"I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. 

So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase.

Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one:  and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour.

For we are labourers together with God:  ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building.

According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon.  But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon.

For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.

Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble;

Every man's work shall be made manifest:  for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is.

If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.

If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss:  but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.

Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?

If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.

Let no man deceive himself.  If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise.

For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God.  For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness.

And again, the Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain.

Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours;

Whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come; all are yours;

And ye are Christ's and Christ is God's.

Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God.

Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful." 

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Stewardship Is More Than Giving

by Nancy Twigg

What pastors and other church leaders usually mean when they talk about stewardship is giving. But don’t assume that’s all there is to it.

Stewardship is just as much about living as it is about giving. Good stewardship is about being faithful in using all your resources—not only your money and possessions but your time and talent as well. Stewardship is a duty, but it is also an act of worship (see 2 Corinthians 8:1-5 and Philippians 4:18). How can we look at all that God has poured out into our lives and not want to use those things to please him?

Because Christians have experienced so much of God’s love and grace, you’d think we would be the most conscientious people around when it comes to managing money. Yet this is not always the case. A couple of years ago, I was part of a discussion about stewardship and how it is practiced by Christians today. Several women in the group made interesting observations.

Based on what I have seen, I don’t believe most Christians are faithful in the little things in regard to finances,” Angel commented. “It is often hard to tell the believers from the nonbelievers, based on their giving and money management. Many do not seem willing to help out fellow Christians in need other than to say ‘I will pray for you.’”

“I am often disheartened by the display of Christians in regard to sharing and managing our finances,” Amiel added. “If there is a food drive or clothing drive, there are many of us who participate, but what food do we contribute? What clothing is given? Often it is the cheapest of store brands, clothing that is far outdated, and toys that have missing pieces or are dirty.”

Another woman, whose husband is a minister in one of the largest denominations in the country, observed that most churches pay their ministers so poorly that church members could never live on those salaries themselves. The churches do this with the assumption that the wife will work to supplement the family income. This makes it extremely difficult for pastors who want their wives to stay home with the children. This woman said that she and her husband often see church members “blow fifty dollars on a meal” and not think anything of it, something the church’s pastors can never do. Not only do some members spend carelessly, they also make poor choices for their families as they pursue bigger homes and more possessions. This woman said she couldn’t help but feel frustrated at times to see Christians show so little concern for how they manage their blessings.

Hebrews 12:1 says, “Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” This verse reminds us of what we have been called to do in handling the resources God bestows. Like other forms of clutter, careless money management complicates life by bringing chaos and confusion to our financial affairs. We can quickly lose sight of what it means to respond to God’s goodness with a posture of gratefulness. But being intentional with our money clarifies life by helping us stay focused on doing the best we can with what we’ve been given.

I NEED A SAFETY NET!

"Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:  casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.  Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:  whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.  But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you."  1 Peter 5:6-10

As we enter into the year 2009, many of us are wishing for a safety net!  Times are tough and it doesn't look like there are any easy fixes.  Life isn't getting any easier.  In fact, life has become a little fearsome! 

Yet, we can embrace the year with confidence and hope.  Let us be reminded that we have a safety net in our Lord Jesus Christ.  He is with us, and we can be assured that His will is being carried out according to His plan and timing.  He provides our security in the midst of trials and tribulations.

"The Lord is my strength and song, and is become my salvation."  Psalm 118:14

We need not fear what man can do.  We have a friend in Jesus. 

"In God have I put my trust:  I will not be afraid what man can do unto me."  Psalm 56:11

"The Lord is on my side; I will not fear:  what can man do unto me?"  Psalm 118:6

When jobs are lost and income diminished, we can carry on.  Jesus promises that He will supply all our needs.

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

Our Lord Jesus is with us and promises to never leave us or forsake us.  In tough times, He will not desert us, but will be with us, helping us through every trial.  We can be content in the midst of adverse circumstances.

"Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have:  for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee."  Hebrews 13:5

How do we respond to difficulties and trials?  Like a good soldier of Jesus Christ.  We are not strong or powerful, but He is. 

"Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of HIS* might.  Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.  Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.  Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.  And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:  praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;"  Ephesians 6:10-18

He tells us to put on the whole armor of God that we may stand.  We must gird ourselves up so we can be ready for what lies ahead.  A good soldier trusts his commanding officer, so must we trust our Lord.  Let us not be slackers or sloppy in our Christian walk.  Let us be obedient and well-trained.

"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. But shun profane and vain babblings:  for they will increase unto more ungodliness."  2 Timothy 2:15-16

"But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts:  and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:  having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.  For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well-doing, than for evil-doing." 1 Peter 3:15-17

Christian values are increasingly under attack.  Our ways are not the world's ways.  As salt and light, we, by our very differences, expose the works of darkness for what they are.  The workers of iniquity are increasingly uncomfortable, which naturally leads to division, strife, and conflict. 

"Yea, and all that live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving and being decieved. But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them:  and that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.  All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:  that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works."  2 Timothy 3:12-17

Our battle is not against people, and is not to be waged physically.  It is a spiritual battle waged on our knees and waged by our meek spirits and love for others. 

"Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful [kind-hearted**], be courteous:  not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing:  but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that you should inherit a blessing.

"By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another."  John 13:35

When times are evil, we must pray without ceasing.  We must cling to the truth of God's Word, and refuse to be deceived by false teachings and philosophies.  Let us not be lazy but always to be ready to speak the truth to the seeking soul.

"Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of they ministry."  2 Timothy 4:2-5

Our safety net lies in the promises of Jesus.  He is our salvation from the punishment of sin, and His Word is true.  Believers, we have been forgiven and have been promised a place in His Kingdom.  That is our hope to cling to in the midst of trials, tribulations, and afflictions.  We are servants of our Lord, serving at His pleasure.

 

 

 

* Author's emphasis and capitalization.

** Author's clarification.

 

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"Have not I commanded thee?  Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed:  for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest."  Joshua 1:9

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GRANDMOTHER'S SCRAPBOOK

"Inspired by great-grandmother's scrapbook, compiled before 1918."

 

Standing at the Portal

 by Frances Ridley Havergal

 

Standing at the portal of the opening year,
Words of comfort meet us, hushing every fear;
Spoken thru the silence by our Savior’s voice,
Tender, strong and faithful, making us rejoice.

“I, the Lord, am with thee, be thou not afraid;
I will help and strengthen, be thou not dismayed.
Yea, I will uphold thee with My own right hand;
Thou art called and chosen in My sight to stand.”

For the year before us, O what rich supplies!
For the poor and needy living streams shall rise;
For the sad and sinful shall His grace abound;
For the faint and feeble perfect strength be found.

He will never fail us, He will not forsake;
For His eternal covenant He will never break.
Resting on the promise, what have we to fear?
God is all sufficient for the coming year.

Onward, then, and fear not, children of the day;
For His Word shall never, never pass away.

 

 

*Public Domain, http://www.utmostchristianwriters.com/

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"My flesh and my heart faileth:  but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion forever." Psalm 73:26

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  HOME SCHOOL TIPS

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Is Homeschooling Real School?

Yes!  For those who question the validity of homeschooling, this answer may come as a surprise. 

Homeschooling families often run into questions and doubts by uninformed people.  The other day I was at our local bank with my teen son who was opening a new account.  While our assistant was extremely polite, he did seem to have a fixation on our school code.  When my son replied he was homeschooled, he blinked and let it go, only to pursue it again a little later in the conversation.  Finally I explained that homeschoolers in our state must report to the local school district office, but after a child reaches the age of accountability, they are no longer interested in maintaining reports.  I also explained that a school code was assigned to homeschoolers for the purpose of taking the SAT or PSAT tests.  This response seemed to satisfy his concern about whether my son was really a student. 

It is not unusual for mothers to be questioned in supermarkets about why their children are not in school.  Most of us have learned to take it in stride.  Rather than becoming alarmed, questions such as these open the door to briefly discuss the huge benefits and flexibility of homeschooling.  No one is unaware of the troubles of the public school system.  Most who hear the good news about homeschooling become enthused about the possibilities and want to know more.

I remember my first encounter with homeschoolers was when I was doing volunteer work.  A group of homeschoolers came to clean our office, making it a weekly service.  I was very much impressed with their behavior, their willingness to serve, and the quality of their work effort.  Their testimony sparked my curiosity and won me over.

This year, the National Center for Education Statistics came out with new figures on the number of homeschooling families.  In 2007, they report that there were over 1.5 million students being homeschooled.  This is an increase from their previous report in 2003.  The exciting news is that homeschooling is on the rise, with a 36% increase since 2003.  Also interesting to note is that four out of 5 homeschoolers are only homeschooled, meaning they do not participate in any other instructional training in a public or private school.  When parents were asked why they homeschool, the majority said they homeschool to provide religious or moral training.  Another 26% homeschool because of concerns about school environments, and 17% were dissatisfied with the academic training available at other schools.  The entire report contains interesting statistics.  Click on the link to read the report.

It is encouraging to know that homeschooling is gaining more credibility, but we must not let down our guard.  There are those who still oppose homeschooling and seek to hinder families from educating their children at home.  If you would like to learn more about homeschooling in the United States or around the world, check out the Home School Legal Defense Association site.

If you want to homeschool, but don't know where to find information and need help to get started, check out my new booklet:  Homeschooling:  The Modern Day One Room Schoolhouse. 

 

 

To ask questions about homeschooling please contact me!  

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Purchase Christian Homeschool Curriculum and online courses for families who want to teach a Biblical worldview to their children. 

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This is a wonderful free downloadable program for all your record keeping needs!  I have used it successfully for years!

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"He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?"  Micah 6:8

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THOUGHT PROVOKERS

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 Excerpt from Chapter 2 of "The Inner Life" by Fénélon

"I find Thee everywhere within. It is Thou that doest every good thing which I seem to do. I have a thousand times experienced that I could not of myself govern my temper, overcome my habits, subdue my pride, follow my reason nor will again the good which I had once willed. It is Thou that must both bestow the will and preserve it pure; without Thee I am but a reed shaken by the wind. Thou art the author of all the courage, the uprightness and the truth which I possess; Thou has given me a new heart which longs after thy righteousness, and which is athirst for thine eternal truth; Thou has taken away the old man full of filth and corruption, and which was jealous, vain, ambitious, restless, unrighteous and devoted to its own pleasure. In what a state of misery did I live. Ah! could I ever have believed that I should be enabled thus to turn to Thee, and shake off the yoke of my tyrannical passions?"

 

Read more at:  http://www.passtheword.org/DIALOGS-FROM-THE-PAST/innerlife.htm

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"Cause me to hear thy loving kindness in the morning; for in thee do I trust:  cause me to know the way wherein I should walk, for I life up my soul unto thee."  Psalm 143:8

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RECIPE CORNER

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"And having food and raiment let us be therewith content." I Timothy 6:6  

 

MENU

Click on the links to go to the recipe or scroll down.

Oven Stew

Yogurt Cake with Orange Topping

Whole Wheat Honey Rolls

 

 TIP OF THE MONTH

 

"Hear, and understand:  Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man."  Matthew 15:10-11

 

 

* More recipes can be found at Free Recipes or Free Cooking Recipes.

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Oven Stew 1 1/2 lb. stew meat cut into bite size cubes 3 tablespoons flour or cornstarch 1 1/2 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed 1 cup carrots, peeled and sliced 1/2 cup onions, sliced 1/2 cup celery, sliced in 1/4" pieces 1 (12 oz.) can V-8 vegetable juice Place meat and flour in large bowl.  Mix to coat meat with flour.  Add all vegetables and mix again.  Place meat and vegetables in lightly greased casserole dish.  Add V-8 and enough water to cover vegetables.  Cover.  Bake at 275 degrees for four hours or longer until meat is done and vegetables are soft.

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Yogurt Cake with Orange Topping 1 cup butter 1 cup sugar 4 eggs 1 grated orange rind 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 cup plain yogurt 1/8 teaspoon salt 2 1/2 cups flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 cup of finely chopped walnuts Topping: Mix juice of one orange together with 1/2 cup sugar. Cream sugar and butter together in large bowl.  Add eggs, orange rind, vanilla, and yogurt, beating together with creamed sugar and butter.  Sift together all dry ingredients.  Add sifted ingredients to bowl and mix thoroughly.  Fold in nuts.  Pour into greased tube pan.  Bake for one hour our until done in 350 degree oven.  Remove from oven.  While hot, pour orange topping over the top of the cake.

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Whole Wheat Honey Rolls 2 (1/4 oz.) pkgs. active dry yeast 2 cups warm buttermilk 1/2 cup butter, melted 1/3 cup honey 3 cups whole wheat flour 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 1/2 -2 1/2 cups all purpose flour 1/4 cup melted butter Dissolve yeast in the warm buttermilk (not above 115 degrees) in a large bowl.  Add butter, honey, whole wheat flour, salt, and baking soda.  Beat until smooth.  Stir in enough all purpose flour to make a soft dough. Turn onto a floured surface. Knead until smooth and elastic. Placed in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size. Punch dough down. Turn onto a lightly floured surface.  Divide dough into seven portions.  Then divide each portion into six pieces.  Shape each piece into a ball.  Place two inches apart on greased cookie sheet.  Cover and let rise in warm place until doubled in size.  Brush tops with melted butter.  Bake in 400 degree oven for 12-16 minutes or until golden brown.  Cool on wire racks.  Yields approximately 3 1/2 dozen rolls.

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"For since the beginning of the world men have not heard, nor perceived by the ear, neither hath the eye seen, O God, beside thee, what he hath prepared for him that waiteth for him."  Isaiah 64:4

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TIP OF THE MONTH 

Get organized to remember important dates!

Purchase a new calendar with a large square grid.  Go through each month of your new 2009 calendar marking birthdays, anniversaries, standing appointments, etc. in pencil.  Begin now to purchase cards and gifts to use throughout the year.  When a gift or card has been purchased for a calendar notation, place a gold star on that date on your calendar.  Keep a plastic tote handy to store purchased gifts.  Inside your tote, keep a shoe box size plastic box to store cards. 

Time to cleanup Christmas decorations...

Check out my article:  Tips for Storing Christmas Decorations.

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Thank you and God bless you!