To Blog or not To Blog... Is not the question. Where To Blog is... LOL!

So ya... I am still in the blogging world, and I know it's bad to not blog for more than 2 months. I just came on to this blog and saw my last blog post was like July. My 'followers' will not follow anymore if I don't post regularly. Yep, I get it. However, my problem is I have several blogs on the go... for several different aspects of my life. Unfortunately due to timing as well, I haven't written alot in most of them.


So I figured I would link to some of the blog posts I have written in the past bit, and then I would write an updated post on this blog, and on each of the others.

LOST - What's the Big Deal?
http://freshasadaisydevotionals.blogspot.com/2010/09/lost-whats-big-deal.html
(Fresh As A Daisy Devotionals - September 11, 2010)


NAME-DROPPING
http://stampoutthedevil.blogspot.com/2010/09/name-dropping.html
(Stamp Out The Devil - September 4, 2010)

BLOG-CATCH-UP FUN and SPREAD YOUR WINGS & FLY(basically the same post)
http://stampoutthedevil.blogspot.com/2010/10/blog-catch-up-fun.html
http://freshasadaisydevotionals.blogspot.com/2010/10/if-anyone-is-in-christ-he-is-new.html
(Stamp Out the Devil - October 1, 2010)
(Fresh as a Daisy Devotionals - October 2, 2010)

ENJOY!
Be Blessed and Be a Blessing!

SORRY I'VE BEEN GONE SO LONG...

God has been working in my heart & spirit, and I have not forgotten about this BLOG. I apologize to any followers who have come, and received nothing new. I actually like to re-read different blogs, and gain new revelation regarding the topics or verses covered.

I am going forward more with 'CRE8TED 2 SHINE', and seeing what God will do when I use the gifts and talents that He has given me for His Kingdom and for His glory!

Since I have completed the 30-Day Makeover, I have purchased the book 'BECOMING GOD'S TRUE WOMAN' by NANCY LEIGH-DEMOSS, and other books regarding girls and women of God. I am also now involved in a BOOK CLUB at our church, where we are reading and studying the book 'LINEAGE OF GRACE' by FRANCINE RIVERS. So I look forward in anticipation of the things that will transpire this coming year! HOPE YOU WILL JOIN ME!

...MORE INFO. TO COME!

Be blessed & Be a blessing!

30-Day TRUE WOMAN Makeover - Looking Back...

"put on a happy face..."

WOW! It's hard to believe that the 'challenge' is done (but not, if you know what I mean)... I have grown so much and learned so much, and this was the PERFECT time for me to be a part of this '30-Day True Woman Make-over'. I think to the verse in Esther, 'for such a time as this...' ("Do not think that because you are in the king's house you alone of all the Jews will escape. For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?" - Esther 4:13-15) So much is going on in my life spiritually and physically, emotionally and socially, and I am sooooo blessed to know that I don't have to be the 'VIRTUAL' woman, yet I can be WHO GOD CALLED ME TO BE, as a 'VIRTUOUS' woman.

What a true blessing this has been, and if you have journeyed along with me, then I pray that you were blessed as well in your own journey, but that you saw the life of another 'Christian woman' who was far from perfect, become a woman that God can use. I love how God can take the ORDINARY and turn it (or them) into something (or someone) who can be EXTRAORDINARY through His power and annointing!

This is truly something that does need to be shared, with the next generation, and I am going to begin that teaching and training very soon~~ Anyone joining me? (not actually joining me, but doing it in your own home, church, town/city, around the world... etc.)

A prayer to bless you with... ALL my sista's in the Lord (whoever you may be)...

"We thank you LORD for YOUR HAND at work in these human circumstances that are trying to distract us from doing YOUR WORK elsewhere, and within this situation as well. Thank you Lord for allowing us to grow EACH ONE OF US as individuals which You have called to do Your good work. God what YOU put together, let no man put asunder... but God I pray that WHAT YOU DO NOT PUT TOGETHER (and what man puts together without You) will be put asunder... Let us THINK about ALL that is on our hearts and minds, as you have asked us to, 'whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.' (Philippians 4:8) and I claim that we all CAN & WILL pray, 'I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. (All of us who are mature should take such a view of things.) And if on some point [I] think differently, that too God will make clear to [me].' (Philippians 3:14-15)

I also pray GOD right now in the NAME OF JESUS, that you will touch the hearts and spirits and minds and emotions of me and ALL my 'sisters' (those I know and love, and those I don't)... that you will grant us Your forgiveness, strength, and the release of your peace and love in our lives as a whole. Bring us all closer together as spiritual sisters, daughters, mentors and mothers, and closer to You as our HEAVENLY FATHER. God remove any bitterness or depression (or other negative things that are not of You) that may be sitting idle in our hearts, minds and spirits, our wills, our emotions, our conscious and our subconscious, our intellect and such... Fill that void with the fruit of Your Spirit, that we ALL may move on in this to all that YOU HAVE CALLED US TO BE AS WOMEN of GOD!  That WE may be an example to other women (younger & older) around us, but especially to our younger generations. Help us as the 'younger' generations honour and respect the 'older' generations as well! Jesus, YOU are the Great Redeemer, and You do hold us all in your hand Father, so just let Your Spirit be released in us all, and flow so that we may flow in Your will and Your ways... Let Your Spirit fall, and empower us to walk strong and with authority and power as YOUR DAUGHTERS of Faith! Let us not 'fall asleep' anymore, but let us run with perseverance to the finish... God, guide our steps, our words, our thoughts, and our actions so that all we think, feel, say and do will glorify YOU!

I close with the verse, and pray it for ALL my sisters (and brothers too) - 'And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.' (Philippians 4:7)

IN JESUS' PRECIOUS NAME,

AMEN!!"

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING,

30-Day TRUE WOMAN Make-Over Day 30

WEHOO!!! Welcome to DAY 30... it's the end, yet it's just the beginning!!

Today's topic is - A LASTING KINDNESS
Today's Bible verse is Proverbs 31:30 (& I guess 31, because there is no day #31) - "Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate."

We've made it to the end... and that is what we want, being a woman of virtue with a lasting kindness. Each characteristic we have been through in the last 29 days (and today), we want to be lasting in our lives. We don't just show it once, and then move on... it is to be a part of our lives forever. This 'Make-over' doesn't just stop today. We need to keep living out what we have learned.

"LASTING" by definition is:

–adjective

1.continuing or enduring a long time; permanent; durable: a lasting friendship.

–noun

2.a strong, durable, closely woven fabric for shoe uppers, coverings on buttons, etc.

3.Archaic. the quality of surviving or continuing and maintaining strength, effectiveness, etc.

"KINDNESS" by definition is:

–noun

1.the state or quality of being kind: kindness to animals.

2.a kind act; favor: his many kindnesses to me.

3.kind behavior: I will never forget your kindness.

4.friendly feeling; liking.

Kindness is one of the 'fruit of the Spirit'. We want a kindness and love to endure a long time, and to continue permanently. A kindness and love that survives through it all, and maintains strength and effectiveness. WOW!

I love how the dictionary defines some words with the actual word... that is just silly. "The state or quality of being...____". What indeed does 'quality' mean? A quality is a 'distinctive characteristic' (dictionary.com). Therefore this kindness is something we have to portray or show in our character. It helps people to distinguish you from others of the world. The Bible does say that Jesus told His disciples "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." ~John 13:34-35 NIV 

Most women of the world think that outer beauty will distinguish them from others, yet it's the 'inner beauty' that makes us set apart. The Spirit living inside of us, makes us more delightful. This leads us into our verses for today, "Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate." (Proverbs 31:30 & 31) An outer charm and beauty can be deceiving, for on the inside the beautiful person can be anything but beautiful. Outer beauty can fade and be 'fleeting' as the Scripture says, as we all get older and wrinkly, etc... but inner beauty can never fade away as long as we stick with God and His Holy Spirit. A woman who fears the Lord (not in the scared aspect of the word, but more of a reverance) is to be praised. The gate of a city, is where the prominent people are revered and praised. The praise of others, encouraging her to continue in her walk will be uplifting to her, and also to others who can follow her example. She however, does not need the praise of man, her reward in Heaven is much greater. This is what she is living for... why she has become and lived out the life of a 'virtuous woman'.

Each of these characteristics, each on their own are marvelous, but together give the 'whole package' that God desires each of us to walk in. We are His daughters, and we need to walk in ALL that He has given us. The power from the Spirit, the Blood from the Son, and the authority from the Father. When we are obedient in walking these out, and delighting ourselves in the Lord, He indeed will grant the desires of our hearts.

NOW... go walk in it! BE DIFFERENT! BE DISTINCTIVE! But above all, BE YOU (the You God desires you to be)!

Be 'THAT KINDA GIRL' - Check out 'old school' fun... with DC TALK...


Be blessed and be a blessing!!
(This may be the end as I said, but it's just the beginning... MORE FUN TO COME! Don't leave me now... continue with me on your own journey!)

30-Day TRUE WOMAN Make-Over Day 29

WOW... so much catching up to do... but praise the Lord for an eventful week...

Today's topic is - THE BEAUTY OF HOLINESS
Today's verse is Proverbs 31:29 - "Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all."

"The goal of being pure of heart is not to make us look good. That's self-righteousness. The goal is to make God look good." ~Nancy Leigh DeMoss in today's devotional.

How 'beautiful' are you? I am not talking physically, I am talking spiritually. Holiness is something that is developed on the inside. Is holiness what you long for and need? Remember that holiness is what God wants from us.

Are you a 'good girl gone bad' or a 'bad girl gone good' ? This world is full of wild women, who are living by their fleshy desires. We however, as our friend the 'virtuous woman', need to live by our spiritual desires. Our spirit desires should link up with the desires that God has for us as well.

Holiness by definition is:
Wait, let me guess... 'the state or quality of being holy'... LOL!
–noun

1.the quality or state of being holy; sanctity.
2.(initial capital letter) a title of the pope, formerly used also of other high ecclesiastics (usually prec. by His or Your).

Ha! Ha! The quality or state of being holy. What then is 'holy'?
–adjective

1.specially recognized as or declared sacred by religious use or authority; consecrated: holy ground.
2.dedicated or devoted to the service of God, the church, or religion: a holy man.
3.saintly; godly; pious; devout: a holy life.
4.having a spiritually pure quality: a holy love.
5.entitled to worship or veneration as or as if sacred: a holy relic.
6.religious: holy rites.
7.inspiring fear, awe, or grave distress: The director, when angry, is a holy terror.

Are YOU specially recognized or declared sacred? Are YOU dedicated or devoted to service of God, the church or religion? Are YOU saintly, godly, & devout? Are YOU living a life that is spiritually pure? WOW... this is alot to undertake as a 'Christian'. Some people only think God is holy, and that we as humans can never be holy. But as we have said, GOD DESIRES THAT WE BE HOLY, just as He is holy. "But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; 16for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy." 1 Peter 1:15-16 NIV

When we live a life of holiness, we become an heir... and when we become an heir we gain nobility. This leads us to our verse, "Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all." We can DO all kinds of noble and good things in this world, but LIVING a LIFE of HOLINESS will allow you to surpass all others. God is pleased with us when we choose to do His will instead of our own. Religion and Christianity is not about DOING... it's about BEING! Christianity itself is a religion, however being a Christian doesn't make you religious. A Christian walk is based on relationship rather than religion. We walk out a relationship with God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit/Ghost. All three of these are n



HOLINESS by SONIC FLOOD...

30-Day TRUE WOMAN Make-Over Day 28

Today's topic is - SOUND THINKING
Today's verse is Proverbs 31:28 - "Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:"

30-Day TRUE WOMAN Make-Over Day 27

Today's topic is - DELIGHTING IN YOUR CHILDREN

Today's verse is Proverbs 31:27 - "She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness."

30-Day TRUE WOMAN Make-Over Day 26

TODAY is the day... I am wishing my sweetheart, bestest friend, love of my life, 'worship warrior', and man of my dreams a wonderful, blessed and awesome Birthday... I LOVE YOU BABE! Happy Birthday Mark! -- "This is your little birthday song, and it isn't very long..." xoxoxox


Today's topic (coincidentally is...) - LETTING GOD SHAPE YOUR HUSBAND!
(how fitting for his birthday!)
Today's verse is PROVERBS 31:26 - "She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue."

Some start-off quotes from the devotional are:
• The best marriage is nothing more than two sinners continually humbling themselves and knowing how to get to the cross to find the grace of God.



• Your husband’s strengths and weaknesses are exactly what God knew you needed for you to become the woman God wanted you to be.


• It's your job to love your husband; it's God’s job to change him.
 
As a married woman of only 7 years (this August 30th will be 7), I cannot give alot of marital advice. There are NO perfect marriages, same as there are NO perfect people or Christians, however through LOVE and the GRACE and MERCY of God you can have an 'almost-perfect' one! I find that to be true with my marriage. My husband and I have similar characteristics, likes and dislikes. We DO NOT argue or fight as many others do. Now don't get me wrong, we do have the odd 'disagreement', but that's hardly a 'fight'. This is all through the GRACE of God I know. We both 'waited patiently' for the 'RIGHT' one to come along, and I am soooooooooo glad that I did. I am so glad that I didn't GIVE UP, GIVE IN or SETTLE. (see my devotion here on 'Hope vs. Settle') The two of us are different, yes, he is much more introverted, and I am much more extroverted. However, the two of us can pull out a more 'opposite' side when needed. We both love the Lord obviously, and we are spiritually on the same level and journey (which is important), as the man is definitely to be the 'spiritual head' of the home.
 
It is sad to me when I hear other women talking down about, or degrading their husband (or boyfriend/fiance/future spouse or even their 'ex'). Just this past week, I heard women talking, and the one said 'I wish I could kill him'... 'every woman wishes she could kill her husband'. WOW, I was quick to speak up, and she was also quick to respond that we've only been married a few years, come back and see her when we are 25+ years married. Just crazy!!!
 
I am so blessed to know that God gave me this gift, and I have to overlook annoying habits, etc, same as he has to overlook mine. LOL! I believe I have much more annoying things about me, than he has about himself. When I hear other women 'complaining' about their husband or ALL men in general, I am quick to add in NOT ALL MEN/HUSBANDS. It is also sad to me to see a fellow Christian sister/woman 'settle' for 2nd best... being stuck in an 'up-hill battle' that they are trying to make work for their good. Sometimes, yes God will annoint and bless and surprise us all with the outcome... yet sometimes the woman 'tries to change him' herself. We need to remember that we aren't the ones who can 'change' him, (as the quote above states) "It's your job to love your husband; it's God’s job to change him." We also need to seek out and LISTEN to Spiritual advice. But that's another story... As you can tell there are people in my life who are doing just this... I am tired of/saddened/heartbroken when I hear women say that they are 'too old', 'too old and past child-bearing years', 'too much money spent', 'but his kids are so attached to me already...' --- NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE WITH GOD! If you are struggling with your self-worth... remember YOU ARE WORTH IT! You are WORTH the BEST that God has for you... don't settle if you don't have to! Sometimes YES, He can turn around and become the GREATEST Evangelist in your neighbourhood, but sometimes if he is spiritually underneath you, he will either drag you down, or just not be involved at all.
 
My husband and I are at the 'worldly peak of child-bearing years' and we both have GREAT FAITH in God that He will provide us with the family that we desire, and that He has promised the two of us years ago. Now I don't have any vision stories to tell you, with sex, names, etc... like others may have (or you may have), but I do know I HAVE A GOD THAT IS GREATER than any worldly scientific facts. The 'worldly' child-bearing years are NOTHING for GOD! (If you also walk in FAITH, believe with us in prayer! If you are struggling in this situation, please don't hesitate to contact me to chat or pray!)
 
We have to 'ALLOW GOD to SHAPE our HUSBANDS'... as He wants him to become the man He created Him to be. If you are truly in the RIGHT relationship with your husband, YOU are part of that original plan! How cool to know that GOD did indeed create YOU for your MATE!!! If we keep trying to change our man, and make him into who we want him to be, we are stopping the work of the Spirit in his life, and that is a BIG responsibilty and BIG shoes to fill. If this is you, LET GO and LET GOD!
 
I am totally in love with my husband, he is the 'Spiritual Head' of our home, but I am also there to be his HELPMATE and to SUPPORT and REMIND him. If his prayer life/devotional life is slacking, I need to remind him (and I expect him to do the same for me). When we were married that beautiful August day in 2003, we made vows to each other... and they were not just made to sound good for that day, they are to last a lifetime. We based our vows on 1Corinthians 13. This is the 2nd most important COVENANT relationship... the first of course is our COVENANT relationship with God... the 3rd is with our CHURCH. Too many people today, just 'walk away' from covenants, and cannot be trusted at their 'word'. But remember, ONE WORD FROM GOD CAN CHANGE EVERYTHING!!
 
Love you Mark ... to Pluto (& back)! <3
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

30-Day TRUE WOMAN Make-Over Day 25

Well... so funny thing... REVIVE OUR HEARTS never emailed me the link to DAY #25, so I forgot to do it... not blaming them of course as I was out shopping for school stuff after work, and then made it home in time to watch the BIGGEST LOSER FINALE! (YAY.... humph, did everyone watch it yet? I won't ruin it yet...) So I didn't make time either... oops! Anyway, I am doing Day #25 and #26 together... well in separate blog entries, but on the same day.

Today's (well yesterday's) topic is (was) - MAKE YOUR HUSBAND A PRIORITY!
Today's (well yesterday's) verse is (was) Proverbs 31:25 - "She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come."

Somehow, I am a little sleepy, so I will finish this one tomorrow... and also #26, and I guess #27...

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!!

30-Day TRUE WOMAN Make-Over Day 24

Wehoo... today is a HOLIDAY... and what a beautiful and HOT day it was... (still is technically) The first official LONG WEEKEND of the year...

Today's topic is - INTENTIONAL TRAINING
Today's verse is Proverbs 31:24 - "She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the merchants with sashes."

Intentional by definition is;
–adjective

1.done with intention or on purpose; intended: an intentional insult.
2.of or pertaining to intention or purpose.

We have to make it a PURPOSE to train those around us... If we are 'younger', we need to seek out an 'older woman' to mentor us, someone with similar circumstances, etc. If we are 'older' we need to live our lives as an example for the 'younger' generation. We need to search them out as well, and try to train them in the life principles found in God's Word. It sounds so difficult, and it sounds like it takes a lot of time, energy and work. Really, according to Nancy in TODAY'S DEVO, "It’s really just giving friendship, counsel, encouragement, exhortation by your example, by your words, one on one in the context of everyday life."

Getting together with someone, younger or older (or even a threesome where there is one young, one middle & one older) can be beneficial to both/all parties. It has been said that we should have "Paul's", "Timothy's" & "Barnabas'" in our lives... A 'Paul' is one who mentors and trains you. A 'Timothy' is one that you mentor or train, and a 'Barnabas' is one who is your peer, one who is WITH you on the journey.

I know that this is something I see myself getting more involved with, as it is a desire of my heart as well. I love all the 'spiritual moms' in my life, some are intentionally training and being an example, yet others are just living their life as an example to view, and learn from. I love teaching and training the younger generations, but usually is has been in the Preschool-Primary areas. Now, I find myself involved in our 'YOUNG GOD CHASERS' class, which is made up of 'Tweens who are ages 8-12. They are 'hungry' and 'thirsty' for knowledge and wisdom. They are exciting to teach, and train because they are ready to tell their story too. I am teaching them, but I am also learning from them as well. I am also planning to start a 'girls group' with a few other 'older' women... we are also getting our 'older' women involved too... to have a multi-generational ministry and get-togethers/functions/workshops/
conferences and more. I am excited to be a part of our church, because we are a church of equippers... so our 'children' and 'youth' are being brought up to equip others as well.

We should try to have PURPOSE for everything we do as women. It doesn't all have to be spiritual, yet it will bring spiritual blessings as well. As in our verse today, our 'virtuous woman' "makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the merchants with sashes." We already know this woman is amazing... she makes linens and clothing to provide for her family, yet here we see she also makes linen garments with a PURPOSE. She is making them to sell. She herself does not sell the garments, she gives them to the merchants who sell them for her. She is again making a profit, for which she used some as an income to again provide for her family and as verse 16 states, "She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard". Everything this woman does is out of PURPOSE. She is a WOMAN of PURPOSE!

Purpose by definition is;
–noun

1.the reason for which something exists or is done, made, used, etc.
2.an intended or desired result; end; aim; goal.
3.determination; resoluteness.
4.the subject in hand; the point at issue.
5.practical result, effect, or advantage: to act to good purpose.


–verb (used with object)
6.to set as an aim, intention, or goal for oneself.
7.to intend; design.
8.to resolve (to do something): He purposed to change his way of life radically.


Therefore, our 'virtuous woman' knows the reason for which she exists (definition #1). She is desiring to set goals for herself, and she tries to fulfill them to the best of her own ability. (definition #3 & #6) She resolves to be different, to do and be ALL that God has called her to be. (definition #8)


Again, this leads us to being the ME that God has called us to be... the ME that I want to be. My M.E. is my MAXIMUM EFFECTIVENESS. That by definition is;


Maximum:
–adjective

5.that is a maximum; greatest or highest possible or attained: maximum satisfaction; maximum temperature.
6.pertaining to a maximum or maximums.


Effectiveness:
–adjective


1.adequate to accomplish a purpose; producing the intended or expected result: effective teaching methods; effective steps toward peace.
2.actually in operation or in force; functioning: The law becomes effective at midnight.
3.producing a deep or vivid impression; striking: an effective photograph.


Therefore, in my life I want to accomplish the greatest or highest possible things that God has planned for me. I want to ACTIVELY attain the goals that we have set for me. I am adequate to accomplish the purposes that He has for me, with PURPOSE, which will produce the intended or expected result that HE has for me! I really love the 3rd definition of 'Effectiveness' ~ "producing a deep or vivid impression; striking" I want to leave a deep & vivid impression to those who follow behind me. As a creative person as well, this creates a vivid picture for me. The example given is an 'effective photograph'... as a hobby photographer, I have seen several different 'contests/photo games' around the net, where the creator gives a topic/theme for example, and you have to post pictures that you have taken into that category. For example, say "BRIDGES" was the theme, I could post this picture (photo credit: ME)...

For "JOY" I could post this pic from our wedding...

[Photo credit to SUDDEN EXPOSURE (Mark MacBain).]

Both of these pictures exhibit EFFECTIVE imagery showing the desired theme.

Now, using 'Effective' vs. 'Not so effective'... For "PAIN" I could post this pic of me when I had 'facial cellulitis'...(photo credit: Me)

Yet, here is another pic of me with the Facial cellulitis, but I have a smile on my face, so it kind of takes away from the desired effect of "PAIN"... it does still somehow look painful, because it is red and swollen, yet because of my smile, it doesn't 'seem' painful.

God's desired theme for us is to live a life that is pleasing to Him, and completely FOR Him. He doesn't want our 2nd best, nor does He want to be 2nd place! To be an EFFECTIVE witness and example, we need to live life with a PURPOSE! (God's purpose, not our own!)

When we do that, like our 'virtuous woman' friend, God will grant us favour and give us many blessings greater than we can imagine or think! So walk out your life with INTENTION and PURPOSE. (Not just living with 'good intentions'... but actually following through to reach the goal that God has for you in Christ Jesus!) "I'm not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don't get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I've got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I'm off and running, and I'm not turning back." (Philippians 3:13-14 THE MESSAGE)

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

30-Day TRUE WOMAN Make-Over Day 23

Today's topic is - THE ANATOMY OF ADDICTION
Today's verse is Proverbs 31:23 - "Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land."

30-Day TRUE WOMAN Make-Over Day 22

YEEHAW... what a wonderful way to start a day. We had a ladies' breakfast at our church with Evangelist ANITA PEARCE (for more info on her and her ministry click INSPIRATION MINISTRIES) She challenged us and reminded us, that God is the potter and we are the clay. To fully become the ME that He desires me to be, I have to yield to him and allow Him to remake me. Thankfully I can say I am on that road, and on that journey, and the book "The ME I Want to Be" (by John Ortberg), and this 30-Day True Woman Make-over is helping out with that. So THANKS JOHN, NANCY (& others)! (Coincidentally John's wife is also named Nancy, but they are not the same.) Of course I give ALL glory to God, as He is bringing me through these changes, and recreating processes, and I am excited to move forward in my newfound 'ME' (Maximum Effectiveness)!

Today's topic is - HOW TO CONTROL YOUR TONGUE

Today's verse is Proverbs 31:22 - "She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple."

Phew... controlling the tongue... if only we could lose weight and calories from all the work it takes to do this... there would be way more thinner and quieter people around.

We ALONE cannot control our tongues... we need the help of the Father. We can try in our own strength, yet the temptations and fleshly thoughts get the better of us, and we choose to 'put our foot in our mouth' once again.

Too often we find ourselves stuck in the middle of 'loose tongue syndrome'... whether we are doing it ourselves, or someone is sharing the news with us. Anytime slander, or gossip takes the place of things that edify and encourage, we should know there is a problem. Yesterday's devotional (Nancy's here, mine here) dwelled on slander and sound doctrine. So today, as Nancy stated, we are not going to focus on slander itself, but how to be a woman who does not slander.

She quotes seven steps to becoming a woman who does not sin with her tongue;
1. Humble yourself

2. Put off all slander and evil speaking

3. Put on words of kindness, love, forgiveness & grace

4. Bring your thought-life under the control of the Spirit

5. Talk less
6. Think before you speak

7. Refuse to listen to slander or gossip about

These seven steps are all difficult to undertake, yet with the Lord's help (as I said at the beginning) it can and will be accomplished in our lives. Basically the old saying is rather fitting still, "If you can't say anything nice, then don't say anything at all". We need to be women who do not slander. Although I know it's easy to get caught up in juicy gossip or even slanderous gossip...

We need to yield ourselves over to God, so that He can use us and change us into the ones he designed us to be. (Again confirmed in the message this morning with Anita.)

When we exhibit the symptoms of 'loose tongue syndrome' (L.T.S.), we should be able to quickly repent to the Father (first) and then to the others around us (if necessary). But instead, if we continue in LTS, then it is very contagious, and it spreads to others around us. Sometimes we even add on or subtract details to our speech as well. Our speech, clothing and actions require us to show and exemplify modesty so that others around will learn from and walk in the same. Our 'loose tongue' also hurts our family. When we 'gossip' or 'slander' someone, we need to think of how it would be for us, if we heard someone talking like that about us. Our family can get caught in the 'cross-fire', as we are humans who think 'an eye for an eye' and want to think revenging rather than repenting. When we have a mind full of kindness, love, forgiveness & grace (step #3 above), our mouths and tongues will reflect the same (IE. GIGO - garbage in, garbage out). We can rest easily at night knowing that we lived the best that we could without taking another down to advance.

This leads us into today's verse... our 'virtuous woman' "makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple." We learned already that this woman is modest in her dress, speech and actions, yet she is now also showing that she is modest in home design as well. Now, when one thinks of modest sometimes, they don't think positively at first. I have mentioned the word 'prude', yet I will also add 'frumpy or dowdy' and 'plain'. This however is not the actual picture we get from the 'virtuous woman'... her apparel and her home are clothed in that which may be modest, yet is still beautiful and rich in quality. Her bedroom and her home are her 'castle' as the old saying goes for me usually. She takes time to design and implement a quality in her home that is also reflected on her own dress, and therefore also reflects her love for her family and for God. She again is using her own hands to create this comfort for her and her family. The verse says 'she is clothed in fine linen and purple.' Fine linens and purple are used alot in royalty, to show off the richness of the colour and the designs. Purple in colour, signifies royalty, and this woman, and we, are covered with the annointing of the King. He also calls us His royal priesthood. We are daughters of the King... therefore we are REAL PRINCESSES!

We need to take that role in our lives, we are worthy, we are special, loved and treasured. A princess is protected by the King, and is loved by the King more than any other female in the Kingdom, (well except for the Queen). A princess has the prominence in the Kingdom and the cities around the 'castle'. She is known for her role as a Princess (unless she chooses to hide it and go 'undercover' as Jasmine did in Aladdin). No one knew she was the Princess, because she hid under 'frumpy' and 'plain' clothes.

We need to stop dressing in 'rags' and trade those 'rags' for 'robes of righteuosness' and take our rightful place as PRINCESSES in the Kingdom. We are due to inherit alot more than monetary value. (and we don't have to wait until our 'Father' dies... because his son already did that ONCE AND FOR ALL.) A princess does not walk around slandering those in her kingdom, she walks to show respect for her family and for her King. Although the King is her Father, she still has to respect and obey His words just like everyone else. Whatever she does reflects back onto the King. It is the same with us... whatever we do reflects back to our King. If we are seen in the world as gossips and slanderers, yet profess to these same people to be Christians, what example is that leaving? If we are a part of the 'chosen people, royal priesthood and holy nation' spoken of in 1 Peter 2:8-10, then we need to walk in that promise.

"'A stone that causes men to stumble and a rock that makes them fall.'They stumble because they disobey the message—which is also what they were destined for. But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy." (1 Peter 2:8-10 NIV)

Tongues of gossip and slander are that which make others stumble, and they disobey the message of God. Because we are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, we need to walk in the freedom, and declare the praises of God. He brought us out of the miry clay, and the darkness into His wonderful light, and we are now the people of God. We have received an over-abundance of mercy from God, and we need to grant others the same grace and mercy. Just a reminder, GRACE is 'getting something that we don't deserve' and MERCY is 'not getting something that we do deserve'. We deserve death and eternal flames, yet we are receiving life, and life abundantly in Heaven with our God.

We need to walk in the 'LTS' (Loving Tongue Syndrome) instead of 'Loose Tongue Syndrome'. We want it to be CONTAGIOUS enough that others catch it, and watch over what they say too. Just like the contagious 'common cold' or even a simple everyday thing like 'yawning'... once we see someone do it, we catch a hold of it, and do it in our own lives! What a world that would be?

To read other devotionals (on Cre8ted 2 Share) regarding our tongue & our words, click HERE.

BE BLESSED AND BE A BLESSING... in all you think, do and say!

30-Day TRUE WOMAN Make-Over Day 21

What a BEAUTIFUL day... PRAISE THE LORD!


Today's topic is - APPLYING SOUND DOCTRINE
Today's verse is Proverbs 31:21 - "When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in scarlet."

'Doctrine' by definition is (according to Dictionary.com);
–noun

1.a particular principle, position, or policy taught or advocated, as of a religion or government:
2.something that is taught; teachings collectively: religious doctrine.
3.a body or system of teachings relating to a particular subject.

30-Day TRUE WOMAN Make-Over Day 20

WEHOO... 2nd set of double digits are getting accomplished... only 10 days left, I am 2/3 of the way there... and yet still a LIFETIME to go! I'm excited... Are you enjoying my 'journey'? Are you on your own 'journey' too? Leave me a comment to let me know your thoughts... <3 Mitz

DAY#20

Today's topic - RESPONSES FROM LISTENERS
Today's verse is Proverbs 31:20 - "She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy."

Anyway, so today's talk is continuing from yesterday, and the last few thoughts on modesty. She had listeners/readers respond to her with comments and questions regarding her lessons on modesty. One thing that I ended saying yesterday (see devotional here), was that we don't need to be the ones who are ashamed. Sometimes the world makes us feel 'prude' or 'square' for teaching & training our 'girls' to dress modestly and Godly... yet it should be they who are ashamed of themselves for what they are wearing or yet allow their 'girls' to wear.


Sometimes as 'young girls' we feel silly if our Mom or Dad is telling us what to wear, and when our friends are around, we get a little embarrassed or angry. Yet they are doing it again, to PROTECT us. We are also PROTECTING and GUARDING the hearts of the 'younger & older men' that we come in contact with. They need the words to that old Sunday School song... "Oh be careful little eyes what you see..." to play in their minds too, and if we dress inappropriately or immodestly, then we are seen as a hindrance to their walk. NOT ALL GUYS ARE JERKS or ARE OUT TO GET SEX... but we shouldn't give them a chance to even think about it by what we are wearing...


I know that as a youth, when we went to a BIG convention in Texas, at CFNI, for YFN... we had talks with our youth pastor and his wife, and we had to do the "Praise the Lord" and raise our hands/arms, and if anything else went up with them and showed off 'more than necessary', then it was inappropriate to wear. We also had to stand straight, with our arms to the side, and our shorts, dresses, skirts could not be shorter than where our finger tips ended... (I guess it was the middle finger, seeing as it is the longest.) That was a rule on the campus of CFNI... which I believe is a good rule... I use the same rules for the 'girls' in my care. When my husband was a Youth Pastor (and I was a Youth Leader), we used these 2 for a basis for 'clothing' rules. At youth camp now, we like to share these with the girls, as they want to dress 'cute' but when they start worshipping God, and things hang out, or fly up, or are too revealing, then the guys minds start wandering away from the things of God, to the things of 'this world'... and they no longer can focus on God. We as women of God, do not want to be a hindrance in the way of the 'men of God' getting closer to Him, and the desires of His heart.

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God— even as I try to please everybody in every way. For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved. 1 Corinthians 10:31-33 NIV

These verses in 1 Corinthians show us the reason for modesty... it is to bring glory to God. Everything that we do or say should bring glory to God. If we are dressing 'cute' and 'revealing' to bring attention to ourselves, then God is not getting glory, we are! We are CALLED to not cause anyone to stumble... ANYONE! We do not seek our own good, but the good of many that they might be saved. As much as it might be a way to bring more 'unbelievers' into the fold, sexy dress, talk and actions are not the way to BRING THE FATHER GLORY!


We all know that this all doesn't happen at once... it is a SLOW FADE (as the song by Casting Crowns says). There is one line in there that always hits me hard... "Oh be careful little feet where you go, well its the little feet behind you, that are sure to follow..." There are ALWAYS eyes watching you... and our thoughts and choices are easily followed by those around us. As a teacher, and a 'mentor/big sister' to many young girls, I want my feet to always go to Jesus... so the girls that follow, will always find their way to Him! All glory to the Father!


Here's the YOUTUBE version of the song SLOW FADE by Casting Crowns...


To go with today's verse, "She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy." This is an exciting verse where our 'virtuous woman' is being like JESUS. She is following the example set before her, and living it out in her own life, so that others around her may follow her example. She isn't extending her hands to get noticed, or to receive human praise. She is modestly and humbly setting her own priorities and tasks aside to love on another, who is 'poor... and needy'. Here in Canada, you look around, and sometimes see the 'poor' and 'needy' lying on park benches, standing at street corners with signs, and sometimes we get frustrated about helping them. We usually think they are going to use the money for drugs or something else, if we are wanting to share money with them. If we give money to them, will they actually be 'thankful' and respond accordingly, or will they just move on to the next 'sucker' to get more money... It's always a tough spot. A small prayer will help you discern where people's motives lie. Jesus didn't worry about that, he even went against rules of the Pharisees and teachers of the law, and helped, healed, touched, listened to the poor and the needy. How many of these 'needy' people just need a HUG?? Sometimes I think that... who cares how smelly or dirty they are? If they were our own children or family we would still hug them... we are to show we are followers of Christ by our LOVE. Is it LOVE to walk on by the 'lame' man lying on the side of the road with a sign??? Is it LOVE to pass by on the other side of the road? Is it LOVE to just turn away from a co-worker who's husband has lost their job? What was JESUS' example???

Some people from the 80's/90's will remember WWJD bracelets... they are still out there today, yet not as 'powerful', as the world, and we as Christians have even made those to be silly, and have no point. WWJD stands for WHAT WOULD JESUS DO? This is a statement that IS STILL VERY POWERFUL today... especially in the eyes of children. They respect JESUS, they believe in JESUS without many questions! When they do something wrong, it is good to say, "hmm... what do you think Jesus would say about that?" or something like "Would Jesus hit his friends and laugh?" We need to honestly step back and think what Jesus would do, and then try to follow His example to the best of our ability. He was a human... you cannot say, 'but He's God'.... He made Himself a human form, so that He could endure ALL (and more) that we endure as humans. He however was filled with the Holy Spirit, and was in deep intimate communion with His Father. We need to follow THAT example FIRST AND FOREMOST if we want to get anywhere...

Our 'virtuous woman' was said to have eager hands, and strong arms (in previous verses)... she has strength to perform her tasks, and to help out her family. However, this verse also gives the woman a 'gentleness' to her. Although her arms are strong, and her hands are eager & busy... she has the TIME and the GENTLE TOUCH to allow herself to help those who are around her, in her circle of influence (or around her community & world). WOW! What an eye-opener!! I know I personally LOVE hugs... and I think I would give a hug to almost anyone (if they needed one)... I give HUGS all day long... I get paid to give out & receive HUGS! What a blessing!! Unfortunately, a HUG today is not really acceptable as it was back in Jesus' time (or even in our parents era)... today school teachers can get charged, fired (and never again be teachers) for a simple HUG. Thankfully, we don't have that problem in daycare, and the children in our care are receiving the affection and love that they desire. Unfortunately for these same children, when they move up to 'BIG SCHOOL', and get hurt, or are sad, or just want a hug because they miss Mommy and Daddy, they WILL NOT be able to receive these 'needed' HUGS. This makes me sad... because I know that some of these children (like me) have a love language of "PHYSICAL TOUCH". (Click here to read more about the FIVE LOVE LANGUAGES by Gary Chapman) So I know that my arms are soft & gentle for hugs... because I love giving them as much as I do receiving them, because usually when you give, you automatically receive!!

Going back to the 'poor' and 'needy', most people think 'third-world' when you say this... and I can officially say now that I have been across the ocean into Kigali, Rwanda, Africa! It was only 2 weeks, but it was certainly a life-changing 2 weeks... there are so many needy people there, and just to see their faces light up at the sight of a 'muzungu' (white person) is humbling... they have such a simple 'joy'... sometimes you can't tell by the perma-frown on their faces. Their simple lives and simple way of living, is amazing when looked at from the eyes of a 'middle class Canadian white woman'... To touch the lives of those people and their children, was beyond a blessing to me. You just NEED to stretch out your arms, and extend your hands to them... you just WANT to do it too! A 'little' taste of living like JESUS...

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING... anonymously if you can... and reach out to those 'poor' and 'needy'...

30-Day TRUE WOMAN Make-Over Day 19

... Day #19...

Today's topic is -- TOUGH QUESTIONS ON MODESTY

Today's verse is Proverbs 31:19 - "In her hand she holds the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers."

Well, honestly I have never had real problems personally with modesty, because (like the family in the devotional) I was brought up in a home of respect and they taught me regarding this. However, I personally never liked to 'follow the crowd' and wear trendy, tight or revealing clothing anyway. I do get 'offended' sometimes at what some girls wear today... and well boys too... These pants/shorts that hang down below their bums, showing off their tightie-whiteys or boxers to the world is not exciting to me.

Just today I found myself commenting on the 'short shorts' that 2 girls were wearing standing outside our 'local' highschool (the one closest to my home). WOW, so short, and not appealing at all really. I joked 'could you wear them any shorter?' My husband said, 'well they could paint them on'. Obviously we would never want our 'daughter' or her friends to dress in this way. Thankfully we do not have a daughter yet, but we have many 'young girls' who are in our circle of influence. These girls love to dress cutesy, and sometimes 'sexy' in their eyes... unfortunately the world wants that, and allows for that. People who have taught modesty and are living that way in their home are looked at as 'prudes', and it makes me sick. Who wants to see the 'whole package'? Not me! (Whether or not it's a sexy guy or girl doesn't matter...)

But I don't always remember to pray for those girls or guys that I see... I need to do that more. I need to pray that SOMEONE (if not me) will come into their lives and impart the Godly wisdom that they need. For the girls in my 'circle of influence', I need to pray for them more, and to share why it is important to remain humble, modest and pure! I also need to MODEL the acceptable behaviour, speech and dress as well. (along with other role models)

One of the quotes from today's devotional that stuck out to me is this... "So you're responsible to live up to the truth that you know, and then you're also responsible to pray that God will teach their hearts those same truths that you know. If God brings you into relationship with them, then you may have the privilege of being one of the people that helps share truth with them." which basically goes with my above comment. Sometimes I do take time to pray for them, yet sometimes I just am disgusted that parents would let their kids outside the house wearing some of the things they wear... but then I have to remember that some parents aren't always there for their kids, some kids tell their parents how they want to dress, etc. Some parents think it is a cute outfit too... SO I need to pray for them AND their families... and that they will have an open spirit, mind and heart to listen to what is being said. You can still dress 'cute' and not 'loose'!

Our verse today, says... "In her hand she holds the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers." -- Well, I am assuming she likes to sew, as it spoke of wool and flax earlier, and she does alot of things with her hands, but I personally had to look up the word 'distaff'... it has to do with a spinning wheel I am assuming, but really the only spinning wheel and spindle I have heard of is found in the story of 'Rumplestiltskin'. LOL! So according to my friend dictionary.com, 'distaff' means:

–noun

1.a staff with a cleft end for holding wool, flax, etc., from which the thread is drawn in spinning by hand.

2.a similar attachment on a spinning wheel.

3.Archaic.

a.a woman or women collectively.

b.woman's work.

A 'spindle' likewise is:

–noun

1.a rounded rod, usually of wood, tapering toward each end, used in hand-spinning to twist into thread the fibers drawn from the mass on the distaff, and on which the thread is wound as it is spun.

2.the rod on a spinning wheel by which the thread is twisted and on which it is wound.

3.one of the rods of a spinning machine that bear the bobbins on which the spun thread is wound.

4.any rod or pin suggestive of a spindle used in spinning, as one that turns around or on which something turns; an axle, axis, or shaft.

So this woman is pretty 'handy'... she does things with her hands and her arms (as told in verse 13 'eager hands' and verse 17 'arms are strong'). Each day possibly she is at the spinning wheel creating things to clothe her family and possibly to sell. She works day and night, doing this and other household chores. Now how does this coincide with 'questions on modesty'? Modesty by definition (again) is...

–noun,plural-ties.

1.the quality of being modest; freedom from vanity, boastfulness, etc.
2.regard for decency of behavior, speech, dress, etc.
3.simplicity; moderation.

So this woman, who is busy at work, is not spinning out in front of everyone, she is modestly and simply doing this 'chore' because it needs to be done. She is not vainly boasting about the work she does, she just does what needs to be done. She takes the initiative to provide for her family. Because she can spin the wool and flax herself, she is able to take that and create clothing that is appropriate for her family to wear. I don't believe any of that would be low-cut/revealing, high-cut/short or immodest in any way. This woman is also seen as the 'virtuous woman' (not the 'virtual woman'), who is modest in thought, word & deed (& dress). WOW! What a blessing to be able to say that about yourself. This is why I pray that God will bless me, and I ask Him to forgive me in all the sins that I may have committed in 1. Thought 2. Word & 3. Deed... 4. Intentionally & 5. Unintentionally!

See ALL blog devotionals (on Cre8ted 2 Share) with the label MODESTY here... IT IS NOT A BAD THING TO SHOW MODESTY...

May you be blessed and be a blessing!