Am I a soldier of the cross?

We sang this hymn a few Sundays ago, and the words are both powerful and convicting. It is so often easy to miss opportunities to speak of and boldly stand up for Christ and His Truth with those that we come in contact with. One of the last lines of the song stood out to me particularly . . . "Increase my courage, Lord. I'll bear the toil, endure the pain, supported by Thy Word." What a stirring prayer that is! And God will give us all the strength necessary to stand firmly when we place our trust in Him.

Am I a soldier of the cross? 
A follower of the Lamb? 
And shall I fear to own His cause, 
Or blush to speak His Name? 

Must I be carried to the skies 
On flowery beds of ease, 
While others fought to win the prize, 
And sailed through bloody seas? 

Are there no foes for me to face? 
Must I not stem the flood?
Is this vile world a friend to grace, 
To help me on to God? 

Sure I must fight if I would reign; 
Increase my courage, Lord.
I’ll bear the toil, endure the pain, 
Supported by Thy Word.
-Isaac Watts



-Posted by Leah 

Photo by : Bruno Monginoux www.Landscape-Photo.net

A Precious Promise

"If I take up the wings of the dawn,

if I dwell in the remotest part of the sea,
Even there Your hand will lead me,
And Your right hand will lay hold of me."




"If I say, 'Surely the darkness will overwhelm me,
And the light around me will be night,'
Even the darkness is not dark to You,
And the night is as bright as the day . . . "



Psalm 139:9-12

-Posted by Leah


Photos by : Bruno Monginoux
www.Landscape-Photo.net

His Faithfulness . . .

The below hymn was sung this past Sunday, and the truths that are spoken in it were a blessing to me . . . no matter what circumstances lie around us, no matter how turbulent the times we live, the Lord is indeed faithful. He does not change, nor do the promises that He has made to us in His word fail to hold true. His faithfulness, His truthfulness, and His lovingkindness to us always will remain . . .

Great is Thy Faithfulness

Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father!

There is no shadow of turning with Thee;

Thou changest not, Thy compassions they fail not;

As Thou hast been Thou forever wilt be.

Great is Thy faithfulness!

Great is Thy faithfulness!

Morning by morning new mercies I see:

All I have needed Thy hand hath provided - 

Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!

Summer and winter, and springtime and harvest,

Sun, moon, and stars in their courses above

Join with all nature in manifold witness

To Thy great faithfulness, mercy, and love.

Great is Thy faithfulness!

Great is Thy faithfulness!

Morning by morning new mercies I see:

All I have needed Thy hand hath provided - 

Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!

Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth,

Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide;

Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,

Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!

Great is Thy faithfulness!

Great is Thy faithfulness!

Morning by morning new mercies I see:

All I have needed Thy hand hath provided - 

Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!

"Your lovingkindness, O LORD, extends to the heavens, Your faithfulness reaches to the skies. Your righteousness is like the mountains of God; Your judgments are like a great deep. O LORD, You preserve man and beast. How precious is Your lovingkindness, O God! And the children of men take refuge in the shadow of Your wings . . ." Psalm 36:5-7

-Posted by Sarah

Taking Our Thoughts Captive

As believers in Christ, there are many aspects of ourselves that we are to seek to ‘train’ in righteousness with the help and guidance of the Holy Spirit and the word of God. Aspects such as the words of our tongue, the actions of our hands, and the attitude of our hearts. Exhortation is also given in Scripture on several occasions regarding ones’ thoughts.

Thoughts are powerful things and can often shape, alter, or add to who we are as a person. Some thoughts may never be expressed verbally or in action—they may be something that no other person knows as they can be deeply hidden . . . yet the Lord knows each and every one of our thoughts. 

As the Psalmist declared: “O LORD, You have searched me and known me. You know when I sit down and when I rise up; You understand my thought from afar. You scrutinize my path and my lying down. And are intimately acquainted with all my ways” (Psalm 139:1-3). 

How very true this is! There is nothing about us that is hidden from the Lord . . . He is all-knowing, and He “searches all hearts, and understands every intent of the thoughts” (1 Chronicles 28:9).

Each and every day we have a great many thoughts, and the Lord knows each one of them; and these thoughts can either be ones that are pleasing to Him or displeasing to Him. As believers in Christ, it is our responsibility to follow the command to “examine everything” (1 Thessalonians 5:21) to find which of these areas our thoughts fall into. 

Is it a thought that is in accordance with Scripture? Is it contrary to it? Or is it a ‘neutral’ thought? Is it a thought that is in harmony with the fruit of the Spirit: “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23)? Or is it a thought that is borne from our sinful and fleshly nature?

As the apostle Paul shared in 2 Corinthians: “We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ,” (2 Corinthians 10:5). This verse is perhaps one of the most powerful and convicting verses in Scripture in regards to ones’ thoughts, as it leaves no exceptions . . . every thought is being brought captive into obedience to the Lord. 

But, what does it mean to “take captive”? Noah Webster’s 1828 American Dictionary of the English Language states that ‘captive’ is to “take prisoner; to bring into subjection.” When something is taken captive, it is captured and is at the command and sway of whomever has captured it. Here in this verse, Paul is sharing what he and others are doing, which we should also do ourselves (1 Corinthians 11:1), and that is to strive, with the Lord’s help, to take captive all of our thoughts in obedience to Christ.

This is not an easy thing to do! It seems that thoughts can regularly pop into our minds and we wonder where they could have come from; or, the thoughts may arise from a condition of our hearts (whether they are angry thoughts, impatient ones, etc.). This is why the ‘taking captive’ is spoken of in the present tense as it is something that we must regularly do with all of our thoughts. It is not a one time occurrence, but is to be a continual part of our lives.

Practically speaking, though, how do we do this? Several things come to mind which include: prayer; commitment; reading, studying and applying the word of God to our lives; and seeking to fill and occupy our minds with those things that are pleasing to the Lord. The latter, working in conjunction with the others mentioned, can have a profound impact. 

We must train our minds in how and what to think, and we must put forth effort to transfer our thoughts to the things of heaven as opposed to that which is worldly. As it states in Colossians: “Therefore since you have been raised with Christ, keeping seeking the things above where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on the things above and not on the things that are on earth for you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God” (Colossians 3:1-2). 

If our minds are set and fixed on the things above, where will ungodly thoughts have a place? Where will they be able to find a stronghold in our life? Again, this “setting our minds” is not a one time occurrence, but it should be a continual practice in our lives. Just as a person cannot run a marathon without training, neither can we set our minds on the things above without training. And in order to run a marathon, consistent practice, work, and time must be given to reach the end goal. This is the same with us with any aspect of our walk with Christ.

A verse in Philippians specifically addresses what types of things we should be thinking about . . .

“Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.” Philippians 4:8

The definitions in Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible of some of the words in Philippians 4:8 help us to gain a better understanding of what is being spoken in this verse . . .

Honorable (semnos) - reverend i.e. venerable, spec. serious

Right (dikaios) - correct, righteous [right with God], by impl. innocent

Pure (hagnos) - free from ceremonial defilement, holy, sacred

Lovely (prosphiles) - pleasing, agreeable

Good repute (euphemos) - well reported of

And in addition to these, anything that is true, of excellence and is worthy of praise.

These are the types of thoughts that as believers in Christ we should seek to dwell upon. These are the types of thoughts that please the Lord; and these are the types of thoughts that if our minds are filled with them, will leave no room for thoughts that are contrary to the word of God.

Ultimately, one of the most important reasons for seeking to set our minds on the things above, to dwell upon those things mentioned in Philippians 4:8, to guard our minds, and to bring our thoughts into subjection to Christ is because of our love for the Lord. 

Several times in Scripture it is said that obedience to Christ will be a result of our love for Him . . . “if you love Me you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15; see also 1 John 5:3). And the first and greatest commandment is this: “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind’” (Matthew 22:37). 

Out of love for the Lord and of a desire to please our Father, may each one of us strive to, like Paul, bring “every thought captive to the obedience of Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:5).

“that, in reference to your former manner of life, you lay aside the old self, which is being corrupted in accordance with the lusts of deceit, and that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth.” Ephesians 4:22-24

-Posted by Sarah

A Quote to Share

When reading a book the other evening, I came across the words from a hymn that were quoted in one of the chapters. This was not the first time that I had read these words, yet they still caused me to pause and consider them. They touched my heart and gave encouragement that the trials and affliction that the Lord allows into our lives can indeed work to draw one closer to Him and help one to grow in His ways. I hope that this verse blesses your heart as much as it did mine!

God in Israel sows the seeds

Of affliction, pain, and toil: 

These spring up, and choke the weeds 

Which would else o'erspread the soil: 

Trials make the promise sweet; 

Trials give new life to prayer; 

Trials bring me to his feet, 

Lay me low, and keep me there.

Words by: William Cowper

-Posted by Sarah

Discretion – An Attribute of Godly Womanhood

“As a ring of gold in a swine’s snout so is a beautiful woman who lacks discretion.” Proverbs 11:22

This verse from Proverbs is one of many in Scripture that speak directly to or about women. And in this particular verse, there is a contrast presented between outward beauty and the inward beauty of godly character. 

While physical beauty is what is applauded and sought for by the world today, in the scope of what is true and genuine, it really has no value. Another verse in Proverbs stresses this point greatly:

“Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised” (Proverbs 31:30).

According to Noah Webster’s 1828 American Dictionary of the English Language, ‘vain’ means “empty, worthless; having no substance, value or importance.” And this is the word that is applied to physical beauty . . . it is indeed vain. 

But a woman who fears the Lord and one who is adorned with virtue and godly character, including this discretion, shines with an inward beauty that comes from but one source . . . her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

A physically beautiful woman, however, is likened to a ring of gold in a pig’s snout if she lacks the virtue of discretion. Would the ring of gold stand out as a beautiful object on the swine? As it is dragged through the mud while the pigs wallow, does it shine forth beauty? The answer is, no. This ring of gold is not pleasing and brings no beauty to the pigs . . . and such is a beautiful woman who lacks discretion.

If we look further into this word discretion, we find that the Hebrew word for it, according to The Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew and English Lexicon, simply means “judgment, discretion, discernment.” While judgment is a word that is familiar to most, the words discretion and discernment are not as well-known, nor as well-understood. 

The defining of these words also brings a much deeper and proper understanding to the more common word of judgment. Once again utilizing Noah Webster’s 1828 American Dictionary of the English Language, we find that discretion and discernment have deep implications . . .

Discernment: The act of discerning; also the power or faculty of the mind, by which it distinguishes one thing from another, as truth from falsehood, virtue from vice; acuteness of judgment; power of perceiving differences of things or ideas, and their relations and tendencies.

Discretion is: Prudence, or knowledge and prudence; that discernment which enables a person to judge critically of what is correct and proper, united with caution; nice discernment and judgment, directed by circumspection, and primarily regarding one’s own conduct.

And since discretion is defined, in part, by the word prudence, we also may benefit from examining that definition also:

Prudence: implies caution in deliberating and consulting on the most suitable means to accomplish valuable purposes, and the exercise of sagacity [quickness or acuteness of discernment] in discerning and selecting them. Prudence differs from wisdom in this, that prudence implies more caution and reserve than wisdom, or is exercised more in foreseeing and avoiding evil, than in devising and executing that which is good. It is sometimes mere caution or circumspection.

Both definitions of discretion and prudence use the word circumspection which means: “Caution; attention to all the facts and circumstances of a case, and to the natural or probable consequences of a measure, with a view to the correct course of conduct or to avoid danger.”

When reading these definitions that aid in defining godly womanhood, we see that there is much wisdom and knowledge involved with them. It is examining situations and ideas to determine truth from error. It is seeing and determining right from wrong. It is judging one’s own actions and words to see if they are according to God’s Word. 

It is not ‘jumping in with both feet’ so to speak, but approaching issues, decisions, and other such things with caution accompanied with “wisdom from above” (James 3:17). And this caution and wisdom is not in human strength, feelings or emotions, or ideas, but must be founded fully and completely upon the word of God to truly be classified as discretion.

Discretion, as with any other godly attribute, comes from the Lord. It is through His working in our lives by the power of the Holy Spirit that discretion can be learned and attained. The Psalmist expressed this truth well when he cried to the Lord entreating Him to “Teach me good discernment and knowledge, for I believe in Your commandments” (Psalm 119:66; the word 'discernment' in this verse is translated from the same Hebrew word from which discretion is translated in Proverbs 11:22).

We see that discretion finds its origin in the Lord . . . it is given by the Lord to those who seek Him. And He has promised “Seek, and you shall find” (Matthew 7:7). Discretion (or discernment) is also learned through the study and application of Scripture, which is God’s word to man. The writer of the book of Hebrews shares a powerful truth while giving a rebuke to those he was writing to:

“Concerning him [referring to Christ] we have much to say, and it is hard to explain, since you have become dull of hearing. For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you have need again for someone to teach you the elementary principles of the oracles of God, and you have come to need milk and not solid food. For everyone who partakes only of milk is not accustomed to the word of righteousness, for he is an infant. But solid food is for the mature, who because of practice have their senses trained to discern good and evil.” Hebrews 5:11-14

What convicting truths are found in these verses! One phrase that particularly stood out to me was “not accustomed to the word of righteousness.” Are we accustomed to, familiar with, and knowledgeable about “the word of righteousness,” God’s word to us? 

Are we practicing God’s word in our lives, practicing His truths, so that our senses are indeed “trained to discern good and evil”? Or are we choosing to remain infants partaking only of milk and not seeking to grow and mature in faith?

It is only through “the word of righteousness” and through the Lord’s working on our hearts as we seek Him, that true discretion will be borne in our hearts and lives as we mature in faith. Discretion is indeed a precious and important attribute for women to spiritually adorn themselves with. 

May each one of us truly take to heart the truths and admonition found in Proverbs 11:22: “As a ring of gold in a swine’s snout so is a beautiful woman who lacks discretion” . . . and may we seek after a true and lasting inward beauty which is not only pleasing to the Lord, but brings glory to Him.

-Posted by Sarah

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