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WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT Enjoy Christian words of encouragement from the Bible, inspirational Bible stories, Bible verses to live by, Bible teaching, homeschool tips and resources, and healthy easy recipes.
by Linda Hull
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"I meditate on all thy works." Be Transformed! ...by the renewing of your mind
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In This IssueJuly, 2010, Volume 16.7 "And many nations shall come, and say, come, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, and to the house of the God of Jacob and He will teach us of His ways, and we will walk in His paths: for the law shall go forth of Zion, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem." Micah 4:2 Letter From The EditorCall upon the name of Jesus and you will be saved!
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Mission Statement:
"As we live out our daily lives, each must choose whom they will serve. I seek to maintain a close fellowship with my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and to serve Him as He directs. My desire is to be in the center of His will at all times. It is my prayer that Words of Encouragement will encourage and exhort all of us towards a closer relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ through increased knowledge, understanding, and wisdom. May it provide the help and hope you seek. May it strengthen the Church of believers."
- Linda Hull
"Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth?" Galatians 4:16
Letter from the Editor...
Hello!Hope everyone had a wonderful 4th of July! Let us remember to celebrate our Christian heritage and our freedom everyday of the year. This month's emphasis is about calling on God to bring healing to our land. As Believers in Jesus Christ, judgment begins with us. Let us humble ourselves and pray, confessing our sin and turning away from our sin to a loving, forgiving Lord. As we live our faith in Him in obedience, we will real change taking place in our hearts and minds. Standing for Jesus involves participation. It is not a spectator sport, but a life of service and firm support of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Before you continue with the newsletter, scroll down just a bit to hear the song "God Bless America" by the legendary Kate Smith. Begin Words of Encouragement by clicking to continue for the first article... or just scroll down to In This Issue. Enjoy! Linda
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"Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another." 1 John 4:10-11
IN THIS ISSUECLICK ON THE LINKS TO TAKE YOU DIRECTLY TO AN ARTICLE
| Call to Prayer |
| Stand for Jesus |
| Excerpt from George Washington's Farewell Address |
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Copyright © 2010 by Linda G. Hull
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"Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious. To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious, Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded. Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner, And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient; whereunto also they were appointed. But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light: which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy." 1 Peter 2:1-10
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"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." 2 Chronicles 7:14
2 Chronicles 7:14 is God's promise to Solomon that He would hear the prayers of repentance from His people. While this is specifically directed to Solomon and the people of Israel, it also applies to us. Notice this verse from 1 John 1:9:
"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
We must repent and pray now for forgiveness of sins! Our nation is in a shambles. By leaving God out of the decision making process in choosing our government leaders, we see the consequences. Be continuing in sin, in the idolatry we have embraced as a nation to value our ways over God's ways, we are reaping the whirlwind of sin.
"They have set up kings, but not by me: they have made princes, and I knew it not: of their silver and their gold have they made them idols, that they may be cut off." Hosea 8:4
"For they have sown the wind, and they shall reap the whirlwind: it hath no stalk: the bud shall yield no meal: if so be it yield, the strangers shall swallow it up." Hosea 8:7
The consequences of sin trickle down into every area of life and into every life. All are affected. Intentional rejection of God and His Word have caused us to deserve His judgment and condemnation.
Believers, it is time to humble ourselves and pray for God's forgiveness for our sin. We must seek His face and intercede for our nation and for ourselves if we want His forgiveness and mercy.
While sin always results in separation from God and judgment, God will reconcile with the repentant. Even in the midst of judgment, He gives mercy and grace. It is not too late to be reconciled with God!
Reconciliation comes through Jesus Christ, but it actually began in the Garden when Adam and Eve succumbed to the temptation of Satan. Consider this prophecy about Jesus:
"And the Lord God said unto the serpent, Because thou hast done this, thou art cursed above all cattle, and above every best of the field; upon thy belly shalt thou go, and dust shalt thou eat all the days of thy life: And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel." Genesis 3:14-15
It is Jesus who will bruise Satan, crushing his head, meaning that Jesus defeats Satan. Paul repeats the prophecy in his letter to the church in Rome:
"And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly." Romans 16:20a
God kept His promise. He had a plan from the beginning, choosing the lineage of Abraham to bring forth the Messiah, Jesus. From Abraham's seed came the lineage of Jesus. Through Abraham's seed comes the Hebrew nation of Israel.
"And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: and I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed."
Jesus is God come to earth as a man. His life is a fulfillment of Biblical prophecy; a demonstration of God's faithfulness to keep His word. Those who believe in Him and have accepted Him as their Savior and Lord of their lives comprise a great nation of Believers from every nation. Our citizenship is rooted in God's heavenly kingdom.
Jesus, God's Son, redeems those who will believe, from the control and authority of Lucifer. His death on a cross and raising from the dead three days later satisfied the redemption requirements of God's Law. Being redeemed, Believers have been set free and have received a new spiritual birth and a place in God's heavenly kingdom. Forgiven and cleansed, Believers now serve their risen Lord Jesus.
Believers, we are called to do good works in order that our Lord and Savior might receive glory and honor. Therefore let us pray for the lost people of this earth who are in bondage to sin and who are enslaved by their fleshly desires. Let us pray their eyes will be opened to their spiritual condition. Let us pray for their repentance and their salvation.
Let us Believers humble ourselves too and confess our sins and turn again to our Biblical foundation of the Word of God. Let us repent and turn from our sin and return to walking in the ways of God with a whole heart. Then we will find favor with God and He will forgive us and hear our prayers.
Then will our land be cleansed and healed.
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"As it is written in the law of Moses, all this evil is come upon us: yet made we not our prayer before the Lord our God, that we might turn from our iniquities, and understand thy truth." Daniel 9:13
MUSINGS... The Must Do's
"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service." Romans 12:1
"I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, with all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace." Ephesians 4:1-3
"Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them." Romans 16:17
"Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment." 1 Corinthians 1:10
"Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation." 1 Peter 2:11-12
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Honor God with your firm belief in Him!
Obey His commands.
Strengthen your Church with faithful attendance and service.
Give your tithes and offerings.
Minister to the needs of the body.
Live your faith in Him by taking action to side with righteousness.
Sign petitions that are in obedience to God's Word.
Vote! Support godly men and women of the faith running for public office.
Speak the truth by checking your facts.
Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers.
Help the needy and the poor.
Enlist others to the cause of Christ.
Share the message of salvation.
Pray for individuals to accept Jesus as Savior and Lord.
Bring people to Church.
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"Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is." Jeremiah 17:7
EXCERPT FROM GEORGE WASHINGTON'S FAREWELL ADDRESS, September 17, 1796...
"Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports. In vain would that man claim the tribute of patriotism who should labor to subvert these great pillars of human happiness--these firmest props of the duties of men and citizens. The mere politician, equally with the pious man, ought to respect and to cherish them. A volume could not trace all their connections with private and public felicity. Let it simply be asked, Where is the security for property, for reputation, for life, if the sense of religious obligation desert the oaths which are the instruments of investigation in courts of justice? And let us with caution indulge the supposition that morality can be maintained without religion. Whatever may be conceded to the influence of refined education on minds of peculiar structure, reason and experience both forbid us to expect that national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle."
It is substantially true that virtue or morality is a necessary spring of popular government. The rule indeed extends with more or less force to every species of free government. Who that is a sincere friend to it can look with indifference upon attempts to shake the foundation of the fabric? Promote, then, as an object of primary importance, institutions for the general diffusion of knowledge. In proportion as the structure of a government gives force to public opinion, it is essential that public opinion should be enlightened."
Washington, G. (1796). Washington's Farewell Address, September 17,
1796. In Henry Steele Commager (Ed.), Documents of American History
(p. 173). New York: Appleton-Century-Crofts, Inc.
"Inspired by great-grandmother's scrapbook, compiled before 1918."
Spread Your Wings and Arise
© By M.S.Lowndes
There are times in our lives
We feel much like
A flower struggling to bloom
We go through those times
Of change and growth
Like a caterpillar in a cocoon
Nobody can see
The Lord’s hidden work
Until the day we break through
Then we can begin
To spread out our wings
And arise as butterflies do
God has a much higher
Calling for us
And wants us to rise up in Him
We can make such a difference
If we’d only realize
The potential we have within
So allow the Lord
To work in your life
To make you all you can be
So you will one day
Be able to soar
And know what it means to be ‘FREE’
*Used by permission.
*Visit M.S. Lowndes website: http://www.heavensinspirations.com/poetry-to-inspire.html
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"I the Lord search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings." Jeremiah 17:10
HOME SCHOOL TIPS
IS HOMESCHOOLING THE RIGHT OPTION FOR YOUR FAMILY?
Most parents want to provide a quality Christian education for their children. Unfortunately the high costs associated with private Christian schools make it almost impossible. There is another option to consider: homeschool. Homeschooling is affordable and provides all the benefits of a private Christian school education and more.
Before you make a decision to homeschool, you need to pray and consider whether homeschooling is appropriate for your family and lifestyle. Unlike sending your child to a Christian school, homeschooling becomes a full time endeavor for the entire family. The required time commitment to teaching often makes homeschooling unrealistic for many families.
Lifestyle changes are often necessary if you want to homeschool. It is extremely important that at least one parent be in the home. If this is not feasible, there are other options, but none better than a parent. To afford the cost of curriculum and learning materials, you may need to adjust your budget and forego some of the luxuries you and your family enjoy. For some families the commitment to homeschooling takes precedence over anything else.
Determine the feasibility of homeschooling for your family by discussing these questions:
*Are you and your spouse in agreement to homeschool? The choice to homeschool should be unanimous. If not, then it is likely that there will be conflict. Children almost always are aware that there is one opposing parent and will use that to create strife over assignments, time spent on homeschooling, etc. Doubt over the benefits of homeschooling or the feasibility of homeschooling can drive a wedge between spouses and undermine the teaching. Both parents need to be involved with homeschooling or at least supportive of the effort of the one spouse. Don't be alarmed if extended family members are skeptical or unsupportive. With time, they will see how effective homeschooling can be.
*How much time do you have to devote to homeschooling daily, weekly, and monthly? Most states require a certain number of hours of study for each child. Consider your daily activities, including work and church duties, to determine if you can adjust your schedule to provide the time homeschooling requires. Be prepared to give up some activities if they will be in conflict with homeschooling. Homeschooling needs to be a priority in the home.
*Will your budget accommodate costs of curriculum and teaching materials? Many families trade curriculums in order to lessen expenses or they purchase used curriculum rather than afford the cost of new curriculum. You can save money by shopping curriculum sales and by purchasing in bulk. Even families on a tight budget can homeschool with planning and careful shopping. In fact most homeschooling families are on a strict budget.
Here are some commonly asked questions from would-be homeschoolers:
*I work, so is homeschooling possible? Yes, depending on your job hours and the flexibility you have at your job. The beauty of homeschooling is its flexibility. However if your children are at home, they will need supervision. Homeschooling is best accomplished if at least one parent is present in the home to mentor the children. Or parents can tag-team, switching back and forth as each is available. Check your state's homeschooling rules to determine whether your children can be homeschooled using a tutor or someone other than a parent.
However if your children need supervision or lots of teaching time, homeschooling may not be for you. Even though teens may be able to accomplish assigned work, they still need the interaction of discussion times and they need constant motivation. Left to themselves, children of all ages will do what seems right in their own eyes.
*My credentials to teach are lacking, can I still homeschool? Yes! Check with your state's homeschool requirements. Most states do not require parents to hold college degrees in order to homeschool. A high school education is more than sufficient to equip you to teach your children. If you find that the subjects in the upper grades are beyond your experience, you may need a tutor or you can try online homeschooling classes.
While you may feel ill-equipped to teach your children, many parents find they are learning as they teach. Concepts that were nebulous during their student years have suddenly, if almost miraculously become understandable. Age and experience do have their benefits!
*I have very young children in the home so will I be able to teach my older child? Yes! We did! Little toddlers love to play school along with older siblings. Make sure to include them in teaching songs, doing craft projects (as much as their abilities allow), story-time, and outside play. Give some one-on-one attention to your littlest students by holding them in your lap as you read, encouraging and complimenting their coloring etc. Teaching skills can begin as soon as they show an interest. Let them play with magnetic letters, math manipulatives, or simple board games for their age level. Older kids will love to practice their reading skills by reading to a little brother or sister. Don't forget to include them in prayer and devotional times.
*I want my kids to have socializing opportunities. Will homeschooling provide opportunities for my kids to participate with other kids? Yes! Homeschool children tend to have friends of all ages, learning to interact appropriately with adults and children of all ages! Opportunities abound for your children to socialize with others apart from the public or private school environment. Enroll them in library reading programs, clubs and organizations such as 4-H or Scouts, hobby classes such as ceramics or painting. Sign them up for sports leagues, and take them to Sunday School at your church. They will be sure to meet lots of kids. Join a homeschool support group! Don't over-commit your children to activities apart from the subject matter or they will not have the time or energy to complete assignments. Also don't feel that you must provide lots of activities on a regular basis or exceed your budget to make sure they have socializing opportunities.
Find more resources by scrolling down...
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"Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the Lord Jehovah is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation." Isaiah 12:2
THOUGHT PROVOKERSA Life Lesson from Dr. Homer Lindsay Jr.
The late Dr. Homer Lindsay Jr. was the pastor of the First Baptist Church of Jacksonville, Florida from 1969-1999. He was well respected by his colleagues and friends. His ministry impacted many lives, including mine.
My husband David and I had the privilege of attending First Baptist Church of Jacksonville under the leadership of Dr. Homer Lindsay Jr. fro, 1977-1981 It was a wonderful experience. We learned much about evangelism and mentoring others that has stood us in good stead throughout our lives. I am reminded of the message of the Great Commission found in Matthew 28: 19-20 that Pastor Lindsay lived daily:
"Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen."
Dr. David King, a Pastor from Oklahoma gave this personal testimony about Dr. Homer Lindsay Jr.:
"Homer Lindsay always taught four things: 1) Love Jesus, 2) Love each other, 3) Love lost people, 4) and be thankful. Whatever else you can say about Homer Lindsay, the most important thing about him was that he taught soulwinning. He taught First Baptist Church of Jacksonville to lead people to Jesus Christ as much or more than he taught them anything else."
May we have the love, zeal, and dedication in winning the lost as this great man...
Read more about Dr. Homer Lindsay Jr. at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homer_G._Lindsay,_Jr.
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"Sanctify the Lord of host Himself; and let Him be your fear, and let Him be your dread." Isaiah 8:13
"And having food and raiment let us be therewith content." I Timothy 6:6
Click on the links below to go to a recipe or the tip of the month or scroll down.
Individual Blueberry Cheesecakes
"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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1 cup vinegar
1/2 cup honey
2 tablespoons Worchestershire Sauce
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 lbs. beef ribs
1 teaspoon dried mustard
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 cup ketchup
Combine vinegar, honey, Worchestershire Sauce, ketchup, salt, mustard, paprika,
pepper, and garlic in sauce pan. Cover, and bring to a boil, reduce heat and
simmer 15 minutes. Place ribs in a single layer in baking pan, cover with
hot marinade and let stand 1 hour. Drain off marinade, then bake at 325
degrees 1 hour, turning and basting often with marinade.
*For fast and easy salad making, you must have an inexpensive salad spinner to dry greens. A salad spinner is also good for draining fresh berries and fresh vegetables such as green beans.
*Leftover greens will keep nicely in a Tupperware Lettuce Keeper.
*For small chopping jobs, invest in a small hand held chopper in a jar.
*Hint for fresher salads: Rather than mixing tomatoes, cucumbers, etc. into your greens for a tossed salad, try mixing your salad veggies separately from your greens. Add salad dressing to your veggies and toss lightly. These can then be added as desired to the salad greens. Makes storing leftover greens much easier and the greens keep fresher longer.
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