Making a Differencewith Pastor Phil Erickson

Dec 25th, 2012 Just for Ladies – by Camille Stahl

Today’s Passage – 1 John 3 – 3 John 1; (Click on the references to listen to the audio – click here to view the text from the Blue Letter Bible website)

(Second Milers also read –Psalms 120 – 125; Proverbs 25)

Memory passage for the month of November – Luke 1:26 – 38

Listen to this morning’s Scripture song – Psalm 34:6

A Study Of The Women Of The Bible

Mary

“And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. 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. And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be. And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end. Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren. For with God nothing shall be impossible.”     (Luke 1:26-37)

There could be no better person to study about, on Christmas Day, then Mary.  She is a well known woman  of the Bible because she was the only one to bear and raise God’s only Son, Jesus.

A lowly servant girl, overwhelmed when visited by an angel and the message he brought, said she would do whatever He desires.  She would become the mother of the Messiah.  With her wondering  how this could be, the angel asured her not to be afraid and explained that the Holy Spirit would work the miracle in her.  Her child would be called the Son of God.   Mary was the willing servant.  This was complete surrender on her part.  She learned that having a great privilege often goes along with sacrifice.  Moses had experienced this before her.  She sacrificed her reputation in order to be available to God.  How could Joseph, Mary’s fiance, marry a girl who was expecting a baby by someone else?  The law stated she would be stoned to death.  But God protected them both.

“But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.”     (Mat 1:20)

God gave encouragement through Mary’s cousin, Elisabeth.  God blessed every aspect of Mary’s life, from the explanation to Joseph through the birth and all the troubles that followed.  Mary hung on the truths given, which ould guide her faith.

The next time Mary is mentioned is when she and Joseph lost Jesus when he was twelve years old.

“Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover. And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast.”     (Luke 2:41-42)

In later years, Mary became apart of Jesus’ ministry at the wedding in Cana.  But from that point on Mary is rarely mentioned.  We can only imagine the anguish she must have felt as she heard the religious leaders’ disapproval of Jesus.  She tried to serve and comfort Him while He did His Father’s will.

“Then came to him his mother and his brethren, and could not come at him for the press. And it was told him by certain which said, Thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to see thee. And he answered and said unto them, My mother and my brethren are these which hear the word of God, and do it.”     (Luke 8:19-21)

At the foot of the cross, Mary appears again.  Watching Jesus’ death wounded her like nothing else could.  She must have desired to wrap her arms around Him, as His arms were streched out onto the cross.   Her heart pounded each time the hammer strucked the nails.  In her heart she must have screamed when her Son bowed His head and gave up the Ghost.  She was the one who bore Him.  But even at the cross Jesus watched over Mary and placed her in the care in His disciple John.

Last we see Mary is in the upper room with the disciples (Acts 1:14).

Mary had no easy life.  She was not wealthy, her reputation was destroyed by the pregnancy of her first born child and she watched her inocent Son die a curl death.  But through it all she stayed faithful and trusted God and He never forsook her.

What a wonderful example Mary is to us.  Do we give ourselves completely to God?  Or do we hold back when He asks us something that seems “unreasonable”?  Mary didn’t.  Though she had her doubts, she remained true to God’s calling for her life.  Mary stood firm during pain, doubt and fear.  Let’s follow Mary’s example by being faithful and to trust Him!

Thank You

1 John 5:13

Dec 18th, 2012 Just for Ladies – by Camille Stahl

Today’s Passage – Philemon – Hebrews 4; (Click on the references to listen to the audio – click here to view the text from the Blue Letter Bible website)

(Second Milers also read –Psalms 86 – 90; Proverbs 18)

Memory passage for the month of November – Luke 1:26 – 38

Listen to this morning’s Scripture song – 1 John 4:7 & 8

A Study of the Women of the Bible

Elisabeth – A Woman of Character

“There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judaea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. And they had no child, because that Elisabeth was barren, and they both were now well stricken in years. And it came to pass, that while he executed the priest’s office before God in the order of his course, According to the custom of the priest’s office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. And the whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time of incense. And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him. But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John.” (Luke 1:5-13)

“And Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill country with haste, into a city of Juda; And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth. And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost: And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb. And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For, lo, as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in mine ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. And blessed is she that believed: for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord.” (Luke 1:39-45)

Elisabeth was a remarkable woman. She was the wife of a priest. Priest’s were only allowed to marry a woman who’s behavior was blameless. Elisabeth was such a woman. She was a descendant from the tribe of Aaron. Elisabeth and her husband Zacharias, were both righteous before God. Life was good to her as she served God, but her childlessness must have been painful to her. Every Jewish woman since Eve who conceived, thought she might be the mother of the Messiah. Yet Elisabeth suffered the humiliation of being childless. She must have question God “What’s wrong with me? Why hasn’t God answered my prayer?” Maybe she drew strength from the lives of Sarah, Rebekah and Hannah, who were also without children for a long time. But life is full of surprises, Elisabeth, who also waited many years, finally had a son who would be greatly used of God.

Elisabeth’s life could be characterized by humility and modesty. These were shown when a family member, Mary, visited her during her pregnancy. Rivalry was foreign to Elisabeth. Rather than talk about herself, she gave attention to Mary. She knew now that she was the mother of John, the preparer of the way, in the presence of the mother of the Messiah, whose way must be prepared. Elisabeth acknowledged this with great humility and modesty. She was not jealous at all. She had no problem calling Mary the mother of the Lord and “Blessed among women.”

With writing “Just For Ladies” each week, I can’t help but compare my life with the ladies I blog about. I want to share what I learned about myself from Elisabeth. I hope this will help you also.

With Christmas getting closer, I find myself very depressed and not much in the Christmas spirit. I try to stay out of stores as much as possible, but when there, I can’t help see parents getting excited about buying Christmas gifts for their children. I’m jealous and very angry that I no longer have my child, to celebrate Christmas with. Elisabeth could have reacted in the same way and said, “Why was Mary chosen to bare the Messiah, and not me……” She didn’t.  She drew all her attention to Mary and her babe.  Her eyes and heart were on the Lord and not herself.

In today’s society, we seem to look at others and want what they have.  We secretly are jealous of someone’s marriage, child or possession. You name it. Think of Potipher’s wife and what she did because she wanted Joseph. Paul asked God to take away the thorn in his flesh and His response was “My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. ”

As hard as it is to admit, I wish I could take matters into my own hands, like Potiphar’s wife, and get what I want. But I know the answer God gave Paul, is also the answer for me. How about you? Take a good hard look at your life. Ask yourself, what am I jealous about or covet?

As hard as it may be or even if we don’t like it, we should follow the example of Elisabeth.   Remember, the only way, is God’s way.

Thank You

1 John 5:13

Dec 11th, 2012 Just for Ladies – by Camille Stahl

Today’s Passages – Ephesians 4 – 6; (Click on the references to listen to the audio – click here to view the text from the Blue Letter Bible website)

(Second Milers also read –Psalms 51 – 55; Proverbs 11)

Memory passage for the month of November – Luke 1:26 – 38

Listen to this morning’s Scripture song – Isaiah 51:11

Read “7 Steps to Christmas Peace” by Pastor Paul Chappell

The Study of Women in the Bible

Jael, A Heathen Woman Used By God

There are many Bible people in the Bible that we know much about. Some people are the subject of Bible studies and may even have whole books or chapters written of them. Which ever, they all have lessons we can learn from them. There are other people mentioned in the Bible about whom we know very little. They may only be mentioned in passing or are found in one or two places in the Bible. Often these people are overlooked, yet they appear in our Bibles for a reason. II Timothy 3:16-17 tells us that everything in the Bible is from God and is for our learning.

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. (2 Timothy 3:17 – 17)

In Judges Chapter 4, is the account of the Israelite rebellion after the death of the judge, Ehud. God allowed Jabin, king of Canaan to oppress Israel through Sisera, the king’s general. After twenty years, God allowed Deborah, a prophetess and judge, to lead with Barak an attack against the mighty Sisera. Barak was hesitant to follow God’s command to attack Sisera, and agreed to go if Deborah would go with him to battle. Because of no faith, Deborah prophesied that the victory, the death of Sisera, would be given to a woman instead of Barak. This prophecy was fulfilled by the hand of a woman named Jael.

Towards the end of the battle, Sisera knew that he was defeated, and fled to save his own life. He came to the tents of Heber the Kenite. Heber and his family were related by marriage to Moses (Numbers 10:29-32). When he arrived, Jael greeted Sisera and invited him into her tent. There she offered him a cover, a drink, and a place to rest. Sisera asked Jael to stand at the door and deny his presence to any who may inquire. While Sisera slept, Jael took a tent stake and hammer and killed Sisera by pounding the stake through his temple into the ground. Jael then went out to meet Barak who was pursuing Sisera and showed him the what she did.

What made Jael a murderer? We can only guess. We do know that through her God fulfilled Deborah’s prophecy that God would hand Sisera over to a woman.

You may wonder what lessons are learned through Jael? Murder? God forbid, but lets look at the bigger picture. We can be certain, God was and still is, in control of protecting His people.

Today we are influenced more by the world then by His word. We can see by the tragedies happening today that God is sending His warnings to us to turn back to Him. The world is trying to push God, more and more, out of our lives, and is winning the battle. Through the persecution, no matter how strange or dangerous, we can be sure God has not left us or forsaken us. As we obey Him, He may even use a Jael to bring blessings into our lives. Whenever we truly trust in Him, we are safe in His hands. Do you trust Him no matter what?

God used an unknown heathen woman, to protect Israel, and you can be sure that He will protect you too!

Thank You

1 John 5:13

Dec 4th, 2012 Just for Ladies – by Camille Stahl

Today’s Passages – 1 Corinthians 15 – 16; (Click on the references to listen to the audio – click here to view the text from the Blue Letter Bible website)

(Second Milers also read –Psalms 16 – 20; Proverbs 4)

Memory passage for the month of November – Luke 1:26 – 38

Listen to this morning’s Scripture song – Psalm 92:1 – 4

Read a previous post from today’s Bible Reading Passage – “A Family Addicted to the Ministry”

Study of Women in the Bible:

Naomi – A Woman God Used in a Time of Need

“So they two went until they came to Bethlehem. And it came to pass, when they were come to Bethlehem, that all the city was moved about them, and they said, Is this Naomi? And she said unto them, Call me not Naomi, call me Mara: for the Almighty hath dealt very bitterly with me. I went out full, and the LORD hath brought me home again empty: why then call ye me Naomi, seeing the LORD hath testified against me, and the Almighty hath afflicted me?” (Ruth 1:19-21)

Naomi and Elimelech had two sons, Mahlon and Chilion. As a family, they served the Lord and traveled the land together. Because of a famine in Israel, they traveled to Moab. While there, Mahlon and Chilion married Moabite women, Opah and Ruth. Mahlon and Chilion died and left Opah and Ruth childless. With Elimelech dead, Naomai found herself in despair and wanted to change her name to Mara, which means bitter. How could three women make it in a world where women didn’t exactly have career options?

Naomi selflessly decided to send the younger women back to their own homeland, where they were more likely to find new husbands. Orpah took Naomi’s suggestion, but Ruth clung to Naomi and refused to leave. Maybe she had seen something in her husband’s faith that she didn’t want to lose. Maybe Ruth believed in God and felt bound to her mother in law. Whatever the reason, God provided a companion for Naomi and a reason to go on.

Naomi looked to Ruth as her own daughter. In kindness and gratitude to her daughter in law, who conducted herself respectfully, Naomi guided Ruth. Naomi was not selfish and wanted Ruth to marry and raise seed up to those that were gone.

“Then Naomi her mother in law said unto her, My daughter, shall I not seek rest for thee, that it may be well with thee? And now is not Boaz of our kindred, with whose maidens thou wast? Behold, he winnoweth barley to night in the threshingfloor. Wash thyself therefore, and anoint thee, and put thy raiment upon thee, and get thee down to the floor: but make not thyself known unto the man, until he shall have done eating and drinking. And it shall be, when he lieth down, that thou shalt mark the place where he shall lie, and thou shalt go in, and uncover his feet, and lay thee down; and he will tell thee what thou shalt do. And she said unto her, All that thou sayest unto me I will do.” (Ruth 3:1-5)

“So Boaz took Ruth, and she was his wife: and when he went in unto her, the LORD gave her conception, and she bare a son. And the women said unto Naomi, Blessed be the LORD, which hath not left thee this day without a kinsman, that his name may be famous in Israel. And he shall be unto thee a restorer of thy life, and a nourisher of thine old age: for thy daughter in law, which loveth thee, which is better to thee than seven sons, hath born him. And Naomi took the child, and laid it in her bosom, and became nurse unto it. And the women her neighbours gave it a name, saying, There is a son born to Naomi; and they called his name Obed: he is the father of Jesse, the father of David.” (Ruth 4:13-17)

Naomi was blessed by God for being faithful to His work. Even in her bitter state, and unable to preserve her own seed, she continued on.

There may come a time in your life, when you are unable to continue with a work God has given you. You may have to move over for the next generation to take your place. This doesn’t mean that God can’t use you, it just means He will give you something else. God can use anyone who has a willing heart. You can encourage others and pray for them. As you teach them in an area, you can help. Just pray and ask God to show you. God will never put you on a shelf if you are willing to serve. Just ask. Are you willing? In the end, God blessed Naomi and if your faithful to Him, He will bless you too!

There is much work to be done. There is plenty for all to do. We must band together and labor for the Lord. Time is getting short. No matter what situation your in, God has a blessing waiting for you. Will you be like Naomi and carry on?

A Good story-> A well-known speaker started off his seminar holding up a $20.00 bill. In the room of 200, he asked, “Who would like this $20 bill?” Hands started going up. He said, “I am going to give this $20 to one of you but first, let me do this.” He proceeded to crumple up the $20 dollar bill. He then asked, “Who still wants it…?” Still the hands were up in the air. “Well,” he replied, “What if I do this?” And he dropped it on the ground and started to grind it into the floor with his shoe. He picked it up, now crumpled and dirty. “Now, who still wants it?” Still the hands went into the air. “My friends, we have all learned a very valuable lesson. No matter what I did to the money, you still wanted it because it did not decrease in value. It was still worth $20. Many times in our lives, we are dropped, crumpled, and ground into the dirt by the decisions we make and the circumstances that come our way. We may feel as though we are worthless. But no matter what has happened or what will happen, you will never lose your value. Dirty or clean, crumpled or finely creased, you are still priceless to God.     (Unknown Author)

Thank You

1 John 5:13

Nov 20th, 2012 Just for Ladies – by Camille Stahl

Today’s Passages –Acts 14 – 16; (Click on the references to listen to the audio – click here to view the text from the Blue Letter Bible website)

(Second Milers also read –Psalms 96 – 100; Proverbs 20)

Memory passage for the month of November – Psalm 95

Listen to this morning’s Scripture song – Psalm 18:3 & 46

The Study of Women in the Bible

Tamar – A Woman Who Knew How To Get What She Wanted

The laws of the tribe to which Tamar now belonged prohibited a childless woman from remaining a widow. Onan, Er’s brother, fulfilled his duty and married her, but in appearance only. He prevented his new wife’s pregnancy which resulted in his death by God for his sin. While waiting for the youngest son, Shelah, to grow up, Tamar went home to her parents. Years later Tamar’s circumstances did not change. She knew she was not going to be blessed with a marriage to Shelah. She decided to take matter into her own hands. She took off her mourning garments and put on the garments of a harlot. We know her clothing was convincing because Judah did not recognize her.

With the upbringing Tamar had, Judah would have never suspected her to be wearing the garments of a harlot. We are partly known by what we wear. What we are on the inside, shows on the outside.

Lets look at how our world went from dressing modestly to the nudity we see today.

THE DOWN FALL OF DRESSING MODESTLY

1600 to 1900:

Women were content with the role God had given them. Keepers of the home, submitted to their husbands and had no desire to be unfeminine in any way.

Their outward appearance was with long hair, covered neck-lines, arms and legs.

This outward appearance was a reflection of their inner feeling of modesty, femininity and submission to God.

1900 to 1910:

Before the turn of the century, women generally made their own clothes.

Then the styles changed. 1907 the peek a boo shirt was introduced.

Eyelet embroidery on sleeves showed the flesh of the arms.

The length of the skirt got shorter.

Women were taking jobs and that demanded simpler clothing.

Women were now more concerned about their jobs then the home and family.

1910 to 1920:

Now women were enjoying their new roles in the work place. Birth control was the new best thing.

Smoking, drinking and short hair was the new fad for many women.

Until 1910, swimsuits of both men and women were very modest. It covered most of the arms and legs, and all of the shoulders. They were also non-clinging.

Then in Milwaukee women’s swimming team wore their revealingly swimsuits.

A cartoonist in the a newspaper depicted a woman of 1615 sitting in a chair reading her Bible and another in a suit from 1915 slouched in a chair smoking a cigarette reading a fashion magazine.

1920 to 1930:

More and more women were cutting their hair short.

The V-neck shirt and dresses above the knee were becoming popular.

Women were now in bars, smoking, drinking and dancing.

The younger generation were questioning the older.

There was a decline of the students in colleges. Going on dates, getting drunk and having sex.

Hollywood movies were copied by their exotic sex and revealing costumes. The actors became idols.

The motto was “ EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY”

1930 to 1940:

Brenda Frazier started the fad of penciled eyebrows, bright colored lipstick and strapless gowns.

Marlene Dietrich, her movies, made pant wearing popular. She also wore men’s trousers, shirts, ties and hats.

The woman shall not wear that which pertaineth unto a man, neither shall a man put on a woman’s garment: for all that do so are abomination unto the LORD thy God. (Deuteronomy 22:5)

By the end of the 30’s, halter tops and shorts were the fashion which reflected the low moral standards.  Divorce and remarriage swept the country.

MODESTLY DRESSED

(1Timothy 2:9) In like manner also, that women (1.) adorn themselves in (2.) modest (3.) apparel, with (4.) shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; (1Ti 2:10) But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.

1. kosmeō = kos-meh’-o – to put in proper order, that is, decorate (literally or figuratively); specifically to snuff (a wick): – adorn, garnish, trim.

2. kosmios = kos’-mee-os – (in its primary sense); orderly, that is, decorous: – of good behaviour, modest.

3.katastolē = kat-as-tol-ay’ – a long dress. Kata meaning down – a garment flowing down; and Stole – a long garment, covering or wrapping.

4. aidōs = ahee-doce’ – (as a negative particle) and (through the idea of downcast eyes); bashfulness, that is, (towards men), modesty or (towards God) awe: – reverence, shamefacedness.

The definition of modesty involves both one’s manner of dress and inward qualities. Biblical modesty starts within a person, but is ultimately demonstrated by their outward appearance.

What you wear is between you and God, so I’ll just ask you one question. What would Jesus think if he looked into your clothes closet?

Thank You

1 John 5:13 – 14

Nov 13th, 2012 Just For Ladies – by Camille Stahl

Today’s Passages –John 17 – 19; (Click on the references to listen to the audio – click here to view the text from the Blue Letter Bible website)

(Second Milers also read –Psalms 61 – 65; Proverbs 13)

Memory passage for the month of November – Psalm 95

Listen to this morning’s Scripture song – 1 Timothy 1:17

***

A Study of Women in the Bible

Potiphar’s Wife, A Woman Swayed By Sex

“And Joseph was brought down to Egypt; and Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh, captain of the guard, an Egyptian, bought him of the hands of the Ishmeelites, which had brought him down thither. And the LORD was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian. And his master saw that the LORD was with him, and that the LORD made all that he did to prosper in his hand. And Joseph found grace in his sight, and he served him: and he made him overseer over his house, and all that he had he put into his hand. And it came to pass from the time that he had made him overseer in his house, and over all that he had, that the LORD blessed the Egyptian’s house for Joseph’s sake; and the blessing of the LORD was upon all that he had in the house, and in the field. And he left all that he had in Joseph’s hand; and he knew not ought he had, save the bread which he did eat. And Joseph was a goodly person, and well favoured. And it came to pass after these things, that his master’s wife cast her eyes upon Joseph; and she said, Lie with me. But he refused, and said unto his master’s wife, Behold, my master wotteth not what is with me in the house, and he hath committed all that he hath to my hand; There is none greater in this house than I; neither hath he kept back any thing from me but thee, because thou art his wife: how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God? And it came to pass, as she spake to Joseph day by day, that he hearkened not unto her, to lie by her, or to be with her. And it came to pass about this time, that Joseph went into the house to do his business; and there was none of the men of the house there within. And she caught him by his garment, saying, Lie with me: and he left his garment in her hand, and fled, and got him out. And it came to pass, when she saw that he had left his garment in her hand, and was fled forth, That she called unto the men of her house, and spake unto them, saying, See, he hath brought in an Hebrew unto us to mock us; he came in unto me to lie with me, and I cried with a loud voice: And it came to pass, when he heard that I lifted up my voice and cried, that he left his garment with me, and fled, and got him out. And she laid up his garment by her, until his lord came home. And she spake unto him according to these words, saying, The Hebrew servant, which thou hast brought unto us, came in unto me to mock me: And it came to pass, as I lifted up my voice and cried, that he left his garment with me, and fled out. And it came to pass, when his master heard the words of his wife, which she spake unto him, saying, After this manner did thy servant to me; that his wrath was kindled. And Joseph’s master took him, and put him into the prison, a place where the king’s prisoners were bound: and he was there in the prison.” (Genesis 39:1-20)

Potiphar’s wife, an Egyptian, had everything a woman of that day could want. She had a husband in a position as an officer to Pharaoh. She lived in a nice home, had plenty of food, nice clothing, house servants. You name it. She was spoiled. It seems on the outside, Potiphar’s wife had everything, but inside she was empty. Maybe her husband’s job took much of his time which meant less time for her. She was looking for love, but in the wrong place. Her husband’s servant, Joseph, was a very good looking man, but his heart cleaved to his God. Potiphar’s wife enticed Joseph more then once. She wanted the satisfaction of love and attention through sex. She did not realize that true love and attention, could only be obtain through marriage.

“Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” (Genesis 2:24)

Without marriage, these feelings are lust; which consumes and degrade a person to an animal level. It will lead a person to loneliness and shame. Finally the results lead to desolation and becomes a vicious cycle of misery. Whether you are married or single, immorality is a deadly weapon straight from the pit of hell. It will destroy a person. Joseph knew this because he walked with God, and he knew it would displease Him.

“What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?” (1Corintians 6:19)

This unnamed woman warns us that sex is not a game. If married and lacking in an area, seek what you are looking for through your husband, not another man. Not married, go to God. He loves you more than you know, or seek godly council.

Some warnings to heed are these: be careful on how you conduct yourself around other men; never be alone anywhere with a man that is not your husband. Yes, even if you are older and dating, have a third party with you. Be careful about how you dress, don’t reveal too much skin. Remember, men are attracted by the eye, women by the heart. Ask yourself, “would I be embarrassed if I were standing before Jesus?” Don’t use sex as a game piece. You can’t get a guy’s love by making an offer. Don’t accept any offer, either. If he takes or makes an offer for sex, he really doesn’t love you, he’s just making or accepting the offer. THINK ABOUT IT!!

The world we live in today would read this account in the Bible and say what’s wrong with that?

“Thou shalt not commit adultery.” (Exodus 20:14)

Even after all that mess, Potiphar’s wife still was empty. Let’s not look to man’s way of satisfying our needs, but look to God instead.

Thank You

I John 5:13

Nov 6th, 2012 Just for Ladies – by Camille Stahl

Today’s Passages – John 1 – 3; (Click on the references to listen to the audio – click here to view the text from the Blue Letter Bible website)

(Second Milers also read – Psalms 26 – 30; Proverbs 6)

Memory passage for the month of November – Psalm 95

Listen to this morning’s Scripture song – Proverbs 27:15

Study of Women in the Bible

ANNA – A WOMAN WHO WASN’T DESTROYED BY A BROKEN HEART

“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)

This is all we know of Anna. It’s not much but enough to show her character and devotion to God. The prophetess Anna’s life should have been one without hope after her husband died, but instead turned her life completely over to God. She not only served in the temple, she must of lived there as the Bible says she departed not from the temple. There are many, who when they lose a love one, stop living, have self-pity or flee to isolation. She didn’t become a burden or lonely woman who everyone pitied who no one knew how to help. She didn’t flee to past memories for happiness, but served the true living God who gave her peace in her heart. I am not talking about mourning, but the peace that God gives us through the valleys.

“A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;” (Ecclesiastes 3:4)

“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.”(Psalms 23:4)

She and others were waiting for the Messiah to come. Is it any wonder that Anna walked in when Mary, Joesph and Jesus were there? God surely blessed her for her faithfulness by the sight of the One she had long hoped for. Immediately she thanked her heavenly Father and spread the news to others.

There is nothing more heart breaking then to lose someone dear to your heart, but we have a choose. Spiritually live or die. Continue to serve or quit. It’s not easy. We ask WHY?

“Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.” (2 Corinthians 1:3-4)

Let’s ask ourselves: “do we share the single-hearted devotion to God as Anna did? Are our spirits tuned to His voice that we hear and obey His call in our lives? When the Holy Spirit calls in that still small voice, is it drowned out by the cares of our broken hearts?” Let us turn to the only one who can heal our wounds and turn our sorrows into joy.

Thank You

1 John 5:13 – 14

Oct 16th, 2012 Just for Ladies – by Camille Stahl

Today’s Passage –Matthew 27 – 28 (Click on the references to listen to the audio – click here to view the text from the Blue Letter Bible website)

(Second Milers also read – Psalms 76 – 80; Proverbs 16

Scripture Memory for October – Matthew 5:1 – 16

Listen to this morning’s Scripture song – Deuteronomy 32:4

Great article by R. B. Oullette – “The Basis for Biblical Standards”

The Study of Women in the Bible

Two Babies, Two Mothers

“Then came there two women, that were harlots, unto the king, and stood before him. And the one woman said, O my lord, I and this woman dwell in one house; and I was delivered of a child with her in the house. And it came to pass the third day after that I was delivered, that this woman was delivered also: and we were together; there was no stranger with us in the house, save we two in the house. And this woman’s child died in the night; because she overlaid it. And she arose at midnight, and took my son from beside me, while thine handmaid slept, and laid it in her bosom, and laid her dead child in my bosom. And when I rose in the morning to give my child suck, behold, it was dead: but when I had considered it in the morning, behold, it was not my son, which I did bear. And the other woman said, Nay; but the living is my son, and the dead is thy son. And this said, No; but the dead is thy son, and the living is my son. Thus they spake before the king. Then said the king, The one saith, This is my son that liveth, and thy son is the dead: and the other saith, Nay; but thy son is the dead, and my son is the living. And the king said, Bring me a sword. And they brought a sword before the king. And the king said, Divide the living child in two, and give half to the one, and half to the other. Then spake the woman whose the living child was unto the king, for her bowels yearned upon her son, and she said, O my lord, give her the living child, and in no wise slay it. But the other said, Let it be neither mine nor thine, but divide it. Then the king answered and said, Give her the living child, and in no wise slay it: she is the mother thereof.” (1Kings 3:16-27)

Wow! What a story. How disconnected the woman must have been who lost her child. She had no regard for the other woman. She had no compassion towards the living child. The baby is only three days old – no big deal. As long as she doesn’t have what I want, I’ll be happy.

One of the most precious things that God gives us is a child. Some couples pray and prepare about having children, while others get surprised. Many don’t even think about the results of their actions, and then use their child as a pawn in their relationship, or worse ‘get rid of them’ before they’re even born. Women prepare for 9 months for the baby’s arrival. The room needs to be ready with furniture and decorations. A name needs to be chosen. I’m sure even the two harlots were excited and prepared for the birth of their babies. There’s usually a baby shower with lots of gifts and excitement. Finally the day comes and the baby is born. Everyone gathers together, fussing over the new arrival. The baby comes home. The sleepless nights come. The changing of the poopy dippers…..

The child is still so cute and cuddly, so all of this inconvenience is overlooked. Now we get to the terrible two’s. Some mothers realize this is the time of intense training. Other moms would like to remove themselves from the responsibility of being a mother. Some just don’t care. For the next 11 years mother and child are going in one of two directions, growing closer or growing apart. By the time they are teens you either have them or you’ve lost them.

At 6 years old “Mommy, I love you”

At 10 years old “ Mom, whatever”

At 16 years old “My Mom is so annoying”

At 18 years old “I want to leave this house”

At 25 years old “I wanna go to Mom’s house”

At 30 years old “I don’t want to lose my Mom”

At 70 years old “I would give up everything for my Mom to be here with me”

“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”

(Proverbs 22:6)

As a side note, it’s unfortunate that many pre and young teens are not taught the right way about married life and raising children. I’ve heard great preaching on the subject, but it gets me so mad that parents are neglecting that vital area of their responsibility. Just a thought!

You ask, “how can I apply this to my life? I don’t have children or grandchildren. I’m not a harlot.” Or you may think, “my children are grown, I’ve already raised them in the Lord.”  How many times have we heard a mother verbally putting their child down or neglecting them in someway? We say, “I don’t want to interfere, or it’s not my business”.

“The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children,” (Titus 2:3-4)

That “aged women” doesn’t only mean old in physical age, but also old in spiritual maturity.

About two months ago, while in Shop Rite, I saw a mother on her cell phone with her 3 children. Two of the children seem to be helping her and the third was in the cart. She looked about 5 years old. She was crying because she wanted to get out to help shop with her brother and sister. The mother backhanded the girl, called her names (cursing), and then went back to texting. I so wanted to say to her how blessed she was that she had children, to help her realize that she could lose them at any moment. I chickened out. While checking out, I notice they were at the next register. The little girl still sitting and crying because she wanted to help, with mom still verbally putting her down. When her mom was paying her bill, I said to the crying girl, “Hey I really like that necklace you have on.” She stopped crying for a brief moment and smiled until mom abruptly say it was time to go. Again, I chickened out about saying to mom how blessed she was. I was so mad at myself, I decided later that day that I would not chicken out again.

It’s just like our story. By not giving kind words (not judgmental), it’s just like being the woman whose child died. We are showing that we don’t care. We get so busy in our lives, that we overlook opportunities to do the work of the Lord.

In closing, if you are guilty in this area – I know I’ve been -pray and ask the Lord to help you. If not, pray and ask the Lord for an opportunity to be a blessing to someone else who may be struggling. You may never know how you’ve touched someone’s life.

Thank You

1 John 5:13 – 14

Oct 9th, 2012 Just for Ladies – by Camille Stahl

Today’s Passage –Matthew 12 – 13 (Click on the references to listen to the audio – click here to view the text from the Blue Letter Bible website)

(Second Milers also read – Psalms 41 – 45; Proverbs 9)

Scripture Memory for October – Matthew 5:1 – 16

Listen to this morning’s Scripture song – 1 Timothy 1:17

“Freeze” or “Get Over Here Now!”

“And after the earthquake a fire; but the LORD was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice.” (1Kings 19:12)

I would like to take a different approach to this week’s Ladies Bible Study. As I stated last week, before I start the blog, I pray and ask God to use a situation from the week before. This week’s blog is from an experience I had from selling at another yard sale.

On Friday I was with two of the ladies from church. The house we were at was on a busy road. Of course, no one did the speed limit. Anyway, one of the ladies was baby sitting an eighteen month old boy, which she does for a living. Some of the time he was sitting in his stroller, but at other times he was walking around being carefully watched. Later during the day, we played ball with him, rolling the ball on the ground, and then he’d get it and return it to us. At this point I’m thinking, ‘what will happen if he starts to walk in the wrong direction? We’ll have to get up real fast to get him’. Well don’t you know he started walking towards the house. His baby sitter said freeze, and he stopped, turned around and came right back to her. Wow!! No yelling, just one word. How many eighteen month old kids do you know who would do that? I thought of how much time and patience had to go into training him to do that. Because of the relationship he had with his baby sitter, he obeyed immediately. Just a side note, he was in no danger at anytime.

Now lets go to Saturday morning at the yard sale. Mom, Dad, and a daughter about eight years old park across the street to come to the sale. They all get out and the mom starts yelling at her daughter. The little girl stayed by her parent’s side as they crossed the road. When they all got into the yard, the little girl was attracted to the dolls and toys while the parents were looking at the things that they were interested in. Again, mom was yelling ‘get over here now, don’t touch anything……’. The girl didn’t seem to be doing anything wrong other than ignoring her mother. She was in the yard, not anywhere near the road or in any danger, but the mom continued to shout at her.

Sometime later I notice the little girl sitting on a child’s chair that was for sale, playing with some toys that were purchased for her. Mom and Dad were talking with the ladies who were running the yard sale holding the items they bought. There was no more yelling. Mom didn’t say anything about her daughter not being by her side. As a matter of fact, Mom didn’t seem concerned where her daughter was, as she had her back towards her as she was talking. What changed? When it was time to go, Mom yelled “Let go” and at first the little girl just sat there. Mom yelled again, but she still stayed seated. Then it was Dad’s turn. He politely called her name and said “its time to go”. She got up, and walked across the street with them as Mom yelled at her “get over here and cross with us”.

I know by now your asking yourself where is she going with this. Lets take the babysitter. Much time, effort and patience (long suffering) went into training the baby to listen. But the end results was obedience. It’s like our relationship with God. Got has not only given us time, effort and patience, He’s given us His life. We have the Bible, God’s instructions. It teaches us to ‘freeze’ when we need to, to get us to walk in the right direction, and stay out of danger. The Bible also tells us how much He loves us. There are many examples from the Bible of people who obeyed God. Lets take a look at a couple. Mary, the Mother of Jesus, is the first woman who comes to mind.

“And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. 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 1:26-28)

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

“And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.” (Luke 1:35)

“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)

Mary could have thought ‘what are you crazy? I have a wedding to prepare. I don’t have time for this…. and went on her way ignoring the words of the Angel. But she obeyed (freeze) and was blessed.

Next is Mary Magdalene.

“And certain women, which had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary called Magdalene, out of whom went seven devils,” (Luke 8:2)

Mary wanted to stay close to Jesus not only to protect her from the ‘Evil One’, but to change her life from darkness to light, from the power of satan to the power of God. Because of her faithfulness to the Lord , she was the first one to witness the resurrected Christ. And there are others. Do we have what it take to obey Him like a little child?

On the other side, we have someone who wants the same results, but does not want to put the time and effort into the training. That’s the way Satan treats us. He wants us to ‘get over here now’ into a danger zone, away from God’s will. If we don’t listen, he’ll continue to hound us through trials and tribulations (get over here now!). When he has us, he’ll let us play in our sin until it’s time to move away from God again. An example of this is Eve: she ate of the fruit that God said not to eat (get over here now!). Job’s wife said, ‘Curse God and die’. Herodias disobeyed through revenge and murder. Sapphira also listened to Satan, which resulted in death, (get over here now!). There are many other examples.

So the question for today is will you ‘freeze’? The Bible instructions us when to freeze, and which way to turn. Or, will you turn a deaf ear (get over here now!). Will you join me in prayerfully resisting the devil, and walk side by side,day by day with Christ. He loves you and is waiting to take your hand.

Thank You

(1John 5:11-13)