I'll use Bragg Liquid Aminos for a little flavoring and leave out the garlic (since I have to). Probably sprinkle with some nutritional yeast and see how that is...
Chinese Style Bok Choy with Mushroom Sauce - RawTill4 Vegan Oil Free Fat...
I'll use Bragg Liquid Aminos for a little flavoring and leave out the garlic (since I have to). Probably sprinkle with some nutritional yeast and see how that is...
Religious Exemption Under Attack in Virginia
Action Needed: Loudoun County School Board Lurches Left
|
So, Guard Yourselves-- Part II
First Baptist of Wheeling, WV has their sermons online, and close to when they are preached which is really nice. I've recently finished listening to "So, Guard Yourselves" based out of Malachi, and it is worthwhile. Staying faithful is an idea becoming more and more antiquated in our self-focused culture. I hope you'll take the time to listen, especially if you are married or will be one day.
So, Guard Yourselves Part 2
So, Guard Yourselves Part 2
Why Not to Use Homemade Laundry 'Detergent"
The Risks of DIY Laundry 'Detergent'/Soap
I'm not sure what the truth is, but the risk of ruining a washer is something to consider. I do think the post would have been a LOT more powerful had the OP left off her sales pitch for her detergent. It really fell apart there...
I'm not sure what the truth is, but the risk of ruining a washer is something to consider. I do think the post would have been a LOT more powerful had the OP left off her sales pitch for her detergent. It really fell apart there...
So, Guard Yourselves: First Baptist of Wheeling (Link Fixed)
This Nov 4th 2018 sermon does a very good job illustrating the importance of guarding our hearts, particularly in the area of marriage, but application is given to young people dating and relationships within the body of Christ. Please listen to it if you are a believer. You will be blessed to hear this message. Sermons at First Baptist of Wheeling "So, Guard Yourselves" Part 1
Ligonier Ministries, Is the Reformation Over?
From R.C. Sproul, Ligonier Ministries Nov 2, 2018
Is the Reformation Over?
There have been several observations rendered on this
subject by those I would call “erstwhile evangelicals.” One of them wrote,
“Luther was right in the sixteenth century, but the question of justification
is not an issue now.” A second self-confessed evangelical made a comment in a
press conference I attended that “the sixteenth-century Reformation debate over
justification by faith alone was a tempest in a teapot.” Still another noted
European theologian has argued in print that the doctrine of justification by
faith alone is no longer a significant issue in the church. We are faced with a
host of people who are defined as Protestants but who have evidently forgotten
altogether what it is they are protesting.
Contrary to some of these contemporary assessments of the
importance of the doctrine of justification by faith alone, we recall a
different perspective by the sixteenth-century magisterial Reformers. Luther
made his famous comment that the doctrine of justification by faith alone is
the article upon which the church stands or falls. John Calvin added a
different metaphor, saying that justification is the hinge upon which
everything turns. In the twentieth century, J.I. Packer used a metaphor
indicating that justification by faith alone is the “Atlas upon whose shoulder
every other doctrine stands.” Later Packer moved away from that strong metaphor
and retreated to a much weaker one, saying that justification by faith alone is
“the fine print of the gospel.”
The question we have to face in light of these discussions
is, what has changed since the sixteenth century? Well, there is good news and
there is bad news. The good news is that people have become much more civil and
tolerant in theological disputes. We don’t see people being burned at the stake
or tortured on the rack over doctrinal differences. We’ve also seen in the past
years that the Roman communion has remained solidly steadfast on other key
issues of Christian orthodoxy, such as the deity of Christ, His substitutionary
atonement, and the inspiration of the Bible, while many Protestant liberals
have abandoned these particular doctrines wholesale. We also see that Rome has
remained steadfast on critical moral issues such as abortion and ethical
relativism. In the nineteenth century at Vatican Council I, Rome referred to
Protestants as “heretics and schismatics.” In the twentieth century at Vatican
II, Protestants were referred to as “separated brethren.” We see a marked
contrast in the tone of the different councils. The bad news, however, is that
many doctrines that divided orthodox Protestants from Roman Catholics centuries
ago have been declared dogma since the sixteenth century. Virtually all of the
significant Mariology decrees have been declared in the last 150 years. The
doctrine of papal infallibility, though it de facto functioned long before its
formal definition, was nevertheless formally defined and declared de fide
(necessary to believe for salvation) in 1870 at Vatican Council I. We also see
that in recent years the Roman communion has published a new Catholic
catechism, which unequivocally reaffirms the doctrines of the Council of Trent,
including Trent’s definition of the doctrine of justification (and thus affirms
that council’s anathemas against the Reformation doctrine of justification by
faith alone). Along with the reaffirmations of Trent have come a clear
reaffirmation of the Roman doctrine of purgatory, indulgences, and the treasury
of merits.
At a discussion among leading theologians over the issue of
the continued relevance of the doctrine of justification by faith alone,
Michael Horton asked the question: “What is it in the last decades that has
made the first-century gospel unimportant?” The dispute over justification was
not over a technical point of theology that could be consigned to the fringes
of the depository of biblical truth. Nor could it be seen simply as a tempest
in a teapot. This tempest extended far beyond the tiny volume of a single
teacup. The question, “what must I do to be saved?” is still a critical
question for any person who is exposed to the wrath of God.
Even more critical than the question is the answer, because
the answer touches the very heart of gospel truth. In the final analysis, the
Roman Catholic Church affirmed at Trent and continues to affirm now that the
basis by which God will declare a person just or unjust is found in one’s
“inherent righteousness.” If righteousness does not inhere in the person, that
person at worst goes to hell and at best (if any impurities remain in his life)
goes to purgatory for a time that may extend to millions of years. In bold
contrast to that, the biblical and Protestant view of justification is that the
sole grounds of our justification is the righteousness of Christ, which
righteousness is imputed to the believer, so that the moment a person has
authentic faith in Christ, all that is necessary for salvation becomes theirs
by virtue of the imputation of Christ’s righteousness. The fundamental issue is
this: is the basis by which I am justified a righteousness that is my own? Or
is it a righteousness that is, as Luther said, “an alien righteousness,” a
righteousness that is extra nos, apart from us—the righteousness of another,
namely, the righteousness of Christ? From the sixteenth century to the present,
Rome has always taught that justification is based upon faith, on Christ, and
on grace. The difference, however, is that Rome continues to deny that
justification is based on Christ alone, received by faith alone, and given by
grace alone. The difference between these two positions is the difference
between salvation and its opposite. There is no greater issue facing a person
who is alienated from a righteous God.
At the moment the Roman Catholic Church condemned the
biblical doctrine of justification by faith alone, she denied the gospel and
ceased to be a legitimate church, regardless of all the rest of her
affirmations of Christian orthodoxy. To embrace her as an authentic church
while she continues to repudiate the biblical doctrine of salvation is a fatal
attribution. We’re living in a time where theological conflict is considered
politically incorrect, but to declare peace when there is no peace is to betray
the heart and soul of the gospel.
This post was originally published in Tabletalk magazine.
Reformation Day!
It is Reformation Day! Here are some fun ideas to make the day more of a celebration. The clarity of the gospel matters today as much as it did in Luther's day. Lets not miss this opportunity to stand for the truth of the Gospel, which is the only thing that can save souls from eternal damnation.
https://www.intoxicatedonlife.com/reformation-day-party-ideas/
https://www.intoxicatedonlife.com/reformation-day-party-ideas/
Learning About Cholera- Intriguing History
This is incredibly interesting. Part one of three. What do you know of the Cholera outbreak in England? It is a fine example of science at work, and perseverance, as well as other things.... check this out!
May 8, 2018 Sternberg v. Spotsylvania DSS
Google:
Daniela Sternberg v. Spotsylvania County Department of Social Services, 1506172 (Va. Ct. App. 2018)
This was happening as we were actively working to get Juan Antonio reunited with his family last spring, which we all know resulted in nothing, even during National Reunification Month.
How did this woman get so far with Family Solutions only to then have her parental rights terminated? Read for yourself.
(Oct 2019 Juan Antonio was finally reunited permanently with his parents and 8 siblings after nearly 3 yrs of working hard to get him back.)
Daniela Sternberg v. Spotsylvania County Department of Social Services, 1506172 (Va. Ct. App. 2018)
This was happening as we were actively working to get Juan Antonio reunited with his family last spring, which we all know resulted in nothing, even during National Reunification Month.
How did this woman get so far with Family Solutions only to then have her parental rights terminated? Read for yourself.
(Oct 2019 Juan Antonio was finally reunited permanently with his parents and 8 siblings after nearly 3 yrs of working hard to get him back.)
Anger
Few things can cause irreparable damage to relationships like unholy, unchecked anger. Brick by brick the angry tongue imprisons its captive while Satan sits back enjoying the continual burning of bridges and wake of damage, often to the innocent. Unrighteous anger leads to shallow relationships at best and isolation at worst. But there is help if we will yield our will to God in repentance. The Bible has a lot to say about anger and how to deal with those who are our 'enemies'.
As we learn to love ourselves less, we'll love the Savior more, and trust Him with all that happens in our lives. We can learn to be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger--praying and waiting for Him to work on our behalf when we are hurt, disappointed, frustrated we don't have an answer, or are angry. This can help the person regularly dealing with an explosive person as well as the person who often 'flies off the handle'.
Do you have an anger problem? One thing that may suggest you do is if another person has ever commented on how you have wrongly handled your anger. Rest assured, by the time something gets said, it is very likely not the first time this behavior has been seen. Ask yourself about who made the comment to you. What kind of person is it?
I recall in college having a boyfriend tell me he was breaking up with me because of my anger. He was a calm, uncritical sort of guy, so what he said was used immediately to help me see my struggle. As a budding Christian, I wanted to model Christ and knew my actions were not glorifying, which means they were harmful to my testimony. It took time, and I've still not become as good as my husband with returning love for wrongful actions, but the books suggested here were all helpful to me. I hope they, along with wise counsel, will help you.
(All verses are from the NASB)
James 4:1-2 What is the source of quarrels and conflicts among you? Is not the source your pleasures that wage war in your members? You lust and do not have; so you commit murder. You are envious and cannot obtain; so you fight and quarrel. You do not have because you do not ask.
Proverbs 22:24-25 Do not associate with a man given to anger; or go with a hot-tempered man, or you will learn his ways and find a snare for yourself.
Colossians 3:8 But now you also, put them all aside: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and abusive speech from your mouth.
James 1:19-20 This you know, my beloved brethren. But everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger; for the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God.
Ephesians 4:25-27 Therefore, laying aside falsehood, speak truth each one of you with his neighbor, for we are members of one another. Be angry, and yet do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and do not give the devil an opportunity.
Proverbs 29:11 A fool always loses his temper, but a wise man holds it back.
Ecclesiastes 7:9 Do not be eager in your heart to be angry, for anger resides in the bosom of fools.
Proverbs 15:18 A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, but the slow to anger calms a dispute.
Psalm 37:8-9 Cease from anger and forsake wrath; do not fret; it leads only to evildoing. For evildoers will be cut off, but those who wait for the Lord, they will inherit the land.
James 1:19-20 This you know, my beloved brethren. But everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger; for the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God.
Ephesians 4:25-27 Therefore, laying aside falsehood, speak truth each one of you with his neighbor, for we are members of one another. Be angry, and yet do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and do not give the devil an opportunity.
Proverbs 29:11 A fool always loses his temper, but a wise man holds it back.
Ecclesiastes 7:9 Do not be eager in your heart to be angry, for anger resides in the bosom of fools.
Proverbs 15:18 A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, but the slow to anger calms a dispute.
Psalm 37:8-9 Cease from anger and forsake wrath; do not fret; it leads only to evildoing. For evildoers will be cut off, but those who wait for the Lord, they will inherit the land.
James 3:6 And the tongue is a fire, the very world of iniquity; the tongue is set among our members as that which defiles the entire body, and sets on fire the course of our life, and is set on fire by hell.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Help to Get Started, some sermons:
Godly Anger vs. Selfish Anger
Dealing with Problem People
Forgiveness in the Age of Rage
Healing for Hurting Marriages
Video Sermon by Charles Stanley:
How to Handle Anger
Books/brochures to help:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Help to Get Started, some sermons:
Godly Anger vs. Selfish Anger
Dealing with Problem People
Forgiveness in the Age of Rage
Healing for Hurting Marriages
Video Sermon by Charles Stanley:
How to Handle Anger
Books/brochures to help:
Leaving Your Church
This guy's style is a little wack, but what he says is dead on. If you can stick with him, the content will draw you in. Be patient!
The decision to leave your church is a serious one. Proceed slowly and prayerfully. Having done this only once when it didn't involve a move, I can't overemphasize those things enough. It is a dreadfully painful process to have to move on.
When to Not Leave Your Church
Our consumer-driven mindset can't always be trusted, so please err on the side of caution as you proceed.
The decision to leave your church is a serious one. Proceed slowly and prayerfully. Having done this only once when it didn't involve a move, I can't overemphasize those things enough. It is a dreadfully painful process to have to move on.
When to Not Leave Your Church
Our consumer-driven mindset can't always be trusted, so please err on the side of caution as you proceed.
No Excuses
We do what we want to do...ultimately, it is true.
Even if we feel pressured to do something, if we do it, it is because we chose to do it.
What we do reveals who we are.
If it is because we want to do the thing, it says something.
If it is because we don't want to do the thing but do it anyway, it says something else.
We do what we want to do...ultimately, it is true.
What does what you do say about you?
By J Dub
Even if we feel pressured to do something, if we do it, it is because we chose to do it.
What we do reveals who we are.
If it is because we want to do the thing, it says something.
If it is because we don't want to do the thing but do it anyway, it says something else.
We do what we want to do...ultimately, it is true.
What does what you do say about you?
By J Dub
Breast Cancer
My 2nd friend in this area has been diagnosed with breast cancer. This time it is very different as the cancer is extremely aggressive and can't just be managed with a mastectomy. I'm seeing how utterly unique this disease is and how one size does not fit all given the different types and how it acts. This aggressive type is so much harder to deal with.
Ironically, my friend with new cancer has lost her closest friend who also had breast cancer, and my other friend who was diagnosed has also died. Both of these ladies 'beat' their cancer but died for other reasons. It is a sage reminder to me that since God has numbered our days, they really are numbered.
Ironically, my friend with new cancer has lost her closest friend who also had breast cancer, and my other friend who was diagnosed has also died. Both of these ladies 'beat' their cancer but died for other reasons. It is a sage reminder to me that since God has numbered our days, they really are numbered.
Ken Ham's Foundations Series
These are excellent to view if you are a Christian interested in understanding more deeply the importance of a biblical worldview rooted in Scripture.
https://genesissciencenetwork.com/ken-hams-foundations-series/
Some videos can be found on YouTube for free. I highly recommend One Race, One Blood!
https://genesissciencenetwork.com/ken-hams-foundations-series/
Some videos can be found on YouTube for free. I highly recommend One Race, One Blood!
Independent Thinkers
How is it that those who want kids to be independent thinkers get offended when those kids think differently, or act in ways they prefer they not? Assuming we're not talking about sin or something ungodly...
Suffering, Remembering Nero
Nero was persecuting Christians in an attempt to try to validate they had set fire to Rome, though it was he who did it. Dousing their living bodies in oil after tying them to stakes, he had them lit on fire to illuminate the city at night.
Paul encouraged the believers with this:
Paul encouraged the believers with this:
12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you; 13 but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation.
Paul goes on to tell us not to suffer as the lost, as those who do not know Christ, for things like murder, stealing, being evil (and in today's world we should be careful what we call evil and what we don't...causing people to lust is evil, fornication is evil, the way many women respond to their husbands and house holds is evil....yet we try to call whatever we want to do or think, good. We act like our human idea of good IS good, but the Bible tells us that people will call good, evil, and evil, good.)
Paul goes on to tell us not to suffer as the lost, as those who do not know Christ, for things like murder, stealing, being evil (and in today's world we should be careful what we call evil and what we don't...causing people to lust is evil, fornication is evil, the way many women respond to their husbands and house holds is evil....yet we try to call whatever we want to do or think, good. We act like our human idea of good IS good, but the Bible tells us that people will call good, evil, and evil, good.)
14If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. 15Make sure that none of you suffers as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a troublesome meddler; 16but if anyone suffers as a Christian, he is not to be ashamed, but is to glorify God in this name. 17For it is time for judgment to begin with the household of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18AND IF IT IS WITH DIFFICULTY THAT THE RIGHTEOUS IS SAVED, WHAT WILL BECOME OF THE GODLESS MAN AND THE SINNER? 19Therefore, those also who suffer according to the will of God shall entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right.
Why Nighttime Breastfeeding So Important | Natural Parents Network
Why Nighttime Breastfeeding So Important | Natural Parents Network.
Nighttime breastfeeding is critical to successful breastfeeding, yet somehow new moms I encounter or hear about do not seem to know this. The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding by Le Leche League is a good book to read if you plan to nurse; arm yourself with the facts. Better yet, join a breastfeeding group. There is much knowledge and support there. Sure, you may have to deal with someone nursing a child you consider far too old, but hey, she's figured out how to be successful, right?
It is important to understand that the hind milk comes at the end of the nursing time, so emptying the breast is important, particularly at night. Make sure to nurse fully on at least one side with a young infant so they are getting the fattiest milk.
Breast milk runs on a supply and demand, and for the first 8 wks or so, baby should be at the breast every 2-3 hours. At night, I did this will all 3 of my kids until they started to naturally go a longer stretch. I've read it is the night feedings that determine milk production, so not nursing at night is not a good idea! I didn't get my oldest to sleep through the night until she was 6 months, my 2nd until 8 months, and my son didn't sleep through until 12 months. It was well worth it. I nursed all of my kids until they were at least 12 months old, and I was pregnant with number 3 while nursing number 2.
The way our time is divided as parents cannot be equal, God has given us different roles in parenting. Mom can nap during the day when the baby naps, dad cannot, so he should sleep all night while she tends to the children at home and he is at work (not able to nap). I am confused by today's mothers who think the time spent with baby is supposed to be as equal as possible. We women have bought into some idea that leaves our pride in being almost or completely responsible for the day-to-day work of a newborn at the doorstep. It should be a great source of our satisfaction!
There seems to be a very new trend of first time moms breastfeeding but having their husband feed at night with pumped milk or formula. I have only recently met people who have attempted this; when I was having my babies it was unheard of. We called supplementing 'weaning', and I was taught if I pumped milk for feedings that I still needed to express milk when the next feeding should have occurred (during the first several months). There was no sleeping through feedings; aside from the risk of mastitis, the supply was sensitive those first 3 months. In short, breastfeeding that is done in a way that is easy is not going to be successful for the long haul. It must inconvenience mom, that is why it is such a sacrifice!
I can't help but wonder if formula companies perpetuate the idea that dad should help with breastfed babies since nursing will start off well with bottles at night, but in a short time there will be a diminished supply of milk and supplementing with formula will have to happen. Mom will be convinced she just didn't have enough milk. I don't know if my suspicions will ever be proven, but it is really interesting to see the trend.
I hope this helps some new moms succeed because it is heartbreaking, and frustrating, when nursing is going well only to be sabotaged by bottles, whether formula or breast milk. It is also expensive.
In closing, remember that babies get more milk from a bottle since by design they use their tongue to stop the flow of milk, whereas with nursing, baby must use his muscles to draw the milk out. The ease of bottles can really throw off breastfeeding attempts since babies quickly realize the easier way is preferable, so many times they will start to refuse the breast, particularly if a bottle is introduced before 3 to 4 wks of age.
Nighttime breastfeeding is critical to successful breastfeeding, yet somehow new moms I encounter or hear about do not seem to know this. The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding by Le Leche League is a good book to read if you plan to nurse; arm yourself with the facts. Better yet, join a breastfeeding group. There is much knowledge and support there. Sure, you may have to deal with someone nursing a child you consider far too old, but hey, she's figured out how to be successful, right?
It is important to understand that the hind milk comes at the end of the nursing time, so emptying the breast is important, particularly at night. Make sure to nurse fully on at least one side with a young infant so they are getting the fattiest milk.
Breast milk runs on a supply and demand, and for the first 8 wks or so, baby should be at the breast every 2-3 hours. At night, I did this will all 3 of my kids until they started to naturally go a longer stretch. I've read it is the night feedings that determine milk production, so not nursing at night is not a good idea! I didn't get my oldest to sleep through the night until she was 6 months, my 2nd until 8 months, and my son didn't sleep through until 12 months. It was well worth it. I nursed all of my kids until they were at least 12 months old, and I was pregnant with number 3 while nursing number 2.
The way our time is divided as parents cannot be equal, God has given us different roles in parenting. Mom can nap during the day when the baby naps, dad cannot, so he should sleep all night while she tends to the children at home and he is at work (not able to nap). I am confused by today's mothers who think the time spent with baby is supposed to be as equal as possible. We women have bought into some idea that leaves our pride in being almost or completely responsible for the day-to-day work of a newborn at the doorstep. It should be a great source of our satisfaction!
There seems to be a very new trend of first time moms breastfeeding but having their husband feed at night with pumped milk or formula. I have only recently met people who have attempted this; when I was having my babies it was unheard of. We called supplementing 'weaning', and I was taught if I pumped milk for feedings that I still needed to express milk when the next feeding should have occurred (during the first several months). There was no sleeping through feedings; aside from the risk of mastitis, the supply was sensitive those first 3 months. In short, breastfeeding that is done in a way that is easy is not going to be successful for the long haul. It must inconvenience mom, that is why it is such a sacrifice!
I can't help but wonder if formula companies perpetuate the idea that dad should help with breastfed babies since nursing will start off well with bottles at night, but in a short time there will be a diminished supply of milk and supplementing with formula will have to happen. Mom will be convinced she just didn't have enough milk. I don't know if my suspicions will ever be proven, but it is really interesting to see the trend.
I hope this helps some new moms succeed because it is heartbreaking, and frustrating, when nursing is going well only to be sabotaged by bottles, whether formula or breast milk. It is also expensive.
In closing, remember that babies get more milk from a bottle since by design they use their tongue to stop the flow of milk, whereas with nursing, baby must use his muscles to draw the milk out. The ease of bottles can really throw off breastfeeding attempts since babies quickly realize the easier way is preferable, so many times they will start to refuse the breast, particularly if a bottle is introduced before 3 to 4 wks of age.
Who Are Your Closest Friends?
I've heard it said, and you probably have too, that you can tell a lot about someone by who their closest friends are.
I've heard it said that for a Christian, there is reason for concern if their closest friend is not a believer, or is one living outside God's will. This is the issue at hand and which requires a close look.
We usually, or at least often, think of this verse with marriage, but it applies also to business. The late Larry Burkett was clear about not being bound with an unbeliever in business and finance. The Christian should honor God with their money, an unbeliever does not serve that God so knows nothing of this.
Do not be bound together with unbelievers; for what partnership have righteousness and lawlessness, or what fellowship has light with darkness? 2 Cor 6:14
No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth. Matthew 6:24
We cannot serve God and wealth, we also cannot serve God and the world. The world does not know God. We cannot expect them to honor Him or live like those who belong to Him. There is no fellowship with light and darkness.
But He knew their thoughts and said to them, "Any kingdom divided against itself is laid waste; and a house divided against itself falls. Luke 11:17
I've heard it said that for a Christian, there is reason for concern if their closest friend is not a believer, or is one living outside God's will. This is the issue at hand and which requires a close look.
We usually, or at least often, think of this verse with marriage, but it applies also to business. The late Larry Burkett was clear about not being bound with an unbeliever in business and finance. The Christian should honor God with their money, an unbeliever does not serve that God so knows nothing of this.
Do not be bound together with unbelievers; for what partnership have righteousness and lawlessness, or what fellowship has light with darkness? 2 Cor 6:14
No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth. Matthew 6:24
We cannot serve God and wealth, we also cannot serve God and the world. The world does not know God. We cannot expect them to honor Him or live like those who belong to Him. There is no fellowship with light and darkness.
But He knew their thoughts and said to them, "Any kingdom divided against itself is laid waste; and a house divided against itself falls. Luke 11:17
High School Homeschooling
When homeschooling elementary aged kids it makes sense to take off here and there for field trips or fun. It is one of the thrills of homeschooling young kids.
High school level work is not isolated to one day or even one week. I feel this should be said to be unfortunate, but it is just reality. Work loads are heavy and carry over. There are tests, papers, or projects underway or coming up, and missing days of school is so detrimental that the work cannot necessarily be caught up.
If a student is working 9 hours a day, including some additional evening hours and definitely weekend time to stay on top of their work, how many missed days would it take for them to have nearly double that workload? Unless Mom is doing all of the teaching, the work can't be slowed down or stopped temporarily, and too much slowing down or stopping means that school has to go in to summer if programs are being completed in their entirety.
Grades in high school matter greatly, not just for college entry but also scholarships. The discipline and commitment needed to do well builds character as well, particularly when studying subjects that aren't enjoyable to the student. There is a basic knowledge people need to be contributing members of society, so a well-rounded high school education matters. A student's primary job is to do well with school. There are tons of opportunities later for other activities, but while in school during the school year, academics should take priority.
High school level work is not isolated to one day or even one week. I feel this should be said to be unfortunate, but it is just reality. Work loads are heavy and carry over. There are tests, papers, or projects underway or coming up, and missing days of school is so detrimental that the work cannot necessarily be caught up.
If a student is working 9 hours a day, including some additional evening hours and definitely weekend time to stay on top of their work, how many missed days would it take for them to have nearly double that workload? Unless Mom is doing all of the teaching, the work can't be slowed down or stopped temporarily, and too much slowing down or stopping means that school has to go in to summer if programs are being completed in their entirety.
Grades in high school matter greatly, not just for college entry but also scholarships. The discipline and commitment needed to do well builds character as well, particularly when studying subjects that aren't enjoyable to the student. There is a basic knowledge people need to be contributing members of society, so a well-rounded high school education matters. A student's primary job is to do well with school. There are tons of opportunities later for other activities, but while in school during the school year, academics should take priority.
Proverbs 18:17
The first to plead his case seems right, Until another comes and examines him.
Proverbs 18:17
If we all believed this verse, would it cut down on gossip?
If we all believed this verse, would it cut down on gossip?
Self-Control
It doesn't matter what circumstance is put before our children; each one is an opportunity to teach them to react in a way that honors God, and as their parent, it is our responsibility to rise to the occasion and teach them to respond with self-control.
How to Overindulge a Child
To render a child what most would refer to as (or at least think even if they don't verbalize it) a spoiled brat, be sure to give them what they want every time they ask. If you fail to do this every time, do not despair, the damage can still be done by giving them what they want MOST of the time. If you are deft with saying NO halfheartedly and can give in after they protest and ask multiple times, you can still be successful in creating a child who cannot control themselves when they are denied something they want.
Advanced methods on overindulging: Be sure to fool yourself that if they ask NICELY after being told NO, you are somehow parenting well. This is actually manipulation and the child is merely being taught that nagging and then acting sweet is how to get what they want.
For those who wish to fail at making their child bratty: have high expectations. Tell your child what to do and calmly expect it the first time with a good attitude. If they fail to act quickly or fail to do it with a good attitude, discipline them and explain why they need to act differently next time. If this is a big change in your parenting, have a talk before trouble starts to outline what your new expectations are. Your part as the parent is to get off your phone or computer and pay attention to what your child is doing. Respond quickly, consistently, and appropriately to their actions. Set up opportunities for them to have to obey you as training. Be nice and sweet, but be firm in your expectations.
Advanced methods on overindulging: Be sure to fool yourself that if they ask NICELY after being told NO, you are somehow parenting well. This is actually manipulation and the child is merely being taught that nagging and then acting sweet is how to get what they want.
For those who wish to fail at making their child bratty: have high expectations. Tell your child what to do and calmly expect it the first time with a good attitude. If they fail to act quickly or fail to do it with a good attitude, discipline them and explain why they need to act differently next time. If this is a big change in your parenting, have a talk before trouble starts to outline what your new expectations are. Your part as the parent is to get off your phone or computer and pay attention to what your child is doing. Respond quickly, consistently, and appropriately to their actions. Set up opportunities for them to have to obey you as training. Be nice and sweet, but be firm in your expectations.
Are You a Christian Interested in Dental Hygiene?
Colleges are continually looking for what programs will grow their school. If more Christians were interested in a Bachelor's degree in Dental Hygiene and would inquire about this, it would become an area of interest eventually. Of course, only genuine interests are wanted. We wouldn't want to give a college a false sense of who would want to come to their school since funding and staff are critical for a new program.
Please, if you are a believer in Jesus Christ, contact a Christian college and ask them about an opportunity for DH, be it a partnership with a Community College or a degree completion program for those who have their DH certification but wish to get their Bachelor degree. There has to be a godly option for Allied Health students who are committed to serving their fellow man hands-on.
Please, if you are a believer in Jesus Christ, contact a Christian college and ask them about an opportunity for DH, be it a partnership with a Community College or a degree completion program for those who have their DH certification but wish to get their Bachelor degree. There has to be a godly option for Allied Health students who are committed to serving their fellow man hands-on.
Dental Hygiene for Christians
How is it that there is not one Dental Hygiene program at a solid Christian college in America at an affordable price? Do not sit idly by, Christians! Humanistic ideals are plaguing Allied Health fields. Classes like sociology and Psychology are required if one will work with the public because the world system subscribes to the evolutionary mindset that either looks inward or to mankind for the answers to life's problems.
Work...A Recipe for Success
If you ever used Instruction for Righteousness' charts, you probably agree with this post. The "Go to the Ant" chart was a favorite when I was raising young children. The chore chart was also a hit; but you know what the best child training method in my arsenal is? It is a proper attitude toward WORK.
The Bible extols the virtues of hard work, diligent work, consistent work...and we see it in nature. Ants work continually and they have their specialized jobs for the benefit of the colony. Bees are the same. It is the same with people. We have jobs to do, and rather than expend energy explaining why we should have less work or different work, we'd do well to DIG IN and do the work God has set before us.
If you are a house wife, knock your husband's socks off with keeping an organized and efficient home, complete with nutritious and delicious meals.
If you are a stay-at-home mom, do likewise and train the children to respect Dad and work to help you with your duties of keeping the home and maintaining order. Demonstrate the importance of WORK by WORKING yourself. Nothing speaks louder to our kids than that, and you'll set them up for a happy future.
The most miserable people, besides Christians living outside God's will, are those whose god is fun. Those who shirk their responsibilities or fail to cultivate the competence to complete their house hold tasks independently and effectively.
Work embodies Christian principles--our hands aren't slack, falling to evil. It requires thankfulness for what God has given us, tangible and intangible gifts. Work causes us to put our focus outside of ourselves and satisfying our lusts. It keeps us from being driven and tossed by the wind. A busy mom who is devoted to her husband being able to come in from work and relax has no time for foolishness, slovenliness, gossip or the like. Keeping a proper home and training children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord takes work and lots of it.
Children are most secure when they see Dad and Mom united and loving each other. Mom, be pretty and ready to greet your husband, and have the children in order with the house straight and a meal ready or nearly so. Greet your husband first to show it is your union that is 1st--which is wholly Biblical. Dad can have time with the kids then, but make sure you two have a few uninterrupted minutes to talk and bond in front of the kids while they are taught to respect that time. You'll be strengthening your marriage and giving your kids what they most need. This takes WORK and discipline, Ladies. But you can do it.
You may be able to snow your husband that you are 'too busy' to keep the house, do the laundry, do the cooking, teach the children and look good, but remember, none of us live isolated on an island. He knows what his mother accomplished and he sees what other women accomplish. You are only hurting yourself and cheating yourself and your family out of a much better home life by shirking your responsibilities. A man who is supported by a loving wife is more successful at work and can balance his projects at home better than a man who has to do a lot of his wife's work.
Proverbs 6: 6-11
Go to the ant, O sluggard,
Observe her ways and be wise,
7Which, having no chief,
Officer or ruler,
8Prepares her food in the summer
And gathers her provision in the harvest.
9How long will you lie down, O sluggard?
When will you arise from your sleep?
10“A little sleep, a little slumber,
A little folding of the hands to rest”—
11Your poverty will come in like a vagabond
And your need like an armed man.
The Bible extols the virtues of hard work, diligent work, consistent work...and we see it in nature. Ants work continually and they have their specialized jobs for the benefit of the colony. Bees are the same. It is the same with people. We have jobs to do, and rather than expend energy explaining why we should have less work or different work, we'd do well to DIG IN and do the work God has set before us.
If you are a house wife, knock your husband's socks off with keeping an organized and efficient home, complete with nutritious and delicious meals.
If you are a stay-at-home mom, do likewise and train the children to respect Dad and work to help you with your duties of keeping the home and maintaining order. Demonstrate the importance of WORK by WORKING yourself. Nothing speaks louder to our kids than that, and you'll set them up for a happy future.
The most miserable people, besides Christians living outside God's will, are those whose god is fun. Those who shirk their responsibilities or fail to cultivate the competence to complete their house hold tasks independently and effectively.
Work embodies Christian principles--our hands aren't slack, falling to evil. It requires thankfulness for what God has given us, tangible and intangible gifts. Work causes us to put our focus outside of ourselves and satisfying our lusts. It keeps us from being driven and tossed by the wind. A busy mom who is devoted to her husband being able to come in from work and relax has no time for foolishness, slovenliness, gossip or the like. Keeping a proper home and training children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord takes work and lots of it.
Children are most secure when they see Dad and Mom united and loving each other. Mom, be pretty and ready to greet your husband, and have the children in order with the house straight and a meal ready or nearly so. Greet your husband first to show it is your union that is 1st--which is wholly Biblical. Dad can have time with the kids then, but make sure you two have a few uninterrupted minutes to talk and bond in front of the kids while they are taught to respect that time. You'll be strengthening your marriage and giving your kids what they most need. This takes WORK and discipline, Ladies. But you can do it.
You may be able to snow your husband that you are 'too busy' to keep the house, do the laundry, do the cooking, teach the children and look good, but remember, none of us live isolated on an island. He knows what his mother accomplished and he sees what other women accomplish. You are only hurting yourself and cheating yourself and your family out of a much better home life by shirking your responsibilities. A man who is supported by a loving wife is more successful at work and can balance his projects at home better than a man who has to do a lot of his wife's work.
Proverbs 6: 6-11
Go to the ant, O sluggard,
Observe her ways and be wise,
7Which, having no chief,
Officer or ruler,
8Prepares her food in the summer
And gathers her provision in the harvest.
9How long will you lie down, O sluggard?
When will you arise from your sleep?
10“A little sleep, a little slumber,
A little folding of the hands to rest”—
11Your poverty will come in like a vagabond
And your need like an armed man.
Commonality
I had a conversation quite some time ago with a younger person about dating relationships. I was asked advice on something and part of my response was that we all feel closer to people we have things in common with. It is just human nature. When we show an interest in what matters to someone we care about, we build that relationship up. Conversely, when we do not show an interest in something important to someone we are close to, we can invite distance. Overall, in relationships, we want to do things to cultivate closeness, and this takes effort. There are some nonnegotiables in life, and if these are a factor in a relationship and there is disharmony, it may be worth taking a serious look and deciding if a change of direction should happen.
An example of this is with serious political differences if both parties are active. If your intended spouse is an avid, perhaps elected Democrat, and you and your family are on the other side of the aisle and also active, this could cause tension. If it doesn't, closeness is less likely to be promoted. It isn't impossible to work through that, but relationships already take work, so knowingly taking on a tough area like that is worth some consideration. We all inherently feel closer to people who share our deepest held beliefs and ideals.
For this reason, relationships within organizations or groups we're a part of change, friendships come and go, and sadly, if not worked on and kept a priority, marriages end. Relationships that are worthwhile take time, and those that aren't sometimes need to be given less time.
Here's to 20 yrs with the best person I know~
An example of this is with serious political differences if both parties are active. If your intended spouse is an avid, perhaps elected Democrat, and you and your family are on the other side of the aisle and also active, this could cause tension. If it doesn't, closeness is less likely to be promoted. It isn't impossible to work through that, but relationships already take work, so knowingly taking on a tough area like that is worth some consideration. We all inherently feel closer to people who share our deepest held beliefs and ideals.
For this reason, relationships within organizations or groups we're a part of change, friendships come and go, and sadly, if not worked on and kept a priority, marriages end. Relationships that are worthwhile take time, and those that aren't sometimes need to be given less time.
Here's to 20 yrs with the best person I know~
Bachelor's of Science in Dental Hygiene for Christians
If you are interested in studying to be a Dental Hygienist and are a Christian, please consider contacting Bob Jones University's interim dean of their new Health Professions school. There are currently no BS programs for Dental Hygiene in South Carolina, and there is not any Dental Hygiene program at a traditional Christian college in the U.S.. Schools are often looking for programs that are in demand, and my hope is that one decent Christian college will either start a DH program on their own, or will partner with a nearby technical college to facilitate a Bachelor's degree program. If you or your student would be interested in this, please pray and tell Bob Jones University your desire to stand a solid Christian school with a four year dental hygiene program.
Thank you!
Thank you!
Trusting God
John MacArthur has a couple of great sermons about trusting the Lord.
How much does this play in to our life as a Christian?
When things don't go as we expect and we fly into a tailspin, what does that say about our level of trust in God?
Are there 'levels' of trust?
Can we trust someone we don't really know, as they are meant to be known? Or is it possible we can create a person to be what we think they are or want them to be, 'love' them according to our flesh, yet not really know them?
Can we trust someone we only 'think' we know?
Root cause analysis isn't just for the chemical industry.
How much does this play in to our life as a Christian?
When things don't go as we expect and we fly into a tailspin, what does that say about our level of trust in God?
Are there 'levels' of trust?
Can we trust someone we don't really know, as they are meant to be known? Or is it possible we can create a person to be what we think they are or want them to be, 'love' them according to our flesh, yet not really know them?
Can we trust someone we only 'think' we know?
Root cause analysis isn't just for the chemical industry.
Proverbs 4:23 New King James Version (NKJV)
23 Keep your heart with all diligence,
For out of it spring the issues of life.
For out of it spring the issues of life.
A Downside to Institutional Style Schooling
My oldest was taking the PSAT the other day at one of our local high schools. It is the 2nd time we've been to this school for testing since they are one of the few in our area that administer the AP Latin exam.
The people we've worked with have been terrific. Very friendly and helpful, and I can tell those who work at the school care about the kids and their job. The main receptionist/administrative assistant is incredible at her job.
There is "In God We Trust" framed in the office.
Notwithstanding the obvious spiritual problems of an education not founded on the word of God, there is an element of institutional school that I've seen afresh due to a book I just went through. It is entitled When People Are Big and God is Small, and it tackles overcoming codependency, peer pressure and the fear of man. The fear of man is a topic taught about in Scripture plenty, and everyone in our world deals with it to some degree.
What I've seen recently is that schools foster and feed a fear of man like few other things can. There is continual pressure to conform and fit in, or because of that people respond by recoiling and going a totally different way. There are always people around, so an introvert has to spend hours and hours of their day unhappy. Kids spend so much time with peers, that is who they learn to go to for many of their problems, though kids need solid advice from adults.
In the time I've spent in the office, I've seen many kids. Everyone goes through the day doing what they need to do, but it is so much time away from parents and home...I realize for some that is a good thing, but that doesn't speak to the issue of the school and how the kids shouldn't be influenced so much by people their own age.
Even if our academic standards lined up with the public schools, and even if they weren't failing to base the education on the truth (and isn't anything not based on truth a total waste of time ultimately?), and even if the schools were safe from predatory adults or dangerous kids, the fact it is a quagmire of kids with various beliefs, backgrounds and problems. Naturally when we're around other people we're heavily influenced by them, and a measure of conformity is needed to survive in a setting like school.
Finally, let us remember that the teacher in a public school is not necessarily the one leading the class. It is the ideas, the culture, the TEXTBOOKS, which in certain settings everyone agrees are going downhill when it comes to telling the truth about our nation and science.
For 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. Eph 6:12
As Luke 6:40 says, A pupil is not above his teacher; but everyone, after he has been fully trained, will be like his teacher.
The people we've worked with have been terrific. Very friendly and helpful, and I can tell those who work at the school care about the kids and their job. The main receptionist/administrative assistant is incredible at her job.
There is "In God We Trust" framed in the office.
Notwithstanding the obvious spiritual problems of an education not founded on the word of God, there is an element of institutional school that I've seen afresh due to a book I just went through. It is entitled When People Are Big and God is Small, and it tackles overcoming codependency, peer pressure and the fear of man. The fear of man is a topic taught about in Scripture plenty, and everyone in our world deals with it to some degree.
What I've seen recently is that schools foster and feed a fear of man like few other things can. There is continual pressure to conform and fit in, or because of that people respond by recoiling and going a totally different way. There are always people around, so an introvert has to spend hours and hours of their day unhappy. Kids spend so much time with peers, that is who they learn to go to for many of their problems, though kids need solid advice from adults.
In the time I've spent in the office, I've seen many kids. Everyone goes through the day doing what they need to do, but it is so much time away from parents and home...I realize for some that is a good thing, but that doesn't speak to the issue of the school and how the kids shouldn't be influenced so much by people their own age.
Even if our academic standards lined up with the public schools, and even if they weren't failing to base the education on the truth (and isn't anything not based on truth a total waste of time ultimately?), and even if the schools were safe from predatory adults or dangerous kids, the fact it is a quagmire of kids with various beliefs, backgrounds and problems. Naturally when we're around other people we're heavily influenced by them, and a measure of conformity is needed to survive in a setting like school.
Finally, let us remember that the teacher in a public school is not necessarily the one leading the class. It is the ideas, the culture, the TEXTBOOKS, which in certain settings everyone agrees are going downhill when it comes to telling the truth about our nation and science.
For 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. Eph 6:12
As Luke 6:40 says, A pupil is not above his teacher; but everyone, after he has been fully trained, will be like his teacher.
Self-Control During Hormonal Fluctuations
As 2018 begins, my thoughts continually go toward the psychological bent our culture is experiencing. Friends of ours told us how in their small, rural town, psychology classes are now mandatory in the high schools. Sadly, there is not a Christian high school option in their area either, so the youth are all getting taught these philosophies that are counter to God's truth. I began re-reading The Truth War by John MacArthur last night as a way to get my mind straight for the coming year on some of the battles we, the Church, are facing.
Throughout my adult life, I've read and listened to sermons about human emotions, and something that has stuck out to me lately is the reality that hormones don't make us have wrong thoughts or actions, rather they make it harder to control our thoughts and actions. As women, we can play the hormone card, and depending on how we were raised, this can go several ways. The Bible says that the heart is deceitful and desperately wicked, who can know it? And out of the heart come all manner of evil.
Think about it--when you have your cycle, Ladies, is your temper is shorter with your husband and children, but not with your friends?
I recall having postpartum issues after my son, and in hindsight I probably could have said something to my midwife. Instead I went to a nouthetic counselor for 6 weeks even though it meant driving one hour each way with a nursing infant in tow and my husband having to take off work to watch our 2 older children. Once I had to take the older children, who were very small themselves. The reality is that the counseling helped me deal with deeper seated issues that were a part of my thinking but which got uncontrollable with the flush of hormones I was dealing with. In the end, that time in the Word has proven priceless to me.
Would anyone have balked at my talking to my doctor (midwife) about the struggles I was having? Of course not, and it may not have been wrong to do, but this is just an example of how we as believers may short-change God by immediately going to a quick fix when we have emotional or mental struggles. Sometimes we can find ourselves in a situation that causes us more harm than good.
Do I think people with mental problems just need more faith? No, I sure don't. But I do think sometimes they have misplaced faith which has contributed to their problem, or that they have no faith in the true God which will lead to problems. The foundation we have matters critically to the life we are living.
Trust the Lord, trust His word, and don't be afraid to be different from the world.
Christianity and Psychology
Throughout my adult life, I've read and listened to sermons about human emotions, and something that has stuck out to me lately is the reality that hormones don't make us have wrong thoughts or actions, rather they make it harder to control our thoughts and actions. As women, we can play the hormone card, and depending on how we were raised, this can go several ways. The Bible says that the heart is deceitful and desperately wicked, who can know it? And out of the heart come all manner of evil.
Think about it--when you have your cycle, Ladies, is your temper is shorter with your husband and children, but not with your friends?
I recall having postpartum issues after my son, and in hindsight I probably could have said something to my midwife. Instead I went to a nouthetic counselor for 6 weeks even though it meant driving one hour each way with a nursing infant in tow and my husband having to take off work to watch our 2 older children. Once I had to take the older children, who were very small themselves. The reality is that the counseling helped me deal with deeper seated issues that were a part of my thinking but which got uncontrollable with the flush of hormones I was dealing with. In the end, that time in the Word has proven priceless to me.
Would anyone have balked at my talking to my doctor (midwife) about the struggles I was having? Of course not, and it may not have been wrong to do, but this is just an example of how we as believers may short-change God by immediately going to a quick fix when we have emotional or mental struggles. Sometimes we can find ourselves in a situation that causes us more harm than good.
Do I think people with mental problems just need more faith? No, I sure don't. But I do think sometimes they have misplaced faith which has contributed to their problem, or that they have no faith in the true God which will lead to problems. The foundation we have matters critically to the life we are living.
Trust the Lord, trust His word, and don't be afraid to be different from the world.
Christianity and Psychology
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)