tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90746436707361180002024-03-06T01:54:25.118-05:00GuldkantVarje moln har en guldkant. Every cloud has a gold lining.Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05094522949598302175noreply@blogger.comBlogger179125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074643670736118000.post-9722150813352856502020-02-19T11:23:00.001-05:002020-02-19T11:23:23.875-05:00Clock Tower Vision<div style="text-align: justify;">
Stephen and I just spent a lovely weekend exploring Ithaca, and although there were many great moments during the trip, the highlight for me was by far our visit to the McGraw Clock Tower at Cornell for a chimes concert. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Music gets to me. Music makes me cry. And to be so close to the bells that you could feel them inside you, to overlook the city at sunset - it was spiritual, it was soulful, it was symbolic. It was so meaningful that it is hard to find the right words, but I must at least try. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7YZUUXSQ3TKLYb1KvNp7ED0Jz0P5srVnBfnJfruyCi0lIatv3WzgzdLqmPVCqcgmmyVW_5eIbMey-chLlGVwRhaMCIIKPWo-0zX5CKpxMIQNUVSgrep_0-QfHYIwkGs0fvU79FSy2zJg/s1600/IMG_2496.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7YZUUXSQ3TKLYb1KvNp7ED0Jz0P5srVnBfnJfruyCi0lIatv3WzgzdLqmPVCqcgmmyVW_5eIbMey-chLlGVwRhaMCIIKPWo-0zX5CKpxMIQNUVSgrep_0-QfHYIwkGs0fvU79FSy2zJg/s320/IMG_2496.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Imagine with me that your life has recently felt like you were trapped in a maze of crowded buildings. You know where you want to end up, but you can't actually see it, and you have no idea how to get there. You're pretty sure you've taken a few wrong turns, and you've definitely ended up on several dead-end alleys. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Then, suddenly, you find yourself on top of a clock tower, while the chimes play Be Thou My Vision. You can look out on top of all those buildings which previously blocked your view, and see exactly what streets you need to travel, and even why you had to travel down some pretty sketchy roads to get where you are. As the sun sets, you know with certainty that the Lord is your vision, that He is working, and that sometime, you will see His work. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And yet, it wasn't suddenly, in either the imaginary life or the real world. I couldn't sit on the streets and cry ugly tears and bemoan my lot in life; I had to go to the tower. And even once at the tower, even once filled with the hope and peace of knowing that God's vision was coming, I still had to climb the stairs - all 160 of them, through a tiny, claustrophobic building with only small slit windows to see outside. The climbing was hard - heart pounding. But it was so worth it. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGunPTE2WSewvB89TpUEQJ57i05UKhGqxlX4ZHQzb1Q9z0jVj05LQDP10Aq9WjeoGy47bjs3yn4sPF03AOySOhCFRyzaVfn6BjhIuIHw5ySyXnAo1MmMuL0vL9q5z9P6tFeiNPuCJS5B4/s1600/IMG_2495.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGunPTE2WSewvB89TpUEQJ57i05UKhGqxlX4ZHQzb1Q9z0jVj05LQDP10Aq9WjeoGy47bjs3yn4sPF03AOySOhCFRyzaVfn6BjhIuIHw5ySyXnAo1MmMuL0vL9q5z9P6tFeiNPuCJS5B4/s320/IMG_2495.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I can't even describe the breath-taking beauty of the moment. I already have this great urge, this wild desire to run back up the tower, to be among the bells and the birds. While I was up there, I just knew - I could see. God is at work and I can trust His guiding and often ugly streets lead to beautiful places.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But, you know, you can't build your home on top of a clock tower. We live down on the ground, among the confusion and concrete and chaos. Even as I felt the music moving through me, I knew that in a few short moments I would have to climb down, down to the crowded streets. It saddened me and made me wish I could stay up there forever. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But clock tower chimes don't last forever. The music ends, the sun sets, and the night wind comes biting in. It is better to live in a warm, grounded home, after all. The vision doesn't have to end there, though. I can take the clarity and peace I found up high back into the maze of streets, hoping and knowing that someday there will be another clock tower, and that God will be my vision until then. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dz3K3ZIedYU03hV42r2tWEDAwigb-dUk5NRg2CjzRvHY-1havYUW6AlBx2R2Wf2Ug9luUy8nilddl1KXrmx0g' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05094522949598302175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074643670736118000.post-53443450361575883252019-10-22T10:23:00.001-04:002019-10-22T21:29:19.041-04:00Physical Healing.......Or Not<div style="text-align: justify;">
Healing - this is such a difficult topic, even and especially among followers of Christ. And let me be clear, I am speaking specifically about <i>physical</i> healing.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-MgzbX4_ZAmDrYuYIwUyv9vAbqsSNXD04b0s20MmFXciE8XPqSd61SHYfSLNLUplToT1Zl6ftODOA8IhblDMZS9EZ9IvJnTMcU_oZQDSxVtGvF5Y0G44pvMe1GhOO6Vo6G7bdjk5rnzU/s1600/CA413930-DD15-442B-B5FC-5A940AB93F2E.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="648" data-original-width="1155" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-MgzbX4_ZAmDrYuYIwUyv9vAbqsSNXD04b0s20MmFXciE8XPqSd61SHYfSLNLUplToT1Zl6ftODOA8IhblDMZS9EZ9IvJnTMcU_oZQDSxVtGvF5Y0G44pvMe1GhOO6Vo6G7bdjk5rnzU/s320/CA413930-DD15-442B-B5FC-5A940AB93F2E.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It seems to me that there are two extreme camps in Christian healing doctrine. One camp says that we shouldn't even pray for healing, because whatever God allows in our life is part of His will, and if He wanted us healthy, He would heal us. The other says that everyone can get healed if only they pray or believe or have faith in the proper way. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And then there are a whole bunch of people awkwardly sitting in the middle of the camps; people who don't believe that God will always heal if you just have "enough faith", but who also do pray for God to heal, and yet can't give much of an answer about why some people are healed and why some are not. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I was one of those awkwardly-in-the-middle people for most of my life. And I was pretty comfortable there, not really needing an answer to my questions. That is, until I was suddenly faced with chronic sickness. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've been dealing with <i>something</i> for five years now, and neither I nor any doctors have found an answer or a cure. A few months ago, in preparation for a doctor's appointment, I wrote down every symptom that I deal with and there were nearly 30 items on the list. Let me tell you, poor health is one of the most discouraging things, especially for someone whose entire self-worth is wrapped up in the accomplishment of her lengthy to-do list (and that's a whole other topic of discussion). </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This year, the questions about healing grew louder in my mind, and sitting in the middle of the camps felt increasingly awkward. However, neither camp made sense to me, and I have a very difficult time accepting things that don't make logical sense to me.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The one extreme, that illness is part of God's will and we shouldn't try to change it, makes it seem as though God doesn't care, that He is aloof and impersonal. Maybe He is doing what's best for us eternally, but He couldn't care less about any pain or hurt that we feel on this Earth and we shouldn't even bother asking for help. Yikes....why would I want to follow, obey, and love a Father who doesn't care?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The other extreme, that God will heal if you have enough faith, makes it seem as though it's MY fault that I'm ill. What am I doing wrong? Why don't I have enough faith and how do I get enough faith? Why am I not worthy of a healing? </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And so, I studied Scripture to see if I could find an answer. What I found was hard to swallow, but life-changing. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I found that on the whole, when healing is mentioned in the Bible, it is in relation to healing our hearts and souls, healing from the disease of sin. </div>
<ul style="text-align: justify;">
<li>Psalm 30:2 - David is rejoicing that God game him victory of his enemies, that God saved his soul, and at God's favor. </li>
<li>Psalm 41:4 - David is asking for is soul to be healed.</li>
<li>Psalm 103:3 - David is speaking to his soul; he talks about the forgiveness of sin and redemption of his life; he is saying that God heals his soul's diseases. </li>
<li>Psalm 107:20 - When someone gets into trouble through their own disobedience, but then repents and cries out to God for help, God will save and heal them from their troubles. </li>
<li>Psalm 147:3 - God heals broken hearts.</li>
<li>Isaiah 30:26 - God will heal the Israelites when they get rid of false idols and return to Him.</li>
<li>Isaiah 53:5 - Healing from transgression and iniquities. </li>
<li>Isaiah 61:6 - Healing a broken heart.</li>
<li>Jeremiah 3:22 - Healing from backsliding.</li>
<li>Jeremiah 17:14 - The surrounding verses talk about the heart, and those that forsake God.</li>
<li>Jeremiah 30:17 - Healing (restoring) the Israelites after captivity. </li>
<li>Matthew 13:15 - Jesus says that the people eyes and ear have been shut, so that they cannot turn to Him, repent, and be spiritually healed. </li>
<li>James 5:16 - Healing from faults.</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But, you say, Jesus physically healed so many people in the New Testament! True; but what typically follows directly after the healing? The person believing that Jesus is the Christ, or an increase in their faith, or them following Him. Jesus chose to heal them physically because it was the best way to heal them spiritually. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
From my studying, I've come to believe that God is far more interested in healing us spiritually than physically. That makes sense to me, because our bodies are only here on this earth, but our souls are for eternity. It's far more important that our souls are healthy than our bodies. This doesn't mean that God doesn't care about our suffering, though. The Bible DOES speak many times about His peace and comfort being with us through the pain.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Paul is a great example of this. In 2 Corinthians 12:7-10, we see that he prayed for healing, but God chose not to, because He knew that the best way to heal Paul spiritually was through a physical ailment. Once Paul accepted this, he rejoiced in his illness because he knew that it was bringing him closer to God. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
At first, this was very hard for me to deal with, that maybe physical healing will never come to me on this earth. But, ultimately, it helps me to reconcile the two camps and find great peace. Yes, God can and does heal on this earth - but if He doesn't heal me, it's not because I'm not good enough or not faithful enough. Yes, I can pray for physical healing, because God does care; but more importantly, I should pray for spiritual healing, know that God will comfort my heart and mind even in the midst of illness. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Two books that have really helped me understand this better are <i>Cultivate What Matters</i> by Lara Casey, and <i>The Problem of Pain</i> by C.S. Lewis. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In <i>Cultivate</i>, Lara uses a garden allegory to deal with lies that we believe about ourselves and our lives. This picture of our lives as a garden really hit home to me. I suddenly realized one day that good health and bad health are just plants in the garden. Bad health may be considered a weed, but hey, so are dandelions, and I love dandelions. Marriage, a job, a comfortable income, or any other life circumstance is just a plant. The more lasting part of the garden is the soil, which is our heart and our soul. Joy, peace, patience - those are all nutrients that need to be in our soil in order for good things to grow, and I believe that God is more concerned with healing our soil than with getting rid of the weeds. We can let the weeds take over our garden and choke out anything else that wants to grow. Or, we can let the weeds be tilled up into our soil, where they will provide nutrients to other plants. And maybe, someday, we can even consider our weeds to be beautiful flowers. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>The Problem of Pain</i> was another eye-opener for me. I learned so much from that book, but one of the main ideas that stuck with me is that God is the greatest Good that there is. I may feel like good health is the greatest good He could give me, but God knows better. God desires our hearts to be wholly His, and He desires that our hearts would want Him more than anything else. He can and does use the pain in our lives to bring our hearts to Him, and to give our hearts the greatest Good, Himself. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Knowing all of this has certainly not gotten rid of all my discouragement. In fact, I am re-studying and writing this as a good reminder to myself after several days of deep discouragement. However, I have found great peace this year in knowing these truths. Instead of constantly asking for a physical healing which may never come, I choose to ask more frequently for spiritual healing, something which I know God will delightedly do. </div>
Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05094522949598302175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074643670736118000.post-57141567304933707532019-05-01T19:03:00.000-04:002019-05-01T19:03:18.009-04:00My Easter Dress and Thoughts on Hobbies<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sew. Let's be honest for a minute. My generation is really awesome in that we're passionate about making a living doing things we love. If you've got to deal with the stress of work either way, why not make sure it's something you'll really love most of the time?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
However, the downside to this is that it really drains the hobbies out of our lives. When everything that you enjoy has to make you money, you stop doing it simply for the enjoyment. Older generations understood that "work is work, and play is play"; "work hard, play hard"! But my generation, by trying to make our work always feel like play, have instead lost the true benefit of play. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sewing has been a hobby of mine for at least half my life now, but over the last year or so I was feeling <i>burnt out</i>. Not getting any enjoyment out of sewing, and wondering what was wrong with me. Truthfully, I blame it on three things. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
First, fit issues. I'm really particular about how my clothes fit and feel, and for a while I couldn't make anything fit properly; that combined with a body changing due to health issues had me really down-in-the-dumps about doing any personal sewing. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Second, limited range of projects. The majority of what I was sewing was historical items. Yes, I adore historical costuming, but <i>man</i>, sometimes it's really refreshing to make whatever item you want out of whatever fabric you want, without having to worry that a dozen stitch-nazis will pounce on you if you do it wrong and don't have a dissertation's worth of primary sources to prove you right. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Lastly, the fact that sewing is now my business. Don't get me wrong; I enjoy sewing for other people, and I am incredibly humbled and grateful that people are willing to purchase my imperfect creations and wear them in public. But sewing stopped being something I did simply for fun, and became entirely related to output. How much could I get done in how little time, while still making sure every detail was perfect so no customer was unhappy? Yikes. Talk about a kill-joy. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
All of a sudden, it clicked in March, while I was listening to a delightful and amazing podcast called <a href="http://lovetosewpodcast.com/" target="_blank">Love To Sew</a>. In the first two episodes I listened to, the interviewees talked about how they sew simply because they enjoy the process of sewing. Yes, it's nice to have a finished garment to wear, and yes, it's nice if it fits well and you love it. But in the end, did you enjoy making it? Did you enjoy the way the fabric felt, or the way the collar seemed to magically go together, or the nicely finished details you created? That is why we sew. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Think of it like cooking. There are people who cook simply because they must eat; they are equally as satisfied by sticking frozen chicken-fingers in the oven as they are by following a recipe to cook from scratch. And then there are people who cook because they love the process. Frozen meals are so unsatisfying, because they want to see the colorful veggies on their cutting board as they dice them with a sharp knife, and hear the sizzling while sauteing, and wait patiently for the bread to get just the perfect brown on it. Of course it's great that they get to eat when they're done, but the cooking was equally as great. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And that's what I realized: I don't want to sew just to create things. I want to sew because I enjoy the process of sewing. Since then, I have re-started sewing as a way to relax in the evening, embraced my love of hand sewing, and feel inspired to learn the nitty-gritty of garment fitting so that I can make things I really want to wear. I've been amazed at the ways that skills from historic sewing are just as helpful in modern sewing. And now I want to sew All. The. Things. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
All that rambling to say - my Easter dress! This is one of the first creations to come out of my sewing epiphany, and I truly love it. It started out as a wild 1970's outfit that was just a bit too much; the whole tunic and maxi skirt thing - I couldn't bring myself to wear it. But that fabric! Silky, and colorful, and oh so floral!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0NuOwi8bAwugWd6FDHI-IzYCrtQkgwZ4MFAhN_EO3CrT50kw_2jReFxvLAxas9kXXnTorm61BBd71PEv3hJ35dSNPlNf9Iwd77kdvlufLtSvFANoaKfvnb2MznLO4i6VzU8-oQwX1i1A/s1600/IMG_1575.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0NuOwi8bAwugWd6FDHI-IzYCrtQkgwZ4MFAhN_EO3CrT50kw_2jReFxvLAxas9kXXnTorm61BBd71PEv3hJ35dSNPlNf9Iwd77kdvlufLtSvFANoaKfvnb2MznLO4i6VzU8-oQwX1i1A/s400/IMG_1575.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
My original plan was to simply take in the tunic to fit me better, slightly alter the collar, and use the maxi skirt for something else entirely. But the more I thought about it, I realized that first, I didn't really like the shape of the tunic, and second, if I had a dress I was unlikely to ever make another garment out of the same fabric. So, if I had to take the tunic apart anyways to bring it in, why not really change it up? </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhowD_i1N7i0oSdWodoX_JEQYKNbHlwlP5LD9QFUzuQxFwu9P33hANuDmdfOzbUuBv3qbr8Zr7PsiOmtjnm_FsjI-Fa5zJAAsYsqTxwYGn_dfbM3QobaYhhamdx7hyh0LLZZY2FrJVWD00/s1600/EasterDress1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhowD_i1N7i0oSdWodoX_JEQYKNbHlwlP5LD9QFUzuQxFwu9P33hANuDmdfOzbUuBv3qbr8Zr7PsiOmtjnm_FsjI-Fa5zJAAsYsqTxwYGn_dfbM3QobaYhhamdx7hyh0LLZZY2FrJVWD00/s400/EasterDress1.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Skirt pleats.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I started by taking off the collar, sleeves, and zipper. Then, I cut the dress in half at the waistline. I cut two new skirt panels from the maxi skirt, and sewed those in between the two original skirt panels, to end up with a fuller, four-panel skirt. Then, I pleated that new skirt back onto the bodice. I then drastically cut down the neck and re-inserted the zipper (which, holy cow, was actually <i>fun</i> to sew by hand). Last, I was going to entirely change the sleeve shape, but ended up simply shortening them a bit; I really loved that the bell shape helped the dress retain a bit of its 70's vibe. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIVuxxYt8WCmc5UVkSKvwX7Hy4otPOH3J4r_eUOc2IA3AzT4L_ATY0QfFN0OBwqA10e39mogtf-nDEpvwnDnY5E_pj8_nghbvIwWPtImd4eDFW_TAJugTq_rxAdWQvzKBEVK6QIYDLsSo/s1600/EasterDress3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIVuxxYt8WCmc5UVkSKvwX7Hy4otPOH3J4r_eUOc2IA3AzT4L_ATY0QfFN0OBwqA10e39mogtf-nDEpvwnDnY5E_pj8_nghbvIwWPtImd4eDFW_TAJugTq_rxAdWQvzKBEVK6QIYDLsSo/s400/EasterDress3.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The lovely zipper placket. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I did all of this alteration by hand. It was so enjoyable to spend an evening or a weekend curled up under a fuzzy blanket, listening to podcasts, and feeling my needle slide through the silky fabric. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
One of the things I'm post proud of is that I took the time to finish all my inside seams. For most of the seams I folded the allowance in towards itself and whip-stitched the edges, but I also used a pretty green seam binding for the waistline and neckline. The inside of the dress is almost as pretty as the outside! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqCSo-ydiyhnXfCk4_gXkFSB4NJ7LkwAefUUbNcy7PC_2qeGZR57Nj_CJ39zroDx8_cdctYrt31rb7flkMzVyMacYAHYteIMb99EQUIk8NM9JWIaimNI9JwJSGZNKh3LzYnWTsBq5SJgs/s1600/EasterDress2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqCSo-ydiyhnXfCk4_gXkFSB4NJ7LkwAefUUbNcy7PC_2qeGZR57Nj_CJ39zroDx8_cdctYrt31rb7flkMzVyMacYAHYteIMb99EQUIk8NM9JWIaimNI9JwJSGZNKh3LzYnWTsBq5SJgs/s400/EasterDress2.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhArqKOp15SR6tPTEJowyHLZ6nN-GGCvoYVZ8FcH8CfXHqQKz5c_z-zwBPvhk9tD-wft0pQCbyLOcIrvy4ZEamWDFmMc0JwTYU0W4NZ6bCrD1padQ6179tATHPP7ci7sc4AjgN-wxLf6s8/s1600/EasterDress6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhArqKOp15SR6tPTEJowyHLZ6nN-GGCvoYVZ8FcH8CfXHqQKz5c_z-zwBPvhk9tD-wft0pQCbyLOcIrvy4ZEamWDFmMc0JwTYU0W4NZ6bCrD1padQ6179tATHPP7ci7sc4AjgN-wxLf6s8/s400/EasterDress6.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
These finishes mean so much to me because up until recently, I was too impatient to sew that way! I've always been a "good-enough" kind of person, and I'm certainly not a perfectionist now, but I've truly come to appreciate a well-made item that shows the maker spent a little extra time on it to get it just right. I'm so proud of how far I've come in my sewing practice!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIyWO9MzPvnak1-iXT8ozIB-biHpJ6iWg4bvaPjRZmF2g3XvObBkbvo86OFjKe2ptOsHzgb7BrC7tEo1jugivNdkMFjohCIRCC8TiGva2XutJrmJ1hJHzwgC0ctHMTxeol9okskjeBPUo/s1600/EasterDress5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIyWO9MzPvnak1-iXT8ozIB-biHpJ6iWg4bvaPjRZmF2g3XvObBkbvo86OFjKe2ptOsHzgb7BrC7tEo1jugivNdkMFjohCIRCC8TiGva2XutJrmJ1hJHzwgC0ctHMTxeol9okskjeBPUo/s400/EasterDress5.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixVXIaEcrnT9sq4rgNlUg2QNMXjsojNPM9-OUJcsklEJUubtEoAvp2w8tbjtvdZJ0kaGk59FUFTIb4W-0K3BAWeWfCh2jKqD4QN1TOSz8ooixFZ6H29IP1IoBFubrRTi4ca4WxTYtF0OA/s1600/EasterDress4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixVXIaEcrnT9sq4rgNlUg2QNMXjsojNPM9-OUJcsklEJUubtEoAvp2w8tbjtvdZJ0kaGk59FUFTIb4W-0K3BAWeWfCh2jKqD4QN1TOSz8ooixFZ6H29IP1IoBFubrRTi4ca4WxTYtF0OA/s400/EasterDress4.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This dress definitely taught me that I still have a lot to learn. It fit a lot more comfortably before the sleeves were put back on, and why do I always get a weird little gap at the front of my dress whenever I do an open neckline? But, it's still a garment that fits well and that I love to wear, especially because wearing it reminds me of the joy of <i>making</i> it!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi69pqpPo0Fw7tzs-qD1PXyLHz8TsgPTooviwtOC1PAbph56L_-OvinD91ujF4pyxekFKKZfY7PZUlv5AV5Xh0oyzh-rSQekETbFqpEzm-EYH6FBtG7CLEMulsLOI_RP4N5PbpCEIOd9Oo/s1600/EasterDress7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi69pqpPo0Fw7tzs-qD1PXyLHz8TsgPTooviwtOC1PAbph56L_-OvinD91ujF4pyxekFKKZfY7PZUlv5AV5Xh0oyzh-rSQekETbFqpEzm-EYH6FBtG7CLEMulsLOI_RP4N5PbpCEIOd9Oo/s400/EasterDress7.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sew. If you've made it all the way to here, thank you. I hope, if nothing else, this inspires you to go do something you love, simply for the enjoyment of doing it!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim6kYQqWp_qifGy4C4l7mdb8XNTVt0-n1vn8XoJegVeKfduT7YXr5yb9Q-kbUeBZYYxOn2j9XPVOPz15tJbMQvTLoYAu4Eq3TwsPQzkooR7a9S1Lc-e-yABYsuBDiijlisAYTtVDSNRww/s1600/IMG_1700.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim6kYQqWp_qifGy4C4l7mdb8XNTVt0-n1vn8XoJegVeKfduT7YXr5yb9Q-kbUeBZYYxOn2j9XPVOPz15tJbMQvTLoYAu4Eq3TwsPQzkooR7a9S1Lc-e-yABYsuBDiijlisAYTtVDSNRww/s400/IMG_1700.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05094522949598302175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074643670736118000.post-29035998334109500122019-03-02T08:59:00.001-05:002019-03-02T08:59:45.175-05:00This Is Only A Season<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj46Byw6rH2iaDm5IZcQt3NqrVgtfHWOMJ1w043e0hMKGtbxfBaSM_UVcml_yMuRQ-qYub_tCPknM4TJJn2Ep2DNo5BSx4gQrXlUwUF1DGbkNjySqXZjSfwMZDzl9RHQtrCBF3tYiI9-mA/s1600/IMG_1482.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj46Byw6rH2iaDm5IZcQt3NqrVgtfHWOMJ1w043e0hMKGtbxfBaSM_UVcml_yMuRQ-qYub_tCPknM4TJJn2Ep2DNo5BSx4gQrXlUwUF1DGbkNjySqXZjSfwMZDzl9RHQtrCBF3tYiI9-mA/s400/IMG_1482.JPG" width="400" /></a> </div>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<i>In the last dark
days of winter</i></div>
<i>
</i>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<i>When another
storm comes ‘round</i></div>
<i>
</i>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<i>When all is dead
and frozen</i></div>
<i>
</i>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<i>And snow fall
covers the ground</i></div>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjznYfipOV01tJhliCG206UJdJaxYanXwp7zCOccSeF3s-oih3GMnmSixp45IGNvRO9lQmeCyrclJcM3w7oagL_x2uLuZuZnzaswaXVB91QWd_ABLrRwdemCVhCIr0oe5LxBTlR0hOxxEE/s1600/IMG_1478.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjznYfipOV01tJhliCG206UJdJaxYanXwp7zCOccSeF3s-oih3GMnmSixp45IGNvRO9lQmeCyrclJcM3w7oagL_x2uLuZuZnzaswaXVB91QWd_ABLrRwdemCVhCIr0oe5LxBTlR0hOxxEE/s400/IMG_1478.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<i>It’s days like
these that remind us</i></div>
<i>
</i>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<i>That life will
spring anew</i></div>
<i>
</i>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<i>The sun, it warms
and cheers us</i></div>
<i>
</i>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<i>Knowing the cold
days are few</i></div>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJZhl_s5X6xObz5zcd_2nnGmZpLiEAfaeDjAzrTCWyOQVg-btzMSZb4RExEca04MERbIu5wMM8BWUtTLwohvcCCnkmax8zE8477xohIL1eWdbgnnsDO4lVS2kqklDzQW50gA1oUJdeTJI/s1600/IMG_1479.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJZhl_s5X6xObz5zcd_2nnGmZpLiEAfaeDjAzrTCWyOQVg-btzMSZb4RExEca04MERbIu5wMM8BWUtTLwohvcCCnkmax8zE8477xohIL1eWdbgnnsDO4lVS2kqklDzQW50gA1oUJdeTJI/s400/IMG_1479.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<i>We do not doubt
or worry</i></div>
<i>
</i>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<i>That spring will
come at last</i></div>
<i>
</i>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<i>We simply wait
with excitement</i></div>
<i>
</i>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<i>Till these wintry
days are past</i></div>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<i> </i><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwph-_fDh9_T6QRvepKgehDwHiej9ghXI_es1mtXpWTuxlcsCD_RQpuEOHwrmwV7yORY5OQTWKZ7oLwttAPJUFaXu4bWqwUenGnq6xl30H_boaFVakSYSUH-4YJAcyqHpq8zth2T9OK_I/s400/IMG_1485.JPG" width="400" /></div>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<i>So why in life is
it easy</i></div>
<i>
</i>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<i>To forget this
lesson of seasons</i></div>
<i>
</i>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<i>We think we’ll
be stuck here forever</i></div>
<i>
</i>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<i>And needlessly
fret without reasons</i></div>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYpCFresmQRMmz7VETa1nuQ-286169xJU4dV4Skk8aoYO9h7P10ENwgsOyTfOh3iRVtGZn7UnwWbVtq2vf60Ah8L85jY4MdcCcXyCrwglD9isVB9eSUkMdRX_ry9uKDRQ0JtLdC6CBQfc/s1600/IMG_1488.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYpCFresmQRMmz7VETa1nuQ-286169xJU4dV4Skk8aoYO9h7P10ENwgsOyTfOh3iRVtGZn7UnwWbVtq2vf60Ah8L85jY4MdcCcXyCrwglD9isVB9eSUkMdRX_ry9uKDRQ0JtLdC6CBQfc/s400/IMG_1488.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<i>Yet God is still
working the while</i></div>
<i>
</i>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<i>He has not
abandoned us here</i></div>
<i>
</i>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<i>Winter will
spring into summer</i></div>
<i>
</i>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<i>And all the time
He is near</i></div>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqhUpBeMawiwMncSVwhU5bm0zWXHCjnpWFuRg6iB6pnKxT4yUKyMyYIKfaMDVzDVt8s53TqOCP2yfiHfn8y6y7m5OUtJIte9hVNAGpzSl-aqjyt6gYpGw6wkGZFKQoUcyAfnIA-vc3Qjw/s1600/IMG_1491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqhUpBeMawiwMncSVwhU5bm0zWXHCjnpWFuRg6iB6pnKxT4yUKyMyYIKfaMDVzDVt8s53TqOCP2yfiHfn8y6y7m5OUtJIte9hVNAGpzSl-aqjyt6gYpGw6wkGZFKQoUcyAfnIA-vc3Qjw/s400/IMG_1491.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i>
</div>
<i>
</i>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<i>So let’s hope
for a warmer tomorrow</i></div>
<i>
</i>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<i>As the sun shines
on our face</i></div>
<i>
</i>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<i>But even so, just
remember</i></div>
<i>
</i>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<i>Today is a
pleasant place</i></div>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhED0KyJhc3TyJF0sfaJOi3k81i3Av8E26ckAhG-TsrkTZb7ESykMfX7ST6ulfKPTiPCAx6OPnekghJXRxezGOLvS-LBV7_6E5Jfk-XZ7PUPYQGl8wpR4Cih0i06NTum3H0Licl79MX6UI/s1600/IMG_1492.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhED0KyJhc3TyJF0sfaJOi3k81i3Av8E26ckAhG-TsrkTZb7ESykMfX7ST6ulfKPTiPCAx6OPnekghJXRxezGOLvS-LBV7_6E5Jfk-XZ7PUPYQGl8wpR4Cih0i06NTum3H0Licl79MX6UI/s400/IMG_1492.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.11in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<style type="text/css">p { margin-bottom: 0.1in; direction: ltr; line-height: 115%; text-align: left; }</style></div>
Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05094522949598302175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074643670736118000.post-55311670885212934932019-02-04T15:01:00.001-05:002019-02-04T15:01:43.075-05:00What I'm Learning About Trust<div style="text-align: justify;">
Trust is a funny thing, isn't it? It's this grand idea floating around in our heads and a perfect word to use in profound platitudes and motivational memes, but it is incredibly hard to figure out in *real life*. And for me, trust is <b><u>terrifying</u></b>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've known for a very long time that trust and fear were two of my biggest challenges in life, but I had never taken the time or had the clarity to figure out *why* they were so difficult. This year, thanks to my PowerSheets and God's revelation, I was able to pinpoint it and put it into words.</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzvk1Z9XNBqbeMszs90nMzb-2xk_m5w6fV2ylCslYdCWoCgs6vCNK-dDI0PGRJCL8qWGn60yg1VDFrANlZQ4orbQq6RZkMfqexuEIKvz8AH-u2eiwn_TuweBaHK6PfCYFeWB7eOYmKpik/s1600/FullSizeRender%25281%2529.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzvk1Z9XNBqbeMszs90nMzb-2xk_m5w6fV2ylCslYdCWoCgs6vCNK-dDI0PGRJCL8qWGn60yg1VDFrANlZQ4orbQq6RZkMfqexuEIKvz8AH-u2eiwn_TuweBaHK6PfCYFeWB7eOYmKpik/s400/FullSizeRender%25281%2529.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>I am afraid of trusting other people and God because if I let go of control, they may not make choices that I hope/plan/expect, and their decisions may affect me negatively.</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Wow. Even as I wrote this I cringed over my own need for "control". But, there it was; the truth about my fears. Yes, my trust issues really affect all my relationships, including with God.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
You see, people always like to say things such as,</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
"Don't be afraid of that, just trust God!"</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
"Trust God and He'll protect you."</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
"Trust God and everything will be okay."</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Yet that doesn't seem true. God doesn't always protect you from pain. He doesn't always stop bad things from happening. He doesn't always get rid of the difficulty.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Which really is okay. It's not that I expect my life to be cushy, perfect, and pain free just because I'm a Christian. I know that's not promised to us, and in fact I know that God can use the pain and imperfection to make us more like Him. What I struggled with was this: if God isn't going to keep bad things from happening, then *what* am I supposed to trust Him *for*?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Well, in a moment of great frustration and confusion, God graciously led me to read Psalm 56, and verse 11 stood out to me as if it had turned into 3D and jumped off the page.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i>
<i>"In God have I put my trust; I will not be afraid of what man can do to me."</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's so simple, isn't it? I honestly felt like smacking my forehead and saying, "Duh, Allison, why haven't you figured this out before now?" Well, God used so many challenging circumstances from last year to bring me to a point of understanding this verse for what felt like the first time.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i> </i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This is verse is not saying, "I won't be afraid of bad things, because I trust God will stop them." Rather, "Yes, bad things WILL happen; but, I won't be afraid of the bad things happening, because I trust that God will give me His grace and strength in the midst of that bad thing." Wow; as soon as I was able to accept that the bad things would happen, I was able to begin moving past my fear of them.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i></i><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
You know what's so cool about many of the verses that talk about trusting God, especially in Psalms? They're in reference to battles. God is referred to as a shield, a fortress, a strong tower, a place of refuge and rest (Psalm 33:19-22; Psalm 144:2-4; Proverbs 18:10-11). You know something else? Shield are useless if you're sitting safely at home in your fuzzy pajamas, drinking hot chocolate. A shield is only worth something when you're in the battle, arrows flying and swords slashing.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I find this so encouraging because life often feels like a battle to me. A battle against my own flesh and sinful tendencies, against fear, discouragement, jealousy, discontentment, selfishness, and so much more. And that's OKAY! The battle WILL happen, but God is my shield!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I believe that a vivid imagination is a gift from God, and it has certainly helped me to understand this idea more clearly. I imagine myself as a warrior in the middle of a heated battled. I imagine that standing on a battlefield with just a shield to protect you from arrows flying all around is not very comfortable, even if none of the arrows hit you. I imagine that defending a fortress is hard, sweaty, tiresome work, even if the enemy never breaks through the gate or scales the wall. I imagine that retreating from the front lines back to a place of safety and rest requires a lot of alertness and some skillful maneuvering.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I guess what I'm getting at is that not only will the battle happen, but it may not be comfortable. The bad things will come, and even if we *are* trusting God, it may still hurt and feel really hard. But that doesn't mean trusting God is not working or not worth it. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Let me tell you, this truth has revolutionized my year, and it's only February 4th! Because I can accept that bad things will happen and that people may make choices that I don't want or that affect me negatively, I can use the shield of trust as it's meant to be used. Ultimately, my trust is in God, to be my provider, my friend, my encouragement, my help, my strength, so I no longer have to fear that other people won't be those things for me. Trusting God first and foremost has freed me to trust other people more willingly, because I know God's grace and strength will be there even if those people disappoint me. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
One of the ways this has been most apparent to me this month is in finances. When "they" say that finances are one of the biggest causes of conflict in marriage, "they" weren't kidding. When two people who have different views on how money should be handled suddenly have to share their money, there's bound to be issues. Now, I'm incredibly thankful that Stephen and I have been able to communicate well and work through these things, but we are still different people with different opinions. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I am so blessed and amazed by how much peace I felt about our finances in January, one of our lowest-income months, and truly trusting God has made all the difference! Normally, I would have seriously stressed about not having enough money for bills, and freaked out any time Stephen made a choice with our money that I wouldn't have, and even foolishly felt like Stephen didn't really care about us or our financial future. Instead, I have been grateful to have enough money to pay the bills, and have seen the reasoning and careful thought Stephen puts into his choices, and felt confident that Stephen does care about us and our money. Has it been a perfect month? No. Have I still felt the fear and worry at times? Yes. Have I spent a lot of time in prayer over it? Yes. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And that is exactly the point. Finances and bills and money issues *will* always be there. But God will also always be there, shielding me with His grace. He is my provider, even if I do have to walk through a bad or difficult time in our finances. And I am SO grateful for that. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Truthfully, even writing this post is requiring me to face fears and practice trust. Trusting that my worth is found in God, even if this causes someone to have a lessor opinion of me. Trusting that I have something valuable to say, that God can use my experiences and my imperfect words to encourage others. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And I hope that's what this does for you. I am excited (and kind of terrified =P ) to continue learning about trust this year; I know that it will require me to walk through many more challenges, that I have certainly not figured it all out yet, and that it is only by God's grace I have learned as much as I have. But I hope this helps you to practice trusting God through whatever difficult circumstance you're dealing with, and that we can encourage each other even as we stand in the midst of the battle.</div>
Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05094522949598302175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074643670736118000.post-6535751010114931972018-11-30T06:00:00.000-05:002018-11-30T06:00:03.015-05:00Dear Liesel Marie<div style="text-align: justify;">
Dear Liesel Marie, </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Happy Due Date, my darling. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Part of me can't believe that you are not inside me and I will never hold you in my arms. The other part of me can't imagine what it would be like to have a tiny infant right now, to be responsible for raising a little human. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But let me back up and tell you how I got to this point. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
You came to us on April 1st of this year; at least, that's when we found out about you. The awkward mix this year of Easter and April Fool's day seems appropriate for how we felt - was this a bad prank or a gift of new life?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The weeks leading up to that pregnancy test were full of health issues, car issues, busyness at work, and suppressing panic at the thought of being pregnant. Truthfully, we were trying <u>not</u> to have kids; but, no method of birth control is 100% effective, and so you came. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I'll be honest - as soon as I saw that positive sign on the pregnancy test, I felt a huge weight of fear fall on me. "We're not ready yet!" kept pounding through my head. As your dad and I sat on the couch overcome by shock and fear, I thought, "This isn't how it's supposed to be!" The arrival of our first child should be a time full of joy and excitement, not tears and uncertainty. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
That first day or two were really difficult for both of us. My mind kept running in circles, trying to process this new life. How was this going to work out? We didn't have enough money, I was working three jobs, our apartment was really tiny, we weren't ready yet! I was afraid of others finding out; it was as if I could hear their voices loud and clear - </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
"How could you make such a stupid mistake?"</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
"There is such a thing as birth control, you know."</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
"You guys aren't prepared for this!"</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
"You've only been married 7 months!"</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Abortion was <u>never</u> an option for us, but I'll admit that I can now understand why to some, it might<b> </b><u>seem</u> like a good option at the time. I am SO thankful for the way that your dad and I came together during this time, and for the support of my sister as I shared all my fears and doubts with her. But, if a woman is faced with a surprise pregnancy, and her family won't support her, or her boyfriend is angry about it, or she's working several jobs just to make ends meet, I can better understand how our minds would make it <u>feel</u> like the best option is to just get rid of the "problem" and make everything go back to normal. But, it makes me so sad that any woman would ever choose that option. So, thank you for helping me to learn a new compassion and grace for others. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Well, as the week went on and we talked about you, and prayed about you, and our minds settled, we grew more and more excited. Yes, it was still kind of scary, but somehow we'd work it out and make it through, and, we had a <u>child</u>!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
All along, I had been having odd cramps and back pain, along with other symptoms. That week, Friday afternoon, something changed. I remember thinking, "Oh, I feel normal again!" I still think with regret about how it seemed like a good thing to me at the time, but I couldn't have known. That night, I had the worst back pain I can ever remember, and the next day, Saturday, April 7th, we lost you. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's ironic - they say you don't know what you've got til it's gone. That was certainly true with you. Although my excitement had been growing over the week, it wasn't until the moment I saw the blood and felt what was happening that I truly knew just how much I wanted you. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Miscarriages are cruel. It's the worst period, worst flu, and worst emotional trauma you've ever had, all rolled into one terrible bundle. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The next few weeks were some of the most difficult I've ever experienced. I felt so guilty - what if it was my fault? Is it because I didn't want you at first? Is there something I did wrong to cause it? My body must be screwed up. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I felt angry at God. Why did You allow this? Where are You? I felt like a little child, sitting on the floor and building a block tower. Just one week ago, God had come along and knocked down my tower with the news of a baby. And then, just as I had picked up the spilled blocks and starting building again, He came over and knocked the tower down all over again. Like a little child, I was sitting on the floor crying, angry, confused, and surrounded by mess. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It took a while. It took lots of ugly cries, and lots of shouting at God, and lots of reading Scripture, and lots of declaring the truth even when it seemed false. But eventually, things changed. Something a dear lady at church shared was the turning point for me. She showed a video of a little girl throwing her arms into the air and shouting "Daddy!" with such joy. She used this as an illustration for worship, and talked about how some of the times she needed to worship God the most were the times when she felt like it the least. I realized that like the child on the floor, surrounded by mess and confusion and tears, if I would just throw my arms up and say "Daddy, hold me!" that He was waiting to pick me up, hold me tight, wipe away my tears, and show me <u>His</u> plan. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
That was the first time I truly surrendered you to God, and let me say, He showed up. I experienced Him in a way that was so much more real than I ever could have imagined. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Over the next several months, I continued to heal. I am so thankful for the way God used you in my life, and in my relationship with your dad, and how He taught me new grace, new compassion, and a new reliance on Him. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A month or two after, we decided that we wanted to name you. Your dad and I wanted to celebrate your life, not just remember the loss. After much searching on my part, your name came together in a more perfect way than I could have planned. The name Liesel Marie means "In the pain of this wished for child, God has been my satisfaction." It truly sums up that time.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Every month, when my cycle came around, I would relive the loss, guilt, and pain. It gave me a new burden for women who want to or have chosen abortion. <u>I</u> was feeling so hurt and guilty about something which I had no control over; I couldn't even imagine what those women must feel knowing that they choose to kill their child. So again, thank you for teaching me that compassion.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This month, the month you would have been born, has been especially difficult. Many times, I have literally felt empty inside, like there's a hole in me. Once again, I have had to surrender you to God, being thankful that you are with Him, and trusting in His plan. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As I look back over the last nine months, I am incredibly humbled and grateful for the ways in which your unexpected life and loss have allowed me to connect with, encourage, and be encouraged by other women. I pray that I can continue to reach others and bring glory to God through my experience, and know that this time has not been in vain. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And so, my dear Liesel Marie, you may have been with us for only a few short weeks, but you had a grand impact on our lives. I may never hold you in my arms on this earth, but I look forward with joy to the hope I have of meeting you in Heaven. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I love you, </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
-your Mama</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05094522949598302175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074643670736118000.post-14671519547742400002018-06-05T08:28:00.000-04:002018-06-05T08:28:14.677-04:00For His Mercy Endures Forever - Write The WordToday's main text is Psalm 136:1-12, with the rest of the passage to be copied out tomorrow.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
O give thanks unto the LORD, for he is good: </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
for his mercy endureth forever. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
O give thanks unto the God of gods: </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
for his mercy endureth forever. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
O give thanks unto the Lord of lords: </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
for his mercy endureth forever. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To him who alone doeth great wonders: </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
for his mercy endureth forever. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To him that by wisdom made the heavens: </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
for his mercy endureth forever. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To him that stretched out the earth above the waters: </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
for his mercy endureth forever. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To him that made great lights: </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
for his mercy endureth forever: </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
the sun to rule by day: </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
for his mercy endureth forever: </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
the moon and stars to rule by night:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
for his mercy endureth forever. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To him that smote Egypt in their first born: </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
for his mercy endureth forever: </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and brought out Israel from among them: </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
for his mercy endureth forever: </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
with a strong hand and a stretched out arm: </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
for his mercy endureth forever. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Webster's Dictionary: Mercy</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
- From the Latin <i>merces</i> "price paid for something, wages, reward" and the old French <i>mercit </i>or <i>merci</i> "kindness or pity shown to someone"</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
- #1 A kind and gentle treatment of someone (as a wrongdoer or opponent) having no right to it. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
- #2 A blessing as an act of divine love.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Synonyms</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
- Clemency: a mild or merciful disposition in the person having the power to punish.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
- Leniency: the repeated overlooking of mistakes by one not inclined to punish. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
- But he, being full of compassion, forgave their iniquity, and destroyed them not: yea, many a time turned he his anger away, and did not stir up all his wrath. For he remembered that they were but flesh; a wind that passeth away, and cometh not again. - Psalm 78:38-39</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
- Be merciful until me, O LORD: for I cry unto thee daily. Rejoice the soul of thy servant: for unto thee, O LORD, do I lift up my soul. For thou, LORD, art good, and ready to forgive; and plentious in mercy unto all them that call upon thee. - Psalm 86:3-5</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
- I will praise thee, O LORD my God, with all my heart: and I will glorify thy name for evermore. For great is they mercy toward me: and thou hast delivered my soul from the lowest hell. - Psalm 86:12-13</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
- But thou, O LORD, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering, and plentious in mercy and truth. O turn unto me, and have mercy upon me: give thy strength unto thy servant, and save the son of thine handmaid. - Psalm 86:15-16</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
God has the power to punish, and He does at times, but that is not His first inclination. He is not waiting around for the first opportunity to punish us. No, instead, "<b>many a time turned he his anger away</b>". He repeatedly overlooks our mistakes, wrongdoing, and opposition of Him, and treats us with kindness and gentleness, <b>because the price for our sin was already paid by Jesus.</b> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
That, as I see it, is the full definition of <i>mercy</i>; <b>that the person showing mercy takes the price upon himself, and therefore can treat someone who doesn't deserve it with kindness and gentleness</b>. Just as the Samaritan, who showed kindness and gentleness to a man who didn't deserve it, by paying the full price of his lodging and care himself. In such a way God shows mercy to us, taking all the cost of it upon Himself. Truly, <b>His mercy endures forever. </b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05094522949598302175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074643670736118000.post-83959612869160471212018-05-01T08:17:00.003-04:002018-05-01T08:17:59.572-04:00Proverbs 31 - In Closing<div style="text-align: justify;">
I was kind of surprised this morning to find that I had come to the end of Proverbs 31 study. It's been such an on-going study that I hadn't realized how close I was getting to finishing. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But, in closing, I wanted to say a few words to wrap it up. This list of seventeen attributes that I have created here are not meant to be a to-do list for us to cross off every day just for the sake of crossing off. Nor are they the benchmark for a "perfect Christian woman" or a way to measure our own righteousness or a recipe for a perfect life. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
However, I do believe that these are things which we should be seeking after, praying for, and practicing in our lives. They are attributes which God will work in us and through us as He changes our heart to be more like His, and which show His character to a world desperately needing Christ. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I pray that God has used this study to work in your life as I know He has done in mine. So many times, completely without planning on my part, whichever attribute I was studying that week spoke so clearly to something I was dealing with. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I don't know what I'll study from here, or if I'll keep posting it on the blog, but may we all continue to seek to be like Christ and study His words.</div>
Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05094522949598302175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074643670736118000.post-79811851030062576322018-04-24T09:02:00.000-04:002018-04-24T09:02:12.151-04:00Study of Proverbs 31 - Week #18 - Peaceful<div style="text-align: justify;">
"She is not afraid of the snow for her household..." v. 21</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
"..and she shall rejoice in time to come." v. 25</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A godly woman is <u>peaceful</u>. Some versions of the Bible translate verse 25 as "she will rejoice without fear of the future." She doesn't spend her time worrying and fretting and afraid of the future. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Webster's Dictionary - Peaceful: untroubled by conflict, agitation, or commotion</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Webster's Dictionary - Unworried: not afflicted with mental distress or agitation</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I appreciate Webster's definition of peaceful; it doesn't mean "to <b>not experience</b> conflict, etc.", but rather to be "to <b>not be troubled</b> by the conflict that we <b>do</b> experience."</div>
<br />
1. Numbers 6:26 - the Lord gives peace <br />
2. Deuteronomy 31:6-8 - do not be afraid, because God fights for you<br />
3. Joshua 10:25 - " "<br />
4. Psalm 3:5-6 - do not be afraid, for the Lord will sustain you<br />
5. Psalm 4:8 - be at peace because the Lord takes care of you<br />
6. Psalm 23:4 - fear no evil, for God is with you<br />
7. Psalm 27:1-5 - who will we fear? The Lord is our strength<br />
8. Psalm 29:11 - the Lord will bless with peace<br />
9. Psalm 55:18 - He will deliver us into peace<br />
10. Psalm 55:22 - cast your burden on the Lord, and He will sustain you<br />
11. Psalm 56:3-4, 11 - I will not fear for my trust is in the Lord<br />
12. Psalm 85:8 - God will speak peace to His people <br />
13. Psalm 91:1-6 - God is our refuge and fortress, so we do not need to fear<br />
14. Psalm 112:7-8 - do not be afraid; trust in the Lord<br />
15. Psalm 118:6 - I will not fear for the Lord is on my side<br />
16. Psalm 119:165 - those who love God's law have great peace<br />
17. Proverbs 3:5-6 - trust in the Lord, and He will guide you <br />
18. Isaiah 26:3 - those who trust the Lord will be kept in perfect peace<br />
19. Isaiah 26:12 - the Lord will make peace, and will work for us<br />
20. Isaiah 41:10, 13 - fear not, the Lord will help you<br />
21. Isaiah 43:1-5 - fear not; God has redeemed you and will be with you<br />
22. Jeremiah 29:11 - God's plan is for our good<br />
23. Joel 2:21-22 - do not be afraid; the Lord will do great things<br />
24. Matthew 6:25-34 - you can not add to your life by worrying; God will care for you.<br />
25. Luke 12:22-31 - " "<br />
26. John 14:27 - God gives His peace to us<br />
27. John 16:33 - we have peace in Jesus because He overcame the World<br />
28. Romans 8:6 - focusing on spiritual things life and peace<br />
29. Romans 14:17 - the kingdom of God is peace in the Holy Ghost<br />
30. Romans 15:13 - we have peace through the hope from God and the Holy Ghost<br />
31. Galations 5:22 - a fruit of the Spirit is peace<br />
32. Philippians 4:6-7 - do not worry; but by prayer and thanksgiving let the peace of God keep you<br />
33. 2 Thessalonians 3:16 - the Lord of peace Himself gives you peace<br />
34. 1 Peter 5:6-8 - cast your cares on God because He cares for you<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The characteristic of peace is very similar to the last topic of joy, in that true peace is not dependent on the circumstances around us or based on our own ability to plan for and control the future. True peace comes from the Lord. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We do not need to fear our present situation or whatever the future brings, <b>because God</b>. <b>God</b> will guide us; <b>He</b> cares for us; <b>He</b> has redeemed us and has a good plan for us; <b>He</b> will do great things! <b>He</b> will fight for us, and sustain us, and give us strength; <b>He</b> is our refuge and <b>He</b> will deliver and keep us in peace. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Fear is something I struggle with so much, and it constantly pushes me back to prayer, to cast my cares on Him. Some of my fears are simply irrational, but many of them are fears of unknown or unwanted situations. I'm continually learning that I can trust God, not because He will keep me from those hard situations, but because He will never leave me as I walk through them. </div>
<br />Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05094522949598302175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074643670736118000.post-58695820123697760032018-04-04T18:48:00.000-04:002018-04-04T18:49:28.590-04:00Study of Proverbs 31 - Week #17 - Joyful"Strength and honor are her clothing, and she shall rejoice in time to come." v.25<br />
<br />
Strong's Concordance - Rejoice: to laugh, to play, to make merry<br />
<br />
Webster's Dictionary - Rejoice: to feel joy or great delight<br />
<br />
Webster's Dictionary - Joyful: experiencing, causing, or showing joy<br />
<br />
1. 1 Chronicles 16:10 - let those who seek the Lord rejoice<br />
2. Psalm 5:11 - let those who trust in God rejoice<br />
3. Psalm 16:8-11 - in His presence is fullness of joy<br />
4. Psalm 20:5 - we rejoice in God and His salvation, in His name we set up our banners <br />
5. Psalm 21:1 - our joy is in the Lord's strength<br />
6. Psalm 30:5 - joy comes in the morning because in His favor is life<br />
7. Psalm 31:7-8 - we rejoice for God knows our trouble and adversity<br />
8. Psalm 32:10-11 - rejoice because of the Lord's mercy <br />
9. Psalm 33:21 - rejoice, because you trust in His name<br />
10. Psalm 35:9 - my soul will be joyful in the Lord's salvation<br />
11. Psalm 40:16 - let those that seek the Lord rejoice <br />
12. Psalm 43:3-5 - in His light and truth, we go unto God in joy and hope<br />
13. Psalm 51:12 - our joy is in His salvation<br />
14. Psalm 63:3-7 - we will praise Him with joyful lips because of his Help and lovingkindness<br />
15. Psalm 70:4 - let those that seek the Lord rejoice<br />
16. Psalm 90:14 - we rejoice because of the Lord's mercy<br />
17. Psalm 95:1-2 - make a joyful noise with thanksgiving to the rock of our salvation<br />
18. Psalm 97:1 - rejoice because the Lord reigns<br />
19. Psalm 118:24 - rejoice because the Lord has made this day <br />
20. Proverbs 12:20 - those who promote peace have joy<br />
21. Ecclesiasties 3:4 - there is a time for everything, to laugh and dance <br />
22. Isaiah 12:2-3 - we have joy because God is our salvation<br />
23. Isaiah 51:3 - there is joy where the Lord rebuilds <br />
24. Isaiah 61:3 - the Lord give joy for mourning<br />
25. Isaiah 61:10 - our joy comes from God's salvation and righteousness<br />
26. Jeremiah 15:16 - God's word is our joy<br />
27. Joel 2:21 - do not fear, but rejoice, for the Lord will do great things <br />
28. Habbakuk 3:17-19 - even when everything goes wrong, I will rejoice in God's salvation<br />
29. John 15:11 - as we abide in God's love our joy will be full<br />
30. John 16:22 - no man can take away the joy that Christ gives<br />
31. Romans 5:10-11 - we have joy in God because of the atonement of God<br />
32. Romans 12:12 - rejoice in hope through trials<br />
33. Romans 12:15 - rejoice with those who rejoice<br />
34. Romans 14:17 - the kingdom of God is about righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost<br />
35. Romans 15:13 - our faith in Christ brings peace and joy<br />
36. Galations 5:22- a fruit of the Spirit is joy<br />
37. Philippians 4:4 - rejoice in the Lord always<br />
38. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 - rejoice forever, through prayer and thanksgiving <br />
39. James 1:2-4 - there is joy even in trials, because trying our faith grows us<br />
<br />
I found it interesting when I looked up the word "joy" in Webster's Dictionary, that it was defined as "<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">the emotion evoked by well-being, success, or good fortune or by the prospect of possessing what one desires." Unfortunately, that very conditional emotion is the only thing the world knows of joy, and is also our first instinct - our situation dictates our joy. </span></span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">But in reading the scriptures you get such a different picture of joy. The joy of the Lord is not conditional by any means. In fact, I think Habbakuk 3:17-19 does a very good job of showing that even if everything is falling apart around you, you can still find joy in God. James reiterates that you should specifically choose joy when you go through trials, because the trying of your faith will build you and make you stronger. Our life is Christ is about so much more than just what we eat or drink, or what happens to us; it is about living a life of righteousness, peace, and joy through the Holy Spirit. </span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">So, what do we find our joy in? In God, and in His name. It is because of who He is that we can have joy. In His presence, in His favor, in His strength, in His light and truth we find joy. In His Word, in His love, in His atonement of us, in His help and kindness we find joy. Those who seek and trust the Lord can find great joy no matter what is happening around them.</span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">This joy in an outpouring of Christ through us as we abide in His love and are filled with His spirit. We rejoice because we know that God sees our troubles, and yet we rejoice even more because we know that God reigns and that He is our salvation. Even if there is brokenness, and messiness, and mistakes in your life, there will be great joy as God rebuilds, and take comfort knowing that He will change joy for mourning. </span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">No matter what happens, through prayer and thanksgiving, we can experience joy always, and no one can take away the joy that comes from Christ. </span></span></span></div>
Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05094522949598302175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074643670736118000.post-25061529291164441642018-03-28T14:44:00.000-04:002018-03-28T14:44:20.659-04:00Write the Word - Peace<div style="text-align: justify;">
The last few weeks have been hard over here. Between a variety of health issues over the past few months, and my grandma's passing, and a few situations which are full of uncertainty, I was left feeling entirely overwhelmed and nowhere near strong enough to handle it all yesterday. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As yesterday was my normal Bible-study day, I decided to take a break from the Proverbs 31 study to focus more strongly on what I really needed, and I chose to do that through writing out scripture. I love writing the Word; it helps me to focus on and absorb the truth so much more than simply reading it. I hope that these verses also help you, wherever you're at today. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDZdFLgWnQc8GdzzGpTPpY1uZOpLXtqbkuPzGs-1b5g_RfHsD38xuf6EQn4-0cF2O3n5xpXk6vn-jJ_sFISv-KdWGuGBNleXb1F-c2tFNG19iz7SB3QLofbuNRX_0b7nfi7YKhHELp1SM/s1600/29746441_10155752905518649_1875419551_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="829" data-original-width="1600" height="165" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDZdFLgWnQc8GdzzGpTPpY1uZOpLXtqbkuPzGs-1b5g_RfHsD38xuf6EQn4-0cF2O3n5xpXk6vn-jJ_sFISv-KdWGuGBNleXb1F-c2tFNG19iz7SB3QLofbuNRX_0b7nfi7YKhHELp1SM/s320/29746441_10155752905518649_1875419551_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Even in the nighttime, when it's dark, and scary, and I have no idea what is going on, the Lord still <b>guides</b> me and <b>instructs</b> me. If the Lord is before me, I can <b>rest</b> in hope, and rejoice. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik6c0v3gw9veVILhQWUP0sbLVwPmuwpm3QEus1U67dhHncOdNuyvo0eS1ZUxYAOyQFoWCjCRHCFOXBMjo5WtOSywv0f1H5uH6xVoLEV0jHMVKCr1RENno_eLe9RNv_UGebUUt3V2RZ3Kw/s1600/29693518_10155752905243649_1490160247_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="713" data-original-width="1600" height="142" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik6c0v3gw9veVILhQWUP0sbLVwPmuwpm3QEus1U67dhHncOdNuyvo0eS1ZUxYAOyQFoWCjCRHCFOXBMjo5WtOSywv0f1H5uH6xVoLEV0jHMVKCr1RENno_eLe9RNv_UGebUUt3V2RZ3Kw/s320/29693518_10155752905243649_1490160247_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This is a long time favorite of mine; I believe that I will see God's <b>goodness</b> in <b>this life</b>, and that keeps me going. I can find <b>strength</b> and <b>courage</b> as I <b>wait</b> on the Lord. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtb9V8az3q49NTO57JRwdbciA-7JR7xUzmVSJ1lMVe6XIEstHosMuttOtoqEzyUDHOIWb-loX3ufM-LJjWRb6EBO2GeO0a9nxlVhu1X5yuEX9ay96I8hLYZYbkl9fgLMQEeEak-nN9uWU/s1600/29693877_10155752905428649_24582526_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="368" data-original-width="1600" height="73" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtb9V8az3q49NTO57JRwdbciA-7JR7xUzmVSJ1lMVe6XIEstHosMuttOtoqEzyUDHOIWb-loX3ufM-LJjWRb6EBO2GeO0a9nxlVhu1X5yuEX9ay96I8hLYZYbkl9fgLMQEeEak-nN9uWU/s320/29693877_10155752905428649_24582526_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This is my March theme verse; I don't have to do everything, and I don't have to do it all <b>now</b>. God <b>is</b> working, and I can <b>wait patiently</b> for Him, and find <b>rest</b> as I wait. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_PN9XLw2LwnM-zIVeBOQLQNPYYQXGhsNZkO0Jk26t-ymCNhcqwNUXBQms3GmhZ1pOKfZaBxSmmrw8mi_4ug0u9BaRSqrhQXsfArIx9S452yfS6WtKXGTWjhccvdi00c2TnxGJcgLAIao/s1600/29693295_10155752905728649_674200007_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="509" data-original-width="1600" height="101" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_PN9XLw2LwnM-zIVeBOQLQNPYYQXGhsNZkO0Jk26t-ymCNhcqwNUXBQms3GmhZ1pOKfZaBxSmmrw8mi_4ug0u9BaRSqrhQXsfArIx9S452yfS6WtKXGTWjhccvdi00c2TnxGJcgLAIao/s320/29693295_10155752905728649_674200007_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
No matter what the circumstance, I can trust that God <b>is in control</b>, that He <b>is working</b>, and that He <b>will be with me</b> - as I fix my mind on that truth, He will fill me with <b>His perfect peace</b>. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4EFZs6vTNlxwYDLmZPdZ_zVTR1QGAQa0OLK0FsRGq5a-a8Ou95tQ1MRdOBm4vFDUsHCC8leTSy1DvJgxluArSbzf1Q7ileYsO95c7gOO9XZA2znBMiPwLZlvGCnWkb47i4EfoWCYjdJ0/s1600/29693766_10155752905793649_1165041802_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1021" data-original-width="1600" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4EFZs6vTNlxwYDLmZPdZ_zVTR1QGAQa0OLK0FsRGq5a-a8Ou95tQ1MRdOBm4vFDUsHCC8leTSy1DvJgxluArSbzf1Q7ileYsO95c7gOO9XZA2znBMiPwLZlvGCnWkb47i4EfoWCYjdJ0/s320/29693766_10155752905793649_1165041802_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Whether I walk through the water, or the river, or the fire, I will not be overwhelmed, because the One who <b>created me</b> has called me <b>His own</b>, and is <b>always</b> with me. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDhgqa8_TLQwNCVJEkrj0slzfByVKPNG7iPHHz_hE__MRmU-k3aGi_i09A6bTwbbwy8Kl6ImEQWohPSWJL8emrLgBgRIVO087C9X5dWBe_3NIgLbygreHijV-VHKy_dKJ_C3xHONQj4U8/s1600/29693419_10155752905958649_787205185_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="531" data-original-width="1600" height="106" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDhgqa8_TLQwNCVJEkrj0slzfByVKPNG7iPHHz_hE__MRmU-k3aGi_i09A6bTwbbwy8Kl6ImEQWohPSWJL8emrLgBgRIVO087C9X5dWBe_3NIgLbygreHijV-VHKy_dKJ_C3xHONQj4U8/s320/29693419_10155752905958649_787205185_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Christ has given His peace to us, but not as the World gives it. The World gives things circumstantially, conditionally, and expecting something in return. Christ has given me His peace <b>fully</b>, <b>unconditionally</b>, <b>as much as I need</b>, and <b>not based on the circumstances</b>. So my heart does not need to be troubled or afraid. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7DFZcI7O1C7dW6IEFoTCVPU7HpGNN07p76H8Pv1BwzLIi4qQqP18SknkTPrIvdq9i_BIZEKGFsIXpzQGKCr4qGavCD2Rrm614Nsh1yh9ZrfZDzUgcQnOioKnxR6YctRi7u_yogZKytak/s1600/29681300_10155752906153649_1102608385_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="808" data-original-width="1600" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7DFZcI7O1C7dW6IEFoTCVPU7HpGNN07p76H8Pv1BwzLIi4qQqP18SknkTPrIvdq9i_BIZEKGFsIXpzQGKCr4qGavCD2Rrm614Nsh1yh9ZrfZDzUgcQnOioKnxR6YctRi7u_yogZKytak/s320/29681300_10155752906153649_1102608385_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A hand is made for doing things - a hand builds, moves, cleans, holds. Whatever God's hand is doing in my life, I need to humbled myself under it. And as I <b>wait</b> for His work and timing, I can cast <b>all</b> my cares on Him knowing that He <b>does care for me</b>. </div>
Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05094522949598302175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074643670736118000.post-50284845862327664832018-03-20T13:35:00.003-04:002018-03-20T13:36:06.008-04:00Study of Proverbs 31 - Week #16 - Honorable"She makes herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple." v. 22<br />
<br />
"Strength and honor are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come." v. 25<br />
<br />
A godly woman is <u>honorable</u>.<br />
<br />
Webster's Dictionary - honor: a good name or public esteem; one who's worth brings respect or fame<br />
<br />
Webster's Dictionary - honorable: <span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">deserving of respect or high regard; </span></span></span><br />
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><b class="mw_t_bc"></b>consistent with a reputation that is not tarnished or sullied;</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">characterized by integrity;<b class="mw_t_bc"> </b>guided by a keen sense of duty and ethical conduct </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">Strong's Concordance - honor: ornament, splendor, glory, majesty</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">Strong's Concordance - honorable: of good standing, respectable, </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">bearing one's self becomingly in speech or behavior</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">The idea of being honorable includes many different facets, in my view. First, from verse 22, we see that her clothing is made of silk and purple, a precious color. No matter how humble she is (remember from last week, she's making her own bed linens), she still clothes herself as befits the wife of an elder. She doesn't dress in rags and act like a beggar; no, she dresses and acts in a way that will bring respect to herself and her husband. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">She also figuratively wears honor. She is known for integrity and is worthy of high regard. Her integrity and good conduct are so much a part of her that they are like the very clothes she puts on day in and day out and are present in every part of her life. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">1. Genesis 39:7-12 - Joseph had integrity in refusing the temptation of his master's wife</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">2. Psalm 7:8 - God judges our integrity</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">3. Psalm 25:21 - let integrity preserve you as you wait on the Lord</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">4. Psalm 41:12 - the Lord will uphold you in integrity</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">5. Proverbs 11:3 - integrity will guide you</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">6. Proverbs 11:16 - though violence may gain you riches, graciousness will gain you respect </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">7. Proverbs 19:1 - it is better to have integrity and be poor, than to be crooked and a fool</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">8. Proverbs 20:7 - a just man walks in integrity and causes his children to be blessed</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">9. Matthew 6:1 - do not do good deeds just to be seen by men</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">10. Matthew 23:27-28 - our integrity needs to come from our heart and not just be on the surface </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">11. Ephesians 4:1-3 - walk in a way worthy of the Lord's calling</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">12. Ephesians
4:21-24 - put off your old mode of conduct and put on the new one which
is patterned after God in righteousness and holiness </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">13. Philippians 1:9-11 - be sincere and pure, filled with the fruit of righteousness to the glory of God</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">14. Philippians 1:27 - let you conversation be becoming to the gospel</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">15. Philippians 4:8 - consider good, honorable, upright things and weigh out how you are practicing them in your own life</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">16. Colossians 1:9-10 - we can walk worthy of the Lord through a knowledge of His will and spiritual wisdom</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">17. 1 Thessalonians 2:10-12 - Paul behaved justly in Thessalonica, and wants them to walk worthy of the Lord as well</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">18. Titus 2:3 - older women should behave in a way becoming to holiness and teach the younger women to do so as well</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">19. Titus 2:7-8 - show a pattern of good works and sincerity in your life </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">20. 1 Peter 1:13-16 - be holy in all of your conduct as Jesus Christ is holy</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">21. 1 Peter 2:12 - let you conduct be honest so that even those who speak against you may see your good works and glorify God </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">As the children of a holy and righteous God, we are called to a high standard of conduct. Jesus Christ is our example and goal of holiness; that is an incredibly high calling, and we need to walk in a way worthy of that. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">It is so important for us to walk in a worthy manner, because that is the greatest example of Christ. It also is our greatest witness to others of the gospel; unfortunately, I have heard one too many times of unbelievers being turned off from faith because of the poor way a Christian in their life has behaved. Of course, we all sin and we ought not pretend to be perfect; but we should strive to act in a way becoming to the gospel, so that even those who would wish to slander us will have to acknowledge the good they see, which will bring great glory to God. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">I think a big part of being honorable is having integrity - doing the right thing even when no one is looking, or no one will know the difference. Joseph displayed immense integrity when his master's wife tempted him to join her in sexual sin, but he refused because he could not betray his master's confidence. Even though Joseph did the right thing, the situation was used against him and landed him in prison. Sometimes even in our integrity we will face trials and persecution, but it is that very integrity that will guide and preserve us as we wait for the Lord to act on our behalf. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">God sees all we do and knows our inner intentions, and He will judge our integrity. We should not do the right thing just to get attention or make ourselves look good, all the while being filled with sin and darkness and on the inside. Our integrity needs to come from a renewed heart and mind, one that is patterned after God and filled with the fruit of righteousness. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-1"><span class="dt "><span data-source="entry-dictionary"><span class="sb-0"><span class="dt ">I love how Paul talks about this in Philippians 4:8; that phrase "think on these things" is more than just to have good and excellent thoughts. Rather, it means to reckon, calculate, or make an account of. Almost as if you were going over your finances at the end of the month, making an account of everything you spent and earned, seeing what in in your bank account, and balancing your records. Take stock of and weigh out the account of the good, excellent, honorable things in your life, and see how you well you are truly walking in a righteous way. We all fall far short of the goal of Jesus Christ, but by His grace we can walk in a more worthy manner. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05094522949598302175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074643670736118000.post-35542193842124794852018-03-06T10:59:00.001-05:002018-03-06T10:59:29.136-05:00Study of Proverbs 31 - Week #15 - Prepared"She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet." -v.21<br />
<br />
A godly woman is <u>prepared<i></i></u>.<br />
<u><i> </i></u><br />
Webster's Dictionary - Prepared: made at an earlier time for later use; made ready in advance; ready for something; in a suitable condition for some purpose for activity.<br />
<br />
1. Genesis 6:1-7:5 - Noah prepared for the flood<br />
2. Genesis 41:25-57 - Joseph prepared Egypt for the famine<br />
3. Exodus 16:14-30 - the Israelites trusted God for their daily provision of manna, but also prepared on the sixth day to be ready for the Sabbath<br />
4. 2 Chronicles 27:6 - Jotham prepared his ways before the Lord<br />
5. Ezra 7:10 - Ezra prepared his heart to seek the Lord<br />
6. Nehemiah 4 - the Israelites did not have to be afraid of enemies, because they were prepared for them<br />
7. Proverbs 21:31 - the Lord is our true safety<br />
8. Proverbs 24:27 - prepare for your work<br />
9. Proverbs 30:25 - ants are wise for getting food in the summer<br />
10. Matthew 25:1-13 - watch, and be prepared for Christ's coming<br />
11. Luke 12:22-31 - do not worry just about earthly things, but prepare for heavenly things<br />
12. Luke 12:35-47 - be prepared for the Lord's coming<br />
13. 2 Timothy 2:19-22 - depart from iniquity to be ready for God's purposes<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This idea of being prepared requires a big, well-rounded view to get the whole picture. There is indeed an aspect of preparing for earthly things. From the verse in Proverbs 31, we see that this woman doesn't need to worry about the winter, because she has prepared clothes for her family ahead of time. Noah obeyed God and prepared for the flood by building the ark and getting his family and the animals aboard. God used Joseph to saves thousands of people because he prepared ahead of time for the famine to come. When the Israelites were rebuilding the wall around Jerusalem and there were threats from their enemies, Nehemiah had them prepare by carrying weapons and taking shifts at building and defending. The ants are set up as a wise example to us because they gather food in the summer to prepare for the winter. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And yet, there is more to being prepared than just our food and clothes and earthly worries, and we should be unafraid of the future not solely because of what WE have done to prepare. An army can prepare their horses for battle, but ultimately their safety comes from the Lord. I find that the story of the manna in Exodus is an excellent example of a very delicate balance between relying on God to work things out and also making preparations for the future. For 5 days, the Israelites were supposed to gather just enough manna for that day, in order that they might learn to rely on God for their basic, daily needs. However, God had also commanded them to observe the Sabbath; they were supposed to gather two days worth of manna on the 6th day so that they were prepared to rest on the 7th. Both sides required faith from the Israelites, though - faith that God would provide food tomorrow, and also faith that the double portion would not spoil. No matter how much we do to prepare, it truly is God that is in control and cares for us. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Not only that, but we should be concerned with preparing <u>ourselves</u>, too. Jotham, a sixteen-year-old kind of Israel, became mighty because he prepared his ways before the Lord. Ezra, a great priest, prepared his heart to seek the Lord and His law, and was used mightily among the Israelites. We need to prepare our hearts and minds for heavenly things, and be ready for Christ's call. What a shame it would be if Christ called us to some work, and because our heart was unprepared, we missed the opportunity and blessing. As it says in 2 Timothy 2, let us depart from iniquity and cleanse ourselves from dishonorable things so that we can be ready for the Master's use and prepared for every good work. </div>
Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05094522949598302175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074643670736118000.post-54228912195353097662018-02-28T12:38:00.000-05:002018-02-28T12:38:10.553-05:00Study of Proverbs 31 - Week #14 - Humble<div style="text-align: justify;">
"She makes herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing <em>is</em> silk and purple.". v.22</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A godly woman is <u>humble</u>. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Some translations phrase the first half of this verse as "She makes her own bed linens", because according to Strong's, the "coverings of tapestry" means a coverlette or bedspread. One commentary I read stated that this would be more of a coarse, sturdy linen, but whether these are plain and simple or fancy tapestry, <u>she makes her own bed linens</u>. Also, earlier in verse 15, it states that she rises early to prepare food for both her family AND <u>her servants</u>. You'd expect a woman with maids to make them do the cooking and tedious work of weaving, but no, this woman in Proverbs is humble enough to do that work herself. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Webster's Dictionary - Humble: not proud, haughty, arrogant, or assertive</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Webster's Dictionary - Humility: free from pride or arrogance</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Strong's Concordance - Humility: gentleness or meekness</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1. Psalm 25:9 - God will guide and teach the meek</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2. Psalm 37:11 - the meek will inherit the earth and delight in the peace</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3. Psalm 138:6 - although the Lord is high above us, He respects the humble, but is distant from the proud</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
4. Psalm 147:6 - the Lord lifts up the meek</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
5. Psalm 149:4 - the Lord will beautify the meek with salvation</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
6. Proverbs 6:16-17 - a proud look is an abomination to the Lord</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
7. Proverbs 11:2 - shame comes with pride</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
8. Proverbs 15:33 - humility comes before honor</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
9. Proverbs 16:5 - a proud heart is an abomination to the Lord</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
10. Proverbs 16:9 - it is better to be humble and poor than rich and proud</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
11. Proverbs 16:18 - pride goes before the fall</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
12. Proverbs 18:12 - pride is before destruction and humility is before honor</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
13. Proverbs 21:4 - a proud heart is a sin</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
14. Proverbs 22:4 - riches, honor, and life come by humility and the fear of the Lord</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
15. Proverbs 29:23 - honor will uphold the humble</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
16. Ecclesiasties 7:8 - patience is better than pride</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
17. Isaiah - 29:19 - the meek will increase their joy in the Lord</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
18. Micah 6:8 - the Lord requires us to walk humbly with God</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
19. Matthew 5:5 - the meek will inherit the earth</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
20. Matthew 18:4 - those who are as humble as children will be great in the kingdom of heaven</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
21. Matthew 23:12 - those who humble themselves will be exalted</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
22. Mark 7:20-23 - pride comes out of the heart and defiles you</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
23. Romans 12:3 - don't think of yourself more highly than you ought to</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
24. Romans 12:16 - don't be haughty, but associate with the humble</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
25. Galations 5:22-23 - a fruit of the Spirit is gentleness and meekness</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
26. Ephesians 4:1-3 - walk with meekness, endeavoring to keep peace</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
27. Philippians 2:3-8 - do everything with humility, putting others before you, even as Christ took the form of a servant and humbled Himself unto death</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
28. Colassians 3:12 - as God's elect, show humility and meekness</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
29. 1 Timothy 6:11 - flee sin and temptation, and follow after meekness</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
30. 2 Timothy 2:24-26 - if you are called to teach others, do so with meekness and gentleness</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
31. Titus 3:1-2 - be gentle and show meekness to all</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
32. James 4:6 - God gives grace to the humble</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
33. James 4:10 - the Lord will lift up the humble</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
34. 1 Peter 3:1-4 - wives, be in submission to your husband, and let your adornment be that of a meek spirit</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
35. 1 Peter 5:5-7 - everyone, be humble to each other, for God gives grace to the humble; humble yourself before God, because He cares for you</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
36. 1 John 2:16 - the pride of life is of the world, not of the Father</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Bible speaks very strongly about pride and humility. A proud heart is not just a sin, but an abomination to the Lord. That's pretty hard; that means it's worthy of hatred and disgust. Pride will defile and destroy you, make you very distant from God, and bring you shame. The pride of life is not from the Father, but from this World. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
On the flip side, humility will bring you close to God, and He will guide, teach, and lift you up. Humility will bring honor, life, and riches far greater than any you could get through pride. More than sacrifice or fasting, God requires that we walk humbly with Him and show meekness as His elect people. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Often those who are humble and meek get trampled on or badly used or even just forgotten about by the World; however, patience is still better than pride. The humble are made beautiful by the Lord's salvation, find great joy in the Lord, and will be great in the kingdom of heaven. Remember, honor comes after humility.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Humility will change your relationships with others; it is the best way to keep peace and create unity. If you are called to teach others, you should do so with meekness and gentleness, instead of with an air of superiority or condescension. And, although Peter speaks specifically of wives winning their husband to Christ though their humility and meekness, I believe we ALL could get much farther with others if we were to show humility. Humility is a much better adornment and charm than a pretty outward appearance. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Being humble is one of the most difficult things to do, but as we are filled with the Holy Spirit, it will flow out of us. God gives grace TO the humble, and gives grace to BE humble. We can be humble before God and others because we know that He cares for us and is working on our behalf. Our humility is an example of Jesus, because He left His high station and came to earth in the form of a servant, and humbled Himself even to death on the cross for us. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05094522949598302175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074643670736118000.post-54229964820905962402018-02-20T09:10:00.001-05:002018-02-20T09:10:33.126-05:00Study of Proverbs 31 - Week #13 - Compassionate<div style="text-align: justify;">
"She stretches out her hand to the poor; yea, she reaches forth her hands to the needy." - v. 20</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A godly woman is <u>compassionate</u>. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This goes hand-in-hand with what we were talking about last week; our compassion will move us to be generous. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Webster's Dictionary - Compassionate: having or showing compassion; sympathetic</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Compassion: sympathetic consciousness of others' distress together with a desire to alleviate it.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Strong's Concordance - Compassion: to have the bowels yearn, i.e. (figuratively)
feel sympathy, to pity:—have (be moved with) compassion. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1. Psalm 78:38-39 - God remembers that we are only flesh, and compassionately forgives us</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2. Psalm 86:15 - God is full of compassion</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3. Mathew 9:36-38, Mark 6:34 - Jesus had compassion on the lost multitudes, and prayed that God would send workers to guide them</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
4. Matthew 14:14 - Jesus had compassion, and healed them</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
5. Matthew 15:32, Mark 8:2 - Jesus had compassion, and fed them</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
6. Matthew 18:23-35 - a parable of having compassion and showing forgiveness, as Christ did for us</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
7. Matthew 20:34 - Jesus had compassion, and restored their vision</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
8. Mark 1:41 - Jesus healed a leper</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
9. Luke 7:12-15 - Jesus brought a widow's son back to life out of compassion</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
10. Luke 10:30-37 - the Samaritan had compassion</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
11. Luke 15:20 - the father had compassion on his prodigal son</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
12. Romans 12:15 - sympathize with each other, both in joy and sorrow</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
13. Ephesians 4:32 - be kind and tender hearted</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
14. Philipians 2:1-2 - be of one mind, show love with compassion</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
15. Colossians 3:12-13 - as God's elect, we should show compassion</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
16. Hebrews 2:17-18 - Jesus suffered as we do so that he can be a compassionate and merciful high priest</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
17. Hebrews 14:15-16 - Jesus is compassionate for he was tempted as we are</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
18. Hebrews 15:1-2 - every earthly high priest is an example of Christ, in that he can have compassion for the weak, because he has weakness, too </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
19. 1 Peter 3:8-9 - be of one mind, and compassionate to each other</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Jesus is our ultimate example of compassion. Everywhere he went, he had compassion on people, both for their spiritual needs and for their physical needs; this led him to heal, feed, and pray for them. God showed compassion on the Israelites and on us, remembering that we are just weak, frail flesh, and forgiving us. Cannot we then, remember that everyone else is also just frail flesh, and have compassion?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have seen these quotes going around on Facebook and Pinterest, which all credit different authors but all have the same idea of "You never know what someone is going through, so be kind" or "Be kind, because everyone is fighting a hard battle." <u>That is compassion</u>; and although we may not know exactly what another person is going through, we too are humans and ought to be able to sympathize. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I love the picture that is used in Hebrews of Jesus being our high priest; he intentionally and willingly suffered and was tempted as we are so that he could be a compassionate and faithful intercessor for us before God. It then continues to say that earthly high priests can also be compassionate to the weak and lost around them, because they, too, have weakness. An earthly high priest could be a pastor, or maybe a missionary, but it can also be <u>you and me</u>, as in 1 Peter 2:9, we are referred to as a "royal priesthood". </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And so, as God's people, we should be of one mind with each other, being compassionate, and sympathizing with each other in both joy and sorrow; that sympathy should then <u>move</u> us to show love, kindness, tenderness, patience, etc. We do those things, not just because it is our duty, but because of the compassion we feel as a result and example of the compassion Christ gives to us. </div>
<br />Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05094522949598302175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074643670736118000.post-31075826898661098462018-02-14T17:57:00.001-05:002018-02-14T17:58:04.541-05:00Study of Proverbs 31 - Week #12 - Generous<div style="text-align: justify;">
"She stretches out her hand to the poor; yea, she reaches forth her hands to the needy." - v. 20</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A godly woman is <u>generous</u>. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Webster's Dictionary - Generous: characterized by a noble or kindly spirit; liberal in giving. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I think it important to set the stage here by saying that generosity does not only speak of giving away money or possessions. Just as we talked about with being economical, our resources can be so many different things, and we should be generous with all our resources; generous with our time, our money, our patience and kindness and love and spiritual gifts and anything that we can give to others. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1. Deuteronomy 5:7, 11 - open your hand and heart to the poor and needy</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2. Psalm 112:9 - a good man disperses his wealth</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3. Proverbs 3:27-28 - if you have the ability to help someone, do not put it off</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
4. Proverbs 11:25 - the liberal soul will be made fat</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
5. Proverbs 13:7 - even if you are made poor because of your generosity, you will still have great riches</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
6. Proverbs 14:21, 31 - if you honor God, you will have mercy on the poor, and be happy</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
7. Proverbs 21:26 - the righteous give without sparing</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
8. Proverbs 22:9 - those who are bountiful will be blessed</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
9. Proverbs 25:21-22 - we should be generous even to our enemies, as a witness to them</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
10. Proverbs 28:7 - those who give to the poor will not lack</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
11. Isaiah 58:1-12 - our "righteous" and religious acts avail us nothing if we are not actively showing the love of God through generosity</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
12. Matthew 5:42 - give to those who ask you</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
13. Matthew 19:21; Mark 10:21; Luke 18:22 - Jesus tells us to sell what we have and give to the poor, because we ought not love our possessions more than Christ</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
14. Luke 3:11 - if you have excess, give to those who don't </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
15. Luke 6:38 - the generosity that we show to others is the generosity that will be shown to us</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
16. Luke 12:33-34 - give generously, and you make your treasure in heaven</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
17. Acts 20:35 - it is better to give than to receive</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
18. Romans 12:8 - give liberally, not asking glory for yourself</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
19. Romans 12:13 - distribute to the needs of fellow believers; be hospitable</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
20. 2 Corinthians 8:1-15 - we should help others in their time of need because of the grace God has shown us </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
21. 2 Corinthians 9:6-10 - those who sow bountifully will reap bountifully; give cheerfully and trust that God will supply your needs </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
22. 1 Timothy 6:17-19 - those who are rich should be ready to distribute, and gain eternal riches</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
23. James 2:15-16 - good words don't profit if you don't act out your generosity</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
24. 1 John 3:17-18 - do not just <u>say</u> you love God and others, <u>act</u> your love through generosity</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I honestly got so much more out of this study than I expected. I expected most of the verses in Proverbs, and the ones in the Gospels, that talk about being liberal and bountiful and giving to the poor. Not that I intend to minimize the importance of those verses, but simply that they're very straight forward. It is better to give than to receive; there are more valuable riches in Heaven, so we should be willing to give away our earthly riches in order to gain the prize that Christ gives to us. If we have the ability to help someone, we shouldn't put it off, and we should be generous to our enemies, as a display of Christ's love to them. We should give humbly and simply, not looking to glorify ourselves or get something in return. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
There were a few sections that really stood out to me, though. The first was Isaiah 58:1-12, corroborated by James 2:15-16 and 1 John 3:17-18. The passage in Isaiah is God speaking to the Israelites. They were praying, and seeking God, and fasting, and doing all the "right, Christian" things, and yet they were angry because God would not hear their prayer. God says "Is this all I asked of you, to fast and pray and cover yourself in sackcloth and ashes? The fast that I want from you is to break away from sin, to free the enslaved, to give your food to the hungry, bring the homeless into your home, and care for your fellow men. If you do those things, then the Lord will guide you, satisfy you, make you strong, and you will be the foundation for many future generations." I believe the point in these three passages is that God wants more from us than to simply <u>say</u> we love Him, or <u>know</u> the truth, or go through the religious motions. He calls us to <u>actively display</u> His love and the truth of His words through our generosity to others. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Secondly, the verses in 2 Corinthians 8. Paul is encouraging the Corinthians to be generous in their help of other believers who are in need, using the Macedonians as a good example of giving despite having little to give. Paul reminds them that if they want to give, they should not dwell on the fact that they have very little, but instead think about what they <u>do have</u> to give, and that we give to others because of how much God gave for us. I believe that the church was meant to be a community that supports each other through generosity; as Paul says, not that some are burdened and others get it easy, but that when one person has needs, other people can supply them, and when those people have a need, someone else will step up to supply it. As it says in Romans 12:13, we are to distribute to the needs of the saints and be given to hospitality. I also like how Paul refers to the grace of God many times; Webster's Dictionary states that grace is unmerited help and favor. Even the fact that we have means to give to others is a testament to the grace that God has given to us. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This flows right into the next chapter of 2 Corinthians, in which Paul continues to talk about giving generously, and that we should do it cheerfully, not with a bad attitude or because we <u>have</u> to. Specifically, verses 8 and 10 stand out to me. God is able to bountifully give you His unmerited help and favor so that, your needs being supplied, you may be bountiful to others in good works. Now, may Jesus Christ supply your needs, multiply the good works you plant in others, and increase the blessing, reward, and fruit that comes out of those good works. Every time I read those verses my heart starts pounding, because it is such a strong picture to me, and resonates so loudly. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>This is how generosity works</u>: Christ was more than generous to us, in that He gave His LIFE for us. Every single day, He is willing to give us <u>Himself</u> to fill us up, if we would only receive it. Once we are full of Him, we can pour out generously to others, in order to fill them with the very same grace that Christ filled us with.</div>
<br />
<br />Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05094522949598302175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074643670736118000.post-37094126406008974402018-02-06T21:21:00.002-05:002018-02-06T21:21:55.625-05:00Study of Proverbs 31 - Week #11 - Wise<div style="text-align: justify;">
"She opens her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness." - v.26</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A godly woman is <u>wise</u>. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Strong's Concordance - Wisdom: skill in war, wisdom in administration, shrewdness, prudence</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Webster's Dictionary - Wisdom: ability to discern inner qualities and relationships, good sense and judgment</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Wise: marked by deep understanding, keen discernment, and a capacity for sound judgment</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1. Psalm 19:17 - the Lord's testimony (declaration) is established and faithful, and will make the foolish wise</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2. Psalm 37:30 - the righteous speak wisdom</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3. Proverbs 1:5 - a wise man continues to learn</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
4. Proverbs 1:7 - a fool despises wisdom</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
5. Proverbs 2:1-6 - if you apply yourself to seek wisdom, then you will understand the fear of the Lord, and He will give you His wisdom</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
6. Proverbs 2:10-11 - wisdom and discretion will preserve you</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
7. Proverbs 3:13-14 - the gain from wisdom is better than gold</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
8. Proverbs 4:5-9 - wisdom is the first and best thing, and will ornament you with grace</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
9. Proverbs 7:4-5 make wisdom like a sister so that you are not tempted or distracted by false strangers</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
10. Proverbs 8:11 - wisdom is better than rubies</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
11. Proverbs 8:14 - wisdom has strength</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
12. Proverbs 8:17 - those that seek wisdom early shall find it</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
13. Proverbs 8:19 - the fruit of wisdom is better than gold</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
14. Proverbs 8:20 - wisdom leads in a righteous way</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
15. Proverbs 8:32,34 - those that seek wisdom are blessed</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
16. Proverbs 8:33 - the wise will not refuse instruction</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
17. Proverbs 8:35-36 - those who find wisdom find life </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
18. Proverbs 10:8 - a wise man will receive commandments</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
19. Proverbs 10:13,31 - those with discernment will speak wisdom</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
20. Proverbs 11:2 - the humble have wisdom</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
21. Proverbs 12:18 - wise tongue is health</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
22. Proverbs 13:10 - those who take advice are wise, but pride brings conflict</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
23. Proverbs 13:20 - to be wise, you should walk with wise people</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
24. Proverbs 14:1 - a wise woman builds her house</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
25. Proverbs 14:8 - a prudent ma will give wise thought to this ways, but folly is deceiving</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
26. Proverbs 14:33 - wisdom is with the discerning person</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
27. Proverbs 15:2,7 - a wise mouth uses knowledge well and disperses it</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
28. Proverbs 16:16 - wisdom is much better than gold or silver </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
29. Proverbs 16:23 - a wise heart will speak wisdom</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
30. Proverbs 17:24 - wisdom is with the discerning person</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
31. Proverbs 18:4 - the fountain of wisdom is like a pouring river</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
32. Proverbs 19:20 - you will be wise if you receive counsel and instruction</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
33. Proverbs 24:3 - a home is built by wisdom</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
34. Proverbs 24:5-6 - wisdom is strong and there is safety in a group of counselors</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
35. Proverbs 24:13-14 - wisdom to the soul is like honey to the taste</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
36. Proverbs 26:12 - a man wise in his own conceit is more hopeless than a fool</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
37. Proverbs 29:15 - correction brings wisdom</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
38. Ecclesiasties 2:13 - wisdom is better than folly like light is better than dark</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
39. Ecclesiasties 7:12 - both wisdom and money are useful, but wisdom gives life</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
40. Ecclesiasties 7:19 - wisdom is stronger than ten mighty men</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
41. Ecclesiasties 9:18 - wisdom is better than weapons of war</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
42. Ecclesiasties 10:10 - wisdom gives good direction</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
43. Jeremiah 9:23 - we ought not glory in our wisdom</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
44. Romans 11:33 - God's wisdom is deep with riches</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
45. Romans 12:16 - be not wise in your own conceits</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
46. 1 Corinthians 1:30 - Jesus is our wisdom</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
47. 1 Corinthians 2:7-10 - God's hidden wisdom is revealed to us by the Spirit</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
48. 1 Corinthians 3:19 - the world's wisdom is as foolishness to God</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
49. Colossians 2:2-3 - all the treasures of wisdom are in Christ</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
50. James 1:5-6 - if we ask God with faith for wisdom, He will give it liberally</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
51. James 3:13-17 - anyone who is truly wise will show meekness, instead of pride, selfishness, and jealousy. God's wisdom is pure, peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial, and sincere. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Wisdom is a vast and deep subject in the Bible, and this is by no means an exhaustive list. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
What a beautiful metaphor: wisdom is better than folly like light is better than dark. Why is light so good? It allows you to see clearly, and in seeing provides good judgment and discernment. It shows dirt in the corner to clean out; it helps you see the fine details on a delicate project; it helps you discern between friend and enemy; it allow you to take stock of anything coming against you so you know best how to fight it off. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Darkness, on the other hand, obscures your vision, tricks you into seeing things that aren't really there and keeps you from seeing the truth, fills you with fear and causes you to make poor decisions or at least fail in your good attempts. So, wisdom is better than folly. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The rewards of wisdom are better than gold, silver, and rubies; both wisdom and money are useful, but wisdom brings life. God's wisdom is deep with riches. Wisdom is stronger than tan the brute force of ten mighty men, and is a better defense than the weapons of war. It will preserve you and keep you from being led away by temptations, and will lead you in a good and righteous way. Wisdom gives good direction and counsel. In all your efforts to grow and learn, make sure you learn wisdom, for it is the first and best thing; those who find it find life, blessing, and an ornament of grace. Wisdom is to your soul like honey is to your taste.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If you would find wisdom, apply yourself to seeking it early, and God will give you His wisdom. The fountain of wisdom is like a pouring river - it gushes and gushes and cannot be stopped. Be willing to receive correction and instruction, and surround yourself with wise people. Diligently seek the Scriptures, for the Lord's words are long established and always faithful, and will make you wise. If we ask God for wisdom, with faith intending to act upon it, then He will give it to us liberally. We will find wisdom in Jesus Christ, and by the Holy Spirit God's hidden wisdom is revealed to us.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We are warned not to seek the world's wisdom, because it is as foolishness to God, and the wisdom of God is often thought of as foolish by the world. We also should not be prideful in our wisdom or think we know it all, because that person is more hopeless than a fool, and a fool despises wisdom. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Instead, a truly wise person will show meekness, because God's wisdom is pure, peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial, and sincere. A wise person will be humble, righteous, and discerning. they will continue to learn and not refuse instruction. They will take advice and give wise thought to their ways. A wise person will speak wisdom and use their knowledge well, giving health to those who hear them. Lastly, it is through seeking, using, and speaking wisdom that we will build our house strong. </div>
<br />
<br />Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05094522949598302175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074643670736118000.post-55837912842640555802018-01-30T09:48:00.001-05:002018-05-01T08:05:22.285-04:00Study of Proverbs 31 - Week #10 - Supportive<div style="text-align: justify;">
This is one was hard to research -the idea in my head needed some refining before it really made sense. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A godly woman is supportive.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
"She rises also while it is yet night, and gives meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens. She considers a field, and buys it: with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard....Her husband is known in the gates, when he sits among the elders of the land." - V. 15, 16, 23</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
My thought here is that she is supporting her husband and family by rising early to make sure they are fed and ready for the day. She probably does not own the field herself, yet she supports her husband by being knowledgeable in the area of agriculture and property, and tending to some of the business. That frees her husband up to be out among the elders and influential in the community. I do not mean<span class=" UFICommentActorAndBody"><span><span><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="UFICommentBody"><span> husband is throwing his duties on the
wife’s shoulders, but simply that because he has a partner who is
actively supporting their endeavors, he is able to be more
successful.</span></span></span></span></span></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Webster's Dictionary - Support: to promote the interests or cause of; to assist or help; to keep another from fainting, yielding, or losing courage; to keep something going</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1. Genesis 2:18 - woman was created to help man</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2. Ecclesiasties 4:9-12 - two are better than one, because they help each other<br />
3. Luke 22:26-27 - the master is not better than the servant <br />
4. John 13:12-15 - Jesus set an example of humbly serving others<br />
5. Romans 12:10 - outdo each other in love and honor<br />
6. Romans 15:1-6 - bear with one another and build each other up, to glorify God together</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
7. Romans 16:1-2 - Phebe was praised for the help and support she gave to others<br />
8. 1 Corinthians 9:19 - freely serve others as an example of Christ <br />
9. Galations 5:13 - serve one another in love<br />
10. Galations 6:2 - bear each other's burdens<br />
11. Philippians 2:1-8 - comfort and support each other, putting others first, even as Christ became a servant to all</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
12. Titus 2:5 - we are to be the keeper of the home<br />
<br /><div style="text-align: justify;">
The “support” I talk of here is just a small part of the bigger
picture of serving each other which we are all called to do as
Christians. Jesus set us the greatest example of serving each other in love, and honoring each other. This harks back to the study of "self-sacrificing", but I think is even more active. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Support and service is more than just yielding to another's wishes, or giving up your own desire for someone else's, it is actively working to promote and help the other person. Bearing each other's burdens, comforting each other, helping each other, honoring each other. Being the help and support that the other person can rely on, because two working together is far better than one struggling alone. </div>
</div>
Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05094522949598302175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074643670736118000.post-28720756314332964902018-01-23T16:24:00.000-05:002018-01-23T16:24:47.938-05:00Study of Proverbs 31 - Week #9 - Industrious<div style="text-align: justify;">
A godly woman is industrious. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
"She rises also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens. She considers a field, and buys it: with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard." - v.15-16</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
"She perceives that her merchandise <em>is</em> good: her candle goes not out by night. She lays her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff." - v.18-19</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
"She makes herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing <em>is</em> silk and purple." - v.22</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
"She makes fine linen, and sells <em>it</em>; and delivers girdles unto the merchant." v.24</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
"She looks well to the ways of her household, and eats not the bread of idleness." - v.27</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Webster's Dictionary - Industrious: constantly, regularly, or habitually active or occupied</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1. Proverbs 6:6-11 - the ant is diligent, we should not sleep away our days</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2. Proverbs 10:4 - diligence makes rich</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3. Proverbs 10:5 - it is wise to gather while there is plenty</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
4. Proverbs 12:11 - diligence provides needs</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
5. Proverbs 12:24 - sloth will make you dependent on others</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
6. Proverbs 12:27 - diligences does not waste what it worked hard to get</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
7. Proverbs 13:4 - diligence provides needs</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
8. Proverbs 14:4 - not working may be easier, but increase comes by hard work</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
9. Proverbs 19:15 - idleness causes hunger</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
10. Proverbs 20:13 - loving sleep brings poverty</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
11. Proverbs 22:29 - diligence will take you far in life</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
12. Proverbs 24:30-34 - the field of the slothful is overgrown and falling apart</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
13. Proverbs 30:24-28 - these small, industrious creatures are a wise example to us</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
14. Ecclessiasties 10:18 - idleness destroys your house</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Proverbs seems to be the book about industry and hard work. It is a wise warning that we ought not to love sleep too much, because idleness brings hunger and poverty, and makes you dependent on others. The field of the slothful is overgrown and unable to produce, and their house is falling apart. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Even very small creatures such as the act set a strong example for us of being industrious and working to provide our needs. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Diligence and industry provides for our needs and our family's needs; it increases our resources and will take you far in life; and it does not waste what it worked hard to get. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Not working may be easier, cleaner, and more comfortable, but increase comes only by hard work. </div>
Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05094522949598302175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074643670736118000.post-68532672789448223142018-01-16T09:20:00.000-05:002018-01-16T09:20:46.764-05:00Study of Proverbs 31 - Week #8 - EconomicalA godly woman is <u>economical</u>.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
"She is like the merchants' ships; she brings her food from afar." - Proverbs 31:14</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Webster's Dictionary - Economical: marked by careful, efficient, and prudent use of resources; operating with little waste or at a saving.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A merchant's ship will travel far and wide searching for the best price and source for his goods; he will travel a great distance if it means a good deal. </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1. Deuteronomy 8:17-18 - God gives us the power to have wealth</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2. Proverbs 13:11 - wealth gotten by labor will continue to grow</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3. Proverbs 21:17 - our earthly pleasures will rob us of resources</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
4. Proverbs 21:20 - it is wise to store resources</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
5. Proverbs 24:3-4 - wisdom and knowledge will build your house and supply its need</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
6. Proverbs 27:23-27 - know the state of your resources, and tend them well</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
7. Matthew 25:15-30 - God has given us resources in this life and we need to use them wisely</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In all matters of resources and money, we must remember that it is God who gives us the power to have wealth, not our own strength. Because God is the one who has given us these resources, we need to use them wisely. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Wisdom and knowledge will build a strong house and supply your needs, and wealth gotten by hard work will continue to grow. It is wise to know the state of your resources and tend them well, and to save up some for future need. However, love of pleasure will rob you of your resources. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>It is important to remember that resources are not always monetary</u> - your resources could be your time, skills, belongings, etc. A godly woman will use ALL of her resources economically. </div>
Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05094522949598302175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074643670736118000.post-40588908171448833142018-01-09T12:03:00.000-05:002018-01-09T12:03:03.760-05:00Study of Proverbs 31 - Week #7 - Willing to Work<div style="text-align: justify;">
"She seeks wool, and flax, and works willingly with her hands." - Proverbs 31:13</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Webster's Dictionary - Willing: inclined or favorably disposed in mind; prompt to act or respond; done by choice or without reluctance. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Strong's Concordance - Willingly: pleasure, desire, delight, purpose</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Being willing to work does not mean working just because it is our duty or job, but because it is our pleasure, desire, and purpose. </u></div>
<br />
1. Genesis 2:15 - man was created to work, to keep the garden<br />
2. Ruth 2 - she asked to work, to gather food for Naomi, and worked all day long<br />
3. Psalm 128:1-2 - those who fear God will labor with their hands and enjoy the fruit of it<br />
4. Proverbs 10:16 - righteous labor tends to life<br />
5. Proverb 14:23 - labor produces more profit than talk<br />
6. Proverbs 21:25 - refusing to work will cause your desires to destroy you<br />
7. Ephesians 4:28 - don't steal; rather, work for yourself and so that you may bless others<br />
8. Colossians 3:17 - whatever we do, we should do it with a thankful heart, and for the Lord<br />
9. Colossians 3:22-24 - we should work with a good attitude, to please the Lord<br />
10. 1 Thessalonians 4:11 - work with your own hands<br />
11. 2 Thessalonians 3:8 - Paul continued to work day and night, even on his missionary journeys, so as not to be a burden to the people he was with<br />
12. 2 Thessalonians 3:10-12 - those who don't work should not eat<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Why is it our pleasure to work? Because God created humanity with the purpose of working, of tending the land. To labor with our hands is a way to fear (reverence) God, and those who do so will enjoy the fruits of their labor. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Whatever work we do, we should do it with a thankful heart and a good attitude, because in the end we are serving the Lord and not just man. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We ought to work so that we are not dependent on others and so that we may be able to help others. Even Paul, a great and renowned missionary, worked on his journeys to set an example and not be a burden to the people he was there to help. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Ruth is another excellent example; she <u>asked</u> to be able to work and provide food for Naomi and herself, and worked in the fields from morning till night. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Refusing to work will simply cause our desires to destroy us; hard work produces more profit than empty talk. Righteous labor leads to a good and happy life. </div>
Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05094522949598302175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074643670736118000.post-34187948067942062502017-12-19T08:36:00.003-05:002017-12-19T08:36:47.397-05:00Study of Provbers 31 - Week #6 - Self-Sacrificing<div style="text-align: justify;">
"She will do <u>him</u> good and not evil all the days of her life." - v.12</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
"She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat <u>to her household</u>, and a portion <u>to her maidens</u>." - v.15</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
"She stretcheth out her hand <u>to the poor</u>; yea, she reacheth forth her hands <u>to the needy.</u>" - v.20</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>A godly woman is self-sacrificing.</u> She does her husband good, not just herself. She provides for her household and servants, not just herself. She gives to those in need instead of selfishly hoarding her resources. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Webster's Dictionary - Sacrifice: offering up something precious; surrender of something for the sake of something else; something given up</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>To be self-sacrificing is to offer up ourselves (don't we all view ourselves as precious?), to surrender our desires and wants for the sake of others. </u></div>
<br />
1. Matthew 5:38-42 - we ought not to get even or get our just deserts, but rather to sacrifice for others<br />
2. Matthew 10:39 - we must lose our life for Christ's sake<br />
3. Matthew 16:25-26 - we must lose our life to find it in Him<br />
4. Mark 8:35-36 - we must lose our life to save it<br />
5. Luke 9:24-25 - what advantage is the whole world if we lose our soul?<br />
6. John 12:25 - we must lose our earthly life to keep our eternal life<br />
7. John 15:12-13 - Jesus displayed the greatest love by laying down His life for us<br />
8. Acts 20:24 - we should not count our own life as dear as serving others<br />
9. Romans 12:1 - we ought to sacrifice our bodies to God<br />
10. 1st Corinthians 13:5 - love does not seek its own benefit<br />
11. Ephesians 5:2 - to walk in love is to sacrifice for others<br />
12. Philippians 2:17 - it is a joy to sacrifice for others<br />
13. 1st John 3:16 - we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Jesus is the ultimate example of self-sacrificing love, in that he laid down His own life in order to save ours. If we seek to save our own life, we will lose it, but if we lose it for Christ's sake, we will find eternal life in Him. What advantage is the whole world if we lose our soul? So,w e should surrender our own selves for the sake of Christ. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Once we are surrendered to Christ, we ought also to sacrifice ourselves for others, because this is an example of true love, which does not seek its own benefit. Though we may want to look out for ourselves and get our "just deserts", real joy will come as we treat serving others as more important than serving ourselves. </div>
Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05094522949598302175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074643670736118000.post-60398225569716144072017-12-12T10:35:00.000-05:002017-12-12T10:35:33.454-05:00Study of Proverbs 31 - Week #5 - Committed"She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life." - Proverbs 31:12<br />
<br />
<u>A godly woman is committed - all the days of her life.</u> <br />
<br />
Webster's Dictionary - Committed - having made a pledge to someone or something<br />
<br />
Commit - to carry through to completion<br />
<br />
1. Ecclesiastes 7:8 - the end is better than the beginning; be patient till then<br />
2. Luke 9:62 - those who look back are not fit for the kingdom of God<br />
3. Romans 2:6-8 - those who continue in well-doing will receive eternal life<br />
4. 1 Corinthians 13:7 - love endures all things<br />
5. Galatians 6:9-10 - do not grow weary of well-doing<br />
6. 2 Thessalonians 3:13 - do not grow weary of well-doing, even if others take advantage of you<br />
7. 2 Timothy 2:3 - endure as a good soldier<br />
8. Hebrews 6:13-15 - those who patiently endure will receive the promise<br />
9. Hebrews 10:38-39 - those who draw back from the faith give God no pleasure<br />
10. James 5:11 - those that endure are happy<br />
11. 2 Peter 2:20-22 - those who return to their sinful ways would have been better off never knowing the truth<br />
<br />
The Bible speaks strongly of those who begin to follow God, but turn back - they are not fit for the kingdom of God, they give God no pleasure, and they would have been better off never having known the truth. Our first and strongest commitment needs to be that of following God.<br />
<br />
We must endure to the end as a good soldier does, because love endures all things. Those that endure to the end will be happy and will receive the promise of eternal life. No matter how exciting and trilling the beginning of a new venture is, the bringing of it to completion is so much more fulfilling - be patient till the end!<br />
<br />
Even if others take advantage of us or do not appreciate us, even if the days are long and dreary, we should not grow weary of well doing - in good timing, we WILL reap the benefits!Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05094522949598302175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074643670736118000.post-38881662872257266952017-12-05T09:18:00.000-05:002017-12-05T09:18:03.608-05:00Study of Proverbs 31 - Week #4 - Trustworthy<div style="text-align: justify;">
"The heart of her husband does safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil." - Proverbs 31:11</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Webster's Dictionary - Trust: assured reliance on the character, ability, strength, or truth of someone or something</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Strong's Concordance - Trust: to trust, have confidence, be bold, be secure</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The husband of a godly woman has confidence and security in the character, abilities, and truth of his wife, and knowing that he can trust her gives him boldness. </div>
<br />
1. Proverbs 11:13 - is discreet in what information is given out<br />
2. Proverbs 13:17 - brings healing<br />
3. Proverbs 14:5 - does not lie<br />
4. Proverbs 20:6 - a truly trusty person is hard to find<br />
5. Proverbs 25:13 - is refreshing to those who trust in you<br />
6. Proverbs 25:19 - unfaithfulness will be like a broken foot to those who trust in you<br />
7. Psalm 31:23 - the Lord preserves the faithful<br />
8. Luke 6:10 - is faithful in matters for big and small<br />
9. 1 Corinthians 4:1-2 - we are required to be faithful stewards of God<br />
10. 1 Timothy 3:11 - deacon's wives ought to be faithful in all things<br />
11. James 5:12 - be true to your word<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It is hard to find a truly trustworthy person; but, we are stewards of all God has given us and as such we are required to be faithful with it. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A trustworthy person is faithful in all matters, both great and small, no matter who is watching or what rewards will come. They never lie, but are also discreet about what information they share - they are not a gossip. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Unfaithfulness will be like a broken foot to those who trust in you, hindering them from their own work and causing pain. But, true faithfulness will be refreshing to those who trust in you and will bring healing. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A deacon's wife specifically ought to be faithful in all things but truly any man would be desirous of a trustworthy wife, because her reliability will be of great benefit to them both. God also will preserve those who are trustworthy and faithful to Him. </div>
Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05094522949598302175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9074643670736118000.post-41642010595966062222017-11-28T08:49:00.000-05:002017-11-28T08:49:30.534-05:00Study of Proverbs 31 - Week #3 - Virtuous<u>A godly woman is virtuous.</u><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
"Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies." - Proverbs 31:10</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Strong's Concordance: Virtuous - an army, a force; strength, valor, ability. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Webster's Dictionary: having virtue; morally excellent; chaste. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
To be virtuous is to have moral excellence, and to be a force of strength, valor, and ability. </div>
<br />
1. 2 Samuel 22:33 - God is our strength<br />
2. Psalm 18:39 - God gives us the strength to battle<br />
3. Psalm 33:16-17, 49:6 - We are not saved by our own virtue and strength<br />
4. Psalm 60:12, 108:13 - God enables us to be virtuous because he defeats our enemies<br />
5. Proverbs 12:4 - A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband<br />
6. Proverbs 31:3 - Don't waste your virtue on things that destroy you and take you away from God<br />
7. Habbakuk 3:19 - God is our strength and will help us to be virtuous<br />
8. Philippians 4:8 - Think about virtuous things<br />
9. 2 Peter 1:3 - We are called to be virtuous, and through the knowledge of Him we have the power to do so<br />
10. 2 Peter 1:5 - Add virtue to your faith<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>I was surprised by the meaning of "virtuous" in Proverbs 31:10.</u> I expected it to mean "moral excellence" but only three times is that definition used (Phil 4:8, 2Pet 1:3, 2Pet 1:5). All the other references to "virtue" or "virtuous" are this "army, force, strength" that is talked about in Proverbs.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
At the beginning of Proverbs 31, Solomon is warned not to throw away his strength and virtue on an adulterous woman, by implication anything that will destroy you and distance you from God. Instead, he is told to find a wife who also has strength, valor, and moral excellence. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We are to add moral excellence to our faith, and meditate on excellent things. If we are virtuous, we will be a crown to our husbands, and to God.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
However, it is not by our own strength and virtue that we are saved. God has called us to virtue, and it is through the knowledge of Him that we have the power to do so. He defeats our enemies, gives us strength, and lifts us up to virtue. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Virtue is the summation of all the rest of the characteristics displayed by a Godly woman. </div>
Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05094522949598302175noreply@blogger.com0