Two Types of Wisdom

The Bible tells us that there are two different types of wisdom, worldly wisdom and spiritual wisdom.  I thought it might be interesting to take a look at the two. 

Paul warns against worldly wisdom in 1 Corinthians 3:18 - 17.

Let no one deceive himself.  If anyone among you seems to be wise in this age, let him become a fool that he may become wise.  For hte wisdom of this world is foolishness with God.  For it is written, "He catches the wise in their own craftiness"; and again, "The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are futile."  Therefore let no one boast in men.  For all things are yours; whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas, or the world or life or death, or things present or things to come -- all are yours.  And you are Christ's, and Christ is God's.

Worldly Wisdom...

• Sees the message of the Cross as foolishness (1 Cor. 1:18)
• Does not know God (1 Cor. 1:21)
• Boasts in men (1 Cor. 3:21)
• Takes pride in human knowledge (1 Cor. 8:2)
• Is puffed up (1 Cor. 4:6)
• Criticizes leadership (1 Cor. 4:8)
• Relies on the power of words (1 Cor. 4:20)
• Takes pride in personal accomplishmens (1 Cor. 4:27)
• Scoffs at differences (1 Cor. 12:21)
• Insists on personal rights (1 Cor. 8:9)
• Is insensitive to others (1 Cor. 8:11)
• Arrogantly wounds others (1 Cor. 8:12)
• Leads to envy, strife, and division (1 Cor. 1:10, 3:3)
• Is full of malice (1 Cor. 14:20)
• Is subject to "fall" (1 Cor. 10:12)
• Will be caught in its own craftiness (1 Cor. 3:19)
• Has immature understanding (1 Cor. 3:1, 14:20)
• Will not last (1 Cor. 3:15)

In 1 Corinthians 2:10-16, Paul writes about Spiritual Wisdom. 

But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit.  For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God.  For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him?  Even so no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God.  Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God.  These things we also speak, not in words which man's widom teaches but which the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual.  But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.  But he who is spiritual judges all things, yet he himself is rightly judged by no one.  For "who has known the mind of the Lord that he may instruct Him?" But we have the mind of Christ. 

Simplifying it, Spirtual Wisdom...

• Realizes the message of the Cross is the power of God (1 Cor. 1:18)
• Demonstrates the power of God (1 Cor. 2:5)
• Glories in the Lord (1 Cor. 1:31)
• Knows the mind of Christ (1 Cor. 2:16)
• Seeks meekness and humility (1 Cor. 2:3)
• Submits to spiritual leadership (1 Cor. 14:37, 16:16)
• Relies on the power of God (1 Cor. 4:20)
• Recognizes God as source of everything (1 Cor. 6:19-20)
• Respects diversity (1 Cor. 12:11)
• Becomes servant of all (1 Cor. 9:19)
• Edifies others (1 Cor. 8:1)
• Seeks another's well-being (1 Cor. 10:24)
• Pursues unity (1 Cor. 12:13)
• Walks in the way of love (1 Cor. 13:11)
• Stands up under temptation (1 Cor. 10:13)
• Maintains self-control and discipline (1 Cor. 6:12, 9:27)
• Develops maturity (1 Cor. 2:6)
• Will last (1 Cor. 3:10-14)

I bolded the last description of each type of wisdom because I think that is one of the most important things for us to remember.  Only the teachings of Christ will last.  Nothing else.  Should we decide to follow something else, then we must realize that we too will not last.  Only following the teachings of Christ will we have the chance for eternal salvation. 

...Your faith should not be in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. -- 1 Corinthians 2:5

Blessings in Christ,

The Divine Duet

I started reading "Overcoming Negative Emotions" Sunday. It's kind of interesting, and one thing the author did kind of jumped out at me.

I've been told many times that a realationship with God is not just a one-way street, He will not force us to come to Him. He is always there for us, but we have to go to Him. The author emphasized this point in a different manner than had ever been given to me.

The Divine Duet.

We have a partnership with God. We can see the partnership throughout Scripture between God an dpeople and the benefits we get.

She picks several key scriptures and divides it into three categories.
1. God's part
2. Our part
3. The end result

So take Joshua 1:9 for example.
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
She breaks it down to:
God's part: Stay with us wherever we go
Our part: Choose courage; don't tremble
End result: Living in the comfort of His awesome presence

At the end of that chapter, she leaves 9 sections from scripture to be evaluated in that pattern as to "further solidify the 'divine duet' truth in your heart". They are below.

John 3:16 - For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.
God's part:
Our part:
End result:

Philippians 4:6-7 - 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.
God's part:
Our part:
End result:

2 Corinthians 6:17-18 - 'Therefore come out from their midst and be separate', says the Lord...'And I will welcome you. And I will be a father to you, and you shall be sons and daughters to me.'
God's part:
Our part:
End result:

James 4:8 - Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.
God's part:
Our part:
End result:

Ephesians 6:11 - Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil.
God's part:
Our part:
End result:

1 John 1:9 - If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
God's part:
Our part:
End result:

Matthew 6:14 - If you forgive others for their transgressions, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.
God's part:
Our part:
End result:

Hebrews 12:1-2 - Since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith.
God's part:
Our part:
End result:

Matthew 6:25,33 - Do not be worried about yoru life, as to what you will eat or what you will drink; nor for your body as to what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?...Seek first [God's] kingdom and His righteousness and all these things will be added to you.
God's part:
Our part:
End result:


Blessings in Christ,

False Teachings

False prophets and teachings are something that Paul warns against in his letters to various churches.

Colossians 2:4-23
4 And this I say, lest any man should beguile (deceive) you with enticing words
5 For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ.
6 As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him:
7 Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taugth abounding therein with thanksgiving.
8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.
9 For in him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.
10 And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:
11 In whom also ye are circumcised with teh circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ:
12 Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;
14 Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;
15 And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a show of them openly, triumphing over them in it.
16 Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of a holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days:
17 Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ.
18 Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humily and worshiping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshy mind,
19 And not holidng the Head, form which all the body by joints and bands having nurishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God.
20 Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances,
21 (Touch not; taste not; handle not;
22 Which all are to perish with the using;) after the commandments and doctrines of men?
24 Which things have indeed a show of wisdom in will-worship, and humility, and neglecting of the body; not in any honor to the satisfying of the flesh.

In verse 8, spoil can also be rendered "carry you away from the truth by false teaching" as noted in the comments section of my Bible.

1 Timothy 4:3-7
3 As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine,
4 Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do.
5 Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:
6 From which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling;
7 Desiring to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm.

1 Timothy 6:1-10
1 Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honor, that the name of God and his doctirne be not blasphemed.
2 And they that have believing masters, let them not despise them, because they are brethren; but rather do them service, because they are faithful and beloved, partakers of the benefit. These things teach and exhort.
3 If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;
4 He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,
5 Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.
6 But godliness with contentment is great gain.
7 For we brought nothing into this world and it is certain we can carry nothing out.
8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
9 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.
10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

Titus 1:10-16
10 For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision:
11 Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake.
12 One of themselves, even a prophet of their own, said, The Cretians are always liars, evil beasts, slow bellies.
13 This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith;
14 Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth.
15 Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled.
16 They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.

How do we know who is a "false prophet"? I think the only way to know is to compare what that person is saying to the Word of God, the only true word there is. Until then we have no idea who is teaching the truth and who is trying to lead us astray.

One of the most common false teachings I have come across are the teachings about meat. Which meat is okay to each and which meat we should not eat as Christians. There are quite a few "Torah Observant" Christians who obey the OT laws and I'm trying to even remember the reasoning why I was told we should still obey OT law on that, but I can't seem to at the moment. I personally am not convicted of that, I do not believe that as Christians today we need to obey the OT laws because as the Bible says, we are no longer bound by the Law of Moses because we have been saved by the Grace of God and His sacrifice of His only son, Jesus Christ our Lord. But I will not and do not judge those who feel they are still bound by some laws of the OT.

Do you obey the Old Testament laws or are you a Christian of the New Testament?

Blessings in Christ,

Love is...

I am sure we have all heard the popular "wedding" verses from 1 Corinthians 13. When I was in confirmation we all had to pick a scripture verse or two that we really enjoyed. I picked 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, much to my mother's disapproval. To her, that was only for a wedding, not something which was to be read on our confirmation day, and being that she was my teacher, I had to convice her that it could be used otherwise. I told her my second choice (which I do not remember) and she responded saying it was a verse for funerals and she would rather I use the first selection.

Is 1 Cornithians 13 only for weddings? No. We are instructed to love each other as our brother or sister and so the love verses very much apply to our everyday life as a Christian.

The KJV uses charity instead of love. Although the greek definition of the word agapē translated to mean charity is love, when we think of charity, what often comes to mind? I think of a place or person whom needs my help or giving something to charity is giving something to the needy. I do not think of charity as being love, although I suppose it could be.

For devotions one Sunday, the brother went through the four verses explaining what each of the things love is. I do not remember all that he said, but I do remember one specific comment.

1 Corinthians 13:4-8
4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,
5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;
6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;
7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.

In verse 5, it was mentioned that the word "easily" was added to make us feel like we can attain not being easily provoked, afterall, who will not be provoked by anything? In the NKJV and NASB, the word easily is left out. In the german Bible, a different word is used rather than easily, one that is harsher, but I do not remember what it was.

I believe these verses are all what we should strive for in our love towards others. Jesus set a wonderful example for us with His love and now it is our turn to be disciples of Christ and show our love to the world.
Blessings in Christ,

The end times are coming?

This all started last night because I was on the Amish America website and my roommate glanced at the title of the post 'Amish leading the way in clean energy?'. In it, there was a statement from the State of the Union address by President Obama saying by 2035, 80% of the USA's energy will be clean energy. My roommate read that and said "I don't think we'll be around then". She went on to explain that she believes the end times are much nearer to us than many people think... I'm truly not sure about this as I have not read Revelations.

The church I grew up in discouraged the reading of Revelation and it is one thing that I have obeyed and still haven't done. In part, the discouragement was due to not wanting children to read it and not have anyone to ask questions to, thus if we had read it with our Pastor, it would have been fine, but I never pursued that. Right now we are studying Revelation in Sunday School and truth be told I'm not a fan of it.

In some cases I am a person who wants to know what will happen before it actually happens, but in other cases, I would rather not know what is going to happen. This is one of those cases. I do not care to know what the end times will be like or how I will die.

The conversation went on last night about how some people are comparing our current president to the Anti-Christ as written in Revelation. Apparantly, the events in Revalation leading up to the end times are something that she sees in our world here right now. I cannot speak on this too much as I have only limited encounters with the Book of Revelation.

But, what do you think? Are things in our world similar to what is said in Revelation?

Blessings in Christ,

1 Tim 2:11-12

1 Timothy 2:11 Let the women learn in silence with all subjection.
12 But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence.

What exactly does this mean? To what extent should a woman not teach?

I take it to mean that in church a woman should not give her interpretation of scripture or ask questions when in the presence of men her own age or older. The church that I have attended the past couple weeks separate the adult women and men for Sunday School so in that case I do believe it would be okay for a woman to give her interpretation or ask questions (the teacher is a woman as well). This church also has the teen and adult women to teach the young children up to the age of 8 approximately. I believe that is okay because in a home setting, the wife/mom is still the primary teacher up until this age. I think 8 is usually the time then when the man/husband takes over the scriptural teaching for the boys of the family but the woman/wife still leads her daughters. Do I think it would be wrong to have a man teach all ages of children? No, but I also know that sometimes younger children are more likely to shy away from a man they are not familiar with than to shy away from a woman they are not familiar with. Although, most of the people in this church are so close that they know everyone... but it does not mean that the children understand who someone is :)

Blessings in Christ,

"More Right"?

Lately it seems I have encountered quite a few people, of varying denominations, who want to argue which denomination does things "more right". Is there such a thing as more right?

Some of the arguments are as follows:
1. We do the Lord's Supper more correct than the Amish because we feet wash, have a common meal and then share the bread & wine.

2. We do not allow our youth to live in one world before they are baptized and then require them to be of the Christian world after baptism, we have them live in the Christian life the whole time.

3. We follow the Lord's wishes with baptism more closely than the Amish because we do not require our youth to wait 6 months before they can be baptized after they confess their faith; typically the next night we will gather for a baptism.

Here's what I think:
1. Does the order of the Lord's Supper really matter? I don't know that it does... Especially if it is changed to allow for less interuptions of the solemn service, ie. the foot washing is done after the sharing of the bread & wine, because in most churches the foot washing is not done in the same room where the service and the bread & wine are shared.

2. This came from a lady who comes from a faith where the girls do not cover until they join the church. I believe that there are different ways to raise the youth and that does not always fall on the Church, it must fall on the parents to decide how to raise their children. If the Church prohibits covering by non-member females then is that really following the Bible? I don't think so. In addition, if a woman is not required to cover before she becomes a member, is she really being raised in a way that will emphasize the Christian beliefs of the church she will join?

3. If you do not have an instructional or discipleship program, how do the youth know what is expected of them after they join the church? I believe the discipleship program is very important in order for the youth to learn the expectations of them when they join the church and for the church leaders to verify that the youth understand what baptism really is and that the youth know what will be expected of them as church members.

I do not mean to judge anyone or any other denomination, it is simply my intent and wish to bring up some new thoughts for us all to think about. Comments are welcome as always :)

Blessings in Christ,

Holy Kiss

Lately I have been wondering about the Holy Kiss practiced by most conservative groups of Christianity. I know it's taught in the Bible 1 Thessalonians 5:26 (KJV) "Greet all the brethren with a holy kiss." But does this mean a kiss on the cheek or on the lips? That is what I wonder about.

The church I attend right now practices a Holy Kiss on the lips, but a previous church I attended goes on the cheek. My thoughts are that the cheek would be better, simply because these same churches are teaching against homosexuality. I would think Holy Kisses on the lips might promote that feeling in some members. I know for myself, I plan to reserve the lips only for my husband. If I do not even greet my mom, dad or other family with a kiss on the lips, but rather one on the cheek, why would I allow my Church family to greet me on the lips?

I have been told by some that the lips is the only place for a true kiss and that is why the Holy Kiss should be on the lips, but I don't know that I agree with that.

If anyone has any thoughts or comments on this subject I would be interested in hearing them as this concept is a fairly new one to me.

Blessings in Christ,

Commands of the Bible

A few weeks ago, one of the ministers preached on the commands of the Bible and I thought it was worth sharing. There are seven commands in the Bible (not including the 10 Commandments).

1 - Come to a place of safety
Genesis 7:1-5
Hebrews 11:7
2 - Come for a personal cleansing
Isaiah 1:16-20
Psalm 51
Ephesians 1:6-8
3 - Come to a Godly fellowship
Numbers 10:29
Isaiah 26:1
Do we find safety in the church?
Psalm 48:12-13
4 - Come for a satisfying portion
Isaiah 55:1
Remember...the price has been paid!
John 7:37-39
5 - Come for rest
Matthew 11:28-29
6 - Come at the King's urgent invitation
Matthew 22:1-13
7 - Come to Him
Revelation 22:17
Revelation 3:20-21

Because of Jesus' death on the cross for us, ALL men may have salvation!
Luke 3:6-8
Acts 21
Romans 5:18
1 Timothy 2:4
Titus 2:11-12
2 Peter 3:9

I'm sure the last point is one that we all remember, but it is still such a joy to see the words again and again printed in the Book of Truth!

Another minister talked about three things that we should be continually asking God to help us with.
1. Lead me in thy truth
2. Teach me thy ways
3. Lead me in thy righteousness
Citing the following scripture verses
Isaiah 42:16
Isaiah 48:17
John 16:13
Psalm 23:2
Psalm 25:9
Psalm 73:24

Blessings in Christ,

The Lord is my...

My roommate absolutely loved her dress. But me on the otherhand, ugh. There are so many things about it I wish she would let me fix, but she doesn't care :) I have much higher standards on how my clothing and kapps look than she does...or maybe we should say I have a much more detailed eye when it comes to these things! I am comparing the dress I made her to the one I made with her help and the one I made with her help fits so much better, but she loves this one anyway. Guess I need to let it go eh?

My first dress I absolutely hate. I don't think I will ever wear it. The pattern I used didn't get adjusted enough so I had about an inch of extra material on each side from my torso through my hips. I tried to fix it simply by taking in the seams last night but now the seams aren't even and it's visible to the eye. Another thing is I apparantly needed to put darts in the back of my dress (even though the pattern didn't tell me to) because it just hangs there and I hate how it looks/feels on me. Oh well. My roommate said she would fix it for me so I guess I will see how it turns out in the very end.

Something I have been wanting to post for quite a while now and kept forgetting what it was is a list of everything the Bible calls our Lord. It is fairly long, but I hope it will be a blessing to someone just as it was for me.

The Lord is my...
Creator - 1 Peter 4:19
Helper - Hebrews 13:5-6, Psalms 33:20
Way, Truth, and Life - John 14:6
Provider - Psalms 33:18-19
Comforter - John 14:16-27, 2 Corinthians 1:3-7
Father - Romans 8:15
Teacher - Psalms 32:8
Guide - Psalms 48:14, Isaiah 58:11
King - Psalms 74:12, 89:18
Leader - Isaiah 42:16
Confidence - Proverbs 3:26
Warrior - Psalms 24:7-8, Exodus 14:13-14
Defender - Psalms 94:22
Power - 2 Samuel 22:33, Isaiah 40:29
Protector - Psalms 91
Victory - 1 Corinthians 15:57, Romans 8:37
Inheritance - Psalms 16:5
True God - Jeremiah 10:10, John 17:3
Hope - Psalms 39:7, Jeremiah 17:7
Sun and Shield - Psalms 84:11
Goodness - Psalms 144:2, 15
Light, Salvation and Glory - Psalms 27:1, 112:4
Refuge and Strength - Psalms 46:1, Jeremiah 16:19
Fountain of LIfe - Psalms 36:7-9
Stronghold - Nahum 1:7, Psalms 61:1-3
Joy and Delight - Psalms 43:4, Isaiah 12:3, Job 22:21, 26
Complete - Colossians 2:10
Fullness - John 1:16, Ephesians 3:19
All in All - Ephesians 4:6, Colossians 3:11
Rock - 2 Samuel 22:47, Psalms 18:2
Fortress - Jeremiah 16:19
Deliverer - Romans 8:21, Psalms 34:4, 17, 19
Saviour - Psalms 28:7-8, 1 John 4:14
Buckler - Proverbs 2:6-8
High Tower - Proverbs 18:10
Shield - Psalms 33:20
Shepherd - Psalms 23:1
Foundation - 1 Corinthians 3:11
Preserver - Psalms 121:7-8, Jude 1
Wonderful Counselor - Isaiah 9:6
Healer - Psalms 103:3, 147:3, Isaiah 53:5, Luke 4:18
Hiding Place - Psalms 32:7, Isaiah 32:1-2
Present Help - Psalms 46:1, 86:15-17, 124:8
Redeemer - Psalms 34:22, 103:4, Isaiah 47:4, Titus 2:11-14
Mercy - Psalms 86:5, 7, 15, Isaiah 54:7
Compassion - Psalms 145:8, Titus 3:4-5
Health - Psalms 42:11
Maker - Psalms 95:6-7
Shade and Keeper - Psalms 121:5
Husband and Habitation - Isaiah 54:5, Psalms 71:3, Isaiah 32:18
Strength and Power - 2 Samuel 22:33, Psalms 18:2, 27:1, 46:1, Philippians 4:13, Isaiah 40:30-31, Isaiah 41:10

I have more of these with different topics and I do plan to post them sparatically as I feel led to.

Blessings in Christ,

Put Off - Put On

I found this on-line this past summer and I have gained from it, I hope you can as well.

The part is the sin that we should put off, then there is scriptural insight (the first is the scritpure referring to the sin and the second is the scripture referring to the righteous deed) and following that is the righteous deed to put on.

Put Off - Put On Scriptures

1. Lack of love 1Jo 4:7,8,20 Jhn 15:12 Love
2. Judging Mat 7:1,2 Jhn 8:9;Jhn 15:22 Let God search my heart
3. Bitterness Hbr 12:15 Eph 4:32 Tenderhearted and forgiving
4. Unforgiving Sprit Mar 11:26 Col 3:13 Forgiving spirit
5. Selfishness Phl 2:21 Jhn 12:24 Self denial
6. Pride Pro 16:5 Jam 4:6 Humility
7. Boasting (Conceit) 1Cr 4:7 Phl 2:3 Esteeming others
8. Stubbornness 1Sa 15:23 Rom 6:13 Brokenness
9. Disrespect for authority Act 23:5 Hbr 13:17 Honor authority
10. Rebellion 1Sa 15:23 Hbr 13:17 Submission
11. Disobedience 1Sa 12:15 Deu 11:27 Obedience
12. Impatience Jam 1:2-4 Hbr 10:36 Patience
13. Ungratefulness Rom 1:21 Eph 5:20 Gratefulness
14. Covetousness Luk 12:15 Hbr 13:5 Contentment
15. Discontent Hbr 13:5 1Ti 6:8 Contentment
16. Murmuring/Complaining Phl 2:14 Hbr 13:15 Praise
17. Irritation of others Gal 5:26 Phl 2:3,4 Preferring in love
18. Jealousy Gal 5:26 1Cr 13:4 Trust
19. Strife/Contention Pro 13:10 Jam 3:17 Peace
20. Retaliation (Getting even) Pro 24:29 Rom 12:19,20 Return good for evil
21. Losing temper Pro 25:28 Pro 16:32 Self-control
22. Anger Pro 29:22 Gal 5:22,23 Self-control
23. Wrath Jam 1:19,20 Pro 15:1 Soft answer
24. Easily irritated 1Cr 13:5 Pro 19:11 Not easily provoked
25. Hatred Mat 5:21,22 1Cr 13:3 Love
26. Murder Exd 20:13 Rom 13:10 Love
27. Gossip 1Ti 5:13 Eph 4:29 Edifying speech
28. Evil speaking Jam 4:11 Pro 15:30 Good report
29. Critical spirit Gal 5:15 Col 3:12 Kindness
30. Lying Eph 4:25 Zec 8:16 Speak truth
31. Profanity Pro 4:24 Pro 15:4 Pure speech
32. Idle words Mat 12:36 Pro 21:23 Bridle tongue
33. Wrong motives 1Sa 16:7 1Cr 10:31 Spiritual motives
34. Evil thoughts Mat 5:19,20 Phl 4:8 Pure thoughts
35. Complacency Rev 3:15 Rev 3:19 Zeal
36. Laziness Pro 20:4 Pro 6:6-11 Diligence
37. Slothfulness (Not doing best) Pro 18:9 Col 3:23 Wholeheartedness
38. Hypocrisy Job 8:13 1Th 2:3 Sincerity
39. Idolatry Deu 11:16 Col 1:18 Worship God only
40. Left first love Rev 2:4 Rev 2:5 Fervent devotion
41. Lack of rejoicing always Phl 4:4 1Th 5:18 Rejoice
42. Worry/Fear Mat 6:25-32 1Pe 5:7 Trust
43. Unbelief Hbr 3:12 Hbr 11:1,6 Faith
44. Unfaithfulness Pro 25:19 Luk 16:10-12 Faithfulness
45. Neglect of Bible study 2Ti 3:14-17 Psa 1:2 Bible study/Meditation
46. Prayerlessness Luk 18:1 Mat 26:41 Praying
47. No burden for the lost Mat 9:36-38 Act 1:8 Compassion/Witnessing
48. Burying talents Luk 12:48 1Cr 4:2 Developing abilities
49. Irresponsibility (Family/Work) Luk 16:12 Luk 16:10 Responsibility
50. Procrastination Pro 10:5 Pro 27:1 Diligence
51. Irreverence in church Ecc 5:1 Psa 89:7 Reverence
52. Inhospitable 1Pe 4:9 Rom 12:13 Hospitable
53. Cheating 2Cr 4:2 2Cr 8:21 Honesty
54. Stealing Pro 29:24 Eph 4:28 Working/Giving
55. Lack of moderation Pro 11:1 1Cr 9:25 Temperance
56. Gluttony Pro 23:21 1Cr 9:27 Discipline
57. Wrong friends Psa 1:1 Pro 13:20 Godly friends
58. Temporal values Mat 6:19-21 2Cr 4:18 Eternal value
59. Love of money/Greed 1Ti 6:9,10 Mat 6:33 Love God
60. Stinginess 1Jo 3:17 Pro 11:24,25 Generosity
61. Moral impurity 1Th 4:7 1Th 4:4 Moral purity
62. Fornication 1Cr 6:18 1Th 4:3 Abstinence
63. Lust 1Pe 2:11 Tts 2:12 Pure desires
64. Adultery Mat 5:27,28 Pro 5:14-19 Marital fidelity
65. Homosexuality Lev 18:22 1Th 4:4,5 Moral purity
66. Incest Lev 18:6 1Cr 7:2,5 Moral purity
67. Pornography Psa 101:3 Phl 4:8 Pure thoughts
68. Immodest dress Pro 7:10 1Ti 2:9 Modesty
69. Flirtation Pro 7:21 1Pe 3:4 Gentle, quiet spirit
70. Worldly entertainment Pro 21:17 Gal 5:16 Spiritual pursuits
71. Fleshly music Eph 4:29,30 Eph 5:19 Edifying music
72. Bodily harm 1Cr 3:16,17 1Cr 6:19,20 Glorify God in body
73. Alcoholism Pro 20:1 Pro 23:30 Abstinence
74. Following the crowd Pro 1:10 Pro 3:7 God-fearing
75. Witchcraft/Astrology/Horoscopes Deu 18:10,11 Deu 6:5 Worship of God
76. Gambling Pro 28:20,22 Luk 16:11 Good stewardship
77. Preferential treatment Jam 2:1-9 Luk 6:31 Love neighbor as self
78. Presumption on the future Pro 27:1 Jam 4:14-16 Trust God's will

Blessings in Christ,

How to Pray...

One pastor I met and attended his church for a while said there were four important passages for us as Christians to read and understand for our prayer life. He said they would teach us how to pray even for those who we considered our enemies or at least not a friend.

John 1:1-18
Philippians 2:5-11
Hebrews 1:1-3
Colossians 1:12-20 (this one is approximate)

Especially in Colossians Paul gives us such a great example of how to pray for those we may not know too well but we know that they need our prayer.

Prayer is a powerful thing. It can help in such an unspeakable way that I don't even know where to start. My family has had some bouts with cancer, several of the people were told that they had only a few months to live, and one is now 4 years out from first diagnosis and the other is one year out. I truly believe this is all because of the power of prayer. Both people have a faith background and had strong prayer circles praying for their win over the disease and God granted that to both of them. This is just one simple example of the power of prayer. I am sure all of us have had experiences with what others may label as miracles, but we label as the Power of God and prayer!

Take time to pray and think on the different scriptures that help us to learn how to be more effective in our prayer life, it will only help us as Christians :) I by no means am a wonderful sayer of prayer, in fact I refuse to say prayer outloud because it is so jumbled in my head that I doubt anyone would follow me, but I am trying, and that is what counts in God's eyes :)

Blessings in Christ,

Making Excuses...

I got back last Wednesday from a long(er) trip than I had expected. Church on Sunday was good. I have been attending a Beachy church on my last few trips and will probably continue to attend after I move. The preacher was talking about making excuses and how we just need to take responsibility for our actions and not make excuses. He said that his son when asked to help with the dishes one night responded "it's too hot"...which got a nice chuckle from the women's side of the church :) He went onto add that he had just placed a fan pointing in the direction of the kitchen sink and it was probably the coolest place in the house at that point. Seems that in the midst of making excuses to get out of something that we don't want to do, we may also be giving up something? There aren't many times in the Bible that excuses are used, but here are the references for the ones that the preacher gave.

- Genesis 3:12-13
- 1 Samuel 15
- Exodus 3:10-11
- Exodus 4:1, 10
- Exodus 32:2, 24
- Acts 24
- Luke 14:16-24
- Ezekiel 18:5-9, 20
- Luke 10:30-36
- Revelations 20:12

Thought I would share with you the message :)

Blessings in Christ,

To Live is Christ!

Today's Bible Verse of the Day is from Philippians 1:21 "For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain". I absolutely love this verse and felt it necessary to keep this verse alive for more than one day!!

Blessings in Christ,

Changes...

So many changes are happening right now. The biggest one is that this morning I officially turned down the only full-time job offer I have ever had. Neither of my parents are in agreement, they knew it was going to happen because I told them I was giong to turn it down, they just don't know that it happened already this morning. Why would I do such a thing when I have student loans to pay back? I feel this is what the Lord wanted me to do -- I really feel that He is preparing me to move. In my heart, I know that this was the right thing to do, but in my head I'm calling myself names because I am going to have to work two part-time jobs in order to make enough money for my bills each month. On the otherhand, I will get to do what I want :) Substitute teaching and EMT-B! I have wanted to try my hand at EMT for a few years now but my parents say that it is a job that is beneath me. My view? I know it's going to be tough, demanding work, but I really want to try it. I feel like I will regret it if I do not try it, and so far the Lord has paved the way for both of these jobs for me.

I feel like the Lord is also telling me to move out of the area that I am currently living in. I feel He is pulling me towards a Mennonite community that I have been spending a bit of time in as of late and I am really hoping that it is what He wants. So far it appears it is because the two jobs I want to work at, I am eligible for both of them where I would move to. It is finding a place to stay now that I need to keep looking for and praying on.

Anyway, enough about that kind of stuff. Question: How do you feel about Bible Studies?

I have a friend who is against them because she was raised to not take part in them and the church that she was attending for a while before moving is against them. They have the view that you can alter a person's thinking too much with thoughts that do not directly come from God because the leader may interpret God's Word too much. My thinking? As long as I do not have to lead it or participate I will sit and listen and then make my own decisions. But I can see where the church is coming from that is against them...all too many times we can alter someone's thinking simply by adding our own interpretations to God's Word instead of letting God work in the person.

Today's scripture comes from Proverbs 3:5 (KJV) - "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding" and Psalm 48:14 (KJV) - "For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death."

Blessings in Christ,

Love Like Crazy

"Just ask him how he did it; he'll say pull up a seat
It'll only take a minute, to tell you everything
Be a best friend, tell the truth, and overuse I love you
Go to work, do your best, don't outsmart your common sense
Never let your prayin' knees get lazy
And love like crazy"
- Love Like Crazy, Lee Brice

So I like country music. Well some of it; this song happens to be one of them. The chorus of the song really strikes me, because not only does it apply to our relationships, but it applies to everything in life. In how we deal with other people, things, and above all, God. We cannot forget to pray. If we forget to pray, nothing will come to us. Remember, ask and ye shall receive? It's true. Although God knows what we are going to ask for before we even ask, He will not just give it to us, until we ask that is.

Matthew 7:7-8 (KJV) - Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: 8 For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.

Matthew 21:22 (KJV) - And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.

Remember, if we forget to include God in our decisions, there is no way our decision will be the right one... But if we ask God to show us His path for us, we will receive His guidance and He shall grant us the peace of mind to know that we are making the right decision. Same goes for any other request we need - whether it be a job, a place to live, money to make ends meet, anything. If we ask, God shall provide.

Philippians 4:19 (KJV) - But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

Blessings in Christ,

Who Would You Die For?

This was a question asked of us at church on Sunday. Who would you die for? Your parents? Your children? Your friends? Your God? Anything else...?

This past Sunday at church was recognition of the local police officers. The service included thanking them for putting their life on the line for their community and for strangers, which is similar to what Jesus did when He died on the cross for us. One might say, well wait, He knows all of us; yes he does. But He died for those of us who hadn't come yet sot hat even now, 2010 years later, we can have eternal life. He knew who we were going to be and what we were going to do, but at that time, we were strangers to Him. Now we are part of His community though and He died for His community, for His followers; I am forever grateful for His actions and the unselfish love that God showed in giving His only son to die for us mortals who cannot control our sin.

John 15:13 (NKJV) "Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends."

That is such a great description of Christ's love for us. As well as the kind of love we need to have for others.

Blessings in Christ,

The Persecution of Christians

"Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution." - 2 Timothy 3:12 (NKJV)

This rings so true for me in my life right now. My mom and I had TWO converstaions this past weekend about my covering and dressing modestly. It appears that the more and more I am convicted that this is what the Lord wants for me to do, the more and more she is against it. It is not that I am wearing one more around the house, because I have done my best to be respectful of my parent's wishes and not wearing a covering in their house. I even told my mom that; that I am feeling torn between obeying their wishes for me not to wear a covering in the house and obeying the Lord. She turned right around saying "this is not about obeying the Lord, this is about YOU being different!" She believes that I am doing this because I am an "Amish wanna-be". I told her that I agreed with some of their beliefs, but I certainly do not believe with all of them and that if she wants to call me a wanna-be then so be it but my thoughts are my own, they are not "forced" upon me by anyone else.

Besides that, she also is firm in her belief that women were created to walk beside man because that's what "her" Bible says. Her Bible is NIV. She resents the fact that I have resorted to using my NKJV Bible after being raised with the NIV. I had to get my NKJV for a college course I took in the summer of 2006 and I didn't use it for a while, but then last January I started using it more and then switched to it completely by last May. I believe that we were created as a companion for man, but that God created man first for a reason. He is to be the "president" of the house and the wife is to be the "vice president". I like that analogy because it does not make it seem that the household is a dictatorship like some think of when thinking of submission, but rather it shows that it is a co-run house. Not many young women understand the concept of submission which does not surprise me at al. We have been raised in a feminist generation; raised to think that we are independent of all man and can do anything we want - ANYTHING.

How else are Christians persecuted in today's world? How are YOU persecuted?

Blessings in Christ,

Our Citizenship Belongs in Heaven

"For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Saivor, the Lord Jesus Christ" - Philippians 3:20 (NKJV)

"If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God" - Colossians 3:1-3 (NKJV)

These two scripture references I have much difficulty with. There's other scripture that I don't quite understand also, but for now I am focusing on these. I understand that our citizenship is in heaven, with our Father; but, what does that mean for us here on earth? I don't think that any country would allow anyone to withdraw their citizenship to remain citizenship-less... So how do we obey this? Some will argue that it means not getting involved with anything besides church activities here on earth. Others will say that there is no way to avoid being a citizen of some place on earth so why not get involved with as much as you can. Again, I go to the question of how far do you take a concept? I do not know, I struggle with this part.

The second scripture makes a little more sense to me because I can grasp the idea of not holding onto items here on earth. They certainly won't help me in heaven. But what all does this mean that I should avoid? Or does this simply mean that I should not told tight to those things on earth and truly reach for the wonderful things that await me in heaven? I have no answers for myself on this.

How do you separate yourself from the world? How do you establish your citizenship in heaven and not here on earth? How do you seek things from heaven while still here on earth?

So much to meditate on.

Blessings in Christ,

He Strengthens Me!!

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." - Philippinas 4:13 (NKJV)

This is such an awesome reminder to me about how I need to give everything to the Lord. If I do not give everything to the Lord, how can He strengthen me?

How does the Lord strengthen me? Well He certainly gives me courage to stand up for my beliefs when they are challenged, He gives me the strength to do my daily tasks, He gives me the emotional strength to be there for friends who need me, He gives me the wisdom to know what to say and when to say it, He gives me the knowledge to know what is right and wrong, amongst many other things. Everything I do, I do because He gave me the strength!

It still amazes me that God really does have enough love to love each and every person on this earth as His own! I know that may sound odd since I have been a Christian since a young age, but I still cannot grasp the amount of love that the Lord Jesus has!

Blessings in Christ,