All the Days of Her Life

Proverbs 31:10-12
Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies....
She will do him [her husband] good and not evil all the days of her life.

Once a woman marries, she chooses to love, cherish, give herself to, and grow in intimacy with only one man for the rest of her life. With her vows and covenant before God, she promises to forsake all other men and promises to be faithful to her husband until death parts them. These are obvious assumptions regarding marriage, but the question is---why wait to begin loving that one man until he comes into your life, puts a ring on your finger, or marries you?

Verse 12 in Proverbs 31 has always stood out to me. A virtuous woman will seek to do her husband good "all the days of her life." We don't read "until she gets married" or "once he asks her to be his." Instead, the virtuous woman will do her husband good all her days, which well includes the days before her prince comes into her life. It was because of this verse that I realized faithfulness to my future groom did not begin on my wedding day but long before I met him.

If we are to marry, God has a special man picked out just for us to spend the rest of our lives with. Because God never intended for us to use our single years to have intimate opposite sex relationships until the right one comes, we should not wait to be faithful to our future mates. Instead we should prepare being virtuous wives by striving to do our future husbands good long before he comes into our lives.

How can I do my future husband good now?

There are several things you can be doing now for your future husband, which I call the four P's. :) You can be preserving, preparing, praying, and patiently waiting for him.

Preserve yourself for him. One of the best things you can do for your future husband is to love him by saving yourself for him. You can do this by dressing modestly, guarding your affections, and saving all physical intimacy for your future marriage.

Prepare for him. Prepare for a future, Christ-centered marriage by training to be a godly woman, growing in character, learning to run a home, and perhaps even saving some special items in a hope chest.

Pray for him. You can pray for the man God has for you long before you meet him. This is something that will greatly bless him and will add much "good" to his life now and in the future.

Patiently wait for him. God's way and timing is perfect. Determine that until God brings that special man in your life, you are going to patiently wait for him by being faithful, waiting on God's timing, and keeping your focus on loving and serving Christ.


The benefits for doing your husband good long before you meet him are great. Not only will you have his full trust (Proverbs 31:11), but you will also have so much to give him once you join your life to his. It may be difficult at times to be considerate of a man you may have never met, but once the day comes that you give yourself fully to him and you walk down the aisle to meet him on your wedding day, you will have no regrets and your groom will be so grateful. God will indeed bless you. So don't wait until you have a wedding dress or a ring on your finger to begin honoring your future husband. Start doing him good by loving and being considerate of him right now. This is a gift that will truly one day bless his heart.

Refreshing Reads for 2010

Looking for a good book to read in 2010? Well, I have many to recommend to you! I read some of the most inspiring books in 2009 and hopefully after getting a taste of some of them, it will spur you to read them as well :) Enjoy! (BTW: these are in no particular order in case you are wondering)

1. Set A-Part Femininity by Leslie Ludy

This is one of the most inspiring and challenging books to godliness I've ever read. This book is a radical call to living a counterculture lifestyle for the glory of God. It is a fresh vision of God's amazing purpose for our lives as young women and I think every female should read this book.


2. Womanly Dominion by Mark Chanski

This is one of the best books I've ever read. Centering on the subject of women's roles and duties according to God, it is great encouragement to our high calling to wife and motherhood. I cheered and verbally praised God while turning through each page. It was so straight-forward and so liberating! Instead of desiring something we were not created to be or do, Chanski encourages and inspires women to "play their position" with all their might and with a desire to "win it" for the glory of God." If we as women would just do this and whole-heartily embrace our job, we'd be so fulfilled and there would be so much to accomplish for God. I loved the perspective of Chanski to "get in there and do what you're supposed to do with all you've got!" This book is so precious to me because it's a subject that is dear to my heart. I thank the Lord for this publication.


3. Lady In Waiting by Jackie Kendall

This is a great book and one of my tops. It focuses on what we as ladies should be doing in our unmarried years by focusing on developing certain character qualities (which are based on the Biblical character of Ruth). This book is a must-read for all young ladies.


4. A Man Worth Waiting For: How to Avoid a Bozo by Jackie Kendall

This book is a sequel to A Lady In Waiting and is a worth reading if you are unmarried. Jackie shows us throughout the book detailed descriptions of a man we should be waiting for--a Boaz (from the Biblical hero from the book of Ruth), and the one we should avoid---the Bozos. It's also a reminder of what we should be striving to become if we want a have a Boaz.


5. Beautiful in God's Eyes by Elizabeth George

Another top read of mine! A beautiful book exploring the joyous outlook, feminine grace, and strength of character of the Proverbs 31 woman and how we can be one too. It's informative, inspiring, and very practical.


6. Improving Your Serve by Charles Swindoll

I, Me, Mine, Myself---it's the monument of self, and it's what most people spend the majority of their lives building. This book is about not being a getter, but a giver----not a superstar, but a servant. Its message is counter-culture to what we're used to, but the very heart is focusing on what God calls the greatest, and that is being a servant. If you read this, make sure you have a highlighter ready because there's lots to think about and remember :)


7. Crazy Love by Francis Chan

From the back of the book: "Does something deep inside your heart long to break free from the status quo? Are you hungry for an authentic faith that addresses the problems of our world with tangible, even radical, solutions? God is calling you to a passionate love relationship with Himself. Because the answer to religious complacency isn't working harder at a list of do's and don'ts----it's falling in love with God. And once you encounter His love....you'll never be the same."

-All I have to say: this book will wake you up to real Christian living. It's so worth the read.


8. 20 and Counting by Michelle and JimBob Duggar

I loved this book! It gave me a deeper appreciation for the Duggar family (even though I had much respect for them before I read it!). I loved reading about their history and the behind-the-scenes details of their lives. It was also full of special resources, tips, recipes, and other things (reading about their methods of child discipline and training was very interesting!). Most of all, I appreciated the Duggar's heart to be used for the Lord for His glory. Their testimony really blessed me :)


9. Christian Modesty and the Undressing of America by Jeff Pollard

After reading this book you'll never look at modesty the same again. It's also very eye-opening as it reveals the progressive acceptance of public nakedness relating to the bathing suit industry. Really recommend this!


10. Mother by Kathleen Norris

This is a novel which portrays the importance of motherhood. It touched me in a special way and I couldn't help to tear up towards the ending. I hope to pass this book down to my own children one day.


11. A Thankful Heart by Carole Lewis

Centered on the verse, 1 Thess. 5:18, this book could sincerely change your life. Carole shows us how we can practically apply this verse to our life using several examples from her own. This book is so worth the read and I promise it will bless you greatly if you do.


12. What He Must Be If He Wants to Marry My Daughter by Voddie Baucham

Another wonderful book about what we should be looking for in a young man. Another must read for daughters and parents alike!


13. How to Become a Straight A Student by Cal Newport

This book is a lifesaver! I know without a doubt that it has saved me from much pain and meaningless hours of unprofitable study time at school. My plan for college was to just jump on the boat of tradition of how the normal student studies and prepares for class. I am so thankful that Cal has showed us a better, more effective way!! His book makes sense and is very practical. I love how he gives examples of how students can apply step by step the ideas he presents. This is an excellent book and mandatory for all college students.


14. Fireproof: the novel by Eric Wilson

Though I've seen the movie and knew the message of the plot, something about the novel made the truths in the story more real and special to me. I was spurred on to the meaning of true love and really enjoyed going behind the scenes of the characters from the movie. I really enjoyed it and learned a lot of Biblical truths too.


15. Biography of Watchman Nee

This is one of my favorite and one of the best biographies I have ever read. Watchman's testimony inspired my heart deeply. My Mom has always encouraged me to read it and I finally did last year and I'm so glad I did. If you wish to be inspired to a deeper faith and love for Christ, this is the book to read.



16. One Thing You Can't Do In Heaven by Mark Cahill

I can't tell you what an inspiration this book was! This message on witnessing is full of encouragement and many stories. Mark Cahill is such a wonderful example of one who has given his life completely to God and the work of the gospel. His book is full of practical tips on sharing the gospel if you don't know where to start, and great real-life stories of inspiration if you need a boost to do it more. Either way, you will not be sorry if you read this book.

The Beauty of the Unmarried Years

Singleness..it's a period everyone must go through. Some think it's dreadful. Others embrace it for selfish pursuits. Whatever the perspective, the way we use it is crucial because it will determine whether the ride is smooth, bumpy, profitable, or wasteful. We must evaluate ourselves and ask: how are we spending it?

Singleness can truly be a lovely time of one's life. Contrary to the world's opinion that you should always have a guy on your arm or that being single is a curse, the unmarried years can be full of wonderful opportunities. This is not the time to waste it on frivolous things or wait idly for Prince Charming. There's so many things to accomplish!

As an unmarried young lady, I hope you see what an incredible chance you have to focus all your time and energies on valuable things---pursuits that will strengthen you as a Christian and prepare you for life ahead. This time of singleness is the prime period to grow, mature, learn and serve. It is also the incredible season to seek the Lord with your whole heart. We must use them wisely.

I don't think many young ladies realize the value of their youth and their years before marriage. For a majority of singles it is primarily a time for pursing relationships with guys, having fun, hanging out with friends, and trying to fit in. Of course, there's nothing wrong with enjoying life or friendships, but when we make this our focus and we spend a majority of our time doing so, we are wasting this season on things that are not most important.

I am extremely grateful for the way my parents have helped me invest my growing up years. Yes, they were overflowing with enjoyable events, wonderful friendships and precious memories, but it was not the whole. It was also full of many lessons, maturing in many ways, learning important skills and more.

My parents did not allow me to date as I was growing up. Because I was homeschooled and also had my own convictions, this wasn't really a problem or a struggle, but I didn't realize at the time what a blessing this actually was! Because I wasn't tangled into boys or dating relationships, I was free to focus on beneficial things. Instead my priorities were on my spiritual growth and deepening my walk with the the Lord, maturing as a young lady, developing character traits, making friendships of all ages, learning new skills, and developing necessary responsibilities required for life and adulthood. I greatly recognize what a privilege it has been to use my growing up years in this way. While they haven't been perfect, I am thankful for the wisdom of my parents to steer me in a good direction. If I had done the opposite I would have missed so many opportunities and lessons.

I share this with you because I want to let you know that you don't have to spend your teenage or single years as our society encourages us . These years before marriage are some of the most valuable ones you'll ever have. We must make the most of them.

1 Corinthians 11:13
There is a difference between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman cares about the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit. But she who is married cares about the things of the world, how she may please her husband.

So, no matter what your age, what are some practical things we should be doing right now?


1) Mature/Emerse yourself in your walk with Christ

This is by far the best thing you could ever do with your years before marriage. Use this time to learn to love God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength. Because the potential for serving the Lord and doing much for the kingdom of God are great and endless, you should embrace this opportunity. There will never be a time like this again for you to put all your focus on God and His work. Emerse yourself in God's presence, His Word, and ministry for Him. Give Him your undivided heart. This is the time to really fall in love with Him and to develop your relationship with Him in a very special way.

2) Prepare for a future husband

Your single years are the time to be preparing for marriage (if it's God's plan for your life). I have read countless number of testimonies from women who said they wish they prepared for the role of wife, mother, and homemaker. Take advantage of this time by developing essential homemaking skills that you will need not only in marriage but in life itself which include: cooking, cleaning, organizing, laundry, sewing, etc. Too many teens are unskilled in these areas that they don't know where to begin once they're married or out on their own!

What about the qualities you'll need as a mother such as training, discipling, loving and raising children? You can begin practicing these.

It's also important to understand your future role of being a helper to your husband, as this is one reason God created you if you marry (Gen. 2:18). Learn to be submissive to your parents and to serve those around you. Most of all I would say the best practice to being a wife is building character which leads to the next point....


3) Grow in character

Whether you marry or not, growing in character is one of the most important things you can do during your period of singleness. Apart of God's plan for you as a Christian is to grow more like Jesus Christ (2 Cor. 3:18). God desires you to bear fruit and grow more and more into His Son's image. Doing this is one of the ways we glorify God while we are on earth.

Growing in character is also essential for a future Christ-honoring marriage. Who you are right now is who you'll be when you're married. Are you preparing to be a godly wife? Are you striving to develop important character qualities that are critical for life and marriage such as:

-Humility (Jam. 4:6)
-A meek and quiet spirit (1 Pet. 3:4)
-A submissive spirit (Eph. 5:22)
-Patience (Jam. 5:8)
-Thankfulness (1 Thess. 5:18)
-Trustworthiness (Prov. 31:11)
-Faithfulness (1 Tim. 3:11; Prov. 31:11)
-Forgiveness (Matt. 6:14)
-Selflessness (Luke 6:38)
-A servant's heart (Matt. 23:11; Matt. 25:40)
-A non-complaining spirit (Prov. 25:24)
-And many more?

This is the time to begin bearing fruit and becoming more like Christ. Don't wait!


4) Learn to be content

Contentment is one of the most beautiful parts of a fulfilling Christian life. Paul says that godliness with contentment is great gain (1 Timothy 6:6). No matter where life leads you--to the marriage altar, to the mission field, or a whole life of singleness--learning to be content will only forever benefit you and bring glory to God. Christ tells us to be content (1 Tim. 6:8; Heb. 13:5) so it is no question whether we should strive for it or not. But learning to do so now, while you are yet maturing or still unmarried, is the greatest season to do so. Strive to be grateful for all you have and not to complain. It can be difficult but if you're practicing now you will be more prepared for whatever God has for you ahead.


5) Learn to serve others

Part of the process of becoming like Christ is learning to serve others as He did. It certainly doesn't come naturally but it must be practiced. Before you are married you have the best opportunity to put all your energies into freely serving others. It's also a great time to learn and practice putting others before yourself including your family, roommates, friends, co-workers, people in your church, or anyone He brings your way. Unlike the culture's ideal that you are selfish, self-centered, and looking out for only yourself----use it to impact Christ's kingdom! Serve the Lord by serving others and practicing humility. It will be a huge blessing to your life whether you marry one day or not. Don't forget that God calls servants the greatest (Matt. 23:11) and whomever you serve you are ultimately serving Jesus Christ Himself (Matt. 25:40).

~*~

Now that I have shared five fundamental examples of ways you can be investing your unmarried years, my question is: how are you doing? I am also asking myself as I occasionally lose focus and can always make improvements. Are you learning to love God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength? Are you preparing to possibly be a godly wife to a man one day? Are you developing essential character qualities, spiritual disciplines, and homemaking skills? Are you striving to learn to be content and serve those around you? With all of this and more there is so much potential!

As we purpose to make investments in things that are truly meaningful, we will continue to bear and reap many blessings. And once we have a ring on our finger, hopefully we will be able to look back on our unmarried years not in regret but joy. There's so many ways to be serving God now and reaching out to other people. Lets use this time of singleness with wisdom and get busy for the glory of God!

Modesty is Part of Your Ministry

While modesty is not popular (or favored) today, there are many reasons ladies of God must cover up. Several obvious ones would be that we are commanded by God in Scripture (1 Tim. 2:9), we don't want to encourage adultery in fellow males (Matt. 5:28), we have to be different from the world (Rom. 12:2), and so forth. Yet there's a much more pressing reason why modesty is so serious.

While reading Amy Carmichael's biography, one story in her ministry spoke volumes to me. While Amy was on her first venture to witness to the people of Japan, she was offered to wear a kimono instead of her English style of dress but she declined because of comfort reasons. When she arrived to an elderly lady's home and began to tell her of Jesus and what He had done for her, the woman listened intently and Amy said that she was ever close to receiving Christ as her Savior. Then all of the sudden the lady took notice of Amy's English fur gloves...something the native had never seen before. As the lady started touching them and asking questions, Amy knew at that moment she had lost her. She determined to never wear her English attire while doing mission work again.

This story stood out to me because it reminded me of the power of distraction, because in the same way, immodesty is a distraction and we lose the power of the gospel when we dress in a revealing way. When we emphasize or display our feminine assets, we put people's eyes, thoughts, and attention on ourself instead of Christ. How can a man think on eternal things when we are distracting him with our body parts? And how can we let our lights shine for the glory of God when we are drawing all eyes to our skin and our sense of style?

If we get to the root of immodesty, we would simply find that it is purely selfish. It's wearing what I want to wear; it's getting everyone to notice me; it's making me feel good; it's broadcasting my good looks; it's getting what I desire (i.e. attention or a man)...These are not to be the intentions of a woman of God. You have been saved by the blood of Christ and are to now to glorify God with your body (1 Cor. 6:20). How can this be done in provocative clothing?

It grieves me because too many precious girls who proclaim to love God are not obeying His commandments (John 14:15). They want to do great things for the Lord but don't realize that they must begin with obediently doing as He says. If you truly desire to minister to others for the glory of Christ, may I suggest starting with modesty? It truly is a ministry. Every time you deny to wear that "cute" yet revealing blouse, you are helping your brothers not to stumble into sin and are therefore aiding their walk with God. Every time you cover up and dress in a feminine style, you are honoring your Creator by delighting in the way He made you and are being an example. And every time you decide to not to dress like the world in their skimpy trends, you are being a light for Christ and are therefore giving Him the glory (Mat. 5:16).

Whether we are verbally spreading the gospel or not, we represent the Lord and are walking examples of the gospel on a daily basis. Your clothes send a message. Let me ask you, dear sisters-in-Christ, is that message one that tributes to the gospel or your selfish desires? Is it one that points to Christ or to yourself? While you should delight in being a female, God did not create you to display your feminine secrets to all passers-by. We are not to be a looking glass to our own charms but rather a reflection of what Christ has done. When you cover up with a desire to please your Lord, you are showing a dark world the change God has so graciously worked in your heart (2 Cor. 5:17).

Our life should be a ministry, and as we share the gospel with all creatures (Mark 16:15) modesty must be apart of that ministry. As we choose to cover up, we will be a greater testimony for a hurting world and will honor our Lord as we seek to prevent distracting others from the gospel.

When we choose our clothes for the day, may we dress in such a way that when people see us they see not ourself, but the One who saved our soul and is changing us to become more and more like Him (2 Cor. 3:18).

Children are Treasures

A couple in our homeschool group has given birth to beautiful twins and I recently went to see them. It was such a privilege to be able to hold and cuddle the precious bundles. I love babies so much!

One was lying in her crib and while we peered over to admire her, I asked the father what it was like having twins. I expected an answer such as "it's great but alot of work," or "we love it but they keep us busy," but his answer surprised and touched me all at the same time. He smiled and kindly and sincerely responded, "They're a blessing. We'd love to have a dozen more."

Wow.

This couple already has four children but would delight to add more little hands and voices to their family. They realize what's truly valuable. We really need more men (and women!) like this who view babies as blessings, not burdens.

My family loves the show on TLC called 18 Kids and Counting. It's a documentary of a christian homeschooling family with 18 children. What stands out to me about this show are the two facts that children are blessings and God provides. I can't imagine the expenses for a household of 20, but God is faithful to provide for them.

When God says children are blessings, He means it! (Ps. 127:3) This is heartbreaking in a society that views children as strains. So many refuse this "gift" from the Lord that He so kindly wants to give us.

Some couples would like more but just don't see it possible financially. To this I ask-- do we really believe God's Word? If God says children are blessings do you think He means it and will provide? Absolutely! The Duggard family is proof of this. They have 18 children yet they are living debt free. As this couple has chosen to joyfully accept as many blessings as the Lord sees fit, He has and continues to faithfully take care of them.

Children are apart of God's grace to us. If anyone should be having children it's Christians. We have a HUGE privilege to raise children in the fear and love of the TRUE God. The Bible tells us that children are like arrows to accomplish this (Ps. 127:4) and happy is the man who has many (Ps. 127:5).

If God tells us children are gifts, He will provide to take care of those blessings, and we must believe it. Praise God for the gift of children, and praise God for the honor to raise them to know and live for Him.

When We Realize We Need the Savior

Most Americans have heard of Jesus Christ. Most know that He died on a cross. But sadly many don't truly understand why. This is tragic in a world who is in need of a Savior.

We have to understand that no one desires a cure until they know their disease. Until people understand that they have sinned against God, broken His commandments, fallen short of His standard, and that there's absolutely nothing they can do to earn salvation for themselves, they will have no desire for Christ's gift of eternal life.

This is what the law is for. The Bible tells us that the law is our schoolmaster to bring us to Christ (Gal. 3:24) and that by the law is the knowledge of sin (Rom. 3:20). Paul said that he didn't know he was a sinner before the law (Rom. 7:7). It is perfect, converting the soul (Ps. 19:7). This is one reason we simply should not remove it from our way of witnessing.

Today's popular methods of evangelism are shallow and unconvincing. "Jesus loves you," "God has a wonderful plan for your life" or "come discover the joy and peace that Jesus has given me!" are very true and great statements, but when bringing someone to Christ, they only invite confusion. Why do so many turn away from the faith when hard times come? Why do so many cling to God's love but believe Christ accepts their sin too? If you give the wrong reason to accept Christ, that person will have the wrong motive for coming and therefore the wrong expectations.

Yes, Jesus is loving and forgiving and this cannot be acknowledge enough, but this must not be separated from His righteousness and holiness. God hates sin and it will not go unpunished. Too many have the idea that since God is forgiving that he will pardon their sinful lifestyle once they stand before Him on judgment day. Let me refute this with a modern day example: If a thief or murderer asked a judge to forgive him, that judge would be an unjust one if he let him off the hook. Justice simply cannot be overlooked, and God doesn't overlook it either.

But put yourself in the courtroom example and imagine that someone walked in and said they would pay your fine because they loved you. This is exactly what Christ did.

When you go through the Ten Commandments and realize that you have lied, stolen, taken God's name in vain...That you've fallen so short of God's high standards that if you've lusted, you've committed adultery in heart (Mat. 5:28), and if you have hated you've murdered in heart (Matt.5:21-22)....you cannot stop the guilt. You and I have broken every commandment...and I only mentioned half of them. We have fallen so short that God says that if you have broken one of them, you are guilty of breaking all (Jam. 2:10), just like a chain is broken if one link is missing.

But when you come to that point of acknowledging how much you've actually sinned against God and broken His holy standards, this is when Christ's sacrifice finally comes to life. It's always my favorite part in witnessing to finally ask, "____, do you know what Christ did for you?" I usually receive a light-bulb moment look that replies "Christ died for me; for my sins." Many know this fact, but after going through the law it finally makes sense why. Christ died to make a way to heaven for me because I'm destined for hell and there's nothing I can do on my own to change that.

The Good News is simply not good news until you know why you need it. And until people realize they need a Savior because they are totally helpless sinners, they will not desire the cure that Jesus so lovingly offers them. We must, we must, be sharing the gospel according to the Scriptures by convicting from the law.

While some in foreign lands have never heard of Christ, those that have heard here in America need to know the truth just as desperately. We have a mission, we know the cure, what will you do about it?

The Joy of the Lord is My Strength

Last week I enjoyed for the first time the role of being a camp counselor and I loved it. I know it was only successful because of God's power and the prayers of many family and friends back home.

The well known, Philippians 4:13, became so real to me last week. I did many things I could not have normally done and I was placed outside my comfort zone many times, but because God was my strength I was able to accomplish much for Him.

I loved everything about being a counselor: directing, counseling, and discipling five sweet girls, making awesome friends, meeting with other counselors for prayer 6:30 in the morning, meeting and getting to know many campers, learning about God and His Word, participating in fun camp activities, helping campers memorize Scripture, eating the delicious camp food! etc. etc.

But the most joyous part of my week was leading four campers to Christ. Of course it wasn't I who did it; God just happened to use me and put me at the right place at just the right time. And they were so ready. Through the sermons and nights of devotions, their hearts had been softened to the gospel and they were ready to give Christ their life. I listened to them pray and they sincerely asked Christ to be their Savior. It was such an exciting time!! I never helped lead anyone to Christ before so I couldn't help to be moved. I was so thankful for God's working in these girl's lives and the others who surrendered their lives to God.

God did so much last week and answered so much prayer. He not only worked in the camper's hearts but mine as well. I give Him praise for that.

Philippians 4:13 is almost a cliche' among believers, but I want to encourage you to really think about and believe in its meaning. Without God you can do nothing (John 15:5), but with Him you can do anything (Phil. 4:13). You can do all things with Christ if He is your source of strength (Ps. 27:1). And when He is, it's endless of what you can accomplish.

Women Are Like Roses

Did you ever ponder how much a woman is like a rose? There are so many similarities we ladies can learn from this lovely flower.

A lady like a rose...

Should not be picked prematurely.

A man must not attempt to claim her until he is ready and prepared to keep, provide, nurture, lead and water her like a good gardener for the rest of his life. Until he can commit to her completely, he should not ask her to be his. Timing is crucial before such love should begin to bud.

Likewise, the lady should not desire or try to be picked until the time is right. She must mature and grow first. She must use her youth to deepen her roots in the soil of God's Word and to drink the Savior's water for her fulfillment (Jhn. 4:10). Too many girls have missed such an ample opportunity of growth by being picked as only tiny sprouts.

Should not be opened too early.
Whatever stage of her development, a lady should never open her heart to a man except to the one she knows will be her husband. Her hearts is a special abode for only one and to open these blossoms to the wrong man or at the wrong time is losing a precious gift which belongs to one man alone.

Should never be drunk from until the night of her wedding.
To allow a man to drink her nectar who is not her husband is not only a defilment to her roots but is also a sin against her Maker (1 Cor. 6:18). Immorality will cost her her beauty and her fellowship with her God. It will also cost her the most beautiful treasure she owns for her future husband, the one gift she gives away only once to only one person.

As a rose, women are delicate beings, easily torn and easily shattered. Too many have opened their petals at the wrong time and have allowed men to pluck them as they please. They blossom and give everything without matrimony and allow men to drink them dry. Many are being trampled on and left with their beauty, gracefulness, and purity vanished.

Don't give up hope. God is gracious and can restore those whose petals have been torn and plucked to a greater beauty than they could ever know. You'll be blessed and restored when you run to your Maker, who can water you anew again.

No matter where you are, hold on to your treasure. A woman will be blessed when out of obedience to her Maker remains closed for one man and her nectar for only one pair of lips. What a gift it will be to one privileged soul when he picks, opens, and drinks from her at God's appointed timing. What a bond of love shall be between those that choose to wait.

Like a rose, we must grow and find our fulfillment in Christ alone, and if He so desires he will bring a man to claim us one day. Until then, our petals should remain closed for only one.

....The Seas and All That is Therein...

The air is fresh; the breeze is rejuvenating. The rays of the sun gently touch my skin as the yellow ball of light rises over the horizon. The water is buoyant and feels refreshing on my legs and feet. There's not a soul in sight as I continue to walk and leave fresh footprints in the sand. I take it all in and all the beauty around me. This is one of my favorite places to be.

There's nothing like the ocean. Something about the water is so deep, so mysterious. As I stand in front of the massive sea I am in awe of God's power and how small I actually am. God created this vast body of water and life and they all belong to Him.

I love every part about the beach: long walks in the early morning, the soft sand between my toes, spending time with family, jogging along the shore, reading on the porch, watching dolphins, soaking up the sun, finding shells with the kids, feeding the seagulls, taking a swim....it all is grand.














Nehemiah 9:6~
Thou even though art Lord alone. Thou has made heaven, the heavens of heavens with all their host; the earth, and all the things that are therein, the seas, and all that is therein, and thou perservest them all, and the host of heaven worshippeth thee.

Longing For Love

While recently spending the day at an amusement park, one thing I couldn't help but notice was how many girls I saw---many who were quite young---hidden in guy's arms. A few faces revealed a look of emptiness and others just plain indifference, but I'm sure each were seeking after the same thing: emotional security and ultimately...love. My heart went out to them.

When I see these young girls I can't help but wonder about their individual world's and their home lives. Do they come from broken families? Are they devoid of love where they live? Are their parents there for them? While this can be related to the choices they make and who they become, despite one's background the truth is that if a girl doesn't have the Lord, guys are one of the only things she can turn to.

I know how they feel. All they want is someone to love and cherish them. As I looked into dark, makeup covered eyes with masculine arms around her waist and showers of kisses upon her neck, I saw the pain and the desire for security. My heart grieved for her because she hasn't found it yet. If you don't know the Lord, where else do you go?

As she places herself in his embraces and lets his hands touch her, she thinks it's love, but the man's actions portray an entirely different message. He loves every minute of easy pleasure from someone who will freely give it. She's vulnerable and he knows it. For her this is the price she must pay for someone to desire and care for her, but how long will it last?

What has happened to respect? Why have girls let go of precious treasures? Where are all the gentlemen?

None of these issues can be solved until God is the center. Christ is the only answer to the emptiness of the soul. No guy could ever fulfill a lady's longings. No lady can find true emotional security and love until she has given her heart to the One who loves her most.

A man and woman who love the Lord can display true love because they have been given it, and until the gospel has been shared, emptiness will have no remedy. It's just another reason the Good News must be spread.

Excerpt From My Journal

As I pack away my Bright Lights material tonight, my heart overflows with joy and gratitude of all that God has done. I can't help but smile. I did it...with Him. With God's help I started a group that I have always prayed about and now it is finished. I finally got to discipline young ladies and teach them the truths of God's Word! Oh Praise You Lord! I was so uncertain at first but God has blessed. Indeed God doesn't call us to do anything that He won't help us with. And oh, I could have never done this without His help. There's certain things that are totally out of my power, like the working and changing in the girl's lives. That's the Holy Spirit's job. And there's other things that I rely on Him for, such as the boldness and words to speak for each lesson. It's so easy, though, to occasionally assume I can do the little things---or at least something---without His help. Yet the Bible says, "without me, ye can do nothing."

There's been many times I have sat in front of my laptop ready to write but my mind remained terribly blank--the one thing I thought I was capable of accomplishing myself. I've had to call on the Lord many times for inspiration and He's showered me with ideas and thoughts that I would have never thought of. He's the one who has wrote the lessons, not I.


From what I've learned from leading Bright Lights, the thing that stands out the most would be learning to have a greater dependency on God. This has strengthened my faith and relationship with Him as I've had to seek Him many times to help me. How foolish I am to think I can handle things on my own. When I rely on myself all is fruitless. Leading this group has helped me to see how much I need Him for the big and small things.


Prayer. Oh, how important it is. This has become more real to me over the past few months. You see, prayer has not only been the preparation for the ministry; it is the ministry. A work done for God is only as powerful as it has been soaked with prayer. Every week of Bible study God has answered prayer, and in the process He has grown my faith in the true effectiveness of it.

God is so gracious for each girl He has sent my way and I am so thankful for the opportunity He gave me to be apart of their lives. I love them all so much and they are all so special in their own way. I do pray that the things that they learned will be used in their life and that God will continue to grow them to be strong and godly young ladies for the glory of Him. May I never forget the things He has taught me too, and I pray I will always choose to put my dependency and strength in Him in whatever I do.

Simple Exercise That Will Change Everything

In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18

I have been striving lately to apply 1 Thess. 5:18 to my life and in doing so I have found it does wonders.

My sister and I went to an amusement park with a group of friends and the most aggrivating thing occurred. I put my cell-phone in my pocket before the ride (like I have done a million times before) and when I hopped off the coaster I checked my pocket and my phone was not there. I was so upset. The absence of my cell-phone was not what essentially bothered me (since it can be replaced) but the fact that all my contacts, numbers, notes, and pictures were forever gone.

I couldn't get the senario out of my head when it first happened. My information was lost and my phone probably in a million pieces. How could I be cheerful and enjoy the park again? At that point I had a choice to make. Either I could dwell on my regrets and ruin my whole day, or I could be thankful.

Be thankful?? Yes, when I finally took the time to dwell on what I was thankful for in the situation I realized there were many things.

First, I was thankful that my cell-phone had fallen out of my pocket and not the money and credit card that resided in the opposite one. Between the two I would have definitely given up my cell, so I was very grateful for that.

Second, I was grateful I had some of my numbers written down so not all of them were completely gone.

Third, I was thankful I had a spare phone at home (even though it's not so great) which I could transfer my number immediately incase anyone called.

When I thought about it, I realized the situation wasn't as bad as it seemed. Dwelling on the good instead of the unfavorable changed my whole perspective around. I knew according to 1 Thessalonians 5:18 that God has a reason for what occurred and I was to give thanks anyway. Because I did, I was able to enjoy the rest of the day and have a blast with my friends even though I was cell-phone absent.

If only I could remember and apply this to all parts of my life! It makes me wonder that if I can't apply this to the small areas, how will I respond when trials come my way? Will I be able to give thanks (1 Thess. 5:18) or count it all joy (James 1:2)? I need to make the practice of giving thanks in the disappointing things a natural part of my life. I know it would be so much better if I do.


*Note: I recommend an excellent book that focuses on this verse: A Thankful Heart by Carole Lewis. It will change your life.

Is Submission Stupid?

We enjoyed our first women's fellowship at our church this past week. During this time our pastor's wife briefly mentioned the command in Scripture for wives to obey their husbands (Eph 5:22-23, Col. 3:18, Titus 2:5). One lady, a widow at our church, is something else. She's up there in years yet full of spunk and wit. She recently gave herself to the Lord and has much to learn about the Bible but is thankfully very open and curious to know what it says. This part just didn't make sense to her though.

"Obey your husband??" She asked, "I know the Bible says it but I just can't fathom. No, I just couldn't do that..." I told her that God gives us the strength to do what He commands and that He blesses us in return. She accepted the idea yet still said she couldn't have done it. "Well, I didn't know that when I was married," she commented, "now that I do I think I'll just stay single *laughs*".

Submission in the Bible is hard to comprehend to a world going in the opposite direction. Feminist just love to feel sorry for submissive wives and their "oppressive" lifestyle. All I know is that no matter how hard it is to understand, the Bible is the authoritative, infallible Word of God and is the Creator's instruction manuel for us to live a successful life. We will only be safe if we live by it and follow it whole-heartily.

At this stage of my life, I don't have to worry about obeying a husband (particularly because I don't have one), but I am still commanded by God to do the same to my father (Col. 3:20; Eph, 6:1-2). Let me tell you, I am so thankful to be under my father's authority. It is really a blessing to be protected and guided under his leadership.

Because of our rebellious and sinful hearts, it is easy to look at submission through culture's eyes as being legalistic and degrading, but I see it and from experience know that it is not as the world thinks it is. God guides, directs, protects, and blesses me when I respect and obey my father. God leads me through my Dad. I never feel as if I am in bondage or handcuffed from happiness. Quite contrary, obedience to God's ways are entirely liberating. Obeying the Lord and His commands has only resulted in freedom and blessings to my life, plus in return my father trusts me and it strengthens our relationship. Of course I'm not perfect (far from it), but when God helps me to submit to my parents I only gain what's best in the end.

Submission is one of those Biblical paradoxes that most find hard to understand. You see, the more I respect, honor, and obey my father, the more freedom I am granted. I'm not referring to the liberties my father grants (which is certainly part of it) but ultimately from God Himself.

A great deal of young ladies think that they too can earn freedom by parting from their father's headship. While it might seem like they are liberated, in truths they are not. When you exit the position God has given your father as head of the home, you leave God's protection and are left in a very vulnerable and dangerous position. You are no longer safe, no longer blessed, and living outside of God's will is always a very scary thought indeed!

The fact is that authority is simply something we can't run from. It is a element of life we will be subject to the rest of our days. Whether that position is parents, a husband, a boss, your pastor, government, and ultimately God Himself, authority is something we have to deal with, because if we don't life will be pretty miserable.

I'm not saying submission is easy, but in the midst of opinions and controversies, I just have to keep in mind that God's ways are not ours. I am under my father's head and one day I will be under the headship of a husband and I am perfectly fine with that. In fact, I am very grateful. Why you ask? Because my God deeply loves me and He knows what's best. I don't have to truly understand; My job is just to be to obedient. And I can find joy in that because I know when I obey my Dad I am essentially obeying God, and God is ultimately the one I desire to please.

A few shots of a wonderful, much needed vacation

Trying to make it look vintage (they struggled not to smile) ;)


Normal :)

Overflowing Treasures....Or Trash?

I have this problem and perhaps you can sympathize with me. I'm a very organized person which is great. My complication? I have a hard time getting rid of things. In other words I keep just about everything that means something to me or I think can be useful sometime in the future. I think this can be good concerning some stuff but overall is this a good or bad thing??

Holly has called me a pack rat for awhile now. Looking around my room and seeing everything organized and in order, I always thought it wildly unreasonably that I would be so....until I did some deep cleaning. All I have to say is: oh brother!

I have hung on to almost everything that holds any sentimental value to me. They are the most difficult for me to let go, so therefore I usually don't. It drives me crazy but at the same time it would kill me to give it up or throw it away. I couldn't believe some of the things I discovered packed away in boxes and such, some stuff I've had and hadn't seen in ages. It's like this raging battle taking place inside of me. I don't need it but I just can't trash it!

I'm doing a little better and the last cleaning excursion of my room was profitable as I finally begun letting things go. But the bad things is that I have discovered this struggle recently appearing in other things, such as my text message inbox and my e-mail. They constantly remain full because there's too many messages/e-mails I wouldn't consider deleting. AHHHHHH!

This really is a struggle. The problem is that I don't see any solution but letting go of some things. I feel like just throwing up my hands over this. Am I a hopeless case?