The conscience is how we use our moral judgment to determine right and wrong. It is a learned function. The conscience is trained. Therefore, if it is trained in a wrong fashion, it will recognize what is wrong to be right, and it will be an unreliable guide! I believe there are different types of consciences:
OPINIONATED CONSCIENCE: is selfish; makes judgment calls based on its own moral standards; has no regard for truth upon which all judgments must be based.
PERVERTED CONSCIENCE: cannot distinguish right from wrong due to influences of evil environments and false teaching. Consider Saul (Paul) who had a perverted conscience before learning the truth (Acts 22: 3-4; 23: 1; 26: 9; 1 Tim. 1: 15-16).
SEARED CONSCIENCE: to play with the wrong thing or commit wrong actions until your conscience no longer bothers you (1 Tim. 4: 1-2).
SHIPWRECKED CONSCIENCE: the result of a deceived or misguided conscience. Hymenaeus and Alexander fell to this condition (1 Tim. 1: 18-20).
DEAD CONSCIENCE: self-explanatory; no pulse; can no longer be wounded. Only a live conscience can be wounded (Acts 2: 37-38; Heb. 4: 12).
HOW TO CREATE A CLEAR CONSCIENCE: Motive plays a role in training a conscience. Consider the band of grifters known as "Irish travelers." They're thieves and they teach their children to perpetuate this behavior. These children do not necessarily know they're being trained to be criminals. It's just a way of life for them. Ergo, only truth can create a safe conscience because it sets us free (Jno 8: 32). In the account of Saul's (Paul's) conversion, once he realized he was in the wrong, he willingly chose to act upon the correct information and change his errant behavior. His own sincerity lead him to humble himself and re-educate his conscience.
We cannot begin to touch God's wisdom. That is why we need to submit to His will rather than our own (Psa. 94: 11; Prov. 14: 12; Isa. 55: 8-9).
I know that I did things in the past that I was ignorant about, but as I got older and wiser realized that they were a lapse in conscience. I appreciate the fact now that my conscience convicts me quicker than it used to, and that I know to seek out God's opinion and that of those who are wiser than myself.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Open Thread
Okay. I hate it when a conversation is one-sided. Write in and tell me what's on our minds. That's what open threads are for. As far as I'm concerned, all my subjects are open threads.
Love Ya,
God Bless!
Love Ya,
God Bless!
Friday, November 23, 2007
FIRE!
I was remembering an incident that happened in my early childhood. The fear it caused me has abated over the past 38 years, but I still remember it well.
When I was 3, our house burned to the ground. My parents had it for sale. A young couple had put down the earnest money and signed the contract on it the week prior. During that week, we also had a terrible electrical storm. The house burned the following week. My mother awoke to the smell of smoke after our dog kept running to their bedroom window outside and barking. Mama grabbed me up first and put me in the car. All the while she was yelling at Daddy to get up; that the entire opposite end of the house was on fire. I was sleeping in my parents' bed that night because I was still afraid of the dark, and it's a good thing, because my bedroom was on the end of the house where the fire started. My parents lost a few things, but we were grateful to have escaped alive. They thought I was too young for the fire to have had a lasting effect on me; but once we were in our new home they would awaken every morning to a cold house. They couldn't figure out how the wall heaters were getting turned off during the night until Daddy caught me sleepwalking and turning them off. I never told them, but I was afraid of burning to death. I eventually got over that, but I still have a healthy respect for fire just like I do God's other gift, water. I love a nice, hot soak in the tub, but I'm still frightened of deep water even though I can swim.
I told you that long-winded personal account to illustrate both the goodness and destructiveness of fire.
Fire makes life feasible. We need it for our survival: to cook food, to warm ourselves, to light our way in darkness, and to forge implements for farming and warfare. In the alternative, it can also destroy all life: flora, fauna, and human. The Bible gives us numerous examples of how fire both enhances or destroys life:
THE POSITIVES:
A. Ex. 13: 21 - God led the Israelites as a pillar of fire by night;
B. Lev. 6: 12 - fire as an element used in worship;
C. Jer. 28: 29 - the power of God's Word described as a fire;
D. Acts 2: 3 - The Holy Spirit causes tongues of fire to appear over the apostles'
heads on the day of Pentecost;
E. 1 Thess. 5: 19 - We're not to quench the Holy Spirit's fire, to show contempt for
God's Word, but to use it to prove and keep that which is good and reject what is
bad;
F. Jude 23 - We can pull others from the fire of sin.
THE NEGATIVES:
A. Lev. 10: 1-3 - Nadab and Abihu were destroyed by fire from God for their willful
disregard for His instructions. They offered "strange fire" (unauthorized, NIV)
before the Lord;
B. Matt. 3: 11 - Those who reject Christ will be destroyed by fire (see also Matt. 5:
22; 25: 41; and Rev. 20: 14);
C. Mk. 9: 43 - We're in danger of Hell's fire if we can't exercise proper self-control;
D. Heb. 12: 29 - God is a consuming fire. He can save or destroy us;
E. Jas. 3: 5 - Our tongues, though small, can be as dangerous as a match to a forest
fire;
F. 2 Pet. 3: 10 - The earth will be destroyed by fire upon Christ's second coming.
I often ask myself, am I on fire for the Lord's kingdom or am I headed to Hell's fire? As harsh as that sounds, it shocks me into acknowledging issues in my life that need to be addressed.
You may wonder what possessed me to write such a post. I often think about fire, but especially now since the weather's gotten colder and we've switched on the faux fireplace. Even thought it's not real, it still makes me think about the real thing...and the eternal thing.
Love Ya,
God Bless!
When I was 3, our house burned to the ground. My parents had it for sale. A young couple had put down the earnest money and signed the contract on it the week prior. During that week, we also had a terrible electrical storm. The house burned the following week. My mother awoke to the smell of smoke after our dog kept running to their bedroom window outside and barking. Mama grabbed me up first and put me in the car. All the while she was yelling at Daddy to get up; that the entire opposite end of the house was on fire. I was sleeping in my parents' bed that night because I was still afraid of the dark, and it's a good thing, because my bedroom was on the end of the house where the fire started. My parents lost a few things, but we were grateful to have escaped alive. They thought I was too young for the fire to have had a lasting effect on me; but once we were in our new home they would awaken every morning to a cold house. They couldn't figure out how the wall heaters were getting turned off during the night until Daddy caught me sleepwalking and turning them off. I never told them, but I was afraid of burning to death. I eventually got over that, but I still have a healthy respect for fire just like I do God's other gift, water. I love a nice, hot soak in the tub, but I'm still frightened of deep water even though I can swim.
I told you that long-winded personal account to illustrate both the goodness and destructiveness of fire.
Fire makes life feasible. We need it for our survival: to cook food, to warm ourselves, to light our way in darkness, and to forge implements for farming and warfare. In the alternative, it can also destroy all life: flora, fauna, and human. The Bible gives us numerous examples of how fire both enhances or destroys life:
THE POSITIVES:
A. Ex. 13: 21 - God led the Israelites as a pillar of fire by night;
B. Lev. 6: 12 - fire as an element used in worship;
C. Jer. 28: 29 - the power of God's Word described as a fire;
D. Acts 2: 3 - The Holy Spirit causes tongues of fire to appear over the apostles'
heads on the day of Pentecost;
E. 1 Thess. 5: 19 - We're not to quench the Holy Spirit's fire, to show contempt for
God's Word, but to use it to prove and keep that which is good and reject what is
bad;
F. Jude 23 - We can pull others from the fire of sin.
THE NEGATIVES:
A. Lev. 10: 1-3 - Nadab and Abihu were destroyed by fire from God for their willful
disregard for His instructions. They offered "strange fire" (unauthorized, NIV)
before the Lord;
B. Matt. 3: 11 - Those who reject Christ will be destroyed by fire (see also Matt. 5:
22; 25: 41; and Rev. 20: 14);
C. Mk. 9: 43 - We're in danger of Hell's fire if we can't exercise proper self-control;
D. Heb. 12: 29 - God is a consuming fire. He can save or destroy us;
E. Jas. 3: 5 - Our tongues, though small, can be as dangerous as a match to a forest
fire;
F. 2 Pet. 3: 10 - The earth will be destroyed by fire upon Christ's second coming.
I often ask myself, am I on fire for the Lord's kingdom or am I headed to Hell's fire? As harsh as that sounds, it shocks me into acknowledging issues in my life that need to be addressed.
You may wonder what possessed me to write such a post. I often think about fire, but especially now since the weather's gotten colder and we've switched on the faux fireplace. Even thought it's not real, it still makes me think about the real thing...and the eternal thing.
Love Ya,
God Bless!
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Anger Management
"In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry." - Eph. 4: 26
I speak from personal experience when I say that I have dealt with excessive anger issues in my own life. I have sinned in my anger before and have had to repent and ask forgiveness, both from the victim and from God. I find my own nasty temper embarrassing and I have gained better control over it through the years. Nowadays I'm more apt to let an issue go rather than lose a friendship or make an already tense situation with an enemy escalate.
Anger is a normal human emotion. It's just one more thing that we have to exercise control over the same as we would any other emotion to keep it from going to the extreme.
God modeled a healthy example of anger for us in Psalm. 30: 5. His anger is short-lived and his favor towards us lasts a lifetime. God was not in a good mood in Exodus 33: 3 or Isaiah 54: 7. He doesn't reject the person in His anger, but their sin. When we return to Him and repent, He's there with open arms. We're not on probation or held at arms length. He fully takes us back. That's what touches my heart and makes the parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15: 11-20 my favorite. The father didn't stand upon the hill looking down at his disobedient, sinful son with arms folded and say, "I told you so." No! He ran to him when he saw him approaching home and took him in his arms. His precious child had returned home. Forgive me for taking this rabbit trail away from the topic, but that example of God's superior love towards us still gets to me.
Time is a factor in turning anger into sin. It may be natural to get angry, but holding onto that anger puts you into a full-tilt boogie towards it causing you to sin. The reason why is that the anger becomes more deep-seated the longer you hang on to it. It will eventually make you bitter (Heb. 12: 15). By refusing to make up when the other party tries to, you're putting yourself in a perpetual state of offense with that person. Consider the following:
Know when to let go of your anger (Psa. 4: 4; Prov. 15: 1).
Going to bed angry also causes insomnia (Eccl. 5: 3). Did you know that?
Satan can also seize you if you get yourself so mired in anger that you sin (1 Pet. 5: 8).
Weapons can take on the form of words, thoughts, or actions. Choose them carefully (Prov. 25: 11).
Arguments are caused by pride (Prov. 13: 10).
You buy what you justify. In order to rid yourself of an unacceptable behavior you must deny it access to your life so God can remove it (Luk. 9: 23; Gal. 5: 16-20; Mk. 14: 36).
Regarding unresolved conflict, you're to reach out to the injured party and ask forgiveness (Rom. 12: 18). If they deny you the same, then you just have to let it go. You've done what God required of you. Also, settle quickly with your enemies (Mt. 5: 23-26). That's just exercising the good sense of damage control.
Remember to control your tongue (Jas. 3: 2-6, 12-13; Prov. 18: 21); keep your speech clean (Mt. 15: 11; 10: 19-20); and choose to overlook others' transgressions (Prov. 19: 11; 1 Pet. 2: 21-23; and Luk. 17: 4) The way God chooses to forgive us depends upon our willingness to do so for others (Col. 3: 13; Mt. 6: 14-15).
We all have our besetting sin, and this is one of mine. I have to work on it daily because I'm naturally wired to be a hot-head. I hope these verses will help you get a handle on it too, of this is your weakness as well.
Love Ya,
God Bless!
I speak from personal experience when I say that I have dealt with excessive anger issues in my own life. I have sinned in my anger before and have had to repent and ask forgiveness, both from the victim and from God. I find my own nasty temper embarrassing and I have gained better control over it through the years. Nowadays I'm more apt to let an issue go rather than lose a friendship or make an already tense situation with an enemy escalate.
Anger is a normal human emotion. It's just one more thing that we have to exercise control over the same as we would any other emotion to keep it from going to the extreme.
God modeled a healthy example of anger for us in Psalm. 30: 5. His anger is short-lived and his favor towards us lasts a lifetime. God was not in a good mood in Exodus 33: 3 or Isaiah 54: 7. He doesn't reject the person in His anger, but their sin. When we return to Him and repent, He's there with open arms. We're not on probation or held at arms length. He fully takes us back. That's what touches my heart and makes the parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15: 11-20 my favorite. The father didn't stand upon the hill looking down at his disobedient, sinful son with arms folded and say, "I told you so." No! He ran to him when he saw him approaching home and took him in his arms. His precious child had returned home. Forgive me for taking this rabbit trail away from the topic, but that example of God's superior love towards us still gets to me.
Time is a factor in turning anger into sin. It may be natural to get angry, but holding onto that anger puts you into a full-tilt boogie towards it causing you to sin. The reason why is that the anger becomes more deep-seated the longer you hang on to it. It will eventually make you bitter (Heb. 12: 15). By refusing to make up when the other party tries to, you're putting yourself in a perpetual state of offense with that person. Consider the following:
Know when to let go of your anger (Psa. 4: 4; Prov. 15: 1).
Going to bed angry also causes insomnia (Eccl. 5: 3). Did you know that?
Satan can also seize you if you get yourself so mired in anger that you sin (1 Pet. 5: 8).
Weapons can take on the form of words, thoughts, or actions. Choose them carefully (Prov. 25: 11).
Arguments are caused by pride (Prov. 13: 10).
You buy what you justify. In order to rid yourself of an unacceptable behavior you must deny it access to your life so God can remove it (Luk. 9: 23; Gal. 5: 16-20; Mk. 14: 36).
Regarding unresolved conflict, you're to reach out to the injured party and ask forgiveness (Rom. 12: 18). If they deny you the same, then you just have to let it go. You've done what God required of you. Also, settle quickly with your enemies (Mt. 5: 23-26). That's just exercising the good sense of damage control.
Remember to control your tongue (Jas. 3: 2-6, 12-13; Prov. 18: 21); keep your speech clean (Mt. 15: 11; 10: 19-20); and choose to overlook others' transgressions (Prov. 19: 11; 1 Pet. 2: 21-23; and Luk. 17: 4) The way God chooses to forgive us depends upon our willingness to do so for others (Col. 3: 13; Mt. 6: 14-15).
We all have our besetting sin, and this is one of mine. I have to work on it daily because I'm naturally wired to be a hot-head. I hope these verses will help you get a handle on it too, of this is your weakness as well.
Love Ya,
God Bless!
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Standing Alone While Outnumbered
I believe we all like to think of ourselves as individualists; that we march to the beat of our own drum. More times than not, that's further from the truth than we are willing to admit. Truthfully, it's scary to be perceived as different. We generally prefer to "blend in" with others and be a part of something larger than ourselves. We actively pursue a sense of belonging. Fear of rejection is a very real human emotion. When you're not accepted by some group of people for whatever reason, it hurts very badly. I think we all have a fear of looking foolish, being talked about, and misunderstood. Such fears hold us captive, paralyze us to the point of not being able to act at all, and stall our creativity. In our sincere efforts in trying not to stick out like a sore thumb, we will feel pressure to conform to the collective opinion of the majority, even when we know it's wrong.
In order to achieve personal excellence we have to overcome the temptation to conform to the mold of others. To "conform" means to assume an outward expression that does not come from within. If I am participating in a less than Christ-like activity on the outside when I know on the inside it is wrong, I am conforming to the world's standards. So how do we keep from conforming to the world? By renewing our minds (Rom. 12: 1-2). We are urged, not asked or suggested by Paul, to be a "holy...living" sacrifice. Do we keep crawling off the altar? This passage addresses the point of presenting our inner Christ-likeness outwardly by our actions. The "Sunday Christian" will lack the spiritual fortitude to stand alone, against all odds, Monday through Saturday, because their heart's (translated "soul's") not in it. We need to consciously re-present our bodies and re-dedicate our minds daily to serve God in order to keep ourselves on track. You may be a stronger Christian than me, and you may not feel the need to do this like I do. You may be the straightest arrow in the quiver. If so, I admire you. Personally, I have to remind myself daily WHO I belong to.
The commitments of the world, which are money, fame, power, and pleasure, get to all of us to some degree. That's why we need to be on guard against these things destroying our eternal inheritance.
Money is a necessary tool. It can buy everything but class. I know. Unfortunately, I've met a few classless, wealthy people.
Fame, the celebrity mindset, comes from wanting to be recognized as somebody in someone else's eyes.
Power comes from wanting to have influence or control over others in order to manipulate them to your own benefit.
Pleasure is doing what feels good now regardless of what consequence may arise from it later.
Now, let me draw your attention to 1 Corinthians 15: 33 which states, "Bad company corrupts good manners." Moses warned the Israelites about this (Deut. 6: 10-15) before they entered Canaan. He told them they would encounter worldly blessings but to not forget their escape from Egyptian bondage. Moses was warning them not to worship other gods because they had failed in completely driving out the Canaanites from the land. In not totally eliminating the enemy as they were told, the Israelites allowed the Canaanites to live among them and have a bad influence on them. They thought they could neutralize the Canaanites' influence by enslaving them, but it was futile. Before long, the Israelites were worshipping the Canaanites' idols and engaging in depraved behavior just like them and with them (Judg. 1: 21-33; 3: 5-6). In order to see where I'm going with this point, bear in mind that neither Hugh Hefner nor Larry Flynt created pornography first. The ancient Canaanite culture was famous for it. The remaining Canaanite inhabitants were eventually destroyed by rampant sexually transmitted diseases, if that tells you anything.
So how's your own Monday to Saturday life? There are absolutely no Christians among the people I work with weekly. I would be lying if I said they never had any influence on me. If I'm not careful, I could get to sounding as foul-mouthed as they are. I have to bite my tongue often. I have to remind myself of Who's I am again and that He wants my love and loyalty directed towards Him (Deut. 6: 13-19).
How can you ground yourself when you're standing alone? Tell yourself:
1. God is my standard and security.
2. I must not forget God.
3. I am accountable to Him.
4. I alone am responsible for my actions.
For reinforcement, read: James 5: 8; 2 Thessalonians 2: 15; 1 Corinthians 15: 58; and Ephesians 6: 14.
Love Ya,
God Bless!
In order to achieve personal excellence we have to overcome the temptation to conform to the mold of others. To "conform" means to assume an outward expression that does not come from within. If I am participating in a less than Christ-like activity on the outside when I know on the inside it is wrong, I am conforming to the world's standards. So how do we keep from conforming to the world? By renewing our minds (Rom. 12: 1-2). We are urged, not asked or suggested by Paul, to be a "holy...living" sacrifice. Do we keep crawling off the altar? This passage addresses the point of presenting our inner Christ-likeness outwardly by our actions. The "Sunday Christian" will lack the spiritual fortitude to stand alone, against all odds, Monday through Saturday, because their heart's (translated "soul's") not in it. We need to consciously re-present our bodies and re-dedicate our minds daily to serve God in order to keep ourselves on track. You may be a stronger Christian than me, and you may not feel the need to do this like I do. You may be the straightest arrow in the quiver. If so, I admire you. Personally, I have to remind myself daily WHO I belong to.
The commitments of the world, which are money, fame, power, and pleasure, get to all of us to some degree. That's why we need to be on guard against these things destroying our eternal inheritance.
Money is a necessary tool. It can buy everything but class. I know. Unfortunately, I've met a few classless, wealthy people.
Fame, the celebrity mindset, comes from wanting to be recognized as somebody in someone else's eyes.
Power comes from wanting to have influence or control over others in order to manipulate them to your own benefit.
Pleasure is doing what feels good now regardless of what consequence may arise from it later.
Now, let me draw your attention to 1 Corinthians 15: 33 which states, "Bad company corrupts good manners." Moses warned the Israelites about this (Deut. 6: 10-15) before they entered Canaan. He told them they would encounter worldly blessings but to not forget their escape from Egyptian bondage. Moses was warning them not to worship other gods because they had failed in completely driving out the Canaanites from the land. In not totally eliminating the enemy as they were told, the Israelites allowed the Canaanites to live among them and have a bad influence on them. They thought they could neutralize the Canaanites' influence by enslaving them, but it was futile. Before long, the Israelites were worshipping the Canaanites' idols and engaging in depraved behavior just like them and with them (Judg. 1: 21-33; 3: 5-6). In order to see where I'm going with this point, bear in mind that neither Hugh Hefner nor Larry Flynt created pornography first. The ancient Canaanite culture was famous for it. The remaining Canaanite inhabitants were eventually destroyed by rampant sexually transmitted diseases, if that tells you anything.
So how's your own Monday to Saturday life? There are absolutely no Christians among the people I work with weekly. I would be lying if I said they never had any influence on me. If I'm not careful, I could get to sounding as foul-mouthed as they are. I have to bite my tongue often. I have to remind myself of Who's I am again and that He wants my love and loyalty directed towards Him (Deut. 6: 13-19).
How can you ground yourself when you're standing alone? Tell yourself:
1. God is my standard and security.
2. I must not forget God.
3. I am accountable to Him.
4. I alone am responsible for my actions.
For reinforcement, read: James 5: 8; 2 Thessalonians 2: 15; 1 Corinthians 15: 58; and Ephesians 6: 14.
Love Ya,
God Bless!
Monday, November 12, 2007
Mary or Martha?
My husband and I have attended the Main Street church of Christ going on two years now, but I've never been a complete stranger there. I went to school with several members, have worked with a few, and have been involved in civic organizations with others. Having that history made the transition from a little country church to a 300+ member church a bit easier for me. I miss my girlfriends and their families where we used to attend, but I have come to know and have fallen in love with so many new friends in my new church home. I must confess that Kevin and I left the old church because we became so discouraged by the hit or miss attendance of more than a few of our friends. There were other factors that came into play as well, like distance, that church being in a transition phase, etc.; but we left on good terms and still love everyone there. However, one of the main reasons we left was because we were lonely.
This message may step on some toes. Please don't be offended, because once upon a time it stepped on mine as well. I was once a prodigal daughter. I woke up one morning and didn't like the woman in the mirror. I knew she had been raised right, but she wasn't acting right. I could clearly see that living a life outside of Christ was substandard and not where I wanted to be. I returned to church and was restored. The reason I fell away from the church in the first place was for two reasons: (a) I got in with the wrong crowd; and (b) I let everyday cares and concerns that are no more unique from anyone else's serve as my excuses for not attending. That latter reason seems so innoculous. I mean, it couldn't hurt to be away every once in awhile, could it? But that's the lie Satan wants us to believe. Pretty soon, anything will be able to keep you away. That's when you become a human doing instead of a human being. I'm not talking about big, once-in-a-blue-moon events like water pipes bursting in your home, or something of that nature. I'm also not talking about when you're physically ill. I'm talking about little, piddly stuff. I'm just saying that sometimes our service to God gets shoved to the back of the line among the events in our day because we just can't be bothered with Him right now. Girlfriends, that should not be.
In Luke 10: 38-42 we have the occasion where Jesus was visiting Mary and Martha in their home. Martha was wanting to be an incredible hostess. I know that when anyone's in my home that I want to be hospitable and make them comfortable. I truly think Martha meant well and wanted to be a great hostess to Jesus and company. However, she had her priorities out of order. She was irate because Mary was sitting quietly and listening to Jesus speak. He had Mary's undivided attention. Martha probably felt "put upon," as we sometimes say here in the south. She told Jesus to tell Mary to come help her. Instead of that, however, Jesus told her that she was "worried and upset about many things," but that Mary had "chosen what is better and it will not be taken away from her."
How often, like Martha, do we get preoccupied with temporary matters and neglect the eternal? Repeatedly doing so will eventually cause you to become spiritually malnourished. You'll know your spirit has been taken off life support when you no longer desire to spend any time in worship, fellowship, or study with other Christians. Just remember, nobody will love your soul like your fellow Christian friends. I know I pray over several people who have no idea that I'm fearful for their spiritual well-being.
Leisure activities are not wrong in and of themselves, and time to rest is needed. I promise nobody loves to play and rest more than me. However, such should not supercede our commitment to God. Do you include Him in your plans? Do you look up the churches in the area where you plan to go on vacation? We do. It's been a fun experience and we've been warmly received everywhere we've gone. We haven't missed out on any fun anywhere we've vacationed because we chose to attend worship services. It won't kill you to stop and give God an hour or two out of your week.
We need to realize that Christianity is NOT a religion. It's a whole life system. I'm supposed to "seek first the kingdom" (Mt. 6: 33) everyday. There is a cost to following Christ (Luk. 9: 59-62). However, I cannot make that excuse for I live in a free country where I get to attend worship without fear of being persecuted. Being teased by friends is not being persecuted, by the way. Tell them to grow up and get over it. Unlike Christians in communist countries and dictatorships, I've never suffered physically for my faith. I would like to think I would have the fortitude to die rather than denounce Him. If I did remain faithful under those conditions, I would be rewarded for my obedience (Mt. 19: 23-30; 2 Tim. 2: 3-4; Rev. 2: 10). That's the kind of commitment God expects from us. We in the Land of the Free are spoiled though, and sometimes we don't even give Him the bare minimum.
Hebrews 10: 24-25 tells us that we're not to forsake the assembly, but to come together for mutual encouragement. For me, meeting with fellow Christians helps me to regularly assess my own spiritual condition and recharge my batteries. Consider who else might be affected by your disinterest or decision to do something else, i.e., friends or spouses who aren't spiritually strong, children who look to you as an example, etc. You have an obligation to lead by example (Deut. 4: 9-10; Prov. 22: 6; and 1 Pet. 3: 1-2). We need to come together because:
A. We're commanded to study the Bible (2 Tim. 2: 15);
B. We need to gain knowledge with which to teach others (Heb. 5: 12);
C. We need to have a ready answer for the reason of our hope (1 Pet. 3: 15);
D. We need to be able to defend the faith (Jude 3);
E. We need to feed our souls (1 Pet. 2: 2); and
F. We need to be preparing for the Judgment (Jno. 12: 48). Have you considered what sort of people you will be spending eternity with if you choose not to be with your Christian friends? Think about that sometime.
In conclusion, I'll tell you what I've told my husband before: I need you because I love you. I don't love you because I need you.
When you're not around, I'm discouraged and I genuinely miss you. My mind makes a mental note that you've gone missing and I worry about you. I'll see you in church!
Love Ya,
God Bless!
This message may step on some toes. Please don't be offended, because once upon a time it stepped on mine as well. I was once a prodigal daughter. I woke up one morning and didn't like the woman in the mirror. I knew she had been raised right, but she wasn't acting right. I could clearly see that living a life outside of Christ was substandard and not where I wanted to be. I returned to church and was restored. The reason I fell away from the church in the first place was for two reasons: (a) I got in with the wrong crowd; and (b) I let everyday cares and concerns that are no more unique from anyone else's serve as my excuses for not attending. That latter reason seems so innoculous. I mean, it couldn't hurt to be away every once in awhile, could it? But that's the lie Satan wants us to believe. Pretty soon, anything will be able to keep you away. That's when you become a human doing instead of a human being. I'm not talking about big, once-in-a-blue-moon events like water pipes bursting in your home, or something of that nature. I'm also not talking about when you're physically ill. I'm talking about little, piddly stuff. I'm just saying that sometimes our service to God gets shoved to the back of the line among the events in our day because we just can't be bothered with Him right now. Girlfriends, that should not be.
In Luke 10: 38-42 we have the occasion where Jesus was visiting Mary and Martha in their home. Martha was wanting to be an incredible hostess. I know that when anyone's in my home that I want to be hospitable and make them comfortable. I truly think Martha meant well and wanted to be a great hostess to Jesus and company. However, she had her priorities out of order. She was irate because Mary was sitting quietly and listening to Jesus speak. He had Mary's undivided attention. Martha probably felt "put upon," as we sometimes say here in the south. She told Jesus to tell Mary to come help her. Instead of that, however, Jesus told her that she was "worried and upset about many things," but that Mary had "chosen what is better and it will not be taken away from her."
How often, like Martha, do we get preoccupied with temporary matters and neglect the eternal? Repeatedly doing so will eventually cause you to become spiritually malnourished. You'll know your spirit has been taken off life support when you no longer desire to spend any time in worship, fellowship, or study with other Christians. Just remember, nobody will love your soul like your fellow Christian friends. I know I pray over several people who have no idea that I'm fearful for their spiritual well-being.
Leisure activities are not wrong in and of themselves, and time to rest is needed. I promise nobody loves to play and rest more than me. However, such should not supercede our commitment to God. Do you include Him in your plans? Do you look up the churches in the area where you plan to go on vacation? We do. It's been a fun experience and we've been warmly received everywhere we've gone. We haven't missed out on any fun anywhere we've vacationed because we chose to attend worship services. It won't kill you to stop and give God an hour or two out of your week.
We need to realize that Christianity is NOT a religion. It's a whole life system. I'm supposed to "seek first the kingdom" (Mt. 6: 33) everyday. There is a cost to following Christ (Luk. 9: 59-62). However, I cannot make that excuse for I live in a free country where I get to attend worship without fear of being persecuted. Being teased by friends is not being persecuted, by the way. Tell them to grow up and get over it. Unlike Christians in communist countries and dictatorships, I've never suffered physically for my faith. I would like to think I would have the fortitude to die rather than denounce Him. If I did remain faithful under those conditions, I would be rewarded for my obedience (Mt. 19: 23-30; 2 Tim. 2: 3-4; Rev. 2: 10). That's the kind of commitment God expects from us. We in the Land of the Free are spoiled though, and sometimes we don't even give Him the bare minimum.
Hebrews 10: 24-25 tells us that we're not to forsake the assembly, but to come together for mutual encouragement. For me, meeting with fellow Christians helps me to regularly assess my own spiritual condition and recharge my batteries. Consider who else might be affected by your disinterest or decision to do something else, i.e., friends or spouses who aren't spiritually strong, children who look to you as an example, etc. You have an obligation to lead by example (Deut. 4: 9-10; Prov. 22: 6; and 1 Pet. 3: 1-2). We need to come together because:
A. We're commanded to study the Bible (2 Tim. 2: 15);
B. We need to gain knowledge with which to teach others (Heb. 5: 12);
C. We need to have a ready answer for the reason of our hope (1 Pet. 3: 15);
D. We need to be able to defend the faith (Jude 3);
E. We need to feed our souls (1 Pet. 2: 2); and
F. We need to be preparing for the Judgment (Jno. 12: 48). Have you considered what sort of people you will be spending eternity with if you choose not to be with your Christian friends? Think about that sometime.
In conclusion, I'll tell you what I've told my husband before: I need you because I love you. I don't love you because I need you.
When you're not around, I'm discouraged and I genuinely miss you. My mind makes a mental note that you've gone missing and I worry about you. I'll see you in church!
Love Ya,
God Bless!
Saturday, November 10, 2007
You Defintely Matter, Part II
I was riffling through my trusty Bible study notebook this morning, looking through thoughts to post, when I realized that I hadn't really completed the prior posting, "You Definitely Matter." So, here's the remainder:
Self Perception:
A. "The moment you alter your perception of yourself and your future, both you and your future begin to change." - Marilee Zdeneck
B. Is there someone in your life that sees potential in you that you can't see in yourself? You need to be around people who see you and treat you like who you want to become in order for you to realize who you really are meant to be. A real friend will have the attitude mirrored in Phil. 2: 3-4: "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only on your own interests, but also to the interests of others."
Dreams:
A. "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." -
Eleanor Roosevelt
B. "Our love is honed by our pain, enriched by our gratitude, revealed in our relationships, and expanded by our dreams." - Dr. Leslie Parrott
Making Your Mark:
A. You may have grand aspirations, but you're making your mark when you're up all night with a fussy baby; don't snub someone you feel deserves it; reveal your true self to a friend who always thinks you're strong; or encourage a disheartened friend.
B. Don't trip yourself up by comparing yourself to others. In doing so you're saying, "I don't want to be an original."
C. Do you diminish your contribution to society because of a fear of offending others?
A Band of Sisters:
A. Everything you do to enrich the lives of others will come back into your own life to bless you (Prov. 31: 10-31).
B. I need your voices to speak to my life with your own personal wisdom that comes from your multiple perspectives and experiences.
C. "Women hold power even over powerful men; such women mold public opinion and prepare future generations. Yes, women, in your hands, more than in those of anyone else, lies the salvation of the world." - Leo Tolstoy He's right, you know.
(i) 1 Pet. 3: 1-2 - winning your spouse over to the Lord by serving as an example;
(ii) Titus 2: 3-5 - you're responsible for training the next generation of future wives and mothers;
(a) Prov. 22: 6; 23: 13; 29: 15;
(b) Deut. 4: 9; 11: 18-21;
(c) 2 Tim. 3: 14-15
You Make A Difference When:
1. You care;
2. You encourage others;
3. You make a good decision;
4. You exert a little extra effort;
5. You ask the question that hasn't been asked yet (PLEASE DO!!);
6. You increase your knowledge;
7. You serve others;
8. You take action.
Closing Thoughts:
A. "I don't care." Those are three little words that wound any heart that desires to make a difference. They can also be implied through our actions and not spoken.
B. If you procrastinated to do a kindness, you may have waited too long.
C. You can only avoid being criticized by others if you do nothing and say nothing; but then you'll be nothing.
D. Don't give critics the authority to guide your life. Just do your personal best.
Love Ya,
GOD BLESS!!
Self Perception:
A. "The moment you alter your perception of yourself and your future, both you and your future begin to change." - Marilee Zdeneck
B. Is there someone in your life that sees potential in you that you can't see in yourself? You need to be around people who see you and treat you like who you want to become in order for you to realize who you really are meant to be. A real friend will have the attitude mirrored in Phil. 2: 3-4: "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only on your own interests, but also to the interests of others."
Dreams:
A. "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." -
Eleanor Roosevelt
B. "Our love is honed by our pain, enriched by our gratitude, revealed in our relationships, and expanded by our dreams." - Dr. Leslie Parrott
Making Your Mark:
A. You may have grand aspirations, but you're making your mark when you're up all night with a fussy baby; don't snub someone you feel deserves it; reveal your true self to a friend who always thinks you're strong; or encourage a disheartened friend.
B. Don't trip yourself up by comparing yourself to others. In doing so you're saying, "I don't want to be an original."
C. Do you diminish your contribution to society because of a fear of offending others?
A Band of Sisters:
A. Everything you do to enrich the lives of others will come back into your own life to bless you (Prov. 31: 10-31).
B. I need your voices to speak to my life with your own personal wisdom that comes from your multiple perspectives and experiences.
C. "Women hold power even over powerful men; such women mold public opinion and prepare future generations. Yes, women, in your hands, more than in those of anyone else, lies the salvation of the world." - Leo Tolstoy He's right, you know.
(i) 1 Pet. 3: 1-2 - winning your spouse over to the Lord by serving as an example;
(ii) Titus 2: 3-5 - you're responsible for training the next generation of future wives and mothers;
(a) Prov. 22: 6; 23: 13; 29: 15;
(b) Deut. 4: 9; 11: 18-21;
(c) 2 Tim. 3: 14-15
You Make A Difference When:
1. You care;
2. You encourage others;
3. You make a good decision;
4. You exert a little extra effort;
5. You ask the question that hasn't been asked yet (PLEASE DO!!);
6. You increase your knowledge;
7. You serve others;
8. You take action.
Closing Thoughts:
A. "I don't care." Those are three little words that wound any heart that desires to make a difference. They can also be implied through our actions and not spoken.
B. If you procrastinated to do a kindness, you may have waited too long.
C. You can only avoid being criticized by others if you do nothing and say nothing; but then you'll be nothing.
D. Don't give critics the authority to guide your life. Just do your personal best.
Love Ya,
GOD BLESS!!
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
You Definitely Matter
It's easy to be self-deprecating in regard to one's own significance. We may feel that if we don't possess wealth, power, or fame, that we have no influence with others. Don't be deceived. Someone somewhere is looking to you as their guide. You expect to be able to hold sway over your spouse, your children, and perhaps some assorted extended family members; but more than likely you make an impact on others you feel you have no significant connection with.
Cut yourself some slack. Realize your own uniqueness. Unless you're an identical twin, no one else on earth can compare to you. Rather, think of yourself as an "original-one-of-a-kind." You've been designed by God to make your own distinct difference in the world.
Consider Jeremiah 29: 11, which is one of my personal favorites: "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." God sent this message to his people during their Babylonian captivity, but I don't think it's taking it out of context to use it as a morale booster. I think he feels the same way about His children today.
Consider Galatians 6: 4-5 which says, "Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else, for each one should carry his own load." I think it's fine and good to have positive role models. I have a few of my own. However, God made only one me and I have to make my own mark on society. I don't want to be "just like" anyone, really. I want to be the best "sokmnkee" I can be. Who have your role models been and why? Consider both the good and bad ones and the gravity of their influence on you. Also, what would you do to make a difference in the world if you had unlimited time and resources? For instance, I always thought that if I were ever rich that lots of people would get fed, clothed, sent to school, have their medical bills paid, and a roof over their heads. I say that because I know how much it takes my family to get by--not very much.
Gratitude's Role:
Gratitude is a primary key to achieving personal happiness. Thankful people are more joyful, healthier, less stressed, more optimistic, and more likely to express benevolence.
Gratitude comes from the word, "grace." The more of it you cultivate yourself, the more of it you will willingly bestow on others.
Gratitude begets humility. The Masai tribe of West Africa has an unusual way of expressing thanks. They say, "My head is in the dirt." They then put their foreheads on the ground to show their gratitude with humility. Read the following and ponder these the next time you feel insignificant: Mt. 18:4; 23:12; Phil. 2:3-8; Titus 3:2; and 1 Pet. 5:5. You may not feel worth anything due to your own humble station in life, but that's not how God sees you.
Love Ya,
God Bless!
Cut yourself some slack. Realize your own uniqueness. Unless you're an identical twin, no one else on earth can compare to you. Rather, think of yourself as an "original-one-of-a-kind." You've been designed by God to make your own distinct difference in the world.
Consider Jeremiah 29: 11, which is one of my personal favorites: "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." God sent this message to his people during their Babylonian captivity, but I don't think it's taking it out of context to use it as a morale booster. I think he feels the same way about His children today.
Consider Galatians 6: 4-5 which says, "Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else, for each one should carry his own load." I think it's fine and good to have positive role models. I have a few of my own. However, God made only one me and I have to make my own mark on society. I don't want to be "just like" anyone, really. I want to be the best "sokmnkee" I can be. Who have your role models been and why? Consider both the good and bad ones and the gravity of their influence on you. Also, what would you do to make a difference in the world if you had unlimited time and resources? For instance, I always thought that if I were ever rich that lots of people would get fed, clothed, sent to school, have their medical bills paid, and a roof over their heads. I say that because I know how much it takes my family to get by--not very much.
Gratitude's Role:
Gratitude is a primary key to achieving personal happiness. Thankful people are more joyful, healthier, less stressed, more optimistic, and more likely to express benevolence.
Gratitude comes from the word, "grace." The more of it you cultivate yourself, the more of it you will willingly bestow on others.
Gratitude begets humility. The Masai tribe of West Africa has an unusual way of expressing thanks. They say, "My head is in the dirt." They then put their foreheads on the ground to show their gratitude with humility. Read the following and ponder these the next time you feel insignificant: Mt. 18:4; 23:12; Phil. 2:3-8; Titus 3:2; and 1 Pet. 5:5. You may not feel worth anything due to your own humble station in life, but that's not how God sees you.
Love Ya,
God Bless!
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
My Childish View of Heaven
I no longer worry about dying. I used to. I'm not saying that I want to die right away (too much living left to do, you know), but I'm no longer afraid of it like I used to be. I finally have peace through faith; and I've developed my own idea of what I think Heaven will be like, even although it's probably inaccurate or even childish. I think about Jesus saying, "In my Father's house are many rooms...." (Jno. 14: 2 NIV). I imagine my granddaddy and mom living in this enormous, gorgeous, and invitingly warm-looking mansion located in the middle of a field of wildflowers under a bright, cloudless sky. They're healthy, happy, and excited. They're preparing the home for the rest of their family for the great homecoming--just like during the holidays when I little. I know they're waiting for us. I think on this pet vision of mine often, and I smile.
Love Ya,
God Bless!
Love Ya,
God Bless!
When He Won't Go To Church With You
Sometimes, when I'm not concentrating enough on the sermon like I should be, I may be noticing my peers during the church service. Most are comprised of the entire family unit, but there are several families where one of them does not attend, and it's usually the husband. I know that his wife is probably suffering silent heartache because he's just not interested in spiritual matters. I know this because I experienced it myself for nearly 10 years in my own marriage--and I married a Christian!! Some people just aren't spiritually-minded at all. I'm happy to say that my husband finally turned a corner on that matter for which I'm so grateful.
When the husband and/or father doesn't attend services, it creates tension in the marriage (at least until the wife totally gives up herself and joins him) and sends mixed messages to any children they may have. Mommy loves the Lord, but Daddy hunts, fishes, watches ESPN on Sundays. Or, Mommy attends worship services and takes us, but Daddy doesn't give a care and thinks church is just for women and children. My own father fit the latter description. Church was somehow unmanly to him. However, what's more unmanly than not being the spiritual leader of your own household? It's his God-given appointment (Deut. 6: 6-9; Eph. 5: 25-33; 6: 1-4).
Girlfriends, if this describes your man, what can you do? Forget nagging. Screeching at him that he's going to Hell won't work and it will just embitter him worse against the notion of ever attending church with you. It's harder for spiritually mismatched couples to be and stay married, but it is possible. There's no guarantee that he'll ever attend church with you and you need to go ahead and accept that; but never neglect your children's and your own salvation by giving up the Lord yourself. There may be times when your husband gets angry with you for doing the right thing, but in that instance we're to obey God rather than man, even if that man is one's husband (Acts 5: 29). While we are to submit to our husbands (Eph. 5: 22), this should not be to the point of causing us to fall from grace.
Women can be drawn away from God by an unsaved husband, a husband of a different faith, or by a non-practicing Christian husband. That's why God warned the Israelites against marrying outside of their faith (Ex. 34: 15-16). King Solomon succumbed to the influences of his many pagan wives (1 Kings 11: 3-4).
In your role as a Christian wife, the only thing you can do is to serve as an example to him in how you conduct your own life (1 Pet. 3: 1-4). Be a quiet influence to him. Just be a good example regardless of what he does (Eph. 5: 1-4). You cannot change him if he isn't willing and he will have to eventually bear the consequences of his own sin (Gal. 6: 7-8). If you suffer verbal or emotional abuse for your actions you can be assured that God takes note of it and will reward you for your persecution as a Christian (1 Pet. 4: 14-16). Keep standing for the faith so that you can develop that character in your children. I can tell you that I would not be a Christian today if I not had a faithful Christian mother. You may have to bring your children up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord (Prov. 22: 6) yourself if their father will not. You will have to give an account of your for your own spiritual state to the Lord, not his (Rom. 14: 10-12). Continue to respect and love your husband as best you can, but don't allow him to pull you and your children away from God.
Love Ya,
God Bless!
When the husband and/or father doesn't attend services, it creates tension in the marriage (at least until the wife totally gives up herself and joins him) and sends mixed messages to any children they may have. Mommy loves the Lord, but Daddy hunts, fishes, watches ESPN on Sundays. Or, Mommy attends worship services and takes us, but Daddy doesn't give a care and thinks church is just for women and children. My own father fit the latter description. Church was somehow unmanly to him. However, what's more unmanly than not being the spiritual leader of your own household? It's his God-given appointment (Deut. 6: 6-9; Eph. 5: 25-33; 6: 1-4).
Girlfriends, if this describes your man, what can you do? Forget nagging. Screeching at him that he's going to Hell won't work and it will just embitter him worse against the notion of ever attending church with you. It's harder for spiritually mismatched couples to be and stay married, but it is possible. There's no guarantee that he'll ever attend church with you and you need to go ahead and accept that; but never neglect your children's and your own salvation by giving up the Lord yourself. There may be times when your husband gets angry with you for doing the right thing, but in that instance we're to obey God rather than man, even if that man is one's husband (Acts 5: 29). While we are to submit to our husbands (Eph. 5: 22), this should not be to the point of causing us to fall from grace.
Women can be drawn away from God by an unsaved husband, a husband of a different faith, or by a non-practicing Christian husband. That's why God warned the Israelites against marrying outside of their faith (Ex. 34: 15-16). King Solomon succumbed to the influences of his many pagan wives (1 Kings 11: 3-4).
In your role as a Christian wife, the only thing you can do is to serve as an example to him in how you conduct your own life (1 Pet. 3: 1-4). Be a quiet influence to him. Just be a good example regardless of what he does (Eph. 5: 1-4). You cannot change him if he isn't willing and he will have to eventually bear the consequences of his own sin (Gal. 6: 7-8). If you suffer verbal or emotional abuse for your actions you can be assured that God takes note of it and will reward you for your persecution as a Christian (1 Pet. 4: 14-16). Keep standing for the faith so that you can develop that character in your children. I can tell you that I would not be a Christian today if I not had a faithful Christian mother. You may have to bring your children up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord (Prov. 22: 6) yourself if their father will not. You will have to give an account of your for your own spiritual state to the Lord, not his (Rom. 14: 10-12). Continue to respect and love your husband as best you can, but don't allow him to pull you and your children away from God.
Love Ya,
God Bless!
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Opposing Abortion
I realize that there may be teenage and young adult ladies reading these posts. If so, I'm flattered by your interest and hope that you will write me and ask me to cover any topic that you have questions about.
I chose the abortion issue because I found the numbers relating to it mind-boggling. I'll also cop to stealing from of the stat numbers in Scott Gleaves' book, 'Seven Things A Loving God Hates.'
The now aged, free-love hippies of the 60's have done their worst to our culture. Unfortunately, many of them pursued careers in politics so they could continue to malign values of basic human decency just to show they could. Some parents choose to be friends to their children instead of authority figures. That's no different from painting "doormat" in neon on your forehead, because as enablers the parents relinquish their authoritative power. These are things I see strictly as a spectator of total strangers interacting, or failing to interact with their children. They've relinquished their parental rights so that their children won't be angry with them. That's bogus! Children have zero respect for someone who doesn't have the fortitude to set boundaries for them. Sure, they may scream about it now, but someday they'll thank you.
What I find most disturbing are young women (including many young teenagers) pregnant by some boy (yes, boy). Only a real man has the nerve to marry a woman and raise children. Anybody male can be a sperm donor. Still don't believe me? Here are some hard facts:
There are 40 million abortions performed annually worldwide. 126,000 abortions are performed daily worldwide, with 3,753 occurring in the United States alone. That equates out to 156 per hour, or one every 2 minutes.
The average age of the first sexual encounter for a young person, regardless of whether they profess to be a practicing Christian or not, is 14.9 years of age.
I have some personal thoughts regarding Roe vs. Wade: Regardless of whether abortion remains legal or not, we are all individually responsible for what happens to our own bodies. That applies to both substance and sexual abuse. Our bodies are on loan from God (Rom. 6:13; 1 Cor. 6: 19-20). Therefore, we do NOT have a right to do with it what we wish--especially when another human life becomes involved. Personally, I believe a woman's "right to choose" ends when she decides to have unprotected sex. In the instance of an unwanted/unexpected pregnancy, we do not have the right to end the child's life. Why? At 12 weeks, an unborn baby can wiggle its toes, turn its head, has fingerprints, and can feel pain. It's just as valid a human being as you or me.
More importantly, WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?
1. Life is God's gift and begins at conception.
A. Psa. 139: 13-16
B. Jer. 1: 5
C. Isa. 49: 1-5
D. Gal. 1: 15
2. God wants life for each individual (Acts. 17: 25-28).
3. We are composed of mind, body, and spirit, and God is our Father. Ergo, to
abort a baby separates that child's body from it's spirit (Jas. 2: 26).
4. God punishes those who shed innocent blood.
A. Prov. 6: 16-17
B. Luk. 16: 15 - some things can be legal, but still immoral
C. Prov. 17: 15 - condemning the innocent - a baby on trial
D. 2 Tim. 3: 1-3
E. Deut. 27: 25
F. Ex. 23: 7
5. God has spoken in defense of the unborn:
A. Amos 1: 13
B. Ex. 21: 22-25
C. 2 Kin. 23:10
D. Psa. 106: 37-43
E. Jer. 7:31
Conclusion: I would say that anyone who has ever been through an abortion needn't thing she's spiritually lost forever if she's taken that avenue out. One can be forgiven of anything they wish to be forgiven of. If this has ever happened to you, please know that the Father will always await you with open arms. If you're a younger woman experiencing pressure from a boyfriend about moving towards the next level, talk to to your mom, a trusted older woman or even me! Let us help you exercise logic to go with what you already know is morally right.
Bottom line: Sex is not nasty. Sex is not wrong in the context for which God intended it. It is a very biblical subject (Song of Songs is entirely devoted to married sex) and I'm not ashamed to answer any questions you may have.
Love Ya,
God Bless.
I chose the abortion issue because I found the numbers relating to it mind-boggling. I'll also cop to stealing from of the stat numbers in Scott Gleaves' book, 'Seven Things A Loving God Hates.'
The now aged, free-love hippies of the 60's have done their worst to our culture. Unfortunately, many of them pursued careers in politics so they could continue to malign values of basic human decency just to show they could. Some parents choose to be friends to their children instead of authority figures. That's no different from painting "doormat" in neon on your forehead, because as enablers the parents relinquish their authoritative power. These are things I see strictly as a spectator of total strangers interacting, or failing to interact with their children. They've relinquished their parental rights so that their children won't be angry with them. That's bogus! Children have zero respect for someone who doesn't have the fortitude to set boundaries for them. Sure, they may scream about it now, but someday they'll thank you.
What I find most disturbing are young women (including many young teenagers) pregnant by some boy (yes, boy). Only a real man has the nerve to marry a woman and raise children. Anybody male can be a sperm donor. Still don't believe me? Here are some hard facts:
There are 40 million abortions performed annually worldwide. 126,000 abortions are performed daily worldwide, with 3,753 occurring in the United States alone. That equates out to 156 per hour, or one every 2 minutes.
The average age of the first sexual encounter for a young person, regardless of whether they profess to be a practicing Christian or not, is 14.9 years of age.
I have some personal thoughts regarding Roe vs. Wade: Regardless of whether abortion remains legal or not, we are all individually responsible for what happens to our own bodies. That applies to both substance and sexual abuse. Our bodies are on loan from God (Rom. 6:13; 1 Cor. 6: 19-20). Therefore, we do NOT have a right to do with it what we wish--especially when another human life becomes involved. Personally, I believe a woman's "right to choose" ends when she decides to have unprotected sex. In the instance of an unwanted/unexpected pregnancy, we do not have the right to end the child's life. Why? At 12 weeks, an unborn baby can wiggle its toes, turn its head, has fingerprints, and can feel pain. It's just as valid a human being as you or me.
More importantly, WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?
1. Life is God's gift and begins at conception.
A. Psa. 139: 13-16
B. Jer. 1: 5
C. Isa. 49: 1-5
D. Gal. 1: 15
2. God wants life for each individual (Acts. 17: 25-28).
3. We are composed of mind, body, and spirit, and God is our Father. Ergo, to
abort a baby separates that child's body from it's spirit (Jas. 2: 26).
4. God punishes those who shed innocent blood.
A. Prov. 6: 16-17
B. Luk. 16: 15 - some things can be legal, but still immoral
C. Prov. 17: 15 - condemning the innocent - a baby on trial
D. 2 Tim. 3: 1-3
E. Deut. 27: 25
F. Ex. 23: 7
5. God has spoken in defense of the unborn:
A. Amos 1: 13
B. Ex. 21: 22-25
C. 2 Kin. 23:10
D. Psa. 106: 37-43
E. Jer. 7:31
Conclusion: I would say that anyone who has ever been through an abortion needn't thing she's spiritually lost forever if she's taken that avenue out. One can be forgiven of anything they wish to be forgiven of. If this has ever happened to you, please know that the Father will always await you with open arms. If you're a younger woman experiencing pressure from a boyfriend about moving towards the next level, talk to to your mom, a trusted older woman or even me! Let us help you exercise logic to go with what you already know is morally right.
Bottom line: Sex is not nasty. Sex is not wrong in the context for which God intended it. It is a very biblical subject (Song of Songs is entirely devoted to married sex) and I'm not ashamed to answer any questions you may have.
Love Ya,
God Bless.
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