do not consider God a matter to be thought over or comprehended, so they do whatever they please. And when you do not have the knowledge that life is precious, you do not care who you hurt or what you do.
This past week, a man in Connecticut shot and killed 8 co-workers and then resulted in taking his own life. I do not know this mans motives, but I do know that he did not value life and he did not consider that those people were masterpieces that God Himself created. He was mad or upset about something and took matters into his own hands and killed people. People do not understand that GOD is the Author and Perfecter of life and He gets to decide when people begin and end.

3,700 abortions are performed DAILY in America. 43 million are performed yearly across the world. Does that not bother you?
Our world puts more value in trees than it does innocent babies. If someone went around cutting down 43 million trees a year, people would be in an uproar. And yet, us as Christians are not in an uproar about abortion?

My purpose is writing this post today was to explain that life is so precious to God and it should be considered precious to us as well. This is not a matter to be taken lightly. It makes me so sad to see people disregard life and think that they have the right to take it themselves. Please consider what your part in this is. When you tear someone down with your words, or ignore the new girl at school, are you really valuing life? Luke 12:7 says that, "Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered." God cares and considers you a beautiful precious creation. He knows how many hairs are on your head!
Don't forget to cherish life. It is so precious to God but our world puts no value in it unless you have or do things that they consider worthy. We are all worth something to Christ. Consider life precious.

In His Love,
Jessica

Hey Girlies,
I'm so sorry for the lack of posts from me lately. I've been so super busy. I've just been loving summer and have been out of town most of it. :)

Anyway, recently I've been struggling with a friend. I've kinda been protective of MY life and MY friends even though she is lonely and needs them too.

I have been selfish with my thoughts concerning her. I have never wanted her in on my social life. My dear fren Rebecca (thanks darlin), has really opened up my eyes to what friendship is all about. Even though this girl may annoy me and I may not want her as a friend, she NEEDS me. As much as I don't ever want to admit it, I have sometimes put her off and have even been kinda rude. This is so not the Christ-loving attitude I need to have.

Even though it may hurt me in the process, I need to be nice to her and include her. God is using this as a learning tool. :)


Philippians 2:3 (New International Version)
3Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.

I hope this encouraged you today! :)
Your sister in Christ,
♥♫•Madison

Fragrance of Christ

Every path He guides us on
Is fragrant with His
Loving kindness and truth.
Psalm 25:10 TLB

Think of God directing you down a path. A path that is completely different from the path anyone else is traveling. But on this path you can practically smell Christ; His Word, His grace, His love. You can inhale and tell that you truly are following the Way.

Most of us are going to make some pretty life altering decisions on this earth, and many times, the direction and path God wants us to take is not perfectly clear to us. As I really thought over this verse, I came to the realization that whatever path God is calling me to take, I will know without a shadow of a doubt that it is His will. I will have completely peace and assurance from Him that it is the right direction. You may be thinking, "but how will you really know?"

Because I will be able to look down that path and see Him in every aspect and every detail. I will see His orchestration and smell His fragrance. And if I'm not completely sure that it is His will, then it's not. Because the path He will lead any of us on will not be a direction that is contrary to Him. It will be filled with the beauty and fragrance of our Lord and Savior.

But there is another piece of the puzzle we have to add in. You can't coast along in life straying from God and expect to be able to figure out what His will for you is. In order to be able to distinguish the fragrance of Christ, you have to know what it smells like! You have to plug yourself into God's Word and meditate on it so that you will be able to recognize how Christ smells. That is the key to figuring out the path that God wants you to take. You familiarize yourself with God's Word and His fragrance, direction and will for you will become clear to you. He will never lead you somewhere that is adverse to Himself and His Word. :)

In His Love,
Jessica

Questions, questions, questions!

Colossians 4:6
Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.

I do not know many people who really enjoy shallow, boring conversations and small talk. I know I do not!
If you have a hard time getting to meaningful conversation because you do not know what to talk about, here are some great questions to ask!

• What four things are most important in your life?
• If you were on a game show and got a chance to call a friend for help, who would you be most likely to call?
• What is your biggest pet peeve?
• If you could be invisible for a day, where would you go and what would you do?
• What do you think your friends would say is your best quality?
• What do you think is the ideal age?
• What would you do if you knew you couldn't fail?
• What qualities do you look for in a friend?
  

If your friends are Christians:

• How has God been working in your life?
• What is your favorite Scripture? Why?
• If Jesus physically walked with you every day, would you act differently? If so, how?
• How do you see God's glory displayed?
• What would you accomplish for God if you knew you couldn't fail?
• What Bible character can you relate to? Why?
• If God would answer any one question of yours audibly, what would you ask Him?
• In your mind, what trait is characteristic of a strong Christian?
  

Quiet Life

1 Thessalonians 4:11-12
¹¹Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you, ¹²so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.

Girls like to be right in the middle of things; to gossip, to get attention, because that's what seems to fulfill us and make us happy. However, God has so much He wants to do with our lives and when we are the center of attention and have our nose in everyone's business, we aren't living a respectful God-glorifying life.
I know in my case, sometimes it's hard not to just try to fit in with everyone and be right in the middle of all the drama and attention. But that the same time, I know that God doesn't want me to act like everyone else. That's not the best He has in store for me. And it's not the best He has in store for any of you either.

For example, my parents do not want me to have a facebook. And for awhile after I was told that I couldn't get one, I was kind of upset at my parents. I would always feel left out when my friends were talking about something funny said on there or laugh about some funny picture that was uploaded. It's gotten to the point that not one of my friends doesn't have a facebook. That was really frustrating to me for a long time. But I have come to the realization that I don't need a facebook, and all it would do is suck up time I could be spending with my Savior. Overall, facebook isn't a bad thing. But I don't think it would help me live a quiet life and to mind my own business. In fact, I think it would do just the opposite.

Those verses also talk about being busy with your hands. I believe that as young woman we have to be training ourselves to take care of a home and family. The best way for you to learn how to do that is to help take care of your families now. I see so many girls my age that don't know how to cook a meal or do a load of laundry. Those are things that you have to learn at some point! Ask your mom what kinds of things you can specifically do to help her take care of your home. Maybe make dinner one night, and then clean up after yourself. If you have never done that before, it's a lot of work. When you have a family someday, you can't text your friends and sleep all day long. God doesn't want us to be idle, He wants us to work and busy ourselves so that we don't get caught up in things of this world. Make it your ambition and goal to lead a quiet productive life that brings glory and honor to Christ.

In His Love,
Jessica

Psalm 28

1 To you I call, O LORD my Rock;
do not turn a deaf ear to me.
For if you remain silent, I will be like those who have gone
down to the pit.

2 Hear my cry for mercy
as I call to you for help,
as I lift up my hands
toward your Most Holy Place.

3 Do not drag me away with the
wicked,
with those who do evil,
who speak cordially with their
neighbors
but harbor malice in their hearts.

4 Repay them for their deeds
and for their evil work;
repay them for what their hands have done
and bring back upon them what
they deserve.

5 Since they show no regard for the
works of the LORD
and what his hands have done,
he will tear them down
and never build them up again.

6 Praise be to the LORD,
for he has heard my cry for mercy

7 The LORD is my strength and my shield;
my heart trusts in him, and I am
helped.
My heart leaps for joy
and I will give thanks to him in song.

8 The Lord is the strength of his people,
a fortress of salvation for his
anointed one.

9 Save your people and bless your
inheritance;
be their shepherd and carry them
forever.

Where the Healing Begins

Taking Risks

Matthew 9:20-22

²⁰Just then a woman who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years came up behind him and touched the edge of his cloak. ²¹She said to herself, "If I only touch his cloak, I will be healed."

²²Jesus turned and saw her. "Take heart, daughter," he said, "your faith has healed you." And the woman was healed from that moment.

This woman had been sick for years, she had gone to doctor after doctor and yet her illness had still not left her. She had such faith in Christ that she knew if she just reached out and touched the edge of His cloak she would be healed. I'm sure that was one of the most nerve-wracking things she had ever done. Imagine this woman standing in the middle of a huge crowd that is pushing and shoving to get a glimpse of Christ. This woman knew that this man was Jesus Christ and had power over all creation. She knew He could heal her. All she had to do was reach out her hand and touch his clothing. And she did! If only we could have the same kind of faith as this woman. If she didn't have full faith and trust that Jesus could heal her, maybe things wouldn't have ended up the same. God has each of us on the earth for a specific purpose. His desire for us is not to get comfortable in our everyday lives. He wants us out of our comfort zone so we will rely on Him for everything. Maybe God is calling you to do something risky for Him. Maybe He is knocking on your heart waiting for you to respond to Him. Will you reach out to Him like that woman? Will you have faith that God can do anything and everything? Are you willing to risk your dreams for His?

Matthew 17:20

"I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."

God says we can do anything if we have faith as small as a mustard seed. If we would just take step of faith and do whatever God asks us to do, we would be amazed at how He works in our life. Look at the areas of your life you are maybe getting a little too comfortable in. Is your quiet time becoming more a routine than a personal time of reflection with your Savior? When was the last time you shared your faith with a friend? Ask God to reveal to you what He wants you to do in a step of faith. I can almost assure you that it won't be something that you will be overjoyed about doing. It might scare you to let God consume your life and to do whatever He wants you to do. You might have to give up something you have always wanted, something you have dreamed of doing or having. But ultimately, what He has in store for us, the story He is writing for us, is better than anything we could ever imagine.

In His Love,

Jessica

A Kiss From God

"A letter represents something far more than a kiss ever could. It evidences thoughtfulness and the gift of time. While a kiss can prove tender, it must overcome the stigma of impulsiveness to truly display love. A letter, on the other hand, when written in the spirit of ardor and romance - even if it never mentions passion - strokes the heart deeper than any other form of physical touch. A kiss cannot be felt again and again from great distance; but a letter can be read and reread thousands of times. A kiss only familiarizes lips with the physical body of a lover. A letter familiarizes the heart, mind, and soul. Maybe that's why God chose to write us a letter."

~Eric Ludy, When Dreams Come True

Sometimes I wonder why God did not give us a more obvious display of His love, like a kiss. He gave us much better. Not only did He gave us a letter, to read about Him and His love, but He gave us the most precious gift; the life of His Son.

As We Wait

Titus 1:16
They claim to know God, but by their actions they deny him. They are detestable, disobedient and unfit for doing anything good.

In that passage of scripture, Paul is writing to Titus about the mere talkers and deceivers (vs 10); the people who don't live what out what they believe. These people had heard all about Jesus and His mercy and grace, but yet they still clung to their worldly passions. According to Paul they were "unfit for doing anything good." They were undisciplined and were not training themselves to be more like Christ.
When we first become a Christian, our sin doesn't just magically disappear. It is a gradual process to cleanse yourself of sin. Unfortunately, that sin will never completely be gone until we get to Heaven. My point is that we are all in the process of being transformed more into the likeness of Christ. We are training our bodies to run the race set before us. In order to be ready to run this race, we have to discipline ourselves. One of the things most forgotten by Christians is that we are sinful and undeserving and we continually have to make an effort to be more like Jesus.

Titus 2:11-12
For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age...

We have to say no to that sin in our life. We have to do as much as we possibly can to rid ourselves of everything that displeases God. He teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness. God will never ask you to give anything up for Him that isn't for your good. So if God is convicting you of sin in your life, don't wait to give it up. All that sin does is hinder your relationship with Christ.

Titus 2:13-14
...while we wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.

Jesus has redeemed and purified us from our sin! We are His very own. Be eager to live a life that brings Him all the honor and glory. As we await the glorious appearing of our very own Savior, remove from yourself everything that is a stumbling block in your relationship with Him!

In His Love,
Jessica

Romans 12:2

Romans 12:2 (Today's New International Version)
2 Do not conform 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

What does it mean to not conform to the world?
Some people think it means to just not do everything the world does or just live for Christ.

The meaning of the the word conform is this:

con·form   /kənˈfɔrm/ Show Spelled[kuhn-fawrm] Show IPA
–verb (used without object)
1. to act in accordance or harmony; comply (usually fol. by to ): to conform to rules.
2. to act in accord with the prevailing standards, attitudes, practices, etc., of society or a group: One has to conform in order to succeed in this company.
3. to be or become similar in form, nature, or character.
4. to be in harmony or accord.
5. to comply with the usages of an established church, esp. the Church of England.

That sure makes this Bible verse a lot bigger!! Most of the Christians here on earth have "conformed" to this world one way or another.
We have such a short time on this earth to make a difference! There is no time to be conformed!
We have to get out of our comfort zone and be different!
Christians are constantly in the middle, we have to choose a side with all our heart. God doesn't want lukewarm. Lately, I've been too lukewarm and I realize how wrong I was!

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.

Throw out those things in your life that make you lukewarm and the same as everyone else! Be transformed!

Your sister in Christ,

♥♫•Madison

Scripture Memory

You have probably been told that Scripture memory should be an important part of a Christian's life. Growing up in church, I memorized Bible verses in AWANA and Sunday School, but I didn't have a grasp on what the point really was. Psalm 1:2 says the man who meditates on God's law will be blessed. When you hide His word in your heart, you can use it to combat Satan, as Jesus did in Matthew 4. Start by finding one verse that applies to something you are going through, or pick a Psalm to memorize. Right now I am working on Psalm 16. Repeating what you are memorizing throughout the day will help you focus your thoughts on the Lord and bring you closer to Him!
I pray that you would grow in the Lord and have a fantastic day!

Love in Christ,
Becky

Live like it!

1 John 2:5b-6
This is how we know we are in him: Whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus did.

Recently in my quiet time and even as I write posts for iheart God just keep revealing and bringing to my attention that I must walk as Jesus did. Over and over again I read verses that tell me to imitate Jesus' life, to strive after His perfection. It's something that God has really laid on my heart lately. If you read throughout the first 4 books of the New Testament you have numerous testimonies and witnesses to events that happen in the life of Christ. You can see how to answer people when they frustrate you, what your opinion should be about divorce, how to flee temptation...Jesus paints the perfect picture of how we should go about living in this world. This verse just really hit me. If I claim to have relationship with Christ then I have to live like it. His grace, mercy, compassion, and love should overflow from my heart. It fills up all the holes and cracks in my sinful life and just completely bubbles forth from me. I really want to challenge you girls to seriously live like Christ. To really make an enormous effort to follow His example. I hope that you will join me in my efforts to live a life like my Savior. I can't even imagine the blessings we will receive when we do what God asks of us. When we fully surrender ourselves and live like Him.

In His Love,
Jessica

Priceless Salvation

Attitudes are contagious. Are yours worth catching? -Wendy Mannering

Ever felt like you just had a bad day?
I have.
I had one pretty recently actually. All I wanted to do was come home, wallow in self-pity and maybe cry a little. Because things didn't go the way I wanted them to.
But, as I was sitting in the car on the way home, I got to thinking of all the good things that happened that day. Things that could have not happened, and yet they did.
Sometimes I look past those little things that made my day a blessing. No matter what is going on, I am always blessed. I am blessed to be wearing clothing, blessed to have had a meal, blessed to be able to take a breath on my own.
A lot of times when people have a rough day, they tend to blame it on God. But the fact of the matter is that both Christians and non-Christians alike will have good times and bad times.

Matthew 5:45 (New International Version)
He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.

That was the verse that came to my mind during my "bad day." God doesn't sit up in heaven and decide that I am going to be frustrated. Life will run it's course and some bad thing are going to happen. My response to that is what really makes an effect on what kind of day I have. Our attitude and reaction makes the biggest difference in our lives. Because, quite frankly, in comparison to some other people in the world, I had a fabulous day. It was just my selfishness that got in the way of everything. Because I decided to be kind of mopey and woe is me. I chose to act like that, instead of looking at God and thanking Him for the good in my life.

Philippians 2:5 (New Living Translation) You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.

So this is what we do to overcome those bad days. We base our attitude off of Jesus. We see what kind of attitude He had. Three things came to mind when I thought about Jesus' attitude.
The first thing that came to mind was that He was selfless. He always looked to others needs instead of His own. He did not act like everything was about Him, even though it was.
Secondly, He was sacrificial. For the last couple years of His life, Jesus gave up a permanent home, food, personal belongings, family, friends, and worldly comfort. He gave all of those things up so that He could minister to others. Then He made the Ultimate Sacrifice by dieing on the cross for our sins!
Third of all, He was a servant. Although He deserves the highest praise, He gave that up to serve others, to humble Himself, to wash others feet.

Decide to have a good attitude. Choose to have the same attitude as Christ. That is what really makes an impact on your life. And besides that just making an affect on your own life, it will affect the lives of others around you.

In His Love,
Jessica

How He Loves Us

This is how much he loves us!
No matter how unworthy we are, he always loves us. He loves us so much. There is no way we deserve to be here, he died so we could be.

I suggest you put that song on your iPod and just listen to it over and over again. Try and wrap your mind around how much he loves us! It's impossible!! I just fall in love with God again when I think about the way he loves us.

Here are my favorite verses about how he loves us:

Psalm 52:8
But I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God; I trust in God's unfailing love for ever and ever.

Psalm 36:7
How priceless is your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings.

1 John 4:8
Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.

God is the very definition of love! He laid down his life for undeserving sinners! He is so amazing.

His love just surrounds us daily, lets learn to shine in it and show love to others!

Your sister in Christ,
Madison

Listen to Him

Have you ever been amazed by what your friends can see that you cannot? I know I have. They will say something like, "You're overreacting," or, "Can't you see, he's a jerk!" Sometimes you cannot see what is really going on because you are to close to the situation. However, if you take a step back and look at everything, you usually find that they are right. It is easy to get so caught up in something that you cannot see the bigger picture. The same is true of the Holy Spirit! He convicts us of sins and bad choices in our life that we often overlook.

John 16:7-11
But I tell you the truth: It is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Counselor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. When he comes, he will convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment: in regard to sin, because men do not believe in me; in regard to righteousness, because I am going to the Father, where you can see me no longer; and in regard to judgment, because the prince of this world now stands condemned.

Jesus himself said it, the Spirit is here to convict us of sin, and Satan now stands condemned! We can be free of our sin through Christ Jesus. Be willing to give it up for His sake.

In Him,
Becky

Today Is The Day

Psalm 118:24
This is the day the LORD has made;
let us rejoice and be glad in it.

This is the only July 5, 2010 there will ever be. Use it to do something that has eternal significance.
Smile at an elderly lady at the grocery store, compliment your siblings, or give your testimony. Make a difference, no matter how small of one it might be.

In Christ,
Jessica

Siblings

Siblings.

The good. The bad. The ugly.
You pretty much go through everything with your siblings around. They are always there, whether you want them to be or not. I personally love my little brothers, but they sometimes really get on my nerves....if you know what I mean!

Last night I was having a fit(yes I know, REALLY bad of me) about ice cream. I fell asleep and apparently I was talking in my sleep saying, "ice cream, ice cream!!". When I woke up all I could think about was ice cream and I was really grumpy. My little brother Cooper came in and started to comfort and snuggle me saying, "aww it's okay we'll get ice cream tomorrow!!" It was so sweet and make me realize how STUPID I was. Anyway, I have the cutest little 9 year old brother ever.

I've really learned a lot (and am still learning!) about how to relate to them and hold my comments in. My brothers are such a blessing and though sometimes I don't realize that, I love them so much.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (New International Version)

9 Two are better than one,
because they have a good return for their work:

10 If one falls down,
his friend can help him up.
But pity the man who falls
and has no one to help him up!


I love this verse because it really describes our siblings. Two are always better than one!
As you go through this beautiful day, remember that your siblings are a blessing from God and there is no one like them!! :)

Your sister in Christ,
Madison

Little Things

I read a note someone wrote me the other day and in it she phrased the question: Am I trying to please God? Or the world? I really had to think about that for a moment. I find it so easy to get absorbed in the world even though everything about it portrays the exact opposite of what God wants us to think. For me, I have a big issue with clothes. I will get up every morning and look at my closet and think, "Uhh, I have nothing to wear today." When the truth is, I have 40 shirts that are perfectly fine. I feel like I have this person looming over me telling me, "Jessica... you just wore that outfit to church 3 weeks ago. Don't you think that's a little tacky?" and I feel like screaming back, "yeah I know! But I have nothing to wear!"

Honestly, Satan tries to attack us through avenues like trying to live up to the world's standards. Because we have Jesus in our hearts, he cannot affect us in such a way where he consumes and posseses us, however, he can shove all these things in our face that are hard for us to overcome. Through little things like reading romance novels that make us doubt waiting for the right guy, or when your "Christian" friends want to go see a movie that is "just PG-13" when you know that it will have inappropriate scenes and language in it. Those little things in life are so important for us to conquer. When God asks for our whole-hearted devotion to Him, He is pretty serious about it. In God's eyes, even those small seemingly petty things like worldly music and magazines can have an affect on our attitude.

Galations 1:10
Obviously, I’m not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ’s servant.

I am trying to make a more concerted effort to be thankful with God has blessed me with! He can give me the power and strength to overcome even those small temptations in life. He really does care about every hurt or worry we could ever have.

1 John 5:14
This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.

That's the amazing thing about God! He doesn't want us to be frustrated with trying to please the world. If we ask Him to help us with that, He will! (:
Have a great weekend girls!


In His Love,
Jessica