Day By Day

Where Have True Ladies Gone? A Letter To Christian Young Women

2010-03-12T10:49:00.000-08:00

On September 6, 1620 the Mayflower set sail for the new world. An important decision had come to these departing families as to whether or not women should make the long and difficult voyage. In the end, eighteen married women joined their husbands and children in the dangerous journey; three of whom were in their last trimester of pregnancy. Seventy – eight percent of these women would die that first winter.
Why did they go? It is because they were real women, strong women, and God fearing women- ladies of virtue. They loved their husbands, children, and Creator more than their own lives and sought His will above what was comfortable or safe. They made the journey so that while they may die, others might live and serve God Almighty without fear.

To read the rest, follow the link to our new blog:
http://followingdaybyday.wordpress.com/2010/03/12/where-have-true-ladies-gone-a-letter-to-christian-young-women/

Good - bye

2009-11-23T19:10:00.000-08:00

I've had this blog for a little over a year now and it has been such a growing experience for me. But...due to some problems I've had with blogger I got a WordPress and will no longer be posting here. I'm not deleting this blog as I want to leave what I've already done but I hope you will all visit me and my sister @

http://followingdaybyday.wordpress.com/

We haven't posted yet but will be doing so in the near future!

To God be the Glory!

Lydia

Family Pictures

2009-08-11T18:10:00.000-07:00

My family rarely sits down and takes a family picture. Usually it's only once a year for our Christmas cards but our Nana told us all she wanted for her birthday was a picture of our family(we don't live near each other :(
It took us a few times to get it right but it was allot of fun! I love being apart of such an awesome family!

This was our best one! It's hard to take a picture of 7 people with a 3 year old.

Individuals...I like theses. We thought we would go ahead since we were out there.

Cutest little boy!
Model!
Handsome :D
She's so pretty. My best friend.
And me...

Friends...

2009-07-20T15:24:00.000-07:00

Two families from our church moved an hour or so away to live in the country. This weekend we were able to go see their homes and spend time with them. It was allot of fun seeing them again. Their children are SO cute!

This is sisters Isabelle(blue shirt) and Sophia(pink dress) Me and my sister Miriam are towards the back
Pushing Isabelle on the rope swing...
Sophia swinging
My sister Naomi and Isabelle sit on the porch rail while talking to Sophia. My brother Daniel is looking down and talking to little Moses.
Isabelle, Naomi, and I
Naomi, me, and Sophia
My sister Miriam, me holding my brother Nathan, and Isabelle

This is me with Josiah after playing a game of 'Jail tree'
Isabelle and Nathan by the chicken coop

Isabelle and Callie

Miriam and Isabelle
This is my mother holding baby James

There were allot of us all together and I didn't get a picture of everyone...let me give you an idea of the three families together.

my family:
Father - Jim/Mother -Gwynne
Me(Lydia) 17
Naomi 14
Daniel 13
Miriam 9
Nathan 3

Father - Stuart/Mother - Micah
Isabelle 5
Sophia 3
Seth 1
James 3 weeks

Father - Paul/Mother - Deirdre
Caroline 11
Caleb 9
Josiah 7
Stephen 5
Moses 3
Noah 1
pregnant

Creation Museum

2009-06-28T20:33:00.001-07:00

Today my family and I had to great opportunity of visiting the Creation Museum. It was wonderful. All of you should make an effort to go. Here are a few pictures of our trip.

Getting ready to leave.

These are my best friends...well we try to be. I'm oldest, 17. My sister Naomi is 14. My brother Daniel will be 13 next week! Miriam is 9 and Nathan is 3.

Seeking Modesty and Femininty Part Seven

2009-06-20T19:26:00.001-07:00

Saturday, the last day I'll be posting pictures. I really enjoyed doing it and will continue to wear skirts often. I hope many of you will do this 7 day challenge and I'll be sure to look at all your pictures. Remember as theses summer months come to fear the Lord and be mindful of our dress as we seek to please and honor God rather than ourselves(man).

I got my skirt from http://www.denimskirts.com/. My shirt was from Old Navy. What was really exciting about this shirt was I saw it at the beginning of last summer for over $20. Later that year I went shopping and found this one on a sale rack for $4! Taking the time to go through last years stuff is so worth it!

My hair doesn't curl well but I try. I wanted to try something new.

Seeking Modesty and Femininty Part Six

2009-06-19T19:06:00.001-07:00

Friday....

I worked as a secretary at our church again today. I tried to dress nicely but wore my hair up because I live in the south and it's REALLY hot here. It was fun and Mrs. Missy, the job is going great. I love it! Still I"m looking forward to next week being slower and just spending time with Mommy getting ready for vacation.

The skirt was from the Children's Gap store. The shirt is from Kohls. If you have not noticed I really like that store. The shoes are Old Navy.

Seeking Modesty and Femininty Part Five

2009-06-18T14:43:00.001-07:00

Thursday...

We bought this outfit at Academy Sports store.

Pay Less is my favorite shoe right now. They have all kinds of different styles in different colors. This week I have been trained as a secretary at our church and today I went in to practice again. Wearing shoes like this made me a little more formal and professional looking.

My sister taught me how to do this. It's really simple. Make a ponytail and then bring it up and fold it under.

Seeking Modesty and Femininty Part Four

2009-06-17T18:35:00.001-07:00

Wednesday...

This skirt was bought at a second hand store and the shirt was on sale at Kohls department store.

I really enjoy doing my hair curly. My hair does not have much body or wavy on its own so I have to put lots of chemicals to get it to look like this but hot rollers help.

Seeking Modesty and Femininty Part Three

2009-06-17T06:46:00.000-07:00

Tuesday...

I got the shirt and the skirt on sale from different places. To make them go together I put a brown tank underneath. I do that allot because it's a great way to make your shirt come higher and helps bring your outfit together.

I had fun with this hair style. I've really liked the poof girls have been doing on the top of their head but I hadn't been able to get it to work until recently. I simply began to make a half up pony tail but with less hair so it would hold and began to clip it. When I liked it I sprayed about a pound of hair spray and it stayed all day.

About a year ago I probably would have been caught dead wearing an apron. Recently and since being 'in style' had become less and less important to me I've started wearing them when I serve or around the house for cleaning so I won't get my clothes dirty. I got this apron when I served at a wedding. I wore it because I was cleaning to get ready for a girl's Bible study we were having that evening. That was last night and it was wonderful.

Seeking Modesty and Femininty Part Two

2009-06-16T14:07:00.000-07:00

Alright, Monday, Day Two

My white skirt is just like the black one I wore Sunday which I bought also at Old Navy. The shirt was was from a second hand store. I've never really worn anything like it before and really enjoyed the way it brought in my waist.

My hair...I call this style a scruntchy bun. It's very easy. All you do is take your wet hair and pull it up and tie a rubber band around it. Use bobby pins to help hold it.
This isn't the best picture. What I do like so much about it is the fact that it is an easy way for days when i don't have time for anything else.

Monday afternoon I played in the backyard with my little brother and that night I had to babysit so i took a shower and changed into something comfortable and simple. This picture of my hair is kind of funny. It's my silly try at a french braid. I can't do them but I thought it still looked a little cute so went with it.

I got my skirt at:
http://www.denimskirts.com/lodeskre.html?gclid=CPyr1KHcj5sCFRIhnAodQVlIpQ
The t - shirt was something I had from a youth event. I love t - skirts for casual events because they are modest and comfortable for doing whatever you want to do.

Seeking Modesty and Femininty

2009-06-15T21:22:00.000-07:00

I heard about this challenge(wearing only skirts for 7 days). I didn't think it would be too hard because I wear skirts mostly anyway. What is fun is taking pictures everyday and doing my hair differently. Also my mother and sister are doing it with me. She is posting her pictures on her blog, "Here I Stand"

So here is Sunday...Day One

My close up. I did my hair very simply. I just blow dry it and straiten it on a low setting. I just cut five inches off for a summer look and really like finding things to do with it after having long hair for a long time. Sunglasses are also a really cute way to add to an outfit.

Full shot. I got my shirt on sale from Kohls department store. I like how loose it is on me yet I think still looks very nice. It is very comfortable and high so I don't feel exposed when I bend over. My skirt is an wide elastic waist knee length skirt from Old Navy.

I do wear heels sometimes but I feel like shoes like this are less distracting for Sunday morning, easier to walk in, and dressy at the same time. We got this pair for a very reasonable price at Wal Mart.

My best friends. This is right after we got home from church Sunday morning.

One Sunday a month we have an evening service. I wore the same skirt as I did that morning only chose a more casual shirt. I took parts of my hair and clipped them to the side so it would look a little different though you really can't tell in the picture. I chose flat black and white tennis shoes. Hope you enjoy looking at my pictures throughout the week.

40 Questions

2009-06-14T19:47:00.000-07:00

1- Have you been asked out?
Not directly, thankfully.

2 - Where was your default picture taken?
Um, my house

3 - What's your middle name?
Elizabeth

4 - Your current relationship status?
A daughter, sister, and Child of Christ

5 - What's the first thing you do when you wake up from a nap?
stretch (what kind of question is that?)

6 - What is your current mood?
Happy!
8 - What color shirt are you wearing?
It's complicated...black and white plaid with red accents...(you'd have to see it)

9 - Missing something?
I'm always missing something! My sunglasses, my moonlight path body spray, several ponytails, my brown go under shirts tank top, you get the picture...it's sad.

10 - If you could go back in time and change something, what would you do?
Change what happened in
Roe V. Wade

11 - If you must be an animal for one day, what would you be?
A clown fish!

12 - Ever had a near death experience?
Nothing drama but I thank God that I'm still here. Life is so fragile.

13 - Something you do a lot?
Write books

14 - The song stuck in your head?
Hallelujah what a Savior! Only because I hear it coming over the monitor from my little brother and sister's room.

15 - Least favorite household chore?
Laundry!

16 - Name someone with the same birthday as you.
I've never met someone with November 28th, tell me if you do!

17 - When was the last time you cried?
idk, I don't cry allot. Probably at a funeral.

18 - Have you ever sung in front of a large audience?
Yes, when I was ten or so I sang a solo for our church(no one has asked me to do it since then! I wonder why?)

19 - If you could have one super power what would it be?
Is traveling in time a super power? That's all I'd ever want to do!

20 - What's the first thing you notice about the opposite sex?
well, I guess how they present them self. Like if they're sloppy or neat, kind or a bully, punkish or gentlemanly,

21 - What do you usually order from Starbucks?
strawberry frappuccino

22 - What's your biggest secret
Why would I post my deepest secret for the entire world to look at?

23- What's your favorite color?
Every color. I can't choose one!

24 - Do you still watch kiddie shows or tv shows?
with my little brother or sister

25 - What's on your walls?
China Stuff from my mission trip
26 - What are you?
A girl, a stay at home daughter, a Christian, it could go on and on
(come to think of it that's a strange question to. Who writes this?

27 - Do you speak any other language?
Not fluently... Definitely not fluently...

28 - What's your favorite smell?
Can you have one? Bath and Body store, summer, spring, winter, fall, baking, candles, linens, shampoo, fresh earth, roses,

29 - Describe your life in one word
I'm a wordy person. I can't describe everything in one little word!

30 - Have you ever kissed in the rain?
I hope I will someday...I'm saving it so it better be special

31 - What are you thinking about right now?
This quiz, I rarely multi task

33 - What should you be doing?
Sleeping...I have a busy day tomorrow

34 - Who was the last person that made you upset/angry?
Do I have to answer...I guess not this is my blog and my quiz

35 - How often do you talk to God?
Whenever I feel like it. When I'm sad, when I'm happy, when I'm mad, When I'm sorry, When I'm lonely, when I'm excited, I'm so glad I can do that!

36 - Do you like working in the yard?
I love it!

37 - If you could have any last name in the world, what would you want?
idk, I'm pretty happy with the one God gave me for now. As long as I never have a horrid one I'm good...

39 - What is your natural hair color?
brown

40- What do you want to be when you grow up?
Whatever God wants me to be. I've found most joy surrendering to His will!

Black, Gray, or White Part 2

2009-04-06T10:39:00.001-07:00

In my last post I talked about how some things may be clearer in the Bible than we sometimes pretend. If we are commanded to live in purity, consider what that is and live in purity.
But there will always be issues that God will call you to and never, ever call someone else to. My dad read this to us at our family devotions last night and I wanted to share it because I thought it was so good

Others May––But You Cannot
If God has called you to be really like Jesus in all your spirit, He will draw you into a life
of crucifixion and humility, and put on you such demands of obedience that He will not
allow you to follow other Christians, and in many ways He will seem to let other good
people do things which He will not let you do.
Other Christians and ministers who seem very religious and useful may push
themselves, pull wires, and work schemes to carry out their plans, but you cannot do it;
and if you attempt it, you will meet with such failure and rebuke from the Lord as to
make you sorely penitent.
Others can brag on themselves, on their work, on their success, on their writings, but
the Holy Spirit will not allow you to do any such thing, and if you begin it He will lead
you into some deep mortification that will make you despise yourself and all your good
works.
Others will be allowed to succeed in making money, or having a legacy left to them, or
in having luxuries, but it is likely that God will keep you poor, because He wants you to
have something better than gold, and that is a helpless dependence on Him, that He
may have the privilege of supplying your needs day by day out of an unseen treasury.
The Lord will let others be honored and put forward, and keep you hid away in
obscurity, because He wants to produce some choice, fragrant fruit for His coming
glory, which can only be produced in the shade.
He will let others be great, but keep you small. He will let others do a work for Him,
and get the credit for it, but He will make you work and toil on without knowing how
much you are doing; and then to make your work still more precious, He will let others
get the credit for the work which you have done, and this will make your reward ten
times greater when Jesus comes. The Holy Spirit will put a strict watch over you, with a
jealous love, and will rebuke you for little words and feeling or for wasting your time,
which other Christians never seem distressed over. So make up your mind that God is
an infinite Sovereign, and has a right to do as He pleases with His own, and He will not
explain to you a thousand things which may puzzle your reason in His dealings with
you.
He will take you at your word, and if you absolutely sell yourself to be His slave, He will wrap you up in a jealous love and let other people say and do many things that you
cannot do or say. Settle it forever, that you are to deal directly with the Holy Spirit and
that He is to have the privilege of tying your tongue, or chaining your hand, or closing
your eyes in ways that He does not deal with others. Now when you are so possessed
with the living God that you are, in your secret heart, pleased and delighted over this
peculiar, personal, private, jealous guardianship and management of the Holy Spirit
over your life, you will have found the vestibule of heaven.
––The Biblical Evangelist

I have felt this way many times yet, in God's mercy He has brought me to love His will more and more so that it seems much less bothersome but joyful. The more we submit the more He will ask and the more we will be made like Him, which means our desires will change to be more like Him and we will love this change in us.
I was asked about clothing and honestly I can't wait to deal with it. I wanted to pray about what to say for a few days and then I'll do another post.

Black, Gray, or White

2009-04-03T08:37:00.000-07:00

As New Testament Christians, we are not under the law that Israel was under. We are under grace. And while I am grateful for that in many ways it can be difficult to understand what is black, gray or white. What do we do about issues that are not necessarily bad? What is wrong? And what is right?
There are three ways to deal with this, two of which are wrong. There are those who make a long list and on it put everything they can and can not do. This is legalistic and not good for one to do to oneself and definitely wrong to try to conform everyone else to their list. This is not to say that making rules for certain occasions isn’t good. When you go to summer camp you want everyone covered. When you go to a class you don’t want to have to look at something inappropriate. But to make a list of do’s and don’ts for your life and then decide this is law is wrong. It doesn’t help you or others do anything but be legalistic and degrading.
Another solution to throw the list out to window and live like God will forgive everything. Do whatever you want and if your fall into sin God will forgive you. It’s a, “I’m saved by grace and only need John 3:16,” theology. Welcome a life of spiritual complacency. You never seek God's will of His character which is perfection.
We are called to be holy and to conform to His will.
“That each one of you knows how to control his own body in holiness and honor, not in the passion of lust like the Gentiles who do not know God.” Thessalonians 4:4
If you don’t understand or think holiness is that important I suggest you spend time every day for the next week going through a concordance, looking up, and writing every verse that talks about holiness. It will really cause you to see how important it is to God because He is holy and isn’t this pop god that wears cool T-shirts and speaks like a punk. If you were to see His face you would fall dead. That’s how holy our God is and if you are seeking to be like Him, you will find the pleasures of the world become less, and less appealing.
But where do you draw the line? How do we know what T-shirts are fine and which one’s degrade God’s holiness? What is the too much TV and is it even ok? How do I know what to pull out of the Old Testament and in what ways am I no longer bound? Some of you may think the Bible is vague but maybe you just need to read it and think. To look at the big picture; which includes the Old and New Testament.
Man sinned; we are no longer holy but made enemies of God. God knew we could not obey all the laws so he showed us. His standards are just too high for us to even imagine keeping. So he promised a Messiah, in His awesome grace and mercy. He sent His son, who died and rose and command that we be His witlessness over all the earth. Are the shows you watch, clothes you wear, activities you participate in, behaviors you represent, bring others to God, or draw them astray. I think most Christians who think they are trying to just, “connect” are really bring a stumbling block and that’s why we have so many mediocre Christians in America.
“Do not be conformed to this world,” conformed – have nothing to do with. Different. Called out.
“But be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12:2
“As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passion of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, “You shall be holy for I am holy.” 1 Peter 1:14-16
God is big enough to bring those to himself without you lowering your standards and trying to please men and attract them to faith. He calls you to be different and strive for holiness. Holiness, holiness…
“And one called to another and said, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is filled with His glory!” Isaiah 6:3
Love the lost, pray for them, but don’t conform. And yes, they will think you are judging them and that you are legalistic. But that is what is going to draw out the true Christians from flakes that are swayed by every wind of doctrine. Speak to them in love, faith, and purity, and talk to them of things you enjoy. But Please Do NOT be close friends with then and DO NOT conform to their dress, behaviors, or hobbies. That is Satan’s lie that he wants to use to stray you away from the pursuit of holiness. And if God wills he can us you to bring the lost to Him when they see that you are dead serious. You have the precious privilege of being a child of the King of Kings. Don’t be ashamed or lower that privilege to something less than it is.
Gray areas – I’d like to finish with the gray areas. God has everyone in different places in their life. That’s ok. Don’t look down on someone if they don’t know as much as you and despise someone who knows more than you. We are to teach each other in faith and love. That’s why God set up the church. Because He knew we needed each other to function. Be teachable and be willing to teach others. There will be things that others are not ready for and God may never bring them there. Different people stumble from different things. My family does not have cable TV in our home. We can only watch movies that we bring in. This is to protect us and I think it’s wonderful. Whenever I go somewhere and watch a little TV in a hotel or something I thank God we don’t have TV in our home. I don’t know of another person in our church that does the same. I can’t go around and tell people that they should get ride of cable TV because it helps my mind stay pure. I can share it in testimony but then have to wait for God to move the way He wants in their lives, not the way I want.
But I believe there are lots of things people just place into this category because they feel like it and don’t what to risk giving it up. But the Bible is a lot clearer then we sometimes pretend. I’m just going to close with sharing a few things I’ve heard people say are a matter of conviction that I think are not.
Body piercing, tattoos, drinking, chewing, smoking – The Bible never says, “Do not do any other these things. But people are sinful and prone to sinful things so they say it’s ok and make up dumb excuses like “Rebecca was given a nose ring. IN that culture it was not a sign of rebellion as it is in ours but an adornment. It probably wasn’t even pierced. Abraham’s servant did it to bless her like putting on a necklace. Don’t be fooled into thinking it was just like what girl’s sport around on their face today.”
“Jesus drank wine,” which was probably similar to our punch.
“Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise.” Proverbs 20:1
And we must remember that as Christians our bodies are the temple of the holy Spirit. Not some dummy we can carve up. The Bible commands us to take care of our bodies. I think if Jesus thought that kind of thing would help bring people to the Lord or was ok for His followers to do He would have done it himself. Please don't degrade your body in that way.
“God doesn’t day you don’t date. It’s just a matter of conviction on how much you touch before your wedding. As long as you don’t have sex or anything.” I totally disagree with this because,
“It is good for a man not to have sexual relations with a woman.” 1 Corinthians 7:1ESV
However the NKJV goes as far to say, “It is good for a man not to touch a woman!”
Paul is talking to a troubled church. Sound familiar? It was a church in a very lost city with corruption and legalism and those who are not seeking God’s holiness but their own standards. Before marriage, which is a picture of Christ’s love for His bride, the church, he wants us to stay pure in every way.
(It is all over the Bible. There are too many verses to mention.) When we take the intimacies, from least all the way to sex, out of marriage we are distorting this beautiful picture and being a horrible witness.
“Let no one despise you because of your youth, but set an example to believers in speech (that’s your language) in conduct (how do you present yourself) in love (are you loving to the lost as well as your family) in faith (do people see you as a young person of faith) and in purity (do you give an example to purity to the older and younger in your church).
Do people look at you with respect or are you just another young person older couples shake their heads at. Let not one despise you, but set an example.
The last is clothing. This is so important. The Bible tells over and over again in the New Testament how women, especially, should behave and dress. In my post several months ago, “Girls,” I share theses verses with their Greek meaning. I have heard girls say over and over again that it’s ok to be stylish and wear the newest trends but I think the Bible is very clear that it’s not! I don’t promote dork squad but how can you be immersed in fashions and spending all that money and still dress in a modest, feminine, manor. As Stacy MacDonald says, (paraphrased) “If you dress like a police officer, don’t be surprised if people think you are a police officer. If you dress in maternity clothes, don’t be surprised if others think you’re pregnant. If you dress like you’re loose, people will think that of you. You may be a virgin and a woman sincerely seeking after God but when you dress like the world you are lying about God’s character to the world in which you are trying to witness in.”
You can be sincerely wrong. Choose not to be. Immerse yourself in God’s word and listen to those who have gone before you so you can present yourself like Paul commanded Timothy to. Do nothing that would cause another to sin and do not lower the standards God has given you in His word. Yet do not judge, lest you yourself be judged. In all submission seek holiness and in all love be a shining light of God’s grace to the world. If I am unclear please tell me.

Beside Still Waters...

2009-03-02T19:40:00.000-08:00

A Psalm of David. The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. Psalm 23:1-2

Ok, I know I've been a terrible blogger for the past several months. I had been planning to post something about what I believe when a person is saved and if they choose God or God chooses them but my computer broke down and my outline was on there and I never got around to starting a new one. However if my documents are recovered I will post it.
I just wanted to share what had been going on in my life. I'm taking my GED so the state will no longer consider me a student. Last Thursday was my first class and I absolutely hated it. I had never, ever been in a class room before other than at my church and on my first day I was asked so many questions about why I was homeschooled, why I didn't date, why I wasn't going to college, and then the strange look when I said I just wanted to be a stay at home mom.
I felt overwhelmed and wanted to just stay home all weekend and not ever go back. A guy had asked me for my phone number and if we could be friends and this was the very first time that's ever happened to me. I didn't want to be mean but I see my relationship with boys now and how I treat them as if I and they were already married, because we all will be one day and I must treat them as someone else's mate. Not my buddy. So I felt down. Everyone was nice, it is just so hard being different. I told one of my friends about my first day and she laughed and said, "That sounds so funny coming from you." Then she went on to ask what on earth I was wearing. I told her a long skirt and a modest sweater and she just laughed more.
I prayed Sunday about what I should do. I didn't want to go back but there seemed no way out. God seemed to remind me I wasn't promised tomorrow and these people may be the last lost people I ever have a chance to shine Christ's light to. So I prayed and prayed. I asked that God would let less of me show and He would shine out. I went back this morning and felt so blessed. I did well with my work and I only talked to other girls and they were very nice to me. I felt so grateful. I'm asking God to please continue to let things be like this but if not pray that I will have the strength to tell them what I believe with boldness and cheerfulness.
I want to bring God glory in all that I do and I know this is only for a season. And God will help me through it until I'm able to return to the security of my home and continue in my work here.

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.
Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.
Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, and having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE; in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.
And take THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints, and pray on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in the opening of my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, Eph. 6:10-19

I love the LORD, because He hears My voice and my supplications Because He has inclined His ear to me, Therefore I shall call upon Him as long as I live.
Psalm 116:1-2

This is so funny

2009-02-08T18:51:00.000-08:00

Photo Tag
I've been tagged by joygirl.

All you need to do is:

1. Choose the 4th folder where you store pictures on your computer.
2. Select the 4th picture in the folder.
3. Explain the picture.
4. Tag four people to do the same.
5. No cheating (cropping, editing, etc.)

I tag - (sorry but i did more than four)

http://unhiddenlight.blogspot.com/2009/02/tip-on-memorizing-numbers.html
http://hereistand-naomi.blogspot.com/
http://maidenofpurity.blogspot.com/2009/02/why-are-we-mocked.html
http://mylittlecornerforthoughts.blogspot.com/2009/02/10-commandments-4.html
http://livingforhim2.blogspot.com/2009/02/being-faithful-to-end.html
http://livingforhim-hannah.blogspot.com/

ok, this might be strange to many of you, but yes this is the picture I had in my fourth folder and all that. I like to write books and I was writing one about the sinking of the Titanic in 1912. I went on the internet and found several pictures from that time. This is Captain Smith, who sailed the mighty ship and eventually went down with it. So this is the picture I had in my picture folder, the fourth folder, another fourth folder, and the fourth picture.

New Blog

2009-02-02T15:28:00.000-08:00

I really hate that I haven't been posting. God's been doing so much and there is so much to say and I had a post all together but found it might be offensive to many of you (as what my family has been learning is very anti what the world teaches about women) and I really didn't feel like getting in an internet argument again. So I'm working on something else for now.

New Blog...

Well, it really isn't new. I redid my picture blog and decided to make it a blog about clothing and modesty. I'll most likely be working on my new blog more than day by day for awhile.
I want to post pictures and goals on dressing more modestly. I hope you'll all check it out.

In His Name, To God be forever glory,
Lydia

"The Faithful"

2009-01-14T06:55:00.000-08:00

My sister and I fell in love with and were very moved by this song about those who die for Christ. We made a video to go with it and I wanted to share what we did. I hope it blesses and inspires you.

No Greater Love

2008-12-09T16:27:00.000-08:00

No Greater Love
My first nudge from you was so great,
I said to myself, “I can hardly wait.”
This tiny form inside of me-
I say over again, “Can this miracle be?”

The first time I held you- Oh what joy!
My first son; a baby boy.
Others came from far and near,
The star that night was, my, so clear.

Next thing I knew pattering feet went by,
You grew so fast I could cry.
I wish to hold you near forever;
Not to ever let you go- no never.

A boy of wisdom and of stature,
You could not have matured faster.
You were in favor with God and men;
I did not realize how soon this would end.

You became a man all too soon,
Fading from my grip like the waning moon.
You drew crowds to your side,
Not even in the wilderness could you hide.

You made me tremble when you came-
What had changed? You still bore the same name;
Why did some say, “The Messiah has come!”
While other hearts remained void and numb.

The miracles you did, things you said-
“Was it I who was misled?”
Perhaps my view of you was wrong,
You are so bold, so very strong.

But, oh, dear Son- you must be careful,
I am forever prayerful;
Don’t you see! They wish to kill!
It is your blood they wish to spill.

And spill blood they did,
From you all friends hid.
You died a death no criminal should,
Paid the price no other could.

However three days later I began to see;
You rose up in victory.
My human knowledge is so weak,
You have made my brokenness complete.

You are not mine to own,
It is for my sin you did atone.
What a hard and weary path I trod;
Until You became my Son,
My Priest, my Lord, my God.

Random Thoughts

2008-11-19T09:55:00.000-08:00

Dear Blog Friends,

Over the past two weeks I’ve hardly been on the computer but I hope to start emailing and posting more often again.
So there was Thanksgiving and then on the 28th of November I had my 17th birthday. 17 has always been a funny number to me. Right in between sweet 16 and the big 18. But this birthday was very special to me in many was. As I was preparing for another birthday several weeks before I suddenly realized how I really hadn’t thought about my birthday much this year. As a child I hated having my birthday on the 28th because I had to wait all month until the day. Almost as soon as November came I would go ahead and call myself my new age. This year I committed to never say I was 17 until the day. I must admit it was fun when we went to the mall the day after and for the first time I told someone when they asked how old I was, “I’m six…seventeen.”
But what was really so important to me this birthday? Several weeks ago as we had the Lord’s supper at our church I was praying and felt God tell me He wanted me to set aside this next year of my life completely sold out to Him. I asked Him what He meant and I knew I needed to make a list of goals for this year. One was to put romance on the back burner. Not that I’ve ever dated or anything but to focus on Him as the love of my life instead of very often daydreaming about future love. It wasn’t until I gave my dreams up and decided to stop thinking about that stuff that I realized how much I really did. Like those people who say, “I’m not addicted to smoking.” “Oh yeah, then why do you smoke 5 packs a day.” Well, I’ve given my future to God and I’m not going to daydream my days away on what might be. Not that I think it’s always wrong to desire and plan for the future but God showed me I thought about it too much.
Another thing is books. I’m addicted to them. God showed me I didn’t love the Bible as much as I should so every other month I’m not going to read anything but the Bible (and school books, of coarse. I don’t think there is much danger of school being an idol.)
There are other areas I need help in. I am constantly reminded that I need to love more, give more, submit more, not loose my temper, etc. The list goes on.
Have you ever found the Bible confusing? As I study it sometimes I just want to slam it shut. Sometimes I just don’t get it and then the doubts come. I always have to force myself to turn back to Hebrews 11 and recite, “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. God help me!”
My studies have led me on so many trails. I struggle with God’s will. “What do you want with me?” My father is such a great guide sometimes I’m so thankful God made it so I can just follow him. He is determined to protect me and I’m so glad. He supports me on this next years commitments to which I hope I can fulfill. Sometimes I wonder if I’ll ever make a good wife and mother. All day I babysat my 2 year old brother and 8 year old sister. I feel at my end as I type this yet as I do it is a comfort to just sit with the only sound I hear being my old computer humming and remembering that God is a Powerful God who will never change. Thats how I’ll do it I guess. If it’s His will I know He will give me the strength. Pray for me as I enter this next year. However I might as well ask for prayer for my whole life. Because though in 12 months I’ll turn 18, continue to learn, most likely marry and have plenty of children. My life will be constant change full of periods of waiting. And the Christian walk never stops until that glorious day when one reaches heaven. Do you ever think about heaven? I do and every time I think about kneeling as Jesus’ feet I tingle.
I’ll finish this sporadically written post with something God’s shown me over the last week. My place is under authority and right now that is my father, to serve and help. I’m happy. I teach my brother who is in 6th grade and have so much fun helping him study, grading his work, etc. I love teaching. I have a great relationship with me mom and sister. They are my best friends. It’s so funny because it didn’t used to be like that. It would take me pages and pages to tell how it came about. My sister and I became good friends maybe three years ago but my mom wasn’t until the past year. It’s strange the way I thought it was all her fault the whole time but when I finally gave me heart to her and surrendered my own desires: that’s when it got better. Now I wouldn’t go back for anything.
So one day when I meet my dream guy hopefully I’ll be ready for him. Marriage is a beautiful thing. You know God loves tangible symbols to remind us how much we need Him. Look through the Bible and you’ll see all kinds of things He set up to remind His people of Him. The Passover, stones of remembrance, the ark, the Lord’s Supper, and so many more. Something God has shown me is that’s what marriage is. A picture of God’s sacrifice to His bride, the church. It is a precious picture and our culture as so distorted it with sex before marriage, women becoming the head, men shrinking, families divided. I read a wonderful book this week called “The Scarlet Thread,” that drove this home. This passage is taken from a characters journal who had been married to a lost man that died. She then, left all a lone and desperate, turned to Jesus and became a Christian. After that awhile latter she married a Christian man. Then in the end she writes a letter of thankfulness to God telling Him she’s she grateful to be loved by a Christian man, for even when she was married to her first husband who she loved so much in her earthly love nothing could compare to the love she had now. She writes,
“Is all this but a hint of what it will be like to be in full communion with You, Jesus? Do You show us the part so we yearn for the Whole? I remember Aunt Martha reading to me once that to look upon the face of God brings death. Still, sometimes every bit of me yearns to be in Heaven with You all the while I still want to stay here and live to be an old dotting woman seeing her children and grandchildren around her. I do not understand all that is changing in me.”
That part really blessed me for some reason. I like the end, “I do not understand all that is changing in me.” As it says in the love chapter of the Bible, “Now we see in part but when the perfect comes the partial will be done away.” What we have on earth in romance is only a glimpse of what is to come, in that God will be all we need, all we want, our true love, who died for us and has a place in heaven for us. So that’s what God has shown me and I can’t wait to see more. Right now I just want to learn to love Him more and not defile the single years He has laid out for me.

What does the Bible say?

2008-11-17T06:46:00.001-08:00

I want to thank everyone who voted on my little survey over the past few days.

When you were saved...

1. You chose Christ over your sin.
2. Christ chose you in that He knew how you would respond to the Gospel.
3. Christ chose you before the foundation of the world knowing you could not choose Him over your sin.

I enjoyed seeing the variety of answers though one was dominate. I would like to know who voted what so I would ask if you voted please leave a comment telling what you believe and why. After I get about 10 responses telling me what you said I might just do a post on what I believe about all this. Thank you so much and I look forward to learning...

Girls....

2008-11-04T05:12:00.000-08:00

After my last post and the mixed emotions I was met with I began thinking about how to reply. I am working on a book with my sister Naomi about modesty but one of my chapters which is called, "More than clothing," I feel I expand and explain my views on this whole submission and serving men thing. It's long and since it was for my book it may not come out well on this blog but I'll do my best.

In the New Testament I’ve found only a handful of teachings to women. Jesus never instructed women in his teachings unless it was universal. He did miracles for women and loved them unlike most men of that day who viewed them as property (in exception to true believers who did treat women properly.) He used women in His parables. He blessed them and cared for them but His focus was on men, mainly His disciples.
Later in Paul’s letters and others more specific instruction is given. Women had been serving the Lord, going to prison for it and being beaten. They served the poor and needy and sacrificed themselves in many ways. Then in some of the churches confusion started. This whole New Testament Christianity was new. Then Peter, Paul, and others revealed God’s special will for the women of His church.
Men where given this instruction. They were told you are to love your wives as Christ loved His church. They are asked to be willing to die for us. 1 Peter 3:7, You husbands in the same way, live with your wives in an understanding way, as with someone weaker (admit it we are weaker) since she is a woman; show her honor as a fellow heir of the grace of life, so that your prayers will not be hindered.” Hint... (Don’t marry someone who is not willing to die for you not only physically but to his own desires also.) If I’ve ever seen a living example of this it is my Papa. He works hard for my mother, he tells her in front of us all the time how much he loves her. He does whatever he can around the house even on his day off like, sweeping, washing dishes, ironing his shirts… (now that Naomi are older we can help him out by doing those things) Just little things that make my mommy’s day easier. So don’t marry a jerk. However he treats his family he will treat you, watch him!
(P.S. This does not mean you can boss him around. One the contrary. We have a part in this too. Here it comes….
Titus 2:3, Older women likewise are to be reverent in their behavior, not malicious gossips or enslaved to much wine, teaching what is good, so that they may encourage younger women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, so that the word of God will not be dishonored.
Looks to me like our role in life is pretty clear. We are to love our children, to be sensible, get this – workers at home. Hint, hint, hint. Let’s keep going.

As far as leadership goes. We may think we have so much to say to men. Often times we feel so much smarter, right? Wrong.
1 co. 14:34The women are to keep silent in the churches; for they are not permitted to speak, but are to be subject to themselves, just as the Law says. If they desire to learn anything, let them ask their own husbands at home.
There you have it. God doesn’t like it when women behave like what a pastor once said, “A bull moose.” You can just hear her come into the room, “MOOOOO.”

Your adornment must not merely be external – braiding of the hair, and wearing gold jewelry, or putting on dresses; but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with an imperishable quality of a quiet and gentle spirit, which is precious in the sight of God. 1 Peter 3:3 and 4
It is not wrong to try to look your best, but the real person should not be just your outer garments but the inside. When you have a quiet and gentle spirit, God calls it precious in His sight. He doesn’t call many things precious. (Another word for gentle is meek)
Let’s keep going, its just getting good.

Women must likewise be dignified, not malicious gossips, but temperate, faithful in all things. 1 Tim 3:11
Just another call to not be a bull moose.

Pet. 3:1 in the same way, you wives be submissive to your own husbands so that even if they are disobedient to the Word, they may be won without a word by the behavior of their wives, as they observe your chaste and respectful behavior. Your adornment must not merely be external - braiding the hair, and wearing gold jewelry, or putting on dresses; but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable beauty of a quiet and gentle spirit which is precious in the sight of God. For in the way in former times the holy women also, who hoped in God, used to adorn themselves, being submissive to their own husband; just as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord, and you have become her children if you do what is right without being frightened by any fear.

This broadens the verse I put earlier. But just read it over again. Remember how Sarah obeyed her husband in Genesis? She is commended for that because God has designed it so if we obey our authorities He will bless that.
“Even if they are wrong?”
“For the most part, yes. There have been a few stories in the Bible like when the disciples were brought before the Pharisees and commanded to stop preaching. Jesus had told them to go out and proclaim His Gospel so they rested in that higher authority. When it comes to your parents and eventually your husband I think we are commanded to obey them without a word so that they will be won over by our willing and GENTLE SPIRIRT.
“But what if they ask me to do something terrible liking stealing or murder?”
“How many authorities ask that? Come on.”
“But…”
“Alright, I once heard a sweet women whose unsaved husband did not even allow her to come to church for a time. She was in my Sunday school and when he finally gave her permission to come be with us again she said something like this, “If you are trusting God in your circumstances and leaning on Him in obedience to move this authority’s heart then He will keep you safe from such things. Just like he saved Sarah from being sexually assaulted when she was taken.”
This woman is still living with the same husband and I am glad to tell you God is still working there.

1 Col. 11:9 for indeed man was not created for the women’s sake but women for the man’s sake. Therefore the women ought to have a symbol of authority on her head, because of the angels. However, in the Lord, neither is a women independent from a man or a man independent of a women. For as the woman originates from the man, so also the man has his birth through the woman; and all things originate from God.
I have news for you girls, you were not created equally with boys. I know, in our flesh that makes us so mad. We buck against submission, and authority just like God said we would in the Garden of Eden (Gen. 3:16)
We want to fight against it and be equal. Sorry to say that doesn’t work. Never has, never will. In our culture today you find in marriage often a bull moose of a women and a mouse of a man. And each is trying as hard as they can to fulfill their own desires. You see we are so busy trying to reach the top of the mountain we’re stepping on men’s head as we try to reach it. You may be doing it even without intending it just because our culture is so wacky. God designed men first in His image. Admit it Jesus was a boy because males are suppose to take the lead. Imagine where the church, your school, your youth group could be and do if the men took a mighty lead? The thought excites me. But they really can’t until you step out of the way and do what God intended you to do. You are to serve and lower yourself willingly. I know it’s hard! I know so often I can be that bull moose. But if we embrace this as God’s will and His perfect plan we will find so much joy and fulfillment in doing His bidding. The world says, “Everyone fight for the top!” God says, “Humble yourself and I will bless you.” Can you imagine how many divorces wouldn’t happen if the couple would just die to self? It’s unbelievable. So yes, men should serve you too. Let them figure it out don’t tell them. Hopefully the older men in your church are instructing them in that like the Bible tells them to. Love it when a guy opens the door for you. I sure do. Appreciate them going out of their way to bless you. Now the first time some of them do it you might be tempted to think he’s so mature and nice and then have this big crush on him and you go out of your way to try to be there when he’s at the door. Don’t do that. Let men serve you. Feel free to let them fold the chairs while you direct or watch. Or if you help don’t feel like you have to do three chairs at a time just because they are. I’ve sometimes been teased in a funny way when we were doing chairs in our fellowship hall because my puny self only carries one chair at a time. And I really think that’s okay. When you are in a large group with boys and girls, let the boys lead in prayer. I’m not saying you shouldn’t pray at all but make them lead. Set it up because for many of them it’s a challenge just like it is for us to be quiet. We’ve become bull mousses and they’ve become mice. Change that by forcing them to step up by behaving quietly.

1Tim. 2:9 - 15 Likewise I want the women to adore themselves with proper clothing, modestly and discreetly, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly garments, but rather by the means of good works as is proper for women making claims to godliness. A woman must quietly receive instruction with submissiveness. But I do not allow women to teach or exercise authority over man, but to remain quiet. For it was Adam who was first created then Eve. And it was not Adam who was deceived but woman, being deceived fell into transgression. But women should be preserved through the bearing of children if they continue in the faith and love and sanctify with self – restraint.

Finally to modesty. You may have thought I lost it there for a minuet. Don’t worry, I’m getting there and then I’ll tie a nice big bow on everything. Let’s focus on the verse this book started on. It’s the first few phrases.
Likewise I want the women to adorn themselves in proper clothing, modestly and discreetly, not with braided hair or costly garments, but rather by the means of good works as is proper for women making claims to godliness.
In the New Living Lydia Version
Girls and women, it is God’s desire for you to dress modestly. So by golly do so. Not with flashy and brand name clothing, or so mach make up no one would know you if they saw you when you wake up in the morning. Don’t be caught in the latest trends. But wear something that not only covers you but makes a statement. Modesty is so much more than being covered. It’s making a statement of godliness.
Now for the really fun part. Are you ready because this is where it all ties together? By the way have you been catching on to any themes?

Modestly, Discreetly, Shameless…
When you hear the word modest, what do you think of? Being covered more than most? Holy? Does something similar come to your mind? I always thought something along the line of “covered.” Webster defines it like this,
Modest – adj. having or due measure, modest. Having or showing a moderate opinion of one’s own value, abilities, achievements, etc.; not vain or boastful; unassuming. Not forward, shy or reserved. Behaving dressing, speaking, etc. in a way that is considered proper or decorous; decent. Moderate or reasonable, not extreme. Quiet and humble in appearance, style, etc. Not pretentious.
That’s a pretty good definition but I don’t think it even begins to open the word up like the Greek. Looking these words up in a different language as been really exciting. At points I would just have to set the books aside and think for a moment. Sometimes I said I can’t live up to that, and others I sat in awe in God’s holiness by defining our dress in such a way.
I used two versions, King James and New American Standard Version. Both were very helpful and in many ways similar. Their wording was a little different.
NASB Likewise I want the women to adorn themselves in proper clothing, modestly and discreetly, not with braided hair or costly garments, but rather by the means of good works as is proper for women making claims to godliness.
KJV - In like manor also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with braided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; but with good works.

Now since proper clothing and modest apparel come from the same Greek word, Kosmios, coming from the word World and to set in order. This refers to the order God had when He created the world. The definition…
Kosmios – (from style:italic;">Kosmos (2889) order. To set in order, adorn. That which pertains to space and not time. The sum total of the material universe, the beauty of it; the sum total of persons living the world) Orderly decent. Plato presented Kosmios as the citizen who is quiet in the land, who fulfils the duties which are incumbent on him as such and are not disorderly. He, as well as Paul, associated such persons with sophron (4998 ) sensible, self controlled, one who voluntarily places limits on his freedom. The virtue of the kosmios, however, is not only the propriety of his dress and demeanor, but of his inner life, unerring itself in outward conversation. semnos (4586) one who has a grace and dignity not obtained from earth only. While one who kosmios behaves himself well in his earthly citizenship and is asset, the semnos owns his quality to the higher citizenship which is also his.

Next please; Modesty and Shamefacedness…
127 Shamefacedness, modestly (a sense of shame) from Aidos – modesty, an inner moral repugnance to a dishonorable act. Shame. Grief that a man perceives from his own imperfections considered with relation to the world taking notice of them. Grief upon the sense of disesteem. Aidos finds its motive in itself, implies reverence for the good as good, not merely an act as that to which honor and reputation are attached. Found only in 1Tim. 2:9 , Hew. 12:28

It just keeps getting better…

4997 discreetly - soundness of mind, self controlled.

2689 clothing (only word for clothing in the Bible used) (to keep calm or quiet)

Modest – keeping due measure

Are you thinking hard yet? By these definitions this verse means so much more than to keep covered. It’s calling us so much farther than just not having cleavage show or tight pants. It’s calling us to holiness. Hear it again… “holiness.” To be made in the image of God. Let that sink in.

Now let’s try this verse again with the definition.

NASB Likewise I want the women to adorn themselves in orderly, calm and quiet clothing with grace and dignity. To be one who does not set her citizenship on earth but in a higher place, to have a deep sense of shame to not take this to heart and be remorseful beyond words if she were to cause her brother in Christ to sin. To be sound in mind and to keep due measure. To be orderly and modest in her appearance. Not with flashy and expensive clothes, or gaudy and tacky attire, but with a quiet and submissive spirit.

Where are you?
So after that…where are you? Modesty is more than being covered. It is more than having a desire for modesty. It is more than making sure everything is not too tight. It actually is saying something about style. It’s to be orderly in the same way that God made the world and everything in it orderly. That can be a little scary. I can think of a lot of styles today that are not orderly. I don’t want to be accused of being judgmental, because I’ve worn some of these things too. But could we say, ripped up and faded jeans with holes in them. Even if they cover they aren’t orderly. Spray painted hair gives a tacky and unorderly appearance. Heavy eye makeup. Clothing that shows through to your underclothing or draws attention to it. Tacky items put together to make an outfit that maybe covers you and maybe is so stylish but in no way does it promote a quiet and gentle spirit.
We are to be sensible and self controlled. Our clothing is to be calm and quiet. These shirts that are nothing but sequence…. Lots of makeup that is not natural looking. Writing on your rear… jewelry hanging everywhere.
Do you feel ashamed of your sin? When you think about all the guys around you have you done something or worn something that could have caused them to have lustful thoughts? And when you think about it to you have a repugnance and disgust for it? You should…
“Don’t wear clothing that shows your figure.”
“But that’s everything!”
”I feel like that too sometimes. I feel like I’ll end up looking like an old lady in balloon shirts and pants. I would like to say you can wear clothing that is attractive and modest at the same time but... It all depends how you look at attractive. Attractive I would argue is not always the latest styles. I’m not going to make a list of rules however, that would be so easy. What you should be doing is seeking God and reading these definitions over and over again. There is no way getting around it. Believe me I would have found it. If you ever find anything tell me and I’ll write a sequel, “I was wrong.” But the Bible says over and over again how you are to behave and how your dress should be affected by that.
It’s a lot to think about. Some of you may have heard much of this your whole life while others of you… this is all new stuff. I know for you this is very difficult to grasp and I wish I could be there to talk it through with you and pray for you as you wrestle with putting away those bull moose tendencies. I’m still working on it.
This doesn’t mean you have to be quiet all the time and never share how you feel. I am not telling you that. If anyone where to tell you that it’s not me because I am a strong believer in talking everything out. No problem can be solved without it. But can we all admit we’ve taken it too far be conforming to our culture?
My call is to commit (me totally included) to let the men step up and become leaders and we can become followers. If we use God’s methods so many problems will be resolved.
One more thing. You can be more talkative around your girl friends than when boys are around or adults. When with your family you can act more playful and fun than when at a gathering. That’s not being hypercritical but giving a public witness.

You are God’s Princess.

Let’s go back to this verse one more time.
1 Col. 11:9 for indeed man was not created for the women’s sake but women for the man’s sake. Therefore the women ought to have a symbol of authority on her head, because of the angels. However, in the Lord, neither is a women independent from a man or a man independent of a women. For as the women originates from the man, so also the man has his birth through the women; and all things originate from God.
This shows God’s plan so well. All things, all things originate from Him. Just because He had given you a role of submission doesn’t mean you are any less important in His eyes. I strongly believe He loves both man and women equally and we will all get a reward in Heaven because of what we’ve done, not because of who we are.

Commit

Check what you commit to pray about and take action. Make a difference…

___ I will not be a bull moose at any time
___ I will treat guys like guys and not my best buddy, realizing there is a difference and a distance to keep.
___ I will allow guys to serve me
___ I will accept what God’s word says about modesty and submission, applying it to my life. This means to your parents and one day your spouse. (you don’t have to submit to the boys in your youth group. Just let them lead)
___ I will have a mindset that in light of all eternity whether I’m wearing something stylish or not doesn’t matter that much.
___ I will seek to encourage others in this new teaching
___ I will try hard not to cause my brother’s in Christ to sin in my actions, clothing, or speech
___ I will seek godly advice on applying this to my life

A Good Wife

2008-10-26T19:44:00.000-07:00

I thought this was so neat. Taken from a news article from the 1950's this tells about what they thought being a good wife was. I retyped it so it was readable. I really enjoyed it and though I don't think everyone needs to do all the recommended I think it is worth looking at to prepare for our husbands even in 2008 where women give little thought to how the please their husband. I mean can you imagine this being in a newspaper today? It's so sad how far America had come in only 50 years. Hope you enjoy.

1. Have dinner ready. Plan ahead, even the night before, to have a delicious meal ready, on time for his return. This is a way of letting him know that you have been thinking about him and are concerned about his needs. Most men are hungry when they come home and the prospect of a good meal (especially his favorite dish) is part of the warm welcome needed.

2. Prepare yourself. Take 15 minuets to rest so you’ll be refreshed when he arrives. Touch up your make-up, put a ribbon in your hair and be fresh-looking. He had just been with a lot of work-weary people.

3. Be gay and a little more interesting for him. His boring day may need a lift and one of your duties is to provide it.

4. Clear away the clutter. Make one last trip through the main part of the house just before your husband arrives.

5. Gather up schoolbooks, toys, paper, etc and then run a dust cloth over the tables.

6. Over the cooler months of the year you should prepare and light a fire for him to unwind by. Your husband will feel he had reached a haven of rest and order, and it will give you a lift too. After all, catering for his comfort will provide you with immense personal satisfaction.

7. Prepare the children. Take a few minuets to wash the children’s hands and faces (if they are small), comb their hair and, if necessary, change their clothes. They are treasures and he would like to see them playing the part. Minimize all noise. At the time of his arrival, eliminate all noise of the washer, dryer, or vacuum. Try to encourage the children to be quiet.

8. Be happy to see him.

9. Greet him with a warm smile and show sincerity in your desire to please him.

10. Listen to him. You may have a dozen important things to tell him, but the moment of his arrival is not the time. Let him talk first – remember, his topics of conversation are more important than yours.

11. Make the evening his. Never complain if he comes home late or goes out to dinner, or other places of entertainment without you. Instead, try to understand his world of strain and pressure and his very real need to be at home and relax.

12. Your goal: Try to make sure your home is a place of peace, order and tranquility where your husband can renew himself in body and spirit.

13. Don’t greet him with complaints and problems.

14. Don’t complain if he’s late home for dinner or even if he stays out all night. Count this as a minor compared to what he might have gone through that day.

15. Make him comfortable. Have him lean back in a comfortable chair or have him lie down in the bedroom. Have a cool or warm drink ready fro him.

16. Arrange his pillows and offer to take off his shoes. Speak in low, soothing and pleasant voice.

17. Don’t ask him questions about his actions or question his judgment or integrity. Remember, he is master of the house and as such will always exercise his will with truthfulness. You have no right to question him.

18. A good wife always knows her place.

D- Now

2008-10-20T07:18:00.000-07:00

This weekend we had a youth event called D-Now or (disciple now) We got to go to host homes, our house was one for girls. We had teaching, games, and went to a couple's house in our church and cleaned their yard. The teaching was about sharing your faith and was really good. The college group is the one who set everything up for us and I want to say a big thank you.

one of my best friends Hannah and my sister Naomi at the work sight. I love the gloves in their back pockets.

all three of us

this is a shot of our group. It might be hard to tell but my sister and I are in the back. She had sunglasses and my head is turned sideways.

this was our band. They led us in some cools songs. Thank you.

His Number by Janet Carlton

2008-10-16T06:31:00.000-07:00

I can't remember where but my sister and I found this poem on another blog and loved it so much I wanted to share it. It's words are so sweet and such a dear promise to girls who commit their future to God's hands.

While waiting
As a bride-to-be
I heard God firmly speak to me
To cast aside the world’s device
And become a living sacrifice
Namely, that my womb should bear
The ones He planned to cradle there
And that no humanistic creed
Should limit my fertility.
Oh, how I wrestled with that word-
So unusual,
So absurd!
Could God?
Would God take control?
And what would His requirements hold?
After much debate and doubt
I threw my own decisions out;
If God can measure earth and sea,
Can He not chart a family?
And if He names and numbers stars
Then in His book is each of ours.
We therefore gave to Him the right
To build the house and take the charge.
A mother now
With nine on hand
By faith and grace I have no plan
But cast aside the things that kill
To let His number be fulfilled.

My Papa

2008-10-06T18:03:00.000-07:00

Check out my dad's blog. His newest post is about casting a vision for the next ten years of your life. It's for youth and teens. Tell him what you think! I promised him readers.

http://pastorjimlaw.blogspot.com/

Lydia

2008-10-06T17:07:00.000-07:00

First time TAGGED!
I got tagged for the very first time by Maiden of Purity.

1. Link to the person(s) who tagged you.
2. Post the rules on your blog.
3. Write six random things about yourself.
4. Tag sixish people at the end of your post.
5. Let each person know he or she has been tagged.
6. Let the tagger know when your entry is up

Ok...I know I have six random things about myself!

1. i am terrified of heights
2. i only like ice cream with stuff like nuts, cookie dough, chocolate chips, etc...in it.
3. as a child i ran after any creature that moved from dogs to frogs(that is no longer true.)
4. my favorite tv show is 'i love lucy.'
5. i hate playing the piano but love the flute
6. i get very bad grades in algebra

now here is who i tagged...

Hannah http://livingforhim-hannah.blogspot.com/
Naomi http://abundantgrace-naomi.blogspot.com/
Jarrod http://ymcorner.blogspot.com/ (not that he will answer. he is my youth pastor)

i don't really have anyone else but here it goes.

New Book "Does Modesty Exist Today?"

2008-09-29T05:46:00.000-07:00

Chapter One

Why is
Modesty a
Struggle?

“But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desires of your flesh. For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for theses are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things you please. But if you are led by the spirit you are not under the law.”
Galatians 5: 16
- Hey, to begin with, writing a book on modesty was the last thing on my mind. This whole book was totally Naomi’s idea and I simply agreed to go along with it because she wanted my help I’m kind of like the writer of the family. As I began, I really wondered if this was such a good project for me to do. After all, who am I to write about modesty? I struggle with it, I want to be in fashion, I want the attention when I wear an awesome outfit and, like many Christian girls I know, the problem isn’t I want to attract a boy; I just want to be ‘in’.
So how could I dare to teach others on such a thing, something on which I still have so much to learn?
I was amazed after I started on the first chapter how much I really did know from my own personal experiences and on what my parents and others have taught me. I continued to search and dig I became so overwhelmed by the definitions and verses and how in the end so much ties together. So even if I’m not completely there yet, God is at work and I hope this book will be not a lot of do’s and don’ts, but what we and others have learned.

- Hello, dear sisters, I am Naomi. I am just like you, nothing special about me except for Jesus Christ my Lord and Savior. I indeed am nothing but Christ is my everything. In myself I am weak, but in Christ, and Christ alone, I become strong. I struggle with the same battles that you do. In my flesh, I buck at the very idea of modesty. I can come up with excuse after excuse after excuse to not dress modestly, but the Holy Spirit silences me every time.
As my sister said earlier that this book was my idea, and true I did say to her, hey Lydia, I have this idea to write a book on modesty, but quite truthfully, it is not my idea. The whole idea of modesty did not come from me, but rather, it came from the clear commands in the Bible. This book is not something that I decided to write for popularity, in fact I expect the opposite, but rather this book is inspired by the Holy Spirit, and everything that we write is based on what Jesus Christ has said to us in the Scriptures.
There may be things in this book that make you angry or upset, there may be things in this book that make you defensive and proud. I am not apologizing for these things, on the contrary, I am pleading with my precious sisters in Christ, that you read this book with a heart open to the Holy Spirit working in your life. Lay your flesh and any pre-suppositions and biased attitudes on the teaching of modesty and let your mind be opened to what God would have you learn.
As Paul prayed for the Ephesians in Ephesians 1:18, I pray for you:
…that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints,
May the Lord open the eyes of you heart so that you might see and know the riches of His glory.

Tell us what you think of our idea to write a book on modesty.
Lydia and Naomi

Sorrow and Joy

2008-09-23T15:09:00.000-07:00

We are a homeschool family, our dad is a preacher, our mom is a stay at home mom, and for the most part we fit in the homeschool mold. One thing we don’t have is a lot of children. We have five and sure that’s more than most people but not for homeschoolers. We have been asked before why. Some homeschool mom even dared to ask if we were against lots of children. The answer is no. In fact, every time I think about it, pain comes.
My parents felt led by God to release their family planning after my brother (our third.) (I do not want to judge and so don’t think I’m saying this is for everyone. Only if God’s called you to it) so there was me, my sister and brother along with one miscarriage. My mom had no idea what would come or what God would ask of us. She lost another baby after my brother. Then my sister was born and she felt God told her she would have another son, but it would be awhile before she knew it.
Every year after that she was pregnant, and every year we lost a baby. We don’t know why but it happened. The hurt, even though it wasn’t my children, was so painful. I didn’t know why this was happening or why God would allow us to loose all these little ones. We wanted them in our family. We desired those children and they were being taken away from us. Most the time I could bear to forget but then it would happen again. I have 7 unborn brothers and sisters in heaven now. After the seventh I begged my mom please don’t let it happen again. Though she too was struggling she told me she couldn’t because God had asked her to trust Him. Then she got pregnant again. It was hard to even get excited about it. But we counted to weeks as a family, no one else knowing about it and her belly got bigger and bigger. She had a son and we named him Nathan which means, “Gift from God.”
We gave him to God while he was still in my mom's womb because we knew he was safer in His hands then ours.
So now that my keyboard is wet I’d like to tell you why I’m sharing this. It is because I have learned something in it all and even though I would have loved to have had so many more siblings and even though I sometimes wish my mom was still having children I find comfort in remembering that God knows what He’s doing even when we don’t. Nathan means so much more to us than he would have if it had just been another child and I’ll be able to carry that into my future home, a love for every child and knowing they truly are a blessing. When other girls in our church have a moms who goes through the same thing we can tell them we understand because we not only went through it once but seven times.
This applies to all of life and so many things could be used to illustrate this but I like our story because you can see a beginning and an end. In my heart I still see seven tiny graves in our families past but I see hope in the future and every time I sit and hold my now two year old brother I give thanks.

“Sorrow may endure for the night, but joy comes in the morning.”
Psalm 30:5

Who my Dad is makes me who I am

2008-09-21T20:09:00.000-07:00

What’s it like being a PK (preacher’s kid)? This is to answer the question is my dad still a pastor. Yes he is. We will be celebrating our 15 years at our church within the month. We do belong to a denomination but that’s not what rules us. We base all our convictions on God’s word and I like to refer to us as Reformed Christian.
Often I like being a PK and sometimes I don’t. I’ll start with what I like.
1. Our standards are generally higher than others and it keeps me accountable. I get to meet some really neat people because it feels like my dad knows everyone. My sister and I work at our church so we get to talk with the staff and do jobs. We know where all the candy is and enjoy talking to everyone. I like seeing my dad preach every Sunday. He gets to choose his day off. He knows so much about the Bible we can give him a key phrase to a verse and he gives you a reference. He has an awesome memory. (Too bad I didn’t get some of it. Sadly I have about the same memory skills as a 40 year old. My sister often teases me that I’ll be senile by the time I’m 30)
2. I sometimes don’t like being a pk because our friends sometimes act weird around us. We go to someone’s house to watch a movie and their parents freak out over every part and start fast fording things you know they don’t usually do. Lots of people expect us to be the “good kids” which can be a good thing and challenge you if you take it right. My dad had to carry so many others problems and this sometimes affects the way he acts when he comes home in the evenings.
There are good and bad just like every other job. I guess I’m thankful for it. What better thing for my dad to do than serve God in his work? Because of who he is and how he affects my life I am who I am.

To Date or not to Date...

2008-09-20T11:37:00.000-07:00

It wasn’t until recently (over this past year) that I became aware of the fact that many Christians still date. I don’t date because I feel God’s will in my life is to save myself emotionally and physically for my future mate and I don’t want to compromise this in any way. But others see nothing wrong with this system of finding one guy, date around, break up, and finding another, maybe being a little more physical with this one. But when it hurts you may put your guard up for the next one only to break up again at one time or another.
I was challenged by a new friend I met online saying, “How can you just give up? Then life would be pointless.”
I totally agree with this statement. But it can be misapplied. She used the examples… “If a relative dies and you realize you are not going to live forever do you just give up?”
No, because the Bible tells us to live life to the fullest in Christ. (By the way I base all my life on the Bible so if you disagree take it up with God.) This is not something we are called to give up on.
Another thing… “What about a friend who is not a Christian. What do you do when they spit in you face and reject the Gospel. Do you give up?”
Never, the Bible says, “Go into all the earth making disciples of all nations…” Is that not obvious enough?
Does the Bible say, “GO and Date.”
I think not. In fact, it says and hints the opposite.
It tells you how you are to spend your single years.

“I want you to be free from anxieties. The unmarried man is anxious about the things of the Lord, how to please the Lord. But the married man is anxious about worldly things, (or his house and family) and his interests are divided. And the unmarried is anxious about the things of the Lord, how to be holy in body and spirit. But the married woman is worried about worldly things and how to please her husband.” 1 Cor. 7:32- 34

My thought on this verse is…

“Be free from the worry of a relationship and devote yourself to God. The unmarried man can devote himself to God and work in the Church. But the married man is committed to caring for his family. For the unmarried are to be worried about the things of God and His ways. But married women are to be focused on her home and how to please her family.”

This verse shows how we are to spend our single years. Not going from one relationship to the other but devoted to God and ministry.
Another verse that I believe confirms this is found in Song of Solomon. No one says it better than Nancy Leigh DeMoss and Dannah Gresh.

- “The Song of Solomon is the most romantic book in the Bible. It describes a love relationship between Song of Solomon and his bride. Three times in this powerful love story the young women is charged not to stir up or awaken love before it is time.”

God wishes for us to have a pure and devoted heart to Him and not to every man that makes us laugh.
Another thing...If we look or are checking men out now it’s not going to stop after we are married. We know that’s wrong. Should our behavior towards the opposite sex be any different now than when we are married? I don’t think it should. Remember you can’t marry them all. You get one. If you flirt, hug, go out with, hold hands with, kiss, or even go as far as to have sex, you are doing all that with someone else’s husband or wife. When I am deciding how to treat a boy I treat him as if he already belonged to another. I wonder if a girl somewhere far away or near who knows my future mate and treated him as I am treating this guy would I be jealous? Would it hurt? If you date and date then enter marriage you never know, “What did he do on his dates?” “Did he treat her like he treats me?” “Am I as fun to be around as she was?”
God’s desire for you is to be whole, not broken into several pieces all along the way. It’s not just a, “Well, that didn’t work out so I will press on in another relationship.”
That is the way of the world and we should not follow it. Anyone may dare to disagree with me and I will listen to you or read about your view but I am firm in mine and feel I have a solid foundation for it.
One more story…
I went to a class on dating and this is how the man teaching started things.
“May I borrow a piece of gum?”
A guy brought one up and the speaker took it and chewed saying, “The first bite is always the best.”
Then wrapping it back up, all wet and gooey gave it back and said, “Maybe he won’t notice…”
We all got the picture. Each date there is one more chew out of us. And one day when you marry, if that is God’s will as it is for 99% of Christians, you can hand you mate a chewed piece of gum or say…
“All I am, all I was, and all I will ever be is yours. I have never given my heart to another and all of it is wholly and completely yours.”
Lord willing I will be able to say this but there are many who can’t. Some have even lost their purity entirely. God can heal and mend; I know He can because of other area in my life in which I have failed terribly then found forgiveness. All you have to do is ask…
For more info on giving dating up there are some awesome books. I kissed Dating Goodbye, by Joshua Harris is the best in my opinion. Also by the same guy, Not even a Hint. (I heard he changed the title recently so watch out) Before you meet Prince Charming is good for younger girls. And Lies young women believe and the Truth that sets them free. There is a lot of great info in this book but two chapters talk about dating. It’s by Nancy Leigh DeMoss and Dannah Gresh.

Now I don't do this because it's fun. There are many times I wish I could have a guys attention or want him to put his arm around me, etc. These desires are normal and one day will be satisfied in the greatest way. If I had nothing to look forward to waiting would be a waste. Sometimes it can be hard but I am trusting God to work in me in such a way that when I stand before the man He has for me I can look back and have no regrets.

God Bless...

The Desire of my Heart

2008-09-16T09:44:00.000-07:00

I have many desires and dreams. I want to write and publish Christian books, get married to an awesome Christian guy (have no clue who he is yet), have children to love and teach, and so many more little thing that I hope may one day be apart of my future. But right now as an American teen I have a desire that is so very close to my heart and wishes and I want it to be happening right now. Passion…
Now there are many kinds of passion. We live in a passionate age and see it everywhere. People have passion for their love life, for a football team, food, cars, sports, TV, video games, music, money, etc… but that is not the kind of passion I want to see.

Revive Us Again

LORD, you were favorable to your land; you restored the fortunes of Jacob. You forgave the iniquity of your people; you covered their sin.
You withdrew your wrath; you turned from your hot anger.
Restore us again, O God of our salvation, and put away your indignation towards us! Will you be angry with us forever? Will you prolong your anger to all generations? Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you? Show us your steadfast love, O Lord, and grant us your salvation.
Let me hear what God the LORD will speak, for he will speak peace to His people, to his saints; but let them not turn back to folly. Surely his salvation is near to those who fear him that glory may dwell in the land.

I found this Psalm (Psalm 85) a few years ago and fell in love with it. I have prayed over it with tears as I think about America and more importantly, the American Church.
This is my version for my country with this Psalm…

“Lord, you were favorable to you land. You were kind to our founding fathers. You restored America to George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and so many others from the hands of the British. You forgave our iniquities and sins. You withdrew your wrath from those who disobeyed you and were gracious.
Yet what has happened? We have turned aside.
Restore us again, O God of our salvation, and put away your indignation towards us. Will you be angry with us forever? Will you prolong your anger to all generations? Will you not revive us again, that your people will rejoice in you? Show us your steadfast love, O Lord, and grant us salvation.
Speak to your people and turn away our love from this world. Speak Lord, for he will speak peace to his people, to his chosen ones. But let them not turn to the world. His salvation is near those who fear him and his glory will dwell upon them.

This is the desire of my heart. I see so MANY that claim to be Christians and many may be but they are so consumed with the pop culture to even stand out. You wouldn’t know one from the other because there is no joy. Sometimes I can hardly believe Christians are watching some of the movies I see advertised. I wonder how? And then come to church on Sunday and have a pure heart towards God? Do they just throw Philippians out the window when it comes to entertainment?
My heart is burdened for America’s church. Where are we going? Why don’t I see people seeking hard after God? We go to youth group and all these godly things are said and done, then we go in the hall and talk about trashy movies and do not speak as I believe we would if Jesus were there. I feel I am often included in that. Why do we go on mission trips and the only time we smile is with our friends? Why is there so much complaining about the heat or bugs? I went to China last spring and I felt like all our team did was complain about the food. (It was strange food at timesI must admit) but I found myself complaining because of this attitude. Do you realize how your attitude affects others?
At a camp I went to this summer I found myself complaining over a very annoying situation I found myself in and it defiantly affected others.
We are called to be joyful and show the world we are followers of Christ by our behavior. It’s not happening. The Church is like the world and we seem stuck in this rut of having to be hip to reach the world. Don’t you think God can save people without us compromising his holy standards? This is the desire of my heart and I ask that anyone… anyone who may read this would work with me to change the world by changing ourselves. Pray though Psalm 85 with me and let the Lord restore us…

Not everyone got out with simply no power for a few days...

2008-09-09T13:08:00.001-07:00

http://www.2theadvocate.com/news/ascension/28040704.html

Hurricane Gustav 4

2008-09-05T06:36:00.000-07:00

Day Four...

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making breakfast

We spent the day like all the other days. Hot,playing games, cleaning what we could... in the afternoon one of our good friends invited us and my friend Hannah and her sisters to come swim in their pool. There I found out she didn't even get water. I can't imagine. But while we were there her mom called and we found out their electricity had come on. That evening ours did too.
God's mercy was so great. But pray for the people in Louisiana. Many still don't have power and others have a lot of clean up.

We got lights!

Night time

2008-09-05T06:33:00.000-07:00

y favorite time was in the evening. It was so dark we didn't go off by ourselves but all hung out in the living room reading aloud and talking. It was so hot we all bunked up in the kitchen.

playing with the flashlight...

Hurricane Gustav 3

2008-09-05T05:40:00.000-07:00

Day three

we were able to hook the generator up to our washer for a few hours which was great. We could wash clothes! Then we hung them out to dry...

hanging clothes ( you know things that came off the line were a lot stiffer than dryer dried clothing.)

Around Us

2008-09-04T21:04:00.000-07:00

We thought things were going pretty well until we took a drive around. Everything was out of power. Imagine driving through your city and no stores being open, every window is dark, gas lines forever, no traffic lights and just as many cars as normal.
Trees were everywhere, lines were long. We saw a trailer slit in half by a tree and more...

Here is some what we saw...

a billboard torn up

>
the garden section at home depot. you can see some letters missing and the torn look

the gas station across from our church lost their sign

we found it

.

Hurricane Gustav 2

2008-09-04T20:45:00.000-07:00

Day Two

Ever wished you could travel in time? We got a taste of that. Dark house, bugs, doing everything by hand... it was hot, it was awesome and I gave God thanks for it...
"Praise Him in the storm..."

this is how we tried to kept cool. It gave us light too... yes we kept our doors open all day except at night.

making lunch...yum looks good doesn't it?

guess who became nature boy in all this? Off hunting for food this little guy was outside all the time.

doing dishes by hand was something new. The worst part was it was hot and the water was hot so you soon became...very...hot...

Hurricane Gustav

2008-09-04T20:09:00.000-07:00

I live in Louisiana and recently a hurricane known as Gustav hit near our home. We were without power for four days and tonight is my first night to be on my computer in it feels like forever. No internet, no air conditioning, nothing…
So how was the past four days? Some moments were better than others. We have running water and our neighbor got a generator which they kindly shared with us. God was good and I want everyone to know about it.

Day One….

Originally it was supposed to hit us at a category four. If you look at the picture of the computer screen below you’ll see what I’m talking about. We were so blessed when it unexpectedly went down to a category one.

It hit Monday… the winds were incredible. I tried to get some good videos out the window but nothing I could get could do it justice. We couldn’t believe we were only experiencing a small hurricane. My sister and I had cleared everything out of our room in case a window broke and we sat and waited. The electricity went out at about eleven – thirty a.m. but the temperature outside was windy and after the storm we went and played in the water.

notice the gray sky in the back

mimi holding up a piece of our roof.

the wind was crazy

playing in the mud

racing (i always win)

We were so blessed in the way God took care of us again and again. The first night we sat down in our dark house and my Papa asked what we were thankful for. I had to say, "I'm thankful that our God is a big God." This storm could have been so bad and as we had watched it come I must admit I got a little scared but this storm that could have been so devastating wasn't some big glob out of control in the gulf of Mexico. God holds the oceans in the palm of His hand and He was holding Gustav and guiding it's every move. This was a great adventure but we survived with nothing more than a few shingles missing. Isn't God great! Though then we didn't know what was coming next.

How Christ Saved Me...

2008-09-04T18:53:00.000-07:00

I was asked by a sister in Him how I became a follower of Jesus. Here is my answer. I am so excited about sharing this.

When I was three my younger sister was born and I was no longer the only child of my family. My Papa was a pastor and my mom a stay at home mom but I was as rebellious as a three year old girl could be. As a year went by I became as jealous, angry, and full of pride as ever before. One evening I did what my mother directly told me not to do. (Not like I didn’t do that often enough) but this defiant act caused her, my Papa, and I to all become very upset and our little home was full of tension. That night as we were trying to have our family prayer time my Mommy asked me, “If your Papa had had taken you to the bedroom and spanked you as you deserved…then Jesus walked in and said, ‘Don’t spank Lydia, spank me instead.’ What would you do?
A simple example but that night Christ turned the light on in my little heart and I began to understand. That night I asked Jesus to come into my heart and I was never the same. Still I was only four and knew little about living the Christian walk. I went through phases of being excited about the Bible to almost dormant. I was around it all the time, in every ministry available at our church and somehow it became all very ordinary to me. But God was still working. As I entered my teens I was confused and wanted to be apart of our youth group, and I wanted so much to be ‘in’ but with my parents putting so many ‘hindrances’ (so I thought) I couldn’t be all I wanted to be. Then my eyes were opened just a little more and I began to see where I needed to be. I knew I needed to dig more into God’s word and work on having a quiet and gentle spirit to; focus more on the inside than I was on the outside. I knew I struggled in many areas but I wasn’t taking action to fix them. Then in only the past six months my life continued to turn from my own desires to that of God’s and my parents. I didn’t view submission as a burden so much anymore and I began to find God’s word to be more than the book I based my life around because that was the right thing to do. I started waking up early and seeking for myself what the Bible say and started really seeking His will. So I am this sweet, Godly, humble, submissive, quiet teen. Absolutely not! I still have years to go before I come near that. But like God has worked in the past twelve years since the night I knelt on my parent’s bedroom floor till now I am sure He will continue do great things because He is great.
I sometimes feel like I’ve wasted those twelve years and I am determined not to continue in that pattern.
Life goes on… and so does my awe in God’s hand over me. This morning I sat and wept asking, “God why on earth did you choose me? I don’t understand.” I can only say thank you and hope that I will become so surrendered to His will that He can us me, even little 5’ 2’, unpopular, silly, me for His BIG plan.
So that’s my testimony and how God reached from heaven to save….me.

Family (siblings) Good Times

2008-08-29T11:34:00.000-07:00

Ok, I must admit as I started my list of things I am thankful for about my siblings at first all I did was stare at a blank screen as a line blinked at me. But it still works. Over the past few days I have felt much better attitudes in our home. NO, it is not even near perfect and we (I) have a long way to go. But remember your siblings will be with you the rest of your life. Maybe you won’t live near each other and maybe your contact will be much less than it is now. However they will always be related to you. Out of all the people in the world they are the closest to you. They know what makes you happy or sad or what ticks you off. They know your habits and who you really are. That can be scary.
And admit it if you try you can have a lot of fun together. Try to have fun with them when you can. Play Apples to Apples or hide and seek. If they are younger than you like mine are than it’s a great time to drop the way you act to impress your friends and just be a like a (mature) kid again. Have some fun with them. Look for opportunities to go places together. I understand sometimes that can be embarrassing. Sometimes my whole family goes to the mall together and my sister and I just want to put a sheet over our head and drag our feet so we are far away from them. Don’t do that. Make people believe that you are so glad they are right beside you.
And let me tell you, little siblings are so easy to impress. Try saying some really silly and corny joke and watch them laugh. It can really be fun. You just have to try.

having fun

2008-08-29T11:25:00.000-07:00

this is the four oldest kids in our family in a pool on our vacation to Florida.
To the far left is my sister Naomi. Then my 8 year old sister, (we call her Mi Mi)
Then my brother DJ. Then me.

We also went to the beach together

this is my sisters and I at Bible Drills.

this is my sister and I having our devotions at a camp we went to this summer.

Family (siblings) beyond hard

2008-08-27T05:50:00.000-07:00

Recently my sister and I had to take over the house because my mom got very sick. We had never done anything like this before and we went from doing simple chores to taking over the whole house. We cleaned and cooked and did pretty well. (If you don’t believe me you could ask my parents.) They praised us and thanked us. All the first morning my sister and I couldn’t stop staying how much we loved taking care of our own home and how we couldn’t wait to be married. We spoke too soon. Before we knew it we were angry, very angry. My 2 year old brother was in to everything and wouldn’t stop fussing or crying. Then when you thought he had found something to keep him happy you turn around and find him (real to life example) dumping cans of live worms all over the garage floor. Pouring a brand new bottle of body gel on our bedroom carpet. Throwing food off his tray…. Again. And again we would have to spank his little bottom and he would say sorry then go do it again. My other sister who is 8 was always fighting with someone. She was complaining that she was sick too but then you’d see her hoping around and playing until you asked her to do something. But my 12 year old brother was the worst. Nothing we did was good enough and no matter what we asked him to do he’d say no or he made the other little ones mad.
You can imagine our defeat and anger. We were so upset we couldn’t even speak a kind word to them. It carried over into the next days and last night our mom came in our room and shared a story about her something from her early married life. She said that our Papa really irritated her shortly after they were first married by leaving his stuff all over the house and not keeping things neat. So after a while she felt led by God to pray and make a list of everything she was thankful for about him. Slowly the list grew and one day she wasn’t so irritated anymore and he was even picking up after himself. (ps. they have a great marriage now)
She told us to do the same thing for our siblings. Last night we were both too mad to even think about it. This morning, after a lot of battle with my flesh, I am preparing to make a list and trusting God to work in my heart. I can’t go on in my Christian walk with such anger towards others in my house so I am going to work hard. I don’t want to forgive many of them but the last few days have been miserable so…. I need God to help me change things and I’m starting today.
GIVE THANKS…
“And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful." Colossians 3:15

Family (Siblings) when it's hard...

2008-08-20T05:32:00.000-07:00

Okay, I tried to play with them; I’ve tried to be nice. But they are too terrible. I understand, honestly I do. I am the oldest then I have a 14 year old sister who I for the most part get along with. Then I have a brother who is 12 (bad age) A very loud 8 year old sister and my 2 year brother. They are all spread out so they really don’t play together, only fight and all of them want my sister and I to give them attention. I know obnoxious.
Yesterday I did some babysitting for a lady in our church who has three children under the age of four. They were so sweet and I loved being with them, though I came home tired and wanting some time to myself. My siblings did not agree with this idea to say the least. All I heard…
“Lydia, will you read me a book…”
“I wanted to tell you about…”
“Will you play a game with me…”
Then when the older ones finally went to their piano lessons I hoped I would have it quiet while my 2 year brother took his nap. He decided he didn’t want a nap. So there went my quiet afternoon. The family arrived home far too soon and again.
“He’s knocking over my tower…”
SCREAM!
“He won’t get out of my stuff….”
“I don’t want to help clean up…”
Relate?
So what do you do when your siblings annoy the snot out of you? What do you say when all you want is for them to stop fighting and leave you alone?
“You have been selfish.”
“Mom, I’m tired. I got up at five – thirty and I’ve been working all morning.”
“You should die to your own will and spend some time with them and bring order.”
“I read him his book.”
“OH, that was five minutes.”
Then you get the pep talk. So how do you deal with all this? I’ll tell you what I did and even though the rest of my day wasn’t perfect I managed to make it 80% better.
1. Pray for help
2. Find someone to laugh with. I found my sister and my mom very helpful in this. I just sat down and started talking about the best parts of my day and soon we were enjoying each other again.
3. Strive to not yell. I know it’s hard, I really do. But Proverbs 15:1 says, “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” So they won’t respond with goodness if you yell or are harsh. Sometimes I’ve felt like that was the only way to get their attention but obviously it’s not the right way.

Family (siblings)

2008-08-16T11:14:00.000-07:00

Every month I would like to have a theme for my blog to write about. This month I would like to do family. I hear the average teen spends very little time at home and very little time with their family.
I’m not average in that I’m homeschool and spend everyday at home with my family. But just because I or you other homeschoolers spend time with them doesn’t mean it’s good time. I know a lot I’d like to just get out of the house and away from my two younger brothers and sister. But I have come to really see they want more than anything to spend time with me. I’m their big sister and they just want a little of my attention. I’m sure your younger siblings do too.
So what do most teens do on their Saturday? Sleep till noon, then watch tv. Let’s break that habit, for our own good. If you want to be a responsible adult one day you can’t act like all the other teens. This morning I started my own suggestion. I woke at seven and had my devotions and worked on the computer. Later I went outside to find my two year old brother crying because he had slipped into a mud puddle and didn’t like it. I started playing with him and soon he was laughing at the mud. We covered ourselves with it and he had so much fun. He smiled really big at me and said, “Le Le, we’re playing games!”
I spent about an hour playing with him and it was worth it. Try sacrificing some of your Saturday and spend time with someone in your family.

Normal?

2008-08-15T13:01:00.000-07:00

Most would say (and for the most part I agree) I'm just a normal homeschool teen. I am the first born of five, my dad's a pastor, my mom is a stay at home mom. I hate hard things and would rather spend all day surfing the web. I enjoy socializing and shopping and love all kinds of foods. I really wasn't committed to godly things. But that was several weeks ago...
Recently I've read some books, gone to a camp, and went to a weekend conference. In the time since then I've quit playing video games, started waking up at 5:30 in the morning for quiet time (and love every second of it) and evaluating my heart in ways I never have before. Not so normal anymore...
My life is just another life to many, just like yours - right? Wrong, I believe everyone was put on earth for a purpose because God, the maker of the world made even you and that is no small thing. How should we take this? As Christians we should jump on it. We should have a burning desire that not a single day, a single hour, a single minute, or even that a second should be wasted. Just like every one of you, I am not here on this planet at this time for no reason. That's why I am starting this blog. Day by Day, how will you spend it?

Day By Day

2008-08-15T12:54:00.000-07:00

The Christian life is not a call to Spiritual activities;
A Bible study here, a mission trip there.
It is a call to die to self and be bound with Christ,
Day by Day, Hour by hour, Minute by minute,
Second by second...