Deo Volente

And yet, that void consumes me

2010-05-22T11:14:00.000-07:00

The past few months have been challenging. There have been a multitude of various trials and I have to admit, I have not always been joyful in spite of them. I feel more like I am in a void, pleading as David, "Hear my cry LORD. Be gracious to me and answer. How long will You hide Your face from me?" And yet, like David, I know that I would rather have a day in His courts and stand at the threshold of His house, than dwell in the tents of the wicked.

I see things crumbling all around me: Marriages, families, churches, individuals, my country. I find myself overwhelmed trying to fix everything... no power... no ability... eyes on self.

I know what the Bible says. I may even know the right thing to say and how to Biblically encourage others. I know the truth. I know the only hope.

And yet, that void consumes me. I want to hide...

But...

I will remember:

"My voice rises to God, and I will cry aloud; My voice rises to God, and He will hear me. In the day of my trouble I sought the Lord; In the night my hand was stretched out without weariness; My soul refused to be comforted. When I remember God, then I am disturbed; When I sigh, then my spirit grows faint. Selah.
You have held my eyelids open; I am so troubled that I cannot speak. I have considered the days of old, the years of long ago. I will remember my song in the night; I will meditate with my heart, and my spirit ponders: ...I shall remember the deeds of the LORD; Surely I will remember Your wonders of old. I will meditate on all Your work and muse on Your deeds.
Your way, O God, is holy;
What god is great like our God?
You are the God who works wonders;
You have made known
Your strength among the peoples.
You have by Your power redeemed Your people...

Read: When God Leaves No Footprints in the Sand

and: Miracles: A Reflection

Eyes off self
Eyes on Christ

...My only hope

Tears of Repentance

2010-05-05T22:42:00.000-07:00

ETERNAL FATHER, Thou art good beyond all thought, But I am vile, wretched, miserable, blind; My lips are ready to confess, but my heart is slow to feel, and my ways reluctant to amend. I bring my soul to thee; Break it, wound it, bend it, mould it. Unmask to me sin’s deformity, that I may hate it, abhor it, flee from it.

My faculties have been a weapon of revolt against thee; as a rebel I have misused my strength, and served the foul adversary of thy kingdom. Give me grace to bewail my insensate folly, grant me to know that the way of transgressors is hard, the evil paths are wretched paths, that to depart from thee is to lose all good.

I have seen the purity and beauty of thy perfect law, the happiness of those in whose heart it reigns, the calm dignity of the walk to which it calls, yet I daily violate and condemn its precepts. Thy loving Spirit strives within me, brings me Scripture warnings, speaks in startling Providences, allure by secret whispers yet i choose devices and desires to my own hurt, impiously recent, grieve, and provoke him to abandon me.

All these sins I mourn, lament, and for them cry pardon. Work in me more profound and abiding repentance; Give me the fullness of a godly grief that trembles and fears, yet ever trusts and loves, which is ever powerful, and ever confident; Grant that through the tears of repentance I may see more clearly the brightness and glories of the saving cross.

—The Valley of Vision: A Collection of Puritan Prayers and Devotions, (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1989), 70.

The Gospel shows us how unsparingly God deals with sin

2010-05-05T22:31:00.000-07:00

—From A. W. Pink, Studies on Saving Faith
It is generally recognized that spirituality is at a low ebb in Christendom and not a few perceive that sound doctrine is rapidly on the wane, yet many of the Lord’s people take comfort from supposing that the Gospel is still being widely preached and that large numbers are being saved thereby.
Alas, their optimistic supposition is ill-founded and sandy grounded. If the “message” now being delivered in Mission Halls be examined, if the “tracts” which are scattered among the unchurched masses be scrutinized, if the “open-air” speakers be carefully listened to, if the “sermons” or “addresses” of a “Soul-winning campaign” be analyzed; in short, if modern “Evangelism” be weighed in the balances of Holy Writ, it will be found wanting—
lacking that which is vital to a genuine conversion,
lacking what is essential if sinners are to be shown their need of a Saviour,
lacking that which will produce the transfigured lives of new creatures in Christ Jesus.
It is in no captious spirit that we write, seeking to make men offenders for a word. It is not that we are looking for perfection, and complain because we cannot find it; nor that we criticize others because they are not doing things as we think they should be done. No; no, it is a matter far more serious than that.
The “evangelism” of the day is not only superficial to the last degree, but it is radically defective. It is utterly lacking a foundation on which to base an appeal for sinners to come to Christ.
There is not only a lamentable lack of proportion (the mercy of God being made far more prominent than His holiness, His love than His wrath), but there is a fatal omission of that which God has given for the purpose of imparting a knowledge of sin.
There is not only a reprehensible introducing of “bright singing,” humorous witticisms and entertaining anecdotes, but there is a studied omission of the dark background upon which alone the Gospel can effectually shine forth.
But serious indeed as is the above indictment, it is only half of it—the negative side, that which is lacking. Worse still is that which is being retailed by the cheap-jack evangelists of the day.
The positive content of their message is nothing but a throwing of dust in the eyes of the sinner. His soul is put to sleep by the Devil’s opiate, ministered in a most unsuspecting form.
Those who really receive the “message” which is now being given out from most of the “orthodox” pulpits and platforms today, are being fatally deceived. It is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but unless God sovereignly intervenes by a miracle of grace, all who follow it will surely find that the ends thereof are the ways of death.
Tens of thousands who confidently imagine they are bound for Heaven, will get a terrible disillusionment when they awake in Hell.
What is the Gospel?
Is it a message of glad tidings from Heaven to make God-defying rebels at ease in their wickedness? Is it given for the purpose of assuring the pleasure-crazy young people that, providing they only “believe” there is nothing for them to fear in the future?
One would certainly think so from the way in which the Gospel is presented—or rather perverted—by most of the “evangelists,” and the more so when we look at the lives of their “converts.” Surely those with any degree of spiritual discernment must perceive that to assure such that God loves them and His Son died for them, and that a full pardon for all their sins (past, present, and future) can be obtained by simply “accepting Christ as their personal Saviour,” is but a casting of pearls before swine.
The Gospel is not a thing apart.
It is not something independent of the prior revelation of God’s Law. It is not an announcement that God has relaxed His justice or lowered the standard of His holiness. So far from that, when Scripturally expounded the Gospel presents the clearest demonstration and the climacteric proof of the inexorableness of God’s justice and of His infinite abhorrence of sin.
But for Scripturally expounding the Gospel, beardless youths and business men who devote their spare time to “evangelistic effort” are quite unqualified. Alas that the pride of the flesh suffers so many incompetent ones to rush in where those much wiser fear to tread.
It is this multiplying of novices that is largely responsible for the woeful situation now confronting us, and because the “churches” and “assemblies” are so largely filled with their “converts,” explains why they are so unspiritual and worldly.
No, my reader, the Gospel is very, very far from making light of sin.
The Gospel shows us how unsparingly God deals with sin.
It reveals to us the terrible sword of His justice smiting His beloved Son in order that atonement might be made for the transgressions of His people.
So far from the Gospel setting aside the Law, it exhibits the Saviour enduring the curse of it. Calvary supplied the most solemn and awe-inspiring display of God’s hatred of sin that time or eternity will ever furnish.
And do you imagine that the Gospel is magnified or God glorified by going to worldlings and telling them that they “may be saved at this moment by simply accepting Christ as their personal Saviour” while they are wedded to their idols and their hearts still in love with sin? If I do so, I tell them a lie, pervert the Gospel, insult Christ, and turn the grace of God into lasciviousness.

Do you want to know God's Will?

2010-04-28T00:55:00.000-07:00

In I Thessalonians 5, it says these things are "God's will for [true saving faith believers] in Christ Jesus"... so if you ever can't figure out God's will, start with what God says His will is for you in His Word. In context, this is primarily God's will for the body of Christ within their local assembly:

1. Be alert and sober (Prepare your minds for action!)

2. Fully armed and ready ("breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet, the hope of salvation."... In other words, STAND FIRM!)

3. encourage one another/ build one another up (Edify!)

4. appreciate those who diligently labor among you, and have charge over you in the Lord and give you instruction (Let them do their work with joy and not grief. Part of Appreciating them is not just expressing it verbally, but YOU, as a part of your church body, fulfilling God's will in these things we see here in I Thessalonians 5)

5. esteem them very highly in love because of their work (They are worthy of double honor)

6. Live in peace with one another (Be salty salt!)

7. admonish the unruly (busy-bodies, gossips, troublesome meddlers, unjust accusers, those that spread dissension and create contentious factions)

8. encourage the fainthearted (the anxious and fearful)

9. help the weak (yes, we are to help the orphans, widows, the oppressed, the needy, the feeble and the sick, but this Scripture actually specifically includes also "the weak in faith" according to Romans 14 and I Corinthians 8)

10. be patient with everyone (not just the one's that are easy to be patient with. See James 5:20 and Proverbs 10:12 and remember "love is patient")

11. See that no one repays another with evil for evil (I Peter 3:9)

12. ALWAYS seek after that which is good for one another and for all people (that which is good according to God, not man)

13. Rejoice always (no matter the trial, affliction, hardship... how? Because of that SURE HOPE IN CHRIST)

14. pray without ceasing (Ephesians 6:18)

15. in everything give thanks (even the trials, afflictions, hardships... they can be great reminders of that sure hope in Christ)

16. Do not quench the Spirit

17. do not despise prophetic utterances, But examine everything carefully (Be a Berean)

18. hold fast to that which is good (according to God and not man)

19. abstain from every form of evil (including that which gives the appearance of evil)

"Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved complete, without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.' Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass."-I Thess 5:23-24

Think about this... were you assuming that most of the above was the responsibility of just your Pastor, Elders and Deacons? According to God's Word, these things are the responsibility of the church body. They are "God's will for you in Christ Jesus"

Two-step God-Centered "Repentance Program"

2010-04-12T08:10:00.000-07:00

I have been prayerfully preparing to teach the Ladies of Legacy in Ephesians 2:1-7. This portion of Scripture sums up beautifully the doctrine of the Total Depravity of Man as well as the Doctrine of Grace. It has been INCREDIBLE to study these foundational doctrines to prepare to teach them.

I was supposed to teach this material tomorrow (April 13th), but we have prayerfully pushed back our scheduled teaching time in Ephesians this week to spend time in fervent, focused prayer as well as discuss this past Sunday's sermon that answered the question, "What is the nature of the church?" We will resume our regular teaching in Ephesians next time we meet (which is the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month). You can find our church's new sermon series here: What is the Church? That link will lead you to my church website with the mp3's of my pastor, Chris Taylor. Trust me, it is EXCELLENT!

To prepare for when we go over the material in Ephesians 2:1-7 (April 27th), I want you to think of practical applications of these great doctrines and then answer the questions within this post to prepare for our next meeting. Why? Because instead of me "teaching" I will lead you all into a round-table discussion on these practical applications and yes, Ladies of Legacy, we will be taping the whole thing and making it available as an mp3 on our church website with the rest of our series HERE. (no pressure)

I will give you one example of how to apply these doctrines in your marriage. I was inspired to write this 2-step program from Adrian Warnock's post HERE.

1. Step one: Know and understand the Doctrine of the Total Depravity of Man. If you do:

a. You will be rightly reminded that your spouse is married to a sinner

b. You will more fully understand that because you are a sinner, it is tough to be married to you

2. Step Two: Know and understand the Doctrine of Grace… which is to remember what it means to be saved by grace alone. If you do:

a. You will not burden your spouse with expectations he will never meet

b. It will remind you that your spouse’s performance is not the basis of your acceptance of him, any more than your performance is the basis of God’s acceptance of you.

These 2 God-centered steps are not only easier to keep up with then 12 man-centered ones, but when you do sin, they are far more likely to lead you to: “The sorrow that is according to the will of God [that] produces a repentance without regret …” (2 Cor 7) and help you comprehend that your “adequacy is from God.” (2 Cor 3)

As our Elder, Jeremy, would say, “ God, His Word, and the Spirit of Christ are sufficient to save, and therefore are sufficient to sanctify. The introduction of external, pragmatic human enterprises deployed in an attempt to “supplement” the divine work of salvation or sanctification only serves as a hindrance, and subsequently robs the sinner of the very means by which God has ordained to deliver him…….namely, repentance. [Man-centered] “recovery programs “… distance [believers] from God’s omnisciently-architected “repentance program”. … the more we foolishly rely upon and glory in our “programs”, the greater we distance ourselves from that [God-centered, fully sufficient provision of grace].”

Warning: Applying the two steps above will likely result in the following when you do fall into sin:

(1) You will fall to your knees, possibly to your face, & repent

(2) You will pray for wisdom, forgiveness, and strength

(3) You will search the Scriptures

(4) You will humbly seek the Spirit-led counsel and accountability of godly elders and believer - within your own assembly - who are willing to “…bear one another’s burdens and so fulfill the Law of Christ” (Gal 6)

(5) In this process of your sanctification, you will grow in His grace and knowledge and be utterly humbled by it

Now, I want to encourage you to prayerfully answer the following questions to prepare for our round-table discussion:

What does it mean we were dead in our trespasses and sins?
What does it mean that we were made alive?
How can I apply the 2 step "repentance program" to parenting?
...to friendships?
...as a member of my church?
...if I am anxious or depressed?
...to unbelievers?
...to struggling believers?
...to people that annoy me?

As you prepare, I want to remind you that sin is sin before God. Knowing the Doctrine of the Total Depravity of Man should cause us to value human relationships and not have such a low view of humans that we forget that we are all made in the image of God. People are worth our time. Having such a high view of man that we fail to recognize that God alone deserves to be on a pedestal is another danger. Let's prayerfully keep the pendulum in balance.

Jesus is a friend of who? Sinners. Jesus said "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners."

The way we share the Gospel with a prostitute or an ex-con would foundationally be the same as a college graduate or successful business man. The way we minister to them will probably look different, as long as we are, as Jesus, not respecters of persons in the sense that we treat a rich man better than a poor man, etc.

Trust me, the prostitute could be genuinely repentant and the prideful, successful business man, though impressive on the outside, could be still utterly corrupt and unrepentant. In God's eyes, their sin is the same and yet He looks down on the one who is repentant with compassion and the one who is glorying in himself with perfect, and just wrath. One as redeemed, the other as His enemy.

Remember, apart from God we are all wicked and corrupt worms. Doesn't matter how pretty you look on the outside, how successful you are in this world- Not in the eyes of God... where it counts eternally.

Total Depravity of Man and New Birth

2010-04-07T01:48:00.000-07:00

This is a re-do of a sketch I found on Sound Clear. (I re-did it in Microsoft Publisher) You will see a slight difference in wording inspired by one of the Elders at my church. If anyone knows the originator of this chart, I would like to give them credit.

The Hope of His Calling

2010-03-13T08:51:00.000-08:00

by Arthur W. Pink

"The eyes of your understanding being enlightened, that ye may know what is the hope of His calling."

Ephesians 1:18

What is Meant by "His calling"?

In former times (before the Reformation) we worshipped God after a false manner: we had purgatory, indulgences, the idolatrous mass, the Scriptures locked up in an unknown tongue, invocation of saints and angels, image-worship. O what cause have we to bless God for delivering us from popery!

If it be a great blessing to be delivered from Egypt, popish idolatry; then it shows their sin and folly, who, being brought out of Egypt, are willing to return into Egypt again; having put off the yoke of Rome, would fain put it on again. The apostle says, "Flee from idolatry." But these rather flee to idolatry; herein they are like the people of Israel, who, notwithstanding all the idolatry and tyranny of Egypt, yet longed to go back to Egypt; "Let us make a captain and let us return into Egypt" (Num. 14:4). But how shall they go back into Egypt? How shall they have food in the wilderness? Will God rain down manna any more upon such rebels? How will they get over the sea? Will God divide the water again by miracle for such as leave His service, and go into idolatrous Egypt? Yet they say, Let us make a captain, —And are there not such spirits amongst us, who say, "Let us make a captain, and go back to the Romish Egypt again?" And if we do, what shall we get by it? I am afraid the leeks and onions of Egypt will make us sick. Do we ever think, if we drink in the cup of fornication, we shall drink in the cup of salvation? O that any should so forfeit their reason, as to enslave themselves to the see of Rome! That they should be willing to hold a candle to a mass-priest, and bow down to a strange god. Let us not say we will make a captain; but rather say as Ephraim, "What have I to do any more with idols?" Pray that the true Protestant religion may still flourish among us, that the sun of the gospel may still shine in our horizon.

What are the essential elements of the gospel?

2010-02-17T19:19:00.000-08:00

The Final Four (9Marks.org)

Whenever we talk about the gospel, it is helpful and important to remember the four essentials: God, man, Christ, response.

God is both our sovereign Creator and our righteous Judge.

You alone are the Lord. You have made the heavens, the heaven of heavens with all their host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them. You give life to all of them and the heavenly host bows down before You (Neh 9:6).
Let the rivers clap their hands, let the mountains sing together for joy before the Lord, for He is coming to judge the earth; He will judge the world with righteousness and the peoples with equity (Ps 98:9).
God therefore has the right of ownership over us by virtue of creating us, and he has the right to punish or reward us by virtue of his royal, judicial office. And because God is both our Creator and Judge, we are doubly accountable to Him for all our behavior - word, thought, and deed.

Man was created by God, in God's image, to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. But man sinned against God by disobeying His holy law. Man therefore separated himself from God's holy and satisfying presence, and incurred His wrathful displeasure.

God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them (Gen 1:27).
For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Rom 3:23).
For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness (Rom 1:18).

Jesus Christ's death was the substitute payment for the penalty that we deserved for our sin. His death is God's only provision for the forgiveness of man's sin and the appeasement of God's wrath against him.

All we like sheep have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; but the Lord has caused the iniquity of us all to fall on Him (Isa 53:6).
He who believes in the Son has eternal life; but he who does not obey the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him (John 3:36).
And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men by which we must be saved (Acts 4:12).

We are called to respond to this good news in repentance and belief - turning away from our sin and self-sufficiency toward God, and trusting in the shed blood of Jesus Christ as the substitute penalty that we deserved for our sin.

The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel (Mark 1:15).
Thus it is written, that the Christ would suffer and rise again from the dead the third day, and that repentance for forgiveness of sins would be proclaimed in His name to all the nations, beginning from Jerusalem (Luke 24:46-47).

http://marks.9marks.org/Mark3/LessonD/Slide1of6

Why prepare your testimoy and tips on how to do it

2010-02-17T17:01:00.000-08:00

A.Why Prepare Your Testimony?

1. The Apostle Peter challenged us to: "Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have." (1 Peter 3:15) This becomes the primary reason for giving your testimony. With it, you tell others about how Jesus Christ gave you new life, has changed (and is changing) your life, and given you the hope of heaven. Truly it is a first-hand account, even as the Apostle John wrote, "We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard..." (1 John 1:3).

2. In Acts 26, the Apostle Paul testified before King Agrippa. Paul told him simply, logically, and clearly about his life before salvation, how he met Christ, and what his life was like afterwards. If you read Paul's testimony, aloud in a conversational manner, it takes about three or four minutes.

3. As you begin writing out your testimony, ask the Lord for wisdom and insight. Remember, God gives His wisdom liberally and without reproach as it says in James 1.

4. Many who have undertaken writing out and proclaiming their testimony have said that the work on the testimony was one of the most beneficial parts of their training. Why use the word training here? As believers in Christ, we are all called to the Great commission. All of us, even if we do not have the gift of evangelism, are to proclaim the Good News. As believers in Christ, given the greatest gift of all time, how can we not share the true Gospel? It is a part of our “training in righteousness” (2 Tim. 3:16); our calling to train or “discipline [ourselves] for the purpose of godliness” (I Tim. 4:6-8)

5. Do you have to be a trained speaker, eloquent in speech? NO. Not at all. Just a willing and even eager vessel used by God, “prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have." Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 11 that he was NOT a trained speaker, but he did speak boldly and without hesitation the Gospel of God. Give time, thought, and prayer to this important part of your training in discipleship.

B. Preparing a Personal Testimony: General Comments

The amount of time and effort it will take each of you to prepare your personal testimony will vary greatly. This has little to do with your intelligence or spirituality. It is a result of the complexity of your story. Some testimonies are extremely difficult to communicate clearly. Some have to be condensed to manageable length. Others need to be expanded. So there are many factors which influence how long it will take you to complete your written testimony. If yours comes quickly and easily, don't be proud. And if the preparation seems to be more difficult for you than others, don't be discouraged. Be consistent in prayer for yourself and your fellow sisters in Christ who are learning with you.

C. The General Outline of a Personal Testimony

1. Before - a short sketch of what your life was like before you became a Christian. Before I became a Christian, I lived and thought this way?

2.How - how, specifically, you came to become a Christian. How did I become a Christian?
a) Communicate the Gospel clearly and briefly

b) The fact of sin (use God's law!) --“All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”

c) The penalty for sin “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:23

d) Christ's payment of that penalty (God’s righteous requirement and Christ’s willingness) --"He [the Father] made him [the Son] to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God" --2 Cor. 5:21

e) That there was nothing you could do to save yourself. Good works are not enough. Even our good works are as filthy rags apart from Christ. (Read I John 1:8-10)

f) The requirement to trust (believe) in Jesus' completed work on the cross. (God’s grace) --"He that believes on Him is not condemned; but he that believes not is condemned already...." John 3:18

g) It isn't enough to believe that Jesus is the One that you think He is; you must believe that He is the One He claimed to be. He claimed to be God by such phrases as "I am the bread of life..." (Jn. 6:35), "...he that believeth on Me shall never thirst" (Jn. 6:35a), "...I am the light of the world..." (Jn. 8:12b), "I am the good shepherd..." (Jn. 10:11a), "I am the door..." (Jn. 10:9a), "I am the resurrection, and the life..." (Jn. 11:25a), "I am the way, the truth, and the life..." (Jn. 14:6a). Therefore, because Jesus was identifying Himself with God, saving faith not only becomes a question of turning from sin, but trusting the Son as well. It's a question of believing Jesus is who He claimed to be. You ask, "Well then, am I going to die in my sin unless I believe that He is all that He claimed to be?" That's right. You ought to find out who He claimed to be, for Romans 10:17 says faith comes by hearing a message about Christ. You can never have true faith unless you hear the truth about Christ. (Some of the old translations say, "...faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." But the best Greek manuscripts say, "...by the word of Christ.") True faith is the result of hearing and believing with your heart that Jesus is who He claimed to be, and that God verified that claim by raising Him from the dead (Rom. 10:9).

h) Jesus was guilty of nothing. Yet on the cross, the Father treated Him as if He had committed personally every sin ever committed by every individual who would ever believe. Though He was blameless, He faced the full fury of God's wrath, enduring the penalty of sin on behalf of those He came to save. In this way, the sinless Son of God became the perfect substitute for the sinful sons of men. As a result of Christ's sacrifice, the elect become the righteousness of God in Him. In the same way that the Father treated the Son as a sinner, even though the Son was sinless, the Father now treats believers as righteous, even though they were unrighteous. Jesus exchanged His life for sinners in order to fulfill the elective plan of God.-John MacArthur

i) Always uphold the Bible as the authority. Don't say "Mike told me that I was a sinner," say "Mike shared with me from the Bible that I..."
3.After - relating the changes in your life. After I became a Christian, what changes took place?
a)two or three personal changes (benefits) of becoming a Christian.

b)You should be able to pull from current evidences in your life that it is changed and not just from way back when.

c)If you cannot use current evidences, then you may want to “examine your faith”
4.Scripture or life verse. Pertinent verse that comes to mind when thinking of your salvation in Christ?

D. Preparation Tips

1.Even before you begin writing, pray for God's help. Look to Him for wisdom.

2.Make three separate headings labeled Before, How, After and write key words to help you remember what you mean

3.Make a draft using what you have written in your three notes. Read it conversationally and time yourself.

4.Make improvements on your draft (simplify, keeping essential details).

5.Make a new (maybe final) draft. It should read at 3 to 5 minutes long.

6.Now make an outline of your presentation on a 3" x 5" index cards or write it out. Whatever is more comfortable.

E.Two Formats

1.Chronological... Before — Salvation — After — Eternity

2.Flashback... Before — Now — Salvation — Eternity

Note: The ‘flashback’ works better if the "how" is very short or there's more that you want to share about "now".

D. Common Pitfalls in Preparation.

1.Too cautious in your first draft. It's rough. Even if it's long, get it down. You can shorten it later.

2.Too much dwelling on the past.

3.Let people know that you are a human being saved by the grace of God alone. Avoid sounding super-spiritual as though you’ve arrived. Only Christ has.

4.Don’t have an exact date of your conversion? Sometimes there is more than one time/event that led to conversion. If you are not sure, ask a spiritual leader (elder) for help to sort this out.

5.Procrastinating. Putting it off doesn't get it done.

6.Don’t get caught up in what other’s may think of you.

7.“…concern yourself with what is true… present [your testimony with the Gospel] as clearly, and as accurately as possible. If we are faithful in that, the soil God has prepared will bear fruit. His Word will not return void.” –John MacArthur

8.You are not a commercial pitchmen and you are without excuse. You are Christ’s ambassadors (2 Cor 5:20). God’s Word does not say that proclaiming the Gospel is optional or someone else’s gift. It is a command to every Christian to proclaim the Gospel. How can we not share what God has so greatly accomplished while we were yet sinners? The fear of man is no excuse.

9.“Paul was not ashamed of the gospel (Rom 1:16). He willingly suffered for the truth’s sake (2 Cor 11:23-28). He did not back down in the face of opposition or rejection. He did not adjust the truth to make unbelievers happy. He did not make friends with the enemies of God.” –John MacArthur

10.“If anything, the obligation to communicate the truth of the gospel clearly and accurately weighs more heavily on our generation than on those who have gone before us, because our opportunities are so much greater. Luke 12:48 says, “From everyone who has been given much shall much be required. No previous generation has been blessed with the means of mass communication like ours.” –John MacArthur (no excuses) Read Romans 10:17

11.Remember, “There is no neutral ground, no purgatory, no waiting place in this day and age. Hell may have different designations as to its final form and identity, but there are only two places-- heaven, where God is, or hell, where God is not. You may have heard the old line, "He had nobody to blame but himself." That is actually biblical. There may be a big theological argument about who is responsible when people get saved--whether it's God, or whether men have anything to do with it--but there's no question about who is responsible in the Bible when people go to hell, because it says that men choose.” (read Romans 1:20)

Ordo Salutis

2010-02-08T12:13:00.000-08:00

Above is a handout I just finished for the Women of Legacy. If you click on the picture above, it will make it much bigger. This chart goes with my teaching on Ephesians 1:3-6. I will be bringing up the ordo salutis or the order of salvation in the teaching.

Salvation is instantaneous, but there is a causal order .Though the benefits of our salvation cannot really be separated, it is helpful to distinguish what they are. This is not a chronological order per say, but the quote-unquote "order of salvation" happens simultaneously like heat and fire. (see Monergism.com)

· The result of our election (or God's choosing of all who would be saved apart from our faith) is first regeneration (regeneration is the work of the Holy Spirit which brings us into a living union with Christ opening our spiritual eyes and renewing our affections… this is the effectual call of a believer unto salvation. This is not a general call in the proclamation of the Gospel, but a specific calling that literally raises us from the spiritually dead to spiritually alive. Apart from this call, we have no ability, just like Lazarus, to raise ourselves from the dead. "Regeneration is a temporal [in time] manifestation of the eternal election.... Regeneration applies in time what God has ordained in eternity... [and] is the 'hinge' of God's redemptive purpose."-Jeremy Clark, Elder of Legacy Baptist Church)
· The result of our regeneration is faith/repentance (Faith is Belief and trust in the message of the Gospel (Ephesians 2:8-9) and is an effect of election rather than the cause of it, while repentance is Changing one's mind from rejection of Christ to faith in Christ (Acts 26:20). This repentance is far more than remorse. It is a complete change of thought and action towards sin)
· The result of faith is justification (God's freeing of one from the penalty of sin - the pronouncement of "not guilty" on a sinner (Romans 5:9) "To the one who does not work, but believes in Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is reckoned as righteousness" -Rom. 4:5).
· The result of justification is adoption (adoption gives us the privileges of being a child of God and makes us joint heirs with Christ. It is, then, our faith that brings us into the realization that we are adopted and set free from the bondage of the law.
· The result of adoption is sanctification (this once for all time sanctification is God's separation of the true beleiver from the lure of sin (2 Timothy 2:21)
· The complexion of sanctification is perseverance; (This complexion of Sanctification includes both the initial once and for all sanctification or separation from the lure of sin and the ongoing process of being sanctified where we fight, and watch and pray and strive and labor toward holiness for God’s glory knowing that this labor is not in vain as it is God’s work within us that causes us to grow in His grace and knowledge as we strive knowing that while on earth this process prepares us to enjoy heaven where this work will be perfected. Yep, run-on sentence big time)
· and the reward of perseverance is glorification God's final removal of all sin from the life and presence of one (in the eternal state) (Romans 8:18; 2 Corinthians 4:17).

Please take the time to look up the Scriptures I have provided on the handout that will help you in further understanding this beautiful work of salvation. Seeking to understand this will help you give God the glory for His election, because it resulted in your faith. Otherwise, you will take credit for your faith and will have reason to glory in yourself and become prideful....

You can find the mp3 teaching for Lesson 2 that this post goes with at my pastor's blog here: Titus 1:9 Blog

What God's Word says about being Elected, Chosen, Predestined, Foreknown, Adopted

2010-02-08T11:59:00.000-08:00

ELECT

Matthew 24:22
"Unless those days had been cut short, no life would have been saved; but for the sake of the elect those days will be cut short.
Matthew 24:21-23 (in Context) Matthew 24 (Whole Chapter)
Matthew 24:24
"For false Christs and false prophets will arise and will show great signs and wonders, so as to mislead, if possible, even the elect.
Matthew 24:23-25 (in Context) Matthew 24 (Whole Chapter)
Matthew 24:31
"And He will send forth His angels with A GREAT TRUMPET and THEY WILL GATHER TOGETHER His elect from the four winds, from one end of the sky to the other.
Matthew 24:30-32 (in Context) Matthew 24 (Whole Chapter)
Mark 13:20
"Unless the Lord had shortened those days, no life would have been saved; but for the sake of the elect, whom He chose, He shortened the days.
Mark 13:19-21 (in Context) Mark 13 (Whole Chapter)
Mark 13:22
for false Christs and false prophets will arise, and will show signs and wonders, in order to lead astray, if possible, the elect.
Mark 13:21-23 (in Context) Mark 13 (Whole Chapter)
Mark 13:27
"And then He will send forth the angels, and will gather together His elect from the four winds, from the farthest end of the earth to the farthest end of heaven.
Mark 13:26-28 (in Context) Mark 13 (Whole Chapter)
Luke 18:7
now, will not God bring about justice for His elect who cry to Him day and night, and will He delay long over them?
Luke 18:6-8 (in Context) Luke 18 (Whole Chapter)
Romans 8:33
Who will bring a charge against God's elect? God is the one who justifies;
Romans 8:32-34 (in Context) Romans 8 (Whole Chapter)

CHOSEN

· Matthew 12:18 " BEHOLD, MY SERVANT WHOM I HAVE CHOSEN; MY BELOVED IN WHOM MY SOUL is WELL-PLEASED; I WILL PUT MY SPIRIT UPON HIM, AND HE SHALL PROCLAIM JUSTICE TO THE GENTILES.
Matthew 12:17-19 (in Context) Matthew 12 (Whole Chapter)

· Matthew 22:14
"For many are called, but few are chosen."
Matthew 22:13-15 (in Context) Matthew 22 (Whole Chapter)
· Mark 3:13
[ The Twelve Are Chosen ] And He went up on the mountain and summoned those whom He Himself wanted, and they came to Him.
Mark 3:12-14 (in Context) Mark 3 (Whole Chapter)
· Luke 1:9
according to the custom of the priestly office, he was chosen by lot to enter the temple of the Lord and burn incense.
Luke 1:8-10 (in Context) Luke 1 (Whole Chapter)
· Luke 9:35
Then a voice came out of the cloud, saying, " This is My Son, My Chosen One; listen to Him!"
Luke 9:34-36 (in Context) Luke 9 (Whole Chapter)
· Luke 10:42
but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her."
Luke 10:41-42 (in Context) Luke 10 (Whole Chapter)
· Luke 12:32
" Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom.
Luke 12:31-33 (in Context) Luke 12 (Whole Chapter)
· Luke 23:35
And the people stood by, looking on. And even the rulers were sneering at Him, saying, "He saved others; let Him save Himself if this is the Christ of God, His Chosen One."
Luke 23:34-36 (in Context) Luke 23 (Whole Chapter)
· John 13:18
" I do not speak of all of you I know the ones I have chosen; but it is that the Scripture may be fulfilled, ' HE WHO EATS MY BREAD HAS LIFTED UP HIS HEEL AGAINST ME.'
John 13:17-19 (in Context) John 13 (Whole Chapter)
· Acts 1:2
until the day when He was taken up to heaven, after He had by the Holy Spirit given orders to the apostles whom He had chosen.
Acts 1:1-3 (in Context) Acts 1 (Whole Chapter)
· Acts 1:24
And they prayed and said, "You, Lord, who know the hearts of all men, show which one of these two You have chosen
Acts 1:23-25 (in Context) Acts 1 (Whole Chapter)
· Acts 9:15
But the Lord said to him, "Go, for he is a chosen instrument of Mine, to bear My name before the Gentiles and kings and the sons of Israel;
Acts 9:14-16 (in Context) Acts 9 (Whole Chapter)
· Acts 10:41
not to all the people, but to witnesses who were chosen beforehand by God, that is, to us who ate and drank with Him after He arose from the dead.
Acts 10:40-42 (in Context) Acts 10 (Whole Chapter)
· Romans 11:7
What then? What Israel is seeking, it has not obtained, but those who were chosen obtained it, and the rest were hardened;
Romans 11:6-8 (in Context) Romans 11 (Whole Chapter)
· 1 Corinthians 1:27
but God has chosen the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to shame the things which are strong,
1 Corinthians 1:26-28 (in Context) 1 Corinthians 1 (Whole Chapter)

1 Corinthians 1:28
and the base things of the world and the despised God has chosen, the things that are not, so that He may nullify the things that are,
1 Corinthians 1:27-29 (in Context) 1 Corinthians 1 (Whole Chapter)
Colossians 3:12
So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience;
Colossians 3:11-13 (in Context) Colossians 3 (Whole Chapter)
2 Thessalonians 2:13
But we should always give thanks to God for you, brethren beloved by the Lord, because God has chosen you from the beginning for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and faith in the truth.
2 Thessalonians 2:12-14 (in Context) 2 Thessalonians 2 (Whole Chapter)
1 Timothy 5:21
I solemnly charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus and of His chosen angels, to maintain these principles without bias, doing nothing in a spirit of partiality.
1 Timothy 5:20-22 (in Context) 1 Timothy 5 (Whole Chapter)
2 Timothy 2:10
For this reason I endure all things for the sake of those who are chosen, so that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus and with it eternal glory.
2 Timothy 2:9-11 (in Context) 2 Timothy 2 (Whole Chapter)
Titus 1:1
[ Salutation ] Paul, a bond-servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ, for the faith of those chosen of God and the knowledge of the truth which is according to godliness,
Titus 1:1-3 (in Context) Titus 1 (Whole Chapter)
1 Peter 1:1
[ A Living Hope, and a Sure Salvation ] Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who reside as aliens, scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, who are chosen
1 Peter 1:1-3 (in Context) 1 Peter 1 (Whole Chapter)
1 Peter 2:9
But you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR God's OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;
1 Peter 2:8-10 (in Context) 1 Peter 2 (Whole Chapter)

1 Peter 5:13
She who is in Babylon, chosen together with you, sends you greetings, and so does my son, Mark.
1 Peter 5:12-14 (in Context) 1 Peter 5 (Whole Chapter)
2 John 1:1
[ Walk According to His Commandments ] The elder to the chosen lady and her children, whom I love in truth; and not only I, but also all who know the truth,
2 John 1:1-3 (in Context) 2 John 1 (Whole Chapter)
2 John 1:13
The children of your chosen sister greet you.
2 John 1:12-13 (in Context) 2 John 1 (Whole Chapter)
Revelation 17:14
[ Victory for the Lamb ] "These will wage war against the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them, because He is Lord of lords and King of kings, and those who are with Him are the called and chosen and faithful."
Revelation 17:13-15 (in Context) Revelation 17 (Whole Chapter)

{{{NOTE: Consider going to Biblegateway.com to read through the many Scriptures in the Old Testament under the keyword search CHOSEN. It gives an even deeper view of God’s sovereignty}}}

Foreknew/ foreknowledge/ foreknown:

Romans 8:29
For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brethren;
Romans 8:28-30 (in Context) Romans 8 (Whole Chapter)
Romans 11:2
God has not rejected His people whom He foreknew Or do you not know what the Scripture says in the passage about Elijah, how he pleads with God against Israel?
Romans 11:1-3 (in Context) Romans 11 (Whole Chapter)
Acts 2:23
this Man, delivered over by the predetermined plan and foreknowledge of God, you nailed to a cross by the hands of godless men and put Him to death.
Acts 2:22-24 (in Context) Acts 2 (Whole Chapter)
1 Peter 1:2
according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, by the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to obey Jesus Christ and be sprinkled with His blood: May grace and peace be yours in the fullest measure.
1 Peter 1:1-3 (in Context) 1 Peter 1 (Whole Chapter)
1 Peter 1:20
For He was foreknown before the foundation of the world, but has appeared in these last times for the sake of you
1 Peter 1:19-21 (in Context) 1 Peter 1 (Whole Chapter)

Predestined:

Acts 4:28
to do whatever Your hand and Your purpose predestined to occur.
Acts 4:27-29 (in Context) Acts 4 (Whole Chapter)
Romans 8:29
For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brethren;
Romans 8:28-30 (in Context) Romans 8 (Whole Chapter)
Romans 8:30
and these whom He predestined, He also called; and these whom He called, He also justified; and these whom He justified, He also glorified.
Romans 8:29-31 (in Context) Romans 8 (Whole Chapter)
1 Corinthians 2:7
but we speak God's wisdom in a mystery, the hidden wisdom which God predestined before the ages to our glory;
1 Corinthians 2:6-8 (in Context) 1 Corinthians 2 (Whole Chapter)
Ephesians 1:5
He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will,
Ephesians 1:4-6 (in Context) Ephesians 1 (Whole Chapter)
Ephesians 1:11
also we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to His purpose who works all things after the counsel of His will,
Ephesians 1:10-12 (in Context) Ephesians 1 (Whole Chapter)

Adopt/ adoption:

Romans 8:15
For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, " Abba! Father!"
Romans 8:23
And not only this, but also we ourselves, having the first fruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our body.
Romans 8:22-24 (in Context) Romans 8 (Whole Chapter)
Romans 9:4
who are Israelites, to whom belongs the adoption as sons, and the glory and the covenants and the giving of the Law and the temple service and the promises,
Romans 9:3-5 (in Context) Romans 9 (Whole Chapter)
Galatians 4:5
so that He might redeem those who were under the Law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.
Galatians 4:4-6 (in Context) Galatians 4 (Whole Chapter)
Galatians 5:10
I have confidence in you in the Lord that you will adopt no other view; but the one who is disturbing you will bear his judgment, whoever he is.
Galatians 5:9-11 (in Context) Galatians 5 (Whole Chapter)
Ephesians 1:5
He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will,
Ephesians 1:4-6 (in Context) Ephesians 1 (Whole Chapter)

My Oldest 2 Boys' Band

2009-12-16T18:55:00.000-08:00

My boys' band played at a ministry this past weekend that provided over 500 struggling families the ability to give their children, over 1500 of them, a gift for Christmas. The place was packed and I especially enjoyed encouraging, praying and sharing the Gospel with the hurting families. My oldest son, Josh, is 16 and plays the electric guitar. My 2nd oldest son, Brandon, is 14 and plays the bass guitar. The drummer, Garrison, is 13 (almost 14) and never played on this drum set before that night. He did not even have time to practice (you cannot tell at all... he is very gifted). They asked Garrison to use their set because they did not have the ability to mic his set properly.
Here are just a few clips I wanted to share:

Christ-Life Tree

2009-12-09T17:21:00.000-08:00

I posted this here because a friend asked.

We started a tradition a few years back with our children by putting up a Christ-Life Tree instead of a Christmas tree. It is 12 feet tall, but you can make it smaller. It is a bit like an over-sized advent calendar. We put one ornament a day on the tree that depicts the life of Christ, talk about that ornament, what it means, the Scripture that goes with the ornament... all the way until the day of Christmas.

On each daily ornament, I literally attached a laminated scripture reference to the ornament so we would remember what Scripture to read and why that ornament somehow depicted the life of Christ. I punched a tiny hole in each one so that I could connect them with thread to each ornament. Some of the ornaments, we had to make ourselves, like the scroll. Since this was something we made up, we had to start from scratch and hunt down what would work. I am sure you may have other ideas for depicting the life of Christ. I tried to do mine in order from birth to death to resurrection, and as much as I could in between. But I did not get everything. Be creative. I was asked to market this idea because I could make a lot of money, but I just cannot bring myself to market the Life of Christ. Anyway, have fun with this. Be creative. It is truly a great tool for teaching our children about the life of our dear Savior and Lord.

· Day 1: Scroll ornament (Luke 2:1-20) I had to make my own. I photo copied the entire Scripture reference that I had printed onto paper with an old fashioned font on that same cream colored construction paper after having crumpled it. Then one of my older sons slightly burned the side edges (he's a pyro) and then glued each end, top and bottom, to a stick after having wrapped a bit of each of the papers top and bottom edges around the stick. I then tied ribbon to the top stick from end to end so that it would hang more easily on the tree.

· Day 2: Star ornament (Matthew 2:2)

· Day 3: Manger Ornament (Luke 2:7) I found one that has just Joseph, Mary and the baby. The wise men did not come to his birth. They came when he was a toddler. Again, not legalism. Just, well, true.

· Day 4: Angel Ornament (Luke 2:9) I found an ornament at a Christian book store that was a male. I have never read in the Bible an angel being called "she." This is preferential... not legalistic, so please don't e-mail me about this.

· Day 5: Shepherd Ornament (Luke 2:8-11) I found a resin ornament of a shepherd boy at that same Christian bookstore. The shepherds came on the day of Jesus' birth according to Luke 2:11.

· Day 6: Wise Men Bearing Gifts Ornament (Mt. 2:9-11) This Scripture says that they came when he was a young child "into the house"

· Day 7: Resin Hammer Ornament because He was a carpentar (Mark 6:3) found at a hobby store in the miniatures section. Jesus grew up being trained as a carpenter.

· Day 8: Stethoscope Ornament because He is the Great Physician (Mark 2:16-17) I use one of my husbands stethoscopes that I decorated with holly. Remember, Jesus’ earthly ministry began with miracles of healing. And no, they did not have stethoscopes back then. Don’t email me about this either.

· Day 9: Bundle of Wheat Ornament because He is the Bread of Life (John 6:51) I found a small bundle of wheat, sprayed it with clear coat finish and wrapped a ribbon around it.

· Day 10: Candle Ornament because he is the Light of the world (John 12:46) I use one of those fake candles that you can plug in and it lights up.

· Day 11: Lion of Judah Ornament (Revelation 5:5) I actually use a "Chronicles of Narnia" ornament.

· Day 12: Lamb Ornament because He is the Lamb of God (John 1:36) You can find a resin ornament or hand-make one with cotton balls and black felt.

· Day 13: Heart Ornament (John 3:16)

· Day 14: Grapes for the Last Supper ornament (Mt. 26:26-28) I use fake grapes that I found at Hobby Lobby.

· Day 15: Vine Ornament (John 15:1-8) I also got the vine at Hobby Lobby.

· Day 16: Chalice Ornament (Mt. 26:39a)

· Day 17: Praying Hands Ornament (Mt. 26:39b)

· Day 18: Money Bag Ornament (Mt. 26:14-15) I put 30 pieces of silver (quarters) in a little money bag that my children open up to count.

· Day 19: Crown of Thorns Ornament (Mt. 27:29)

· Day 20: Cross Ornament (Mk 15:14-16)

· Day 21: Red Berries Ornament representing the blood Jesus shed for his sheep. (Rev. 1:5) I bought a bundle of red berries from Hobby Lobby and wrapped a ribbon around the stems.

· Day 22: Shepherd's Crook Ornament (Hebrews 13:20) You can use a candy cane or crumple up and shape a brown paper bag or a crooked stick.

· Day 23: Nail Ornament (John 20:25) I found a large one that supposedly looks like the actual type of nail that was driven into the wrists of Jesus at a Christian bookstore.

· Day 24: Dove Ornament (John 16:77)

· Day 25: Golden Crown to top the tree (Daniel 7:14) Jesus is our eternal King

So, I really miss writing...

2009-11-29T07:25:00.000-08:00

I will be a guest writer on occasion for Sola Sisters. I know these two gals. One of them I go to church with and the other goes to a sound church too far away. (she really needs to move here). These biological Christian sisters are both really short physically :-) ... but giants, in my book, when it comes to being theologically sound.
They are the type of chicks I LOVE to have conversations with about the things of God. Why? Because they know what they believe and why and they are teachable but not tossable.
See you there!

Here's the thing...

2009-07-26T13:11:00.000-07:00

I prayed a simple prayer that began with Psalm 139:23-24.
"Search me, O God, and know my heart;
Try me and know my anxious thoughts;
And see if there be any hurtful way in me,
And lead me in the everlasting way."

I then asked that the Lord make it obvious to me what needs a'changin' because I am slow. Not only did my internet fail to work for about 2 weeks, I am now without my iPhone because it just suddenly stopped working. We also recently shut down our cable.
Being without this stuff sure has opened my eyes to how I had made such things a priority over serving the Lord. Now, I am not recommending everyone do this. No. That would be legalistic. But for me, it was necessary and the Lord made it very obvious that I had allowed these things to control me instead of controlling them.

I recently wrote the following to my church family, the women's group that meets in my home, and I posted this on my facebook:

I wanted to share with you some prayerful decisions that have been made in my life due to the trials and experiences from the past few weeks.

1. I am more excited than ever about teaching the women of Legacy. This has been a very difficult time with unrelenting trial after trial, but I have learned so much through this time. Most importantly that God is faithful. I felt beat down to the core and many areas of my life that had been left as dust in a dark corner have been brought to light. God has done an amazing work in transforming my life, but is obviously not finished. I tearfully, weepingly questioned whether or not I could possibly be qualified for the task of teaching. I am far from perfect... a work in progress by His grace alone. I LOVE teaching our women. I LOVE praying for you all and being a part of your lives. I LOVE hearing your testimonies and look forward to more. WOW! We heard some very powerful testimonies from 3 dear women last time we met and we will be encouraging at least one testimony per meeting. I will send out some encouraging criteria that may help you gauge how to articulate what God has so graciously accomplished in your life, so look for that soon.

2. I need your prayers. We all need to pray for one another often and consistently. But I especially beg you all to pray for our church leaders, elders, upcoming deacons, our pastor and their family. When you are in a teaching position proclaiming God's uncompromising truth, attacks are relentless and waring.

3. On that note, I have made the decision to limit internet time and focus on my primary ministries:
My Husband
My family
Teaching the women

4. This means I will likely not blog anymore and limit my time on facebook. ... It takes away from the priorities the Lord has been so gracious to provide. I will send out e-mail updates on what happened in the Bible study for those that miss and when I have time. Otherwise, please know that this decision was based on a longing to make my testimony and ministry authentic for HIS glory. That is hard to do when your life is stretched in too many directions.

5. There are other women in our church with the gift of teaching, so look forward to other teachers in the near future. As our pastor recently sent out an informative e-mail on gifts, each one of you has one and if you need help finding out what yours is, than our church has those booklets that our pastor mentioned.

So, there you go. If you want to contact me, my internet is obviously working again so you can e-mail me at lisa4given@gmail.com
I cannot guarantee I will e-mail you back, though I will do my best.
If I blog, it will likely be a comment here and there on others blogs, but I really do not have the time to keep this up. Wow. I have been blogging about 4 years now.
I have enjoyed SIMPLICITY and look forward to focusing on the ministries that God has so graciously entrusted me with.

Just remember to press on in His truth and His love for His glory,
Lisa

Nunley Swimming Pool Rules

2009-06-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

And yes, it is okay to laugh at some of these rules. I did. Though, in reality, they will be lovingly enforced :-)

1) In the interests of health and safety concerns, persons who are feeling unwell or recovering from illness are to refrain from swimming:

Open wounds
Skin irritations
Communicable ailments

Also please consider:

Babies: Swim diapers please
Please teach your children about how gross it is to pee in the pool.

2) Be careful on the diving board:

3) Modest swimming attire is required:

Males: Definitely no g-strings or tight and tiny anything (GACK!!!)
Males: Swim trunks must have inner liner and must not be too short
Females: Refrain from swimwear that displays your cleavage (leave that for your future husbands)
Females: No bikinis/ No skin showing on your midriff (I have teen boys and would prefer that you err on the side of modesty)
Females: If you show up at the pool displaying cleavage and your midriff, you will be required to wear THIS:

4) Bring your own towel. I really do have enough laundry to do. :-)

5) In the event of hazardous conditions such as lightning and thunder, all persons are required to leave the open area immediately.

6) I will maintain a Lost & Found. At the end of the swim season, I will donate those items to our Loving Choices garage sale if not claimed.

7) No food or drinks (glass, canned, staining fluids) are allowed in the pool and on the pool cool deck, except for bottled water.

8) No cuss words or bad-mouthing tolerated

9) Enjoy yourselves and remember "Whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do ALL for the glory of God"

Legacy of Biblical Womanhood Study Schedule: "Disciplines of a Godly Woman"

2009-06-14T07:31:00.000-07:00

"Disciplines of a Godly Woman"
by Barbara Hughes
Begins June 23rd at noon

For those who may not have a book yet, I am out, so you may want to consider ordering one from amazon here: "Disciplines of a Godly Woman" by Barbara Hughes

June 23 @ NOON: We will eat lunch together; bring finger foods to share
Discipline for Godliness (pg.11)

On following meetings, we will meet AFTER lunch unless otherwise posted. You may bring lunch for your children if you do not have time to feed them beforehand.

The pool should be open soon, however, the children will not be able to swim until we are done with our meeting: Nunley Swimming Pool Rules
They can play on the fenced in playset during our meeting on the south side of the house or with board games, books, blocks, etc. that are in the buffet room.
Healthy snacks are available for the kids.
We will continue to use the "buddy system"; in which the teen helpers will be assigned 2 to 3 buddies to oversee. Teen girls will be assigned girls; teen boys will be assigned boys.
The women will meet downstairs on the carpeted area for those that have babies that they want to keep near them.

July 7 @ 12:45 Discipline of the Gospel
July 21 @ 12:45 Discipline of Submission
August 11 @ 12:45 Discipline of Prayer
August 25 @ 12:45 Discipline of Worship
September 8 @ 12:45 Discipline of Mind
September 22 @ 12:45 Discipline of Contentment
October 13 @ 12:45 Discipline of Propriety
October 27 @ 12:45 Discipline of Perseverance
November 10 @ 12:45 Discipline of the Church

Holiday break (during this break, we will schedule a fun ladies luncheon)

January 12 @ NOON: We will eat lunch together; bring finger foods to share
Discipline of Singleness/ Marriage/ Nurturing

January 26 @ 12:45 Discipline of Good Deeds
February 9 @ 12:45 Discipline of Witness
February 23 @ 12:45 Grace of Discipline

In March 2010, we will begin an in-depth Bible study together.

Biblical Portrait of Womanhood

2009-06-10T20:05:00.001-07:00

One of the ladies asked if I could create a post that had the entire study series that we just finished available on the sidebar. Here it is. The following study was inspired by "Biblical Portrait of Womanhood: Discovering and Living Out God's Plan for our Lives" by Nancy Leigh DeMoss

Introduction and Self-Evaluation (pg.22)

Why was I created as a woman? (pg.8)

What makes a beautiful woman? (pg.10)

How does a woman of God conduct herself? (pg.12)

What is God’s plan for me as a wife? (pg.13)

On your own: How does God want to use me in others’ lives? (pg.16)

***Please remember to use the New Testament Greek Lexicon for word studies

Sound Doctrine Matters

2009-06-10T18:52:00.000-07:00

Legacy of Biblical Womanhood: "What is God’s plan for me as a wife?"

2009-06-10T11:19:00.000-07:00

I. Proverbs 31:11-12
Being able to fully trust your marriage partner is one of the fundamental foundations of a strong God-honoring marriage.

The term "husband" is the common word for husband in the Old Testament.
It also means "lord" or "owner."
Why the heart of the husband can trust his virtuous wife
The first reason a husband can safely trust his wife is found in the second part of verse 11 ("so that he shall have no need of spoil": his wife is not a financial liability)
the second reason is found in verse 12 ("she shall do him good and not evil")
READ Prov. 18:22; Proverbs 12:4
The verb "will do" is of interest.
It is not the common Hebrew verb for "do."
It means to deal out, to deal fully, to deal bountifully.
This verb is also used of the LORD who deals bountifully with his servants.
READ Psalm 13:6; 116:7; 119:17; 142:7.
The virtuous woman deals out to her husband that which is good. She dishes out to him and serves him that which is good and not evil.
She wants only God's highest and best for him.
Her life and her deeds are a constant benefit and blessing to her husband.
All the days of her life
In doing good to her husband she is consistent.
She doesn't serve him that which is good one day and that which is evil the next day (no PMS excuses... aarrrrgh)
Her godliness is marked with consistency.

II. Genesis 3:6

She saw. A great deal of sin comes in at the eye. Let us not look on that which we are in danger of lusting after, Mt 5:28.
She took. It was her own act and deed. Satan may tempt, but he cannot force; may persuade us to cast ourselves down, but he cannot cast us down, Mt 4:6.
She did eat. When she looked perhaps she did not intend to take; or when she took, not to eat: but it ended in that. It is wisdom to stop the first motions of sin, and to leave it off before it be meddled with.
She gave it also to her husband with her. Those that have done ill, are willing to draw in others to do the same. This is clearly a contempt of what God had bestowed on them, and a desire for what God did not see fit to give them. He would have what he pleased, and do what he pleased.
Who then can say that this seemingly minor sin had but little harm in it? See here what dishonour and trouble sin is; it makes mischief wherever it gets in, and destroys all comfort. Sooner or later it will bring shame. The excuses we make to cover and lessen our sins, are vain and frivolous; like the aprons of fig-leaves, they make the matter never the better: yet we are all apt to cover our transgressions as Adam and Eve. Before they sinned, they would have welcomed God's gracious visits with humble joy; but now he was become a terror to them. No marvel that they became a terror to themselves, and full of confusion. This shows the falsehood of the tempter, and the frauds of his temptations.
(from Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Bible)

III. The following are key words from those Scriptures that I had you look up in the NT Greek Lexicon:

A. submit: (Ephesians 5:24)
Hupotasso (verb)
1.to arrange under, to subordinate
2.to subject, put in subjection
3.to subject one's self, obey
4.to submit to one's control
5.to yield to one's admonition or advice
6.to obey, be subject

A Greek military term meaning "to arrange [troop divisions] in a military fashion under the command of a leader". In non-military use,it was "a voluntary attitude of giving in, cooperating, assuming responsibility, and carrying a burden".
B. Head: (Ephesians 5:23)
Kephale (noun feminine)
1. the head, both of men and often of animals. Since the loss of the head destroys life, this word is used in the phrases relating to capital and extreme punishment.
2. metaph. anything supreme, chief, prominent
of persons, master lord: of a husband in relation to his wife
of Christ: the Lord of the husband and of the Church
of things: the corner stone
C. reverence: (Ephesians 5:33) KJV
Phobeo (verb)
1. to put to flight by terrifying (to scare away)
to put to flight, to flee
to fear, be afraid
2. to be struck with fear, to be seized with alarm
of those startled by strange sights or occurrences
of those struck with amazement
3. to fear, be afraid of one
4. to fear (i.e. hesitate) to do something (for fear of harm)
5. to reverence, venerate, to treat with deference or reverential obedience

to venerate: to regard or treat with reverence; revere
Origin of venerate:
Latin: venerātus, to solicit the goodwill of
to treat with deference: respectful submission or yielding to the judgment, opinion, will, etc., of another.
respectful or courteous regard: in deference to his wishes
D. duty: (I Corinthians 7:3-4)
Opheile (noun feminine)
1.that which is owed
2.a debt
3.metaph. dues: specifically of conjugal duty

conjugal of, pertaining to, or characteristic of marriage; pertaining to the relation of husband and wife

this Scripture is in the context of avoiding/ preventing/ abstaining from sexual immorality
E. desire: (I Corinthians 14:35) as in “desire to learn” or “inquire about something”
Thelo (verb)
1. to will, have in mind, intend
to be resolved or determined, to purpose
to desire, to wish
to love
2. to like to do a thing, be fond of doing
to take delight in, have pleasure
IMPORTANT NOTE: this Scripture is in the context of the church. Thus, if during the church service, a woman has a question about something or desires to learn further about something that the pastor is currently preaching, make a note of the question and talk with your husband. Do not interrupt the worship service or preaching with your question, as this would be disruptive and irreverent to God and your husband. The women needed to especially here this admonishment in the church in Corinth because they tended to be disruptive and unsubmissive.

There will be times when what is preached may seem unclear to us, convict us or even anger us. We must yield ourselves to the Word of God, with humble and teachable minds. Being willing to be convicted of our sin even as it is preached, taking it both patiently and thankfully. When it comes to the Word of God being preached, we are especially to be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger.

READ James 1:18-25 if you question whether or not this applies to the preaching of God's Word
F. improper: (because the rest of I Corinthians 14:35 says "for it is improper for a woman to speak in church"... to disrupt the church service as the preacher was proclaiming the Truth according to God's Word... see "IMPORTANT NOTE" above)
Aischros (adjective)
filthy, baseness, dishonour
self-exalting because the focus shifts from worshiping the Lord to the person disrupting
disgraceful, improper, sordid

WARNING: The world will take all of what is written here and twist it. This is not at all about being a doormat, ladies.

"[Biblical Womanhood] is a gift, a Divine gift, to be accepted with both hands, and to thank God for. Because remember, it was His idea."- Elizabeth Elliott

Press on in His truth and His love for His glory and remember to be more Berean than the Bereans,
Lisa

BTW, we also had great discussions on the questions in the booklet. Especially in regards to the following:

"Am I completely trustworthy... in the way I talk about my husband to others?"
"Does my response to my husband demonstrate to the world the beauty and blessing of submission to Christ?"
"Do others know that I reverence my husband?"
"By my words, example and counsel, do I encourage other women to reverence their husbands?"
"Do I reserve intimate communication, looks, words, and touch for my husband?"
"Do I motivate my husband to grow spiritually by seeking his counsel, input, and direction, or am I quick to run to my pastor to another counselor for answers to my questions and problems?"
"Does my husband feel that I value and respect his input and counsel?"

Operation Outcry

2009-06-09T04:18:00.000-07:00

Go HERE to find out what "Operation Outcry" is all about.
The following is painful to share. These are my answers to the on-line declaration form:

1. Where and when did your abortion occur?
Texas
Spring of 1988 just before I attended John Brown University in the Fall
2. How many weeks pregnant were you?
14
3. What type of abortion was performed?
Suction Aspiration
4. Were you adequately informed of the nature of abortion, what it is, what it does?
I was told it was a "mass of tissue". I was NOT told that at the time of my abortion, all arteries are present, including the coronary vessels of the heart and that blood was fully circulating through these vessels to all body parts. I was NOT told that the "mass of tissue" had complete vocal chords and that the brain was fully formed and that the "mass of tissue" had organized muscles, could feel pain, suck it's thumb, and had eye lids that protected its delicate optical nerve fibers. I was NOT told that the flutters I felt were actually kicks and movements of the "mass of tissue"... of course, I did hear them say in the middle of the abortion "she is farther along than we thought" as I cried for them to stop... "It's too late, honey. You did the right thing. Now, you can go on with your life." I could hear the water running in the sink nearby. I then heard a big plop... "Did you just throw my baby in the trash?" I thought. ... Then they shuffled me out the back way.
5. Were you adequately informed of the consequences of abortion?
All I remember is that I was not told that I would experience deep despair and lonely scars of regret; that I would never forget the details of the actual abortion. I did not bring enough money to be put to sleep through the "procedure"... so I was awake the whole time. They numbed me. I felt no physical pain... but I will never forget the tugging and the pulling. I will never forget the sound of that vacuum. Instead, I was told I did the right thing. It was just a mass of tissue; that I could go on with my life.
I am 40 years old with 6 living children. Two of my children are adopted. I have never forgotten my first child: The child murdered by having an abortion because it was inconvenient that they kept assuring me was just a mass of tissue. Who gets attached to a mass of tissue? A mass of tissue that could easily be aborted, forgotten, right? No. ...no. Not a "mass of tissue". A life wonderfully made, knit within my womb. A life destroyed. Literally ripped from my body.
I can't forget. I will never forget.
6. How has abortion affected you?
I became pregnant as an older teen. My father begged me NOT to abort. So I went to my pro-'choice' mother. (She left my dad, me, my sister and brother when I was 6 years old to "find herself". Please know that I mean no disrespect. I love my mother dearly, though I do not know her very well.) She took me to the hospital to get an exam. They asked me, after they confirmed that I was pregnant, if I wanted to carry the baby to full term or abort the mass of tissue. Since I had no attachment to a "mass of tissue" I figured this would be no big deal.
My mother gave me the money I needed to have the abortion. She dropped me off at the clinic. I was alone and had no idea what I was doing. I did not bring enough money to be put to sleep through the "procedure"... so I was awake the whole time. They numbed me. I felt no physical pain... but I will never forget the tugging and the pulling... the sound of the vacuum. After the abortion, I was shuffled out the back way. I sat alone on the curb outside, waiting for my mother to come pick me up. She was an hour late.
They told me I would forget about the "mass of tissue' and be able to go on with my life, but I was having nightmares every night. For many years, a day did not go by that I did not contemplate suicide. I felt immense guilt, sorrow, loss of dignity, intense shame, deep despair and lonely scars of regret.
Though forgiven, I will never forget.
7. How has your abortion affected others in your life?
When my oldest 2 children found out, it devastated them that I would do that. They were angry with me and could not understand why I would ever do such a thing. I spoke for CareNet Crisis Pregnancy Centers fundraiser one year and then gave my abortion testimony on the radio. I hired a babysitter to watch my children. I had NO IDEA she would listen to the testimony on the radio with my children listening. I wanted to tell them myself when they were a bit older. It was a very difficult time. They asked so many hard questions. Especially "Why"... I still have a hard time answering that. I can't answer that.
By the grace of God alone, I have an amazing life now. With 6 children, precious gifts from God, I do not take life for granted. Most especially in light of having experienced the nightmare horror of abortion and even the fact that I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1999. I try to live every moment to its fullest because the value of life, the value of living, should never be taken for granted.
8. Based upon your experience, what would you tell a woman considering abortion?
Please choose life. Your life should never be taken for granted. Please do not take for granted the life of the child being knit together in your womb by the hand of God. What is inside of you is not a "mass of tissue"

You have a choice:

You can have the memories of a child being knit in your womb and given the chance to live; perhaps even giving a family who cannot have a child the opportunity to provide a loving home for your baby.
or You can have the memory of a baby being ripped from your womb. A life aborted with the only excuse of inconvenience. A choice that will haunt you for the rest of your life.

Choose a memory that will bless you and not haunt you. Please... choose life.

9. Based on your own experience, what would you tell a court that believes abortion should be legal?
Women aren't forced to bear children, they choose to bear children by the act of having sexual intercourse. (rape or incest account for less than 1% of legal abortions.)
If a man chooses not to be a father, he is considered a dead-beat loser. If a women chooses not to be a mother, she is kindly labeled pro-choice. Why?
Abortions based on the mother's health account for 3% of abortions. Abortions based on the baby's health account for 3% of abortions. Most women pursuing abortion feel selfishly inconvenienced by pregnancy. 1.5 Million babies are being aborted every year. That is over a million babies dying due to inconvenience.
This is not a mass of tissue. This is life. A baby. A person... and 100% of a person's genetic makeup is determined at the moment of conception. Science and medicine define being a person (human) by genetic means.
No one is saying that babies should have rights equal to or superior to a woman's. Babies simply have a right to life.
Every child is a wanted child. The option of adoption is a far healthier option and there are endless lists of families waiting and longing to adopt those babies.
Abortion is not a choice about women's value, family, career, how to live their lives, or when or whether to have children. Abortion is a choice between allowing an unborn baby to live or killing it.

But, " It wasn't that long ago that there was no written Word available."

2009-06-08T12:22:00.000-07:00

Really? Then consider the following:

Psalms 12:6-7

"The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times.
Thou shalt keep them, O LORD, thou shalt preserve them from this generation for ever."

God is all-powerful. He made the heavens and the earth and all that it is in it. Since He is powerful enough to do that, He is powerful enough to preserve His Word.

II Timothy 3:16-17

"All scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for Doctrine, for Reproof, for Correction, for Instruction in Righteousness;
that the man of God may be thoroughly Furnished unto all good works."

The Old Testament scriptures thoroughly furnished man of that day unto all good works, and Christ continually referenced it to prove truths to Old Testament Israel. Jesus and others read and quoted scripture, never any oral traditions, except to condemn them. That's not an insignificant fact or something that is not pertinent. Likewise, when Satan himself tested Jesus, the Lord gave us our example of reproof by His steadfast reference to "the authority of scripture" to prove Satan's understanding, tempting or declarations were flawed.

Matthew 4:3-4

"And when the tempter came to Him, he said, if you be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.
But He answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every Word that proceeds out of the mouth of God."

What proceeds out of the mouth of God is His Holy infallible word, and this was written in the scriptures as man's authority. These words are as the bread or sustenance of life, that man must live by. Consider that Christ could have answered Satan in any way that He wanted, for He is Perfect God, and an original perfect answer could have been spoken at any moment. But instead, Christ pointed to God's word that was already written in the scriptures as His reply to the adversary. i.e., that was the perfect authority where the answer would come from. This yielding to what was written in the scriptures is an example and lesson for all faithful Christians about what authority we should defer to in coming to any Biblical truth. And Christ answered this way not only in debunking un-biblical assertions, but also when He was presented with scripture that was taken out of context. When this occurred, Christ again defers to additional scripture, that would "qualify" or shed more light on the scripture in question. For example:

Matthew 4:5-11

Then the Devil took Him up into the Holy City, and set Him on a pinnacle of the Temple,
and said to Him, if you are the Son of God, cast yourself down; for it is written, He shall give His angels charge concerning you, and in their hands they shall bear you up, lest at any time you dash your foot against a stone.
Jesus said to him, It is Written Again, you shall not tempt the Lord God."

In other words, Jesus replies to scripture taken out of context, with an additional scripture which "qualifies" and clarifies the scripture, not denies it. For no scripture contradicts another scripture. In doing this, Christ is demonstrating to us how we are to exegete scripture. i.e., he didn't deny the the first scripture the Devil submitted. Yes, it was true God's messengers will watch over us. But the additional scripture Christ submitted clarified how that didn't mean that we could test or tempt the Lord God. This is a perfect example of God illustrating the ultimate authority of scripture, even in the face of those who present other scriptures taken out of context. The perfect answer by Christ to combat erroneous understanding of scripture, was for Him to quote "additional Scripture" that shed more light on its true meaning. Thus we learn that the scripture is still the ultimate authoritative judgment over whatever other scriptures that anyone might misuse or misapply.

Christ Himself references the true and supreme authority declaring, "it is written!" This is a representative sample or model of the posture that we are to take in order to test the spirits to see if they are of God or of antichrist. We compare their words to "what is written," countering their Church traditions with the authority of what God has inspired written. The same can be said about any debate of any doctrine of the Church. The correct principle in faithful Hermeneutics is to always defer to a sound and ordered exegesis of scripture, and not to consensus, tradition, leaders, or the ecclesiastical body. This is precisely as Jesus demonstrated in His debates with the religious leaders of His day. He was God Himself, and yet He appealed to the authority of scripture that we might be enlightened.

Matthew 21:42

"Jesus said unto them, did you never read in the scriptures, the Stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner; this is the Lord's doing, and it is marvelous in our Eyes!"

They were to understand that it was written in the scriptures, the supreme authority that furnished them unto all good works. Therefore, they should have searched God's words that they would have known of the coming Christ. Likewise, when the New Testament was added, it Biblically follows this same principle of thoroughly furnishing us unto all Good works. The same principle would continue in the final Testament of God's Holy word. Once completed, the entire New Testament scriptures (like the Old Testament was) is the guidebook of truth for the Church. It is now a "completed work," not a work in progress.

http://www.mountainretreatorg.net/bible/sola_scriptura.shtml

Legacy of Biblical Womanhood Study Schedule: "Biblical Portrait of Womanhood"

2009-06-08T06:45:00.000-07:00

A quiet revolution of women willing to pattern their lives after God's Word will be gathering in my home twice a month beginning tomorrow. This group of women will be studying Biblical Womanhood as we pursue fulfilling the purpose for which we were created.

We will begin our study using a little booklet called:
"Biblical Portrait of Womanhood: Discovering and Living Out God's Plan for our Lives" by Nancy Leigh DeMoss

April 14, 2009 Introduction and Self-Evaluation (pg.22)
Luncheon to precede this study.
Note: We will begin at noon today. Please bring a finger food to share.

April 28, 2009 Why was I created as a woman? (pg.8)

May 12, 2009 What makes a beautiful woman? (pg.10)

May 26, 2009 How does a woman of God conduct herself? (pg.12)

June 9, 2009 What is God’s plan for me as a wife? (pg.13)
***Please remember to start using the New Testament Greek Lexicon in your studies

Study on your own: How does God want to use me in others’ lives? (pg.16)

o Please bring your book and a notebook each meeting.
o Some of the teenagers will be available to look after children.
o We will begin at 12:30 unless we are beginning a new study, which means we will begin at noon and kick off the new study with a luncheon.
o In the summer months, kids can swim (please remember modesty).
o There will be structure to each meeting, with flexibility.
o Each meeting will include prayer focused on study,teaching and discussion on questions for each topic, prayer needs.

We will begin our study in "Disciplines of a Godly Woman" by Barbara Hughes on June 23rd!
I will provide a study schedule soon.

Would you pray these prayers for me?

2009-06-07T06:52:00.000-07:00

I will pray for you now, for you have been my faithful friends
While the road we walk is difficult indeed

I couldn't not ask for more than what you've already been
Only that you would say these prayers for me

May your heart break enough that compassion enters in
May your strength all be spent upon the weak

All the castles and crowns you build and place upon your head
May they all fall, come crashing down around your feet

May you find every step to be harder than the last
So your character grows greater every stride

May your company be of human insignificance
May your weakness be your only source of pride

What you do unto others may it all be done to you
May you meet the One who made us
And see Him smile when life is through
May your blessings be many but not what you hoped they'd be

And when you look upon the broken
May mercy show you what you could not see

May you never be sure of any plans you desire
But you'd learn to trust the plan He has for you

May your passions be tried and tested in the holy fire
May you fight with all your life for what is true

I have prayed for you now all my dear and faithful friends
But what I wish is more than I could ever speak
As the way wanders on, I'll long to see you once again
Until then, would you pray these prayers for me?
Oh, that you would pray for me

Kendall Payne: "Pray" Lyrics on http://www.lyricsmania.com/

A More Effective Examination

2009-05-31T12:15:00.000-07:00

My pastor has posted the following on his blog:

Do you examine yourself to see if you are in the faith (II Cor. 13:5; Matthew 7:16-23)? Unfortunately, the following is what is considered an adequate test in some circles today. Granted, it’s not offensive. But it’s also not biblical and therefore ineffective.
*Do you know you are a sinner?
*Do you want to go to heaven?
*Have you asked Jesus into your heart?
*Do you remember a time when you prayed to receive Christ as your Lord and Savior?
*If not, would you like to do that now? Repeat after me. “Dear Lord Jesus, I know that I’m a sinner. . .”
Now, I don’t want to simply point out problems. I don’t want to complain or be overly negative. But, come on! Maybe, just maybe, the following is a possible alternative...
...You will have to go to his blog, Titus 1:9, to read the more effective examination. (I dare ya...)

Photo Booth Pic from Tyler Birthday Bash

2009-05-30T18:33:00.000-07:00

Click on the picture for a larger view

SHUT UP!!!

2009-05-27T11:02:00.001-07:00

Legacy of Biblical Womanhood Study: Week 4 "How should a woman of God conduct herself?"

2009-05-26T23:56:00.000-07:00

Read: Esther 1:16-18; Ezekiel 18:30-31; Philippians 1:27; Ephesians 4:1; Colossians 1:10; 1 Thessalonians 2:12; Philippians 3:10; Galatians 2:20; I Thess 5:18; Romans 12:2; Rom 8:28-29; Philippians 1:6; John 3:30

As true believers in Christ, we are citizens of the kingdom of God not to be conformed to this world: but transformed by the renewing of our minds.

To ‘renew our minds’ according to God’s Word does not happen automatically.
We must immerse ourselves in THE truth, not just dip our toe in or allow other people to jump in and tell us what it’s like.
The Lord has so mercifully and sufficiently provided the Bible for us in this time.
We are not merely left to our own devices and with our own experiences.
God IS the Spirit of truth.
Though chosen men held the pen, God wrote the words of this Bible in order that we may be helped and taught as we are illuminated by the Holy Spirit that He has provided to all who truly believe.
You cannot renew your mind unless you are diligently abiding in God’s Word, both in the reading and study of it and in living it out by His grace.
You not only need to hear it preached to you without compromise, but you yourself need to struggle with it and search the Scriptures yourself, longing prayerfully and genuinely to understand it as the Spirit leads and guides you,
as you use your mind
as you seek earnestly to grasp it and constantly apply it for the purpose of glorifying God and conforming to the image of Christ.

You must, your entire life in this world, no matter how long you have been a Christian, approach everything in light of God’s standard that has been revealed in His holy, knowable, applicable Truth.

In Christ you are literally transferred from one condition to another.
You are not merely forgiven of all your sins past, present and future.
It goes further than that...
You have been transferred out of the kingdom of darkness, and into the kingdom of God through the work of the Son of God.
You have been adopted and you are now joint heirs with the Son of God, Jesus Christ.
And Clothed in the righteousness of Jesus Christ

We are part of a fallen world and we are creatures of habit.

We have been so accustomed to thinking in a certain way that we naturally will want to continue in that way even after being born again.
We will not automatically think like Christ.
The Christian life will involve breaking old ways of thinking, reacting, old sin habits and training yourself to think Biblically.
Even the things you were taught in your church as a child and even now will have to stand up to God’s Holy Word of Truth.
As a Christian, you will wrestle, question, fail, sometimes not conduct yourself in a manner worthy of your calling… even though, by His grace alone, you have obtained such abounding mercy and unfailing grace mercy.

You must, therefore, diligently renew your mind

Why are we prone to forget what Christ has FULLY accomplished like the Israelites were prone to forget all that God had accomplished on their behalf? Because we must be constantly reminded of who we are and what has happened so we don’t end up like dogs that return to their vomit.
To `be renewed in your mind' means that you will not allow yourself to forget.
You will be on guard as you remind yourself of who you are and what He has done.
All your groanings, whinings and worries are due more to the fact that you have 'forgotten what you know.
How can you listen to the voice of truth if you do not know what the truth is or abide in the truth?
Is relying on what you have been taught by your parents enough?
Are the examples of those around you godly enough for you to not have to study God’s Word yourself?
“The best of men are but men at the best, and the brightest saints are still sinners”-Spurgeon
Even when Paul said “imitate me” he exhorted them to do so only as he followed the example of Christ.
Is Sunday morning preaching enough to satisfy your thirst for the Living Water when you have God’s very Word in your hands in this country where most of us own up to 10 copies each… when other countries like Egypt have people that would die just to get a hold of a ripped page of it.

I will tell you that even the most stellar example of a Christian family will not suffice in providing what you need to stay on guard, renew your mind, equip you to be conformed into the image of Christ and cause you to conduct yourself as a woman of God.

Do you find any of this burdensome or legalistic?

Then I beg you to consider the fact that a true woman of God will find rest in God’s Holy Word as her soul is consumed with the longing for it.
She will cling to it, delight in it, love it...
She sometimes may not even feel like reading it or studying it, but she will, God-willing, press on in spite of how she feels; abiding in His Word as she earnestly pleads to God to help her once again delight in it.
Sometimes she will be rightfully laid low by it, justly convicted, counseled, encouraged, strengthened, and appropriately fearful of twisting it or compromising it

Read: 2 Peter 3:10-12

So, how can you conduct yourself as a woman of God according to God’s Holy Word?

I. Virtuous woman (KJV): woman of excellence (NAS); a worthy woman

(Ruth 3:11)

Virtuous Having moral excellence; characterized by morality; upright; righteous; pure; as, a virtuous action; Chaste; pure; -- applied especially to women.

Excellence The state of possessing good qualities in an eminent degree; exalted merit; superiority in virtue; An excellent or valuable quality; that by which any one excels or is eminent; a virtue; A title of honor or respect; -- more common in the form excellency.

Worthy Having worth or excellence; possessing merit; valuable; deserving; estimable; excellent; virtuous.

II. Opens mouth with wisdom: on her tongue is law of kindness (Proverbs 31:26)

Wisdom: to speak with appropriate or righteous judgment; speaks sound, discerning judgment in complex situations

sapientia (Latin): We are homo sapiens. Sapien is a root of Sapienta and was chosen as our species name. This was apparently to emphasize man's uniqueness and separation from the rest of the animal kingdom.

law of kindness:

Why is it called a law? Because it proceeds from an inward and powerful principle of true wisdom.
Synonyms for kindness: grace, tenderness, compassion, gentleness, goodness, generosity

III. Persuade those who are wrong through patience & with a gentle tongue (Proverbs 25:15)

Patience: Forbearance Bearing or enduring pain, difficulty, provocation, or annoyance with calmness;Persevering; constant;Capable of calmly awaiting an outcome or result; not hasty or impulsive.

Gentle tongue Considerate or kind words; amiable and tender;Speaks not harshly but mild and with fairness

IV. Learns in quietness and full submission (I Timothy 2:11)

Quietness: Hesuchia (Greek) hay-soo-khee'-ah; does not officiously meddle with the affairs of others

(to be officious: Marked by excessive eagerness in offering unwanted services or advice to others)

I Timothy 2:11 applies to a formal assembly in which the women are not to be gossips or busy bodies, but eager students of God’s Word as preached by the male pastor, who is to proclaim God’s Truth without compromise. (so be careful what church you put your self under the authority of) They are not to teach over men, nor seek to usurp the authority of God according to His divine order or she will be like a bird in the ocean trying to swim or a fish in the sky trying to fly. But she is to pursue being a Titus 2:3-4 woman.

full submission: subjection: Hupotage (Greek) hoop-ot-ag-ay; obedience

came from Hupotasso, which means:

to arrange under, to subordinate
to subject, put in subjection
to subject one's self, obey
to submit to one's control
to yield to one's admonition or advice
to obey, be subject

A Greek military term meaning "to arrange [troop divisions] in amilitary fashion under the command of a leader". In non-military use,it was "a voluntary attitude of giving in, cooperating, assuming responsibility, and carrying a burden".

V. Better to dwell in the wilderness than with a contentious, angry woman (Proverbs 21:19)

Contentious argumentative; quarrelsome; unsubmissive; spiteful; malicious

Angry easily annoyed; tumultuous; uptight; irritable; irrational

Read: Colossians 3:12-14

I also read to the ladies a testimony out of THIS BOOK (on pg. 87) of a godly woman I hope that I can conduct myself like. She reflected Christ and His faithfulness and sufficiency up to her death.

I have no idea what to title this...

2009-05-26T17:32:00.000-07:00

Consider reading the following articles from Monergism.com: Should Women Wear Head Coverings Today?

How do you recognize the difference between cultural customs and universal principles in the Bible? Consider purchasing the following book: Knowing Scripture

Another good book to guide you in studying Scripture is Independent Bible Study

And for the women who asked the really hard question today at our Legacy of Biblical Womanhood study regarding why I am not a Beth Moore fan:
Read the following Reviews of Beth Moore's Online Study: "Believing God"

1. As a Southern Baptist Pastor of over 20 years, I am very concerned about Beth Moore and her recent teachings. For a while I have seen her drift from sound doctrine to a "speak it & receive it" - "claim who you are" theology. This book is just the most recent & most blatant. The implications to sound Evangelical churches are astronomical. We must be careful not to allow Charismatic error to infect our churches. Our prayers are with her & that she would return to a proper understanding of Scripture-placing herself under the authority and teaching of a sound pastor.
2. ...Beth Moore seemingly has wandered off the theological map, straying into "name it, claim it" and positive confessionalism. She makes wild extrapolations from isolated texts so as to suggest that we might have the power to speak things into being. What does this say to those who are speech impaired? Is God's power less available to them? What's with all the emphasis on empowerment, anyway?

Beth Moore's involvement in a DVD that endorses contemplative or centering prayer called "Be Still" brings great concern. Please understand, contemplative Prayer practiced in our Christian churches happens when Christianity turns a blind eye to the infiltration of ancient mysticism that is rooted in the occult and pagan practices. "But the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons"- 1 Timothy 4:1

I have received "Beth Moore fan" hate mail for 3 years since I openly published why I am not a Beth Moore fan. Please understand that though I believe Beth Moore is beautiful and sweet and knowledgeable in many areas, I also believe she has seriously strayed from sound doctrine. I am more concerned about pleasing the Lord and I fear the Lord more than the hate mail. I long for you all to be far more a Berean-like follower of Christ than a fan of Beth Moore and until I see evidence that she has sincerely and unquestionably changed her teaching, I do not, at this time, see how you can be both.

Here is a post I would also like for you to read about a woman's experience with Beth Moore studies. Her experience is close to my own, except she has articulated this far better than I have. Please understand that I have gone through several Beth Moore studies, so I am not recommending any of these links in this post in ignorance of what Beth Moore actually teaches or does not teach.

Press on in HIS truth and His love for HIS glory.
Sincerely from the heart,
Lisa

Head Coverings: As a Christian Woman, Am I Supposed to Wear One?

2009-05-25T11:47:00.000-07:00

God's High Calling for Women

And

What is the Head Covering in I Corinthians 11?
& Does it Apply to us Today?

are two articles that I want the Legacy of Biblical Womanhood group to read. I had a couple of women ask about the passages on head coverings in light of our meeting that addressed the question "Why was I created as a Woman"

This particular question covered some passages in I Corinthians 11 that caused a desire to learn about head coverings and if they apply to us today. Please understand that this is the only Scripture in the entire Bible that says anything about head coverings. This is a challenging and controversial passage that I pray does not cause division. Please do not look down at your sister in Christ if she feels strongly that she must wear one and do not act holier-than-thou if you do not.

I was planning on addressing this at our upcoming meeting, but have found there to be no time. We will actually only have time to cover the question "How Should a Woman of God Conduct Herself" even though we initially had it on the schedule to also include "What is God's Plan for Me as a Wife?"

I sincerely encourage you all to carefully read the above articles and study this on your own; prayerfully and with a desire to honor the Lord, testing everything as a Berean, and holding fast to what is good so that God alone is glorified.

"I ascribe my change wholly to God."

2009-05-24T12:30:00.000-07:00

"Well can I remember the manner in which I learned the doctrines of grace in a single instant. Born, as all of us are by nature, an Arminian, I still believed the old things I had heard continually from the pulpit, and did not see the grace of God. When I was coming to Christ, I thought I was doing it all myself, and though I sought the Lord earnestly, I had no idea the Lord was seeking me. I do not think the young convert is at first aware of this. I can recall the very day and hour when I first received those truths in my own soul - when they were, as John Bunyan says, burned into my heart as with a hot iron, and I can recollect how I felt that I had grown on a sudden from a babe into a man - that I had made progress in Scriptural Knowledge , through having found, once for all, the clue to the truth of God.

One week night, when I was sitting in the house of God, I was not thinking much about the preacher's sermon, for I did not believe it. The thought struck me, "How did you come to be a Christian?" I sought the Lord. "But how did you come to seek the Lord?" The truth flashed across my mind in a moment - I should not have sought Him unless there had been some previous influence in my mind to make me seek Him. I prayed, thought I, but then I asked myself, How came I to pray? I was induced to pray by reading the Scriptures. How came I to read the Scriptures? I did read them, but what led me to do so? Then, in a moment, I saw that God was at the bottom of it all, and that He was the Author of my faith, and so the whole doctrine of grace opened up to me, and from that doctrine I have not departed to this day, and I desire to make my constant confession: "I ascribe my change wholly to God." -CH Spurgeon

Are you stepping out in faith? or are you being foolish and testing God?

2009-05-23T10:33:00.000-07:00

Listen: there is nothing pious about doing something dumb because you trust God to clean up the mess afterwards.

If I find in myself an unquenchable desire to go to some country and share the gospel with people who have never heard it before; and seeking counsel from those members in my congregation whose walk and conduct and wisdom have shown these people to be godly, and if they agree that I am gifted for such a thing, and my spouse is as desirous as I am, and I find that the trappings of this world do not bind me as they do others so that selling my house, and leaving my job are all trivial matters to me, for I trust in the word of God that such things will be provided if I look to the Kingdom of God first - and in the strength of that conviction I quit my job, sell my house, and go to some far away land with my family - that is called "stepping out in faith".

Buying a house that is more than I can afford and trusting God to make up the difference by getting me more money - that isn't stepping out in faith, it's ridiculous.

Sending my "Christian" kids to a Muslim school because I trust God to protect their faith is not stepping out in faith - it's called tempting/testing God, and it's as far from piety as smart is from stupid.

That's not to say that we can never take a risk, or do something daring, or simply trust God for certain things that are outside the standard pale. But it is to say that dumb decisions that are buttressed foolishly by the misguided notion that one is stepping out in faith ought to be avoided by sober Christians.

There is a kind of mysticism that masquerades as faith, and we ought to be on guard against it. There are few things as blinding as ignorance pretending to be piety, for just as knowledge puffeth up, so willful ignorance puffeth up also, and it comes in all kinds of flavors... -Daniel at Doulogos

For the rest, go here: Art Thou Not Puffethed Up?

Reformed Rap? from my pastor

2009-05-20T05:19:00.000-07:00

Go check out Reformed Rap? on my pastor's blog. Unlike me, he actually likes rap... in small doses.

Also, consider reading Salvation by knowing the Truth

"...salvation is not in man, or in all the feelings, and weepings, and prayings, and Bible readings, and church goings, and chapel goings which zeal could crowd together. Nothing whatsoever that man does can avail him towards his own salvation. This I know by sad trial of it, and failure in it."-Spurgeon

Mission Accomplished: The cross will save all for whom it was intended

2009-05-19T13:50:00.000-07:00

If you are like me, you would rather listen to nails scraping on a chalk board than listen to rap music, but the lyrics in this one are EXCELLENT:

Here is the link to the lyrics if you just can't bring yourself to push play: Mission Accomplished

Dead-Beat Dad vs. Pro-Choice Woman: What's the difference?

2009-05-18T07:56:00.000-07:00

Not a Hint of Meekness

2009-05-18T07:33:00.000-07:00

"Not a hint of meekness existed in my character as a young woman. Sadly, I took pride in my ability to challenge men verbally and delighted in defeating them in debate. I thought this was a sign of strength, but actually I was a weak woman."-Kimberly Wagner from True Woman website writing on "Imperishable Beauty"

Carrie Prejean: courage coupled with a lack of clear Biblical thinking

2009-05-18T06:47:00.000-07:00

"Carrie [Prejean] has made a strong public profession of her faith in Christ. As Christians, we are called to live as redeemed men and women and to reflect to the world the beauty and holiness of God. I’m not in a position to judge Carrie’s motives or her heart. But while I applaud her courage, I also believe some of her choices and public actions, past and present, are representative of many women who consider themselves Christians, but who lack clear biblical thinking and conviction on such matters as virtue, womanhood, beauty, modesty, and discretion." Go to THIS LINK for the rest of the article

From my pastor

2009-05-18T06:44:00.000-07:00

Dear Church,

The following is from Arthur Bennett’s, The Valley of Vision. It is my prayer for all of us today. May the Lord bless you, your family, and our church.

“Our Father - When you are angry towards us for our wrongs we try to pacify You by abstaining from future sin; but teach us that we cannot satisfy Your law, that this effort is a resting in our own righteousness, and that only Christ’s righteousness, readymade, already finished, is fit for that purpose; that Your chastising us for our sin is not that we should try to reform, but only that we may be more humbled, afflicted, and separated from sin, by being reconciled, and made righteous in Christ by faith; that a sense of our sufficiency and ability in him is one means of our being immovable; that we can never be so by resting on our own faith, but by trusting in You as our only support, by faith; that if we cast away our faith we cast away You, for by faith we apprehend You, and as You are very precious, so is our faith very precious to us; that we fall short of the purity You require, because in thinking we are holy we do not seek holiness, or, believing we are impotent, we do no more. Humble us for not being as holy as we should be, or as holy as we might be through Christ, for You are all, and to possess You is to possess all. But to make the creature something is to make it stand between You and us, so that we do not walk humbly and holy. Lord, forgive us for this.”

Legacy of Biblical Womanhood Study: Week 3 "What Makes a Woman Beautiful?"

2009-05-13T08:37:00.000-07:00

For me to be talking with you about what truly makes a woman beautiful from the Biblical perspective when most of my life had been spent centered around ME, ME, ME, as I had deeply fallen into the world's view of beauty seems... ridiculous... almost laughable.
Who am I, Lord?
I certainly know that the world's view of beauty is a trap that leads to discontentment. I know that if you get caught up in it, you will never find true joy. You will never measure up. ... and if you are a Christian woman who has gotten caught up in it, you will be a stumbling block to the Gospel as well as a hindrance in serving your brother's in Christ who long to resist the temptation of lust.
So how does God transform your life, renew your mind to think Biblically on this issue of true and lasting beauty? For me personally, I would have labeled this an impossible task. A hopeless case scenario. But when God wants to do an impossible task He takes an impossible woman like me and utterly crushes her.

May our souls be crushed for the longing of God's Word... His Truth on these issues so that we can be helpers to our brother's in Christ for the sake of the Gospel and His holy Name and not stumbling blocks.

Much of what I went over with the women at the study was based on notes especially from studying God's Word and notes from well articulated sermons and books on the subject. This includes sermons/ books from John MacArthur, CJ Mahaney, Carolyn Mahaney and John Piper. I studied these writings because I deeply respect these people and I needed the balance of a man's perspective, their struggles in the area of lust, and their pleading desire for women of God to help and not hinder; along with a woman of God, such as Carolyn Mahaney, that has proven herself in this area as evidenced especially by the testimony of her husband.

Please take the time to read Cultural Beauty According to Google. It is a great way to look back at the ridiculous, me-centered, relative beauty trends that have inundated our society since the 1700's.

Do you really comprehend as a woman that men are stimulated visually? Do you really understand that your clothes will either help or hinder men who are trying to glorify God?

No! I will not encourage Islamic-type burquas or abayas as the standard of dress. I will not get out my measuring tape to make sure your skirt is long enough. I will not gawk at you in a holier-than-thou condemnation because you aren't following MY rules. I am a work in progress and am so thankful for the women in my life who have come alongside me to teach me what is appropriate for the sake of the Gospel. I am so thankful for my Godly husband!!!
I consider myself to be the worst sinner I know and if I am concerned about your manner of dress as a Christian woman I will come to you graciously and I would hope you would do the same for me. This is not the sole responsibility of the pastor and elder's of our church to tell us women what NOT to wear. Especially on a Sunday morning when we are to come prepared for worship; where the focus is to be on Christ and not our cleavage. It is the collective, gracious, loving responsibility of all of the members of the church... and should be woman to woman out of love for one another and God's Holy Name.
Now, there is a definite responsibility on the part of the man to control his lust. How far do we go as women on this issue? Some men may get turned on by a women's ankles, another by her shoulders, another by beautiful eyes, etc. So men, do us a favor and do not expect us to be responsible for your extremes and lack of control. We should be very willing as woman to be submissive in the area of modesty, but there is a point in which the men MUST take responsibility.

As a community of saints, we are not looking for a ‘dress code’ but principles where our theology meets our closets.- Dave H.

As Christian women in the church you can be either a blessing or a distraction as this young man explains:

The one place I might think I wouldn’t have to face as much temptation is at church. But this is not always the case. When ladies I’m friends with dress immodestly, it definitely has a negative effect on our friendship. When she dresses immodestly, it doesn’t make it easy to see her as a sister in Christ. There’s a constant battle going on as I’m interacting with her. Communication becomes more difficult, but I’m also trying to fight temptation.
I also think that some ladies aren’t aware that even the little things can distract guys a lot — showing even a little part of their stomach, wearing a bag that has a strap that goes between their breasts, etc.

I’m so grateful for the friendships God has given me over the last year and a half and for the godly ladies in my small group. I’m so appreciative of the sacrifice that these ladies make to glorify God and to serve and care for the guys.

I heard a story of one of the ladies in our small group who went shopping and really liked a shirt she was trying on. But then she thought, "No, I can’t do this to the guys." That was the first time I had ever heard of anything like that, and it made me so grateful. It is such a blessing to have friends who care for me enough to be selfless and to sacrifice what might look attractive in order to help me and other guys with sexual lust.

When ladies dress modestly, it’s attractive and it makes me want to hang out with them. I think modesty is so attractive and helpful in friendships; it makes it easier for a friendship to be centered around God and for fellowship to be unhindered.

"Both Paul and Timothy were concerned that the Ephesian church be a godly testimony to society. For the women of the church to imitate the gaudy clothing styles of pagan women, to call attention to themselves, or to dress to lure men into illicit sexual relationships was to blaspheme the intent of the worship service." –John MacArthur

Godly men find modesty attractive. And single gals... those are the men you want to attract! They appreciate women who dress with self-control and restraint. They’re grateful for women who serve them by helping them fight the temptation to lust. But this is not just about proper attire on a Sunday morning. Read this testimony of a young man in college:

A day in the life of a college student pursuing purity:
Each and every day on campus is a battle. A battle against my sin, a battle against temptation, a battle against my depraved mind. Every morning I have to cry out for mercy, strength, and a renewed conviction to flee youthful lust. The Spirit is faithful to bring me the renewal I need and to prepare me to do war against my sin, yet temptations still exist.

I’m thankful God has created me to be attracted to women. However, campus is a loaded minefield. There are girls everywhere, and it is guaranteed that I will pass some attractive girls as I walk in between classes. To make it through the day unscathed, I either have to be actively engaging my mind and spirit in praying, quoting Scripture, listening to worship music, or looking at the sidewalk. Many days it takes all four to be safe. . . .

The thing that women do not seem to fully grasp is that the temptation toward lust does not stop. It is continual. It is aggressive. And it does all it can to lead men down to death. And women have a choice to help or deter the goal and purpose of lust. Sometimes when I see a girl provocatively dressed, I’ll say to myself, "She probably doesn’t even know that 101 guys are going to devour her in their minds today. But then again, maybe she does." To be honest, I don’t know the truth, the truth of why she chooses to dress the way she does, the way she chooses to walk, the way she chooses to act. I don’t know because I’ve never sat down with a girl and asked why. All I need to know is that the way she presents herself to the world is bait for my sinful mind to latch onto and I need to avoid it at all costs.

For the most part, the church serves as a sanctuary from the continual barrage of temptation toward sin. However, the church’s members are not yet free from sin, and there are girls who are ignorant and unaware of men’s sinful tendencies.

I must confess that even church can have several mines scattered about. To the girls who are ignorant, please serve your brother in Christ and have your dad screen your wardrobe. Ask your dad how you can better choose holiness over worldliness. He’s a guy, and he knows more than you on the issue.

And to the girls who don’t follow the pattern of the world: thank you. Thank you a million times over. You are following Scripture’s commands, and you are helping your brothers in the process.

"I hope this ardent desire to serve your brothers in Christ characterizes every woman in the church. But the church should also be a place where the unconverted can come dressed immodestly and be warmly welcomed, not self-righteously judged."-CJ Mahaney

The Bible NO WHERE forbids a woman from enhancing her appearance! Paul, in I Timothy is warning about excessive attention devoted to appearance at the expense of the Gospel and serving Christ. This will inevitably lead to pride and discontentment.

However, a woman CAN honor God by enhancing her personal appearance or bringing beauty to her environment.

God is the creator of beauty. God delights in beauty. All we need to verify this fact is to consider the beauty He created all around us: whether it is an elegant flower, or towering trees, or a meandering river, or billowy clouds or the majestic night sky. Every time we stop to take in one of these breathtaking scenes on display in God’s creation, we can’t help but be convinced that He delights in beauty!

[B]ecause we are created in the image of our Creator, each of us has this propensity to make things beautiful. That means, when we decorate our homes, or plant a lovely flower garden, or seek to add some form of beauty to our surroundings, even when we attempt to enhance our personal appearance—we are actually imitating and delighting in the works of our Great Creator.-Carolyn Mahaney

"It is not necessarily evil to wear stylish clothing and an attractive hairstyle. It is not sinful to wear make-up and jewelry. The Proverbs 31 woman wore colorful, high-quality clothing. The bride in Song of Solomon adorned her appearance with jewelry. We are told that Esther went through 12 months of beauty treatments-six months with oil and myrrh and six with perfumes and cosmetics. The Bible does not condemn wearing and using these things. It is wearing them for the wrong reasons that God's Word forbids"

So ladies CHECK YOUR MOTIVES!!! A Modesty Heart Check may be in order.

Read I Peter 3:3-5; I Timothy 2:9 and Proverbs 31:30

“Modest Apparel or adorn” – kosmios means ‘respectable, honorable, well-ordered.’ It is translated “of good behavior” in 1 Tim 3:2. Your clothes are to match/proclaim/adorn your godly behavior. It therefore does not refer only to clothing, but can mean "demeanor" or "attitude. " It encompasses both the attitude of the heart and proper adornment on the outside. Her clothing should reflect a heart focused on God.

“Propriety” – aidos has an interesting sense of both shame and honor, bashfulness and reverence (Heb 12:28).

“Moderation” – sophrosune means ‘soberness, soundness of mind, self-control, and reasonableness.’ Again, the context doesn’t allow for a girl to say, “but I don’t mean that when I wear this…”

Godly Fear- The Greek word translated "godly fear" (aid[ma]os) refers to modesty mixed with humility. It connotes a sense of shame--not shame in being a woman, but in any way inciting lust or distracting others from a proper worship of God. A woman with a proper sense of shame will dress in such a way as not to be a source of temptation. It implies morally rejecting anything dishonorable to God.

Putting This Together – We learn that adornment is a powerful thing (which is also proven by the huge apparel industry) and women know it. Much of what our culture tells young women to wear sends messages a godly woman should never want to send.

What are your clothes saying about your relationship with God? Are you exalting God or yourself? Your wardrobe is a public statement of your personal and private motivation. It should be an outward expression of the Gospel. It should promote Jesus and not "me". Your hearts WILL dictate your wardrobe.

So... who are the most beautiful women in the world?
Is it People magazine's choice according to their annual issue that contains a list of "The Fifty Most Beautiful People in the World." One year you may see a picture of Julia Roberts, a talented and attractive movie star... but what about the next year? Will Julia Roberts still be considered beautiful to their standards when she is 80?

Truly the most beautiful woman in the world:

lives her life by the Word of God
has a remarkable, pervading influence for good
knows that a woman gets her greatest joy and fulfillment in submitting entirely to the will of God
is a "light" in the world (Matt. 5:14-16), especially to her family
is not obsessed with carnal attractiveness and does not prize what is called "passing beauty" (Prov. 31:30)
esteems "the beauty of holiness" (Psa. 29:2)
is neither a nag nor a complainer
is spiritually attractive
has an inner beauty that becomes more and more radiant with every passing year
has a genuine attitude of humility that seeks to glorify God and serve others
is sensitive to her brother's in Christ and willingly serves them by purposely dressing in a manner that is not sensual
does not forsake her outward appearance

Please Read: Three Teen Young Men Define "A Real Woman"

Here is the Legacy of Biblical Womanhood Schedule
Press on in HIS truth and HIS love for HIS glory

Here are the sermons/ books/ blogs that inspired some of what was written here:

CJ Mahaney's Modesty Series (see modesty series index in that link that provides series 1 through 7)
Worldliness: Resisting the Seduction of a Fallen World
Girl Talk Blog
God's High Calling for Women
Christian Modesty and the Public Undressing of America
Modesty – Let’s Take A Good Look
The Council on Biblical Manhood and Womanhood
The Look: Does God Really Care What I Wear?
Sister... Show Mercy!

They hatched!!!

2009-05-10T17:14:00.001-07:00

Go HERE to see the original pictures of when we first discovered them in our Japanese Maple.

Legacy of Biblical MOMhood

2009-05-08T07:12:00.000-07:00

Kids have many influences in their lives that often steer them off course. Many of their responses in life's situations will feel natural to them, yet will leave them empty and alone.

Let's leave a legacy... an indelible imprint of Christ on our kids. As moms, We have a unique opportunity to point our children to Christ. Will we be the perfect example? No. Only Christ is the perfect example.

So what can we do in spite of our inability to be the PERFECT mom?
"... let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."

1. We need accountability. If we're honest with ourselves, we know those things that creep into our lives and entangle us. I personally need to be held accountable by the Word of God, by my husband, and by godly women who are not too timid to speak the truth in love to me.

2. We need to keep running the race. Persevere! And the only way we can, is by continually depending on the strength of the Lord. So, how do we find that path "marked out" for us? It is in God's Word. If we persevere in making God's Word a daily part of our necessary bread and water, we'll know the course to run. (Remember to BE a BEE!!!)

3. We need to keep our eyes on Christ. If we keep our eyes on Christ, the prize, than we will make it to the finish line without veering off in too many of those wrong paths. If we do veer off, we will know how to turn back... and if we don't turn where or when we should, than we have godly people in our lives to help us get back on track or to give us water when we are parched and growing weary.

I want to leave a legacy...
How will they remember me?
Did I choose to love? Did I point to GOD enough to make a mark on things?

I want to leave an offering...
A child of mercy and grace who blessed YOUR name unapologetically!
I want to leave that kind of legacy!

Are you a butterfly, botanist or a bee? ...When it comes to God's Word

2009-05-05T14:42:00.000-07:00

As I looked out into the garden one day, I saw three things. First, I saw a butterfly. The butterfly was beautiful, and it would alight on a flower and then it would flutter to another flower and then to another, and only for a second or two it would sit and it would move on. It would touch as many lovely blossoms as it could, but derived absolutely no benefit from it. Then I watched a little longer out my window and there came a botanist. And the botanist had a big notebook under his arm and a great big magnifying glass. The botanist would lean over a certain flower and he would look for a long time and then he would write notes in his notebook. He was there for hours writing notes, closed them, stuck them under his arm, tucked his magnifying glass in his pocket and walked away. The third thing I noticed was a bee, just a little bee. But the bee would light on a flower and it would sink down deep into the flower and it would extract all the nectar and pollen that it could carry. It went in empty every time and came out full. (A. Naismith, 1200 Notes, Quotes and Anecdotes [Chicago: Moody, 1962], p. 15.)

How to Get the Most From God's Word

Flash Flood Today in Oklahoma at Husband's Parents

2009-05-01T19:46:00.001-07:00

My two girls spent the night at their grandparent's house last night. They woke up to rain that ended up quickly becoming a flash flood. It caused significant damage to the walk-out basement in their two-story home. One of my daughters was downstairs with Grandma when Grandma suddenly told her to go upstairs. A rush of water started coming out of the toilets and then the door came off its hinges as the water rose to 6 feet. The girls were scared when they heard the door crash open because their grandma was still down there trying to save pictures and her hand-sewn quilts. Grandma can't swim! She made it up the stairs with only one quilt and a few pictures. Grandma was completely soaked. The girls were crying and very worried about their grandma. We praise God they are all safe.

“The Lord sat as King at the flood; yes the Lord sits as King forever. The Lord will give strength to His people; the Lord will bless His people with peace.” (Psalm 29:10-11)

The side of the main road leading to grandma's

A restaurant on the way to grandma's

Driving in water...

Almost to grandma's house

Approaching their private driveway.

The horse stable next door. The other neighbor's horses were swimming in 5 feet of water.

Grandpa's private driveway cracked.

Their walk-out basement several hours after the flash flood

Yep, that is fecal matter. Water was rushing out of the toilets.

The smell was pretty bad.

This is the door that came off its hinges as the water rushed in up to 6 feet high. The surrounding windows were cracked.

A ride-on toy car rushed in also.

The water was up these stairs. You can see the fecal matter on the carpeted stairs to the right.

My daughter, Katie, said she saw the couch floating in the water and it hit the stairs and floated back.

You can see toys and movies that floated out of the house as the flood waters receded.

These are the stairs I walked up at my wedding. We had a beautiful outdoor wedding under a blanket of HUGE oaks there at my husband's parent's house.

The water went all the way to the platform of the playground.

This is the door that flew off. The water rose to the top of this doorway.

More trash, toys, etc.

There is a little box of Legos that floated out the door with a lamp, etc.

You cannot usually see the creek from this window.

"Your BUT is getting bigger as you speak"

2009-05-01T08:48:00.000-07:00

This is what I say to some of my children and even some adults I have counseled when they start making excuses instead of taking responsibility. In other words, the more excuses you make, the bigger your BUT gets. Methinks, the Lord Jesus has to make enough excuses for us.

but, But, BUT...

When I have more time, I will write about how to keep your 'but' from growing at all.

(I'll give you a hint: "Let your 'yes' be 'yes' and your 'no' be 'no'...")

Set a guard, 0 LORD, over my mouth;
Keep watch over the door of my lips. (Psalm 141:3)

Interesting Results of a Popular Google Search

2009-04-30T07:12:00.000-07:00

If you google "healing ministry of Jesus" you will be led here: http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&client=firefox-a&rls=org.mozilla%3Aen-US%3Aofficial&hs=unr&q=healing+ministry+of+jesus&btnG=Search

I get the most visits from that google search and they (from all over the world) always pop over and HOPEFULLY listen to my pastors sermon. It is excellent and if you have not had a chance to listen to it... do.

Here is the sermon audio by my pastor "The Healing Ministry of Jesus"

Also read: The TRUTH about Healing written by my pastor.

A Discovery While Doing Botany with my Girls

2009-04-29T10:42:00.000-07:00

This is a Japanese Maple in my front bed. It is one of my favorite trees.

As we got closer while we were collecting a variety of leaves to study for Botany, we noticed something unusual.

There was a nest. I told the girls that we needed to be careful not to disturb it or touch it, so I grabbed my iPhone to take pictures.

We couldn't tell if there were any eggs, though we did see a bird fly away as we were picking off a leaf from the tree for our collection.

Even though I couldn't see what I was taking a picture of, sure enough, there were 3 beautiful blue eggs. I started singing "God of Wonders" by Chris Tomlin.

Legacy of Biblical Womanhood Study: Week 2

2009-04-29T05:07:00.000-07:00

The following are my notes that I used to begin this session. I cannot duplicate here the amazing discussion that ensued, but it was exciting to witness their enthusiasm for such a thing as submission from a Biblical perspective. My hope is that some of the women that attended the study will share on-line here what they shared at the study. We also had a great discussion on the questions provided in the book, "Biblical Portrait of Womanhood: Discovering and Living Out God's Plan for Our Lives" by Nanci Leigh DeMoss.
I encourage you all to prayerfully and genuinely ask your husband's how you may or may not be measuring up in light of these questions. He will have the greatest insight. God-willing, he will be gentle and honest and God-willing, you will genuinely receive what he has to say with a desire to honor the Lord.

UPDATE: As most of you know, we have guys working almost everyday to help us complete our backyard projects. Two of the guys were on a break sitting in their truck. They were having a discussion on their wives. One in particular appears to be having a lot of struggles in his marriage. My husband is on vacation this week and is working hard to get things done in the backyard as well. Jon walked past their truck and one of them asked, "How do you get your wife to listen to you?"
My husband's succinct answer: "She loves Jesus."
They have observed Jon and I interacting and working together on several occasions. We actually have fun together on these projects, though we do have our moments. Perhaps the following study will give you an idea of why it is such a genuine joy to be with and work with my husband most of the time. And ladies, though my husband is a wonderful godly man, it is not because he is perfect. Sometimes I want to ring his neck and he wants to ring mine.
Bottomline: We both love Jesus and my husband is a true example of Christ in handling a spouse, me, that at one time did NOT love the Lord. Just watch our marriage testimony video on the left sidebar. And by the way, it is a true miracle that I am doing this study. I use to be a feminist that did not grow up with a mother. I was very independent and when I walked down that come as you are, easy-believism aisle for fire-insurance, I became a Christian by mouth only with a firm grip on who I thought God was according to me.

Why was I created as a woman?
According to God's Word:

Read Psalm 139:14-18, 23-24

A few examples of women’s ministry and value according to Scripture:

Psalm 68:11b (vital proclaiming role in evangelism)
Acts 1:12-14 (after Lord’s ascension, women gathered with apostles and disciples in upper room)
Acts 5:14 (connected to the life of the church)
Acts 12:12-13 (John Mark’s mother, Mary, gave her home as a meeting place for saints in Jerusalem)
Romans 16:1-16 (Paul named 26 people for service to Christ, 8 were honored women)
Acts 18:24-28 (Aquila AND his wife instruct Apollos more perfectly in the knowledge of the Lord)
Romans 16:2 (ministry/ service to the saints)
Galatians 3:28 (In Christ neither male nor female)

Women are equal to men in the image of God, equal spiritually before God, equally important to God. In the church and home, the woman’s divine function brings balance. This discussion is not a matter of equality. It is about our divinely designed roles. That is what is different. And hence the question “why was I created as a woman?” is revealed beautifully in God’s Word because this is where women are set free to be what God designed them to be.

Read Genesis 2:21-23; I Timothy 2:13

The woman was made of a rib out of the side of Adam; not made out of his head to rule over him; nor out of his feet to be trampled upon by him, but out of his side to be equal with him, under his arm to be protected and near his heart to be beloved. –Matthew Henry

Now turn to our main passages: Genesis 2:18; I Corinthians 11:7-12; Genesis 3:20

Helper suitable: (read Genesis 2:18)

“I am on assignment from God to help my husband.”- Elizabeth Elliott

This divine assignment was created by special grace and is a special provision from God Himself.
This does not relegate the woman to doormat status.
This does not make one a slave and the other a tyrant.
This is not a competition, but companionship.
It is a team effort that complements or cooperates with the husband as they work towards a common goal: to serve Christ.
To accomplish this, there must be a willing yielding or submission to God’s design which leads to contentment and true joy.

Which came first? (I Corinthians 11:8-9; Genesis 2:21-23; I Timothy 2:13; Genesis 2:18)

The man was created before the woman
The woman was created from the man
Adam was created first and God gave Him dominion, not slavish domination
The woman was created from man for man, to be a suitable helper
God is all-powerful and could have created them simultaneously, but He didn’t.
Adam named her woman why? Because she came out of the man.
Man was not created from woman for woman

When sin entered the world it ruined and twisted man's humble, loving headship into hostile domination in some men and lazy indifference in others. Sin twisted woman's intelligent, willing submission into manipulative obsequiousness in some women and brazen insubordination in others. Sin didn't create headship and submission; it ruined them and distorted them and made them ugly and destructive. –John Piper

Biblical Submission: (read I Corinthians 11:7-12)

“Authority can't function without submission, and submission can't function without authority. They are mutually dependent.”- John MacArthur

Remember that Biblical submission is not enslaving. Let’s look at why.

Authority-Submission Model according to Scripture: (1 Corinthians 11:3 and Ephesians 5:23)

Human Level: Man is the head of woman
Human-Divine Level: Christ is the head of the church
Totally Divine Level: The Father is the Head of the Son

How is this Authority-Submission Model based on love?

The Father loves the Son (John 5:19-20; John 3:35)
The Son loves the Father (Luke 22:42; Ephesians 5:1)
Christ loves the church (Ephesians 5:25-26)
The church loves Christ (Ephesians 5:24)
The husband loves the wife (Ephesians 5:25-33)
The wife loves the husband (Titus 2:4; Ephesians 5:33)

Only Christ's word is absolute. No wife should follow a husband into sin. You can't do that in reverence to Christ. Submission does not mean surrendering your brain. It does not mean no input on decisions or no influence on her husband. Submission does not come from ignorance or incompetence. It comes from what is fitting and appropriate (Col. 3:18) in God's created order.- John Piper

Conclusion:

We all labor together, men and women, mutually and ultimately for HIS glory
We were created to reflect the image of His glory. (Genesis 1:26-28; Ephesians 1:6, 12, 14; 3:10-21; 5:17-6:4)
All that you do as a woman created by God for His glory will either help or hinder this cause.
Everything in your flesh cringes at the very thought of submission because our flesh tendency is to bring glory to ourselves. However, God will not share His glory for good reason. He alone is worthy. (Rev. 5; Isa 42:8; Isa 6:1-3)
Men and women have different assignments with different functions, which has nothing to do with inferiority or inequality.

We often get so busy in our day that we miss out on the blessings of ministry right before us. We have our lists, our agenda, and then the Lord throws in a ministry opportunity. Sometimes we have to set aside our busyness for those divine assignments.

The morning of this study I was in a rush to get home from taking the twins to school so that I could prepare for the women to come over for this study. I wanted to provide drinks and snacks, even though this was an after-lunch meeting. I don't usually stop in at the Braum's mini grocery store, but with my agenda of what I wanted to accomplish set before me, I had put myself in a bit of a time crunch. So, I stopped in to Braum's thinking I would get right out.
Problem was, God had a different plan. He had some divine appointments lined up. Not only did I run into a mother of a Providence student and had a sweet conversation with her, but the elderly man at the register had a testimony that I needed to hear. I initially found my mind racing through my check-list and thinking 'I really don't have time for this.' But, the Lord in His goodness, changed my heart, my agenda and helped me realize that all of those things I thought had to get done were not important. What was important was, by His grace, willingly submitting to God's divine appointment and receiving an amazing blessing from this man's testimony
Our conversation began as he asked how many children I had. He had been listening to the conversation with my Providence friend as we spoke of our children as blessings from God. He found that unusual in today's society and was greatly encouraged to hear us speak this way of our children. He shared that it always breaks his heart when people do not realize this.
"They just don't get it," he said with a sad, soft-spoken voice.
When I told him I had six, his eyes lit up:"WOW! You are truly blessed!"
He asked the ages of my children... 6, 7, 7, 8, 14 and 15. When I said 14 and 15, his eyes looked to the side and went a little dim as though he was recalling a memory. Then he spoke of his son who died at age 14 from a heart condition as he was awaiting a transplant. He told me that he and his wife lovingly never gave their son false hope about his condition. In their honest approach, they never gave up hope, but they also rested in God's sovereign will. He shared that his son asked "Why me?" and his tearful response was "Why not you?" as he recalled the sacrifice of God's only Son.
This man's son died prepared for eternity.
The store seemed empty, except for him and me. He asked if he could help me out with my bags. Even though I could have done it myself, I told him that it would be a great honor to hear more of his testimony. We spoke of Scripture, God's purposes, perfect provisions in trials and afflictions. I walked slowly with him, not wanting the conversation to end. It was worshipful and I am so thankful beyond words for that unexpected divine appointment.

I told the women at the study this story. There were many tears. The reality is, I have missed too many of these divine appointments because 'I was too busy' and unwilling to submit to God's design for my day.
So yes, Biblical submission is modeled for us in the trinity. And it branches out into all areas of our lives as we look to Christ as the perfect example. Our most important divine assignment is our husbands. Remember, the Elizabeth Elliott quote I shared: “I am on assignment from God to help my husband.”- Elizabeth Elliott
And as I have shared in this Braum's story, submission also includes willingly laying aside our agenda for those sweet divine appointments.

Here is the Legacy of Biblical Womanhood Study Schedule
Please memorize, if you haven't already, 2 Timothy 3:16-17
The next study will be answering, according to Scripture, the question: "What makes a beautiful woman" (pgs 10-12 in the booklet)

The World's Perspective of Women

2009-04-21T07:24:00.000-07:00

If this is the world's perspective, in what category are you in your marriage?

If you are a Christian single female, do you take on the world's perspective as illustrated here?

Should there be such a striking difference in how the world views a single woman of God verses a happily married woman of God?

Prayer for the Women: Legacy of Biblical Womanhood

2009-04-20T08:01:00.001-07:00

Teach us, dear Lord, to serve You as You deserve; to give and not to count the cost; to toil for your glory, without complaint; to labor and not ask for any reward; to long for and seek after Your will. Help us to pray from the depths of our heart and not just with our mouths. Cause us to be ready in season and out... ready to do Your will; to proclaim Your Truth according to Your Word; embracing our high and holy calling as women according to Your design.

Press on in HIS truth and HIS love for HIS glory,
Lisa Nunley

Suggested Assignments to Prepare for Lesson 2 of the 'Legacy of Biblical Womanhood' Study

2009-04-15T17:22:00.000-07:00

Lesson 2: Meet April 28, 2009 at 12:30
Pgs 8-10 of "Biblical Portrait of Womanhood: Discovering and Living Out God's Plan for Our Lives" by Nanci Leigh DeMoss

1. Do your regular morning Bible reading. Be deliberate and diligent no matter how you feel. Make sure you read How is the Word of God to be Read? "Nobody ever outgrows Scripture; the book widens and deepens with our years."-Charles Haddon Spurgeon

2. Pray for the women in the study. Pray purposefully and fervently. Though we are a part of a quiet revolution, this is a battle. The richness of God's Word ought to determine our prayer, not the poverty of our heart. -Dietrich Bonhoeffer

3. Please memorize, if you haven't already, Proverbs 14:1
"Zeal without knowledge is like a mettled horse without eyes, or like a sword in a madman's hand; and there is no knowledge where there is not the Word: for if they reject the Word of the Lord, and act not by that, 'What wisdom is in them?' saith the prophet" (Jer 8:9; Isa 8:20). -John Bunyan

4. Go through each Scripture listed under "Why was I created as a woman?" Consider digging deeper than just reading them. What I like to do is also read the Scriptures listed in the margin of my Bible that go along with the Scripture(s) I am studying. For example, when I look up Genesis 2:18, the Scripture in the margin leads me to I Corinthians 11:8, 9. When I look up I Corinthians 11:7-9, the Scriptures in the margin includes Genesis 1:26-27, 5:1, 9:6, Genesis 2:18, 21-23. And when I look up Genesis 3:20, the margin leads me to 2 Corinthians 11:3 and I Timothy 2:13 (with a note that the name Eve means life or living.) I have found this to be so enjoyable as it helps me consider each Scripture according to the whole counsel of God as well as protecting me from taking the Scriptures out of context.

5. Evaluate your attitude, words and actions according to part 2 starting on page 21.

6. Go through the list of questions after each Scripture given for "Why was I created as a woman?"
You do not have to share your answers. What you can do is pray that the Lord will help you honestly evaluate what changes in your life need to be made so that you can be a Biblical Woman for His glory.

7. Maintain a notebook that includes what we are studying and prayer requests.

Study Schedule

First meeting summary

Legacy of Biblical Womanhood: Week 1

2009-04-15T07:40:00.000-07:00

We kicked off this meeting with a luncheon and introduction to what we will be studying. About 15 women came to this first meeting and I was greatly encouraged by each one of them and their hearts to join this quiet revolution.
This revolution involves women that long to pattern their lives after God's Word as we encourage one another Biblically and pray for one another fervently to pursue the purpose for which we were created. We have about 5 women following along with us as a cyber-study across the globe. Below are words shared with the women at the study.

Elizabeth Elliott puts it this way:
"[Biblical Womanhood] is a gift, a Divine gift, to be accepted with both hands, and to thank God for. Because remember, it was His idea."

In otherwords, this is not an oppressive, door-mat study where heaps of rules will be conjured up for you to follow. We will not be telling you how long your skirts must be or how low you can wear your blouse. What we will do is study the Scriptures with the goal to neither add to or take away from God's Holy Word. In doing this, the Holy Spirit will be able to do the work of convicting and encouraging you in your role as a woman, including what is appropriate in word, deed and action. It will be a study that is exciting because it will promote God's truly fulfilling design for us as women whose lives are poured out for others for God's glory.

"Biblical manhood and womanhood is a deeply satisfying gift of grace from a loving God... it is not onerous or oppressive. It does not promote pride or self-exaltation. It conforms to who we are by God's good design. Therefore it is fulfilling in the deepest sense of the word."-Piper

Our focus will be inward adornment and the freedom of being a woman of God. Not the bondage rooted in the feminist movement based on the world's view.
On that note, no one involved in this study will ever be asked the following questions:

"How does this verse in Scripture make you feel?"
"What do you think this verse means to you?"
or "What is your opinion of this Bible verse?"

Why? Because God's Word I can trust. My feelings, I cannot. God's Word does not change. My feelings change constantly... and if I base what I believe on how a Scripture makes me feel or what it means to me or my opinion, than I will become a cherry picker and be easily tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine. We have enough opinions flouting around out there.

"Isn't it amazing that almost everyone has an opinion to offer about the Bible, and yet so few have studied it?" -R. C. Sproul

This study is about the application of Biblical Theology as revealed in God's knowable, unchanging, applicable Word of Truth and NOT who I imagine God is from some sentimental, me-centered perspective that is based on relative roller-coaster ride of self-sustained religion truth... and if it ain't Biblical, it ain't theological.

"We should not interpret Scripture in the light of our experiences, but we should examine our experiences in the light of the teaching of Scripture."-Martyn Lloyd-Jones

This study will not fall into the feel-good, relative truth, me-centered trap. I will never provide 7 ways to be a better wife or whatever. There will be no Scripture manipulation and no gimmicks. We are going to get out of the way and let God's Word do its work because it is powerful enough and truly sufficient. Charles Spurgeon was once asked, "How do you defend the Bible?" "Very easy" he responded. "The same way I defend a lion. I simply let it out of its cage." -Charles Haddon Spurgeon

"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."-2 Timothy 3:16-17

God's Truth is THE truth and has nothing to do with how I feel or my best life now according to ME. We have become so focused on ourselves that the Gospel message has become muddied or lost. With that in mind and according to God's Word, the only focus that will be on ourselves is in asking questions like: "How is my life measuring up to God's standard?" and "What needs to change in my life so that I can be a Biblical Woman?"
The focus will begin with the log in your own eye which brings me to part two in the book we are using, "Biblical Portrait of Womanhood: Discovering and Living Out God's Plan for Our Lives" by Nanci Leigh DeMoss. Part two (pg. 21) of this booklet will not be specifically studied, but will be an evaluation tool woven throughout the study. It asks the questions:

1. "Do my Attitudes build up or tear down?"

2. "Do my Words build up or tear down?"

3. "Do my Actions build up or tear down?"

"It is time for women of Biblical faith to reclaim our territory. We know the Designer. We have His instruction manual. If we don't display the Divine design of His female creation, no one will. But if we do, it will be a profound testimony to a watching, needy world." -Susan Hunt

Here is the Legacy of Biblical Womanhood Study Schedule
Please memorize, if you haven't already, Proverbs 14:1
The next study will be answering, according to Scripture, the question: "Why was I created as a woman?" (pgs 8-10 in the booklet)

And remember... you were not created to be a drip! (Proverbs 19:13b)...Even when your husband is driving.

A wife was making fried eggs for her husband for breakfast. Suddenly her husband burst into the kitchen.

"Careful... Careful!!! Put in some more butter! You're cooking too many at once. Too many! Turn them! Turn them now! We need more butter. Where are we going to get more butter? They're going to stick! Careful... Careful!!! I said be careful! You never listen to me when you're cooking! Never! Turn them! Hurry up! Are you crazy? Have you lost your mind? Don't forget to salt them. You know you always forget to salt them. Use the salt. Use the salt! The salt!"

The wife stared at him and asked, "What is wrong with you? You think I don't know how to fry a couple of eggs?"

The husband calmly replied, "I wanted to show you what it feels like when I'm driving with you in the car."

The Peipons, The Duggars and The Ukraine Medical Outreach

2009-04-14T07:39:00.000-07:00

I will write more on this incredible visit later, but for now, consider reading these three posts by Marianna Peipon. I am fixing to have several women in my home to start our Biblical Womanhood study, so I must go for now. Enjoy!!! Each post is complete with lots of fun pictures...

Post One: The Peipons arrive

Post Two: Presenting their ministry throughout the day in our home

Post Three: Details on some of the families and helpers

Post Four: Three blogger- Ukrainiac, Practicing Theology and Deo Volente, together at the Tulsa airport before the Peipons depart

Legacy of Biblical Womanhood Study Schedule for "Biblical Portrait of Womanhood"

2009-04-13T12:02:00.000-07:00

A quiet revolution of women willing to pattern their lives after God's Word will be gathering in my home twice a month beginning tomorrow. This group of women will be studying Biblical Womanhood as we pursue fulfilling the purpose for which we were created.

We will begin our study using a little booklet called:
"Biblical Portrait of Womanhood: Discovering and Living Out God's Plan for our Lives" by Nancy Leigh DeMoss

April 14, 2009 Introduction and Self-Evaluation (pg.22)
Luncheon to precede this study.
Note: We will begin at noon today. Please bring a finger food to share.

April 28, 2009 Why was I created as a woman? (pg.8)

May 12, 2009 What makes a beautiful woman? (pg.10)

May 26, 2009 How does a woman of God conduct herself? (pg.12)

June 9, 2009 What is God’s plan for me as a wife? (pg.13)

Study on your own: How does God want to use me in others’ lives? (pg.16)

o Please bring your book and a notebook each meeting.
o Some of the teenagers will be available to look after children.
o We will begin at 12:30 unless we are beginning a new study, which means we will begin at noon and kick off the new study with a luncheon.
o In the summer months, kids can swim (please remember modesty).
o There will be structure to each meeting, with flexibility.
o Each meeting will include prayer focused on study,teaching and discussion on questions for each topic, prayer needs.

We will begin our study in "Disciplines of a Godly Woman" by Barbara Hughes on June 23rd!
I will provide a study schedule soon.

The Often Misapplied Words of Christ: "It is Finished"

2009-04-11T10:25:00.000-07:00

IT IS FINISHED: "How terribly have these blessed words of Christ been misunderstood, misappropriated and misapplied! ...The "finished work of Christ" avails you nothing if your heart has never been broken through an agonizing consciousness of your sinfulness." -A.W. Pink

Read the rest here: http://www.pbministries.org/books/pink/Miscellaneous/it_is_finished.htm

Is the cross a witness to MY infinite worth?

2009-04-10T09:07:00.000-07:00

"It horribly skews the meaning of the cross when contemporary prophets of self-esteem say that the cross is a witness to my infinite worth... The biblical perspective is that the cross is a witness to the infinite worth of God's glory, and a witness to the immensity of the sin of my pride."-John Piper

Enough said.

Jon and I on Wretchedradio.com with Todd Friel

2009-04-08T10:23:00.000-07:00

Go here: Wretched Daily Update Archives

Looking forward to homeschooling my girls with:

2009-04-05T08:30:00.000-07:00

Curriculum:
1. Beautiful Feet
Teaching Early American History primary Through Literature with journaling

2. Pearables
Home Economics, Hope Chest, Character Building Kingdom Stories/ The Narrow Way

3. Math-U-See
I also found free on-line games to drill the girls on time, counting money, etc. HERE

4. Apologia Elementary Botany
I just got the book and it is very impressive!!! It also encourages keeping a journal of Latin and Latin root words, etc. introduced throughout this excellent curriculum; because not only does English have Latin roots, but so much science is Latin based and for very good reason. These books will go over why.

5. Free Spanish
Soon, I will start them in Great Commission Languages: Spanish

6. Little House on the Prairie Unit Study
This will be our primary summer activity along with Botany

7. All sorts of free on-line learning games HERE, as well as free on-line geography games HERE which will also help us study geography with a purpose- from the perspective of missions and prayer

Just for fun:
1. Free Funbrain Word Roots

2. Word Roots by Critical Thinking
(I did this with my boys when I homeschooled them full time and they LOVED it)

I also just ordered:
1. Princess & the Kiss: A Story of God's Gift of Purity

2. Along with Life Lessons from the 'Princess and the Kiss' (Revive Our Hearts)

3. A Little Girl After God's Own Heart: Learning God's Ways in My Early Days

Other activities the girls will do:
1. Sewing, knitting and cooking with grandma
2. Gymnastics

Deo Volente

And yet, that void consumes me

Tears of Repentance

The Gospel shows us how unsparingly God deals with sin

Do you want to know God's Will?

Two-step God-Centered "Repentance Program"

Total Depravity of Man and New Birth

The Hope of His Calling

What are the essential elements of the gospel?

Why prepare your testimoy and tips on how to do it

Ordo Salutis

What God's Word says about being Elected, Chosen, Predestined, Foreknown, Adopted

My Oldest 2 Boys' Band

Christ-Life Tree

So, I really miss writing...

Here's the thing...

Nunley Swimming Pool Rules

Legacy of Biblical Womanhood Study Schedule: "Disciplines of a Godly Woman"

Biblical Portrait of Womanhood

Sound Doctrine Matters

Legacy of Biblical Womanhood: "What is God’s plan for me as a wife?"

Operation Outcry

But, " It wasn't that long ago that there was no written Word available."

Legacy of Biblical Womanhood Study Schedule: "Biblical Portrait of Womanhood"

Would you pray these prayers for me?

A More Effective Examination

Photo Booth Pic from Tyler Birthday Bash

SHUT UP!!!

Legacy of Biblical Womanhood Study: Week 4 "How should a woman of God conduct herself?"

I have no idea what to title this...

Head Coverings: As a Christian Woman, Am I Supposed to Wear One?

"I ascribe my change wholly to God."

Are you stepping out in faith? or are you being foolish and testing God?

Reformed Rap? from my pastor

Mission Accomplished: The cross will save all for whom it was intended

Dead-Beat Dad vs. Pro-Choice Woman: What's the difference?

Not a Hint of Meekness

Carrie Prejean: courage coupled with a lack of clear Biblical thinking

From my pastor

Legacy of Biblical Womanhood Study: Week 3 "What Makes a Woman Beautiful?"

They hatched!!!

Legacy of Biblical MOMhood

Are you a butterfly, botanist or a bee? ...When it comes to God's Word

Flash Flood Today in Oklahoma at Husband's Parents

"Your BUT is getting bigger as you speak"

Suggested Readings for the Legacy of Biblical Womanhood group

Interesting Results of a Popular Google Search

A Discovery While Doing Botany with my Girls

Legacy of Biblical Womanhood Study: Week 2

The World's Perspective of Women

Prayer for the Women: Legacy of Biblical Womanhood

Suggested Assignments to Prepare for Lesson 2 of the 'Legacy of Biblical Womanhood' Study

Legacy of Biblical Womanhood: Week 1

The Peipons, The Duggars and The Ukraine Medical Outreach

Legacy of Biblical Womanhood Study Schedule for "Biblical Portrait of Womanhood"

The Often Misapplied Words of Christ: "It is Finished"

Is the cross a witness to MY infinite worth?

Jon and I on Wretchedradio.com with Todd Friel

Looking forward to homeschooling my girls with: