...but have good reason for being as such :)
God has blessed me with many things to be filling my time, following His direction for my life. It's quite exciting really. For anyone who is interested, here is a bit of what has occupied my time:
College - beginning nursing school to fulfill God's call to medical missions
Family - general things at home, and working on the next lego stop-motion film with my family
Church - helped with a church retreat, and working with Dad to organize a group of young adults up here to spend time fellowshipping, challenging each other, and doing ministry together
So, what to write about...I could write about any of the above, but that's not the most important thing happening in my life. The most important thing would have to be the focus that God has begun to give me. For a long time, I have filled my life with things I wanted to pursue, things I wanted to get, my own pursuits almost entirely. But lately, I have been reading about how God wants us to spend our lives: following Him in EVERYTHING, not just on Sunday, not just for a few hours a week. It's not enough to serve Him when it's convenient. It's not enough to serve Him when I feel like it. He has called me to abandon my life to Him. And I have begun to understand that in a whole new way. I have begun to understand that following His calling and abandoning my own is fulfilling, and because it is His vision, it is successful and He gets all the glory.
I'm not there, I'm not all the way in His will because my flesh fights it again and again, but I am so joyful at the work that He is doing. I am very excited to see how He will continue to work through me in the days to come!!
Ah, and another little thing He's been working on...rather BIG thing? Tearing off another layer of my pride. It hurts, wow it hurts. But I know it's worth it.
And with that, my dear friends, I will have to take my leave...but I will do my best to write again soon :)
I was flipping through my old Bible Study notebook this last week, and found some wonderful topical studies. One that stood out was a study on gratefulness. The very beginning of the study began with a comparison of pride and gratefulness, which seemed a little odd, until I read the definitions:
Gratefulness: communicating to others the precise way in which they have benefited my life, and looking for ways to honor them.
Pride: Believing that I have achieved what God and others have done for me and through me.
1 Corinthians 4:7 "For who regards you as superior? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as if you had not received it?
The key to gratefulness being a realization our how indebted we are to God...how deserving of nothing but eternal judgment...how we can only be grateful for the ways in which God and others benefit us. Redirecting praise is something that we often fail to do, but is key to gratefulness and keeping the pride of self-accomplishment at bay.
Following that initial comparison, was a list of specific recipients of our gratefulness: God, parents, family, your conscience, church elders, civil authorities, employer, true friends. After each recipient was a list of specific ways to give thanks and be grateful for them. Some of the challenging ones really stood out to me though.
~ Give thanks for the hardships in life.
~ When you feel as though you have nothing to be thankful for, give thanks anyway.
~ When others give you praise, redirect it to whom it is due.
~ Be grateful for correction from others.
I find it easy to give thanks when I am blessed with good health, good food, a peaceful family, sufficient finances, extra blessings, etc. But when those things start to dissappear, I find myself turning inward to focus on my "suffering." I'd like to challenge you to join me in taking some extra time to just be grateful. To turn to the One to whom all credit is due. And the next time hardship comes, when you don't feel like giving thanks, join me in searching out God's blessings and learning to have a true heart of gratefulness and thanksgiving!!
Psalm 69:30 "I will praise the name of God with song and magnify Him with Thanksgiving."
Gratefulness: communicating to others the precise way in which they have benefited my life, and looking for ways to honor them.
Pride: Believing that I have achieved what God and others have done for me and through me.
1 Corinthians 4:7 "For who regards you as superior? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as if you had not received it?
The key to gratefulness being a realization our how indebted we are to God...how deserving of nothing but eternal judgment...how we can only be grateful for the ways in which God and others benefit us. Redirecting praise is something that we often fail to do, but is key to gratefulness and keeping the pride of self-accomplishment at bay.
Following that initial comparison, was a list of specific recipients of our gratefulness: God, parents, family, your conscience, church elders, civil authorities, employer, true friends. After each recipient was a list of specific ways to give thanks and be grateful for them. Some of the challenging ones really stood out to me though.
~ Give thanks for the hardships in life.
~ When you feel as though you have nothing to be thankful for, give thanks anyway.
~ When others give you praise, redirect it to whom it is due.
~ Be grateful for correction from others.
I find it easy to give thanks when I am blessed with good health, good food, a peaceful family, sufficient finances, extra blessings, etc. But when those things start to dissappear, I find myself turning inward to focus on my "suffering." I'd like to challenge you to join me in taking some extra time to just be grateful. To turn to the One to whom all credit is due. And the next time hardship comes, when you don't feel like giving thanks, join me in searching out God's blessings and learning to have a true heart of gratefulness and thanksgiving!!
Psalm 69:30 "I will praise the name of God with song and magnify Him with Thanksgiving."
is too much of a blessing, encouragement, role model, mentor, friend, protector, etc. for me to be able to accurately put into words what he means to me. But I would like to list some scripture verses that accurately portray this man of God, whom I am honored to call my Father!!
Deuteronomy 6:5-7
"You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. These words, which I am commanding you today, shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up."
My Dad does love the Lord, with ALL his heart, soul, and might. A clear evidence of that is his passion to teach the word of God, and his diligence in doing so. For many years he has had a heart to teach, and does an excellent job doing so!!! He has the opportunity to teach in his work, his church, and most important to me, a part of his family. As long as I can remember, Daddy has taught the Scripture in our home. In formal Bible studies, through history, at dinner table conversations, while working together outside, even while trudging through deep woods full of mosquitoes on an orienteering course. His love for scripture, as evidenced by his actions, has left a deep impression on my heart about the value of God's Word!!
1 Thessalonians 2:11-12
"Just as you know how we were exhorting and encouraging and imploring each one of you as a father would his own children, so that you would walk in a manner worthy of the God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory."
Another thing that my Daddy does is exhort, encourage and implore me to walk worthy of my King, of my God!! He has never been one to nag or hang it over my head as a guilt trip, but he is ever diligent to teach me the character of God, His attributes, and standards for a Christian walk. He is not afraid to sit me down and share concerns about character flaws in my life. As a good father should, when I have heard a warning or concern but have taken no action, he is humble yet firm enough to come alongside and say "I am going to set some tighter parameters now, and help you conquer this character flaw." He provides the guidance, discipline and encouragement to help mold my character and life into a vessel that will glorify God to a greater degree.
John 12:26
"If anyone serves Me, he must follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also; if anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him."
My Daddy does serves God. As his daughter, living in the same home, I have seen many sides of Daddy's character. The good as well as the bad. But one thing that has never changed is that at the end of every trial, and in the face of every struggle, he goes back to His life's source: God. He turns to Him for answers to questions, for comfort in times of need, for standards to guide his life, and ultimately in humble submission and acceptance of His gift of salvation. He is a walking testimony of a man whose life honors the Lord.
Proverbs 3:11-12
"My son, do not reject the discipline of the Lord, or loathe His reproof, for whom the Lord loves He reproves, even as a father corrects the son in whom he delights."
Proverbs 3:24
"He who withholds his rod hates his son, but he who loves him disciplines him diligently."
My Daddy loves me. He delights in me. And as a responsible and loving Father should, he disciplines me. Over the years the form of discipline has changed, I have outgrown the oak paddle, picking up rocks and scrubbing the bathtub mat. But I have not outgrown a stern look, a looooong lecture, a canceled fun event, voicing his disappointment at my failure to follow and obey, and a gentle hug to show his concern when I am broken and humbled. He has been faithful, yes even vigilant, to see that I have learned Biblical standards for right and wrong. Not only seen, but enforced when necessary. I would lie to say that his discipline has been my favorite part of our relationship, but I am honest to say that I appreciate his doing so. He has instilled truth in me. He has instilled godliness in me. He has loved me. For that, I am ever grateful!
Proverbs 20:7
"A plan in the heart of a man is like deep water, but a man of understanding draws it out. Many a man proclaims his own loyalty, but who can find a trustworthy man? A righteous man walks in his integrity - how blessed are his sons after him."
I love the part about a man of understanding drawing out the plan of a deep heart. I, like my Daddy, think and feel very deeply. In many ways, I am like him. I am, truly, My Father's Daughter. But he is a man of understanding. Beyond just how my little head ticks, he has a wealth of understanding about God, truth, life, feelings, etc. Because he is a man of understanding, he is capable of gently and patiently drawing the plans, hopes, dreams, and emotions out of my deep heart. He helps me see things about myself that I otherwise never would, and understand how God is working in my life in ways to which I have been blind. As a father, and as a friend, he is loyal to me, and trustworthy. He walks a life of integrity, and I AM blessed to walk after him!
1 Corinthians 11:3
"But I want you to understand that Christ is the head of every man, and the man is the head of a women, and God is the head of Christ."
There are a couple things that Daddy lives out from this verse. Christ is indeed the head of my Daddy. And He willingly admits to and lives the fact. Not only this, but he is the head of a woman: my Mom. He has accepted and now faithfully carries the responsibility of being a husband and father. Before the Lord, he will be accountable for all of us! (I'm glad I'm not a man!) But he has taken it, and is faithful to do as he understands is the Lord's will to lead, teach, nurture, and love us. He is the head of one woman, only one woman. The woman he has loved, and has always been faithful to. What an example of a godly man!!
A few other things that I just wanted to mention...he has laid down a a worldly prominent, financially successful career to follow the Lord's path for his life and family...he has invested COUNTLESS hours in my life to show support of my many and varied interests and talents...he has gone far outside his comfort zone to accompany my siblings and I on varied grand adventures to ensure we were safe...he has been willing to be a broken tool to serve, lift up, encourage, and hold accountable other people in his life, then to see God take his efforts and multiply them to a spouse, a family, now adopted family members, a jail ministry, a city, and now an entire state...he has spent many more countless hours up at late hours of the night, and early hours of the morning to listen as I poured out every crisis in life...he has taken the effort to send me e-mails, letters and phone calls just to say he thinking of me, and loves me...he has guarded my life and purity jealously, before I was old enough to understand the value of his actions...I could fill a book about my Daddy.
His life is casting a shadow, long and stark, that has touched the lives of many. I am honored to walk behind him in the shade and protection he gives, learning to shape my shadow to look like his.
Happy Father's Day to my Daddy, a Man of God!!
Deuteronomy 6:5-7
"You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. These words, which I am commanding you today, shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up."
My Dad does love the Lord, with ALL his heart, soul, and might. A clear evidence of that is his passion to teach the word of God, and his diligence in doing so. For many years he has had a heart to teach, and does an excellent job doing so!!! He has the opportunity to teach in his work, his church, and most important to me, a part of his family. As long as I can remember, Daddy has taught the Scripture in our home. In formal Bible studies, through history, at dinner table conversations, while working together outside, even while trudging through deep woods full of mosquitoes on an orienteering course. His love for scripture, as evidenced by his actions, has left a deep impression on my heart about the value of God's Word!!
1 Thessalonians 2:11-12
"Just as you know how we were exhorting and encouraging and imploring each one of you as a father would his own children, so that you would walk in a manner worthy of the God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory."
Another thing that my Daddy does is exhort, encourage and implore me to walk worthy of my King, of my God!! He has never been one to nag or hang it over my head as a guilt trip, but he is ever diligent to teach me the character of God, His attributes, and standards for a Christian walk. He is not afraid to sit me down and share concerns about character flaws in my life. As a good father should, when I have heard a warning or concern but have taken no action, he is humble yet firm enough to come alongside and say "I am going to set some tighter parameters now, and help you conquer this character flaw." He provides the guidance, discipline and encouragement to help mold my character and life into a vessel that will glorify God to a greater degree.
John 12:26
"If anyone serves Me, he must follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also; if anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him."
My Daddy does serves God. As his daughter, living in the same home, I have seen many sides of Daddy's character. The good as well as the bad. But one thing that has never changed is that at the end of every trial, and in the face of every struggle, he goes back to His life's source: God. He turns to Him for answers to questions, for comfort in times of need, for standards to guide his life, and ultimately in humble submission and acceptance of His gift of salvation. He is a walking testimony of a man whose life honors the Lord.
Proverbs 3:11-12
"My son, do not reject the discipline of the Lord, or loathe His reproof, for whom the Lord loves He reproves, even as a father corrects the son in whom he delights."
Proverbs 3:24
"He who withholds his rod hates his son, but he who loves him disciplines him diligently."
My Daddy loves me. He delights in me. And as a responsible and loving Father should, he disciplines me. Over the years the form of discipline has changed, I have outgrown the oak paddle, picking up rocks and scrubbing the bathtub mat. But I have not outgrown a stern look, a looooong lecture, a canceled fun event, voicing his disappointment at my failure to follow and obey, and a gentle hug to show his concern when I am broken and humbled. He has been faithful, yes even vigilant, to see that I have learned Biblical standards for right and wrong. Not only seen, but enforced when necessary. I would lie to say that his discipline has been my favorite part of our relationship, but I am honest to say that I appreciate his doing so. He has instilled truth in me. He has instilled godliness in me. He has loved me. For that, I am ever grateful!
Proverbs 20:7
"A plan in the heart of a man is like deep water, but a man of understanding draws it out. Many a man proclaims his own loyalty, but who can find a trustworthy man? A righteous man walks in his integrity - how blessed are his sons after him."
I love the part about a man of understanding drawing out the plan of a deep heart. I, like my Daddy, think and feel very deeply. In many ways, I am like him. I am, truly, My Father's Daughter. But he is a man of understanding. Beyond just how my little head ticks, he has a wealth of understanding about God, truth, life, feelings, etc. Because he is a man of understanding, he is capable of gently and patiently drawing the plans, hopes, dreams, and emotions out of my deep heart. He helps me see things about myself that I otherwise never would, and understand how God is working in my life in ways to which I have been blind. As a father, and as a friend, he is loyal to me, and trustworthy. He walks a life of integrity, and I AM blessed to walk after him!
1 Corinthians 11:3
"But I want you to understand that Christ is the head of every man, and the man is the head of a women, and God is the head of Christ."
There are a couple things that Daddy lives out from this verse. Christ is indeed the head of my Daddy. And He willingly admits to and lives the fact. Not only this, but he is the head of a woman: my Mom. He has accepted and now faithfully carries the responsibility of being a husband and father. Before the Lord, he will be accountable for all of us! (I'm glad I'm not a man!) But he has taken it, and is faithful to do as he understands is the Lord's will to lead, teach, nurture, and love us. He is the head of one woman, only one woman. The woman he has loved, and has always been faithful to. What an example of a godly man!!
A few other things that I just wanted to mention...he has laid down a a worldly prominent, financially successful career to follow the Lord's path for his life and family...he has invested COUNTLESS hours in my life to show support of my many and varied interests and talents...he has gone far outside his comfort zone to accompany my siblings and I on varied grand adventures to ensure we were safe...he has been willing to be a broken tool to serve, lift up, encourage, and hold accountable other people in his life, then to see God take his efforts and multiply them to a spouse, a family, now adopted family members, a jail ministry, a city, and now an entire state...he has spent many more countless hours up at late hours of the night, and early hours of the morning to listen as I poured out every crisis in life...he has taken the effort to send me e-mails, letters and phone calls just to say he thinking of me, and loves me...he has guarded my life and purity jealously, before I was old enough to understand the value of his actions...I could fill a book about my Daddy.
His life is casting a shadow, long and stark, that has touched the lives of many. I am honored to walk behind him in the shade and protection he gives, learning to shape my shadow to look like his.
Happy Father's Day to my Daddy, a Man of God!!
It amazes me how quickly time seems to pass. I remember the long past days of childhood (adults, you can laugh if you want to...it was only half my life ago :D) The days that dragged on forever...in which my biggest concern was to wake up and do my school and chores without getting a spanking...and the life's biggest choice involved determining how I would spend those many empty hours in my afternoon. But some things happen with time, in particular, people grow up. My siblings grow much to fast! Just this past weekend we graduated my next younger sister from High School, my next younger brother had his Eagle Scout Court of Honor, and my second younger brother had his 13 year right of passage. They are not little children any more, and I am honored to say they are growing into some of the most delightful young adults you will ever meet!!
My next younger sister is a delightful young lady! I have had the honor of being her second home school teacher for the past two years, and it has been a joy and an honor. She is an easy student, and a joy to work with. Unlike some of her siblings, she has had to work very hard to learn well and I am SO proud to say that she graduated high school with a high A average. She applied herself to her studies, and did excellent work. What a tribute to her character! Her studies were much broader than a traditional education entails, and her mind has been sharped by careful application to her school. She is bright and talented in so many ways. My sister is a beautiful young lady. Not only of face, but of heart. The beauty of her heart radiates from within, and can be seen by everyone around her. It gives her face a delicate glow that no one can ignore. Her gentleness and kindness wins hearts of adults and children alike, and continues to multiply itself as she lets God work in her life. I can hardly believe how time has flown, she is no longer a little girl. Having passed a tremendous milestone in her life there is the rest of her yet ahead...and I am anxious to see how the Lord will guide her steps as she goes forward.
Ah...my next younger brother...who is now taller than I. Despite being several years younger, he is several inches taller. The fascinating thing about his height, is that it is not just physical. For a 15 year old young man, his character and maturity far surpass his age. And in some ways, I feel as though he surpasses me as well. His work ethic, diligence, perseverance, integrity and leadership are tremendous. At 15, it has been many months since he concluded his work to gain the rank of Eagle Scout. The paperwork was slow in being processed, but finally came back. At 15, he is certainly not the oldest scout in his troop, but is currently in his second term as Senior Patrol Leader, the highest youth leadership position in the troop. He has been in leadership positions since 13, and is one the most well liked and definitely most admired young men in the troop. As his sister, I am blessed to have him as my brother. Despite the gap in years, he and I are very good friends. It is so encouraging to be able to try and copy him in the character that he has that surpasses me. God will do great things with this young man, my brother!!
My second younger brother...growing like a weed. And learning like one too. He is sharp and learns incredibly fast, well above his age and grade level. As he is just beginning his walk into adulthood, there is much that lies before him to be learned, conquered, treasured. As his older sister, I am honored to be able to watch him as he goes forward. It will be exciting to see how the Lord will continue to shape and mold him in the years to come.
There will be pictures here
My next younger sister is a delightful young lady! I have had the honor of being her second home school teacher for the past two years, and it has been a joy and an honor. She is an easy student, and a joy to work with. Unlike some of her siblings, she has had to work very hard to learn well and I am SO proud to say that she graduated high school with a high A average. She applied herself to her studies, and did excellent work. What a tribute to her character! Her studies were much broader than a traditional education entails, and her mind has been sharped by careful application to her school. She is bright and talented in so many ways. My sister is a beautiful young lady. Not only of face, but of heart. The beauty of her heart radiates from within, and can be seen by everyone around her. It gives her face a delicate glow that no one can ignore. Her gentleness and kindness wins hearts of adults and children alike, and continues to multiply itself as she lets God work in her life. I can hardly believe how time has flown, she is no longer a little girl. Having passed a tremendous milestone in her life there is the rest of her yet ahead...and I am anxious to see how the Lord will guide her steps as she goes forward.
Ah...my next younger brother...who is now taller than I. Despite being several years younger, he is several inches taller. The fascinating thing about his height, is that it is not just physical. For a 15 year old young man, his character and maturity far surpass his age. And in some ways, I feel as though he surpasses me as well. His work ethic, diligence, perseverance, integrity and leadership are tremendous. At 15, it has been many months since he concluded his work to gain the rank of Eagle Scout. The paperwork was slow in being processed, but finally came back. At 15, he is certainly not the oldest scout in his troop, but is currently in his second term as Senior Patrol Leader, the highest youth leadership position in the troop. He has been in leadership positions since 13, and is one the most well liked and definitely most admired young men in the troop. As his sister, I am blessed to have him as my brother. Despite the gap in years, he and I are very good friends. It is so encouraging to be able to try and copy him in the character that he has that surpasses me. God will do great things with this young man, my brother!!
My second younger brother...growing like a weed. And learning like one too. He is sharp and learns incredibly fast, well above his age and grade level. As he is just beginning his walk into adulthood, there is much that lies before him to be learned, conquered, treasured. As his older sister, I am honored to be able to watch him as he goes forward. It will be exciting to see how the Lord will continue to shape and mold him in the years to come.
There will be pictures here
Wednesday evening, we received an urgent request by HSLDA to participate in an emergency rally in
What happened...the senate introduced and approved bill 291, a major public education bill. Three days ago, it reached the house floor and was voted down. Session ends today, so in an attempt to pass ONE major education bill this session, the bill went back to committee to be re-written (in a hurry). They revised it, but in the course of the revision there was new wording that was vague, and potentially dangerous to home-schoolers.
In a clause that dealt with encouraging students to stay in school, the compulsory attendance law was going to be changed "This act also changes the requirement for compulsory attendance age for school districts, except for the
Once they caught this language, several representatives got together to WRITE an amendment that would clarify the vague wording. What this did was DEFINE what a credit is for home schoolers, instead of leaving this power open to being in the hands of the state. In the state of
Yesterday ended up being a good day for Missouri homeschoolers, because not only did we get some good legislation passed, we also sent a strong reminder to the Missouri State Government that we are serious about our freedoms, we will mobilize, and we can do all of this with almost no warning.
As one of the homeschool lobbyists said, "You've made my job easier for the next ten years."
Sometimes, I really wonder at why diligence is important...and then quickly remember that scripture calls us to diligence. I have to admit, at the end of a project, it is gratifying to look at the final result and be satisfied that all the hours and effort were worth it.
My younger brother Gregory and I have been working on a lego short for the past few weeks, as a response to Gideon Production Group's call for animators. This short was submitted as the first stage of our audition. Here is the short, for those who may be interested in watching it.
I know it seems small, at 3:08, but the hours and labor that went into were large...and I have to admit that by the end, I was ready to be done putting clouds into kitty/tree pictures. But looking back, I see that the diligence required to fit this around the rest of life was well worth it!
My younger brother Gregory and I have been working on a lego short for the past few weeks, as a response to Gideon Production Group's call for animators. This short was submitted as the first stage of our audition. Here is the short, for those who may be interested in watching it.
I know it seems small, at 3:08, but the hours and labor that went into were large...and I have to admit that by the end, I was ready to be done putting clouds into kitty/tree pictures. But looking back, I see that the diligence required to fit this around the rest of life was well worth it!
"When my life purpose is truly to glorify God, then He can bring blessings, trials, people, etc. all through my life and I can continue on just as before. When my purpose is to glorify Him, and I trust in His work, I can be content that where He has me is the place most glorifying to Him."
That quote would be an accurate summation of some of my recent thoughts. I says thoughts plural, due to the fact that they have been many and varied, yet I have come to the conclusion that they all fit together to form a single, complete, and sobering thought. Namely, the one given above.
Perhaps you are curious as to what these thoughts must have been? They include some of the following: “I am discontent with where I am in life.” “Life's purpose is to glorify God.” “God is God. I ought to stop trying to be.” “When our focus is on glorifying God, we can be content with any challenge God brings our way.” I think you will now have to agree with me that they are varied. Let me try to explain how these things work together.
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I find a disturbing but nonetheless frequent trend of discontentment with my present circumstances. It is not rising primarily from a great dislike for where I am, or what I am doing, but rather an attitude that looks too far and too eagerly forward in life. I find my focus turned to myself or fulfillment of myself through serving others. By default, when the focus is turned to myself it is not where it rightly belongs: on God. This direction of focus is not only wrong but it denies my purpose in life: to glorify God. This purpose requires an increase of trust as I die to myself, and let God be God! The result of this change of purpose is truly freeing, and worth every bit of the sacrifice.
Paul exhorts us in 1 Timothy 6:6-8 “But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment. For we have brought nothing into the world, so we cannot take anything out of it either. If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content.” My selfish desires can leave me feeling as if I am lacking, as if there is yet more to be desired. But Paul encourages me to be content with the food and clothes. I tend to think that the bare necessities ought to include far more. I read in Philippians 4:11-13, “Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” Paul takes no easy way around the issue here, and clearly states that we are called to be content in whatever circumstance we find ourselves. With whatever provisions we have. I find it fascinating that directly following his exhortation, Paul reaffirms his own weakness and struggle in this very area by stating that it is Christ who gives him the strength! As weak as I am, I can easily understand from where his necessity for reliance comes.
Contrary to Paul's exhortation I find myself often thinking that there must be something waiting for me in the future, something that has yet to happen, something that I am missing. At times I have even found myself coveting what another who has gone before me, has gained. It seems as if my present circumstances are not good enough for what I desire. Galatians 6:8 carries a stern warning, “For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.” A second warning comes from Solomon, a man who lived life to the fullest in terms of material possession and physical desire. He fulfilled his desire to the utmost, and yet at the end had only this to say, in Proverbs 14:12 “There is a way which seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.” He is right. There is no fulfillment in following my own selfish desire, only despair and death. It is easy for me to see how my focus turns to myself. I have found that I sometimes even justify my actions by masking it with actions that serve others. Behind the mask of service, is a root of pride seeking fulfillment by my deeds. All of this focus, however, is misplaced. It rightly belongs on God. Galatians 5:16 tells us “But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. For the flesh sets our desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please.” Herein lies the challenge: when the focus rests on myself, it is in opposition to God. When it is on God, it is against me and I do not do the things I please.
The need to turn the focus back to God rests on an understanding of life's purpose: to glorify God. When He created me it was not out of a need. There is no way that He depends on me or that He relies on me. I am here to glorify Him. I see it in Isaiah 43:7 “Everyone who is called by My name, and whom I have created for my glory, whom I have formed, even whom I have made.” And again in 1 Peter 4:11 “Whoever speaks, is to do so as one who is speaking the utterances of God; whoever serves is to do so as one who is serving by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God my be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever, Amen.” These verses do not leave room for my selfish ambitions, nor do they allow me to take the glory. Understanding my purpose gives me a direction to channel my efforts, and a reason to continue on when things go wrong and bring me no recognition, or even failure. My efforts, even when difficult or requiring great sacrifice, become worthwhile for the knowledge that they are not for me. I read in Philippians 3:7 “But whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted as loss for the sake of Christ. More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ.”
This purpose in life is a blessing, but presents a whole new challenge: how to bring about death to self. In a pursuit to glorify God, I cannot also glorify myself. The pride within me that seeks recognition, gratitude, success, material goods, must be buried. I must learn to let go of that which drives me, that which give me self-satisfaction, that which brings me self-confidence. To let go of all this leaves me in a vulnerable position and according to the world, weak. I find that I must always have something in which to place my trust, and when I have removed myself from that position, God is ready, able and willing to fill it. Philippians 4:19-20 “And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in in Christ Jesus. Now to our God and Father be the glory forever and ever. Amen.” The ironic thing about this is that any trust I place in myself is worthless...trust cannot be based on wavering inconsistent sin. Trust can really, truly, only be placed in God. He alone is never changing and worthy of my trust. Galatians 2:20 tells about this change of trust, “I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.” The most challenging part of this transition is to completely let go. I find it easy to trust God for some things, and rely on myself for the rest. But this cannot be. I have to let God be God, and do what He alone can do. I love Isaiah 64:4 “For from says of old they have not heard or perceived by ear, nor has eye seen a God besides You, who acts in behalf of the one who waits for Him.” Truly, this is so.
When I allow God to humble my pride, when I surrender my needs, when I turn my focus upward and allow myself to stay in the resulting vulnerable hard place, there comes a drastic heart change that is called trust. When I turn the focus away from myself, it is free to then be turned towards God. When I seek to glorify God, I will not glorify myself, and He will be glorified. The vulnerability that comes with trust is the greatest advantage to me. It allows me to be anywhere that God chooses to lead me even though it be outside my comfort zone, thoughts and desires, and my plan. It allows me to be WHEREVER God leads me. When I know that God is leading, I can go forward without fear or apprehension because nowhere can I be beyond His care and guidance. When my focus is on God and I have left behind my will, I can then be stretched, challenged, even hurt, but still continue on in the power that is so much greater than my own. Philippians 4:6-7 is beautifully reassuring, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Perhaps in all of that, you can see how the many thoughts do indeed tie together. I have such a difficult time getting my thoughts onto paper, so I understand if you cannot follow what I have said. I hope and pray that it is of some encouragement to you, that perhaps you have been challenged or lifted up.
That quote would be an accurate summation of some of my recent thoughts. I says thoughts plural, due to the fact that they have been many and varied, yet I have come to the conclusion that they all fit together to form a single, complete, and sobering thought. Namely, the one given above.
Perhaps you are curious as to what these thoughts must have been? They include some of the following: “I am discontent with where I am in life.” “Life's purpose is to glorify God.” “God is God. I ought to stop trying to be.” “When our focus is on glorifying God, we can be content with any challenge God brings our way.” I think you will now have to agree with me that they are varied. Let me try to explain how these things work together.
-------------------------------
I find a disturbing but nonetheless frequent trend of discontentment with my present circumstances. It is not rising primarily from a great dislike for where I am, or what I am doing, but rather an attitude that looks too far and too eagerly forward in life. I find my focus turned to myself or fulfillment of myself through serving others. By default, when the focus is turned to myself it is not where it rightly belongs: on God. This direction of focus is not only wrong but it denies my purpose in life: to glorify God. This purpose requires an increase of trust as I die to myself, and let God be God! The result of this change of purpose is truly freeing, and worth every bit of the sacrifice.
Paul exhorts us in 1 Timothy 6:6-8 “But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment. For we have brought nothing into the world, so we cannot take anything out of it either. If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content.” My selfish desires can leave me feeling as if I am lacking, as if there is yet more to be desired. But Paul encourages me to be content with the food and clothes. I tend to think that the bare necessities ought to include far more. I read in Philippians 4:11-13, “Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” Paul takes no easy way around the issue here, and clearly states that we are called to be content in whatever circumstance we find ourselves. With whatever provisions we have. I find it fascinating that directly following his exhortation, Paul reaffirms his own weakness and struggle in this very area by stating that it is Christ who gives him the strength! As weak as I am, I can easily understand from where his necessity for reliance comes.
Contrary to Paul's exhortation I find myself often thinking that there must be something waiting for me in the future, something that has yet to happen, something that I am missing. At times I have even found myself coveting what another who has gone before me, has gained. It seems as if my present circumstances are not good enough for what I desire. Galatians 6:8 carries a stern warning, “For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.” A second warning comes from Solomon, a man who lived life to the fullest in terms of material possession and physical desire. He fulfilled his desire to the utmost, and yet at the end had only this to say, in Proverbs 14:12 “There is a way which seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.” He is right. There is no fulfillment in following my own selfish desire, only despair and death. It is easy for me to see how my focus turns to myself. I have found that I sometimes even justify my actions by masking it with actions that serve others. Behind the mask of service, is a root of pride seeking fulfillment by my deeds. All of this focus, however, is misplaced. It rightly belongs on God. Galatians 5:16 tells us “But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. For the flesh sets our desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please.” Herein lies the challenge: when the focus rests on myself, it is in opposition to God. When it is on God, it is against me and I do not do the things I please.
The need to turn the focus back to God rests on an understanding of life's purpose: to glorify God. When He created me it was not out of a need. There is no way that He depends on me or that He relies on me. I am here to glorify Him. I see it in Isaiah 43:7 “Everyone who is called by My name, and whom I have created for my glory, whom I have formed, even whom I have made.” And again in 1 Peter 4:11 “Whoever speaks, is to do so as one who is speaking the utterances of God; whoever serves is to do so as one who is serving by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God my be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever, Amen.” These verses do not leave room for my selfish ambitions, nor do they allow me to take the glory. Understanding my purpose gives me a direction to channel my efforts, and a reason to continue on when things go wrong and bring me no recognition, or even failure. My efforts, even when difficult or requiring great sacrifice, become worthwhile for the knowledge that they are not for me. I read in Philippians 3:7 “But whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted as loss for the sake of Christ. More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ.”
This purpose in life is a blessing, but presents a whole new challenge: how to bring about death to self. In a pursuit to glorify God, I cannot also glorify myself. The pride within me that seeks recognition, gratitude, success, material goods, must be buried. I must learn to let go of that which drives me, that which give me self-satisfaction, that which brings me self-confidence. To let go of all this leaves me in a vulnerable position and according to the world, weak. I find that I must always have something in which to place my trust, and when I have removed myself from that position, God is ready, able and willing to fill it. Philippians 4:19-20 “And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in in Christ Jesus. Now to our God and Father be the glory forever and ever. Amen.” The ironic thing about this is that any trust I place in myself is worthless...trust cannot be based on wavering inconsistent sin. Trust can really, truly, only be placed in God. He alone is never changing and worthy of my trust. Galatians 2:20 tells about this change of trust, “I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.” The most challenging part of this transition is to completely let go. I find it easy to trust God for some things, and rely on myself for the rest. But this cannot be. I have to let God be God, and do what He alone can do. I love Isaiah 64:4 “For from says of old they have not heard or perceived by ear, nor has eye seen a God besides You, who acts in behalf of the one who waits for Him.” Truly, this is so.
When I allow God to humble my pride, when I surrender my needs, when I turn my focus upward and allow myself to stay in the resulting vulnerable hard place, there comes a drastic heart change that is called trust. When I turn the focus away from myself, it is free to then be turned towards God. When I seek to glorify God, I will not glorify myself, and He will be glorified. The vulnerability that comes with trust is the greatest advantage to me. It allows me to be anywhere that God chooses to lead me even though it be outside my comfort zone, thoughts and desires, and my plan. It allows me to be WHEREVER God leads me. When I know that God is leading, I can go forward without fear or apprehension because nowhere can I be beyond His care and guidance. When my focus is on God and I have left behind my will, I can then be stretched, challenged, even hurt, but still continue on in the power that is so much greater than my own. Philippians 4:6-7 is beautifully reassuring, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Perhaps in all of that, you can see how the many thoughts do indeed tie together. I have such a difficult time getting my thoughts onto paper, so I understand if you cannot follow what I have said. I hope and pray that it is of some encouragement to you, that perhaps you have been challenged or lifted up.
That the Lord of all the earth,
Would care to know my name,
Would care to feel my hurt.
Who am I?
That the bright and morning star,
Would choose to light the way,
For my ever wandering heart.
Bridge:
Not because of who I am,
But because of what you've done.
Not because of what I've done,
But because of who you are.
Chorus:
I am a flower quickly fading,
Here today and gone tomorrow,
A wave tossed in the ocean,
A vapor in the wind.
Still you hear me when I'm calling,
Lord, you catch me when I'm falling,
And you've told me who I am.
I am yours.
I am yours.
Who am I?
That the eyes that see my sin
Would look on me with love
And watch me rise again.
Who am I?
That the voice that calmed the sea,
Would call out through the rain,
And calm the storm in me.
Not because of who I am,
But because of what you've done.
Not because of what I've done,
But because of who you are.
I am a flower quickly fading,
Here today and gone tomorrow,
A wave tossed in the ocean,
A vapor in the wind.
Still you hear me when I'm calling,
Lord, you catch me when I'm falling,
And you've told me who I am.
I am yours.
Not because of who I am,
But because of what you've done.
Not because of what I've done,
But because of who you are.
I am a flower quickly fading,
Here today and gone tomorrow,
A wave tossed in the ocean,
A vapor in the wind.
Still you hear me when I'm calling,
Lord, you catch me when I'm falling,
And you've told me who I am.
I am yours.
I am yours.
I am yours.
Whom shall I fear?
Whom shall I fear?
Cause I am yours.
I am yours.
I am sitting here trying to write, but I cannot see for the tears streaming down my face...yes,moved to tears...by the truth of this song. Because I am fading, tossed about, a vapor, falling and failing. Yes He hears, and He holds me. But I am nothing. And He? EVERYTHING! To think that He overlooks my failure and sin and loves me simply overwhelms me...to fall in love with the One who loves you is like nothing else in all time! It is glorious!!!
Would care to know my name,
Would care to feel my hurt.
Who am I?
That the bright and morning star,
Would choose to light the way,
For my ever wandering heart.
Bridge:
Not because of who I am,
But because of what you've done.
Not because of what I've done,
But because of who you are.
Chorus:
I am a flower quickly fading,
Here today and gone tomorrow,
A wave tossed in the ocean,
A vapor in the wind.
Still you hear me when I'm calling,
Lord, you catch me when I'm falling,
And you've told me who I am.
I am yours.
I am yours.
Who am I?
That the eyes that see my sin
Would look on me with love
And watch me rise again.
Who am I?
That the voice that calmed the sea,
Would call out through the rain,
And calm the storm in me.
Not because of who I am,
But because of what you've done.
Not because of what I've done,
But because of who you are.
I am a flower quickly fading,
Here today and gone tomorrow,
A wave tossed in the ocean,
A vapor in the wind.
Still you hear me when I'm calling,
Lord, you catch me when I'm falling,
And you've told me who I am.
I am yours.
Not because of who I am,
But because of what you've done.
Not because of what I've done,
But because of who you are.
I am a flower quickly fading,
Here today and gone tomorrow,
A wave tossed in the ocean,
A vapor in the wind.
Still you hear me when I'm calling,
Lord, you catch me when I'm falling,
And you've told me who I am.
I am yours.
I am yours.
I am yours.
Whom shall I fear?
Whom shall I fear?
Cause I am yours.
I am yours.
I am sitting here trying to write, but I cannot see for the tears streaming down my face...yes,moved to tears...by the truth of this song. Because I am fading, tossed about, a vapor, falling and failing. Yes He hears, and He holds me. But I am nothing. And He? EVERYTHING! To think that He overlooks my failure and sin and loves me simply overwhelms me...to fall in love with the One who loves you is like nothing else in all time! It is glorious!!!
I am working on sewing several costume pieces for an upcoming stage version of Sense and Sensibility, in which my brother is to play Colonel Brandon. I have to admit, I was quite intimidated when I received the frock/morning coat pattern, as the garment construction from the Regency era is quite different from that of today. The seams do not lie across the top of the shoulder and straight down the side, but rather diagonally across and behind the shoulder, and front panels curve around the side, to attach in a curve to the narrow back panels. This ensures a well fitted garment. (Which, in my opinion, is a brilliant idea!) I had one frock coat and one morning coat to sew. The frock coat is a cutaway style, double-breasted. The Morning coat is a a curved front style, single breasted with small lapels. Both required alterations on the original pattern. This proved to be a challenge, since altering the garment was completely different due to construction technique. But I have been successful, and the coats are coming together (despite skimpy directions that leave out half the steps...yay for google and fellow costumers online construction journals!) I must admit, the three people I am sewing for will look quite smashing! But the guys are going to roast alive! I will post pictures of everything when I am done...I didn't realize what I'd gotten myself into when I agreed to sew three dresses, two pairs of breeches, four waistcoats, two shirts, two frock coats, hand bags, cravats, and 135 buttonholes...It's fun though!!
This excerpt is from a 1903 issue of "Athletics and Outdoor Sports for Women"...and while it may bore some of you, I thought attention to detail, practicality, and modesty was quite fascinating.
Equestrianism
"A great deal has been said and written in regard to the correct dress for the saddle, yet how many women know and practice its two most important laws?-first, to dress plainly and comfortable; second, to look well.
The habit must be well made, well fitted, of correct style, and of best material. Safety skirts should always be worn. There are several different patents for these. One is practically an apron, which on the saddle gives the effect of a skirt; there is no back to it, and the legs are perfectly free and in direct contact with the saddle. This is a very good and safe pattern for hunting and country use, but is most awkward when the rider is dismounted. Another is more like the ordinary habit skirt but with an open seam back of the legs and up around the pommel; this is provided with patent fasteners, permitting it to be closed when the wearer is off the horse, and readily opened predatory to mounting.
The regulation habit is well fitted, single-breasted, with five or six buttons, and made long enough to touch the horse in back. Last spring a single-breasted, long, and somewhat loose coast with a fly front became very popular. Either of these is a sensible style to order…
Covert coats should be made big, and are very smart for outdoor riding. Norfolk jackets look well on slight women and children, and are very comfortable for country use. The heavier cloth you select for the habit, the better it will fit and wear and the longer keep its shape. Whipcords and dark materials are preferable…Khaki, duck, or crash habits are desirable for summer.
A black derby is the correct hat for winter, a plain straw sailor for summer, and sombreros are picturesque for some people in the far, far country. Of late a three-cornered hat has been popular, but it is not generally becoming. The hat should be large enough to set well down on the head and be kept in place by a broad elastic. Hat pins should never be worn; they look bad and are dangerous in case of accident. The hair should be worn plainly, either braided and tied at the neck with a ribbon or coiled securely low on the head.
Riding-boots, for comfort's sake a size larger than everyday shoes, should be of calfskin or patent leather…With summer habits tan boots should be worn or tan leggings over laced tan shoes. The boots, though, are always more comfortable than the leggings. Select your boots from a somewhat mannish last; the very pointed toe and high, narrow heels are no longer in vogue. Gloves should always be heavy, hand-sewed, with one or two clasps, and always a size or two larger than those ordinarily worn.
The underclothes for riding should be as carefully considered as the outer garments. The corset or corset waist should be loose enough for absolute comfort and freedom. Balbriggan drawers, such as boys wear, and socks are best. Stockings should not be used as they often wrinkle up and chafe, and elastics sometimes interfere with the circulation. Over the drawers may be worn with equestrian tights, reaching to the ankle, or breeches. The riding-breeches are made on the style of a man's riding-breeches and of similar material, but care should be taken that the buttons on the cuffs are on the inside of the right leg and on the outside of the left leg. After the tights or breeches are put on, draw on the boots.
Beneath the habit coast should be worn some kind of shirt-waist, and for neckwear I recommend an Ascot stock fastened with an appropriate pin. The linen collar and necktie are also very smart…All jewelry should be avoided…
The under-dressing for riding in the cross saddle should be similar to that for the side saddle. Very baggy riding-breeches and polo-legged boots should be worn. The stiff boot is better than the legging, as it does not show the shape of the leg. The coat should be single-breasted, rather loose fitting, and with quite full and very long skirts, coming below the knee when the wearer is mounted. The coast should be split up the back to allow the skirts to fall each side of the horse, and provided with two tabs which, when the rider is in the saddle, should be secured to a button on each knee. With the skirts of the coast fastened at the knee the whole thigh and upper leg are concealed, and nothing but a smart boot is visible."
Equestrianism
"A great deal has been said and written in regard to the correct dress for the saddle, yet how many women know and practice its two most important laws?-first, to dress plainly and comfortable; second, to look well.
The habit must be well made, well fitted, of correct style, and of best material. Safety skirts should always be worn. There are several different patents for these. One is practically an apron, which on the saddle gives the effect of a skirt; there is no back to it, and the legs are perfectly free and in direct contact with the saddle. This is a very good and safe pattern for hunting and country use, but is most awkward when the rider is dismounted. Another is more like the ordinary habit skirt but with an open seam back of the legs and up around the pommel; this is provided with patent fasteners, permitting it to be closed when the wearer is off the horse, and readily opened predatory to mounting.
The regulation habit is well fitted, single-breasted, with five or six buttons, and made long enough to touch the horse in back. Last spring a single-breasted, long, and somewhat loose coast with a fly front became very popular. Either of these is a sensible style to order…
Covert coats should be made big, and are very smart for outdoor riding. Norfolk jackets look well on slight women and children, and are very comfortable for country use. The heavier cloth you select for the habit, the better it will fit and wear and the longer keep its shape. Whipcords and dark materials are preferable…Khaki, duck, or crash habits are desirable for summer.
A black derby is the correct hat for winter, a plain straw sailor for summer, and sombreros are picturesque for some people in the far, far country. Of late a three-cornered hat has been popular, but it is not generally becoming. The hat should be large enough to set well down on the head and be kept in place by a broad elastic. Hat pins should never be worn; they look bad and are dangerous in case of accident. The hair should be worn plainly, either braided and tied at the neck with a ribbon or coiled securely low on the head.
Riding-boots, for comfort's sake a size larger than everyday shoes, should be of calfskin or patent leather…With summer habits tan boots should be worn or tan leggings over laced tan shoes. The boots, though, are always more comfortable than the leggings. Select your boots from a somewhat mannish last; the very pointed toe and high, narrow heels are no longer in vogue. Gloves should always be heavy, hand-sewed, with one or two clasps, and always a size or two larger than those ordinarily worn.
The underclothes for riding should be as carefully considered as the outer garments. The corset or corset waist should be loose enough for absolute comfort and freedom. Balbriggan drawers, such as boys wear, and socks are best. Stockings should not be used as they often wrinkle up and chafe, and elastics sometimes interfere with the circulation. Over the drawers may be worn with equestrian tights, reaching to the ankle, or breeches. The riding-breeches are made on the style of a man's riding-breeches and of similar material, but care should be taken that the buttons on the cuffs are on the inside of the right leg and on the outside of the left leg. After the tights or breeches are put on, draw on the boots.
Beneath the habit coast should be worn some kind of shirt-waist, and for neckwear I recommend an Ascot stock fastened with an appropriate pin. The linen collar and necktie are also very smart…All jewelry should be avoided…
The under-dressing for riding in the cross saddle should be similar to that for the side saddle. Very baggy riding-breeches and polo-legged boots should be worn. The stiff boot is better than the legging, as it does not show the shape of the leg. The coat should be single-breasted, rather loose fitting, and with quite full and very long skirts, coming below the knee when the wearer is mounted. The coast should be split up the back to allow the skirts to fall each side of the horse, and provided with two tabs which, when the rider is in the saddle, should be secured to a button on each knee. With the skirts of the coast fastened at the knee the whole thigh and upper leg are concealed, and nothing but a smart boot is visible."
Yes, this is silly. And, no I didn't have anything better to do with my time...I was laying out and cutting Gregory's waistcoats while Heather and I discussed this...maybe I need something more engaging to do with my brain!!
"One day we discovered a land inside the world of insanity; this land is inhabited by the Muchlys. The Muchlys are divided into two classes. Pretty Muchlys and ugly Muchlys.
Some interesting facts discovered about the Muchlys are:
Their favorite vegetable is okies.
When they are irritated, the say ‘Oh Vista!’ Sometimes, this will be proceeded by "Wurgle!" and on rare occassion, will grow into the phrase "Vista-wurgle-ish!"
‘kk’ and ‘prolly’ are their two most common words in speech, and ‘yup’ is their single affirmative word.
One comical habit of the Muchlys is putting signs on their doors such as ‘here’, ‘away’, or ‘brb’ (be right back). The funny thing is that even when they put ‘away’ and ‘brb’ signs on their doors, you can almost always knock and find them still at home and happy to talk with you.
The only foreign word that the Muchlys know is ja. Due to the fact that ja is the only foreign with which they are familiar it takes on multiple spellings such as ja, jah or ya.
Another peculiar habit of the Muchlys is that after they declare that they are going to bed it is anywhere from thirty minutes to two hours before they actually head that direction.
‘Ornot’ is the term the Muchlys use when they have said something, but disagree and agree with it at the same time.
Another interesting thing about the Muchlys is that they stick their tongues out at people all the time. This action is used as a gag or joke with no negative connotations whatsoever.
Whenever they find something funny they almost always laugh aloud.
When they find something disagreeable or not to their liking they say ‘Hahah’ or ‘oh…..’ in the driest manner you have ever heard.
It is not uncommon to see the Muchlys all of a sudden roll around on the floor and laugh so hard that they start crying. The curious thing about these incidents is that they are in such a state for no more than two seconds and then they return to their former composed conversation.
Another fascinating talent of the Muchlys is the ability to carry on multiple, coherent, and deep conversations at the same.
But the most distinctive factor of the Muchlys’ culture is their famous word… ISH. Ish might mean anything from ‘sort of’ to ‘that’s right’ to ‘maybe’ to ‘I’m not sure, but I’ll say it anyway’. Though no one remembers the exact date, ish was declared a world in the land of Muchlys when they decided that they were tired of it being simply a suffix."
So there you have it. If you didn't get it, that's okay...
"One day we discovered a land inside the world of insanity; this land is inhabited by the Muchlys. The Muchlys are divided into two classes. Pretty Muchlys and ugly Muchlys.
Some interesting facts discovered about the Muchlys are:
Their favorite vegetable is okies.
When they are irritated, the say ‘Oh Vista!’ Sometimes, this will be proceeded by "Wurgle!" and on rare occassion, will grow into the phrase "Vista-wurgle-ish!"
‘kk’ and ‘prolly’ are their two most common words in speech, and ‘yup’ is their single affirmative word.
One comical habit of the Muchlys is putting signs on their doors such as ‘here’, ‘away’, or ‘brb’ (be right back). The funny thing is that even when they put ‘away’ and ‘brb’ signs on their doors, you can almost always knock and find them still at home and happy to talk with you.
The only foreign word that the Muchlys know is ja. Due to the fact that ja is the only foreign with which they are familiar it takes on multiple spellings such as ja, jah or ya.
Another peculiar habit of the Muchlys is that after they declare that they are going to bed it is anywhere from thirty minutes to two hours before they actually head that direction.
‘Ornot’ is the term the Muchlys use when they have said something, but disagree and agree with it at the same time.
Another interesting thing about the Muchlys is that they stick their tongues out at people all the time. This action is used as a gag or joke with no negative connotations whatsoever.
Whenever they find something funny they almost always laugh aloud.
When they find something disagreeable or not to their liking they say ‘Hahah’ or ‘oh…..’ in the driest manner you have ever heard.
It is not uncommon to see the Muchlys all of a sudden roll around on the floor and laugh so hard that they start crying. The curious thing about these incidents is that they are in such a state for no more than two seconds and then they return to their former composed conversation.
Another fascinating talent of the Muchlys is the ability to carry on multiple, coherent, and deep conversations at the same.
But the most distinctive factor of the Muchlys’ culture is their famous word… ISH. Ish might mean anything from ‘sort of’ to ‘that’s right’ to ‘maybe’ to ‘I’m not sure, but I’ll say it anyway’. Though no one remembers the exact date, ish was declared a world in the land of Muchlys when they decided that they were tired of it being simply a suffix."
So there you have it. If you didn't get it, that's okay...
WHO - am I? Am I who I say I am? Am I even who I think I am? A friend challenged me once, saying that integrity is being the same on the inside as on the outside. It bothers me that I lack integrity. If I am to be the same in my heart and my life I sure don't want people seeing some of what's inside me, which means I need a heart change.
WHAT - do I believe? Not because somebody told me so, not because I think it's a good idea, not because it makes logical sense, but what do I really hold dear in my heart as TRUTH? What do I know to be truth from God's word, from His evidence in all of life and creation?
WHEN - do I move on? Or do I at all? To be content in all circumstances, WOW! What a goal. I don't want to rush through this stage of my life. I don't want to miss what God is showing me and teaching me now.
WHERE - is God guiding my life? How will I know? There are goals that I have, selfish goals for my own gain. I don't want to pursue them because they are centered around self. But how do I know what God's goal is for my life? How hard it is to die to my own wants and sacrifice to let HIM do His work! But in all honesty, there is nothing more satisfying than knowing that my life glorifies Him!
WHY - do I do the things I do? In light of eternity, what does it even matter? Why, when I know that there are things in my life that matter only to me and even sometimes hurt others do I continue on? It is my prayer that God remove this from me, remove this desire from me, and give me a heart fully bound to Him!
HOW - do I use my life to greater glorify God? Where can I sacrifice, and give, and serve to HIS glory? Not for my own, but for Him. My purpose in life is to glorify God, but I miss the mark SOOO often. How can I change so that my life IS spent bringing glory to my God and King?
Psalm 139
O LORD, You have searched me and known me. You know when I sit down and when I rise up; You understand my thought from afar. You scrutinize my path and my lying down, And are intimately acquainted with all my ways. Even before there is a word on my tongue, Behold, O LORD, You know it all. You have enclosed me behind and before, And laid Your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; It is too high, I cannot attain to it. Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence? If I ascend to heaven, You are there; If I make my bed in Sheol, behold, You are there. If I take the wings of the dawn, If I dwell in the remotest part of the sea, Even there Your hand will lead me, And Your right hand will lay hold of me. If I say, "Surely the darkness will overwhelm me, And the light around me will be night," Even the darkness is not dark to You, And the night is as bright as the day Darkness and light are alike to You. For You formed my inward parts; You wove me in my mother's womb. I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Wonderful are Your works, And my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from You, When I was made in secret, And skillfully wrought in the depths of the earth; Your eyes have seen my unformed substance; And in Your book were all written The days that were ordained for me, When as yet there was not one of them. How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How vast is the sum of them! If I should count them, they would outnumber the sand. When I awake, I am still with You.
O that You would slay the wicked, O God; Depart from me, therefore, men of bloodshed. For they speak against You wickedly, And Your enemies take Your name in vain. Do I not hate those who hate You, O LORD? And do I not loathe those who rise up against You? I hate them with the utmost hatred; They have become my enemies. 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.
WHAT - do I believe? Not because somebody told me so, not because I think it's a good idea, not because it makes logical sense, but what do I really hold dear in my heart as TRUTH? What do I know to be truth from God's word, from His evidence in all of life and creation?
WHEN - do I move on? Or do I at all? To be content in all circumstances, WOW! What a goal. I don't want to rush through this stage of my life. I don't want to miss what God is showing me and teaching me now.
WHERE - is God guiding my life? How will I know? There are goals that I have, selfish goals for my own gain. I don't want to pursue them because they are centered around self. But how do I know what God's goal is for my life? How hard it is to die to my own wants and sacrifice to let HIM do His work! But in all honesty, there is nothing more satisfying than knowing that my life glorifies Him!
WHY - do I do the things I do? In light of eternity, what does it even matter? Why, when I know that there are things in my life that matter only to me and even sometimes hurt others do I continue on? It is my prayer that God remove this from me, remove this desire from me, and give me a heart fully bound to Him!
HOW - do I use my life to greater glorify God? Where can I sacrifice, and give, and serve to HIS glory? Not for my own, but for Him. My purpose in life is to glorify God, but I miss the mark SOOO often. How can I change so that my life IS spent bringing glory to my God and King?
Psalm 139
O LORD, You have searched me and known me. You know when I sit down and when I rise up; You understand my thought from afar. You scrutinize my path and my lying down, And are intimately acquainted with all my ways. Even before there is a word on my tongue, Behold, O LORD, You know it all. You have enclosed me behind and before, And laid Your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; It is too high, I cannot attain to it. Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence? If I ascend to heaven, You are there; If I make my bed in Sheol, behold, You are there. If I take the wings of the dawn, If I dwell in the remotest part of the sea, Even there Your hand will lead me, And Your right hand will lay hold of me. If I say, "Surely the darkness will overwhelm me, And the light around me will be night," Even the darkness is not dark to You, And the night is as bright as the day Darkness and light are alike to You. For You formed my inward parts; You wove me in my mother's womb. I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Wonderful are Your works, And my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from You, When I was made in secret, And skillfully wrought in the depths of the earth; Your eyes have seen my unformed substance; And in Your book were all written The days that were ordained for me, When as yet there was not one of them. How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How vast is the sum of them! If I should count them, they would outnumber the sand. When I awake, I am still with You.
O that You would slay the wicked, O God; Depart from me, therefore, men of bloodshed. For they speak against You wickedly, And Your enemies take Your name in vain. Do I not hate those who hate You, O LORD? And do I not loathe those who rise up against You? I hate them with the utmost hatred; They have become my enemies. 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.
To Him be glory both now and forever.
—2 Peter 3:18
Heaven will be full of the ceaseless praises of Jesus. Eternity! thine unnumbered years shall speed their everlasting course, but forever and for ever, "to Him be glory." Is He not a "Priest for ever after the order of Melchisedek"? "To Him be glory." Is He not king for ever?--King of kings and Lord of lords, the everlasting Father? "To Him be glory for ever." Never shall His praises cease. That which was bought with blood deserves to last while immortality endures. The glory of the cross must never be eclipsed; the lustre of the grave and of the resurrection must never be dimmed. O Jesus! thou shalt be praised for ever. Long as immortal spirits live--long as the Father's throne endures--for ever, for ever, unto Thee shall be glory. Believer, you are anticipating the time when you shall join the saints above in ascribing all glory to Jesus; but are you glorifying Him now? The apostle's words are, "To Him be glory both now and for ever." Will you not this day make it your prayer? "Lord, help me to glorify Thee; I am poor, help me to glorify Thee by contentment; I am sick, help me to give Thee honour by patience; I have talents, help me to extol Thee by spending them for Thee; I have time, Lord, help me to redeem it, that I may serve thee; I have a heart to feel, Lord, let that heart feel no love but Thine, and glow with no flame but affection for Thee; I have a head to think, Lord, help me to think of Thee and for Thee; Thou hast put me in this world for something, Lord, show me what that is, and help me to work out my life-purpose: I cannot do much, but as the widow put in her two mites, which were all her living, so, Lord, I cast my time and eternity too into Thy treasury; I am all Thine; take me, and enable me to glorify Thee now, in all that I say, in all that I do, and with all that I have."
—2 Peter 3:18
Heaven will be full of the ceaseless praises of Jesus. Eternity! thine unnumbered years shall speed their everlasting course, but forever and for ever, "to Him be glory." Is He not a "Priest for ever after the order of Melchisedek"? "To Him be glory." Is He not king for ever?--King of kings and Lord of lords, the everlasting Father? "To Him be glory for ever." Never shall His praises cease. That which was bought with blood deserves to last while immortality endures. The glory of the cross must never be eclipsed; the lustre of the grave and of the resurrection must never be dimmed. O Jesus! thou shalt be praised for ever. Long as immortal spirits live--long as the Father's throne endures--for ever, for ever, unto Thee shall be glory. Believer, you are anticipating the time when you shall join the saints above in ascribing all glory to Jesus; but are you glorifying Him now? The apostle's words are, "To Him be glory both now and for ever." Will you not this day make it your prayer? "Lord, help me to glorify Thee; I am poor, help me to glorify Thee by contentment; I am sick, help me to give Thee honour by patience; I have talents, help me to extol Thee by spending them for Thee; I have time, Lord, help me to redeem it, that I may serve thee; I have a heart to feel, Lord, let that heart feel no love but Thine, and glow with no flame but affection for Thee; I have a head to think, Lord, help me to think of Thee and for Thee; Thou hast put me in this world for something, Lord, show me what that is, and help me to work out my life-purpose: I cannot do much, but as the widow put in her two mites, which were all her living, so, Lord, I cast my time and eternity too into Thy treasury; I am all Thine; take me, and enable me to glorify Thee now, in all that I say, in all that I do, and with all that I have."
I had a question come up in a femininity Bible study that I am doing..."Name a few ideas that feminists and society promote as 'right' for women." So instead of using head knowledge, I went to several feminists websites, and use their own words. This, is what Biblical femininity is at war against!!!
“The domination of women by men is justified as being divinely ordained. "God" supposedly granted males the right to control every aspect of womens' lives so they could dominate and exploit them for personal gain.”
“In order for a woman to live her life as an autonomous human being, she must not only defy mortal men, but their gods as well.”
"Biblical myths give men divine permission to dominate both women and animals.”
“The simple fact is that every woman must be willing to be identified as a lesbian to be fully feminist .”
“Overthrowing capitalism is too small for us. We must overthrow the whole... patriarch!”
"Let's forget about the mythical Jesus and look for encouragement, solace and inspiration from real women... Two thousand years of patriarchal rule under the shadow of the cross ought to be enough to turn women toward the feminist 'salvation' of this world."
"Therefore I love Your commandments above gold, yes, above fine gold. Therefore esteem all thy precepts concerning ALL things to be right; and I hate every false way." Psalm 119:127-128
“The domination of women by men is justified as being divinely ordained. "God" supposedly granted males the right to control every aspect of womens' lives so they could dominate and exploit them for personal gain.”
“In order for a woman to live her life as an autonomous human being, she must not only defy mortal men, but their gods as well.”
"Biblical myths give men divine permission to dominate both women and animals.”
“The simple fact is that every woman must be willing to be identified as a lesbian to be fully feminist .”
“Overthrowing capitalism is too small for us. We must overthrow the whole... patriarch!”
"Let's forget about the mythical Jesus and look for encouragement, solace and inspiration from real women... Two thousand years of patriarchal rule under the shadow of the cross ought to be enough to turn women toward the feminist 'salvation' of this world."
"Therefore I love Your commandments above gold, yes, above fine gold. Therefore esteem all thy precepts concerning ALL things to be right; and I hate every false way." Psalm 119:127-128
Well, not really...but when it's been raining for so long that there are rivers in the flat yard, I have to find things to do inside. So I decided to sort my pennies. I'm a genius, no?! I wanted to see how many I had from between 1934 and 2008. So I did. I sorted my pennies. And then my quarters. I found one that has no D or P mark on it...forged? I'm not sure where it was minted. And then my nickels. And then my dimes. I had a huge jar of change, so it took awhile. I had everything spread out on my mirror (which isn't mounted on the wall, so I put it on the floor :P) and shuffled it around...but it ended up looking so cool that I decided to introduce...tada...the CAMERA!!! And take some pictures of the very cool pennies. So I did. Can you tell I need to go something more productive with my time?! So I took some pictures, and put up my three favorites.
So I got tagged...I'm supposed to put up the fourth picture from my fourth folder...so here it is!
This is Lilly, a TB/draft cross mare who I have in dressage training. She is about 17h, lightly fleabitten gray. She came to us as a broodmare of 13 years, very little under saddle experience, and the about the rudest manners of any horse. Needless to say, she is being reformed, and becoming one my favorite horses to work. The light draw-reins were soon retired after I changed to yet another, softer bit. And since she has gotten more submissive she now carries the bit, so no more flash! That is me riding, but the picture is by my little sister and obviously of the horse, so there ya go!
This is Lilly, a TB/draft cross mare who I have in dressage training. She is about 17h, lightly fleabitten gray. She came to us as a broodmare of 13 years, very little under saddle experience, and the about the rudest manners of any horse. Needless to say, she is being reformed, and becoming one my favorite horses to work. The light draw-reins were soon retired after I changed to yet another, softer bit. And since she has gotten more submissive she now carries the bit, so no more flash! That is me riding, but the picture is by my little sister and obviously of the horse, so there ya go!
A friend directed me to a piece of literature which is brilliantly written! Everyone should read this. BUT, before you do, take the thinking cap (that I know you NEVER take off) turn it around straight, and go read...The Children's Story
Oh yes, and explaining why heads need trap doors...I overheard my two youngest siblings last night in the kitchen while they did dishes...
Sib 7-"I wish something."
Sib 8-"What do you wish?"
Sib 7-"I won't tell you."
Sib 8-"Why not?"
Sib 7-"Oh, cause it's something that so smart, Sib 5 and I thought it up."
Sib 8-"Oh really? Well, what is it?!"
Sib 7-"Hm. Should I tell you?"
Sib 8-"Yes, you should. I wanna know!"
Sib 7-"Okay. See we invested this thing, that we wish could be real. And it's a really cool thing."
Sib 8-"Well, what is it?"
Sib 7-"A trap door. We should have trap doors in our heads. Then, we could make tiny pencils, and rolls of paper, and keep them there. And if we needed to write something down, we could just open the trap door and pull them out and write the something down and then put it all back. That is what we invented and wish it was real. It's a genius idea!"
Sib 8-"Oh. You didn't invent it. I already invented it in my head too, so we're not gonna quarrel about it."
And that was that. It was the end of the discussion! Mom and I were planning the schedule in the living room, and just busted up laughing. It was very funny!
Oh yes, and explaining why heads need trap doors...I overheard my two youngest siblings last night in the kitchen while they did dishes...
Sib 7-"I wish something."
Sib 8-"What do you wish?"
Sib 7-"I won't tell you."
Sib 8-"Why not?"
Sib 7-"Oh, cause it's something that so smart, Sib 5 and I thought it up."
Sib 8-"Oh really? Well, what is it?!"
Sib 7-"Hm. Should I tell you?"
Sib 8-"Yes, you should. I wanna know!"
Sib 7-"Okay. See we invested this thing, that we wish could be real. And it's a really cool thing."
Sib 8-"Well, what is it?"
Sib 7-"A trap door. We should have trap doors in our heads. Then, we could make tiny pencils, and rolls of paper, and keep them there. And if we needed to write something down, we could just open the trap door and pull them out and write the something down and then put it all back. That is what we invented and wish it was real. It's a genius idea!"
Sib 8-"Oh. You didn't invent it. I already invented it in my head too, so we're not gonna quarrel about it."
And that was that. It was the end of the discussion! Mom and I were planning the schedule in the living room, and just busted up laughing. It was very funny!
For those of you who are truly committed blog readers, this is long...but worth every word!!!
KINDNESS
Some scriptures having to do with the issue of kindness.
Ephesians 4:29-32 “Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear. Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you. ”
Colossians 4:6 “Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person.”
Proverbs 19:22 “What is desirable in a man is his kindness, and it is better to be a poor man than a liar.”
Proverbs 31:26 “She opens her mouth in wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.”
Ephesians 4:15 “But speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even Christ,”
Psalm 141:3 “Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips.”
James 3:5-12 “So also the tongue is a small part of the body, and yet it boasts of great things See how great a forest is set aflame by such a small fire! And the tongue is a fire, the very world of iniquity; the tongue is set among our members as that which defiles the entire body, and sets on fire the course of our life, and is set on fire by hell. For every species of beasts and birds, of reptiles and creatures of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by the human race. But no one can tame the tongue; it is a restless evil and full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the likeness of God; from the same mouth come both blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be this way. Does a fountain send out from the same opening both fresh and bitter water? Can a fig tree, my brethren, produce olives, or a vine produce figs? Nor can salt water produce fresh.”
Proverbs 1:4 “A soothing tongue is a tree of life, but perversion in it crushes the spirit.”
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Due to it's close association with kind words, we did a study on WHOLESOME.
(Does not appear in the NASB, so no Greek...)
Wholesome – 1. Tending to promote health; favoring health; salubrious; as wholesome air or diet; a wholesome climate. 2. Sound; contributing to the health of the mind; favorable to morals, religion or prosperity; as wholesome advice; wholesome doctrines; wholesome truths.
__Salubrious - Favorable to health; healthful; promoting health.
__Salutary – 1. Wholesome; healthful; promoting health. Diet and exercise are salutary to men of sedentary habits. 2. Promotive of public safety; contributing to some beneficial purpose. The strict discipline of youth has a salutary effect on society.
__Virtue – Moral goodness; the practice of moral duties and the abstaining from vice, or a conformity of life and conversation to the moral law.
____Vice – Any moral unfitness of conduct, either from defect of duty, or from the transgression or known principles or rectitude.
______Rectitude – In morality, righteousness of principle or practice; uprightness of mind; exact conformity to truth or the rules prescribed for moral conduct. Rectitude of mind is the disposition to act in conformity to any known standard of right, truth or justice; rectitude of conduct is the actual conformity to such a standard.
________Disposition – Temper or natural constitution of the mind; the temper or frame of mind.
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and WHOLESOMENESS
(Does not appear in the NASB, so no Greek...)
Wholesomeness - The quality of contributing to health; salubrious; as the wholesomeness of air or diet.
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and UNWHOLESOME
Greek
σαπρός saprose (sä-pro's)
rotten, putrefied; corrupted by one and no longer fit for use, worn out; of poor quality, bad, worthless.
Unwholesome - 1. Not wholesome; unfavorable to health; insalubrious; as unwholesome air or food. 2. Pernicious; as unwholesome advice. Taking away from the health of the mind.
__Insalubrious – Unfavorable to health; unhealthful; promoting health.
__Pernicious - 1. Destructive; having the quality of killing, destroying or injuring; very injurious or mischievous. Food, drink or air may be pernicious to life or health. 2. Destructive; tending to injure or destroy.
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and looked quickly at EDIFICATION
Edification – the advancement of excellence; virtuousness; proficiency toward wisdom and healthy learning; literally creating a framework to improve morally and intellectually.
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and now KINDNESS
Hebrew:
חסד checed (kheh'·sed)
mercy, kindness, lovingkindness, goodness, kindly, merciful, favour, good, goodliness, pity, reproach, wicked thing
Greek:
φιλαδελφία philadelphia (fē-lä-del-fē'-ä)
Love of brothers or sisters, brotherly love; in the NT the love which Christians cherish for each other as brethren.
φιλανθρωπία philanthrōpia (fē-län-thrō-pē'-ä)
love of mankind, benevolence
χρηστότης chrēstotēs (khrā-sto'-tās)
Moral goodness, integrity; benignity, kindness.
Kindness - 1. Good will; benevolence; that temper or disposition which delights in contributing to the happiness of others, which is exercised cheerfully in gratifying their wishes, supplying their wants or alleviating their distresses; benignity of nature. Kindness ever accompanies love. 2. Act of good will; beneficence; any act of benevolence which promotes the happiness or welfare of others. Charity, hospitality, attentions to the wants of others, &c., are deemed acts of kindness, or kindnesses.
__Benevolence - 1. The disposition to do good; good will; kindness; charitableness; the love of mankind, accompanied with a desire to promote their happiness. 2. An act of kindness; good done.
____Disposition – Temper or natural constitution of the mind; the temper or frame of mind.
__Cheerful - 1. Lively; animated; having good spirits; moderately joyful. 2. Expressive of good spirits or joy; lively; animated.
__Benign - 1. Kind; of a kind disposition; gracious; favorable.
__Beneficence - Doing good; performing acts of kindness and charity. It differs from benign, as the act from the disposition; beneficence being benignity or kindness exerted in action.
__Action - In ethics, the external signs or expression of the sentiments of a moral agent; conduct; behavior; demeanor; that is, motion or movement, with respect to a rule or propriety.
__Charity - 1. In a general sense, love, benevolence, good will; that disposition of heart which inclines men to think favorably of their fellow men to think favorably of their fellow men, and to do them good.
__Hospitality - The act or practice of receiving and entertaining strangers or guests without reward, or with kind and generous liberality.
____Liberality - A particular act of generosity; a donation; a gratuity.
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and KIND
Greek:
φύσις physis (fü'-sēs)
Nature, natural, kind, mankind, nature; the sum of innate properties and powers by which one person differs from others, distinctive native peculiarities, natural characteristics: the natural strength, ferocity, and intractability of beasts.
χρηστεύομαι chrēsteuomai (khrā-styü'-o-mī)
To show one's self mild, to be kind, use kindness.
χρηστός chrēstos (khrā-sto's)
Fit, fit for use, useful; virtuous, good; manageable; mild, pleasant (as opp. to harsh, hard sharp, bitter); of things: more pleasant, of people: more kind, benevolent.
Kind - 1. Disposed to do good to others, and to make them happy by granting their requests, supplying their wants or assisting them in distress; having tenderness or goodness of nature; benevolent; benignant. 2. Proceeding from tenderness or goodness of heart; benevolent; as a kind act; a kind return of favors.
__Illustrious - 1. Conspicuous; distinguished by the reputation of greatness; renowned; eminent; as an illustrious general or magistrate; an illustrious prince. 2. Conspicuous; renowned; conferring honor; as illustrious actions. 3. Glorious; as an illustrious display of the divine perfections. 4. A title of honor.
__Disposed - 2. To regulate; to adjust; to set in right order. 4. To set, place or turn to a particular end or consequence. 6. To set the mind in a particular frame; to incline. Avarice disposes men to fraud and oppression.
__Dispose - 1. Disposition; cast of behavior. 2. Disposition; cast of mind; inclination. 3. Natural fitness or tendency. 4. Inclination; propensity; the temper or frame of mind, as directed to particular objects.
__Distress - Affliction; calamity; misery.
__Tenderness - The state of being tender or easily broken. (pride ?) 2. Kind attention; anxiety for the good of another, or to save him from pain. 3. Softness of expression; pathos.
____Broken - Contrition; as brokenness of heart.
______Contrition - 1. The act of grinding or rubbing to powder. 2. Penitence; deep sorrow for sin; grief of heart for having offended an infinitely holy and benevolent God.
__Goodness - 1. The moral qualities which constitute christian excellence; moral virtue; religion. 2. Kindness; benevolence; benignity of heart; but more generally, acts of kindness; charity; humanity exercised. 3. Kindness; benevolence of nature; mercy. 4. Kindness; favor shown; acts of benevolence, compassion or mercy.
__Nature - 1. The established or regular course of things. 2. The essence, essential qualities or attributes of a thing, which constitute it what it is.
__Benevolence - 1. The disposition to do good; good will; kindness; charitableness; the love,of mankind, accompanied with a desire to promote their happiness. 2. An act of kindness; good done.
__Favor - A kind act or office; kindness done or granted; benevolence shown by word or deed; any act of grace or good will, as distinguished from acts of justice.
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The definitions I came up with based on my studies:
Kind - state of character in which one earnestly desires to do good to others, that results in actions of kindness.
Kindness – actions of goodness and tenderness for the good of another.
Unwholesomeness – That which is not only not good for one, but destructive to moral, spiritual and physical states.
Wholesome – Moral uprightness that contributes to the good health of the mind and development of character. (to build up the mind in knowledge faith and holiness)
*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^**^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*
A fascinating discovery: based on all the study we did on kind vs. kindness, we came to a most interesting conclusion. The word KIND refers to a state of being, a state of existance if you will, in which your CHARACTER possesses the traits that are enacted as kindness. The word KINDNESS refers not to a state of character, but rather a form of action. I always equated the two words as being the same. Shows what study will do: prove how little I really know! I love to learn!!!
*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^**^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*
Another interesting note...my least favorite part of all...in the study of the word kind, the definition refers to "having tenderness or goodness of nature" So when I looked up tenderness, it led to broken, and broken on to contrition. Did you look at the definition of the word contrition? I honestly think I have found my new least favored word. I don't like that word. In case you skipped through and didn't read it all, or maybe you read the whole thing and forgot what it said, or maybe you didn't skip through you just jumped right to the end, I will remind you what contrition means: 1. The act of grinding or rubbing to powder. 2. Penitence; deep sorrow for sin; grief of heart for having offended an infinitely holy and benevolent God. Yes. Brokenness of heart, of pride, of self. That is a hard thing to let happen. But to be kind, I must be tender, to be tender I must be broken, and to be broken, I must be contrite. So, in my quest for kindness, I was once again led back to the heart of the issue: the sinful heart of me. And since I strive to be more kind, guess what it means? I have be ground to powder, broken, tender, HUMBLE, and then I can be kind. Wow, see? I told you that you would be amazed. I never thought kindness would lead me there. But as I have learned, to be kind, I have to have a change of heart. Being kind is not kindness, not just the nice actions, it is a character state. A heart condition. Something I am far from...
*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^**^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*
And so now, persevering blog reader, you have read what I have learned (In my head) and have a glimpse of what I now face in my pursuit if being KIND.
But, to you faithful few who read all the way, you now possess my utmost respect, for wading through this wonderful stuff and now being accountable, like I am, as to what being KIND really means.
KINDNESS
Some scriptures having to do with the issue of kindness.
Ephesians 4:29-32 “Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear. Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you. ”
Colossians 4:6 “Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person.”
Proverbs 19:22 “What is desirable in a man is his kindness, and it is better to be a poor man than a liar.”
Proverbs 31:26 “She opens her mouth in wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.”
Ephesians 4:15 “But speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even Christ,”
Psalm 141:3 “Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips.”
James 3:5-12 “So also the tongue is a small part of the body, and yet it boasts of great things See how great a forest is set aflame by such a small fire! And the tongue is a fire, the very world of iniquity; the tongue is set among our members as that which defiles the entire body, and sets on fire the course of our life, and is set on fire by hell. For every species of beasts and birds, of reptiles and creatures of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by the human race. But no one can tame the tongue; it is a restless evil and full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the likeness of God; from the same mouth come both blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be this way. Does a fountain send out from the same opening both fresh and bitter water? Can a fig tree, my brethren, produce olives, or a vine produce figs? Nor can salt water produce fresh.”
Proverbs 1:4 “A soothing tongue is a tree of life, but perversion in it crushes the spirit.”
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Due to it's close association with kind words, we did a study on WHOLESOME.
(Does not appear in the NASB, so no Greek...)
Wholesome – 1. Tending to promote health; favoring health; salubrious; as wholesome air or diet; a wholesome climate. 2. Sound; contributing to the health of the mind; favorable to morals, religion or prosperity; as wholesome advice; wholesome doctrines; wholesome truths.
__Salubrious - Favorable to health; healthful; promoting health.
__Salutary – 1. Wholesome; healthful; promoting health. Diet and exercise are salutary to men of sedentary habits. 2. Promotive of public safety; contributing to some beneficial purpose. The strict discipline of youth has a salutary effect on society.
__Virtue – Moral goodness; the practice of moral duties and the abstaining from vice, or a conformity of life and conversation to the moral law.
____Vice – Any moral unfitness of conduct, either from defect of duty, or from the transgression or known principles or rectitude.
______Rectitude – In morality, righteousness of principle or practice; uprightness of mind; exact conformity to truth or the rules prescribed for moral conduct. Rectitude of mind is the disposition to act in conformity to any known standard of right, truth or justice; rectitude of conduct is the actual conformity to such a standard.
________Disposition – Temper or natural constitution of the mind; the temper or frame of mind.
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and WHOLESOMENESS
(Does not appear in the NASB, so no Greek...)
Wholesomeness - The quality of contributing to health; salubrious; as the wholesomeness of air or diet.
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and UNWHOLESOME
Greek
σαπρός saprose (sä-pro's)
rotten, putrefied; corrupted by one and no longer fit for use, worn out; of poor quality, bad, worthless.
Unwholesome - 1. Not wholesome; unfavorable to health; insalubrious; as unwholesome air or food. 2. Pernicious; as unwholesome advice. Taking away from the health of the mind.
__Insalubrious – Unfavorable to health; unhealthful; promoting health.
__Pernicious - 1. Destructive; having the quality of killing, destroying or injuring; very injurious or mischievous. Food, drink or air may be pernicious to life or health. 2. Destructive; tending to injure or destroy.
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and looked quickly at EDIFICATION
Edification – the advancement of excellence; virtuousness; proficiency toward wisdom and healthy learning; literally creating a framework to improve morally and intellectually.
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and now KINDNESS
Hebrew:
חסד checed (kheh'·sed)
mercy, kindness, lovingkindness, goodness, kindly, merciful, favour, good, goodliness, pity, reproach, wicked thing
Greek:
φιλαδελφία philadelphia (fē-lä-del-fē'-ä)
Love of brothers or sisters, brotherly love; in the NT the love which Christians cherish for each other as brethren.
φιλανθρωπία philanthrōpia (fē-län-thrō-pē'-ä)
love of mankind, benevolence
χρηστότης chrēstotēs (khrā-sto'-tās)
Moral goodness, integrity; benignity, kindness.
Kindness - 1. Good will; benevolence; that temper or disposition which delights in contributing to the happiness of others, which is exercised cheerfully in gratifying their wishes, supplying their wants or alleviating their distresses; benignity of nature. Kindness ever accompanies love. 2. Act of good will; beneficence; any act of benevolence which promotes the happiness or welfare of others. Charity, hospitality, attentions to the wants of others, &c., are deemed acts of kindness, or kindnesses.
__Benevolence - 1. The disposition to do good; good will; kindness; charitableness; the love of mankind, accompanied with a desire to promote their happiness. 2. An act of kindness; good done.
____Disposition – Temper or natural constitution of the mind; the temper or frame of mind.
__Cheerful - 1. Lively; animated; having good spirits; moderately joyful. 2. Expressive of good spirits or joy; lively; animated.
__Benign - 1. Kind; of a kind disposition; gracious; favorable.
__Beneficence - Doing good; performing acts of kindness and charity. It differs from benign, as the act from the disposition; beneficence being benignity or kindness exerted in action.
__Action - In ethics, the external signs or expression of the sentiments of a moral agent; conduct; behavior; demeanor; that is, motion or movement, with respect to a rule or propriety.
__Charity - 1. In a general sense, love, benevolence, good will; that disposition of heart which inclines men to think favorably of their fellow men to think favorably of their fellow men, and to do them good.
__Hospitality - The act or practice of receiving and entertaining strangers or guests without reward, or with kind and generous liberality.
____Liberality - A particular act of generosity; a donation; a gratuity.
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and KIND
Greek:
φύσις physis (fü'-sēs)
Nature, natural, kind, mankind, nature; the sum of innate properties and powers by which one person differs from others, distinctive native peculiarities, natural characteristics: the natural strength, ferocity, and intractability of beasts.
χρηστεύομαι chrēsteuomai (khrā-styü'-o-mī)
To show one's self mild, to be kind, use kindness.
χρηστός chrēstos (khrā-sto's)
Fit, fit for use, useful; virtuous, good; manageable; mild, pleasant (as opp. to harsh, hard sharp, bitter); of things: more pleasant, of people: more kind, benevolent.
Kind - 1. Disposed to do good to others, and to make them happy by granting their requests, supplying their wants or assisting them in distress; having tenderness or goodness of nature; benevolent; benignant. 2. Proceeding from tenderness or goodness of heart; benevolent; as a kind act; a kind return of favors.
__Illustrious - 1. Conspicuous; distinguished by the reputation of greatness; renowned; eminent; as an illustrious general or magistrate; an illustrious prince. 2. Conspicuous; renowned; conferring honor; as illustrious actions. 3. Glorious; as an illustrious display of the divine perfections. 4. A title of honor.
__Disposed - 2. To regulate; to adjust; to set in right order. 4. To set, place or turn to a particular end or consequence. 6. To set the mind in a particular frame; to incline. Avarice disposes men to fraud and oppression.
__Dispose - 1. Disposition; cast of behavior. 2. Disposition; cast of mind; inclination. 3. Natural fitness or tendency. 4. Inclination; propensity; the temper or frame of mind, as directed to particular objects.
__Distress - Affliction; calamity; misery.
__Tenderness - The state of being tender or easily broken. (pride ?) 2. Kind attention; anxiety for the good of another, or to save him from pain. 3. Softness of expression; pathos.
____Broken - Contrition; as brokenness of heart.
______Contrition - 1. The act of grinding or rubbing to powder. 2. Penitence; deep sorrow for sin; grief of heart for having offended an infinitely holy and benevolent God.
__Goodness - 1. The moral qualities which constitute christian excellence; moral virtue; religion. 2. Kindness; benevolence; benignity of heart; but more generally, acts of kindness; charity; humanity exercised. 3. Kindness; benevolence of nature; mercy. 4. Kindness; favor shown; acts of benevolence, compassion or mercy.
__Nature - 1. The established or regular course of things. 2. The essence, essential qualities or attributes of a thing, which constitute it what it is.
__Benevolence - 1. The disposition to do good; good will; kindness; charitableness; the love,of mankind, accompanied with a desire to promote their happiness. 2. An act of kindness; good done.
__Favor - A kind act or office; kindness done or granted; benevolence shown by word or deed; any act of grace or good will, as distinguished from acts of justice.
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The definitions I came up with based on my studies:
Kind - state of character in which one earnestly desires to do good to others, that results in actions of kindness.
Kindness – actions of goodness and tenderness for the good of another.
Unwholesomeness – That which is not only not good for one, but destructive to moral, spiritual and physical states.
Wholesome – Moral uprightness that contributes to the good health of the mind and development of character. (to build up the mind in knowledge faith and holiness)
*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^**^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*
A fascinating discovery: based on all the study we did on kind vs. kindness, we came to a most interesting conclusion. The word KIND refers to a state of being, a state of existance if you will, in which your CHARACTER possesses the traits that are enacted as kindness. The word KINDNESS refers not to a state of character, but rather a form of action. I always equated the two words as being the same. Shows what study will do: prove how little I really know! I love to learn!!!
*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^**^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*
Another interesting note...my least favorite part of all...in the study of the word kind, the definition refers to "having tenderness or goodness of nature" So when I looked up tenderness, it led to broken, and broken on to contrition. Did you look at the definition of the word contrition? I honestly think I have found my new least favored word. I don't like that word. In case you skipped through and didn't read it all, or maybe you read the whole thing and forgot what it said, or maybe you didn't skip through you just jumped right to the end, I will remind you what contrition means: 1. The act of grinding or rubbing to powder. 2. Penitence; deep sorrow for sin; grief of heart for having offended an infinitely holy and benevolent God. Yes. Brokenness of heart, of pride, of self. That is a hard thing to let happen. But to be kind, I must be tender, to be tender I must be broken, and to be broken, I must be contrite. So, in my quest for kindness, I was once again led back to the heart of the issue: the sinful heart of me. And since I strive to be more kind, guess what it means? I have be ground to powder, broken, tender, HUMBLE, and then I can be kind. Wow, see? I told you that you would be amazed. I never thought kindness would lead me there. But as I have learned, to be kind, I have to have a change of heart. Being kind is not kindness, not just the nice actions, it is a character state. A heart condition. Something I am far from...
*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^**^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*
And so now, persevering blog reader, you have read what I have learned (In my head) and have a glimpse of what I now face in my pursuit if being KIND.
But, to you faithful few who read all the way, you now possess my utmost respect, for wading through this wonderful stuff and now being accountable, like I am, as to what being KIND really means.
...on kindness. Imagine that. It is for family Bible Study time. Let me make a disclaimer: if you ever do a word study on kindness, prepare to be amazed. I have been. Seriously, there is SOOO much more in the meaning of that word than I EVER guessed. So once I'm done, I'll put that study up here. You can wade through it, and be convicted just like me :)
...ceasing to worry, leaving the future to the God who controls the future...accepting the truth that in spite of all I've done, God has wiped the slate clean and delights in me...giving up the image of perfection I struggle for and accepting GRACE...waiting patiently for God to make me more Christ-like through difficult people and circumstances when I want Him to give me a quick fix - preferably painless...remembering that I carry God's awesome presence into each daily routine encounter even when I feel like a dull leaden weight...keeping on keeping on when I am dog-tired, discouraged, disillusioned, deserted, dusty dry - cast on His strength alone...accepting the fact that God knows better than I do what is ultimately good for me and brings HIM the most glory...walking before God, not anyone else...appreciating that my capacity to feel, communicate, think, choose, and commune with God comes from His making me more like Himself...trusting that God is doing His work in me when I feel inwardly cold, hollow, lifeless, deserted, and I long for reassurance...speaking the truth in love even at the cost of position or friendship...doing the right thing regardless of the consequences...reliance on the certainty that God has a plan for my life when everything seems uncertain...confidence that God is enacting His plan when He answers "No" to my prayers...thanking God when I am left with shattered plans, that He has better plans...LETTING GO OF THAT WHICH GOD IS ASKING ME FOR.
You know, it's about 9 degrees outside, and my arm aches cause a nurse stuck me in the nerve yesterday, and I'm getting over a head cold, but none of it seems to matter much...I have the most amazing family ever! I am alive and well, and amazed that God even granted me the great gift if life! I am more amazed as the days go by as I see God's hand at work in my life, in ways I never imagined possible! I look back and revel even more at how I see His hand at work when I never guessed! Today was created by God, so my job is to just enjoy it, for FREE! How easy is that?!!! My life was saved by the death of my very best friend, and comes with a promise of eternal life spent WITH my very best friend!!!
God is AWESOME!
Life is indeed a blessing, which I do not deserve.
God is AWESOME!
Life is indeed a blessing, which I do not deserve.
These sentences (with all the BLOOPERS) appeared in church bulletins or were announced in church services:
The Fasting & Prayer Conference includes meals.
The sermon this morning: 'Jesus Walks on the Water.' The sermon tonight: 'Searching for Jesus.'
Ladies, don't forget the rummage sale. It's a chance to get rid of those things not worth keeping around the house. Bring your husbands.
Remember in prayer the many who are sick of our community. Smile at someone who is hard to love. Say 'Hell' to someone who doesn't care much about you.
Don't let worry kill you off - let the Church help.
Miss Charlene Mason sang 'I will not pass this way again,' giving obvious pleasure to the congregation.
For those of you who have children and don't know it, we have a nursery downstairs.
Next Thursday there will be tryouts for the choir. They need all the help they can get.
Irving Benson and Jessie Carter were married on October 24 in the church. So ends a friendship that began in their school days.
At the evening service tonight, the sermon topic will be 'What Is Hell?' Come early and listen to our choir practice.
Eight new choir robes are currently needed due to the addition of several new members and to the deterioration of some older ones.
Scouts are saving aluminium cans, bottles and other items to be recycled. Proceeds will be used to cripple children.
Please place your donation in the envelope along with the deceased person you want remembered.
The church will host an evening of fine dining, super entertainment and gracious hostility.
Potluck supper Sunday at 5:00 PM - prayer and medication to follow.
Low Self Esteem Support Group will meet Thursday at 7 PM. Please use the back door.
The eighth-graders will be presenting Shakespeare's Hamlet in the Church basement Friday at 7 PM. The congregation is invited to attend this tragedy.
Weight Watchers will meet at 7 PM at the First Presbyterian Church. Please use large double door at the side entrance.
The Fasting & Prayer Conference includes meals.
The sermon this morning: 'Jesus Walks on the Water.' The sermon tonight: 'Searching for Jesus.'
Ladies, don't forget the rummage sale. It's a chance to get rid of those things not worth keeping around the house. Bring your husbands.
Remember in prayer the many who are sick of our community. Smile at someone who is hard to love. Say 'Hell' to someone who doesn't care much about you.
Don't let worry kill you off - let the Church help.
Miss Charlene Mason sang 'I will not pass this way again,' giving obvious pleasure to the congregation.
For those of you who have children and don't know it, we have a nursery downstairs.
Next Thursday there will be tryouts for the choir. They need all the help they can get.
Irving Benson and Jessie Carter were married on October 24 in the church. So ends a friendship that began in their school days.
At the evening service tonight, the sermon topic will be 'What Is Hell?' Come early and listen to our choir practice.
Eight new choir robes are currently needed due to the addition of several new members and to the deterioration of some older ones.
Scouts are saving aluminium cans, bottles and other items to be recycled. Proceeds will be used to cripple children.
Please place your donation in the envelope along with the deceased person you want remembered.
The church will host an evening of fine dining, super entertainment and gracious hostility.
Potluck supper Sunday at 5:00 PM - prayer and medication to follow.
Low Self Esteem Support Group will meet Thursday at 7 PM. Please use the back door.
The eighth-graders will be presenting Shakespeare's Hamlet in the Church basement Friday at 7 PM. The congregation is invited to attend this tragedy.
Weight Watchers will meet at 7 PM at the First Presbyterian Church. Please use large double door at the side entrance.
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