New year, new start, renewed trust.

I get a little apprehensive when it comes to a new year. It is as if I have a good friend called 2009 established right now, and I'm going to have to leave them. Even worse is that this 2010 thing is supposed to replace them. I'm comfortable where I am; everything is good- but wait- isn't that the problem? It brings to mind a song by Brandon Heath: (Don't Get Comfortable)

Comfortable, don’t get comfortable.
I am gonna’ move this mountain then I’m gonna move you in.

Yesterday, this is not yesterday.
You were standing on my shoulders now; you’re standing on the edge.
You’ve been looking for a sign all this time.

I am gonna show you what I mean
I am gonna love like you’ve never seen
You are gonna live like you used to dream
This is your new song

So afraid but you don’t have to be afraid
Even if you make mistakes
You know that I’ll remain
You’ve been looking for a sign all this time.
If you seek you’ll find me every time.

I think God gives us a new year for two reasons: 1. so that we can have a "fresh start" and 2. So that we can rely on Him more fully. No one knows what will happen in 2010, or and year following that, but the Lord promises He will stay near us.

~Matthew 28:20
²⁰and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

~Exodus 13:21
²¹ By day the LORD went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud to guide them on their way and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, so that they could travel by day or night.

~Exodus 23:20
²⁰ "See, I am sending an angel ahead of you to guard you along the way and to bring you to the place I have prepared.

~Deuteronomy 9:3
³ But be assured today that the LORD your God is the one who goes across ahead of you like a devouring fire. He will destroy them; he will subdue them before you. And you will drive them out and annihilate them quickly, as the LORD has promised you.

Christ has promised to prepare before us and stay beside us through whatever happens. Not only that, but he has gone ahead to prepare a place in Heaven with us as well! We are told repeatedly not to fear. The Lord will be with us in 2010 and always after that. Renew your commitment to Him and allow Him to overwhelm your life- you won't be sorry!

Happy New Year!
In Christ,
Becky :)

Reading through the Bible in 365 days

It is almost 2010! With a new year comes a fresh start to everything-school, sports...etc. I would encourage you to start (if you already haven't) reading your Bible everyday. It is so important for the strengthening of your relationship with Jesus. If you are reading your Bible consistently, why don't you up your reading a little bit? Instead of reading through the Bible in a year, how about 6 months? From then on you can try to do it in smaller and smaller increments of time. I promise you that you will be mightily blessed by doing that! Our relationship with Jesus isn't something to be taken lightly. Our Lord is Creator and Sustainer of every living thing. We should be in awe and yearn to spend time with Him everyday. It may be difficult to get into the "habit" of consistently reading your Bible, but when you look back at the choice that you made to do that, you will be so happy! Attached below is a schedule to help you read through the Bible in one year. It tells you what verses you have to read- and it should only take you about 30 minutes! Enjoy your time with Jesus this year. I pray that God will become more real to you than ever, and that your light will shine even brighter!

Psalm 145:3
Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise;
his greatness no one can fathom.


http://www.arcamax.com/ttb-yr-print.html

In His Love,
Jessica ♫♥

Choices :)

Hello dear friends!
We are back! :) I hope this past week has been one filled with blessings and fellowship in the celebration on our Savior's birth. I've missed writing on here, even though it was just a week! :) Today I want to talk about choices and how they affect our lives, and the lives of others around us. Whether it be a negative or positive way our choices make a huge difference in our lives.

2 Samuel 12:13-18

¹³ Then David said to Nathan, "I have sinned against the LORD."
Nathan replied, "The LORD has taken away your sin. You are not going to die. ¹⁴ But because by doing this you have made the enemies of the LORD show utter contempt, the son born to you will die."

¹⁵ After Nathan had gone home, the LORD struck the child that Uriah's wife had borne to David, and he became ill. ¹⁶ David pleaded with God for the child. He fasted and went into his house and spent the nights lying on the ground. ¹⁷ The elders of his household stood beside him to get him up from the ground, but he refused, and he would not eat any food with them.

¹⁸ On the seventh day the child died.

David made a life changing choice. He succummed to his desires and committed adultery with Bathsheba. David had a consequence for his choice- his son died. Can you imagine how life shattering that was for him? All because of that one choice. I'm sure if he could have gone back, he would have made a different decision. In the end, David begged God for forgiveness and God was merciful to David and he went on to become one of the most renowned men in history. What an amazing story! All of us our going to sin, and make wrong choices. But we have forgiveness and hope in Jesus! We know that he will always take us back, even when we've wronged Him, if we have a repentant heart. This coming year, make an effort to think about what kind of choices you make in your everyday lives. Think about how they affect other people. Try to change the way you make decisions. Ask yourself what God would do. Don't just read this and not apply it to your life. Do something different. :)

Love in Christ,
Jessica

Fast

Sometimes I find it hard to really get quiet and learn from the Lord. I think this is due mostly to our busy lives and all the technology. God tells us to, "Be still and know that I am God." (Psalm 46:10) Everyone needs to take some time to be alone and meditate on God's word, but it isn't easy. This week we are taking a break from the computer to do just that. I encourage you to do the same. Your relationship with God should be of the utmost importance, and this week is a great time to think of that. Commit to spending the time you usually would on the computer (or any other technology you think it would be fitting to "fast" from) with Christ. Have a very merry Christmas as you focus on the love the Father poured out on us when He sent His Son.

Love in Christ,
Jessica and Becky :)

Snow

This morning I woke up to a fresh layer of snow over everything outside of my window. It was beautiful! Snow is like a symbol of our dirty hearts washed clean. When I look at snow, it reminds me that Jesus took my filthy rotten heart, and turned it into something beautiful and pure that reflected His Son.

Psalm 51:7 (NLT)
Purify me from my sins, and I will be clean;
wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.

The next time you see a fresh layer of snow, thank God that He cleaned your heart, and made it as white as snow.

Love in Christ,
•♫♥ Jessica

Forgiveness

Hey Everyone,

I'm sorry I haven't posted in a really long time,but I haven't been on the computer much and I've had a difficult month.

Lately, I've been struggling with forgiveness. I've had two people deeply hurt me this month, and it's been really hard to forgive them.
What does God think about forgiveness? Does he think it's ok to say, "What they did was unforgivable...I'm sure God will understand."
No, in fact he says to forgive our neighbor not only 7 times, but 77 times 7 times. He forgave us of the biggest sin imaginable...I think we can do enough to forgive the people who hurt us. Not only does he say this,but he also says that he will forgive us with the same measure forgiveness we use on our enemies. Wow. That's a pretty harsh consequence.
So have I completely put aside what these two people did to me? No. Not exactly. In fact, it makes me tear up when I talk about it. However, I walk around saying, "I forgive these people and what they did to me." That's really not easy for me. Honestly, when they hurt me I just wanted to curl up and cry for eternity.

Last Sunday, one of our pastors talked about forgiveness. Her story was about when they were trying to adopt a little girl from Mexico. They have three boys, and she really wanted a little girl. They got a lawyer named Antonio(who lives in Mexico) to help them out. Everything was going well, and they went down to Mexico because their litle girl had been born. Unfortunately, this lawyer had been lying to them and pulling money from them when there was no little girl being born. This was heartbreaking to this family, and it was extremely hard to forgive this man. However, it took awhile for my pastor to forgive what happened. Once she did, it was like God released a peace on her. Anyways, I just wanted to let y'all know how important it is to me to forgive people. Please pray for me that I will officially forgive and forget these people who I still feel I shouldn't forgive.
Thanks,
~Madison

Sovereign Lord

Psalm 71:5
For you have been my hope, O Sovereign LORD,
my confidence since my youth.

Psalm 140:7
O Sovereign LORD, my strong deliverer,
who shields my head in the day of battle-

We serve a God who is sovereign. He has control and power, He is just, all-knowing. He created us with a free will so that we can have a choice whether or not we wanted to serve Him. Some people could say that isn't fair, that we should all just go to heaven. But God created us to love us; He wanted to have fellowship with us. If we weren't made with the ability to choose, then it would be like God was friends with a robot. With someone who has to love Him; who didn't choose to love Him. It would be like someone getting paid to be your friend. Thank God today that He is Sovereign, and thank Him for your free will!


Your Sister in Christ,
♫♥• Jessica

Distractions

We have so many distractions in life today. I'm sure you've tried to talk to someone who was doing something else- on the computer, watching TV, writing- they give you some attention, but they completely miss what you say.
With everything else vying for our attention (especially electronics) where does God fit in? As always, the Lord is the picture of a perfect friend. Do you really appreciate it when your friends are constantly asking you to spend time with them, when they interrupt you day after day to get your attention? Probably not. However, friends often catch things we miss...aren't you glad when a friend notices you haven't talked in awhile and they let you know you need to get back together? Or what about when you are really busy and don't set aside time to spend with them, but they send you a little gift or note of encouragement? Christ is just like that friend. He sends gifts every single day: Sunrises, flowers, birds chirping, an encouraging verse during your quite time, a kind word from a friend. Also like that good friend, He won't constantly push you. However, if you begin to fall a way from Him, He will let you know, no matter how much it takes. Today ask yourself about the things you are going through. Maybe the beautiful snow is a gift from Him. The struggle going on in your family? Jesus is just begging you to return to Him and find comfort.

Love in Christ,
Becky :)

♥♥♥ Your True Love ♥♥♥

I think we would all agree that we want to fit in, to not be the weird kid that sits by herself. We want people to like us but we don't want to stoop to the low standards of the "cool" people. I can think of one particularly prominent thing the world qualifies you have to have in order to "fit in." A boyfriend. If you don't have one... then something is wrong with you. If I tell someone I don't have a boyfriend they think I'm crazy. So what does God say about that? As Christian girls striving to live for Jesus, how are we supposed to stand up under all this pressure??? It's really hard, isn't it?

♥ Your first Love
The person you need put above all else, the One who's love you could never deserve, He wants you to love Him back. Jesus has to be your first love. In order to prepare yourself for whoever God wants you to marry, you absolutely have to be in God's Word. No if's and's or but's. I am completely serious when I say that the biggest priority in your life has to be God. Everyday you need to figure out a time that's good for you: evenings, mornings, after lunch, whenever, and read your Bible. Spend time with God.

♥Falling in Love
Okay I know, now your thinking I really am crazy; falling in love with God. That just sounds kind of weird. But it's true. God created us for Him. He made us with the ability to choose and function because He loves you and wants to have fellowship with you. He had this perfect plan for our life, we would walk and talk with Him, just like Adam and Eve did in the garden of Eden. Our sin messed everything up. I can't help but think about how stupid we are to sin. We could have had this amazing life, and we decided to give it all up so we could indulge in sin? Anyways, that's not my point. ;) (lol) my point is that even though we screwed up everything, God still loves us, and we wants us to fall in love with Him. I can come home from summer camp, and be on fire for God! I will be encouraged and really love God. But after awhile I seem to lose that energy. Instead of continuing my close relationship with Jesus, I go right back to where I was before. When I really think about it, I don't know why all of us aren't out there changing the world. Why are we living these normal, pointless lives when so many people are in the world that don't know Jesus! What a waste! When we are truely and deeply in love with Jesus, people will see that in you. When we fall in love with Jesus we will make a difference. Your relationship with Jesus can't be something you put off. He can't be the kind of friend you talk to once a year when you send out your Christmas cards. You can't just lean on Him when the going gets tough. In order to fall in love with God, you have to continue the connection.

♥ Staying in Love
Get an accountability partner! When you are super close to God and doing things for the furthering of His Kingdom, Satan is going to be trying to attack you, to bring you down. Don't let him succeed! Surround yourself with people who are staying on the right track, who want to be as close to Jesus as you do! When Satan comes knocking on your door tempting you to fall away, you let Jesus take care if it. Example: *knock knock knock* Hey Jess, it's me, your buddy Bob. (aka Satan :P) I was wondering, do you think we could do something tonight? *Jessica sits doing her Bible study* Jessica replies: Jesus, there's someone at the door. It's for you!!!! *end of example* Stay on track, keep your focus. You don't need to have a boyfriend in order to fit in. You are already in love! You don't have time to take care of two guys (right now :). Y'all can do it! Fall in love with Jesus today.

Your Sister in Christ,
♫♥ Jessica

Btw, if y'all read that whole thing, I'm very proud of you! It was kind of long. :P

Revelation 4:7-11 (New International Version)

In the center, around the throne, were four living creatures, and they were covered with eyes, in front and in back. ⁷The first living creature was like a lion, the second was like an ox, the third had a face like a man, the fourth was like a flying eagle. ⁸Each of the four living creatures had six wings and was covered with eyes all around, even under his wings. Day and night they never stop saying: "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come." ⁹Whenever the living creatures give glory, honor and thanks to him who sits on the throne and who lives for ever and ever, ¹⁰the twenty-four elders fall down before him who sits on the throne, and worship him who lives for ever and ever. They lay their crowns before the throne and say:
¹¹"You are worthy, our Lord and God,
to receive glory and honor and power,
for you created all things,
and by your will they were created
and have their being."

EVERYTHING is about God. The singular goal of your life should be to glorify Him alone. He is the only one who was, is, and is to come. Praise Him!

In Christ,

Becky :)

Philippians 4:8

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

The books you read, the movies you watch, the people you hang out with, those are all things that influence your life. You are going to act like the people you spend the most time with. You will think about the things you read and watch. So are they pure? Is it admirable? We have to be very careful about what we let in, what we let our influence us. Satan can so easily get a foothold in our life and get us thinking about the wrong kind of things. Don't let that happen! Let Jesus take over, and strive to think about things that would please Him. :)

Your Sister in Christ,
Jessica ♫♥

Call on the Lord

~Acts 2:22-47
22"Men of Israel, listen to this: Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through him, as you yourselves know. 23This man was handed over to you by God's set purpose and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men,[d] put him to death by nailing him to the cross. 24But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him. 25David said about him:
" 'I saw the Lord always before me.
Because he is at my right hand,
I will not be shaken.
26Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices;
my body also will live in hope,
27because you will not abandon me to the grave,
nor will you let your Holy One see decay.
28You have made known to me the paths of life;
you will fill me with joy in your presence.'[e]

29"Brothers, I can tell you confidently that the patriarch David died and was buried, and his tomb is here to this day. 30But he was a prophet and knew that God had promised him on oath that he would place one of his descendants on his throne. 31Seeing what was ahead, he spoke of the resurrection of the Christ,[f] that he was not abandoned to the grave, nor did his body see decay. 32God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of the fact. 33Exalted to the right hand of God, he has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear. 34For David did not ascend to heaven, and yet he said,
" 'The Lord said to my Lord:
"Sit at my right hand
35until I make your enemies
a footstool for your feet." '[g]

36"Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ."

37When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, "Brothers, what shall we do?"

38Peter replied, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call."

40With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, "Save yourselves from this corrupt generation." 41Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.
The Fellowship of the Believers
42They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. 44All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. 46Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.


I know that is a lot to read, but very important. It is the gospel message. It seems to me like sometimes we over-analyze the gospel, turning it in to steps that we must do and actions we must perform, thus it becomes a head matter instead of an all important heart matter. Don't get me wrong: the acronyms and all other things that have been made up are great. They really show you what you need to do, but in the end it boils down to belief in Christ and repentance of your sins. It is almost so easy it becomes difficult!

I love the verse right before this passage:
~Acts 2:21
And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.

Call on the name of the Lord and He will lovingly show you what you must do. Turn to Him first.

In Christ,
Becky :)

Pure and blameless

Who may ascend the hill of the LORD? Who may stand in his holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to an idol or swear by what is false. He will receive blessing from the LORD and vindication from God his Savior. Such is the generation of those who seek him, who seek your face, O God of Jacob. Psalm 24:3-6

To get to heaven, we have to have a pure heart; sinless, clean, and without blemish. But you all know that we don't have a pure heart! Romans 3:23 says, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." Jesus died on the cross and carried our burdens, our sins and gave us a clean heart to replace all the trash. We have received vindication from God! You only have to do one thing: accept the gift. I see so many people that refuse that amazing opportunity to have a pure heart. We have have a job to do. Like the video Becky posted yesterday said, along with you faith you have to have works. Our job right now is to be a witness to people. "Such is the generation of those who seek Him." I want to be apart of a generation that is changed, that is different. Our opportunity to learn and grow in our faith is now.

But eagerly desire the greater gifts. I Corinthians 12:31

Eagerly desire what God has for you. He wants so badly for us to live for Him, and to make a difference. Don't shy away from that call.

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31

Our lives should be a reflection of God. People should see Jesus in you! Let everything you do, whether it is making dinner, or watching TV, let it all be for God's glory.

Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. -Psalm 51:10

Make that your prayer today. Ask God to create in you a pure and blameless heart.

Your Sister in Christ,
♫♥ Jessica

Movie Monday

Is your equation missing something? I think there is sometimes a tendency to fall into the trap for some of us in which you think you have a good Christian family and do good things and believe in God... so you think you have salvation; but do you have faith? And if you do, how does your fruit measure up? Think this over.

In Christ,
Becky :)

Treat others the way you want to be treated

So many times I think we get caught up with judging people. Lately I have found myself judging others, and putting myself above them. I'll think, "ugh they are so immature... obnoxious, I can't stand them!" But seriously, I'm the one at fault! I'm putting myself above others. So I decided to see what God had to say about that.

¹You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge the other, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things. ²Now we know that God's judgment against those who do such things is based on truth. ³So when you, a mere man, pass judgment on them and yet do the same things, do you think you will escape God's judgment? ⁴Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, tolerance and patience, not realizing that God's kindness leads you toward repentance? Romans 2:1-4

I don't have any excuse to be acting the way I am! God Almighty is the one who has power to judge the world. That is definitely not my place. I'm just this lowly sinner, who is no better then the next person.

So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets. Matthew 7:12

Next time I start to put myself above another person, I'm going to remember what Jesus did for me. How He sacrificed Himself for me. I'm going to start treating others the way I want to be treated.

Your Sister in Christ,
Jessica ♫♥

The Comparison Game

Do you ever find yourself caught up in the comparison game? Peter fell into it too:

John 21:20-23

²⁰Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. (This was the one who had leaned back against Jesus at the supper and had said, "Lord, who is going to betray you?") ²¹When Peter saw him, he asked, "Lord, what about him?"

²²Jesus answered, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me." ²³Because of this, the rumor spread among the brothers that this disciple would not die. But Jesus did not say that he would not die; he only said, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you?"

Everyone gets caught up in comparing themselves to someone else at sometime. It's easy to say that we need to stop and start measuring ourselves against God, but that isn't the easy thing to do. How can we focus less on others and more on Christ? Well, coming off what Jessica said yesterday...

How often do we make a concerted effort to spend some time with God, where we can give Him all of our attention?... Don't you think you could spend some of that time with your heavenly Father? God wants us to abide in Him as often as possible. He wants us to give Him our undivided attention.

When we spend time with God, He takes our mind off other things. We leave thinking more about Him and how to further His kingdom, and less on superficial outward things like clothes, hair, and popularity. Spend sometime with Christ today and ask Him to give you a heart that loves others and focuses on how to bless them.

I guess you could call this post "Time With God- Part 2" :)

Have a great day in the Lord!
Becky :)

Time with God

Luke 5:16
¹⁶But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.

Jesus would often take valuable time out of His day, to go spend some time with God.

How often do we make a concerted effort to spend some time with God, where we can give Him all of our attention? When we aren't distracted by the music coming from the radio, or your little sister screaming at the top of her lungs for no good reason (trust me, I know from experience :P). Think about all the time you spend watching TV, or getting on the computer. Don't you think you could spend some of that time with your heavenly Father? God wants us to abide in Him as often as possible. He wants us to give Him our undivided attention. Make an effort to spend more time with the person that gives you breath, that allows you to live. The guy that loves you beyond your wildest imaginations! Take time to listen and learn from God this week.

1 Corinthians 1:25
²⁵For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man's strength.

God is all powerful, Almighty, and all-knowing. His foolishness is so much wiser than our wisdom! We can learn so much just my listening and spending time with Him!

Your Sister in Christ,
Jessica ♫♥

Hi girls! I just wanted to share a few quick verses with you.

John 2:23-25

Now while he was in Jerusalem at the Passover Feast, many people saw the miraculous signs he was doing and believed in his name. But Jesus would not entrust himself to them, for he knew all men. He did not need man's testimony about man, for he knew what was in a man.

People saw who Jesus was through the things He did, and they would have testified to that and told others; but Jesus did not allow Himself to bask in that, because He knew that men were easily swayed. Instead, He placed His worth in what His Father said about Him, "And a voice from heaven said, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased." (Mathew3:17)
Focus not on what others are saying about you, but what the Lord is saying. Just one more of the endless lessons Jesus Christ can teach us!

Love in Christ,
Becky :)

Fruits of the Spirit

Galations 5:22-26

²²But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, ²³gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. ²⁴Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. ²⁵Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. ²⁶Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

The fruit of your old nature, your flesh nature, is sin. As it says in verse 24, we have crucified our sinful nature. So as believers we should have a fruits of the Spirit, godly fruits. We should all at least have joy. Always. I'm not saying that you have to be "happy" all the time. That just doesn't happen! But you should always be joyful. If you can't think of anything that makes you joyful, how about your salvation? You will never lose your salvation, and Jesus will always be with you. That's definitely something to be joyful about. Matthew 7:16-20 says this:

¹⁶By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? ¹⁷Likewise every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. ¹⁸A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. ¹⁹Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. ²⁰Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.

Do people recognize you by your fruit? They should. They should see something different from you. If you still have your sinful nature, because you aren't saved, then the fruit you will see from your life is not going to be very good. You aren't going to pick "grapes from a thornbush." You should be able to recognize a believer by their character. Their actions, their fruit. Take a look at your life right now. Are you seeing beneficial fruit coming from you? If you aren't seeing very much, try hard to work on that! Make it a priority to change that. Strive to be more like Jesus. He is the best example you have out there. But now your thinking, "how are you supposed to role model Jesus? I mean you don't really get to actually "see" Him everyday, all the time." You have to be reading your Bible, studying and searching for what God is trying to teach you. Only then will you begin to notice some "fruits of the Spirit" coming from your life.
Have a great day!

In His Love,
Jessica ♫♥

Movie Monday

Just be yourself!

~1 Peter 3:3-4
³Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. ⁴Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight.

Names and Attributes of God

Attributes are the very character of God. The Bible tells us He is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. He is unchanging so we can trust who He is.

The names of God are found in the Bible. They sometimes give us a word picture of who God is. They also reveal God’s character.

- God is Omnipotent. All-powerful. God has power without limit. Nothing is more powerful than God. (Jer. 32:17-18, 26-27)

- God is Omniscient. All-knowing. God knows everything that can be known. His knowledge includes every possible thing that exists, has ever existed, or will ever exist. (Psalm 139: 1-6)

- God is Omnipresent. God is everywhere - close to everything, next to everyone. (Psalm 139: 7-12)

- God is Sovereign. God is in control of our lives. His sovereignty is the attribute by which He rules His entire creation. To be sovereign, God must be all-knowing and all-powerful. (I Chronicles 29: 11-13)

- God is Holy. Jesus lived a perfect life without sin. This is why he could be a perfect sacrifice for our sins. (II Cor. 5:21) (Rev. 4:8)

- God is Merciful. He forgives our sin. (Psalm 103: 11-13)

- God is Just. (II Thessalonians 1:5-6)

- God is Faithful. Our hope for the future rests upon God’s faithfulness. (Psalm 89: 1-8)

- God is our Comforter. (II Cor. 1:3-4)

- God is our Counselor. (Prov. 8:14)

- God is our Father. (Romans 8:14 -17)

- God is the Alpha and Omega (the beginning and the end). (Rev.1:8)

- God is our Creator. (John 1:3)

- God is Truth. (John 14:6)

- God is our Protector. (Isaiah: 43:1-2)

- God is our Help. (Psalm 118: 5-6; Isaiah 41:10)

- God is our Strength. (II Cor. 12:9)

- God is our Help in Temptation. (Psalm 119:9,11)

- God is our Rock. (Psalm 26:4, Psalm 40:2; 61:2)

- God is the Door. (John 10:9)

- God is our Hope. (Psalm 62:5, Rom. 15:13)

- God is the King of Kings. (I Timothy 6:15)

- God is the Light of the World. (John 8:12)

- God is our Peace. (Ephesians 2:14)

- God is our Intercessor. (Hebrews 7:25; 2:17)

- God is Mighty. (Isaiah. 9:6)

- God is our Savior. (Luke 2:11)

- God is our Redeemer. (Ephesians 1:7)

There are many, many more attributes and names of God as you search scripture. Write down the new ones you find. God will open His word up to you.

Your sister in Christ,

♥♫•Madison

The prevailing plans are... not mine.

I'm a huge planner. I plan everything. I could probably give you an outline of how I want my life to work out- what kind of house I want live in, where I want to work, what I want the guy I marry to look like. Everyone has thought about their future to some extent.
You could have your whole life going for you, when something completely unexpected happens. You think, "God, why would you let this happen? I had it all planned out..." Except we totally forget one vitally important thing- it wasn't God's plan.

Proverbs 19:21
Many are the plans in a man's heart,
but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails.

Sometimes I forget the fact that I'm human, and my plans really aren't all that spectacular compared to God's. I think that my way, my plan, is better then the one God's made uniquely for me. This past year I have really grown up in the Lord. I realized that I was following the path I wanted to take. I was still reading my Bible, but I was twisting up God's plan for my life, and in the end, I got hurt. I really want to encourage you girls to examine your hearts. Make sure that you are listening to God, that you aren't going your own way. God's purpose prevails, the Lord's plan is always the right way in the end.

Your Sister in Christ,
Jessica ♫♥

Happy Thanksgiving

The other day as I was helping my mom unload groceries I noticed how full our pantry really was! We have way more food than we need, and that's the way it is with most people. I am so thankful to the Lord for that! Maybe you don't know where your next meal is coming from, or have an overabundance of food. You can still be thankful in this, though! If you live in the United States, be thankful for the freedom you have to worship the Lord and other things, such as homeschooling. If you don't live in the United States, be thankful that you can still read this and have freedom of religion. If you don't have freedom of religion, thank God that you are not being persecuted and He has protected you, or that somehow you got to read this safely.
Do you have a nice house? Maybe not new, or big, but nice? Are you safe? Warm? I read somewhere that, based on percentages, if the world were a village of 100 people, only 10 would live in standard housing!
I hope you can see that whatever your circumstances, you have many things to thank the Lord for this Thanksgiving, and every day! Have a Blessed day!

In Christ,
Becky :)

I read this today on the Daily Bide website. I thought it was a great reminder of the kind of sacrifice Jesus made for us!
Take time today to thank God for making the ultimate sacrifice.

GREAT DEALS!!!...um...for a few

Today's Story

Black Friday 2009 Doorbuster Deals: The Dirty Secrets

Black Friday 2009 will be tougher than ever on both retailers and shoppers. The retailers need to make certain that they get the shoppers in their stores. Those great deals that we talk about are called doorbuster deals, and are not what they seem.

CNN Money has been looking into this and thought they would offer us an insight. We have to make certain that we read the small print on these doorbuster deals; this will normally be at the bottom of the circular. These products are usually limited to just two per store, so the odds of you getting that so called bargain are not in your favor.

CNN Money has been looking at a recent Black Friday circular, and some of their HDTVs were limited to just five per store. It is deals like this that causes chaos, as shoppers feel like they have been cheated. Some retailer experts agree with the shoppers and say that they have every right to feel cheated.

Customer Growth Partners retail expert, Craig Johnson has said, “It’s a sleazy practice.” He feels that an advertiser should not advertise something if they know they cannot fulfill the needs of the customers. He said it is stupid to hype a product on what is one of the busiest shopping days of the year.

We know that this upsets shoppers and this is the sole cause of many arguments in stores on Black Friday, as they fight to be able to get that elusive deal before anyone else.

(To read this story by Peter Chubb, go to www.product-reviews.net/2009/11/20)

God's Story

Hebrews 10:8-13

When Jesus said, "You don't want sacrifices and offerings," He was referring to practices according to the old plan. When He added, "I'm here to do it your (God's) way," he set aside the first in order to enact the new plan — God's way — by which we are made fit for God by the once-for-all sacrifice of Jesus.

Every priest goes to work at the altar each day, offers the same old sacrifices year in, year out, and never makes a dent in the sin problem. As a priest, Christ made a single sacrifice for sins, and that was it! Then he sat down right beside God and waited for his enemies to cave in. It was a perfect sacrifice by a perfect person to perfect some very imperfect people. By that single offering, he did everything that needed to be done for everyone who takes part in the purifying process.

What does God's Story teach us about the best "deal" of all times?

There I was...4:30am the day after Thanksgiving last year...freezing in the cold while standing in line...why? Because I could get a portable basketball hoop for nearly a third of its normal price!

Normally I would have been sound asleep. I had always laughed about people who were crazy enough to actually go shopping at such an insane time of day. But this deal made it worth it to venture out for my first time ever braving the early morning crowds.

When the doors opened there was a mad rush. People knew exactly what they were looking for and dashed straight for their respective treasures. I, on the other hand, casually walked to where the basketball hoops were and began inspecting each box to make sure I had the right model. As I did this, I noticed people placing a hand on certain boxes as they staked their claim to the one they were touching. In a split second I realized that I, in my hesitation, could possibly miss out on what I came for...I could have gotten up super early, stood in a long line and frozen half to death...all for nothing!

Quickly I searched for and found one of the 7 basketball hoops they had available as advertised. I placed my hand on it and, with great relief, claimed it for my own. Those who came after me were simply out of luck. The deal was limited. Only a few got to benefit. Just a small number of us received the gift that we really wanted.

Today's scripture teaches us that this is not the case with the best "deal" ever offered to man. Complete forgiveness for all of our sins...completely free...sounds like a deal that is just too good to be true. The truth is, however, that it is true...and not only that, it is an offer that never runs out! It is good to everyone who believes in Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of their sins.

My Story

Connecting today's story and God's Story with my story

• What is the best deal you have ever gotten? Maybe it was a sale item or perhaps it was a used car that you picked up for way below what it was worth. Sometimes we are just fortunate enough to be in the right place at the right time and land a great deal. Still...no matter how good a deal may be...nothing compares to what Jesus offered us when He laid down His life for our sins. Talk to Him about how you feel about what He did for you.
• Scripture teaches us that, unlike Black Friday deals, there is no fine print on Jesus' offer. It is free. It is once-for-all. It is offered to everyone who will believe in Him. Not only that...Jesus won't "run out" of forgiveness. We all mess up and it is important to know that His offer is still good...4am, 4pm, any part of the day, every day.

Their Story

Connecting today's story, God's story and my story with my friend's story

• Ask a friend about the best deal they have ever gotten. Perhaps it will start a discussion that will lead you to have the opportunity to share about the best offer you have ever received...a relationship with Christ!
• If you venture out early this Friday, you may have the chance to spend a long time next to a perfect stranger while waiting in line. Ask them what they are "looking for" and see where the Holy Spirit takes that conversation!

Mature and complete... well... maybe

James 1:2-4
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.

Everyone endures trials in life. Whether they are big or small. But how do you handle them? God says that we should consider it pure joy to face a trial. How do you react to a hardship in life? You can wallow in self-pity, and think that everything is just horrible for you. You can become bitter, and harden your heart. OR, you can become stronger. Now wait.. how do you become stronger through something bad? how do you have joy when things totally aren't working out? Satan will test you, to see how strong your faith is. He wants to see how far he can push you before you give up on God, before you give up on your faith. It's going to happen. But through these trials, God can bring good.

Romans 8:28
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Trials make you rely on God, to really trust Him that is it going to be okay. Sometimes God allows trials because you are falling away from Him. You should come out of it a better person, a more mature Christian. But honestly, most Christians do exactly what Satan wants them to. They buckle under the pressure. You know how I know this? Because our world would be a much different place if everyone who claims that they are a Christian, would mature and grow in their relationship with Jesus when trials come along. You have to be in God's word! It will grow you up in Christ, and it will make you strong against those little trials. Every time you are in God's word, you should come away a different person. You should have become a little more like Jesus. If you aren't seeing fruit from your relationship with God, then you need to examine yourself. Make sure you are striving to do honor and obey God with everything to you do!

1 Corinthians 3:10b-15
But each one should be careful how he builds. ¹¹For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. ¹²If any man builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, ¹³his work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each man's work. ¹⁴If what he has built survives, he will receive his reward. ¹⁵If it is burned up, he will suffer loss; he himself will be saved, but only as one escaping through the flames.

Build up upon your foundation. Become more like Jesus, live out your faith. Those are the things that will stand up against those flames. When trials come about, don't give up! Become "mature and complete" and "not lacking anything."

In His Love,
Jessica ♫♥

"Regrets"

God's Love

Have you ever thought about how much God loves us?

³⁸For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, ³⁹neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
-Romans 8:38-39

There are 4 different types of meaning for the word love in the Bible. The word that talks about God's love is agape. God has an agape love for us. But what exactly is that? The definition of agape love is this: divine, unconditional, self-sacrificing, active, volitional, and thoughtful; selfless love of one person for another.

God's love is unconditional. As a believer, once we have been saved, nothing we can do can take our salvation from us! If you aren't saved, Jesus still has a agape love for you! However, you don't have the eternal life that comes with that love. If you have questions about how to become a Christian please feel free to email us!

You have heard that it was said, 'Love (agape) your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love (agape) your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that 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. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? —Matthew 5:42-44

God tells us that we need to love others with an unconditional love too! That is so difficult. But we have to best example of how we are to love others! Jesus shows us that love by dieing on the cross for us. Take time today to thank God for His self-sacrificing love for you. And work on having a self-sacrificing love for others. It's not going to come automatically, it won't be easy (trust me) but in the end, it will most definitely be worthwhile.

In His Love,
Jessica ♫♥

The future is brighter... uh yeah.

Personally, I love Christmas music... as long as it is after Thanksgiving! Seriously, though, now is way to early; and then what happens the day after Christmas? Christmas music stops! Why are we all so eager to move on and get to the future? When we're in middle school we want to be in high school, when you get your learner's permit you want your driver's license, the list goes on. Contentment isn't a word in most people's dictionary's today (including me!).

^{~Philippians 4:11-12}

¹¹I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. ¹²I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.

Paul was in prison when he wrote this! Wow! I'm pretty sure I wouldn't be able to say that! Many people are content with what they have, but not where they are. Change, move, grow, improve; they're goals for a lot of people, but what if God has you right where he wants you? (He does!) However, we should look ahead to the kingdom of God. In fact, more than that. It should be all we think about! The basis for all that we do!

~Philippians 3:13-16; 20-21

¹³Brothers, 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, ¹⁴I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. ¹⁵All of us who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. ¹⁶Only let us live up to what we have already attained.

²⁰But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, ²¹who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.

Let go of the past. Leave it behind. Life in Christ is something new and completely different, the Lord will supply what you need for it! Don't turn around and backtrack in your relationship with Him. Live up to what you have and build on it.
One thing my pastor loves to do on Sunday mornings is give us something to say and/or do during the week to remind us of the sermon. So here ya go:
Put your right hand in the air, snap and point to the right. Say, "Move ON!" :)

Love in Christ,
Becky :)

How would YOU like it?

How would you like to be the God of you? Would you think, Yeah, I'm proud of her? Or would you be like, I watched my Son get tortured and slaughter for her? Would you think, She's not even trying. She's wasting my time! Or would you be so proud because of all the time you spent hanging out together? Would you, as God, look down at you and think, She gets it. My Son died for her, and it was worth it. What would it be like if you were the God of you?

(quote from Susie Magazine written by Justin Lookadoo)

I see so many people that just waste their life. They totally and completely miss it, they treat God like He's a nobody, like He didn't DIE for them. They don't even care! We have this amazing opportunity as a young adult to focus completely on God.

1 Corinthians 7:34b says this: An unmarried woman or virgin is concerned about the Lord's affairs: Her aim is to be devoted to the Lord in both body and spirit. But a married woman is concerned about the affairs of this world—how she can please her husband.

As unmarried (of course :]) girls we can completely focus on God. We don't have a husband, children, or many responsibilities. Right now is your time to do something for God. To make a difference.

Will you be the girl that wastes her time valuing the fleeting and trivial things of this world? Or will you be different and set apart. As a child of God, doing the right thing will be difficult. God doesn't promise us an easy life. You are going to be persecuted to some extent for your faith. Whether it be getting made fun of, or being a martyr for Christ. Can you withstand the temptation to crumble? You have to make a decision right now to stand up for God no matter what the circumstances. Jesus gave His life for you, He loves you SO much. Beyond anything any of us can understand.

In His Love,
Jessica ♫♥

Where is your heart?

~Ecclesiastes 5:1-7

¹ Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. Go near to listen rather than to offer the sacrifice of fools, who do not know that they do wrong.

² Do not be quick with your mouth,
do not be hasty in your heart
to utter anything before God.
God is in heaven
and you are on earth,
so let your words be few.

³ As a dream comes when there are many cares,
so the speech of a fool when there are many words.

⁴ When you make a vow to God, do not delay in fulfilling it. He has no pleasure in fools; fulfill your vow. ⁵ It is better not to vow than to make a vow and not fulfill it. ⁶ Do not let your mouth lead you into sin. And do not protest to the temple messenger, "My vow was a mistake." Why should God be angry at what you say and destroy the work of your hands? ⁷ Much dreaming and many words are meaningless. Therefore stand in awe of God.

Have you ever thought of guarding your steps when you go to the house of God? Usually we don't, but that is so important. God doesn't want us to just come to meet with Him, wherever that may be, and be there half-way. You know what else happens when we don't truly focus on God? It leads to more sin...

~James 4:17
¹⁷Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins.

When we read our Bibles or do Bible study because it is a duty, we hear the word, so then (obviously) we know what it says; but when we are halfhearted and not focused, we forget to do it. So we... 1. know the word and good; 2. don't do it!

Look back at verse 2 of Ecclesiastes 5.
Sometimes I think I can say whatever I want to God because He already knows what I am thinking. However, we need to remember who we are (no one) and who God is (GOD!) Sure, God knows what is in your heart, but watch what you consciously say to him.

I pray today that you would really make time for the Lord to come into your heart and speak to you, instead of just going through the motions.

In Christ Alone,
Becky :)

P.S.- I can't speak for Madison or Jessica, but I would like some feedback on my writing... constructive criticism. Tell me what you think about my writing- not posts in general (save that for comments.) Please say whatever you want, with two guidelines: 1. Make it private (a PM or email) and 2. Make it constructive, meaning you say what is good as well as bad, but also how to improve. Thanks!

Hey, Jessica here! I agree with Becky, I would love some feedback as well. :)

On the inside

Galatians 6:3,4 (NIV)

If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else.

1 Peter 3:3-4 (NIV)

Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight.

Zephaniah 3:17 (NIV)

The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.

I have a hard time comparing myself with others. You always see someone that is prettier, more popular, more confident...the list goes on. But the thing is, God doesn't look at things the same way we do. We take value in things that God doesn't care about at all. Why do we do it? Why does it matter so much. Honestly, I really don't know. I don't know why our world puts all these expectations on us, and we aren't worth anything if you don't live up to them. I mean, yes I know that we are sinful and we desire things of the flesh. But why it is of such great importance, I don't really understand. But I do know that God takes great worth in what is inside. He wants you to care about it too. Man looks at the body, but God looks at the heart.

I encourage you girls to look deep inside your heart. Figure out where you are in your spiritual walk. Set high goals so that you can grow in Christ. Maybe you will never be the prettiest girl out there, but you sure will be a beautiful sight to Jesus!

In His Love,

Jessica ♫♥

Seeking God

Matthew 6:33

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.

What does it mean to actually seek God. I was thinking about that today and so I decided I would look up the definition for the word seek.

Seek-

1. To try to locate or discover; search for.
2. To endeavor to obtain or reach
   
3. To go to or toward
4. To inquire for; request
5. To try; endeavor

Do we really seek God. I mean yeah, you can say that you love God and want to do the right thing, but do you seek Him?
I find it very hard to look to God for everything, to let him into every area of my life, to let Him be in charge. But it's something we have to do. You have to decide to let Him be Lord of your life. By seeking Him, you are seeking His will, God's will is "pleasing and perfect." (Romans 12:2)
He knows exactly how you are going to live your life, what you are going to do, who you will meet. Let God be completely in control, because He knows what is best. (Jeremiah 29:11)
I encourage all of you to be reading your Bibles, to be seeking God! Tell us where you are in your spiritual life. If you have questions on a certain topic or need some encouragement, feel free to email us. :) It really encourages us to see you girls grow in the Lord and to glean something from our posts. I pray that God will touch your heart and that your relationship will God will flourish because of this blog.

" ' "The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace." ' -Numbers 6:24-26

In His Love,
Jessica ♫♥

How often do you really get quiet and listen to God? (More than once)before I have been on the internet or phone or watching TV or something, really just wasting my time, not talking to anyone and feeling like I have no friends. Of course, I know this isn't true. I have friends, they just aren't available to talk the same time I am. Once in awhile during these times I will think, "Maybe I should go read my Bible..." but then I think no... I just really want to do something; and then I get so mad at myself! I should long to spend time with God. All relationships are kind of tough, because you have to start putting work into them to get to where you want to be, and even more so with God, because with Him you can always go farther. However, when you think you've got this "Christian thing" down good the devil really attacks you. It is now when you have to focus even more on Christ and spending time with Him. Remember that either we move nearer to Him or farther away- He never moves. ( James 4:8 )

In Christ Alone,
Becky :)

Light

1 Corinthians 4:6-7

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.

⁷But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.

We have our treasure, our light- the Holy Spirit- in our jars of clay (our bodies). We can understand the Bible. We need to be little lights out in the darkness. But does it ever get frustrating to you that people just blatantly refuse God? It's hard to believe that they would do that, because there is so much evidence that He is true, that His word is true. So why do they do that?

2 Corinthians 4:3-4

And 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.

The god of this age, which is Satan, has blinded people minds so that they cannot see the truth. So how can you get saved if you are blinded?

FAITH.

You won't be able to understand God's Word unless you have faith. That's why you have to put your faith in Christ to be saved. Then you can understand and acknowledge all the "awesomeness" of God. :)

It may get frustrating, if you are praying for someone to get saved, and they just aren't there yet. Sometimes you just want to give up. I have felt that way before, but that's not what we need to be doing. We need to keep praying for then and continue to show the love of Christ. As believers, we have a special treasure inside of us. Don't let is go to waste. The Holy Spirit can use you as a tool to bring someone closer to God. You can't save someone on your own, but you can show then that there is hope, and that life is different with Jesus! Be a little light out there in the darkness. Stay connected with other believers, and with the guy that gives you your light- God.

In His Love,

Jessica ♫♥

~Philippians 4:7
And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

I read this last night and I noticed that it says the peace will guard your hearts. Have you ever thought that peace would be a guard? The Bible actually has a lot to say about peace...

~Psalm 119:165
Great peace have they who love your law,
and nothing can make them stumble.

~Proverbs 14:30
A heart at peace gives life to the body,
but envy rots the bones.

~Luke 2:14
Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.

~John 16:33
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.

~1 Corinthians 14:33
For God is not a God of disorder but of peace.
As in all the congregations of the saints,

~Ephesians 2:14-18
For he himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by abolishing in his flesh the law with its commandments and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new man out of the two, thus making peace, and in this one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.

~Colossians 3:15
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.

~2 Thessalonians 3:16
Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.

This may be a little redundant, but Christ grants us peace. This peace guards our hearts, as well as transcending all human understanding. Through the peace given us we can stand firm through all trials and temptations. What do you have to do to get the peace? Spend time with Christ, make it a daily habit, even if you only read a verse or two. The peace Jesus gives you will be astounding!

In Christ Alone,
Becky :)

The grass looks greener... over there?

"It's okay if you go bankrupt, it gives you a brand new start!" That's what I heard on the radio today. What? I mean seriously, come on, total oxymoron! How can going bankrupt be good for you. It can't. But the world will try to make anything look good. The grass always looks greener on the other side- the worldly side. The world makes sex before marriage look okay, because then you know if they are really a "suitable" partner. It makes alcohol look good, I mean come on why not have a little fun every once and awhile? Have a couple drinks, kill a few thousand brain cells, no worries. What does it all add up to? Does it really make you feel better?

Of course not!

God's way is always the best way. I know you girls probably hear that all the time, but think about it. We have many different decisions we can make. You just have to decide which one is the right one. You can choose to dress modestly, and keep your temple holy. Or you can choose to dress immodestly and attract the wrong kind of guy who doesn't really love you for who you are.

You can think about which way is easier...but it that really right?
It is always going to be easier to dress immodestly, it will always be easier to listen to the wrong kind of music, it will always be easier to fit in and gossip with all the other girls. Ok, yeah so that's probably not the way to go. Because God never tells us that life as a believer will be easy. In fact, He says that we will endure persecution as a believer.

12Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. 13But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. 14If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. 1 Peter 4:12-14

We have to "walk according to the law of the Lord." (Psalm 119:1)

How do we keep oursleves pure? How to do withstand all the dirty stuff in the world? God has the answer, it's right inside His word. It's like He new that we would need help with this. Psalm 119:9-11 says:

9 How can a young man keep his way pure?
By living according to your word.

10 I seek you with all my heart;
do not let me stray from your commands.

11 I have hidden your word in my heart
that I might not sin against you.


So do just what those verses say. Seek God with all of your heart. Live according to the word! I can promise you, the grass is always greener on God's side. :)

In His Love,
Jessica ♫♥

Proof

Tell us what proof of God you see today!

~Luke 6:45
The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.

People always say, "What goes up, must come down." It's the same with your mind. "What goes in, must come out." That's why Paul says...

~Philippians 4:8
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

Nikki (Comatose) gave me permission to share some things from a post on her blog:

I really feel convicted about my standards when it comes to books, movies, TV, and music. Whenever there's something, even a little thing, in a book or whatever that I know is NOT something God would like it sticks out painfully and that's the only thing I remember when I think of it. And I know that once I let myself like a certain book or movie I REALLY like it. So should I read this series, or not?

I know you're probably thinking, "Duh! Not!" Well actually you're probably not thinking that; forgive me if that's the case. :P But that's what I'm thinking. I remember my youth pastor saying, "Don't settle for anything but God's best." I really want to do that, but it's so hard in this world where almost everything I like has things in it that I KNOW God frowns out. Princess Leia's practically naked in Episode 6 of Star Wars. But the movies are still a good example of good and evil, right? Star Trek is fun... Except for all this cursing, misusing God's name, murdering, fornication, and sometimes partial nudity.

How can I like something so much when it has so many bad things in it? It's like every book, every movie, every TV show has just the one little thing... I try to ignore them, I really can't. All those little things pile up until the bad, worldly, ungodly, and sometimes demonic things completely outweigh the "good." Which still isn't good, because only GOD is good, and there's none of God in THERE.

Ugh. Living on this grimy filthy world is hard. It seems like to draw the line and cut out all these things that contain just the "harmless" evil aspects God hates would leave me with Veggie Tales and LotR. But I don't thing that's REALLY the thing that bugs me. I don't mind not allowing myself access to these things even though it's sad. It's the fact that all these movies with little bad things in it are the things we watch as a family every night.

Wait a minuet. Did I hear that right? Because something totally just clicked. All these "little" bad things in these movies we love; we watch these almost EVERY NIGHT. We're just LETTING Satan come into our lives without a second thought. Maybe that's why I haven't been wanting to read my Bible. Maybe that's why my siblings constantly fight like cats and dogs without end (or at least part of the reason). And thinking about that makes me mad. How much you wanna bet that Satan and his evil little demon minions are just so pleased with themselves that we're allowing all that evil in our lives? They're probably thrilled that these things that we hold so dear to our hearts are leaving less and less room for God. And God will not be second in our lives.

Well I've made up my mind. I'm raising the bar when it comes to the standard on entertainment I choose. I want to honestly think, "Is this something Jesus would watch?" Would he rather watch Star Trek, or Veggie Tales? I can see it now: "So Lord, do you want to watch Search for Spock, or Little Joe?" I think he'd go with #2. In fact I wish I could go through and just GET RID OF all these movie/TV JUNK that's in our house. No wonder I'm not crazy passionate for God anymore. I'm just sitting here munching away on worldly trash instead of being hungry for God. And I want that to change. I don't want to be lukewarm. And, even though this will be hard, I think I'm going to take a break from the TV. Nothing I watch is really any good anyway. When my family is watching stuff I don't want to see, I'm going to go to my room, put some worship music on, read my Bible and spend time with God. At the very least go somewhere were I can't hear it. So I'm writing this so that whoever reads this can hold me accountable for it.

Thanks so much Nik! That was just what I wanted to get across.

I don't know about you, but one thing that I struggle with is the radio. Sometimes I just want some more upbeat music like Relient K or Switchfoot, but they aren't on the Christian radio here and I get tired of listening to the same CDs... So there is an amazing radio station that totally fixes this problem! I'm not sure you've heard about it before, but it's Air 1. Check it out!

In Christ Alone,
Becky :)

Tim Hawkins

Remember to laugh today!
Your sister in Christ,
♥♫•Madison

Do you ever "dust yourself off" right before you go to church? During the week you let all that sin, all that dust, build up and then when Sunday rolls around you have to be good. So many times I hear people say something and then be like, "oh wait, I'm at church, I can't say that." Or something like that. Obviously if it's "not ok" to do or say at church, it is wrong to do anywhere else! Sometimes when I am dusting something I can wipe it off over and over again and I will get most of the dust off, but not all of it. It's the same way with sin. You can try to wipe it off, but some of it will remain. Whatever is in your heart, deep down, you can't hide it. It will be apart of what you are. Don't dabble in sin at all! Fill your heart with what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable. (Philippians 4:8) Hide God's word in your heart. What is inside, will come out.

I have hidden your word in my heart
that I might not sin against you.
Psalm 119:11

I have a friend that went to homecoming this year and the next day she came to church and everyone was asking her why she didn't wear her dress to church. Her response was that she did not think it was "appropriate." When I saw pictures of her dress later I knew why. It was a really low v-neck dress. She thought it was okay to wear to homecoming but not okay to wear at church. Well the truth of the matter is it wasn't appropriate to wear at all! You can't be this halfway christian, like Becky was talking about in her last post. You have to be consistent with everything. With your speech, your actions, your modesty, it all matters. So I challenge you to look at your life, and see how consistent you are. If you are consistent with reading your Bible, that's a good thing! But if you are consistent about gossiping, try to fix that, and be more consistent about not gossiping. Have a great day!

In Christ,
Jessica ♫♥