Teaching Girls Contentment-for Married Christian Women
The apostle Paul tells us in Philippians 4:11 that he learned to be content. This tells me that contentment is not something innate, and while most of us realize this, particularly if we are parents, I wonder if we take into account all of the circumstances where contentment should be taught. I want my girls to have a Biblical worldview, and when they are adults, this is going to look very different from many of their peers, particularly if they are married. God says in Titus 2:5 that a wife should be discreet, a keeper at home, chaste, and obedient to her own husband. This is in direct contrast to a wife working in my opinion, not that there aren't situations where the best way for a wife to help her husband is by working, but I believe that is the exception rather than the rule.
What if a husband can't provide all that his wife wants? Should she step outside of God's design and plan in order to help make more money for the family? It is hard to fulfill all a wife is supposed to if she is diverted with working. For this reason, I think we parent's need to work on teaching our daughters to follow their husband's lead, praying for God to provide what is needed through him, while also being capable people in case they are called upon to work. The years to train our children and bond with them, training them as they walk by the way, are so fleeting. It is a blessing that God instructs us to be keepers at home; He knows the constant care of a mother is best for children. I hope my girls will trust the Lord enough to work within the structure He has designed so the decisions and wants they have will be easily verified from the Word of God.
The ends do not justify the means, Mothers! If your heart is tied to your home, meaning your husband and children, your children will identify with home, and as they grow that will translate more and more into your particular values. I want my kids to realize serving the Lord through the family He gives them will never have them come up lacking, and that whatever their husband can provide is all they should want. In having an attitude like that, he will grow in confidence as a leader and provider more and more, which will incidentally, bless her. In contrast, stepping outside God's design carries so much regret and dreams that don't get realized. We ladies can cut off our noses in spite of our faces.
In other words, we reap what we sow. A lady who doesn't need a man to take care of her, will never have a man take care of her.
What if a husband can't provide all that his wife wants? Should she step outside of God's design and plan in order to help make more money for the family? It is hard to fulfill all a wife is supposed to if she is diverted with working. For this reason, I think we parent's need to work on teaching our daughters to follow their husband's lead, praying for God to provide what is needed through him, while also being capable people in case they are called upon to work. The years to train our children and bond with them, training them as they walk by the way, are so fleeting. It is a blessing that God instructs us to be keepers at home; He knows the constant care of a mother is best for children. I hope my girls will trust the Lord enough to work within the structure He has designed so the decisions and wants they have will be easily verified from the Word of God.
The ends do not justify the means, Mothers! If your heart is tied to your home, meaning your husband and children, your children will identify with home, and as they grow that will translate more and more into your particular values. I want my kids to realize serving the Lord through the family He gives them will never have them come up lacking, and that whatever their husband can provide is all they should want. In having an attitude like that, he will grow in confidence as a leader and provider more and more, which will incidentally, bless her. In contrast, stepping outside God's design carries so much regret and dreams that don't get realized. We ladies can cut off our noses in spite of our faces.
In other words, we reap what we sow. A lady who doesn't need a man to take care of her, will never have a man take care of her.
Old Dogs
They might be blind and require you to yell for them to hear you, but try to sneak a pill into a cheese they don't like, and forget it. Once they know there is a pill inside, all meat is suspect and while you walk away thinking "Victory!", you come back to find a bitten-into pill with the contents having leaked out. Our dog is old, but he is so smart still. "Hide the pill" can become quite a feat. As I write, there is probably one left in a bowl that had been filled with tons of yummy treats intended to hide it.
Overview of What the Bible Says about the Antichrist
As Christians, we are responsible for understanding the signs of the times. One of the best ways to know how close we are to the Tribulation hour is to track how ready the world is for the rise of the Antichrist. Here is a quick overview of what the Bible says about the Antichrist:
Daniel 11:36-43: He will magnify himself above God.
Daniel 8:23-25: He will be a problem solver.
Revelation 6:2: Everyone will think he wants peace.
Revelation 13:2: Satan is behind the Antichrist's power.
Revelation 13:5: He will have great political power.
Daniel 9:24-27: He will make a seven-year pact with Israel.
Revelation 13:7: He will wage war against the saints.
Revelation 13:8: He will be worshiped by all.
Revelation 13:16-17: He will require all to receive a mark.
Revelation 17:11-17: The Antichrist will betray the apostate church.
Revelation 19:19: The Antichrist will fight against Christ.
Daniel 11:36-43: He will magnify himself above God.
Daniel 8:23-25: He will be a problem solver.
Revelation 6:2: Everyone will think he wants peace.
Revelation 13:2: Satan is behind the Antichrist's power.
Revelation 13:5: He will have great political power.
Daniel 9:24-27: He will make a seven-year pact with Israel.
Revelation 13:7: He will wage war against the saints.
Revelation 13:8: He will be worshiped by all.
Revelation 13:16-17: He will require all to receive a mark.
Revelation 17:11-17: The Antichrist will betray the apostate church.
Revelation 19:19: The Antichrist will fight against Christ.
Keeping the White Fence Post, White
There is a powerful movement going on in Christendom, and the world-over really, where the fence posts darken without care, but the people are very active and busy, doing 'good works'. It is a challenge to do the mundane that we're called to, year after year, effectively. It is particularly hard when bombarded with books that glamorize living against-the-grain.... If one isn't careful, it can cause a body to pull away from God's clear calling in life, convinced they are being 'sold out' for Jesus.
Faith Undone by Roger Oakland is such a worthwhile read for those getting slowly sucked in to this cause-celeb driven world where the mundane is chastised in lieu of the "radical".
If you are a Christian wife, God makes it clear the first priority in life is to serve the husband He's given you to. If there are children, then serving them, raising them in the nurture and admonition of the Lord is next. How that child is educated comes hugely in to play here, particularly because of Luke 6:40. We can think we're doing more of the Lord's work by working all sorts of hours, abdicating our responsibilities at home, even donating all of the money we're making to good causes, but in the end I fear we will see that the ends don't justify the means. If God is truly in something, He will bring it about without our compromising His ultimate standards. Unfortunately in today's world of Rob Bell and the like, Mom's are leaving the hard, consistent work of keeping a home and raising their children as they ought. It feels so much more sacrificial to do something else, something sexy, but is that the right thing?
There are vast immature believers, even leaders, in today's seeker-friendly, social-gospel churches. Don't be one of them--go to the classical authors and listen to sound doctrine. Don't ignore what God plainly says is your job, according to Scripture. Beware of those that espouse lifestyles that act radically, but that do not focus on sound doctrine. The revolution is keeping the white fence post white, and in these dark days, we need more people willing to do that. It is EASY to leave dishes, laundry, child-rearing, home education and serving a husband in order to end sex-trafficking or storm unhealthy orphanages...but who is modeling God's primary vehicle for sharing who He is (the family)? Don't be fooled. Keep your white fence post white, love your children enough to do the hardest, most noble thing--get God's approval, not man's (who is always dazzled by the next self-sacrificing person). There isn't glamour or accolades for staying home and raising a family by mankind; doesn't that in itself make you give it a second thought?
Proverbs 14:12
There is a way which seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death.
Faith Undone by Roger Oakland is such a worthwhile read for those getting slowly sucked in to this cause-celeb driven world where the mundane is chastised in lieu of the "radical".
If you are a Christian wife, God makes it clear the first priority in life is to serve the husband He's given you to. If there are children, then serving them, raising them in the nurture and admonition of the Lord is next. How that child is educated comes hugely in to play here, particularly because of Luke 6:40. We can think we're doing more of the Lord's work by working all sorts of hours, abdicating our responsibilities at home, even donating all of the money we're making to good causes, but in the end I fear we will see that the ends don't justify the means. If God is truly in something, He will bring it about without our compromising His ultimate standards. Unfortunately in today's world of Rob Bell and the like, Mom's are leaving the hard, consistent work of keeping a home and raising their children as they ought. It feels so much more sacrificial to do something else, something sexy, but is that the right thing?
There are vast immature believers, even leaders, in today's seeker-friendly, social-gospel churches. Don't be one of them--go to the classical authors and listen to sound doctrine. Don't ignore what God plainly says is your job, according to Scripture. Beware of those that espouse lifestyles that act radically, but that do not focus on sound doctrine. The revolution is keeping the white fence post white, and in these dark days, we need more people willing to do that. It is EASY to leave dishes, laundry, child-rearing, home education and serving a husband in order to end sex-trafficking or storm unhealthy orphanages...but who is modeling God's primary vehicle for sharing who He is (the family)? Don't be fooled. Keep your white fence post white, love your children enough to do the hardest, most noble thing--get God's approval, not man's (who is always dazzled by the next self-sacrificing person). There isn't glamour or accolades for staying home and raising a family by mankind; doesn't that in itself make you give it a second thought?
Proverbs 14:12
There is a way which seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death.
given over to a depraved mind
My husband and I sometimes discuss what is going on in the world...I gravitate toward the Revelation of John and tend to view all things in light of the trumpet I'm waiting to hear. He is also waiting and watching, but looks at what is going on in the USA as our being under judgement, which is a separate issue from the Great Tribulation. I don't know if my thinking is born out of an arrogance which holds that if America is 'over', then clearly Christ is coming for His church, or is it the fact the rest of the world is a mess and since we've been the final frontier, it must mean the time has come for the Rapture. The thing is, there is no shortage of people linking everything that happens to the coming false prophet and anti-Christ, but sometimes those links are massaged to fit an ideology or hope. Being logical and impatient with sensationalism, my husband feels the cause of Christians is harmed by such matters. I believe he is right, but I need to cling to my hope daily that He is coming--perhaps today, particularly when I see all that is going on in the world. As Ephesians 4 and Romans 1 say (my husband directed me there), we in America have gotten what we want. We don't want God, or His righteousness, or any kind of morality that infringes on our personal wants. History does repeat itself--other great nations have fallen because of the sort of self-indulgent behaviors we display in America.
So here we are, Nov 2012, and I want Jesus to come for His own soon--but I also want the USA to be what it once was. Only one of those is going to happen though...so my focus stays where it needs to stay. Trusting God, looking for my Savior, listening for the trumpet. Meanwhile, as in the days of Noah, there are scoffers and will continue to be.
So here we are, Nov 2012, and I want Jesus to come for His own soon--but I also want the USA to be what it once was. Only one of those is going to happen though...so my focus stays where it needs to stay. Trusting God, looking for my Savior, listening for the trumpet. Meanwhile, as in the days of Noah, there are scoffers and will continue to be.
Encouragement For Believers
We are going to need these verses and the power of God more than ever in the days to come. Come, Lord Jesus, come. Even now~we are waiting and watching.
Ephesians 6:10-20
The Armor of God
10Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. 11Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. 14Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, 15and having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE; 16in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17And take THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
18With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints, 19and pray on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in the opening of my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, 20for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in proclaiming it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.
Ephesians 6:10-20
The Armor of God
10Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. 11Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. 14Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, 15and having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE; 16in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17And take THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
18With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints, 19and pray on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in the opening of my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, 20for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in proclaiming it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.
How the Drink Ends Up Taking You
"I puffed down smokes for 15 years," Monica Bullock says, "and I loved every single one of them."
At 17, she started because of her "cool" new stepsister, and her pack of Marlboro's. Experimentation turned to habit, leading to clove cigarettes and marijuana. "I don't blame anyone but me," she says.
Fifteen years later, after raising a son and battling serious lung infections, she quit—many times:
"I gave it up, about 50 times. I tried gum, but that didn't work. I hated all that chewing. The patches were OK until I started wearing patches and smoking. Eventually, I sought prayer and encouragement from a local religious group. I began counting my victories differently too. Instead of 'just quitting,' I quit for an hour, then two, then six—then a whole day.
"Small victories became larger ones until, one day, I realized I hadn't smoked in days. I won't lie and say that I don't think about it occasionally, but I sure don't crave them anymore. I quit smoking and so can you. Count the small victories."
http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/lookout/quitting-former-smokers-discovered-non-traditional-advice-014027017.html
---------------
When I say "drink", I'm referring to anything that you can get addicted to. The above is from this story, it's worth passing on to those who want to be in control, or have God in control, of their lives. We are so easily fooled into thinking we are the boss, but the Bible says it's either God or Satan (sin). I hope you'll get on God's side before it is too late.
At 17, she started because of her "cool" new stepsister, and her pack of Marlboro's. Experimentation turned to habit, leading to clove cigarettes and marijuana. "I don't blame anyone but me," she says.
Fifteen years later, after raising a son and battling serious lung infections, she quit—many times:
"I gave it up, about 50 times. I tried gum, but that didn't work. I hated all that chewing. The patches were OK until I started wearing patches and smoking. Eventually, I sought prayer and encouragement from a local religious group. I began counting my victories differently too. Instead of 'just quitting,' I quit for an hour, then two, then six—then a whole day.
"Small victories became larger ones until, one day, I realized I hadn't smoked in days. I won't lie and say that I don't think about it occasionally, but I sure don't crave them anymore. I quit smoking and so can you. Count the small victories."
http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/lookout/quitting-former-smokers-discovered-non-traditional-advice-014027017.html
---------------
When I say "drink", I'm referring to anything that you can get addicted to. The above is from this story, it's worth passing on to those who want to be in control, or have God in control, of their lives. We are so easily fooled into thinking we are the boss, but the Bible says it's either God or Satan (sin). I hope you'll get on God's side before it is too late.
Why Homeschool?
God tells us in Luke chapter 6, verse 40, that, "A pupil is not above his teacher; but everyone, after he is fully trained, will be like his teacher." Who is the teacher in public schools? Is it a curriculum that honors and glorifies God, or is it one that points to the individual as the supreme being? Are the teachers heterosexual Creationists, or is their sexual orientation varied as well as how they believe the world came in to existence? What of fellow students--is what they are exposed to at home going to negatively influence your Christian child? Is a child able to defend his faith while the cement of his character is still hardening?
A further question-if 9 children are outside in dirty t-shirts, what are the odds your child, who is wearing a white t-shirt, is going to come in with a dirty shirt? What are the odds the 9 kids will dirty shirts will come in with white shirts as a result of your child going out to play with them?
There are many resources available to help parents successfully home educate their children. In my area there is a co-op on Monday afternoons that covers core and extra-curricular activities, a co-op on Thursday mornings for students of all ages, classes on Tue/Thur for middle/high school aged students, and then there is a program (Classical Conversations) that provides instruction one morning a week for K-6, or alternately for older kids, all the work they will do for the week is given once per week. Along with that one-day instruction, there is the classroom time to allow peer influence and that feeling of competition some students thrive on.
The bottom line is that there is no magic. We can't put our kids into the ungodly public education system, where government is god, and expect them to hold on to the faith we're trying to instill in them. It works out to one or two days at church, plus five in the public school setting where the onslaught of worldview-shaping information is against God. Even students who seem to be Christian after going through the public school system will likely take on beliefs that are contrary to Scripture. There is simply no way to not end up with more of the world in us when we rub elbows with it day in and day out.
A further question-if 9 children are outside in dirty t-shirts, what are the odds your child, who is wearing a white t-shirt, is going to come in with a dirty shirt? What are the odds the 9 kids will dirty shirts will come in with white shirts as a result of your child going out to play with them?
There are many resources available to help parents successfully home educate their children. In my area there is a co-op on Monday afternoons that covers core and extra-curricular activities, a co-op on Thursday mornings for students of all ages, classes on Tue/Thur for middle/high school aged students, and then there is a program (Classical Conversations) that provides instruction one morning a week for K-6, or alternately for older kids, all the work they will do for the week is given once per week. Along with that one-day instruction, there is the classroom time to allow peer influence and that feeling of competition some students thrive on.
The bottom line is that there is no magic. We can't put our kids into the ungodly public education system, where government is god, and expect them to hold on to the faith we're trying to instill in them. It works out to one or two days at church, plus five in the public school setting where the onslaught of worldview-shaping information is against God. Even students who seem to be Christian after going through the public school system will likely take on beliefs that are contrary to Scripture. There is simply no way to not end up with more of the world in us when we rub elbows with it day in and day out.
Weekend Away-Encouragement Before I Go
I'm leaving the computer for a few days, taking a weekend off :). I hope you all have a delightful weekend and will perhaps find some measure of entertainment if you scroll through the posts here LOL!
Deuteronomy 31:6 Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.”
Isaiah 41:10 fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Zephaniah 3:17 The LORD your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.
1 Corinthians 10:13 No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
2 Corinthians 4:16-18 So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.
Deuteronomy 31:8 It is the LORD who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.”
Psalm 9:9 The LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O LORD, have not forsaken those who seek you.
Psalm 23:4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
Psalm 55:22 Cast your burden on the LORD, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.
Matthew 11:28-29 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.
John 16:33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
Romans 8:6 For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.
Philippians 4:6-7 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Colossians 3:15 And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.
God bless
Deuteronomy 31:6 Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.”
Isaiah 41:10 fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Zephaniah 3:17 The LORD your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.
1 Corinthians 10:13 No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
2 Corinthians 4:16-18 So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.
Comfort And Encouragement Bible Verses
Deuteronomy 31:8 It is the LORD who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.”
Psalm 9:9 The LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O LORD, have not forsaken those who seek you.
Psalm 23:4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
Psalm 55:22 Cast your burden on the LORD, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.
Matthew 11:28-29 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
Peace Scripture Quotes For Encouragement
John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.
John 16:33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
Romans 8:6 For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.
Philippians 4:6-7 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Colossians 3:15 And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.
God bless
Owner Fires Workers Because Obama Won
People can scoff at this, but what all the people who don't care about the rule of law, how to preserve a culture, life for EVERYONE, and God's standard of marriage--which, incidentally, holds up a culture, is that this nation is on the fast track DOWN. There is going to be continued moral decay. All of the Latinos that think this land is better and so they come illegally (obviously, not the legal ones) are ignorant of the fact the system that has made this nation great is going to collapse, and already is collapsing. Liberals are so short-sighted. They cut off their nose despite their face, and while the foolish voters who put Obama back in office don't realize this, he and his handlers know this all too well. The phrase 'going to hell in a handbasket' applies to the USA and we have ignorant liberal fools to thank for it. I don't even care about arguing the point though. They can tell me I'm stupid and wrong, we'll all see. It doesn't matter what I say, the proof will be in the pudding; it already is for those who want to see the truth.
http://lasvegas.cbslocal.com/2012/11/07/vegas-employer-obama-won-so-i-fired-22-employees/ (link does not go directly to article as it used to)
http://lasvegas.cbslocal.com/2012/11/07/vegas-employer-obama-won-so-i-fired-22-employees/ (link does not go directly to article as it used to)
God Leads Us Along-Hymn
This is such a wonderful hymn, full of encouragement and inspiration.
We all go through different seasons of life. The chorus speaks to
this issue and I think it is a lovely reminder to be merciful with
those who have gone a path that may be harder, as well as a good
reminder to those going through a trial that others are, or have, too.
We shouldn't feel alone, but we also shouldn't have a twisted pride that
our suffering outweighs someone else's.
1. In shady, green pastures, so rich and so sweet,
God leads His dear children along;
Where the water's cool flow bathes the weary one's feet,
God leads His dear children along.
2. Sometimes on the mount where the sun shines so bright,
God leads His dear children along;
Sometimes in the valley, in darkest of night,
God leads His dear children along.
3. Though sorrows befall us and Satan oppose,
God leads His dear children along;
Through grace we can conquer, defeat all our foes,
God leads His dear children along.
4. Away from the mire, and away from the clay,
God leads His dear children along;
Away up in glory, eternity's day,
God leads His dear children along.
Chorus:
Some through the waters, some through the flood,
Some through the fire, but all through the blood;
Some through great sorrow, but God gives a song,
In the night season and all the day long.
Lyrics: George A. Young
Music: George A. Young
For The First Time After Losing an Election
I can honestly say my blood pressure did not change while watching the final election results come in. Four years ago, while in prayer and having been fasting, I saw God turn His back on America when Obama was elected. And could I be surprised? We left God long ago, and now we are under judgment. I've had no faith in politics, the heart of this nation is corrupt and willfully wicked, and no band-aid of getting some wanted political leader will change anything. We've made our bed and soon we will sleep in it. Let's look at the facts.
I want Christ to return. I'm ready. This nation has turned it's back and we used our influence and power to corrupt and defame righteousness. We are like Sodom and Gomorrah and before long, people will see the power of God Almighty. He is the only King and intercessor. Jesus Christ is coming back, pay attention to the truth of His word.
- Same-sex relationships, one of the things that led to the fall of Rome, are rampant. Note: this is against God's law
- Fornication is rampant and God says those who practice such things will not inherit His kingdom. A heart attitude that openly and actively rejects what God has said is one that is not tied to Him, yet those who claim to be His practice this, forgoing marriage.
- We kill the unborn, made in God's image.
- We kill the partially born, made in God's image. There are those who want to be able to kill up through the first year of life in case any defects show up during that time.
- People want to legalize homosexual relationships with children. This is beyond the pale, but it is a sick reality with some homosexual men in particular.
- We are justifying splitting Israel. Beware! God warned about this and in this so-called advanced age, we turn our backs and want to make nice with the Middle East terrorist oppressors by embracing something called "Palestine".
I want Christ to return. I'm ready. This nation has turned it's back and we used our influence and power to corrupt and defame righteousness. We are like Sodom and Gomorrah and before long, people will see the power of God Almighty. He is the only King and intercessor. Jesus Christ is coming back, pay attention to the truth of His word.
Getting Organized--Again
I just wanted to share a testimony in case anyone who is homeschooling more than one child is feeling like the days are chaotic, less productive than desired, and more random than ordered. For the last few years I have made up an Excel sheet with the hours of the day and days of the week as the axis'. Each block of time had exactly what each of my kids was doing. This way I could see that I had time with each one and that there was time for chores and other extras.
This year I just did one general spreadsheet showing what people should get accomplished each day. Since I didn't break down each specific task per child for each specific day of the week (this year's chart had their names on one axis and times on the other), days where we had ministry, or lessons, didn't go exactly how they looked. Add to this that each child's chores weren't clearly outlined, so that meant I was coming up with the chores each day, at random, and would often interrupt what they were doing if I wrongly assumed they weren't doing anything important. Doing such a loose schedule also meant they were coming to me with questions continually, one child in particular was always upset feeling there was no time to play, and the time I was supposed to spend with each one often got pushed aside.
Over the weekend I finally took the time I should have taken in August, and put together a more detailed schedule for two of the children. They have it in a page protector, there are time slots which are asterisked denoting it's a flexible choice with another asterisked spot, the chores are there, and yes! the free time/when the school day is done. This is a relief to me for SO MANY REASONS. Granted, we aren't talking as much during the day :), but I'm also not stressed with tons of questions all day and tons of little decisions. This has been a springboard to really teach the younger ones about prioritizing, staying on track to meet a goal, and moving forward if there is an obstacle.
I am back to feeling my day has an end in sight and like there is more control in the house all around. They are overseeing their responsibilities, the chores to keep the house a haven for us all are being covered without question or surprise, and I am not second-guessing myself about if the work load is too much. It's already helped me solve a problem with the one child never satisfied with the work load. It wasn't just scheduling issue, though that was huge b/c the constant shifting I'm so fond of drove this child up a wall, but it is a heart attitude of simply not wanting to accept this new stage of life and learning with grace.
If you've read this far maybe you are wondering about my oldest and the schedule. She's been working along well this year, keeping her own schedule, but I suspected some work was not getting accomplished as it should have. Therefore she is submitting her own schedule to me, using the two I've already created, to see what gaps there are and what her load of the chores should be and when. Together we will come up with one that works, taking into account when people are online or practicing piano, or having one on one time with me etc. . It's a school project in itself, but owning the material matters this year in a way it didn't last year.
We're all learning!
Anyway, I wanted to share because the difference in how I feel today and yesterday, versus how I was feeling the last couple months, is pretty amazing. It is reminiscent of year's past, only now it's more relaxed because they are learning how to keep up with the pace themselves better than when they were younger. Hope this helps someone. Reaping and sowing ends up impacting so many areas of our lives. I'm sure getting more consistent and organized with school will flow into other areas as well! ♥
God bless
This year I just did one general spreadsheet showing what people should get accomplished each day. Since I didn't break down each specific task per child for each specific day of the week (this year's chart had their names on one axis and times on the other), days where we had ministry, or lessons, didn't go exactly how they looked. Add to this that each child's chores weren't clearly outlined, so that meant I was coming up with the chores each day, at random, and would often interrupt what they were doing if I wrongly assumed they weren't doing anything important. Doing such a loose schedule also meant they were coming to me with questions continually, one child in particular was always upset feeling there was no time to play, and the time I was supposed to spend with each one often got pushed aside.
Over the weekend I finally took the time I should have taken in August, and put together a more detailed schedule for two of the children. They have it in a page protector, there are time slots which are asterisked denoting it's a flexible choice with another asterisked spot, the chores are there, and yes! the free time/when the school day is done. This is a relief to me for SO MANY REASONS. Granted, we aren't talking as much during the day :), but I'm also not stressed with tons of questions all day and tons of little decisions. This has been a springboard to really teach the younger ones about prioritizing, staying on track to meet a goal, and moving forward if there is an obstacle.
I am back to feeling my day has an end in sight and like there is more control in the house all around. They are overseeing their responsibilities, the chores to keep the house a haven for us all are being covered without question or surprise, and I am not second-guessing myself about if the work load is too much. It's already helped me solve a problem with the one child never satisfied with the work load. It wasn't just scheduling issue, though that was huge b/c the constant shifting I'm so fond of drove this child up a wall, but it is a heart attitude of simply not wanting to accept this new stage of life and learning with grace.
If you've read this far maybe you are wondering about my oldest and the schedule. She's been working along well this year, keeping her own schedule, but I suspected some work was not getting accomplished as it should have. Therefore she is submitting her own schedule to me, using the two I've already created, to see what gaps there are and what her load of the chores should be and when. Together we will come up with one that works, taking into account when people are online or practicing piano, or having one on one time with me etc. . It's a school project in itself, but owning the material matters this year in a way it didn't last year.
We're all learning!
Anyway, I wanted to share because the difference in how I feel today and yesterday, versus how I was feeling the last couple months, is pretty amazing. It is reminiscent of year's past, only now it's more relaxed because they are learning how to keep up with the pace themselves better than when they were younger. Hope this helps someone. Reaping and sowing ends up impacting so many areas of our lives. I'm sure getting more consistent and organized with school will flow into other areas as well! ♥
God bless
Rethinking Catholicism
As a Bible believing Christian, I have plenty of reasons for having left the Roman Catholic Church when I was in high school. The Word of God is the final authority on all matters relating to the Creator, and Mary, Jesus' mother, is not any sort of intercessor. The mysticism that surrounds her and the false apparitions are heresy since they conflict with God's Holy Word. The Bible says there is One intercessor between mankind and God, and that is Jesus Christ. Mary does not and cannot intercede, and we are all called saints if we've put our faith in the finished work of Jesus Christ. There are no 'patron' saints that intercede in any way, shape or form to Christ. The Word will tell us if that were the case, and it says just the opposite. As if these things aren't enough to make one really question if the RCC is unbiblical in many of its teachings, this ecumenical move with a full-fledged false religion is abhorrent.
Muslims cannot come together with Christians. Please read Faith Undone by Roger Oakland if you are buying into this Emergent type of belief. It is setting the stage for the one world religion that will reign after the Rapture of the true Church. We do not all believe in the same God. God is not to be confused with other religions high leader. His attributes are not that of Allah or any other false god.
http://www.thelocal.se/32360/20110302/
Muslims cannot come together with Christians. Please read Faith Undone by Roger Oakland if you are buying into this Emergent type of belief. It is setting the stage for the one world religion that will reign after the Rapture of the true Church. We do not all believe in the same God. God is not to be confused with other religions high leader. His attributes are not that of Allah or any other false god.
http://www.thelocal.se/32360/20110302/
Social Services--Like the Devil, in Nevada
http://www.lifenews.com/2012/10/31/court-may-force-mentally-disabled-nevada-woman-to-have-abortion/
You would think a story of a mentally impaired person's pregnancy, potentially ending in forced abortion, would happen anywhere but the United States of America. Read this story to see the facts surrounding yet another measure of pure incompetence.
Come, Lord Jesus, come.
You would think a story of a mentally impaired person's pregnancy, potentially ending in forced abortion, would happen anywhere but the United States of America. Read this story to see the facts surrounding yet another measure of pure incompetence.
Come, Lord Jesus, come.
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