Tuesday, December 31st

The sign in front of Lock Haven was changed to reflect the coming new year.  Did you notice it?  "Changing calendar; Unchanging God".  Such a simple one-liner, really.  None of us know what 2014 holds.  It could be the year The Lord comes back!  Or it may be the year that you're going to face unthinkable tragedy or discouragement.  We don't have the power to see into the future, and frankly, I guess I'm glad.  If we could somehow gaze into weeks, months, or years up the road, we may see wonderful events---too marvelous to even comprehend, and likely, we'd get very anxious for the good days to hurry up and arrive.  On the other hand, if we could glimpse the days that were tragic and heartbreaking, we'd spend every waking moment preoccupied with the dread of what we knew was coming.   God, in His mercy, lets us see only one day at a time.  And, even though none of us are certain what our future holds, we can absolutely know that whatever awaits, it'll all be ok because Christ stands by our side.  I can face tomorrow, whatever the day may look like, because He lives.  I'm not saying that just because you have Jesus there won't be any heartache, grief, or sadness; that's simply not true because the Bible tells us in Matthew 5:45 that, 

 "he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust."

To assume that trials won't come your way because you're a Christian is not realistic.  The troubles won't be less, but the mechanism for coping will be.  

In 2014, we can depend upon our unchanging God.  If you truly believe that God holds your tomorrow, it WILL change the way you handle life today.  Happy New Year's, girls.  May this be the year that the Lord is more precious than He's ever been in your life.  I love each of you.

Scripture Reading for the Day:

Proverbs 31
II Thessalonians 2

Monday, December 30th

As I begin writing today's devotional, it is just after Lock Haven's girls' loss in volleyball to Pine Bluff.  In one 10-minute game, I saw our best attributes...and our worst.  For those of you who watched or played, I know you'll agree.  

When one of you missed a serve or volleyed out of bounds, the rest of you were very quick to say, "Good try, girl, keep going!"  That is what being a team player is all about.  Did you know that as Chrisitans, we are supposed to be team players?  

"Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do."

We are supposed to act on the Christian battlefield exactly as I saw you girls act on that volleyball court---unified and supportive of one another.  

However, if you were on that court today, you also got a glimpse of what areas the Lord is seeking to change in our lives.  There were some "hecklers" in the crowd, weren't there?  And, though the boys were just teasing, it bothered us, didn't it?  We quickly forgot the motivation for the game---to play to the best of our abilities and have fun together.  In the same way, as Christians, we sometimes forget our motivation and at the first sign of a "heckler" (someone who teases or is mean-spirited about our faith), we throw up our hands in defeat.  

Girls, there will always be people and circumstances that will provoke you.  But, through Christ we can overcome the provocation to be a light for Jesus.  Remember your motivation.  We are to serve God with our whole hearts---even when it would be easier to treat people the way that they've treated us.

Scripture Reading for the Day:

Proverbs 30
II Thessalonians 1

Sunday, December 29th

Well, tomorrow is the day, girls!  I pray that this camp will be our best ever and that we will see all of you making decisions for Christ that will be cemented in your hearts until the Lord returns.

Earlier in the year, I told you that I'd be randomly covering modesty in our clothing choices.  It's definitely not an issue that I want to dominate this Beautiful Girlhood blog, but it is an issue that is relevant in your (our) lives.  So, with that in mind, I came across this very concise list of guidelines written by Michelle Hyatt to help us make those last minute decisions about whether we ought to wear something or not.  I thought the list was practical, and I hope that it will help each of you, too.  

1.)  If you have trouble getting into or out of it, it is probably not modest.

 

2.)  If you have to be careful when you sit down or bend over, it is probably not modest.

 

3.)  If people look at any part of your body before looking at your face, it is probably not modest.

 

4.)  If you can see your most private body parts or an outline of those parts under the fabric, it is probably not modest.

Hmmm, thought provoking, right?  As you are planning what to wear to camp this week, consider the motivation for those choices. 

Let's have a great week, sweet girls.  I'm so excited for the privilege of being with you for the next 3 days!
  Scripture Reading for the Day:

Proverbs 29
I Thessalonians 5

Saturday, December 28th

I know all of you are just as excited as I am about camp Monday!  It's always such a spiritually-refreshing time together.  After camp, we normally come back closer as a group with a renewed determination to live for Christ.  You're making memories, girls, so cherish these few days with your youth group, and yield yourselves to the working of the Holy Spirit. 

In order for the Lord to work in us though, we need to be clean, willing vessels. 

Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:

And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

Psalm 139:23-24

 

To be spiritually refreshed, we have to be ready to hear from the Lord.  Is that the reason you are going to camp?  Believe me, girls, you will get out of camp what you are putting in to camp.  So, if you're going to scope out the guys, you'll certainly have a great time.  But, if there is a longing, even the faintest desire, for something deeper with the Lord...something real...then you have to prepare. 

 

1.) Ask God to reveal the things in your life that are hindering your spiritual growth.  Now, don't ask if you don't really want to know:-)

2.) Seek God for genuine change in your heart---not just a camp "experience" but a lasting, peace-filling difference.

3.) Bathe our whole group in prayer.  There may be some of our youth who've never been saved.  Pray that we will be drawn closer to the Lord and to one another.

4.) Commit yourself to being drama-free during camp.  One of the greatest hindrances to the Lord's conviction is that of peer pressure.  Leave the drama in the church parking lot.

 

You are my heartbeat, Beautiful Girls.

 



Scripture Reading for the Day:

Proverbs 28
I Thessalonians 4

Friday, December 27th: Guest Writer, Mrs. Lois Ormsby

“And all the people went their way to eat, and to drink, and to send portions, and to make great mirth, because they had understood the words that were declared unto them.” ~ Nehemiah 8:12

Ok, girls, I know Christmas is over and all, but this was just too neat for me not to share it with you!  On Christmas day as I was reading my Bible, the LORD pointed out this verse to me.  It is similar to the verse I shared a few days ago from Esther, when the Jews began celebrating Purim.  If you read earlier in Nehemiah chapter 8, Nehemiah and Ezra even instructed the people to “…send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared…”.  They did this in celebrating Purim, also, if you remember.

The part of this verse that I want to draw your attention to, though, is the last part,

“…because they had understood the words that were declared unto them.”

The Israelites were celebrating because the words of the LORD were explained to them – they finally understood the bigger picture of the portion of Scripture that they heard.

So, what does this have to do with us in 2013?

The biggest thing we have to celebrate at Christmastime, girls, is the fact that we understand why Jesus was born as a human baby on this earth!  We understand that Jesus was born to die, that He might rise from the dead and claim the victory over our sin! How do we understand this? Through the Bible, God’s very Words given to us in a beautiful Book!

Isn’t that so cool?

Scripture Reading for the Day:

Proverbs 27
I Thessalonians 3

Thursday, December 26th

It is normal to experience some measure of "let down"after a big event?  Some new mommies have reported feeling this way after the birth of a child.  Any event that you've been looking forward to with great anticipation has the potential to afterward leave you with the feeling of, "Is that it?? So, it's over now?"  Christmas can be like that for many.  Some have spent so much time building up a particular event or a special day in their minds that when the day or the occasion arrives and it's not all that they hoped it'd be, they find themselves feeling a little down or maybe even totally depressed. 

I hope that's not you this morning, girls.  But, if it is, take heart: you are not alone.  Christmas can be a really, really sad time for many, but it doesn't have to be!  The real joy in Christmas is found not only on December 25th or in any particular event or in any gift.  The real joy that Christmas represents is yours to celebrate every single day! 

If you felt the after-the-holidays-blues set it, don't allow yourself to wallow in it.  Remember Who this holiday is for and bask in the warmth of knowing that the warm, all-surrounding love of Christmas is the same peaceful emotion that the Lord longs to give us every day. 

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.  ~John 14:27

Scripture Reading for the Day:

Proverbs 26
I Thessalonians 2

Wednesday, December 25th--Guest Writer, Mrs. Lois Ormsby

Silent night, holy night, all is calm, all is bright

Round yon virgin, mother and child,

Holy Infant, so tender and mild

Sleep in heavenly peace, sleep in heavenly peace.

…do you ever wonder what the story behind a hymn is? How did it get written? Who wrote the song? Well, today I wanted to share with you girls the precious story of this classic Christmas hymn, “Silent Night.”

In 1818, assistant pastor Joseph Mohr was finalizing the plans for the Christmas Eve service, just hours away from its beginning. To his horror he realized that mice had destroyed part of the organ’s mechanisms and that there was no time to fix the organ before the service. He asked God to come through for him, because he knew a Christmas Eve service without music simply wouldn’t do. The LORD reminded him of a poem he had written years before, and he searched diligently through his belongings until he found it – the poem was the words we sing today as “Silent Night.” He rushed over to one of his church member’s homes, asking a young man to write music for the words. The young man agreed, and that night for the Christmas Eve service, “Silent Night” was sung for the very first time, with a guitar as the only musical accompaniment.

In 2013, we might read such a story and think, “Seriously, that could not have happened just like that. It’s too perfect of a story.” But, we have to remember that the God of the Bible was the God of 1818; and the God of 1818 IS the God of 2013, too. God does great things for His children when they seek His face.

Did you like that hymn story, girls? I did a whole year of hymn study in college, and I’d love to share more stories with you in the future – if you liked this hymn story, let me know what other hymn(s) you would like to learn more about!

 Scripture Reading for the Day:

Proverbs 25
I Thessalonians 1

Tuesday, December 24th

Noel---a common word at Christmas.  What is its meaning?  Its definition is simple: a Christmas carol.  In the tradition hymn, The First Noel, the first stanza tells us that the first Christmas carol was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay keeping their sheep.

Have you ever wondered why the angel announced the Savior's arrival to, as Benji said in the Christmas play, a bunch of scroungy field rats?  Why didn't the angels appear to the religious leaders?  Why not to the priests?


I believe that the angel appeared unto those that were looking for him.  The shepherds didn't sit down and discuss what happened; the angel made the birth announcement and the shepherds made the decision to,

go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. Luke 2:15

 

The shepherds didn't call for the priests to ask what the angel meant by announcing a Savior had been born.  They knew.  They were expecting the Messiah.  The angel appeared unto these lowly, humble shepherds because their hearts were seeking Him.

 

Are you seeking the Lord?  Are you watching and waiting for Him?  He works in the hearts of His children who are longing for His presence.  Would you have been in the crowd of the shepherds....or the religious crowd?

 

Scripture Reading for the Day:

Proverbs 24
Colossians 4

Monday, December 23rd---Guest Writer, Mrs. Lois Ormsby

“Use hospitality one to another without grudging.”

~ 1 Peter 4:9

Webster’s Dictionary defines hospitality as “The act or practice of receiving and entertaining strangers or guests without reward, or with kind and generous liberality.” Hospitality is something we hear and think, “oh, that’s for our moms to do!” But did you know that you can practice hospitality, even as a teen girl?

Because of Christmastime, we have had a lot of visitors at church in the month of December. Single mothers, widowed fathers, teenaged girls, young adult men, elderly grandparents…I believe we have had someone from each of these categories and more, just in the past four weeks! What a blessing to have so many new faces to greet and welcome to our church.

Hospitality is not just something we do at home; hospitality is the way we treat those around us, every day, at church, in public, at school…hospitality is a way of life!

What can you do as a teen girl to show hospitality to visitors in our church?

• Look around on Sunday morning, and notice those whom you have never seen before or those whom you have never really talked to yet. (You girls have a great chance to do this from the choir loft, before you come down to your seat!) During handshaking time, go to those people on purpose and greet them with a smile!

• Be in a good mood at church! If something is bothering you, ask the LORD to help you. You would be surprised at how much the attitude of a church’s teenagers affects first-time visitors. The best thing you can do when you’re having a bad day is to look for something you can do for another.
• Be kind to your brothers and sisters in Christ. Yes, I am talking about the members of LHBC, the people we see at least 3 times a week! If you can’t be loving/hospitable to your brethren, you won’t be loving/hospitable to the world.
• If a visitor looks like they’re looking for someone or something, go up to them and ask them if you can help them with anything!
• Consider the property/buildings of LHBC as part of your home; if you see trash on the floor, pick it up. If you see a plant that could use some TLC, take care of it! If you see a stack of hymnbooks out of place, put them where they belong! If each of us do little things like this, together we can make our church a visibly welcoming place.

All of these tips can be summarized in this:

Love people the way Christ would love them.

Scripture Reading for the Day:

Proverbs 23
Colossians 3

Sunday, December 22nd

We've stepped out-of-the-box, so to speak, in this series of devotions and talked some about giving ourselves gifts this year.  The presents that we bestow upon ourselves this Christmas will not only bless our own lives but enrich the lives of others, too. So far, we've covered: 

1.) Purity
2.) Forgiveness
3.) Peace
4.) Personal release from unrealistic expectations

The last gift I'd like for you to give yourself is to love people for who the Lord made them to be and not who we wish they were.  It's so easy to pick apart someone's imperfections and flawed character traits, isn't it?  We readily see what other people need to change in themselves but rarely see our own faults as quickly.  We absolutely expect more from others than we are willing to expect from ourselves.  I want people to love me, sure I do, even when I'm cross, impatient, and speak when I shouldn't.  I just chalk those things up to my humanity and expect others to understand that we all make mistakes.  When I apologize, I want them to readily forgive and not only forgive but to desire my fellowship again quickly.  But, oh, when the shoe is on the other foot!  When others are moody, lazy, and callous, it's definitely not understanding compassion that crosses my mind.  But, you see, girls, those little "character flaws" may not be imperfections at all.  Rather they could be traits given by the Lord to be channeled and directed for God's glory.  For example, when  someone is laid-back and easy-going, we might automatically assume he/she is not very self-driven.  Perhaps that slow-to-react personality might be better viewed as "patient", a trait well-pleasing to God.

This Christmas, think of that one person who gets under your skin.  Is it really that person or the fact that he/she doesn't act exactly like you think he/she should?  Love them.  Not for who they aren't but for who they are.



Scripture Reading for the Day:

Proverbs 22
Colossians 2

Saturday, December 21st

Today, girls, I will have to practice what I preach in this devotion!  You see, the gift that I'm going to encourage you to give yourself this Christmas is one that I often have to give and re-give myself! 

We've spent the last few devotions talking about what gifts we should receive from ourselves.  Even though Christmas should be a time for giving to others, in all truth, when we give these particular gifts to ourselves, we really are giving to others in the long-run.  So far, we've covered:

1.) Purity
2.) Forgiveness
3.) Peace

And, today, the gift of releasing yourself from burdensome expectations.  Many times, it's not even others' expectations, but those which we place upon ourselves.  There was a time in my life that I expected (and demanded) perfection in the cleaning of our home---especially when we were having guests over.  I'll be honest, I still like the house to be clean, even when we are not having anybody over.  But, the Lord has gently, lovingly helped me release some of that unrealistic expectation.  And, you know what, it's been so much better for me---and I'm sure for my children and husband! 

Are there areas in your life that you have placed unrealistic importance?  Are you a perfectionist missing the real joy in simple, day-to-day life because you're concerned over what you won't even remember 2 years from now? 

But Martha was cumbered about much serving,

Luke 10:40

 

Martha's sister, Mary, got it right in this passage.  She realized what was important on this day (just enjoying the fellowship with the Lord).  Martha struggled and fumed because she wanted everything to be "just so".  The funny thing is, nobody remembers what Martha served that day or whether her home was immaculate.  They just remember Mary---the one who put everything aside to listen to Jesus. 

 

 

This Christmas, ask the Lord to reveal to you the areas where you are obsessive/compulsive.  Our far-too-high expectations are hurting no one but ourselves, and life truly is such a short journey.  Let's not spend this Christmas worrying about stuff that really doesn't matter anyway.



Scripture Reading for the Day:

Proverbs 21
Colossians 1

Friday, December 20th

In remembering the season of giving, during our past two days of devotions we stepped outside the box a little and were reminded that there are gifts that we ought to give ourselves. 

1.) Purity
2.) Forgiveness

We understand that these gifts are a blessing to us now but will also be a blessing in the lives of others in the future.  Today's devotion continues the thread.

The gift I'd like to encourage each of you to give to yourselves this Christmas is enjoying a less drama-filled life. 

Have you ever seen someone who is wholly given to being the center of attention---the life of the party---the one who seems to be intertwined into every conflict?  Disagreements happen; we do not have perfect homes, perfect churches, or perfect lives.  But, if you find yourself discontented when there is no excitement going on, chances are you are feeding negatively on your own drama and the drama of others. 

The gift of being drama-less is really quite simple:

1.) Avoid commenting negatively on someone's post on Facebook.  Even if it's something   spiritual---don't Bible bash---especially using social media.
2.) If you know a question or a comment is going to gender strife, don't make it.   Don't ask it.   Even if it's true.  Even if it's what's really going on.  Just. Don't. Do. It.
3.) Don't talk about someone who's not present.
4.) Avoid going into a circle of girls (or guys) whose conversation wouldn't be acceptable if the Pastor or any other adult were standing around.  Even if you're not the one talking, you are the one associating with the one who is talking.

In allowing yourself to be drama-less, I guarantee you will be more contented.  And, isn't that a gift each of us long for---especially at Christmas?  Peace.  Give yourself the gift of peace.


Scripture Reading for the Day:

Proverbs 20
Philippians 3

Thursday, December 19th

Giving gifts at Christmastime....something we all do.  It's a way to commemorate the way the wise men brought the Savior gifts.  It's also the season to remember the greatest gift ever given---God's only begotten Son for all of mankind.  We've talked about giving gifts to others and how it's a great opportunity to share Jesus; but, yesterday we started a short series on the gifts you need to give yourself this Christmas.

Purity---in essence, it's probably the biggest reason this blog was started in the first place last year after camp.  It was the subject of yesterday's devotion because purity is a gift that, though given to yourself, will eventually bless others in your life---namely your future husband. 

Today I'd like you to consider giving yourself the gift of forgiveness.  Perhaps you've done things or said things that have hurt others, and you can't let go of the pain that your actions have caused someone else.  Maybe your forgiveness needs to be extended to someone who has wronged you in some way.  It could even be that you think you've forgiven them, but when push comes to shove, there's still a seed of bitterness in your heart.  Let's face it, girls, life is not perfect.  People are not perfect, and we are going to be hurt as we walk our paths day to day.  But, having an unforgiving spirit is spiritual suicide and emotional disaster.  Holding on to past hurts only allows the hurt to be present tense. 

There are some wounds that take time, this is true.  But, most of us are walking around holding grudges for things that are simplistic and carnal.  If we are ever to grow spiritually, we have to let go.

This Christmas, ask the Lord to search your heart for any trace of bitterness.  Give yourself the gift of forgiveness, girls.  Not for the sake of those whom you may have wronged or for those who have wronged you---but for yourself.  A gift just for you...just for Christ's sake.

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.

James 1:17

Scripture Reading for the Day:

Proverbs 19
Philippians 2

Wednesday, December 18th

Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.

II Corinthians 9:15

 

We've talked at great lengths over the past two weeks about Christmas not being about presents and what we get, but rather what we give.  Today's devotion will begin a short series on giving ourselves a gift---or rather gifts.

 

"Wait, Mrs. Kim, I thought you said we are supposed to be more concerned with others---with giving to others?"  You may be confused that today it seems like I'm encouraging you to think of yourself.  Let me explain first.  In the gifts I will be encouraging you to give to yourself, you will, in the long-run, be giving to others.

 

Girls, this Christmas give yourself the gift of purity.  We've talked about it at great lengths in our meetings and in our devotions but I can't be any clearer:  the gift of purity to yourself will be a gift to your husband in the future.  Many of you have already made the commitment to protect your physical, as well as your emotional purity, and I'm so glad that you have.  I encourage you today to renew that commitment because it is one that you will NEVER regret.  Perhaps you feel like your physical purity has already been lost and that you have nothing now to protect.  I'm so thankful, dear girls, that the Lord allows us to 'start over'.  Maybe you've made decisions already that you regret that have left you feeling bewildered and alone, but you can press the "re-do" button.  Make a commitment to yourself that, from this day forward, you will press forward toward being a girl after God's own heart.  Guard yourself from physical entrapment and emotional commitment because both of these are detrimental to a young lady who is committed to saving herself for her husband.  If you wouldn't think of being in a physical relationship with a young man, don't allow yourself to be emotionally committed either.

 

By God's grace, our first gift to ourselves this Christmas---purity. 



 

Scripture Reading for the Day:

Proverbs 18
Philippians 1

Tuesday, December 17th

Some in our society would like for this holiday season to be a nameless, winter celebration.  Giving gifts is acceptable, of course, and having a general feeling of good-will toward all is encouraged.  But, what is Christmas without Christ?  What if there never was a Baby wrapped in a manger, and what if the angels never sang welcoming the newborn King?  Could we still go about our "celebration" just as we are now?  Is Christ the center of your Christmas? 

If Jesus had never been born, would holiday festivities proceed in the same way?  For some, the celebration is not about Christ at all but instead a time for family and friends to relax and enjoy one another.  That, by the way, is not wrong; families and friends OUGHT to spend the season that way.  But, the reason for that sweet family fellowship ought to be centered around the One Whose sacrificial gift made it all possible. 

If Christ were to come to your home Christmas morning, would He feel honored by the day's festivities?  What if He were to stop by your school today and have lunch with you?  Would He be pleased that your conversation about Christmas was centered around His birth?

Merry Xmas, girls!

Hmmmm, that doesn't even look right, does it? But, that's what our actions are saying to others.  I don't believe any of us would purposely leave Christ out of Christmas---but, when we allow ourselves to be lost in the tinsel and glitter, forgetting that this celebration is all about Christ, we shout to the world, Merry Xmas, everyone! 

I pray this Christmas will be your best---the one that you lean the nearest to the Lord's heartbeat and feel the very closest to our Savior.  

Scripture Reading for the Day:

Proverbs 17
Ephesians 6

Monday, December 16th: Guest Writer, Mrs. Lois Ormsby

“And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.”

~ Luke 1:38

Mrs. Kim’s posts about Mary have been so good, so instructive, so helpful. Her posts reminded me that I once taught my college girls (when I was a dorm supervisor) about Mary’s willingness for and submission to God’s plan. God had created her to be the channel through which He would do the impossible…and she had no clue of His plan until the angel appeared and told her so! Talk about a shock! Because she was already betrothed to Joseph, this fact of her now being pregnant would have caused her and Joseph great shame in the eyes of their community. People assumed they had rushed into things, and even Joseph wondered what in the world was going on with Mary until the angel came to him, too, and calmed his fears.

Can you imagine the emotions Mary experienced from the time the angel came to her, right through the rest of her entire earthly life? She was such a young woman when God told her she was going to give birth to His Son. Although she must have been scared, frightened, and confused, she sweetly, meekly, and wisely said, “…be it unto me according to thy word.”

I honestly do not think I would have walked as honorably as Mary walked. But then, the LORD reminds me that – He asks us to do monumental things in 2013, too. True, one of us is not going to be asked to give birth to the Messiah, as that has already taken place once and for all. But, the question for us today is: are we receptive to do whatever God has each day for us? For you? For me? God honored Mary’s willingness by allowing her to give birth to the Saviour of the world. Will God be able to honor us for our willingness towards His plan, or will He be hampered by our lack of trust in Him?

Scripture Reading for the Day:

Proverbs 16
Ephesians 5

Sunday, December 15th

During this Christmas season, I want to remind you of the great love that the Lord has for you.  Just. For. You.  I heard it said many years ago that if I had been the only one on this earth who needed a Savior, God would have still sent His only begotten Son just for me.  That thought is mind-boggling!  God loves me unconditionally; He loves me sacrificially; and, He loves me individually. 

There are people all around us who truly feel like no one loves them; like no one really cares.  Christ genuinely and compassionately cares! 

Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: I John 3:1

 

Jesus loves us, girls!  When no one else is sensitive to our deepest emotional needs---when no one understands the most intimate corner of our hearts, the Lord reminds us that He does. 

 

This year, take the time to really "see" the love of God in action.  He loved us so much that He gave us the One most precious to Him.  That love is our hope, girls---our reason to live and serve. 

 

Today, don't just keep Christ's love to yourself---go out into the world and be a light for Jesus.

Scripture Reading for the Day:

Proverbs 15
Ephesians 4

Saturday, December 14th: Guest Writer, Mrs. Lois Ormsby

“Therefore the Jews of the villages, that dwelt in the unwalled towns, made the fourteenth day of the month Adar a day of gladness and feasting, and a good day, and of sending portions one to another….As the days wherein the Jews rested from their enemies, and the month which was turned unto them from sorrow to joy, and from mourning into a good day: that they should make them days of feasting and joy, and of sending portions one to another, and gifts to the poor.”

~ Esther 9:19, 22

Read through that again, and give extra note to the underlined portions --- doesn’t that sound like Christmastime, girls? Of course, these days of Purim that the Jews celebrated were about something completely different than the birth of Christ, but, the principles of giving gifts, remembering the poor, and feasting and joy were certainly the main thrust of this celebration. Isn’t it interesting that we can find the Christmas traditions we follow in the story of Esther? Today, girls, I want to encourage you to focus on the things most important, rather than on yourselves. It is easy to get caught up in “wow, she gave me the coolest gift ever!” or “I am so excited to go caroling with ‘my girls’!”; there is nothing wrong with enjoying the blessings that God has bestowed!!! I simply exhort you today to find a way to share those blessings with someone who can do nothing for you in return. What about the shoeboxes that Bentley and Mrs. Shalee are putting together? Have you purchased anything (or looked through your stash of things at home!) to contribute to the children of our community? Have you taken the time to say “Merry Christmas” to the person ringing the Salvation Army bell at the store? Have you genuinely smiled at a young child in public who evidently does not have the same comforts of home that you do? The ways to bless others are endless, girls – walk in Christ’s steps today by reaching out to someone who needs to see the love of Christ!

Scripture Reading for the Day:

Proverbs 14
Ephesians 3

Friday, December 13th

A candy maker in Indiana wanted to make a candy that would be a witness,
so he made the Christmas Candy Cane. He incorporated several symbols
for the birth, ministry, and death of Jesus Christ. He began with a stick of
pure white, hard candy: white to symbolize the Virgin Birth and the sinless
nature of Jesus, and hard to symbolize the Solid Rock, the Foundation of the
Church and firmness of the promises of God.

The candy maker made the candy in the form of a "J" to represent the precious
name of Jesus, who came to earth as our Savior. It could also represent the
staff of the Good Shepherd with which He reaches down into the ditches of the
world to lift out the fallen lambs who like all sheep have gone astray. Thinking
that the candy was somewhat plain, the candy maker stained it with red stripes.
He used three small stripes for the blood shed by Christ on the cross. So that
we could have the promise of eternal life.

Unfortunately, the candy became known as the Candy Cane. It became a
meaningless decoration seen at Christmas time. But meaning is still there for
all those who "Have eyes to see and ears to hear." We pray that this symbol will
again be used to witness to the wonder of Jesus and His great love that came
down at Christmas.

http://www.justforkidsmagazine.com/candycanelegend.html

 

 

Most people don't realize the symbolism of the candy cane; as the author of the above article stated, it has become a meaningless decoration.  But, we who know can use the candy cane as an awesome opportunity during this season to share Christ with others.  I always wear my candy cane pin upside down, and it always gives me an opportunity to share Christ when someone says, "Excuse me, ma'am, but you're candy cane has gotten turned around."  Maybe you don't want to wear yours upside down.  But, what about keeping a small supply of the tiny, individually wrapped candy canes in your purse, and handing people a candy cane and a tract together?  It's an open door to share the meaning of the candy cane---the precious Lord Jesus. 

 

Even in this sin-hardened world, we can find meaningful ways to share the love of the Savior with those all around us who are groping in the dark.

 

 

Scripture Reading for the Day:

Proverbs 13
Ephesians 2

Thursday, December 12th

Today we will do a little Bible trivia:-)  How many of you know who I am talking about when I give you the hint that this particular lady lived in the church for 84 years after her husband died?  I'll throw you out a couple of life-lines: she was in the New Testament, and she immediately recognized the tiny Lord Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah when he was but a few weeks old.  Give up??

Her name is Anna, and she is only mentioned in these two verses in all of the Bible.  However, though little is said about her, we can infer much from her life. 

And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity;

 And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.

 And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.

Luke 2:36-38

 

 

The first thing I'd like for you to note is that Anna was more dependent upon her God than upon her need to have a man in her life.  She had lived with her husband for only 7 short years.  She understood the precious relationship between a husband and wife.  However, when the Lord called her husband home, Anna contented herself with serving God wholeheartedly.  Many girls are consumed with a desire for a guy---any guy.  We can learn much from Anna in this regard.

 

Secondly, Anna knew enough prophecy that she immediately recognized God's only begotten Son.  She was so close to God that when Mary and Joseph brought the infant Jesus to the temple, Anna, obviously moved by the Lord, knew it was the Christ-child.

 

Lastly, Anna didn't keep the news that the Promised One had been born to herself.  Her example as a zealous soulwinner is seen in verse 38.  She spake of him to all that looked for redemption in Jerusalem. 

 

Anna...satisfied with the love of her Savior, sold-out to knowing her God intimately, and secure enough in her faith to share Christ with others.

 

I think I'd like to be like Anna:-)

Scripture Reading for the Day:

Proverbs 12
Ephesians 1

Wednesday, December 11th---Guest Writer, Mrs. Lois Ormsby

“Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

~ Ephesians 5:20

The last song on my sister’s and my Christmas CD is called “Thankful.” The older I get, the more I realize how important it is to maintain a grateful heart. That song says it like this: “…so caught up inside ourselves, we take when we should give…it’s up to us to be the change, and even though we all can still do more, there’s so much to be thankful for.”

I know I have written about thankfulness before, but considering how many times God repeats the command to be thankful, I think it bears repeating in our devotion-blog, as well! Christmastime is the perfect time to thank the LORD for His many blessings. Think about all the joyous things you get to see, do, taste, and experience during this holiday season – then, think about all the teen girls who are missing out on these things because they were born on the street, or they are pregnant out of wedlock and can only think of how miserable life is. Think about the many families, even in our own nation, that do not have the luxury of a beautiful Christmas tree or some form of decoration in their home. When we think of where others are, we can realize that it is only because of God’s grace that we are not there ourselves.

Make a list of things you are thankful for today, even though Thanksgiving is over and done with. Perhaps you could share your list with your family amidst the excitement of Christmas day – your carefulness to praise God will inspire others to do the same!

Scripture Reading for the Day:

Proverbs 11
Galatians 5

Tuesday, December 10th

After hearing the song "The Greatest Christmas Tree", I've never looked at another Christmas tree in the same way.  I love the lights at Christmas...the tinsel...the beautifully-wrapped gifts.  I love everything about the holiday.  But, in the quiet of the night, with only a shadowy glimmer from the flickering of the Christmas tree lights, it's not the glitz and shine that completely dominate my thoughts. 

It never really occurred to me that Christ died on a tree.  I mean, I knew the Cross wasn't made with pretty, smooth wood.  Likely it was formed by two rough, splintered beams--definitely not like the decorative ones we see now.  But, somehow, it never really "clicked" that those two beams were made from a tree---a tree created by the One Who would hang thereon.  There were no pretty string of lights; simply the naked, torn body of the Lamb of God---the Light of the World---decorated the tree at Calvary.

Tonight, when all is quiet and dark in your home, turn on your tree for just a few minutes and watch the lights.  Just as those lights bring illumination to a darkened room, Jesus, the Light of the World, brings illumination to our hearts and minds.  Thank God that the Light of the World decorated the greatest Christmas tree---the Cross of Calvary---just for you, dear girls.  Just for me.

Scripture Reading for the Day:

Proverbs 10
Galatians 4

Monday, December 9th

Today, we will cover another facet of Mary's life.  Thus far, according to Scripture, we know that Mary was a Godly, yielded young lady.  In every sense of the word, she was devoted to her God.  But, she was not without sin.  She needed a Savior (Luke 1:46).  We also know that Mary and Joseph had a normal marital relationship after Jesus was born (Mark 6:3); she was not a perpetual virgin, as many suppose.  What about the teaching that Mary ascended after she died? 

According to Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox tradition, between three and fifteen years after Christ's Ascension, in either Jerusalem or Ephesus, Mary died while surrounded by the apostles. Later when the apostles opened her tomb, they found it empty and concluded that she had been bodily assumed into Heaven.

(Religion Facts: http://www.religionfacts.com/christianity/beliefs/mary.html)

There is no Scripture indication AT ALL that Mary ascended after her death.  Notice the reference states this is taught based on "tradition".  Girls, we simply cannot build our Christian doctrine on traditions.  We must have Scriptural authority for what doctrines we adhere to and those that we reject. 

One common argument for those seeking to elevate Mary to a position of worship is that the angel spoke to Mary saying, "blessed art thou among women."  Indeed Mary was blessed; but, the word the angel used was among---not above.  A very important reference to consider is Mark 3:32-35.

And the multitude sat about him, and they said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren without seek for thee.  

And he answered them, saying, Who is my mother, or my brethren?

And he looked round about on them which sat about him, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren!

For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is my brother, and my sister, and mother.

While Jesus obviously honored his mother, He did not position her in a place of worship. 

There can be no doubt that Mary was truly a God-fearing young woman.  Her humbleness, her willingness to obey the Lord, and her yielded spirit should lead us to admire her---even strive to have those same characteristics in our own lives.  But, to idolize Mary is false worship.  Our prayer should be the same as Mary's in Luke 1:46,

And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord,

 

              And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.

Scripture Reading for the Day:

Proverbs 9
Galatians 3

Sunday, December 8th: Guest Writer, Mrs. Lois Ormsby

“I wish as a single girl I hadn't felt the need to hear that I was ‘pretty or cute’ to make me actually feel pretty or cute. Sure, it's nice hearing my fiance tell me that (love it, not gonna lie), but it's such an insecurity of mine now, that it hurts when my fiance thinks another girl is pretty. That's so wrong. God made me exactly how I should look and He made my fiance for me; and I just wish every young woman I know knew how beautiful they are. You don't need a guy or anyone else to tell you that, because the most important man that will or ever has been in your life thinks you’re gorgeous.”

…interesting way to start a devotion, isn’t it? :) One of my friends put this as her facebook status a while back, and it really caught my attention. So much so, that I wrote her and asked her if I could use her status in our blog-ministry sometime, and she said yes.

It is so, so good that this friend of mine is learning this before she is even married; that she is willing to share this thought with her own peers, encouraging them to be satisfied, content, and confident in the person that God has made them to be. What a great reminder, my dear girls, that we are indeed created in God’s image – think about that! God created everything else first, completely different than Him in every way…but then, when He made man, He said, “Let us make man in our image…” --- um, talk about a major privilege! The same is true for us ladies – I know Adam came first, but God made (and makes!) all humans in His image, male or female. God gave us His ability to think, to love, to rejoice…just to name a few! “But what about my huge nose, Miss Lois?” --- “God could have made my eyes just a little brighter!!!” These things come to our mind, because we are so concerned with how we look. But girls – does God make mistakes? Are you telling God that He messed up on you? Because, if we are discontent with how our physical appearance is, that is exactly what we are saying to God. Romans 9:20 tells us that: “Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus?” Pretty harsh stuff, but it is true. Our culture tells us we have to be skinnier, prettier, have shinier hair, wear tighter clothes…but our culture also tells us that we are to live life for ourselves and no one else. I think we all know God’s Word enough to know that these philosophies are wrong - nowhere in Scripture do we find Biblical basis for ANY of that!

Today, girls, thank God for creating you in His image; then, spend some time pondering if you really grasp the fact that you are indeed made in the image of God!

Genesis 1:27 – “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.”

Scripture Reading for the Day:

Proverbs 8
Galatians 2

Saturday, December 7th

Today we will continue what we started yesterday in our study of Mary, the mother of Jesus.

And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. Luke 1:30

 

The first doctrine we covered yesterday was that of Mary being a perpetual virgin.  Because of Mark 6:3, we understand that Mary and Joseph had other children besides Jesus, so to state that Mary was a continuing virgin would not be Scriptural.  What other doctrines are there concerning Mary that we need to consider?

 

Another teaching about Mary is that hers was an immaculate conception--two big words with very simple meaning.  When someone says that they believe in the immaculate conception, they are saying that they believe Mary was not tainted by original sin.  However, the Bible declares:

 

For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Romans 3:23

 

Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: Romans 5:12

 

All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way;

Isaiah 53:6

 

 

The Scriptures declare plainly that there was only One who was without sin---the Savior, Jesus.  Mary was a Godly young woman, there is no doubt.  She worshipped God in truth, this is not disputed.  She was an example to all women, of this I'm certain.  However, she was not sinless.  Mary was just a young woman who was doing her best to serve God---but, she was not perfect. 

 

"How can you be sure of this, Mrs. Kim?"  you may be wondering.  The word "all" means everyone.  There are no exceptions given in the above verses.  The Lord didn't say, all have sinned except Mary.  He said all, He meant all.  These references are plain, but the one verse that settled this question in my heart as a  young Christian woman many years ago was Luke 1:45-46,

 



And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord, And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.

I ask you one question:  if Mary wasn't a sinner, as some teach, then why did she need a Savior?  She plainly calls Jesus her SAVIOUR.

 

More to come about Mary tomorrow!



Scripture Reading for the Day:

Proverbs 7
Galatians 1

Friday, December 6th

And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. Luke 1:30

It seems that within the religious circles, the subject of Mary---the mother of Jesus, is one that is often much debated.  I want you to know your Bible well enough that when you hear a false teaching, you recognize it as such.  Who was Mary...what was she like...and what was she NOT like?


Our text verse explains that Mary found "favor" with God.  In simple terms, she was a Godly young lady.   The Bible doesn't give Mary's age, but Jewish tradition holds that she could have been a young teen.  Certainly, she was an example to all those around her because in Luke 1:28, the angel says, blessed art thou among women.
She was a wonderful young lady who truly followed the Lord with her whole heart. She was obedient to the Lord, submissive to her parents, and willing to be used for the glory of God.  However, there are some doctrines about Mary that the Word of God does not teach. 

To begin, Mary was a virgin when she conceived our Savior.  Although she was betrothed to Joseph, they had not been together in a marital way.  Jesus' Father was not Joseph, but instead, He was conceived of the Holy Ghost.  However, Scriptures indicate that after Jesus was born, Mary and Joseph had a normal marital relationship, with other children the fruit of their union (Mark 6:3).  Therefore, the doctrine that Mary was a perpetual (continuing) virgin is not one that is supported by the Bible.

More to come tomorrow about Mary, the one chosen by God to carry within her womb the Savior of the world.


Scripture Reading for the Day:

Proverbs 6
II Corinthians 13

Thursday, December 5th

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6

I'm so thankful today that as a Christian, I have Someone that I can go to with any problem I have, big or small, and know that He cares.  If you're like me though, many times going to the Savior with my troubles is the last thing I consider.  I've often wondered why that is!   As a child of the King, I know, according to Scripture, that He cares, that He longs to answer my prayers, and that He ultimately knows best.  Perhaps that's the biggest part of our battle: we know in our hearts that He does know best, and we're afraid of what that answer might be. 

A counselor is someone who gives advice or guidance, and I'm so thankful today that we have a God Who cares about every detail of our lives---Whose counsel is indeed the perfect direction for us.  But, do we take advantage of having our own personal Counselor?  We absolutely should be!  We listen to high school counselors, college counselors, financial counselors...all kinds of counselors!  But, the Lord Jesus' counsel is far greater and certainly has more far-reaching consequences. 

Thank you, Lord, today that You are our Counselor and that You are faithful to direct our steps when we are careful to submit ourselves to Your leadership.


Scripture Reading for the Day:

Proverbs 5
II Corinthians 12