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WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT Learn more about Jesus! Let the Bible show you how to fix your life! Enjoy Christian words of encouragement from the Bible, inspirational Bible stories, Bible verses to live by, and sound Bible teaching. Learn how to homeschool and prepare healthy easy recipes. Scroll down for our menu...
by Linda Hull
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Copyright © 2011 Linda G. Hull All rights reserved. Photos are copyright © 2011 Linda G. Hull Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. |
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"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
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"Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth?" Galatians 4:16
Letter from the Editor...
Hello!I've been doing a lot of thinking this past month about God and about how He moves in our lives. It is so easy to become prideful and develop that presumptuous attitude that leads to sin. King David feared it, and so should we. My first article is understanding what it means to be a "man after God's own heart" and how that will keep us from presumptuous sin. Begin reading 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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"To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice." Proverbs 21:3
IN THIS ISSUECLICK ON THE LINKS TO TAKE YOU DIRECTLY TO AN ARTICLE
| Fashioned After God's Own Heart |
| Truth, Purity, Beauty |
| Getting the Message of Christ Out |
| Favorite Things |
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Copyright © 2011 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 (KJV)
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Fashioned After God's Own Heart
"Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression. Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer." Psalm 19:13-14
The Book of Psalms has so many great truths. Written by a bevy of writers, from David to Asaph, there are many voices who add their bits of wisdom and knowledge for our edification. My favorite, of course, is David. In Psalm 19, he praises the Lord for His handiwork evidenced in Creation, then his tone changes with a move toward the greatness of God. David acknowledges God's established statutes and laws for mankind. The transition continues with David, aware of his human frailty and bent to sin, begging God to keep him from presumptuous sin.
Psalm 19 speaks of the human heart that is focused on God. David is fully aware of God, and fully aware of himself. Who of us will choose to be so honest? We love it when God blesses us, but correction is bitter. David cries out to God, "...Cleanse thou me from secret faults." God called David a man after His own heart. Why? Luke explains the history in Acts 13:
"And after that He gave unto them judges about the space of four hundred and fifty years, until Samuel the prophet. And afterward they desired a king: and God gave unto them Saul the son of Cis, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, by the space of forty years. And when he had removed him, He raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also He gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfill all my will. Of this man's seed hath God according to His promise raised unto Israel a Saviour, Jesus:" Acts 13:20-23
How could David qualify as a man after God's heart? He had Uriah the Hittite killed in battle so he could marry Uriah's wife, Bathsheba. Is this God's heart?
When we think of this term, "a man after God's heart", we think of someone with similar preferences or desires, a kindred spirit. David surely doesn't seem to fit our expectation of someone who has God's heart. Yet, God says it is true.
There are several thoughts on this idea of being a man after God's heart. One is that David is like God because he is King over Israel. This one doesn't work for me because this was said of David before he became King, right after God took the Kingdom away from David. Another thought is that David was without sin, but we know that isn't true. Possibly it's because he wanted to obey God.
I believe it's because David sought God with all of his heart, all of his mind, and all of his soul. Despite his sin nature, he did demonstrate repentance. David readily accepted correction. David grieved when He displeased God, and mourned his sin.
David's heart was tender to the Lord, hence his desire to build God a habitation, a temple. The desperation of his prayer to keep him from presumptuous sins reveals his wisdom. When temptation strikes, will power isn't enough to keep us from sin.
Presumptuous sin is set apart by David. This is something he fears in his own life. What is it?
In David's position as King, his temptation was to become arrogant and overly confident. With so much success against his enemies in battle, it would have been easy to become cocky and take the credit. He feared a lack of humility. IF the sin of presumption had taken hold, he would have gone ahead without God. He might have chosen to build the Temple anyway, even though he was told he could not. Presumption is a terrible sin because it is rooted in pride. Pride left unchecked can become monstrous. Consider Lucifer who sought to be like God. He presumed he could become God.
Our Lord is so good to us. He wants what is best for us. He will keep us from the sin of presumption and its consequences if we will obey. Let us take a lesson from King Saul who disobeyed God's instructions, not once but twice. He presumed to know better than God. Let us not make the same mistake.
We are to humble ourselves before God and seek His face so we will know His will. We are to obey Him, not tell Him what we will do or will not do. Who are we to order the mighty God?
David was a man after God's own heart as Luke said. Why? He chose to humble himself and seek God's will, rather than his own. When he sinned, he repented and came under authority. He humbled himself to be corrected.
This is a picture of how we are to approach the almighty God. We come to Him with humility and respect and an understanding that we are not our own but belong to Him to do with as He sees fit. It is not the clay who tells the potter how to fashion it, but the potter fashions it according to his will.
Let us take heed that we do not become puffed up and prideful for any reason. Any good thing we have, comes from God. Let us rejoice and give Him the glory and praise He deserves.
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A couple of weeks ago, I needed a brief diversion, so picked up a book a friend had loaned me, originally titled, "That Printer of Udell's" by Harold Bell Wright. It was Christ-centered and an excellent read.
The name of the author struck a chord. Then I remembered where I had heard the name. A few years ago I came across some old books at a garage sale that seemed very special to the elderly man selling them. I looked them over and made a purchase, but never really picked them up to read. They were written by Harold Bell Wright.
I enjoyed "That Printer of Udell's" so much! I wanted to read more from Harold Bell Wright. So out of curiosity, I picked up one my books, "The Eyes of the World". This is an old book, first published in 1914.
As I started reading, I became curious about the author. I did a Google to discover who was this Harold Bell Wright. Turns out he was a pastor of a church in Kansas. He wrote "That Printer of Udell's" with the intent to read it over time to his congregation, after first publishing it as a serial in his denomination's journal publication where it was well received.
His books are about man's moral conflicts and the church's impotence in dealing with the ills of society. The stories I read are thoroughly entertaining with bits of romance, intrigue, and satisfying conclusions. Most importantly, they are Christ-centered and God honoring. He has a knack for describing a scene with such detail you can almost see it as though you had been there. This is a rare gift.
You may be familiar with Mr. Wright. He is more commonly known for the story behind the old John Wayne movie, "The Shepherd of the Hills" about a young man living in the Ozarks who hates the father he never knew. The story is really about the terrible damage hatred does to an entire community and how one man changed them.
The themes that concerned Mr. Wright are still relevant for today. He paints a picture of the world's pull and the struggle for righteousness each of us faces. In "The Eyes of the World," the story revolves around Aaron King, a young artist stepping out into the world to make his fortune, with thoughts of his precious mother's sacrifice fresh in his mind. For Aaron, the decision he must make is whether he will choose the world's way to certain success or stay true to his integrity and his calling as an artist. Many before him have chosen unwisely. While they have gained all the world has to offer, they have lost their souls. Aaron's true friends help him find his way to a new and worthy life. An engaging story of truth, purity, and beauty.
If you would like to read "The Eyes of the World", it's on Google Books, as are many of Harold Bell Wright's books. Read them online for free at: http://www.google.com/search?tbm=bks&tbo=1&q=Harold+Bell+Wrigt
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"For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe." 1 Corinthians 1:21
"He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds." Psalm 147:3
"But exhort one another daily, while it is called today; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin." Hebrews 3:13
"Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." Hebrews 4:16
"Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men's sins: keep thyself pure." 1 Timothy 5:22
"See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men." 1 Thessalonians 5:15
"Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord." Colossians 3:12-16
"Wives submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them." Colossians 3:18-19
"Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds;" Colossians 3:9
"Do all things without murmurings and disputings:" Philippians 2:14
"Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others." Philippians 2:3-4
"Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun do gown upon your wrath: neither give place to the devil." Ephesians 4:26-27
"And let us not be weary in well-doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith." Galatians 6:9-10
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"Prove all things; hold fast that which is good." 1 Thessalonians 5:21
Getting the Message of Christ Out
"So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God." Romans 14:12
Have you ever tried to explain Biblical truths to someone who doesn't care what the Bible says? It's difficult to explain basic concepts we take for granted. There are lots of philosophies and religious views floating around that do not match up with what the Bible says. Everyone has their own opinion and standard by which they live.
Sometimes even those calling themselves "Christians" do not revere the Bible as God's inerrant, infallible, and inspired Word of God. I was reading in the news just the other day about a pastor of a "church" who was quoted as saying: "(The Bible) is not a doctrine, but an anthology." This is a shocking statement coming from a pastor. It seems the Bible is no longer the standard for living even to those pastoring a church! More people seem to be relying on their own understanding of what is righteous and true.
I've been noticing how complicated it has become to witness to a non-believer. There are multitudes of techniques and rules about sharing the Gospel. We learned D. James Kennedy's Evangelism Explosion method, the Roman Road, and how to use a tract. They all have their merits, but, it takes time and commitment to learn the process. Frankly, sometimes these methods tend to scare a lot of people away because they don't want to put in the time to learn. Yet, whether we like it or not, we have a calling to fulfill the Great Commission:
"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." Matthew 28:19-20
I used to feel guilty for not wanting to participate when there was a big push to reach out to people in my church. In fact I was terrified. I didn't yet have the social skills to approach people I wasn't comfortable with, nor did I know what to say once I got there. Talking to people we don't know is daunting for most of us.
Jesus didn't make it so difficult. He taught the people using applications from daily life. He ministered to their needs. He earned the right to be heard.
Sometimes His words were simply, "follow me" (John 1:43). Then the hearer had to make a decision. He didn't always explain what it would mean to follow Him or what it would cost to follow Him. He offered the opportunity first.
The Disciples spent a lot of time with Jesus. Mostly they followed Him around watching and listening. It was that simple. They had an advantage over us. Course, they didn't know there was a purpose behind this crash course in Evangelism 101.
After a time, Jesus sent out the disciples two by two. Mark 6 tells the story starting in verse 7:
"And He called unto Him the twelve, and began to send them forth by two and two; and gave them power over unclean spirits; and commanded them that they should take nothing for their journey, save a staff only; no scrip, no bread, no money in their pure: but be shod with sandals; and not put on two coats. And He said unto the, In what place soever ye enter into an house, there abide till ye depart from that place. And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear you, when ye depart thence, shake off the dust under your feet for a testimony against them. Verily I say unto you, it shall be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city. And they went out, and preached that men should repent. And they cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed them."
Sometimes, the disciples invited others to Jesus with the simple words, "come and see" (John 1:46). They didn't go into long involved explanations. People had heard of Jesus and were interested in Jesus. His reputation had already preceded Him. People respond to people they know or know about. A personal testimony is often enough to give you an opportunity to speak about Jesus.
I've learned that righteous behavior and demonstrations of faith speak louder than words. People want proof, not just words. In defense of the methods and systems, let me say there are times when people do respond positively when approached with an offer to go into a lengthy explanation, and sometimes they will make a decision for Christ. However, oftentimes, they need more time to consider and reflect on what they've heard.
Knowing a person gives us an edge. The message of Christ can be tailored to their needs. People want to know what value they will receive from accepting Jesus as Savior and Lord.
As a bearer of the Good News, we need to be able to explain the value of a personal relationship with Jesus. What makes Jesus different from all the other "gods"? Remember the Bible isn't the foundation for life it once was because we are no longer a people united under the Judeo-Christian worldview. People are basically ignorant of Biblical truths. They need answers that are personal. They need to know the Bible is true. They need Jesus.
Some points to share when witnessing:
*Jesus is alive. He is not buried in an obscure grave somewhere. The evidence: He was seen alive after He was buried by over 500 witnesses over a period of 40 days.
"To whom also He shewed Himself alive after His passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God:" Acts 1:3
"For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the scriptures: and that He was seen of above five hundred brethren at once;" 1 Corinthians 15:3-6a
*Jesus is God. He was not just a prophet, but God in the flesh. At His baptism by John the Baptist, God the Father spoke from Heaven, identifying Jesus as His Son, while the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove alighted upon Him.
"And Jesus, when He was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon Him: and lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." Matthew 3:16-17
*Jesus has the power to keep Himself from being crucified on a cross. Yet, He chose to become the perfect sacrificial lamb to satisfy the requirements of God's Law.
"Then said Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into his place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword. Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and He shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels? But how then shall the scriptures be fulfilled, that thus it must be?" Matthew 26:52-53
*Jesus performed miracle after miracle to demonstrate that He was indeed God's Son with power from on high.
"And Jesus put forth His hand, and touched him, saying, I will; be thou clean. And immediately his leprosy was cleansed." Matthew 8:3
"And Jesus knowing their thought said, Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts? For whether is easier, to say, thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, arise, and walk? But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (then saith He to the sick of the palsy,) Arise, take up thy bed, and go unto thine house. And he arose, and departed to his house." Matthew (4-7)
We hear people say they want change. Well, a changed world begins with a changed person. Believers, we need to be the change agent that brings the message of Jesus to a world who no longer acknowledges Him. Start with the people you know...teach them about Jesus and their need for a Savior.
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"For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God." 1 Corinthians 1:18
We love to hike! This is a photo I took on one of our jaunts.
One of my favorite things is visiting new places. We enjoy seeing the sights and capturing the moment. It is wonderful to get away from the daily routine and all the chores waiting for us at home. We'll get those taken care of, but it's important to us to remember to spend time together as a family or as a couple. Marriages last because we learn to enjoy each other's companionship.
Exploring God's creation in our locale is a great way to interact with others, being a witness of God's love, mercy, and grace, especially if driving! Having a hobby of photography and hiking is a wonderful stress buster. Plus it doesn't have to be a huge expense. Consider packing a simple lunch to take along.
Many of us are goal oriented. So walking along a nature trail may be about getting to the finish for us, but that's not the idea here. Take time to notice the detail God puts into His creation. See the care with which each aspect of our world has been created and is being preserved. Realize our Lord is meticulous in all He does. His creation demonstrates elements of His character. Think about what is revealed about Him:
*He is faithful! He completes the job in His world and in us!
*He does not leave anything undone!
*He is meticulous, making sure everything is to His standard; uncompromising quality!
*He loves the details!
*He loves diversity!
When you explore His creation, you will begin to feel a renewed sense of awe of our Lord. It is natural to feel humbled when you realize again that each of us is one small spec on this earth. When you remember that our Lord knows your name, the number of hairs on your head, and hears your prayers, you will be thankful for such a great God. The God of the Universe is interested in you! Spend a little while praying, offering thanksgiving and praise for His work.
IF despair is threatening to take over your spirit, go outside and start noticing all that God has created! Don't constantly imprison yourself within the walls of your office, school, or home. That's depressing. Getting outside for even a short break will make you feel more able to tackle the tasks awaiting you. You will be surprised how much better you will feel with the increase in endorphins.
"The life is more than meat, and the body is more than raiment." Luke 12:23
Seek the Lord in all you do. Let Him direct you in your endeavors to explore His creation. Let Him cleanse your heart and mind so that you might be refreshed and renewed, ready to continue the race. I love these words I found in an ancient publication, written by an unknown author...
"The soul that longs to see My face,
Is sure My love to gain;
And those who early seek My grace,
Shall never seek in vain.
What object, Lord, my soul should move,
If once compared with Thee?
What beauty should command my love,
Like what in Christ I see?"
- Anonymous
Peaceful, isn't It?
*Poem taken from Google Books: "Scripture Texts for the Week." Christian Missionaries. 15 Oct 1879: 35. http://books.google.com/books?id=86MOAAAAQAAJ&dq=Christian%20Missionaries&pg=PA35#v=onepage&q=Christian%20Missionaries&f=false
Photo of Lois Rebecca Brice (1880-1918)
"Inspired by great-grandmother's scrapbook, compiled before 1918."
"Father, I scarcely dare to pray,
So clear I see, now it is done.
That I have wasted half my day,
And left work but just begun.
So clear I see that things I thought,
Were right or harmless sin;
So clear I see that I have sought,
Unconscious, selfish aims to win.
So clear I see that I have hurt,
The souls I might have helped to save,
That I have slothful been, inert,
Deaf to the calls Thy leaders gave.
In outskirts of Thy kingdom vast,
Father, the humblest spot give me;
Set me the lowliest task Thou hast,
Let me, repentant, work for Thee."
-Helen Hunt Jackson (1831-1885)
Written four days before her death.
**Learn more about Helen Hunt Jackson at the Colorado Women's Hall of Fame.
Jackson, Helen Hunt. The Magazine of Christian Literature. 3 Oct 1890: 58.
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"Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God." 2 Corinthians 5:20
HOME SCHOOL TIPS
Encouragement for a Homeschool Mother...
Some families are so discouraged after a long year of homeschooling they become tempted to place their children in public school, rather than face another year of the same. Let me encourage you not to give up just yet. Why? Consider these thoughts...
Homeschooling is not easy. It is extremely challenging. We homeschool parents sacrifice our time, energy, and personal pursuits. It goes against our nature to be so self-sacrificing. If you don't believe me, consider how frequently you hear other parents talk about needing a break from their children after even a weekend. It's easier to pass the task off to someone else.
If you are experiencing burnout, then take a break this summer from teaching. Store your materials and supplies and close up school for the next two months. Concentrate on getting rested and refreshed. It okay to take some time for yourself. If you don't, you will become stagnant with nothing to offer to anyone. So think about what YOU want to accomplish for yourself this summer. Here are some ideas to get you thinking...
*What goals did you put off?
*Do you have some projects you wish to do?
*Is there a Bible study you've been longing to do, but had no time?
*Is there a ministry you want to be involved with?
These are the starting point for creating your summer agenda. Remember key elements of a successful summer are planning, focusing, and accomplishing. Once you have a plan in mind, set some goals and write them down. Think about what you need to carry out your plan and accomplish your goals. For example: you may need a sitter. If possible trade babysitting time with another mother while you pursue a project or participate in a ministry. Remember to focus on the goals, taking each one step at a time to completion.
The kids are not your problem. They are also struggling with the flesh. But they are also wanting their mother back; you know the one who thinks everything they do is wonderful and makes cookies for afterschool snacks. It is tough wearing two hats and switching between the two roles. So make sure you spend time with your kids doing something fun. Be just the mother, not the teacher for the summer. Reconnect and reaffirm your relationships.
After you've had time to rest and relax and pursue something other than home school studies, your perspective will begin to change. Instead of focusing on the failures of the past school year, start focusing on the goals you want to accomplish with your children. Remind yourself why homeschooling was a priority.
When you are ready, evaluate what went wrong with your homeschool plan. Was it the curriculum? Did you feel overwhelmed with teaching responsibilities? Were there discipline issues? Once you think you've figured out what went wrong, get some help from experienced homeschoolers or write me an email, maybe I can offer some suggestions (woehome@frontiernet.net).
If you haven't joined a homeschool support group, I encourage you to do so. Talking things over with other homeschool families is a valuable way to discover new curriculums, get tips for juggling your responsibilities, receive wise advice, make new friends, and find encouragement and support to get you through another year. Finally seek out an experienced homeschool mother to mentor you in the process. Believe me, it helps!
Most of all, remember that we parents have been commanded by God to take responsibility for teaching our children the principles and truths of God's Word. They will not receive sufficient instruction in Sunday School, and none at all in public school. Check out Deuteronomy 6. We are responsible for training our children in righteousness.
All of us need our Lord in order to take on this huge responsibility and see it through to the end. Seek the Lord's direction and guidance for every issue and every decision, no matter how large or small. Remember the words of Hebrews 11:6, "But without faith it is impossible to please him; for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him."
Educating your children at home protects them from the ungodly influences of the world during their most formative years. Pray to stay strong in your resolve. Pray that your children will heed your instruction and will turn to the Lord with their whole heart, mind, and soul. Be ever vigilant.
*******JULY HOMESCHOOL TIP*******
Visit http://www.youtube.com/user/plaidcrafts for craft ideas. The videos of Donna Dewberry teaching her one stroke painting method are awesome!
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HOMESCHOOL RESOURCES:
When we began our homeschooling journey, there were few resources to help us get started. We too struggled to find information, resources, and support for our journey. Homeschooling is more mainstream today, and for that I am truly thankful.
Still, there are times when reading about another's journey and gathering from the experience of others can inspire and be a help in time of need. To ask questions about homeschooling please contact me!
My new booklet is available to help you on your journey:
Homeschooling: The Modern Day One Room Schoolhouse.
>>>Just click on the book cover or the link above to go directly to the secure store site to order.
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***Click on my Homeschool Squidoo Lens icon for more homeschool info:
***Check out my Homeschool Encouragement Designs store for products geared to kids and homeschooling!
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This is a free downloadable program for all your record keeping needs! I have used it successfully for years! Record keeping couldn't be easier or quicker!
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"Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer; distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality." Romans 12:10-13
THOUGHT PROVOKERSThe Formation of the Ladies' Christian Commission...
This is an excerpt from an address given by Rev. Dr. Kirk, of the Congregational Church in Boston in 1864, at an organization meeting for the purpose of establishing ladies' commissions in all the churches across the country. These Christian ladies were to be used for the purpose of ministering to the needs of the soldiers and caring for the wounded of the Civil War also known as the War Between the States.
"There was a woman, who, whatever she was or was not, whatever she did or failed to do, had made up her mind to love Jesus her Redeemer with her whole heart. Nothing was too precious to give Him; no expression of love or gratitude to Him could be extravagant. But what could she do? There were no rules laid down by the Church to guide her. There were no recognized models for her to imitate. What then did she do? She consulted her own heart, and that told her what to do. But there was, after all, no great value in the act she did perform. The Lord, indeed, made a kindly interpretation of it, when He said that she had done this for the day of His burial. But it had no real value in that direction, for God was not to suffer His Holy One to see corruption. Let us then look at the act, and His sentence pronounced upon it when it was censured. This woman purchased an alabaster box of costly perfume, and carried it to the house where Jesus was entertained at a supper. Breaking the box, she poured the precious contents on His sacred person, washing His feet with her grateful tears, and wiping them with her hair.
When Jesus heard the cold, cynical, selfish grumbler object to the action, what was His reply? A precious sentence: "She hath done what she could." That is enough, humble, obscure, diffident sister. To meet His approval, you are not to seek nor gain that of any other; you are not to imitate or equal any other; you are not necessarily even to escape the censure of others. Do what you can for Christ.
But who is to measure your ability? One who, for your sake, exchanged a throne for a gibbet; who, to secure your life, gave Himself to death; one who thoroughly reads the heart; one who requires no brilliant display of affection, but rightly interprets a tear or a sigh; who puts a high value upon a little box of ointment, an unobserved desire to touch only the hem of His robe, a cup of cold water given in His name, or two mites thrown into His treasury.
BUT, WHAT CAN YOU DO?
What can the weakest or obscurest do? First of all, you can love your Redeemer, and consecrate yourself to His service. He is worthy of all, and infinitely more than you can render. Give it to Him, all the wealth and strength of your love and confidence. Give Him the first place, and then every human being can have his proper place. Live in Him; live for Him."
"A National Movement for Organizing Ladies' Christian Commissions." Ladies Christian Commissions: Auxillary to the U.S. Christian Commission (1864): 4-5.
http://books.google.com/books?id=YWNK-jEQsGgC&printsec=frontcover&dq=Christian+Ladies&hl=en&ei=kRAOTvzRBaK30AH1u_yrDg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=2&ved=0CE0Q6AEwAQ#v=onepage&q&f=false
The
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