There isn’t a one of us who doesn’t desire to become an Excellent Wife. For some it appears to come so easily. They seem to be the perfect example of the Excellent Wife. Maybe their personality type displays these excellent qualities easily with what seems to be no effort on their part. Then again, age may be the key and over time they have been tempered and they have indeed learned how to become an Excellent Wife. Truly it is a process of becoming. We do seek to “become” but we will never fully arrive at the “perfect” until we’re HOME!! You’re in safe company here (we haven’t arrived yet!) as we journey together in our understanding of what an Excellent Wife is. During the 2011 year we will discuss the Foundational Truths of the Excellent Wife and also the Faithful Commitments of the Excellent Wife. New topics concerning these areas will be posted six times a year (every two months). Please join us.
July 1, 2011
FOCUS
There isn’t a one of us who doesn’t desire to become an Excellent Wife. For some it appears to come so easily. They seem to be the perfect example of the Excellent Wife. Maybe their personality type displays these excellent qualities easily with what seems to be no effort on their part. Then again, age may be the key and over time they have been tempered and they have indeed learned how to become an Excellent Wife. Truly it is a process of becoming. We do seek to “become” but we will never fully arrive at the “perfect” until we’re HOME!! You’re in safe company here (we haven’t arrived yet!) as we journey together in our understanding of what an Excellent Wife is. During the 2011 year we will discuss the Foundational Truths of the Excellent Wife and also the Faithful Commitments of the Excellent Wife. New topics concerning these areas will be posted six times a year (every two months). Please join us.
WORDS TO INSPIRE
HOME, the Wife’s Domain
Based on the book THE EXCELLENT WIFE by Martha Peace
I enjoy genealogy as a hobby. In my census research, I have noticed that under the category “occupation” all of the women in my families’ past have answered with the words “keeping house.”
What does the Bible say about “keeping house?”
When studying the Proverbs 31 woman, I note that 9 out of the 22 verses refer directly to her work in the home. The Titus 2, 3-5 directive says that women are intended to be “workers at home.” In I Timothy 5:14,15 it states that women are to “keep house.” Martha Peace says that the Greek word for “keep house” is oikodespoteo, that means literally to “guide or rule the house.”
The Biblical concept of a “worker in the home” is not popular in today’s culture, but God gives a clear directive that He intends for women to work in the home and do a good job of caring for their families. Younger women are usually highlighted, as they have children to watch over and train as well as a house to be kept clean. THE EXCELLENT WIFE says that a wife who is gone with too many activities or work may not have the time nor the energy to keep her home as it should be kept, which I agree with. Older women also need to take homemaking seriously and influence their grandchildren in the ways of the Lord. No matter what our age, we need to care for our husbands – even more so when the husband is a pastor!
A personal inventory about the role of homemaking for the Christian woman may include the following questions:
What is your heart set on?
Are material possessions of too much importance?
Are your children/grandchildren high on your list of importance?
Do you have the Biblical mindset of housework being “homemaking?”
Have you bought into the pervasive cultural attitude that a woman who stays at home is an “non-person” and has little value?
A frequently quoted axiom is “If Mama ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy!” We smile as we read this quote but a frown comes quickly when truly “Mama ain’t happy.” Either the extreme of perfectionism or laziness can cause emotional stress in homemaking, so both must be avoided or happiness will be destroyed. God wants us to set the tone of joy, optimism, and delight in the Lord and in our families, so consider meditating on Psalm 145:5-10 – read it repeatedly and incorporate the verses into your life. As you go about your daily chores sing hymns and praise songs with “with thankfulness in your heart to God.” Smile and share with your family members what wonderful things God has done for you and for them. A wife’s home is her domain. With the Lord’s strength, make yours a home where faith grows in a calming, soothing, and reassuring atmosphere.
NEEDS OF THE REAL WORLD
The Wife’s Fear-Anxiety
Fear is crippling to the mind, heart and body. It can immobilize you to where you cannot even move out of your home or car or situation. Sometimes your heart races so much you can’t even hear you’re thinking process. Fear is very real. If you have experienced fear in this way it cannot be stopped by just telling yourself to not be afraid. It takes a lot more than that. It takes God actually moving you in baby steps. Sometimes you may have to ask the Lord to help you just walk from the edge of the house out to the curb to get your mail. It takes a divine intervention to get you out to the curb. It is better to take just the baby steps one at a time. Not pressing you to go huge steps. I will just go to the curb and get the mail. Lord help me to just do that. Fear is not a good thing to have and it certainly draws away from the Lord but it is also a very real fact for many women. It doesn’t matter what your fear may be it is still a fear. That fear can drive us. It totally consumes us sometimes so that it is a part of our life on a daily diet. That is when we need to ask the Lord to control our fear. God recognizes that we have the fear. He wants to give us peace of mind heart and soul. We have to put our full trust in Him and lean on Him even to get out to the curb to get the mail. “Jesus says, Thou shalt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on thee.” The mind plays a big part in FEAR. If your mind is thinking about the FEAR all of the time, your mind is not peaceful. Therefore in order to keep a peaceful mind your mind must be concentrating on Him alone. God does not want us to have FEAR. He wants us to be full of joy and not crippled by one of Satan’s plots. Sometimes God uses other Christians to intercede for us. Sometimes the voice of a believer can calm us and God uses that person to calm our hearts. Intercession is a wonderful tool to be used for those who suffer FEAR. Psalm 34:4 says “I sought the Lord and He answered me, and delivered me from all my fears.” The point here is that you must seek the Lord and go to Him to help you from the FEAR. What about you? Is there a FEAR in your life that has grown so much that it has hindered you from drawing near to the Lord?
CHECK IT OUT
The Power of Hospitality
by Chuck& Kathie Crismier
by Chuck& Kathie Crismier
As a young pastor’s wife I really don’t think I embraced the idea of hospitality. I would like to think that I didn’t recognize it as my “gift” BUT in complete honesty, I don’t think I was thinking of hospitality as a gift. Truth be told, I was trying to NOT even think of others! Probably at the expense of many lost opportunities on my part. HOSPITALITY IS TO BE CULTIVATED IN EACH OF US. Do you agree? It probably is to be the natural overflow of Christ’s love in us expressing itself to others in hospitality. However, how it displays itself in each of us may differ! This book, The Power of Hospitality is intriguing and enlightening. Read it to see how “an open heart, open hand, and open home will change your world!”
HELPFUL HINTS FOR HOME
GETTING AWAY
Home. We appreciate it more when we can get away from it and slide into some degree of anonymity. Often, we are more grateful for it when we come back from time away to once again enjoy our own beds, our own coffee makers, and our own routines. Do you have a get away planned for this summer? Even if it is a mini-vacation, a few days away from our normal household demands can bring us back refreshed and more appreciative of our God given homes.
My dining room looks like a laundry room and camping store exploded within it's walls. Usually, this would make me as nervous as my dog in a lightning storm, but it actually makes me one happy momma. Why? Because it means that preparations for our upcoming vacation are well under way. At the time of this writing, I'm anticipating seeing many of you at the AFLC Annual Conference. While this is a very enjoyable time for us, it is still part of our "work" as we participate in discussions and hear updates on the various ministries within our church at large.
The day after Conference officially begins our vacation. While our plans have never included a cruise, resort, or five star hotel, we still feel like we are getting away grandly while we stay in our tents and cook over the Coleman stove. Long, long, long ago, I used to feel guilty at taking two weeks to devote to JUST family. That guilt I quickly found to be false, and threw it away and began to accept the blessing of spending uninterrupted time with my husband and children.
One of our children has already flown the nest, and this year finds us taking our second camping adventure without him. Our missing him serves as a reminder of how important it is to take the time to create memories with the other children still at home. His leaving also reinforces our conscience decision to take vacation even though for us it doesn't involve cruises or resorts.
Another deciding factor for us in getting away, is that it makes us better servants when we come back home. Even though we return with loads of dirty laundry, gallons of sand in the car, and the inevitable buckets of rocks and pine cones, we arrive refreshed and ready to be used as God would use us.
Time is short, children grow and go, and what is left is memories. What better reason for getting away?
IDEAS THAT WORK
HEALTH for BODY (Physical) SOUL (Mind, Will, Emotions) SPIRIT (Spiritual)
The Soul
The Soul
The Soul. It consists of your mind, will and emotions. It is what makes you - you. Have you ever desired to be well in these areas? Have you ever desired to help people on this level? A few articles ago, I mentioned stress as the number one root problem of most of our diseases. Stress has its beginnings in our mind, will and emotions. That is one of the reasons that our Lord says to take our thoughts captive. 2 Corinthians 10:5. Does it stand to reason that we need education for healing in this area?
This past month, I had the privilege of attending The Healing Academy sponsored by Wind of the Spirit Ministries. This 4 ½ day seminar dealt with: Jesus’ Model for Ministry; Abba, Father; Healing of the Human Spirit; The Holy Spirit; Word of Knowledge; Forgiveness and The Healing Process; The Power of the Spoken Word; Judgments and Vows; Emotional Healing; Human Sexuality; Healing from Sexual Brokenness; The God of All Comfort; Deliverance; Physical Healing; Scriptural Guidelines to Ministering in the Power of the Holy Spirit; and A Service of Healing and Wholeness. It is important to have education but education without experience is just head knowledge. The sessions give you education plus practical, hands-on experience in the classroom.
Why do I mention this? So, you will have a resource. They respond to requests for seminars. For pastors and their wives, they suggest they attend a pastors and wives seminar first because of the honest, sensitive nature for your own healing. Then, prayerfully, consider a seminar for your own church.
Any interest for a pastors and wives seminar? Contact Lori at loriawillard@gmail.com or 218-463-3756.
Pay attention to “soul” in these verses: Psalm 19:7, Psalm 23:3, Psalm 119:175, Psalm 142:4, Isaiah 55:3, Matthew 16:26, Mark 12:29-31, I Thessalonians 5:23, Hebrews 10:39, James 5:19-20, 3 John 2.
Resource: www.wosm-nw.org
HERE'S WHATS COOKING
Grilled Peaches
Ingredients
3 tablespoons white sugar
3/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 teaspoons freshly ground black peppercorns
2 large fresh peaches with peel, halved and pitted
2 1/2 ounces blue cheese, crumbled
Directions
1. In a saucepan over medium heat, stir together the white sugar, balsamic vinegar, and pepper. Simmer until liquid has reduced by one half. It should become slightly thicker. Remove from heat, and set aside.
2. Preheat grill for medium-high heat.
3. Lightly oil the grill grate. Place peaches on the prepared grill, cut side down. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the flesh is caramelized. Turn peaches over. Brush the top sides with the balsamic glaze, and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes.
4. Transfer the peach halves to individual serving dishes, and drizzle with remaining glaze. Sprinkle with crumbled blue cheese.
Rhubarb Crisp Recipes
Ingredients:
1 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
1 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup quick cooking rolled oats
1/2 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon cinnamon
4 cups sliced rhubarb
1 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 cup water
1 teaspoon vanilla
Preparation:
1 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup quick cooking rolled oats
1/2 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon cinnamon
4 cups sliced rhubarb
1 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 cup water
1 teaspoon vanilla
Preparation:
In mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, oats, butter and cinnamon; mix together until crumbly. Press half of the brown sugar and oats mixture into a buttered 8-inch square baking dish. Top with the sliced rhubarb. In a saucepan combine 1 cup granulated sugar, cornstarch, and the 1 cup of water and vanilla. Cook together until clear, then pour over rhubarb. Top rhubarb with remaining crumb mixture and bake
(allrecipes.com, about.com)
(allrecipes.com, about.com)
TOGETHER THROUGH PRAYER
Dear Father,
As we tend to our homes, give us a spirit of joy in our service. While we clean, organize, prepare, and plan, help us remember that our roles in the homes are of eternal importance in Your eyes. As we repeat the same tasks again and again, help us to praise You again and again for our families, homes, and plans that You have for our good.
Do not let us be gripped by fear and worry as we are faced with pressure from without and within to do something of more importance in the world's eyes. Whether we have employment outside the home or not, help us see the value in creating warm, hospitable homes for our family and friends as of first importance.
Father, thank You for being the cornerstone of our homes, and of our hearts. May our work be a reflection of our love and gratitude to You.
Amen.
As we tend to our homes, give us a spirit of joy in our service. While we clean, organize, prepare, and plan, help us remember that our roles in the homes are of eternal importance in Your eyes. As we repeat the same tasks again and again, help us to praise You again and again for our families, homes, and plans that You have for our good.
Do not let us be gripped by fear and worry as we are faced with pressure from without and within to do something of more importance in the world's eyes. Whether we have employment outside the home or not, help us see the value in creating warm, hospitable homes for our family and friends as of first importance.
Father, thank You for being the cornerstone of our homes, and of our hearts. May our work be a reflection of our love and gratitude to You.
Amen.
GETTING TO KNOW YOU
THE INTERVIEWS IN REVIEW
It has been six months hearing from many of our pastor’s wives through interviews.
What has been the main theme for all the interviews? From the oldest Pastor’s wife to the youngest we have heard many things but some things remained the same for all the interviews. Let us look at some of these. The first one is when I asked what they thought there ministry was in the church that they served with their husbands every lady said, “First it is to my husband” Not one lady was coached to say this but each lady said that it was their first ministry. We give Glory to God for all of these women who have been such testimonies to us. The second one was to their children. Taking care of their children needs was the ministry that they felt God leading them in. The third area then varied from one lady to the next with each one of them having different interests from crafts, music, children’s ministries, Bible studies and many more.
Now the other important thing that we have noticed is that when asked “How would you encourage each of our Pastor’s wives they all said to stay in the Word of God at all times to not leave it. This is a key to all of us who are in the ministry and to those wives who will be going into the ministry. Each time these ladies shared they also said that prayer is the key. The other main thing that was shared is that we are to be good listeners to our husbands. They need us to be sounding blocks and to pray for them in each situation. Another main theme that was said by many is to be who you are. Some like to send quick breads to the shut ins. Others like to visit the sick with their husbands and still others like to talk on the phone with some of the women who never get phone calls. Whatever it is that God has you to do in your church home just be who you are don’t try be like someone else. Sometimes we like to compare ourselves to other women and that only brings frustration.
This has just been a little taste of what has been shared over the last six months. For those of you who have not been able to read the interviews we hope that this gives you an insight of what was shared.
May 6, 2011
FOCUS
The Excellent Wife
There isn’t a one of us who doesn’t desire to become an Excellent Wife. For some it appears to come so easily. They seem to be the perfect example of the Excellent Wife. Maybe their personality type displays these excellent qualities easily with what seems to be no effort on their part. Then again, age may be the key and over time they have been tempered and they have indeed learned how to become an Excellent Wife. Truly it is a process of becoming. We do seek to “become” but we will never fully arrive at the “perfect” until we’re HOME!! You’re in safe company here (we haven’t arrived yet!) as we journey together in our understanding of what an Excellent Wife is. During the 2011 year we will discuss the Foundational Truths of the Excellent Wife and also the Faithful Commitments of the Excellent Wife. New topics concerning these areas will be posted six times a year (every two months). Please join us.
WORDS TO INSPIRE
The Wife’s Heart – CHRIST
Let’s build on previous articles based on THE EXCELLENT WIFE by Martha Peace, specifically addressing:
THE WIFE’S DAY-TO-DAY HEART’S DEVOTION TO CHRIST.
As I write this, the word “why” comes to mind” Why does this topic need to be addressed among pastor’s wives? Perhaps our devotion and longing may not always purely and solely to the Lord Jesus. Like other’s, we have idols in our hearts. According to Ms. Peace, “An idol can be anything. It may even be a good thing. But if we want it so badly that we sin if we don’t get it or sin to attain it, then we are worshiping an idol rather than Christ. We worship what we serve, speak about, sacrifice for, seek after, spend time and money on, and trust in.” (Ps. 115 & 135) Let’s look into our own hearts and ask these questions:
What’s frequently on my mind?
What’s being wished for?
What’s really important?
And because we’re women J, let’s look at the area of romance or in this instance, more appropriately called non-romance. Allison (a fictional character) tells her story with tears welling up in her eyes. She says her husband is the problem as he’s not affectionate; he uses her for sex and never tells her that he loves her. She says, “He doesn’t talk much, and watches TV all the time when he’s home. He’ll do things if she asks him but he should be taking the initiative.” She doesn’t want to live the rest of her life with a husband who doesn’t really care. She is miserable.
What’s the answer to Allison’s predicament? Her husband is not mean but reserved and somewhat selfish. He is satisfied with their lives as they are, but Allison is not. She wants to be cherished, special, plus she craves conversation and attention. She wants romance and sweetness – that’s not a bad thing – but when women set their hearts on romance and special feelings instead of setting their hearts on serving and worshiping the Lord Jesus Christ, frequently the result is a life full of disappointment, frustration, and bitterness. She needs a heart renewal. Her deepest desires need to be those recorded in Psalm 119. The Psalmist desired, sought after, and longer for God with his whole heart.
“Non-romance is not the only thing we women set our hearts on. Common idols (false gods) about which Christian wives struggle are: Being in good health, physical appearance, being treated fairly, having a pain-free emotional life, children, material things, money, success, other’s approval, being in control, having our “needs” met.
Grasp this: Like Allison, whenever compulsion toward anything in life becomes more important than the Lord Jesus Christ, God frustrates that idol worship because He wants our pure devotion. Do any of us desires a life of frustration?
Allison’s husband (whom she was blaming) was not the origin of the problem; it was her heart’s devotion toward having a pain-free emotional life and having her own needs met. That’s what she was worshipping. Those were her idols. What are yours? Worship goes on every waking moment of every day. Where is your worship directed? Is it to the Lord? Or to an idol…..
NEEDS OF THE REAL WORLD
Control of the Wife’s Tongue
When careless, angry, abusive or even malicious words come out of mouth and are said to my husband, it is because my heart isn’t right with my Lord. My rash words can deeply wound my husband. They sometimes inflict pain. Matthew 12:34 says, “For the mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart” If I say wrong words they begin with wrong thoughts. I need to stop immediately and think about what I am thinking. If it is not Christ honoring I need to stop and renew my mind with scripture. Ask the Lord’s forgiveness and allow my heart to be renewed. Then the right words will come out of my mouth with a sweet sound.
I will be heard much more from my husband if my speech is forbearing and sweet. Proverbs 25:15 says, “By forbearance a ruler may be persuaded and a soft tongue breaks the bone.” Also, a Godly wife is wise and kind. When I open my mouth to speak wisdom and kindness should flow out. I receive wisdom from the Word of God and my kindness from the Holy Spirit. Again if I may repeat myself, I need to be in the Word daily, searching scripture verses and listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit and not my own thoughts.
Here are some hints that have helped me to practice my speech. Practice it over again and again until I know exactly what I am going to say. I also can practice the tone in which I am going to say it. I can also practice saying it out loud alone. A Godly woman is a trained woman. Proverbs 10:20 “The tongue of the righteous is as choice silver. The heart of the wicked is worth little.” Lord help me to work on my tongue so it is like a precious jewel and not an ugly rusty piece of metal.
CHECK IT OUT
Book Review
"One Thousand Gifts"
by Ann Voskamp
With tears of repentance over past resentments and grumblings and combined with expressions of joy over new insights into God's Word and his patience with me, I finished reading, "One Thousand Gifts" by Ann Voskamp. There is not one of us that does not seek after joy . . . . yes, . . . that fullness of joy our Lord promised (John 15:11). Time and again Voskamp cements the truth in our minds that God's gift of the feeling of joy begins in the act of thanksgiving. In her beautiful style of poetic language we read Voskamp's work as though she has let us see her private diary. She shows how thanksgiving . . . .yes, gratitude . . . "gently peeled back the layers of her wounds to heal." She leads her readers to a deeper understanding of gratitude by sharing her struggles and joys as a writer, global advocate for the poor, farmer's wife and homeschooling mother of "half a dozen kids." Voskamp's book also gave me that "Aha" moment as to the benefits of a previous book I had neglected to finish by Nancy DeMoss and it gave me the desire to pick it up again. In her book, "Choosing Gratitude," DeMoss re-affirmed and drove home the new insights I had learned. She saturates our minds with Scripture and very skillfully connects the dots from gratitude . . . to joy . . . to worship. In our worship we are reminded that this too is possible, . . . to give thanks for our thorns through God's endless grace. Oh to see that grace . . .to give thanks . . . and to find joy which leads us to true worship. Because life is always changing, bringing new challenges and new responses, these two books have a prominent place on my bookshelf and will doubtless be re-read in my lifelong process of achieving a grateful heart. The choice is always there. When we choose gratitude and a lifestyle of thanksgiving and receive God's grace, we will experience joy and participate in true worship.
HELPFUL HINTS FOR HOME
Decorating Your Home
Have you ever been encouraged while you decorated your home to bring the “outdoors in?” Well, now is the perfect time of year to think about bringing the “indoors out!” Your home isn’t just what is contained in the physical space of your house’s walls, but extends to wherever you are. A great relaxing way to enjoy your home this summer is to think of your backyard as one more family room.
Don’t have a deck? An affordable and fun idea (I promise you it is as I’ve done it) is to pick up some old wood palettes, paint them a cheery color and coat them with an outdoor grade clear varnish. You could do several different colors and place them together for a fun “tiled” look. Place a few potted plants, a small table and chairs, and you have a great spot to relax or entertain friends.
You want everyone to feel welcome in your backyard except - mosquitoes! Don’t forget to light some citronella candles, found at any hardware or discount store, shortly before you plan on using your outdoor space. Also, have plenty of insect repellent and sunscreen on hand not only for your family, but for any guests who may need some protection from the elements.
Even if you don’t have little ones at home anymore, it’s always a hit to have a bucketful of outdoor toys ready for young guests. Bubbles, rubber balls, sidewalk chalk, and if you have space, a sand table are great to have on hand. A few years ago I picked up a sand/water table with an attachable cover and that has proven to be my best investment for keeping my own children and their friends happily playing for hours.
Croquet and badminton sets are old school outdoor games that still are enjoyed by teens and adults. Chances are you already have a set in your garage, and if not they are easily found at yard sales or discount stores. If you have older kids/young adults in your household, make sure that they have comfortable size lawn chairs and maybe their own table for playing games on if you want to enjoy some conversation with other grown-ups.
Grilling is perhaps one of the easiest ways to bring family life outdoors. Have family members divide up side dish prep duties and everyone will have more time for enjoying their shish-ka-bob and beautiful weather. As you set your table, consider using a clean colorful bed sheet for a tablecloth. If you are hosting a party and don’t want to be worrying about cleanup right after supper, have a big bucket of soapy water where guests can put their dishes and utensils to soak so wash time later will be simplified.
Enjoy having a “bigger” house this summer. Utilizing your yard is the most affordable addition you can make to your home!
IDEAS THAT WORK
Health for the Body, Soul, and Spirit
Bragg’s Apple Cider Vinegar
Read 3 John 2 and Genesis 6:3
The miracles of apple cider vinegar (ACV) for a stronger, longer, healthier life:
· Promotes a youthful skin and vibrant healthy body.
· Removes artery plaque, infections and body toxins.
· Fights germs, viruses, bacteria and mold naturally.
· Retards old age onset in humans, pets and farm animals.
· Regulates calcium metabolism.
· Keeps blood the right consistency.
· Regulates women’s menstration, relieves PMS, and UTI.
· Normalizes urine PH, relieving frequent urge to urinate.
· Helps digestion, assimilation, and helps balance the PH.
· Relieves sore throats, laryngitis and throat tickles and cleans out throat and gum toxins.
· Protects against food poisoning and even brings relief if you do get it.
· Detoxes the body so sinus, asthma, and flu sufferers can breathe easier and more normally.
· Banishes acne, athlete’s foot, soothes burns, sunburns.
· Prevents itching scalp, baldness, and dry hair.
· Banishes dandruff, rashes, and shingles.
· Fights arthritis and helps remove crystals and toxins from joints, tissues, organs and entire body.
· Controls and normalizes body weight.
ACV Drink Daily: 1T. in 4 oz. purified water upon rising, one hour before lunch, and one hour before dinner.
Recently I fasted using the Bragg’s method of alternating pure water with diluted fresh vegetable juice to give my body a rest. Result: I had more energy and I had lost a couple of pounds in one day. They suggest weekly one-day fasts and a fast for a couple of days a month to help rid the body of toxin build up. I read one portion that uses a Bragg’s solution as an eyewash. If following prescribed eyewash, there is no need for cataract surgery! I strongly recommend purchasing the $9.95 book and read all the benefits for yourself.
Resources: “Apple Cider Vinegar Health System” by Paul C. Bragg and Patricia Bragg. Christian authors educating public on natural health and healing.
HERE'S WHAT'S COOKING
Watermelon Summer Salad
Ingredients
3/4 cup halved, thinly sliced red onion
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 1/2 quarts seeded, cubed watermelon
3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/2 cup pitted black olive halves
1 cup chopped fresh mint
2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions
1. Place the onion slices in a small bowl with the lime juice. The acid of the lime will mellow the flavor of the raw onion. Let stand for 10 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, combine the watermelon cubes, feta cheese, black olives, onions with the lime juice, and mint. Drizzle olive oil over it all, and toss to blend. Dig in and be prepared for a pleasant surprise!
Mid-Summer Italian Bread Salad
Ingredients
1 clove garlic
1 (1 pound) loaf Italian bread
1 cup chopped tomatoes
1 cup cucumber - peeled, seeded and chopped
1 cup chopped red onion
1 clove garlic, minced
2 cups chopped fresh basil
1/8 cup chopped fresh thyme
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Directions
1. Rub a peeled clove of garlic around a wooden salad bowl.
2. Pull apart or chop the bread into bite-size pieces.
3. In the prepared salad bowl, combine the bread, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, garlic, basil and thyme. Add enough olive oil and vinegar to lightly coat, toss and serve.
TOGETHER THROUGH PRAYER
Dear Father,
May our tongues reflect the joy in our hearts as we serve you by serving our husbands. Cleanse us from thoughts, attitudes, and ultimately actions, that hinder us in our role as wives. Help us to use words that build up, rather than tear down. May our words encourage our husbands and speak truth to them. Let our words echo those of the pslamist when he said, "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Thy sight, O LORD, my rock and my Redeemer."
Amen.
May our tongues reflect the joy in our hearts as we serve you by serving our husbands. Cleanse us from thoughts, attitudes, and ultimately actions, that hinder us in our role as wives. Help us to use words that build up, rather than tear down. May our words encourage our husbands and speak truth to them. Let our words echo those of the pslamist when he said, "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Thy sight, O LORD, my rock and my Redeemer."
Amen.
GETTING TO KNOW YOU
An Interview With Judy Franz
Judy Franz is the wife of Peter Franz serving Grace Free Lutheran in Maple Grove, Minnesota. They have seven children and three grandchildren.
When I asked Judy what ministry she was involved in at Grace Free Lutheran she said, “Well first it would be to support my husband.” “She said, “Praying for him, encouraging him and attending the activities of the church.” “My personality is of a helping nature, so wherever I can help is where I am most comfortable.” She supports the women’s leaders and ministries in the church but being involved in children’s ministries whether it is teaching Sunday School or VBS is probably where she feels the most comfortable.
Judy had several encouraging thoughts for all of us. 1) Keep close to God through Bible Reading and Prayer. Allow every situation to cause you to grow closer to Christ. Make Jesus your closest friend. 2) Pray about everything to lift the burden of worry. Ask God to be in control of any interruptions in the day. 3) Support your husband and care for your children. Make the home to be a place where they can be refreshed to face the pressures of the outside world. 4) Don’t compare yourself to other pastor’s wives. God has given us all different talents and characteristic, and different energy levels and we are all at different stages of our lives. Do what you believe that God wants you to do after seeking Him about this. 5) Show appreciation for kindnesses of others. 6) Be a friend to all women in your church 7) Be an encourager smiles don’t cost anything so give them away. 8) Say hi to the woman who is standing alone in church. 9) Don’t gossip. 10) Focus on the blessings of the church you are in because it is not always greener on the other side of the fence. 11) All pastor’s wives feel inadequate sometimes. We worry if we are doing enough and often get down on ourselves. Ask for God’s guidance and do your best knowing God will bless your efforts. Satan tries to destroy us with discouragement. 12) Have joy in serving Jesus because what is done for Him has eternal value.
Judy’s favorite verse is Psalm 121:1,2. It was a favorite verse of her mother’s and it has special meaning to her also. I lift up my eyes to the hills where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.
March 9, 2011
FOCUS
The Excellent Wife
There isn’t a one of us who doesn’t desire to become an Excellent Wife. For some it appears to come so easily. They seem to be the perfect example of the Excellent Wife. Maybe their personality type displays these excellent qualities easily with what seems to be no effort on their part. Then again, age may be the key and over time they have been tempered and they have indeed learned how to become an Excellent Wife. Truly it is a process of becoming. We do seek to “become” but we will never fully arrive at the “perfect” until we’re HOME!! You’re in safe company here (we haven’t arrived yet!) as we journey together in our understanding of what an Excellent Wife is. During the 2011 year we will discuss the Foundational Truths of the Excellent Wife and also the Faithful Commitments of the Excellent Wife. New topics concerning these areas will be posted six times a year (every two months). Please join us.
WORDS TO INSPIRE
A WIFE’S UNDERSTANDING OF HER ROLE
From the book THE EXCELLENT WIFE by Martha Peace
From the book THE EXCELLENT WIFE by Martha Peace
Here’s an elementary question: “Who was created first, Adam or Eve?” Does this order have any significance when thinking about the roles of husband and wife?
Recently I watched the movie “Fire Proof” again. The scene when the firemen (with the help of bystanders) were pushing the car off the tracks as the train approached unable to stop, was once again a traumatic experience for me. As I write this article, I am reminded that each one was aware of the danger but more importantly they were aware of the critical importance of the teamwork, as the captain counted “1,2,3, push!” They functioned together as a team with one goal in mind – the safety of those trapped in the vehicle. Just as a local fire department is assigned roles (everyone is not the captain), God has assigned a particular role for the wife and husband. If our goal is to glorify God, we must understand and accept God’s perspective in our relationships. He is the mighty one who has the insight of both Creator and Redeemer. Open your Bibles as you study the next paragraphs –
Men and women are created in the image of God. “…in the image of God He created him, male and female He created them.” (Gen 1:27.)
Man was created first, then woman was created to be his helper. “…for indeed man was not created for the woman’s sake, but the woman for man’s sake.” (I Cor. 11:9) The Trinity can be used as a role model because within the Trinity there are three distinct roles. The planner – God the Father, the one who carried out the plans – God the Son, the one who empowers Christians – God the Spirit. Here is perfect harmony, no role confusion. Look up Jn. 9:4; 8:28,29; 14:26; 16:13,14; 17:4 and ask the Lord to lead you into His truth. In marriage, just as Christ glorified the Father by doing the Father’s “work,” we are to glorify our husbands by doing the husband’s “work.” Your role is to glorify your husband. You were created for him. Gen 3:16, Eph 5:22 – 24, 32.
“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her.” Christ actually died, sacrificed Himself for the sake of the church, as husbands sacrifice themselves for the sake of their wives. Further, “…husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies…nourishes and cherishes…” Eph 5:28,29,33.
Practically speaking, what are some ways a pastor’s wife may be the glory of her husband? Here are a few ideas I gleaned from the book:
Ask your husband: What are your goals for the week? How can I help you accomplish them? Is there anything I can do that would make it easier for you? Possibilities include – run errands for him, be available to help with projects, pray for him, make good suggestions and give him the freedom not to use your suggestions.
Consider your husband over children, parents, friends, job, Bible studies, etc.
Talk about him in a positive light to others. Do not slander at all, even if what you could say is true.
Make him breakfast to help him get off to a good start, take care in recording telephone messages, keep careful record of money spent to keep the budget in order.
Be warm and gracious to family, friends, and congregational members. Make your commitment to your husband obvious to all.
There are many other worthwhile suggestions on page 55 of The Excellent Wife.
NEEDS OF THE REAL WORLD
The Basis of The Wife’s Protection-Submission
Submission to our husbands is the way God intended it to be in the family. In the book of Genesis God created Adam. He created Eve as a helpmate because it was not good for man to be alone. Ephesians 5:22-24 says “Wives, be subject to your own husbands, as to the Lord, For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ also is the head of the church He Himself being the Savior of the body. But as the church is subject to Christ, so also the wives ought to be to their husbands in everything.” This is the order that God planned for marriage.
“Submission” in the Greek means to place in an orderly fashion under. This ranking of the wife under the husband’s authority was sovereignly chosen by God so that there will be order and harmony in the home. She has a different rank or position; she is not an inferior person. Christian wives need to see themselves as God sees them. We can see in Titus 2: 4-5 that Paul instructs the older women to train the younger women to love their husbands to be kind and being subject to their own husbands that the Word of God may not be dishonored. This is the heart of God for us wives.
Sometimes we don’t always feel like being submissive to our husbands. We can be submissive though by the grace of God and with a Godly motive. All of this is done for the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ. There is always joy in glorifying the Lord. Thus we are in obedience to God. When we are in obedience to God we receive a blessing.
If we have not been submissive at times we can ask the Lord to forgive us. I John 1:9 says: “If we confess our sins He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” It is as it says if we confess, He is faithful to forgive, and to cleanse us from all unrightousness.” So it is gone. It is wiped off and we can begin then to be gentle, tender and have gracious obedience towards our husbands in submission once again.
CHECK IT OUT
Book Review
LOVE IS A VERB – (“Stories of What Happens When Love Comes Alive”)
by Gary Chapman (from Bethany House Publishers)
by Gary Chapman (from Bethany House Publishers)
In the mug tree on my kitchen counter is a favorite which says “Let all you do be done in love” (I Corinthians 16:14). Perhaps I was led to read Love is a Verb because of the need to be often reminded of the above verse, for my “old nature” doesn’t always want to act or respond in love. I have also appreciated the concepts in Gary Chapman’s book The Five Love Languages, but in either case, I was attracted to this newer book which gives encouragement to never stop loving.
Included in this book are 40 different true stories about ordinary people who made the choice to love through the vast stresses and complexities of modern day human relationships. Any adult reader can “connect” with their challenges and relate to many of their personal situations. These examples express a “demonstrated” kind of love. This love needs to be evident in our marriages, to our families, our parishioners, our co-workers, friends, and even to those among us whom we may perceive as unlovable. Real and visible love can and does make a difference.
After each story the author highlights a key element that can help and inspire one to put love into action. Sometimes that action may mean just “being there” for the person we care about. At other times there are more tangible ways to show love. It’s not just about “Me,” for love is an investment of one’s self in another. “It’s not about who other people are, or how they treat us or what they do to make us value them. It begins with you, and it’s not primarily about what you say or feel. Instead, love is an action word; it’s a choice you have to make. Love is a verb.”
Six Little Words with the Power to Change Your Life
Living Proof Live with Beth Moore for Ministers Wives
How would you sum up your life in 6 words? That is the question Beth Moore asks as she shares with ministers wives in this digital download. Teaching from the book of Galatians Beth focuses on the unique challenges faced by wives whose husbands serve in ministry. Ministry is hard. If you have ever felt worn out and frustrated or even at a loss how to serve this series will be of great encouragement to you.
As Beth gives 6 aggravations in ministry she also provides 6 Biblical alternatives or responses. For example, aggravation number 2 is: Seek Their Approval, Become Their Slave. She asks the question, “Who is it that you need approval from?” When we look for approval from others it puts us in a love/hate relationship with them. We play into people’s vanity when we seek their approval. We also need to be careful to not allow a rebellious spirit to seek people’s disapproval. The Alternative is: Seek God’s Approval, Find Your Peace. As we develop and deepen our relationship with God, He will help us to focus on what He wants us to do and will show us where our energies should go. As Beth states, “Let your Savior tend to you!” Beth encourages women in ministry to reconnect with that first grace of Christ.
Beth also addresses the fact that the biggest problem for ministers’ wives is loneliness. Women were made for deep friendships. But, as another aggravation states: Work with People, Expect Titanic Problems. When we find ourselves getting short with people, getting cranky, it is time for refreshing! There are 3 dangers in this aggravation: competition, outright conflict and criticism. Learn to recognize the red flags. Remember, in every conflict our fight is not against flesh and blood, but evil powers and principalities. Every day we need to be sure to put on the “armor of God”. We are to choose to trust and let the Lord guide us in those friendships. Seek Him and His refreshing so that we may always be a blessing even in the difficult places.
One can find this download at the Lifeway Publishing website listed under downloads. It is reasonably priced and once purchased and downloaded to your computer it is yours to revisit again and again. The series is divided into two 60 minute sessions and one 30 minute session. Personally this teaching gave me valuable insight, encouragement and renewed my spirit. I can guarantee that you will need a box of tissues by the end. I pray her words will encourage you as they did me. As Beth states, “Remember, we serve the King!” How awesome is that?
HELPFUL HINTS FOR HOME
What’s The Tone of Your Home?
This month as I sat down to write some helpful hints for home, several ideas came into play. After sifting through thoughts ranging from recipes to refurbishing furniture, I kept coming back to the tone of the home. Our homes can be decorated, cleaned, and organized to Good Housekeeping standards, but if our homes lack love, all that beauty and effort is wasted.
One of my aunts has a picture in her kitchen that states, “If Momma ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy!” Even though the artwork featuring a mother hen getting after her chicks is humorous, it holds much serious truth. We’ve all had days where the atmosphere in our homes have gone from sweet to our, simply with the change in our attitudes. When my children and husband seem to be more on the cranky side than the positive, I’ve learned to stop and ask what tone I’m setting for the day in our home. I’m sad to say that more often than not, it’s when I’ve been less than patient, discontent, or simply grumpy. Our tone truly affects the tone of our family life and also those who we may be welcoming into our home for a visit, meal, or stay.
My hope for you and myself as pastors’ wives is that we will dedicate the first portion of our efforts to being in the presence of Jesus through time in the Word, in prayer, and in fellowship. Is there a time and place for enjoying selecting paint chips, color swatches, new recipes? Of course there is. But our first “assignment” is the care of our homes and families is to be in tune with our Creator so that the tone in our home reflects His love and care. When we take advantage of the perfect manual He has provided us with in the Bible, the fruits of those moments spent with Him, will be homes that reflect beauty, compassion, and grace. Those are “decorations” that never go out of style.
IDEAS THAT WORK
HEALTH for BODY (Physical) SOUL (Mind, Will, Emotions)
SPIRIT (Spiritual)
PROTECTION
PROTECTION
As pastors and pastors’ wives, we are in “front-line ministry”. It stands to reason we will experience attacks from the enemy. We can follow Jesus’ example and counter-attack Satan with scripture. You might find it helpful to daily read Psalm 91 – personalize it by inserting your name.
PSALM 91
_____dwells in the secret place of the Most High. _____shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
_____will say of the Lord, “He is _____’s refuge and _____’s fortress; _____’s God, in Him_____will trust.
Surely He shall deliver_____from the snare of the fowler and from the perilous pestilence.
He shall cover_____with His feathers, and under His wings_____shall take refuge; His truth shall be_____’s buckler.
_____shall not be afraid of the terror by night, nor of the arrow that flies by day,
Nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness, nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday.
A thousand may fall at_____’s side, and ten thousand at_____’s right hand; but it shall not come near_____.
Only with_____’s eyes shall_____look, and see the reward of the wicked.
Because_____has made the Lord, who is_____’s refuge, even the Most High,_____’s dwelling place.
No evil shall befall_____, nor shall any plague come near_____’s dwelling;
For He shall give His angels charge over_____, to keep_____in all_____’s ways.
In their hands they shall bear_____up, lest_____dash_____’s foot against a stone.
_____shall tread upon the lion and the cobra, the young lion and the serpent_____shall trample underfoot.
“Because_____has set_____’s love upon Me, therefore I will deliver_____; I will set _____on high, because_____has known My name.
_____shall call upon Me, and I will answer_____; I will be with_____in trouble; I will deliver_____and honor_____.
With long life I will satisfy_____, and show_____My salvation.”
Resource: “Warfare Prayer” Tract, Osterhus Publishing Company, 877-643-4229 or 763-537-9311, http://www.osterhuspub.com/ (“Christian Tracts”, “Keswick”, page 2), 100 tracts for $6.50, scriptural prayer to help you through the spiritual battle. “Most popular tract we sell!” says Osterhus employee.
HERE"S WHAT'S COOKING
Grilled Chicken Panini
Ingredients
1 (11 ounce) package Tyson® Grilled and Ready™ Fully Cooked Grilled Chicken Breast Strips
1/2 cup pesto sauce, prepared
8 slices Italian bread
4 slices provolone cheese
1/4 cup olive oil
Directions:
1. Spread one tablespoon of pesto onto one side of each bread slice. Divide chicken strips among 4 slices of bread. Place a slice of cheese on top of chicken. Top with remaining bread slices, pesto side down.
2. Brush the outer sides of each sandwich with olive oil.
3. Heat large skillet or griddle over medium. Grill sandwiches until browned on one side; turn and grill until brown on other side.
Apple Stuffed Chicken Breast
Ingredients
2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
1/2 cup chopped apple
2 tablespoons shredded Cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon Italian-style dried bread crumbs
1 tablespoon butter
1/4 cup dry white wine
1/4 cup water
1 tablespoon water
1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions
1. Combine apple, cheese, and bread crumbs. Set aside.
2. Flatten chicken breasts between sheets of waxed paper to 1/4 inch thickness. Divide apple mixture between chicken breasts, and roll up each breast. Secure with toothpicks.
3. Melt butter or margarine in a 7 inch skillet over medium heat. Brown stuffed chicken breasts. Add wine and 1/4 cup water. Cover. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until chicken is no longer pink.
4. Transfer chicken to a serving platter. Combine 1 tablespoon water and cornstarch; stir into juices in pan. Cook and stir until thickened. Pour gravy over chicken, and garnish with parsley. Serve.
**Recipes provided by allrecipes.com**
TOGETHER THROUGH PRAYER
Dear Father,
Thank you for Your Word that teaches us, convicts us, and guides us day by day. As we live out our lives being "suitable helpers" to our husbands, help us to remember and rejoice in the truth that You have given us the privilege of helping our husbands be caring and loving shepherds of their congregations. Show us how we can support, encourage, and assist them as they actively live out the call You have placed upon them as pastors, and we as their wives. In our roles as helpmeets, show us how to be just that - a helper who meets our husbands' needs.
In areas of conflict and difficult decisions, help us submit to our husbands "as unto You." When we share differing opinions than our husbands, help us to choose the right time, way, and words to express our thoughts. May our marriages be a reflection of respect and unity, even when we do not get our way in a situation. Help us to remember that Your ways are always best.
We thank You that we can always trust You every day, in every situation.Amen.
GETTING TO KNOW YOU
An Interview With Jane Emerson
Jane Emerson is the wife of Curt Emerson. Together they serve Peace Free Lutheran in Canal Winchester, Ohio. They have three children and eight grandchildren.
My first question to Jane was what ministry did she feel was hers in the church that they are serving? Jane replied, “My main ministry in this parish is my husband.” “He and I share a bond of daily reading the Word and praying together for specific needs as well as interceding for our church family.” “God continues to use Jane in the ministry of music but God has also opened doors to use her in teaching and training women.
The next question I asked Jane was “As you compare your first years as a pastor’s wife to now what would you share with our pastor’s wives that the Lord has taught you”? “Well, to spend the majority of my time praying and seeking God for His direction in my life and do less activities relying only on God’s approval and not man’s comments whether good or bad.” “It is important to understand that we answer to God not people.” She said. “To just be busy and try to impress is not spiritual you only wear yourself out!” “If you are allowing God to do the work no one should burn out.”
The next question I asked Jane was, “If you were going to encourage the pastor’s wives what would you encourage them with”? “To encourage each of you” she said, “I would say that God has made you unique.” “He has already equipped you with all you need to accomplish all He wants you to do.” “Remember, He does the work you are to be obedient and call upon Him, read His Word and allow Him to lead in your home and in your parish.”
I asked Jane to share a favorite Bible verse that meant a lot to her now. She said, “There are so many verses that God has opened up to me but I really love I John 1:17. “But IF we walk in the Light as He is in the Light, we have fellowship one with another and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from All sins.”
Thank you Jane for these encouraging words and may we be women seeking after God.
January 8, 2011
FOCUS
The Excellent Wife
There isn’t a one of us who doesn’t desire to become an Excellent Wife. For some it appears to come so easily. They seem to be the perfect example of the Excellent Wife. Maybe their personality type displays these excellent qualities easily with what seems to be no effort on their part. Then again, age may be the key and over time they have been tempered and they have indeed learned how to become an Excellent Wife. Truly it is a process of becoming. We do seek to “become” but we will never fully arrive at the “perfect” until we’re HOME!! You’re in safe company here (we haven’t arrived yet!) as we journey together in our understanding of what an Excellent Wife is. During the 2011 year we will discuss the Foundational Truths of the Excellent Wife and also the Faithful Commitments of the Excellent Wife. New topics concerning these areas will be posted six times a year (every two months). Please join us.
WORDS TO INSPIRE
THE EXCELLENT WIFE – WHO CAN FIND?
Based on the book “The Excellent Wife” by Martha Peace
Even a cursory look at the Proverbs 31 wife, brings to mind the question “but who can meet this standard?” Trusted, kind, fears the Lord, blessed by her children, careful, good to her husband, etc. these and more are the traits of an excellent wife. Let’s ask ourselves…are these the qualities I want in my life? Now, be honest… Or perhaps the question you’re asking is: Is it even possible to reflect these qualities? The answer is YES – maybe difficult to accept, but the answer is YES. Any Christian woman who knows the Lord personally and obeys Him can become a godly woman and an excellent wife. “His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His Own glory and EXCELLENCE.” (II Peter 1:3) God has broken the grip of sin in a woman who has truly committed her life to Him, and He has given her the supernatural power of the indwelling Holy Spirit to enable her to obey His Word and submit to His way and His will. (refer to John 14:16,17) Let us, each one of us, begin by humbly confessing that we have not been the wife that the Lord wants us to be and ask Him to teach us what we need to know so that our lives and our relationship with our husbands will glorify Him.
Let’s encourage ourselves as we begin this year - long topic “EXCELLENT WIFE” by regularly and faithfully praying that your marriage will glorify and please God. Be specific about sins, name weaknesses, confess, and ask God to change your weaknesses and your husband’s weaknesses into strengths. Ask the Lord to take the log out of your eye (Mt. 7:3-5). The question may arise, “How does God show us our sins?” By convicting us when we read His Word (Heb. 4:12) and by having someone tell you (Eph 5:25).
“having someone tell you….” That’s a tough one, isn’t it? The author calls it “mutual sanctification.” Just as God helps us as individuals become more like Christ, He also helps couples grow and mature and help each other become more like Christ. “If your brother sins, go and reprove him in private; if he listens to you, you have won your brother.” (Mt 8:15) “You who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness each one looking to yourself, lest you too be tempted.” (Gal. 6:1) Note that the reproof needs to be done privately, with gentleness, and with the motive of restoring the other person. If a husband or wife are unwilling to gently reprove one another, they may be more concerned about “the effect it could have on me” rather than on helping their spouse.
How then should we women respond to a husband’s reproof?
1. Be willing to consider whether the reproof could possible be valid?? J
2. Take time to think about the revelation.
3. Search the Scriptures to determine what the sin is and how to put it off. (Eph 4:22-24)
4. Ask your husband to give specific examples.
5. Confess your sin. (I Jn 1:9)
6. Stop doing the sin and start doing the right thing. (Heb. 12:11)
7. Do not justify or defend yourself.
8. Listen and learn from the reproof.
9. Consider the question, “What is God trying to teach me?”
Learn to see each other’s reproofs from God’s perspective and be grateful that your husband loves you so much that he wants to tell you his complaint instead of clamming up and becoming embittered. “Better is an open rebuke than love that is concealed.” Prov. 27:5 When a husband and wife love the Lord Jesus Christ, they will participate in and submit to the process of mutual sanctification. It helps each other become more like Christ so that each can glorify HIM more.
5. Confess your sin. (I Jn 1:9)
6. Stop doing the sin and start doing the right thing. (Heb. 12:11)
7. Do not justify or defend yourself.
8. Listen and learn from the reproof.
9. Consider the question, “What is God trying to teach me?”
Learn to see each other’s reproofs from God’s perspective and be grateful that your husband loves you so much that he wants to tell you his complaint instead of clamming up and becoming embittered. “Better is an open rebuke than love that is concealed.” Prov. 27:5 When a husband and wife love the Lord Jesus Christ, they will participate in and submit to the process of mutual sanctification. It helps each other become more like Christ so that each can glorify HIM more.
NEEDS OF THE REAL WORLD
Quietness of the Wife’s Spirit
My mother always said to me when I was young and first married, “Mary, a little bit of honey makes the medicine go down.” I knew she was right but my selfishness, differentness and self-rightousness would take over and I didn’t want to do what my mother suggested. She was suggesting that the honey is the Word of God and prayer. The best way to communicate to my husband in a biblical manner when conflict arose was in a Godly manner. I needed to find out what that Godly manner by using the Word of God and prayer as my guide. Unity is difficult because we all sin but it is one of the most important things to keep between a husband and wife.
My negative thoughts of: he is impossible, or it’s no use, or the problems are too big to be solved need to be changed into correct biblical thoughts. When these thoughts are turned to biblical thinking, then I can work through conflict. I need to be transformed by the renewing of my mind. (Romans 12:2) Instead my thoughts should be, “What can I do differently to make it easier for us to solve this conflict. My selfishness needed and still needs to be changed as it says in Philippians 2:3 says “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind let each of you regard one another as more important than himself.” Selfishness only leads to conflict in a marriage.
It is amazing how continuous wrong thoughts without biblical thoughts influence our emotions and they take over and make it almost impossible to resolve the conflict. Our natural heart wants its own way.
I need to learn how to respond when conflict arises. I need humility, gentleness, patience and forbearance. God gets the credit when obedience to His Word and prayer achieves and maintains unity and peace with my husband.
CHECK IT OUT
Book Review
Treasures of Encouragement - Women Helping Women in the Church
by Sharon W Betters
Treasures of Encouragement - Women Helping Women in the Church
by Sharon W Betters
During my husband's pastoral internship a dear godly woman shared with me this precious book on encouragement. Not only did my own heart need to be encouraged I was at a loss as to how to encourage others. As I read through the book statement after statement seemed to leap off the page to minister to my hurting heart. I found I wanted to underline or highlight passage after passage soaking up every word of encouragement to bathe my hurting heart. As Sharon states, Biblical encouragement is soul work.
Through events in her own life and those of other women, Sharon Betters shares how Christ has shown her what true Biblical encouragement can do to revive hope in hurting hearts. When we have Christ in us, we have the treasures of His encouragement at our fingertips. Each chapter opens with one or more true encouragement stories, an Encouragement Principle and six days of daily devotions. "Women who know Christ and the power of His resurrection realize that God does not leave us helpless in the face of difficulty. He miraculously transforms our meager offerings and uses even the simplest acts to bring about dramatic change. Although this book was written from the crucible of suffering, it is not about grief. It is about how God uses us--His children--to do soul work as we become His promise keepers. It is about the privilege of giving to others from the treasure chest of our salvation."
Encouragement Principle #5 - The directing force behind encouragement is God's Word. As the author states, " When we turn to Scripture, we enter the presence of God. And that is where we learn to face the life He has for us. We cheat our fellow believers if we neglect God's Word, for how can we minister in the name of Jesus if we don't know the power of that name in our own hearts? It is only through the knowledge of His Word and the power of His Spirit that we can become His promise keepers."
2 Corinthians 4:7 "But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us." How often I have failed to speak encouragement to someone because I felt inadequate to share. As Sharon explains, the truth is we are inadequate, we are but jars of clay. It is when we allow God to break apart our jars of clay that He can display the treasure of the Gospel. I am learning that the process shows His power and not my weaknesses.
This is a book you will not only treasure for the work it does in your own heart, you will want to share the message with other women in your church too. It is not a quick read but solid food for the soul. I am so thankful and praise God for the lovely sister in Christ who shared this book with me
HELPFUL HINTS FOR HOME
EMERGENCY HOSPITALITY
Do you find that some of your most ministry focused hospitality moments are unplanned? The doorbell rings and you see a church member, neighbor, or friend who is hoping youhave a moment to talk? Often, these stop by visits catch us by surprise. Because life in the parsonage, or in your own home, is many times marked by unscheduled, but divinelyappointed moments, it’s helpful to have an “Emergency Hospitality Plan.”
Unless you are extremely organized, it is difficult to have the whole house “visitor ready” 24/7. It’s helpful to remember that when people stop to see you it’s because they want tosee YOU, not necessarily take a tour of your whole home -although that can be fun too.
One way I’ve found to take off some of the pressure of the unknown, is to simply try andkeep one room (in our case - the front living room) reasonably free of clutter and dust. I also try and keep one simple box of crackers and/or cookies on hand for hungry guests. Knowing that I have either a bottle of yummy fruit juice, or a box of herbal tea in thecupboard, takes the panic of figuring out what to serve a friend in need.
Another helpful hint is to have a child-friendly box filled with toys, coloring books, crayons, for little guests who may be along with parents who stop by. Having something toentertain their hands, gives more time to dedicate to find out what’s on Mom’s heart and to hear how you can be of help to her.
What about when your husband calls saying that someone is in need of a place to stay forthe evening? Even if you don’t have a room dedicated to being your guestroom, you canhave a “room in a box” by having a comfortable air matress, sheets, blankets, and a pillowall stored together for use on short notice. Adding a set of towels to the linens saves evenmore last minute time.
Hopefully you can enjoy and come to see drop-in visitors as opportunties to exercisehospitatily and to consider your home an ER for those in need of the encouragement wecan offer in Jesus.
IDEAS THAT WORK
HEALTH for BODY (Physical) SOUL (Mind, Will, Emotions) SPIRIT (Spiritual)
LIVE ENZYMES
They are vital for digestion, nutrition, health and longevity. As newborns, we produce 100 times more enzymes than an elderly person. As we age, production decreases. Our liver manufactures enzymes as needed. We task our liver to do this when we eat too much cooked food with “dead” enzymes. This taxes our immune system because it over taxes our liver: the principle immune organ. Low production of enzymes in the body leads to poor nutrition, aging, disease and death. Two sources of enzymes we can use to improve those levels are eating raw or steamed foods with live enzymes and enzyme supplements.
Live enzymes are in raw foods – vegetables, fruits, nuts, sprouted nuts, sprouted grains and sprouted legumes. Digestive enzyme supplements contain live enzymes. Raw foods and supplements help improve poor digestion and the absorption of nutrients from the foods we eat.
Cooked or processed food over 118 degrees destroys the enzymes in the food. Cooking contributes to nutrient loss. When cooked foods are eaten, our bodies react as if it has an acute illness. Within 30 minutes of eating the cooked food, our white blood cell count increases dramatically. Pasteurization, sterilization, radiation, freezing and microwaving makes food enzymes useless or alters the food’s structure. Cooked food still can be eaten but reduce it to 1/3 of your diet.
Fiber is essential for proper elimination. By middle age many people have about 20 pounds of undigested food in their colon. If nothing is done about it, our bodies begin a self-poisoning process, which weakens the immune system. Fiber is found in raw foods or grains such as ground flax.
Our bodies make 300,000 million new cells every minute. The question we need to ask is, “What are our bodies making those cells from?” Answer: “The food we give it!”
Resolve: Let’s eat responsibly!
Resources: Food Enzymes by Tonita d’Raye and http://www.hacres.com/
HERE'S WHAT'S COOKING
Chicken Fajitas with Spice Rub – Disney Family Fun
Ingredients
1 ripe avocado, cut into chunks and tossed in 1 teaspoon of lime juice
Salsa
Sour cream
Fresh ciliantro, chopped
4 teaspoons ground cumin
4 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut in half
1 small red or yellow pepper, sliced
1 onion, sliced
2 teaspoons olive oil
4 8-inch flour tortillas
Instructions
1. Place your toppings (avocado, salsa, sour cream and cilantro leaves) in separate bowls and set them on your table.
2. Next, make the rub. Combine the cumin, chili powder, oregano, and salt in a shallow bowl. Lightly rub the spices into the chicken with your fingertips until the meat is coated on all sides. Heat your grill to medium. Grill the chicken on both sides, just until cooked through, about 8 minutes. Remove from the heat, slice thinly, and set it on a platter.
3. While the chicken is cooking, toss the pepper and onion in the olive oil. Set them on the grill, using a vegetable screen, if desired, and cook for 5 to 8 minutes, turning once. Remove from the heat and set on the platter with the chicken.
4. Place the tortillas on the grill for 5 to 7 seconds on each side, turning with tongs, until hot. Set out the grilled chicken, pepper, and onion with the toppings and tortillas. Let guests assemble and roll their own fajitas. Serves 4 to 6
Chop Chop Salad – Disney Family Fun
Ingredients
1 romaine lettuce heart
4 to 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked until crisp, cooled, and chopped
1/2 pint grape tomatoes, halved
2 carrots, peeled and thinly sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
1 English cucumber, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Salad Dressing (we suggest Ranch or Blue Cheese--see above)
Instructions
1. Chop the lettuce heart into 1- to 2-inch pieces. Combine it with the bacon, other vegetables, and nuts in a large bowl and toss the mixture well.
2. Keep the salad chilled until serving time. Then toss it again with enough dressing to lightly coat the vegetables, and season it with salt and pepper. Serves 6.
TOGETHER THROUGH PRAYER
Dear Heavenly Father,
May we boldly place our trust in You so that we may confidently live for You. Help us to remember your Word that tells us our beauty is not merely outward, "but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God." 1 Peter 3:4 When we are trusting in your sovereign will for our marriages, homes, friendships, and business endeavors, we may know that quietness of spirit, knowing that nothing touches us without your permission. When moments of panic and anxiety set in, remind us Lord, that you are our Father. Quiet our hearts. May our marriage relationships reflect that strong, peaceful confidence that can be found only in You. Amen.
May we boldly place our trust in You so that we may confidently live for You. Help us to remember your Word that tells us our beauty is not merely outward, "but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God." 1 Peter 3:4 When we are trusting in your sovereign will for our marriages, homes, friendships, and business endeavors, we may know that quietness of spirit, knowing that nothing touches us without your permission. When moments of panic and anxiety set in, remind us Lord, that you are our Father. Quiet our hearts. May our marriage relationships reflect that strong, peaceful confidence that can be found only in You. Amen.
November 8, 2010
FOCUS
Biblical Womanhood
What is the Legacy of Biblical womanhood? What is Biblical Womanhood? It is not surprising that the secular world is confused about the identity and calling of woman. But what can be distressing is the extent to which this has happened within the evangelical world. To understand this heritage ourselves enables us to pass it on to the next generation (a Titus 2 approach to relationships) During the 2010 year we would like to present a series of 5 Themes concerning the topic of Biblical Womanhood. (these are possibly not all inclusive concerning the subject BUT they do give “food for thought”) We may also conclude our series with thoughts on seeing Biblical womanhood “lived out “ in our churches. God Bless you in your pursuit of holding to a Biblical Womanhood perspective in a secular world. LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE!
WORDS TO INSPIRE
Older Women mentoring Younger Women
a covenantal approach
a covenantal approach
The past articles in this year’s series have dealt with what Biblical womanhood is and how it relates to us personally. Yes, how we grow in our relationship with the Lord is personal but it is not individualistic. This means that when we come into His family-the family of God- we are also related to his other children we are accepted by Him by His grace. He accepts us and forgives us and then that grace we receive is to be given to others. This is NOT a way of isolation and independence. We are our brothers and sister’s keepers. Women nurturing/mentoring women is simply one way we live this out It is NOT an option. The easiest way this is done is when it is crafted by the church and will teach God’s truth about womanhood. However, the Titus 2 mandate can’t just be a program in our church . It is to be the lifestyle that we live out daily. We , as women, are created to be a helper, life-givers, and supporting pillars. These are concepts that have practical implications for the women’s ministry in a local church. And it probably will take some programming in the church to start this. Ask yourself these tough questions: How is your women’s ministry enabling your church to obey Titus 2;3-5? What opportunities are women provided to develop nurturing relationships with one another? In what settings are girls and teens being taught the principles of biblical womanhood? May God give us grace and wisdom to develop women’s ministries in our local churches that teach His daughters the TRUTH about biblical womanhood and equip them to be life-giving. supporting, pillars for the glory or God and the advancement of His kingdom.
NEEDS OF THE REAL WORLD
A Spiritual-Mothering Ministry
A Spiritual-Mothering Ministry. What is that you ask? First, when we think of a mother we think of someone who is nurturing her children spiritually, emotionally and physically. Even as the children grow the nurturing process never seems to stop. A Spiritual-Mothering Ministry is one of that same kind. If you are in a mentoring program in your church or if you are mentoring on your own that nurturing goes on for however long the two women are together. Sometimes one may move away but sometimes that spiritual-mothering stays even when there is distance in miles. It may be over the phone, e-mail or letters. A Spiritual mother takes her mothering very serious with the Lord. She will follow what the Bible teaches. She prays over the needs of her children and tries to meet those needs whenever she can. A Spiritual Mothering Mentor will follow the same also for the woman/women she is mentoring. First of all she knows and loves Jesus and believes that He died for all of her sins. Secondly she lives the life of a spiritual woman following what the Bible teaches and teaches it to the woman she is mentoring. Will she fail, yes, but she knows that she must always be in a right relationship with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Thirdly she will pray that the Holy Spirit will give her insight into the woman’s life that she is mentoring. The Holy Spirit can be her guide for the woman’s emotional and physical needs also. She takes the growth very serious in the life of the woman she is mentoring. She watches and prays for that woman. She encourages. She loves, helps and holds her whenever the need arises. She is lead by the Spirit to help be a deliverer of that need even though the woman has not expressed her need. When you think of a mother and all that she does for her children spiritually, emotionally and physically you can put all of those three together to be a Spiritual Mother and mentor.
CHECK IT OUT
The Table Experience by Devi Titus
Has the pace of life got you and your loved ones running in too many directions? Are you looking for deeper, more meaningful relationships even with the ones you love the most?
The Table Experience will help you transform home to a place of peace, a place where love lives, and where relationships thrive and flourish. The author of this book has effectively merged academic research with historical biblical research to reveal why eating at the table makes such a difference in relationships. Her insights and practical applications will inspire your creativity. Enjoy reading and learning from this helpful book . Let the legacy of your table be something worth passing on to future generations!
HELPFUL HINTS FOR HOME
Sensing The Season
The five senses - remember learning about them in grade school? Did you do the blindfold taste test experiments? Put your hand in a bag and guess the object enclosed by just using your sense of touch? Somewhere along the way, we perhaps lose some of the wonder of the gifts God has given us through touch, sight, sound, taste, and scent. This season of all seasons, let's rediscover the use of all fives senses, as we prepare our homes for celebrating Christ's Birth!
Years ago I read a book, now out of print, that beautifully presented ideas of how to make one's home an all-around sense-filled picture of beauty. The author's main message was to make all of our holiday decorating efforts point to Christ. and to show the hope and light He is in our lives. I'd like to share some of the inspiration that book ignited in me so long ago by sharing the following ideas:
Sight - this usually impacts us first, doesn't it? Lights brightening up both the exterior and interior of our earthly homes, reminiscent of the star that lit the night sky the eve of our Savior's birth. Trees laden with precious ornaments, table linens used year after year, Christmas mugs given to us by special people - all bring back cherished Christmas memories just by their sight. Photos displayed of past Christmases can also be wonderful visual reminders of previous celebrations.
Sound - of course Christmas music brings us right to the heart of the season - the birthday of our King! Each year I try to add one new Christmas CD to my collection. It has become quite eclectic, but each selection helps me celebrate the Reason we have this Season! How about bells on your doorknob to herald the entrance of family and friends? And there is the blessed sound of silence as we make sure to spend quiet time with Jesus, contemplating His coming to earth for you and me.
Touch - a hug given and received - a wonderful Christmas feel. The comfort of your favorite cozy sweater, a soft throw on your sofa used just during this season, the warmth of a fire. Touch, it's a gift that's free! To people in your life who spend much time alone, or who are far from family, a Christmas hug can be a treasured gift.
Scents - we remember them more than we realize. The luscious smells of sugar cookies baking in the oven can quickly bring back memories of visits to Grandma's house. The scent of freshly cut pine trees brings us back to Christmases long since passed. Create new memories, and re-live old ones, through the gift of scent. Do you have a favorite candle you use this time of year? How about cutting up some orange slices, a stick of cinnamon, a few cloves, all set to simmer in some water on your stove?
Taste - so many to choose from! The enjoying of traditional foods and tasty treats bind us together as families. Our Christmas meals are a fusion of Norwegian, Brazilian, and Korean foods. Not everyone's idea of what Christmas menus consist of, but for us it holds a world of meaning. What are your family's favorite Christmas foods? Keep the traditional, and try adding a new taste or two through a new side dish, dessert, or even a new flavor of cocoa or tea.
Here are some websites/blogs I hope you find helpful as you prepare to celebrate the first coming of the King of Kings. Have a SENSATIONAL CHRISTMAS everyone!
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2329186/christmas_decoration_for_all_five_senses.html?cat=74http://www.eduguide.org/library/viewarticle/1125/http://www.suite101.com/content/holiday-decorating-tips-a174687
IDEAS THAT WORK
HEALTH for BODY (Physical) SOUL (Mind, Will, Emotions) SPIRIT (Spiritual)
STOP STRESS BEFORE IT BEGINS
Since stress is the top reason for many diseases, we need to address it.
Philippians 4:6-9 provides a meditational list: true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, admirable, virtuous/praise worthy.
Before letting something into your mind, ask these questions?
True = Is this true?
Honorable = Does this honor God?
Just = Is this morally right or wrong?
Pure = Will this purify or contaminate my soul?
Lovely = Will this renew or refresh me?
Admirable = Will I be able to recommend this to someone who looks up to me?
Virtuous and/or Praise Worthy = Will I be more motivated or less motivated to follow after Christ after that DVD, video game, computer website, book, magazine, music, motivational speaker, etc.?
God blends His living, powerful Word with the Holy Spirit’s help so we can then apply it to our lives. He wants to protect us but we need to keep bad things out of our minds and put good things into our minds – especially His Word!
STOP! Being conformed to this world!
START! Pondering and dwelling on the things of God!
Things of This World = DEATH!
Things of God = LIFE AND PEACE!
WORD FOCUS
Our time with Jesus is vital to our spiritual life and physical health! There is a different between knowing God as our Savior and knowing Him as our Lord. Lord means He’s the boss.
Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal His will through the following verses: John 14:23; John 6:66; James 4:7,8; 2 Corinthians 3:14-18; James 4:17; John 8:31-32; James 1:22-25; Psalm 1:2-3; Deuteronomy 4:30-31; Deuteronomy 30:19-20; Psalm 94:12-15; Matthew 7:21-24; Joshua 1:7-9.
Consider journaling. Answer these questions regarding passages: What does it say? What does it mean? How can I apply it? The Holy Spirit will help us to understand so we can apply His knowledge.
Let’s MEDITATE! = Pondering by talking to oneself.
Resources: “Less Stress” CDs
www.store.livingontheedge.org/store/product/238
A Time Well Spent with Jesus Notes, loriwillard@gmail.com
Request a copy.
HERE'S WHAT'S COOKING
BBQ Meat Loaf by Pampered Chef
Ingredients:
1 ½ pounds lean (90%) ground beef
¾ cup quick or old fashioned oats
½ cup finally chopped green bell pepper
½ cup finely chopped onion
½ cup barbecue sauce, divided
1 egg
1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Combine ground beef, oats, bell pepper, onion, 1/4 cup barbecue sauce, egg, thyme, salt and black pepper in Bowl; mix lightly but thoroughly.
2. Shape meat mixture into loaf in Loaf Pan. Insert Digital Thermometer into center of meat loaf. Bake 50 minutes.
3. Spread remaining 1/4 cup barbecue sauce over meat loaf. Bake an additional 10 minutes or until meat is no longer pink in center of meat loaf and internal temperature reaches 160°F using Digital Thermometer. Remove from oven. Let stand 10 minutes before slicing.
Yield: 6 servings Nutrients per serving: Calories 280, Fat 13 g, Sodium 660 mg, Fiber 2 g
Quick Fudgy Brownies by Pampered Chef
Ingredients:
½ cup (125 ml) pecan halves
¾ cup (175 ml) butter (1 ½ sticks)
4 oz. (125 g) unsweetened chocolate for baking
¾ cup (175 ml) all purpose flour
1 ½ tsp. (7ml) baking powder
¼ tsp. (1ml) salt
1 ½ cups (375 ml) sugar
3 eggs
1 tsp (5ml) vanilla
2 bars (2 oz/60 g each) cholocate-covered caramel peanut candy (3/4
cup/175 ml coarsely chopped)
Vanilla ice cream (optional)
Directions:
1. Place pecans into Square Baker. Microwave on HIGH 2-3 minutes or until fragrant, stirring every 30 seconds. Set pecans aside in (1-cup/250-mL) Bowl. Cut butter and chocolate into pieces using Knife; place into small Bowl. Microwave on HIGH 1-2 minutes or until melted and smooth, stirring every 30 seconds. Sift flour, baking powder and salt into (2-qt./2-L) Mixing Bowl using (7-in./18-cm) Strainer.
2. Combine sugar, eggs and vanilla in Bowl. Whisk using Whisk. Slowly add chocolate mixture to egg mixture, whisking constantly until smooth. Fold in flour mixture until incorporated using spatula.
3. Pour batter into baker. Microwave on HIGH 5-7 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean and edges are firm. Meanwhile, coarsely chop pecans using a Food Chopper. Cut candy bars into 1/4-in. (6-mm) pieces. Top brownies with pecans and candy pieces. Let stand 10 minutes. Serve with ice cream, if desired.
Yield: 9 servingsNutrients per serving: Calories 500, Total Fat 31 g, Saturated Fat 16 g, Cholesterol 115 mg, Carbohydrate 54 g, Protein 7 g, Sodium 310 mg, Fiber 3 gCook's
Tips: Any candy bar can be substituted for the chocolate-covered caramel-peanut candy bars, if desired.
For best results, use a microwave oven with a built-in turntable.
TOGETHER THROUGH PRAYER
Dear Father,
May we quiet our hearts this busy time of year to remember and celebrate only You. The lists, programs and plays, shopping, and cooking, often clutter our minds and hearts. We get so wrapped up in getting ready to celebrate Your birth, that we forget that it's not about what we do, but about what You did. You humbled yourself and came to earth in the form of a little babe. Thank you for the indescribable gift of Your Son, given to us freely so that we may be truly free. May we continually celebrate the gift of You in our lives and live out our gratitude that the world may know the hope and freedom You alone can give. Amen.
GETTING TO KNOW YOU
An Interview With
Faith Nelson
Faith Nelson
Faith Nelson is the wife of Pastor Eldon Nelson. She has four children and six grandchildren. As Faith looks back over the years that she was in churches and living in Minneapolis while her husband served as Home Mission director she recalls blessings, encouragements and the Lord’s leading in her life. When I asked Faith what she was involved in for ministry she promptly stated, “I mainly was caring for my family.” “Sometimes it is all you get done.” “I found this to be true especially with a handicapped child.” I allowed the Lord to use me wherever needed in ministry.” “I didn’t come with my own agenda into a church.” Later on Faith was involved in music, children and women’s ministries. Later God opened the doors to allow her to have a day care in her home. She was able to touch a lot of children’s lives and her life was an open book to the parents.
If Faith were to encourage us it would be to say to allow the Lord to work in your life and allow Him to focus on our spiritual growth. She said, “I experienced a tremendous amount of growth in my spiritual walk having a handicapped child.” “He still is working in my life but that time was a special time for my spiritual walk with the Lord.” I noted that we should use those times to let the Lord stretch us and allow the growth to come from Him. “Yes, she said, “Spend quality and quantity time in the Word of God.” Another encouragement would be to allow our husbands to lead in the ministry and God will speak through our husbands. “Support your husband at all times,” She said. “Be submissive to our husbands even in the difficult times too” she said. Another encouragement that she had for us is that “we would be transparent to the Lord and honest and then that will allow us to be transparent to our children, husband and the people we come in contact with.” “Let the light of the Lord shine in us to glorify God.” Another encouragement would be to make our family and home life important. “Orchestrate time that you can develop good and enduring relationships.”
Romans 15:13 is Faith’s favorite Bible verse. May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace, as you trust in Him so that you overflow with hope through the power of the Holy Spirit. During a difficult time in her life she looked up all the verses on hope and this one became her favorite. “We can overflow with hope from the joy and peace that He give us.”
“Always be sensitive to the Lord’s working in your life and to the needs of others. “ I find that when I am focused on others then I am not so focused on myself.” “Today many are seeking for hope.” “We live in a hopeless secular world today.
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