Fellowship with the Lord

In the last little while, the Lord seems to keep drawing my heart and mind back to a particular area in my walk with Him. Whether it is through songs sung, verses read, or things that others share, this thought, this area, keeps coming to the forefront. 

This area is directly linked with the earlier post on complacency, and it has to do with one’s relationship with the Lord.

As I was reading in 1 John awhile back, a verse that was read caused me to pause and examine it more closely:

“Indeed our fellowship is with the Father, and with His Son, Jesus Christ” (1 John 1:3b).

When looking up the word ‘fellowship’ in our concordance, it was found that it is translated from the Greek word ‘koinonia.’ Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary defines ‘koinonia’ as “communion, fellowship, sharing in common.” 

Noah Webster’s 1828 American Dictionary of the English Language defines the word ‘fellowship’ as “communion, intimate familiarity.” 

Both definitions use the word ‘communion’ in them . . . this word is better understood by looking at some of its synonyms which include unity and spiritual union. The defining words of “intimate familiarity,” as used by Noah Webster’s dictionary, indicate a very close and deep relationship from the inmost part of ones’ being.

With these definitions, we see that the very word ‘fellowship’ bespeaks relationship; but not just any kind of relationship. Fellowship is deeper than knowledge and richer than acquaintance. It is the very heart (or spirit) of the person in communion with another . . . and in this case, it is with the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ.

While not directly related to what is being shared here (believers in Christ growing in their fellowship with the Lord), principles that clearly apply can be found as we look further in 1 John chapter one. In verses 6-7, we find that fellowship has a relation to our walk with Christ. 

It is stated: “If we say that we have fellowship with Him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth; but if we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin” (1 John 1:6-7).

In verse six, we see that walking in darkness would mean one not having fellowship with the Lord. Verse seven contrasts this by saying “but if we walk in the Light . . .” (1 John 1:7). As believers in Christ, we “are Light in the Lord” (Ephesians 5:8) and are exhorted to “walk as children of Light” (Ephesians 5:8). 

And as we walk in the Light, this increases a believer’s fellowship with the Lord. As we grow in Him, seek to love Him more, seek to submit to Him, and come to know Him more and more through study of Scripture and prayer, the fellowship cannot help but to increase, broaden, and deepen. 

The life of a follower of Christ is indeed a journey. We embark on it as infants with just the beginnings of knowing and having this close relationship of fellowship with Christ. With time, study and prayer, combined with a heart that is seeking to submit to the Lord and to grow in Christ, maturation will come through the working of the Holy Spirit. And with this maturation, comes a deepening in this fellowship, this intimate familiarity, with the Lord.

A true and increasing fellowship with the Lord is not something that can come by living in apathy or complacency. It is the same as with any other relationship . . . it takes effort, time and commitment on our part. It is a relationship that grows and develops by walking closely with the Lord; by walking in the Light; by practicing His truth; by drawing close to Him in prayer; by studying and meditating upon His Word; by applying His Word to our lives.

When thinking of this fellowship, thoughts come to mind as to how this fellowship would be in part expressed: When difficulties arise, we run to the Lord in prayer seeking His guidance. When trials enter in, we first go to His word for His wisdom and counsel. In heart-rending or trying circumstances, we trust in the all-knowing and loving God. 

When blessings come, our hearts immediately lift in praise and thanksgiving to the One from Whom those blessings flow. When questions and doubts stir in our minds, we turn to the Lord for true answers and for His strength. 

Intimate fellowship with Christ such as this grows from the heart of one who has their mind “set on the things above, not on the things that are on earth” (Colossians 3:2); from a heart that is tuned to ‘hear’ the Holy Spirit’s guidance and direction. From one whose life is consecrated to God seeking to know Him more, seeking to follow where He leads, and seeking, because of their love for Him, to grow in obedience to Him (John 14:15).

God is near . . . always near and ready to teach, guide and direct us in His ways. He is near to comfort and to give us strength. He is near to bestow upon us the richness of His love, kindness and wisdom. He is there for us to have this true fellowship with Him as we seek His face.

May each and every one of us earnestly desire and seek after growing in this true, abiding and lasting fellowship with the most holy God, the One who has bought and redeemed us through the blood of the Lamb. What joy and blessing can come through having such an intimate and close relationship with the Lord!

-Posted by Sarah

Psalm 89 . . .

"The heavens will praise Your wonders, O LORD;
Your faithfulness also in the assembly of the holy ones. 
For who in the skies is comparable to the LORD? 
Who among the sons of the mighty is like the LORD,
A God greatly to be feared in the council of the holy ones, 
And awesome above all those who are around Him? 
O LORD God of hosts, who is like You, O mighty LORD? 
Your faithfulness surrounds You. 

The heavens are Yours, the earth also is Yours;
The world and all it contains, You have founded them . . . 

Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne; 
Lovingkindness and truth go before You. 
How blessed are the people who know the joyful sound! 
O LORD, they walk in the light of Your countenance. 
In Your name they rejoice all the day, 
And by Your righteousness they are exalted. 
For You are the glory of their strength, 
And by Your favor our horn is exalted."

Psalm 89: 5-8, 11, 14-17

-Posted by Sarah

Modesty in Dress

We recently received an e-mail from a lady who reads our blogs asking a question regarding our style of dress . . .

Sarah...awhile back, I read with interest your post on head coverings, and the ensuing discussion . . . I've been wondering about why the ladies in your family never appear to wear slacks. Could you elaborate a bit on how you came to this decision, scripturally speaking? I would appreciate reading your thoughts.

In response, I sent her an e-mail explaining the reasons why we dress the way we do. It was suggested that perhaps we could also share this e-mail on our blog . . . it is shared here in the hopes that it will be a blessing and encouragement to you, and that perhaps it may also provoke thought and discussion on this important topic:

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Thank you for your question regarding our dress and what scriptural basis we have for it! (And thank you also for your patience in awaiting a response! :) I will do my best to answer your question . . .

First of all, I would like to share that we have not always worn dresses and skirts all of the time. It was a decision that we made about eight years ago after much study of Scripture and discussion together as a family. While Scripture does not say that women must wear dresses/skirts, there are many verses and principles that led us to this.

In Scripture, we see that women are commanded to dress in proper clothing, which as defined by Scripture, is modest and discreet: “Likewise, I want women to adorn themselves with proper clothing, modestly and discreetly, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly garments, but rather by means of good works, as is proper for women making a claim to godliness” (1 Timothy 2:9-10).

These verses show that our dress should be modest and discreet. Noah Webster, in his 1828 American Dictionary of the English Language, defined modesty as: 

“In females, modesty has the like character as in males; but the word is used also as synonymous with chastity, or purity of manners. In this sense, modesty results from purity of mind, or from the fear of disgrace and ignominy [public disgrace; shame; etc.] fortified by education and principle. Unaffected modesty is the sweetest charm of female excellence, the richest gem in the diadem of their honor.”

We see that modesty is first in the heart and is then expressed outwardly, and Scripture shows that this modesty is to be expressed in our dress. It is also closely tied with chastity and purity—both of which are to be expressed in the clothing that we wear.

For ones making a claim to godliness and seeking to follow the Lord, our dress should be reflective of that. Our dress should be in alignment with such godly attributes as sobriety (1 Timothy 3:11 and Titus2:5), gentleness and quietness (1 Peter 3:4), reverence in behavior (Titus 2:3), and chastity (1 Peter 3:2). One must examine their dress to find if it fits within these attributes . . . or does it instead reflect negative attributes such as boisterousness, looseness, worldliness, flirtatiousness, etc.?

Perhaps one of the greatest reasons to dress modestly (besides the fact that the Lord has commanded it) is to help men guard their eyes. Job hinted at the ‘battle’ that men must fight for purity when he declared “I have made a covenant with my eyes; How then could I gaze at a virgin?” (Job 31:1). And in Scripture, Christ taught many times that looking at a woman with lust is adultery . . . so the act of simply ‘seeing’ can lead one to grave sin.

There is a passage in Scripture when speaking of sexual morality that exhorts all believers to not defraud a brother. It reads: “. . . and that no man transgress and defraud his brother in the matter because the Lord is the avenger in all these things, just as we also told you before and solemnly warned you. For God has not called us for the purpose of impurity, but in sanctification" (1 Thessalonians 4:6-7). 

To defraud a brother is to defeat or frustrate them wrongfully (definition taken from Noah Webster’s 1828 American Dictionary of the English Language.) Men do have a battle with their eyes, and they have a responsibility to guard their eyes. And as women, the way we dress has a profound impact on the men that are around us. 

As women of God, we should earnestly seek to dress in a manner that helps our brothers in Christ (as well as other men) guard their eyes and hearts. We should seek to not defraud them, but to help aid them in their walk with Christ. Dressing in a manner that draws attention to our form (tight and/or form-fitting clothing, low-cut tops, sheer outfits, etc.) is contrary to this. Our clothing should reflect our desire to clothe ourselves modestly and discreetly. It should draw attention to our countenances and not to our bodies.

Another aspect of this is that we are to not be stumbling blocks to others. Christ declared “Woe to the world because of its stumbling blocks! For it is inevitable that stumbling blocks come; but woe to the man through whom the stumbling block comes!” (Matthew 18:7) By the way we dress, we can either be this stumbling block to our brothers in Christ (and other men), or we can strive, as much as we are able, to remove these stumbling blocks from before them by dressing modestly.

In the Old Testament, there is also instruction given that women are not to dress in the same manner as men: “A woman shall not wear man’s clothing, nor shall a man put on a woman’s clothing; for whoever does these things is an abomination to the LORD your God” (Deuteronomy 22:5.) While directed to Israel, there is a principle in that we can see that the dress of women should be distinctly different than that of men for women should not be dressing in the same manner as men do. Women should be dressing femininely and men should dress masculinely.

In light of what has been shared so far, when we examine whether pants are appropriate for women to wear, several things must first be looked at. First of all, we need to ask: “Are pants modest?” and “Could they defraud a brother?” 

After reading (and hearing from my Dad, brother, and other men) how women wearing pants can affect men negatively, we came to the conclusion that pants without a longer top over them, do not fit within the standard of modesty. Pants closely fit the female form, and even loose ones still show the form of a woman well. Pants/slacks regardless of how tight or loose they are become tight across the back when bending over (or in other similar positions also) which reveals the form even more.

While a much smaller, yet still valid, aspect to whether or not to wear pants is asking the question: “are pants a distinctly masculine form of dress?” It was only in the past seventy years or so that women in America (and many other countries) began dressing in pants and prior to that, they wore dresses. Pants were known to be the male form of clothing and skirts/dresses were known to be for women. (And in our culture today, dresses and skirts are known to be distinctly feminine dress.)

Even though Scripture does not give direct instruction in things such as how low is too low for a neckline, or how long skirts should be, or the answer to the above question of whether or not it is all right to wear pants, we can determine fairly well the answer to these things simply by examining them in the light of Scripture (such as the verses shared so far.) 

When examining the clothing that we wear, we should be asking things such as: Could this garment/style of dress cause a man to stumble or sin? Does it defraud a brother? Does it reflect the attributes of modesty, purity, chastity, sobriety, etc.? Is it feminine or masculine? In all of our dress—skirts, dresses, pants/slacks, tops, etc.—we need to examine it in light of all of these questions . . . and then dress accordingly.

This area of modesty is a important one, and it basically comes down to a desire to clothe ourselves in a manner that reflects the attributes of a godly woman which is pleasing to God and also in a manner that will shield and protect the hearts and eyes of our brothers in Christ, and also other men. 

As believers in Christ, our “body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and . . . you are not your own . . . For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Our bodies are the temple of the Lord, and we should seek to clothe ourselves accordingly. To dress to honor Him in a manner that is modest and discreet. Dressing in a way that is not to satisfy or please ourselves (or others), but in a way that brings glory to God and in a way that is a witness to the world of the light of Christ shining through us.

I hope that helps to answer your question of what scriptural reasons we have for why we dress the way we do! If something is not clear enough or if you have any more questions, please feel free to ask—I would be happy to clarify something further or answer any other questions that you may have! :)


-Posted by Sarah

A Gentle and Quiet Spirit

Just a note . . . this post on a gentle and quiet spirit is an expanded and edited version of a writing that was posted shortly after this blog began . . .

In Scripture, God has given many specific instructions to women regarding her inward heart and character as well as how this is to be expressed in her outward demeanor. These passages of Scripture together paint a beautiful picture of what a godly woman is to be like.

One of these sections, found in 1 Peter 3, is always so convicting to my heart, especially verses 3-4 . . .

“Your adornment must not be merely 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 quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God.” 1 Peter 3:3-4

Often when reading these verses, the question comes to mind . . . what do these words really mean? What would these qualities look like lived out in daily life? How would these be implemented? When looking at the meanings of the words, it brings a deeper understanding of what our adornment, this gentle and quiet spirit, is to be like.

The word “gentle” (or "meek" as used in the King James Version) is translated from the Greek word ‘praus’ which means, simply, “gentle, mild, meek” (from Vine’s Expository Dictionary.) 

“Gentle” is also defined by Noah Webster’s 1828 American Dictionary of the English Language as “mild; meek; soft; not rough, harsh or severe”, and “meek” is defined as “mild of temper; soft; gentle; not easily provoked or irritated; yielding; given to forbearance under injuries.” 

Vine’s Expository Dictionary adds another element to this word ‘meek’ as it defines it as “gentle, of a soothing disposition” and that “Meekness is the opposite of self-assertiveness and self-interest; it is equanimity of spirit that is neither elated nor cast down, simply because it is not occupied with self at all.”

As ladies, then, we should strive to be calm, having a soothing nature in spirit. Our voice should be gentle and calm not loud, boisterous, rough or hard. Our words should be ones of humility and gentleness, soft and kind (though not to be misunderstood as compromising or weak.) Speaking the truth in love with mildness and gentleness. Not seeking to satisfy and please ourselves, but seeking to serve and bless others (Philippians 2:3-8.)

By the definition, another aspect of meekness is to be “neither elated, nor cast down.” These are two extremes . . . when things go well, one soars and is exuberant and elated. Then when things do not go as one plans, one crashes and has a downcast face and spirit. But the young lady with a gentle/meek spirit will not have these extremes in her character. 

Instead it will be: when things go well, she praises the Lord; when things do not go well, she praises the Lord. She rests and trusts in the Lord knowing that He will work in both of the circumstances for His glory.

The second word used here in 1 Peter 3 to describe the spirit that God desires women to have is the word “quiet.” “Quiet” is translated from the Greek word ‘hesuchios’ which means to be “tranquil.” ‘Hesuchios’ is also a form of the Greek word ‘hesuchos’ which means “still, quiet” (taken from Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible.) 

This word is further defined by Vine’s Expository Dictionary in which it is said that ‘hesuchios’ “indicates ‘tranquility arising from within’ causing no disturbance to others.” A tranquility that arises from within . . . this is from a heart that is abiding in Christ and resting on His promises. It is a heart that has a heavenly mindset instead of an earthly one . . . a heart that is fixed on pleasing the Lord instead of pleasing self.

Going back to the word ‘quiet’, we find that it is a word that is closely associated with meekness, and it refers to the spirit or disposition of a person. Noah Webster’s 1828 American Dictionary of the English Language defines ‘quiet’ (as used in 1 Peter 3:3-4) as “peaceable; not turbulent; not giving offense; not exciting controversy, disorder or trouble; mild; meek; contented.”

The words used to define this ‘quietness’ do much to describe and expound on what the “imperishable quality” consists of . . .

Peaceable: Christ promises His peace to His children, not as the world gives, but a peace which passes all understanding (John 14:27, Philippians 4:7.) We are exhorted to “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts,” (Colossians 3:15.) This peace should reside in one’s heart no matter how terrible or heart-wrenching the circumstances. 

The spirit of one resting in Christ will not be turbulent when trials or difficulties arise, but will respond with calmness and tranquility, trusting in the Lord. This peace comes in knowing that our God is in control; that He loves us; that He is upholding us with His righteous right hand (Isaiah 41:10); and that He “causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28.)

Not giving offense: It is important that we not be a stumbling block or an offense to others by not having this special quality of a gentle and quiet spirit being exhibited in our lives. (Again, this is not to be confused with compromising the truth.) 

We are to be “giving no offense in anything so that the ministry will not be discredited” (2 Corinthians 6:3), and “If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men” (Romans 12:18.) One thought given in Vine’s Expository Dictionary is that ‘offense’ refers to something which leads others into error or sin. If we are exhibiting the opposite of a gentle and quiet spirit, this could easily happen as others respond to us.

Not exciting controversy, disorder or trouble: A woman with a gentle and quiet spirit which is precious in the sight of God will not be argumentative as she will be one who does not assert her own will or desires. She will be one who responds to others with a gentle and calm voice and a smile on her face. She will seek to be clothed with true humility, recognizing that Christ has commanded her to put others before herself, and because of this, her heart will seek to be obedient to Him. 

We are to be lowly in our own estimation for God has commanded us to “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves,” (Philippians 2:3) and to “Be devoted to one another [i.e. brothers and sisters in the Lord] in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor;” (Romans 12:10.)

Mild: The definition of ‘mild’ fits so well with having a gentle and quiet spirit. One of the defining words is ‘tender’. When you think of this word in relation to ladies, what do you see? I see a gentleness, patience, love, calmness, femininity and grace. Noah Webster’s 1828 American Dictionary of the English Language includes in the definition words such as: gentle in temper or disposition; kind; compassionate; merciful; calm; tranquil; not stern; not frowning. 

Contented: As followers of Jesus Christ, we are called to be content. ‘Content’ is being joyful in whatever circumstances that the Lord has placed one in. No matter how lonely the life, no matter how little the physical possessions, no matter how diseased the body, we are called to be content. 

Paul stated this so well in Philippians 4:11, “Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am.” As we see here, contentment is not something that just ‘happens’. We need with purposeful intent to, like Paul, learn to be content in our present circumstances. To learn to be truly thankful for wherever God has placed us in life, joyfully knowing that His hand will guide and lead us as we trust and rest in Him. 

Having a gentle and quiet spirit encompasses so many of the other qualities that God has commanded women to have. If gentleness and quietness were ours and increasing, would not it be so much easier to respond with a submissive spirit? (1 Timothy 2:11-12; Titus 2:5). To eagerly help and serve our families? To be a helpmeet to your husbands if you are married? (Genesis 2:18; 1 Corinthians 11:9) To be modest in our dress, in our words and in our actions? (1 Timothy 2:9-10) The answer is most assuredly “Yes!”

What a beautiful picture all of this paints of godly womanhood, and this gentle and quiet spirit is precious in the sight of God. By exhibiting it, we bring joy and honor to our Lord, our Savior. What greater thing can we give Him, but ourselves walking in obedience to Him?

May each one of us day by day seek to put off the flesh and clothe ourselves more with Christ. May we, as ladies of God, earnestly desire and strive to become ones who are characterized by having this beautiful and imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit which is precious in our Lord’s sight . . . and all to the glory of God.

-Posted by Sarah

A Psalm of Praise

When reading several Psalms this morning, this particular one was a blessing to me, and I thought that it may also be to you, too . . .

Psalm 145
A Psalm of Praise of David

"I will extol You, my God, O King,
And I will bless Your name forever and ever.
Every day I will bless You,
And I will praise Your name forever and ever.
Great is the LORD, and highly to be praised,
And His greatness is unsearchable.
One generation shall praise Your works to another,
And shall declare Your mighty acts.
On the glorious splendor of Your majesty
And on Your wonderful works, I will meditate.
Men shall speak of the power of Your awesome acts,
And I will tell of Your abundant goodness
And will shout joyfully of Your righteousness.

The LORD is gracious and merciful;
Slow to anger and great in lovingkindness.
The LORD is good to all
And His mercies are over all His works.
All your works shall give thanks to You, O LORD,
And Your godly ones shall bless You.
They shall speak of the glory of Your kingdom
And talk of Your power;
To make known to the sons of men Your mighty acts
And the glory of the majesty of Your kingdom.
Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom,
and Your dominion endures throughout all generations.

The LORD sustains all who fall
And raises up all who are bowed down.
The eyes of all look to You,
And You give them their food in due time.
You open Your hand
And satisfy the desire of every living thing.

The LORD is righteous in all His ways
And kind in all His deeds.
The LORD is near to all who call upon Him,
To all who call upon Him in truth.
He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him;
He will also hear their cry and save them.
The LORD keeps all who love Him,
But all the wicked He will destroy.
My mouth will speak the praise of the LORD,
And all flesh will bless His holy name forever and ever."

-Posted by Sarah

Rejoicing in Persecutions

This is an area that has recently come up in Leah and I’s lives and has given rise once again to thought and examination of Scripture to refresh and teach my heart in how one should respond to persecution. 

Through the years, our family has experienced persecution, but it was not often directed towards me personally, but to our family as a whole. This past week, though, Leah and I went through having slanderous and false things being said about us and to us (thankfully our Dad stepped in and took upon himself the brunt of this - how thankful and grateful I am for his protection and love!)

I wish that I could say that my heart responded appropriately to all of this. Unfortunately, there was a struggle in my heart to respond as the Lord has called me to! 

For me, the tendency is to want to defend myself, to prove that the things being said are not true . . . and yes, even the stirrings of frustration and indignation began in my heart. 

Yet Christ presents a very different picture than this, a very different response. He has commanded that when reviled and falsely accused, we are to bless in return; when being hit on one cheek, to turn the other; to forgive immediately and completely.

When reading Scripture, we see that persecution often comes from those who are ‘religious’ people, even those who may bear the name of ‘Christian’. This was evidenced in Christ’s time on earth with the Pharisees, and is also shown in many of the writings of the apostles. 

In Scripture, we are also promised that persecution and revilings will come upon those who are following Christ. For “if they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you;” (John 15:20), and again, “Indeed all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Timothy 3:12).

Those are not very comforting thoughts when looking at it from an earthly perspective (which is so easy to do!). But God has instructed us to "rejoice" and "be glad" amidst such things (Matthew 5:10). It always has convicted my heart to hear of the apostles’ response after receiving floggings and other persecutions simply for proclaiming the gospel. 

When reading in Acts, we find that they were “rejoicing that they had been considered worthy to suffer shame for His name” (Acts 5:41). They were rejoicing after being beaten and threatened! What could cause such a response? What could so affect the heart to respond in a completely contrary manner than that which is natural? 

The only answer is that it comes from the Lord as one trusts and relies upon Him. The Lord is faithful, and as we seek and rest in Him, He will give us the strength to endure whatever He allows to come upon us.

In Isaiah, it is exhorted “Do not fear the reproach of man, nor be dismayed at their revilings” (Isaiah 51:7b). We need not fear nor be dismayed for our hope and peace is not in this world nor in pleasing men, but in honoring and serving the Lord. This is what truly matters, not our reputation, not what others think or say about us, and not what pain and suffering we go through.

It is important to bear in mind what our Lord and Savior endured . . . Christ, the perfect and holy Son of God, was reviled, persecuted and put to death. Yet how did He respond?

“. . . and while being reviled, He did not revile in return; while suffering, He uttered no threats, but kept entrusting Himself to the One who judges righteously;” (1 Peter 2:23)

And as He hung upon the cross, He forgave and entreated His Father to forgive them also (Luke 23:34). In Christ is our perfect example. How He responded is how we too should respond, for just prior to the verse shared from 1 Peter, it is said: “For you have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps” (1 Peter 2:21).

May we indeed follow in His steps when going through persecution and revilings. May we respond with His love, grace and forgiveness. May we truly, from our hearts, bless in return for cursing. Oh, it is not easy! But as we rest in our God and Father, He is faithful . . . He will give us the strength to endure. 

And not only to endure, but to graciously and willingly give the forgiveness and blessing.

“Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” Matthew 5:10

“. . . when we are reviled, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure; when we are slandered, we try to conciliate” 1 Corinthians 4:12b-13a

“Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.” Romans 12:14

-Posted by Sarah

Living for Jesus

Of all the many wonderful hymns, there are some that have, over time, grown to be at the top of my list of 'favorites'. The hymn Living for Jesus is one of these, and as of late, the words of it have been on my heart quite a bit. 

I thought that I would also share the words with you in hopes that they will convict, encourage and bless your heart as they did mine . . .

Living for Jesus

Living for Jesus a life that is true,

Striving to please Him in all that I do;

Yielding allegiance, glad-hearted and free,

This is the pathway of blessing for me.

O Jesus, Lord and Savior, I give myself to Thee;

For Thou, in Thy atonement, Didst give Thyself for me;

I own no other Master, My heart shall be Thy throne;

My life I give, henceforth to live, O Christ, for Thee alone.

Living for Jesus who died in my place,

Bearing on Calv'ry my sin and disgrace;

Such love constrains me to answer His call,

Follow His leading and give Him my all.

O Jesus, Lord and Savior, I give myself to Thee;

For Thou, in Thy atonement, Didst give Thyself for me;

I own no other Master, My heart shall be Thy throne;

My life I give, henceforth to live, O Christ, for Thee alone.

Living for Jesus wherever I am,

Doing each duty in His holy name;

Willing to suffer affliction and loss,

Taking each trial as part of my cross.

O Jesus, Lord and Savior, I give myself to Thee;

For Thou, in Thy atonement, Didst give Thyself for me;

I own no other Master, My heart shall be Thy throne;

My life I give, henceforth to live, O Christ, for Thee alone.

Living for Jesus thru earth's little while,

My dearest treasure, the light of His smile;

Seeking the lost ones He died to redeem,

Bringing the weary to find rest in Him.

O Jesus, Lord and Savior, I give myself to Thee;

For Thou, in Thy atonement, Didst give Thyself for me;

I own no other Master, My heart shall be Thy throne;

My life I give, henceforth to live, O Christ, for Thee alone.

WORDS: Thomas O. Chisholm, 1866-1960
MUSIC: C. Harold Lowden, 1883-1963

May this truly be our heart cry, our goal, our aim . . . May we learn to deny ourselves and live for our Lord and Savior. May we follow Christ as He has called us to follow Him, and that in obedience to His Word . . . and all for the joy of serving and pleasing our Master and Lord.



-Posted by Sarah

Complacency . . .

This is something we have all probably been guilty of on more than one occasion, and sadly, it has the tendency to creep into our relationship with the Lord also. We reach a certain point and then we stop (or at least become less committed to) striving to grow in our walk with the Lord.

We lose the desire, the eagerness, the heart to “press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14.) We allow the things of this world (whether it be physical, emotional or even ‘religious’ things) to cloud our vision. We become “stagnant”, allowing bacteria and other such things to take root and grow.

This spirit of complacency is a grievous state to find oneself in, for it leads to many negative things in our spiritual life . . . the lack of maturation through His word, closeness with the Lord, effectiveness for His kingdom, and the list goes on. 

At times such as these, I have oft found encouragement and conviction when reading in Scripture the heart cries of those who have come before us . . .

“As the deer pants for the water brooks, so my soul pants after You, O God. My soul thirsts for the living God;” Psalm 42:1-2a

“O God, You are my God; I shall seek You earnestly; my soul thirsts for You, in a dry and weary land where there is no water.” Psalm 63:1

What eagerness, desire and zeal lie in these declarations! As the deer thirsts for the water that sustains its life, so also should we thirst for our God . . . the living God. As the parched and cracked ground thirsts desperately for the life-giving rain to fall upon it and bring growth, so also should our hearts thirst and long after the Lord and His Word so that we can know Him more and grow, bearing fruit for His glory.

David also declared in the verse from Psalm 63, “I shall seek You earnestly.” The Lord, and He alone, should we whole-heartedly seek! For only in Him is life and the “living water" (John 4:10, 14.) Only in Him is truth.

It is also only through Him that we can “walk as children of Light” (Ephesians 5:8.) It is only through the “strength which God supplies” (1 Peter 4:11) that we can walk in obedience to Him. It is only through Him. Everything of lasting and eternal value and importance is only through Him. As those who have been “bought with a price” (1 Corinthians 6:20), He should truly be our all in all.

When this earthly life comes to a close, it will not matter how big and well-decorated our homes are, or what kind of car we drive, or how many titles precede or follow our names, or how many awards and achievements we received, or how well we were known or received by men – all this will have no value or importance. 

All that matters, in the end, is our heart and relationship with and towards the Lord and how we glorified, served and obeyed Him in this life.

This should be the focus, aim and cry of our hearts! To know the Lord. And not just know about Him, but to know Him in relationship . . . as our Abba Father, our Savior, our Redeemer, our Lord, our Potter, our Master. 

Then through this intimate knowing of the Lord, springs the only response that can come from a heart set upon Him . . . obedience. “For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments; and His commandments are not burdensome” (1 John 5:3.)

May we truly strive after and long for this heavenly mindedness instead of earthly mindedness! May we have but one goal, one focus of our hearts . . . to glorify our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 

May we be able to declare like Paul “I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ” (Philippians 3:8.)

“When You said, ‘Seek My face,’ my heart said to You, ‘Your face, O LORD, I shall seek.’” (Psalm 27:8)

-Posted by Sarah

Gleanings from Proverbs

The book of Proverbs is full of wisdom and instruction in so many different areas of our lives. From what words we should speak, to being industrious vs. laziness, to the description of an “excellent wife”, to warnings against drunkenness and perverseness, to exhortations to walk in humility and not pride, to showing the difference between the wise and the fool. 

It is a book that we would do well to read again and again and to strive to apply the vast array of principles to our own lives.

Many verses in this book have been quite meaningful to me, particularly the ones that speak directly to women. The beautiful passage in Proverbs 31 is perhaps one of the most well-known of these, and it is so refreshing, encouraging and convicting! 

Then there are verses such as the one in chapter 11: “A gracious woman attains honor, but ruthless men attain riches” (Proverbs 11:16) and in chapter 14: “The wise woman builds her house, but the foolish tears it down with her own hands” (Proverbs 14:1.) 

Also found in the book of Proverbs are several verses that speak specifically of women that are very similar to each other in context . . .

“It is better to live in a desert land than with a contentious and vexing woman.” Proverbs 21:19

“It is better to live in a corner of a roof than in a house shared with a contentious woman.” Proverbs 21:9

“. . . the contentious of a wife are a constant dripping.”

Proverbs 19:13b

“It is better to live in a corner of the roof than in a house shared with a contentious woman.” Proverbs 25:24

“A constant dripping on a day of steady rain and a contentious woman are alike;” Proverbs 27:15

Contentiousness is the common theme throughout, and one thing that these verses all show so clearly is the seriousness of this negative attribute. It is compared with a constant dripping; it is said that it is better to live in a desert land or on a corner of a roof than with a woman who is contentious.

But what is contentiousness? Is it just arguing? Or is it something deeper and broader? And in one of the verses the word “vexing” is also used. What does it mean to be vexing?

The definitions of these words (and others similar) present a fairly clear picture of what these words encompass:

Contentious: Apt to contend; given to angry debate; quarrelsome; perverse; exciting or adapted to provoke contention or disputes;*

Contend: To dispute; to contest*

The definition of vexing is equally sobering:

Vexing: Provoking; irritating; afflicting.*

Vex: to irritate; to make angry by little provocations; to plague; to torment; to harass; to afflict; to disturb; to disquiet; to agitate; to trouble; to distress*

When we look at these definitions, I am sure that we can all see ourselves in at least some of them! And we also see that being contentious and vexing not only includes arguing, but also exciting strife – saying or doing things that would cause others to become angry or upset. 

The word ‘contend’ also extends the defining by describing it as to dispute or to contest. Meaning, that when someone says or does something, we contradict it; we challenge what they have shared or have done.

The defining of the word ‘vexing’ is what convicted my heart the greatest when studying these verses for it is a more subtle thing than being contentious, and can often sneak in unawares. Vexing is saying or doing those little things that we know irritate or bother others. It is to stir up controversy or to draw others into arguments or conflict by our own words and actions – by “little provocations.”

The contrast of vexing is to “aid, assist, help, please and soothe.”** When reading these words, I am reminded of a cool breeze on a hot day; a gentle rain on a parched earth. Gentle, calming, soothing . . . radiating the love of the Lord and love of others to those we are around. 

Other ‘opposites’ of being contentious are to be peaceful, submissive, and having a gentle and quiet spirit. This is what the condition of our heart should be which is then expressed in our words, actions and demeanor.

As ladies desiring to follow the Lord in obedience to His word, we must strive to rid our hearts of the negative attributes of being contentious and vexing. We must “pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another” (Romans 14:19.) We must “seek peace and pursue it” (1 Peter 3:11.)

When instances arise in our lives that would cause us to become contentious, argumentative or angry, pause for a moment, pray to the Lord for His peace, joy and love, and respond with graciousness. 

Speak words that do indeed make for peace and the edification of one another. And may each one of us, no matter the situation we find ourselves in, be “diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3.)

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful,” Colossians 3:15

*Definitions taken from Noah Webster's 1828 American Dictionary of the English Language

**Taken from an online dictionary

-Posted by Sarah

Abiding in Christ

When reading in the book of John a few mornings ago, a passage that has always been an encouraging and convicting one for me spoke to my heart. I thought that I would share some of the verses with you also. The focus is upon abiding in Christ, in His love and in His commandments . . .

Abide - To rest in, to remain in, to continue in

"I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it so that it may bear more fruit . . . As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me. I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing . . . My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be my disciples. Just as the Father has loved Me, I have also loved you; abide in My love. If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love; just as I have kept My Father's commandments and abide in His love. These things I have spoken to you so that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full." Portions from John chapter 15

-Posted by Sarah

In Behavior as Becometh Holiness

There are many times in Scripture where specific instruction is given to believers in regards to their behavior. When looking at these verses, it is found that several of these are directed to women and are descriptive of what their behavior should be.

One verse that speaks in general to all believers is found in 1 Peter 1:14-16 in which Peter is exhorting believers “like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior.” The word “holy” in this particular verse is translated from the Greek word hagios. 

It was interesting to find that later in 1 Peter chapter 3 when women are being specifically addressed, a Greek word is used that is closely related to hagios. The passage reads:

“In the same way, you wives, be submissive to your own husbands so that even if any of them 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.” 1 Peter 3:1-2

The word ‘chaste’ in this passage is translated from the Greek word hagnos which is derived from the same word that hagios (holy) is. Hagnos (the word 'chaste' in this passage) means to be “free from ceremonial defilement, holy, sacred” (taken from Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance.) 

Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary furthers this defining by describing it as: “pure from every fault, immaculate; pure from carnality, modest.” Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament defines it as “Pure; a) pure from carnality, chaste, modest; b) pure from every fault, immaculate.” 

Within this word 'hagnos' is not only purity and modesty in word, action and heart, but there is also holiness. In fact, it would seem that the purity and modesty would stem from the holiness that is spoken of earlier in 1 Peter 1:14-16.

Further on in 1 Peter chapter 3, in speaking of a gentle and quiet spirit and submission, it is shared:

“. . . just as the holy women also, who hoped in God, used to adorn themselves . . .” 1 Peter 3:5

Here, women of God are noted as being “holy”. The Greek word used in this verse is again hagios. This is the very same word that is used when Peter is calling all believers to be holy as God is holy.

As holiness seems to be the deeper meaning and underlying factor spoken of in 1 Peter 3:1-2, we will first take a look at this particular word. The question that comes to mind is: What does it mean to be holy? What is holiness? 

We have in Scripture a perfect example of holiness for the Lord God is the epitome of holiness . . . He is “holy” (Isaiah 5:16; Psalm 99:3, 5, 9) . . . He is the “Holy One” (Job 6:10.) And “like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior” (1 Peter 1:15.) 

As He is holy, so should we strive to be. Holiness for a believer in Christ has its foundation in a devotion and consecration to God, and it is exemplifying, living and having the character of God shining through us as we submit to the working of the Holy Spirit. Holiness is a casting off of the flesh and an adorning with the things of the Lord. 

Noah Webster’s 1828 American Dictionary of the English Language defines holy as:

Properly, whole, entire or perfect, in a moral sense. Hence, pure in heart, temper or dispositions; free from sin and sinful affections. Applied to the Supreme Being, holy signifies perfectly pure, immaculate and complete in moral character; and man is more or less holy, as his heart is more or less sanctified, or purified from evil dispositions. We call a man holy, when his heart is conformed in some degree to the image of God, and his life is regulated by divine precepts. Hence, holy is used as nearly synonymous with good, pious, godly.

In the first two passages that we looked at in 1 Peter, both say that this holiness and chasteness is to be in our behavior. Behavior is basically our inner heart expressed outwardly through our conduct, actions and words. It is the way we act, speak and carry ourselves; it is our demeanor and countenance. And as women, we are especially mandated that this holiness be expressed in our behavior.

Due to the fall of man in the Garden of Eden, our ‘natural’ behavior, the natural man within us, is contrary and opposed to the attributes of godly womanhood . . . attributes such as: sober, dignified, gentle and quiet, submissive . . . and as mentioned here: reverent and chaste. 

All of these descriptive words can paint a fairly clear picture in our mind of what our behavior as ladies of the Lord should be, yet for the most part, they do not come easily! It is through submission to the working of the Holy Spirit and practice and striving that our behavior can come into alignment with God’s Word. Not in our own strength, but only in the “strength which God supplies” (1 Peter 4:11.)

So as women of God, we see that we are mandated to be holy in our behavior. In the book of Titus, another exhortation is given to women which speaks specifically of their behavior. The NASB (New American Standard Bible) translates this passage as:

“Older women likewise are to be reverent in their behavior . . .” Titus 2:3a

This verse is speaking to older women, but they are instructed to teach and be an example to the younger women as we see in the following verse. While we may shrug this passage off and say that as we are young ladies it is not applicable to us, it is important to realize that each one of us will more than likely be an “older woman” someday. 

In a sense, it may even be said that we are “older women” to the younger girls that we are around. Regardless, this passage is speaking to women, and no matter our age, we should seek to bring our lives in alignment to this scriptural and God-honoring standard.

As we examine more closely this verse from Titus 2, we find that the Greek word from which 'reverent' is translated in this passage is hieroprepes. This word means: “suited to a sacred character” (from Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary; it is interesting to note that this particular Greek word is used only once in Scripture and that is here in Titus 2.) 

The King James Version translates this word in this passage as: “as becometh holiness”. We see then that this reverence is closely related to what was shared earlier in this writing . . . holiness.

The question then comes: Is our behavior that which is becoming to a woman of godliness? Is our behavior, demeanor and countenance exemplifying these attributes of reverence and holiness? Are we truly striving to become women of God who are reverent in our behavior and who are striving to be holy like the Holy One who called us? 

Day by day, moment by moment, may each one of us seek to grow in these areas . . . may we seek and strive to grow into godly ladies who bring glory to the Lord through our behavior . . . with all reverence and with all holiness.

“As obedient children, do not be conformed to the former lusts which were yours in your ignorance, but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior; because it is written, ‘You shall be holy, for I am holy.’ ” 1 Peter 1:14-16

-Posted by Sarah