JUST FOR LADIES – BY CAMILLE STAHL
Today’s Reading – Ezra 3 – 7 (Click on the references to listen to the audio – Click here to view the passage from Blue Letter Bible)
(Second Milers Read – Romans 13 – 16; Psalms 131 – 135; Proverbs 28)
Scripture Memorization for May – Romans 10
Listen to this morning’s Scripture song – 1 Timothy 1:17
Read a great article by Pastor Cary Schmidt– “Encouragement for Spiritual Leaders“
Read the “0528 Evening and Morning” devotion for today, by the late Charles Haddon Spurgeon
A Study Of Women In The Bible
Miriam, A Strong Leader Who Over-stepped Her Boundaries.
“For the horse of Pharaoh went in with his chariots and with his horsemen into the sea, and the LORD brought again the waters of the sea upon them; but the children of Israel went on dry land in the midst of the sea. And Miriam the prophetess, the sister of Aaron, took a timbrel in her hand; and all the women went out after her with timbrels and with dances. And Miriam answered them, Sing ye to the LORD, for he hath triumphed gloriously; the horse and his rider hath he thrown into the sea.” (Exodus 15:19-21)
Miriam’s work for the Lord started at an early age. Her mother depended and trusted her to watch over the basket prepared for baby Moses that was put on the water. It took courage to approach the Princess and ask if she could find someone to nurse the baby. It was because of her wisdom from Almighty God, that she brought the Princess together with the baby’s mother. Miriam was brought up as a slave who served the Living God.
As an adult, Miriam continued with her godly responsibilities. She was in leadership, under Moses, with her brother Aaron. She was unmarried, the first spokeswoman for God, and very dedicated to her work. Her responsibilities must have been unbelievable when the children of Israel left Egypt. It’s hard enough when your moving your own family, but what a task trying to assist in the moving of millions! Miriam must have encouraged the people as they walked between the walls of water. She led the women in song and dance when they reached the other side. She was a born leader, BUT…
“And Miriam and Aaron spake against Moses because of the Ethiopian woman whom he had married: for he had married an Ethiopian woman. And they said, Hath the LORD indeed spoken only by Moses? hath he not spoken also by us? And the LORD heard it.” (Numbers 12:1-2)
“And the anger of the LORD was kindled against them; and he departed. And the cloud departed from off the tabernacle; and, behold, Miriam became leprous, white as snow: and Aaron looked upon Miriam, and, behold, she was leprous.” (Numbers 12:9-10)
“And Miriam was shut out from the camp seven days: and the people journeyed not till Miriam was brought in again.” (Numbers 12:15)
…Miriam over-stepped her boundaries. She put herself on the same level as Moses. Aaron and Miriam tried to usurp Moses’ authority. She was given great authority by God, but pride and jealousy stepped in. Through God’s anger, Miriam became a leper. God took her from a leader of women singing and praising God, to crying out, “Unclean, unclean”. The entire nation stopped their journey as Miriam was put out of the camp for 7 days. The Bible does not say if Miriam repented or if she was returned to her leadership position, however the Bible does say in Numbers 20:1 that she died before the children of Israel entered into the promise land.
Miriam stepped out of her God-given boundaries, and it’s very easy to step out of ours. God has given us all positions. It would do us well to remember to stay within our positions. A good leader is a better follower. In the work of God, there will always be someone in authority over you, just as there will always be some under you. If we all stay within our God-given positions, we can accomplish God’s work more efficiently. Remember, the most important job God has given all of us is to win souls. “The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.” (Proverbs 11:30)
“Do you see all the people sinking down. Don’t you care are you going to let them drown? How can you be so num, not to care if they come? You close your eyes and pretend the job’s done. Bless me Lord, you know it’s all I ever hear. No one aches, no one hurts, no one even sheds one tear, but He cries, He weeps, He bleeds, and He cares for your needs, and you just lay back and keep soaking it in. Can’t you see it’s such sin? Cause He brings people to your door, and you turn them away as you smile and say, God bless you, be in peace, and all Heaven just weeps….. Cause Jesus came to your door…. you’ve left Him out in the streets………….. Open up and give yourself away. You see the need, you hear the cries, so how can you delay? God’s calling, and your the one… but like Jonah you run. He’s told you to speak, but you keep holding it in. Can’t you see it’s such sin? The world is sleeping in the dark that the church just can’t fight ’cause it’s asleep in the light. How can you be so DEAD, when you’ve been so well fed? Jesus rose from the dead, and you can’t even get out of bed…” (Song: Asleep in the Light by Keith Green)
Thank You
1 John 5:13 – 14
Posted in Devotions, Just for Ladies by Phil Erickson with no comments yet.
JUST FOR LADIES – BY CAMILLE STAHL
Today’s Reading – 2 Chronicles 18 – 20 (Click on the references to listen to the audio – Click here to view the passage from Blue Letter Bible)
(Second Milers Read – Acts 16 – 18; Psalms 101 – 105; Proverbs 21)
Scripture Memorization for May – Romans 10
Listen to this morning’s Scripture song – Proverbs 27:15
Read a great article by Pastor Paul Chappell– “Launch Out“
Read the “0521 Evening and Morning” devotion for today, by the late Charles Haddon Spurgeon
Read a previous post from this passage – “Keep Your Eyes on the Lord“
A Bible Study Of Women In The Bible
Don’t Judge A Book By It’s Cover
“As a jewel of gold in a swine’s snout, so is a fair woman which is without discretion.” (Proverbs 11:22)
Gold. It is a valuable metal that we treasure. It will still buy things when the dollar fails. We melt it into many shapes and use it to adorn our bodies. Much gold was used in the Tabernacle, and the entire Ark of God was overlaid with it. It seems unlikely that someone would take such a precious metal and put it on a pig’s nose. Pigs are dirty. They roll in the mud all day. Their noses are in the slop the farmers feed them. At times there is even pig snot running out. I know, not a pretty sight. But under all that mess is a fine jewel waiting to be cleaned up and treasured.
What is discretion? The ability or power to decide responsibly; the freedom or authority to make judgments and to act as one sees fit; the quality of being discreet; prudence; tactfulness; the trait of utilizing knowledge and experience with common sense and insight.
It sounds like a good quality to have, but remember this woman doesn’t have this quality. Her beauty makes her seem as if she’s full of grace. But she is a foolish woman and is compared to a swine wallowing in the mire of filthy lusts. In other words, you can’t judge a person on how they look.
We look in the mirror every morning to make sure our outside appearance is just right. We check our hair. We brush our teeth and make sure there is no leftover spinach on them. We spend much money on make-up so our faces look just right. We make sure our clothing matches and fits right. If we walk by a mirror during the day or visit the ladies room we check ourselves to make sure all is still well. Well, how much more do we need to check the inside of us so we don’t find ourselves in the nose of a pig. The Bible is a perfect mirror to check how we’re doing on the inside. There is an answer to any situation or problem we face each day in the Word of God. There are many lessons to learn about our attitudes, and regarding how we should conduct ourselves.
Read and study your Bible everyday. Ask God to show you something from His Word. Take a hard look at yourself and change those things that God is impressing on you. Use your good common sense. Get out of the pig’s nose and let God shine you up.
Thank You
1 John 5:13
Posted in Just for Ladies by Phil Erickson with 1 comment.
JUST FOR LADIES – BY CAMILLE STAHL
Today’s Reading – 1 Chronicles 23 – 25 (Click on the references to listen to the audio – Click here to view the passage from Blue Letter Bible)
(Second Milers Read – John 19 – 20; Psalms 66 – 70; Proverbs 14)
Scripture Memorization for May – Romans 10
Listen to this morning’s Scripture song – Psalm 61:1 – 3
Read a great article by Pastor Cary Schmidt – “Unbelieving Believers“
Read the “0514 Evening and Morning” devotion for today, by the late Charles Haddon Spurgeon
Read a previous post from this passage – “The Hope for the Future“
A Study Of Women In The Bible
Dorcas, A Woman Who Used Her Talent For God.
“Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did.” (Acts 9:36)
” Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them.” (Act 9:39)
Dorcas was just a regular woman, who had a talent for making clothing. We know she was a Godly lady because she was the only woman who was called a disciple, a follower of Jesus. Dorcas not only wanted to follow Christ, she also wanted to serve him. So, she did that which came naturally to her, she made clothing and gave it to the poor. Dorcas knew what made her Lord happy, and that was to take care of this group of people. She served the Lord with all of her heart by serving people.
With this in mind, I would like to take time to talk about “Warm Weather Dressing.” It alway amazes me that the hotter the weather becomes, the less clothing we wear. As Christian ladies, we should always dress modestly. We are responsible, not only for dressing ourselves in modest clothing, but also for dressing our children. Hot weather does not give us an open invation to expose all that we have.
The following is a look at the downfall of women’s clothing in America. WARNING: You may not like what your about to read!
THE DOWNFALL OF DRESSING MODESTLY
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.
They wore their hair long, 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 now taking jobs, and that demanded simpler clothing.
Many women were now more concerned about their jobs then the home and family.
1910 to 1920:
Now woman were enjoying their new roles in the work place. Birth control was the new best thing.
Smoking, drinking and shorter hair was the new fad for many woman.
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, a woman’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 woman were cutting their hair short.
The V-neck shirt and dresses above the knee were becoming popular.
Women were now in bars, alongside of the men, smoking, drinking, and dancing.
The younger generation were questioning the older.
There was a moral decline on the college campuses. College became a place to party, get drunk, and have sex.
Young people were imitating what they saw in the Hollywood movies. 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, in her movies, made pants 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.
When we go to the public restrooms, what door do we go in? The figure wearing the dress!
Examples Of Modesty
Sitting:
Always sit with legs together – Cross feet
Dresses should cover you knees completely or the dress is too short
Slits in dress should be no more than 1 in. If it is, pin it or don’t buy it
Bust Line:
A top should not emphasize your bust
Neck Line:
Opening in front should be no lower than two finger below the collar bone
Bra straps should not show on your shoulders
What about swimsuits?
I have not yet found a swimsuit that can be considered modest by Scriptural standards. Many of the so-called modest swimsuits today barely cover what our undergarments cover. Surely if we were caught by brothers or any man besides our husband in our undergarments we would shriek with utter mortification and run for the nearest hiding place. Do we feel the same about being seen by men in our swimsuits? Is there a difference? It may be that any bathing suit you can buy today shows portions of a woman’s body that only her husband should be allowed to see. I don’t think Dorcas sewed any, do you?
Would you be embarrassed if you were standing before Jesus?
Around the late 1960’s and early 1970’s the unisex look was introduced. Through the last 30 years the unisex look has not only become fashionable but also acceptable.
Can pants, shorts or jeans which show a woman’s form, and hips (and even the outline of her undergarments) be considered modest apparel? That is a question for each sister to consider.
Whatever we choose to wear, we must make our choices with the intention of upholding and establishing the clearest possible distinction between men and women that God set in order from creation.
A Woman’s Most Important Clothing: Righteousness and Humility
Whose adorning, let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands: (1 Peter 3:3)
A sister’s dress should be an expression of a meek and quiet spirit, intended more to please the sight of God than the sight of men.
Some do not apply the scriptures to this “modern day.” But God’s view of modesty is not variable. It does not depend on the cultures that men create. It does not depend on the weather. We read of no special circumstances in the Scriptures which set aside this teaching and gives liberty for women to display their nakedness. Therefore, we must assume that even in this evil and perverse generation, God still expects us to maintain His standards of modesty.
Posted in Just for Ladies by Phil Erickson with no comments yet.
JUST FOR LADIES – BY CAMILLE STAHL
Today’s Reading – 1 Chronicles 6 (Click on the references to listen to the audio – Click here to view the passage from Blue Letter Bible)
(Second Milers Read – John 5 – 6; Psalms 31 – 35; Proverbs 7)
Scripture Memorization for May – Romans 10
Listen to this morning’s Scripture song – Psalm 25
Read a great article by Pastor Pastor Cary Schmidt – “Stop Worrying“
Read the “0507 Evening and Morning” devotion for today, by the late Charles Haddon Spurgeon
Read a previous post from this passage – “A Large Family of Ministers“
A Study Of Women In The Bible
The Proverbs 31 Woman
“Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.” (Proverbs 31:28)
I know, I know. Your saying to yourself, “Oh no! Not the Proverbs 31 woman!! How can we live up to her standards? She’s perfect.” Well lets take a look at her verse by verse and I think you’ll see that it’s not as hard as you think.
I want to start with verse 28. “Her children arise up and call her blessed, her husband also..” This verse is the goal. This is where we want to be. With Mother’s Day coming this Sunday, we, as mothers, want to strive to do our best in raising our children. We want to keep that close relationship with our children throughout our lives. If we are not moms yet, this is a good place to start.
“Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil. She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.” (Proverbs 31:10-12)
Here we see that a virtuous woman is priceless. She is compared to a fine jewel. When owning something of great value, it’s greatly taken care of. In return, it always shines and looks it’s best. Remember, one person’s best is not anothers. Her husband trusts her. She doesn’t waste his money and takes care of the things they have. “She will do him good”. She doen’t speak evil of him but builds him up. She cares for him as an example to her daughters or other young ladies. She is proud of what he does, even if it’s not up to her standards. There you go. Three verses down. Not hard. Did you pass?
“She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands. She is like the merchants’ ships; she bringeth her food from afar.” (Proverbs 31:13-14)
In Bible times, most women made clothing for their family. There were no JC Pennys or Walmarts. But even if you don’t make your clothing, (and I don’t know many who do) we still are thrifty in what we do buy. I know many women: Pastors’ wives, Missionary wives, myself and others, who go to Good Will and other second hand clothing stores. Many women exchange clothing, especially for the children. And how many of us will go to more than one food store to save on our food bill. And what about COUPONS!! How ya doin? Two more verses gone. Not as bad as you thought, right?
“She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.” (Proverbs 31:15)
Now don’t throw tomatoes yet. This woman got up early and made her family breakfast and lunch. We get too busy in life that we find ourselves getting to bed late. Because of this, we are running out the door with coffee in hand and a piece of toast in our mouth. Our kids are rushing around and grab whatever, if anything. Life is like a zoo in the morning. God never intended us to be so busy that we negelect our family. If you have a tomato in your hand about now, why not examine your busy life, and get rid of things that are keeping you too busy. I do understand about women having to work. I was a single and a married working mom and I know about the mistakes of being too busy for my family. Are you still with me? Put your tomato back in the refrigerator and have it with your lunch.
“She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.” (Proverbs 31:16)
The Proverbs 31 woman, bought a home and took care of it. Buying the land and planting on it, made it useable and more valuable. Even if you don’t “own” it, you’re still paying for it. You thought about the cost and made sure you could afford it. She fixes and takes care of it herself, so not to go into debt. Not bad. This one was easy.
“She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.” (Proverbs 31:17)
Though women are known as the weaker vessel, she is made strong by wisdom and grace, and the fear of God. A woman should control her own spirit and know how to manage other people. She should also be a help meet for her husband. We too can get wisdom by the reading and obeying God’s word. Do you read your Bible? We manage our family members everyday. As far as controlling our spirit, that is where the wisdom of God comes in. Life can get out of hand. Something can go wrong, we get caught up in the moment and we react the wrong way. Keeping our Christian spirit can only come when we stop, think and then react. The more we learn recognize temptations of Satan, the easier it is to keep ourselves in control.
Still doing ok?
“She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night. She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff. She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy. She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet. She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.” (Proverbs 31:18-22)
These five verses have a lot to do with taking care of her family. She makes sure the things she buys are good. It doesn’t matter if your rich or not. If you buy the items you and your family needs from the best of stores or from the flea market, we all do our best. She goes to bed after the family. She makes sure all is well before she lays her head down at night. Easy. We all check on the kids. We make sure the “night lights” are on before we go to bed. I don’t think I know anyone who wouldn’t help someone in a time of need. And like the ant, we prepare for winter. We make sure everyone has their hats and gloves. We take out the heavy blanks for those cold nights. See, we really aren’t much different then the Proverbs woman are we?
“Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.” (Proverbs 31:23)
“She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.” (Proverbs 31:26)
I like this verse. She speaks kindness. Again I’ll say, Satan wants to keep our lives in spinning to the point that we can’t tell which side is up. When this happens we, tend to make mistakes and unkind words can find their way out of our mouths. Beware of satan. He is like a lion wanting to destroy us. Our tounges are like a knife. They can cut and destroy a person. OK. Hang in there. One more verse to go and you’ve made it. You can do it!
“Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.” (Proverbs 31:30)
This verse sums it all up. Fear the Lord. You can’t go wrong. No matter what anyone say or thinks, fear the Lord. Follow Him.
Well I know you all passed the test. You all got an A. Now we know we’re all Proverbs 31 Women. A daugther of the King of Kings.
Thank You, And I Pray You All Have A Blessed Mother’s Day. Enjoy Your Family.
1 John 5:13
Posted in Just for Ladies by Phil Erickson with 4 comments.
JUST FOR LADIES – BY CAMILLE STAHL
BONDWOMAN BORN AFTER THE FLESH OR FREE WOMAN BORN AFTER THE SPIRIT?
Today’s Passage – 2 Kings 13 – 15 (Click on the references to listen to the audio – Click here to view the passage from Blue Letter Bible)
(Second Milers Read – Luke 15 – 16; Proverbs 30 – 31; Psalm 146 – 150)
Scripture Memorization for March – John 1:1 – 18
Listen to this morning’s Scripture song – 1 John 3:1
Read a great article by Pastor Pastor Paul Chappell – “How to Develop Friendships with Co-Laborers in the Ministry“
Read the “0430 Evening and Morning” devotion for today, by the late Charles Haddon Spurgeon
Read a previous post from today’s Bible reading passage – “He Gave Them A Saviour“
A Study Of Women In The Bible
“For it is written, that Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondmaid, the other by a freewoman. But he who was of the bondwoman was born after the flesh; but he of the freewoman was by promise.” (Galatians 4:22-23)
“Nevertheless what saith the scripture? Cast out the bondwoman and her son: for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the freewoman. So then, brethren, we are not children of the bondwoman, but of the free.” (Galatians 4:31-31)
When looking at being free or bound, we can compare it to being saved or lost. We can also look at it as being saved, but following in the steps of a free or bound women. In today’s blog, we’re going to look at it both ways, so let’s recap some of the past blogs.
Anna: Freewoman and stayed free. She stayed devoted to God even when life turned wrong.
Athaliah: Bondwoman and stayed bond. She encouraged her son Ahaziah, to do wrong and later wanted to kill her grandchildren.
Delilah: Bondwoman and stayed bond. She deliberately betrayed her husband.
Miriam: Freewoman turned bondwoman. She was greatly used of God but then overstepped her boundaries by trying to usurp her authority over Moses.
Sarah: Freewoman turned bondwoman. She walked ahead of God and made the wrong decision. She also lied for her husband, laughed at God heartless to her husband’s other son, Isaac.
Rahab: Bondwoman turned free. She was a woman with a questionable profession to having her name mentioned in Hebrews 11 “Heroes of the Faith”.
Ruth: Bondwoman turned free. She was a Moabite born out of incest who later followed the God of Naomi.
When taking a closer look at the women in the Bible, we can only come to the conclusion, that being, or following, the steps of a free woman is always a better choice. It’s the one that pleases the Lord. Which are you? If you haven’t accepted the Lord Jesus as your Saviour, you are a bondwoman. Or you could be a bondwoman because your not wholly following Him. Both make you in bondage to sin. Satan wants us in bondage and he wants us to stay there. I urge you bondwoman, accept Jesus as your Saviour. He will free you from sin. He paid the price. Only through Jesus Christ can you be free. Our church’s website will guide you in the way you need to go to be truly free. If your saved and struggling with something, seek the Lord. He has the answer. Turn from going in the wrong direction. It will only turn to destruction, not only in your life, but also in the life of others. Confess your wrong and seek Godly counsel. God will forgive you.
“As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.” (Psalms 103:12)
And for you ladies who are free and remaining free, beware. Satan is watching and waiting for you. Put on your armour everyday.
Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” (Ephesians 6:11)
“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:” (1Peter 5:8)
Thank You
1 John 5:13
Posted in Just for Ladies by Phil Erickson with no comments yet.
Just for Ladies – by Camille Stahl
Today’s Passage – 1 Kings 18 – 19 (Click on the references to listen to the audio – Click here to view the passage from Blue Letter Bible)
(Second Milers also read – Luke 1 – 2; Proverbs 23; Psalms 111 – 115
Scripture Memorization for March – John 1:1 – 18
Listen to this morning’s Scripture song – Proverbs 27:15
Read a great article by Pastor Cary Schmidt – “What If“
Read the “0423 Evening and Morning” devotion for today, by the late Charles Haddon Spurgeon
Read a post from this morning’s Bible reading passage – “Don’t Shoot the Messenger“
The Study of Women in the Bible
This week: Sarah
Good morning and welcome once again to Women in the Bible. This week we will be looking at Sarah and how she walked ahead of God.
“Now the LORD had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will shew thee: And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.” (Genesis 12:1 – 3)
“After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward. And Abram said, Lord GOD, what wilt thou give me, seeing I go childless, and the steward of my house is this Eliezer of Damascus? And Abram said, Behold, to me thou hast given no seed: and, lo, one born in my house is mine heir. And, behold, the word of the LORD came unto him, saying, This shall not be thine heir; but he that shall come forth out of thine own bowels shall be thine heir. And he brought him forth abroad, and said, Look now toward heaven, and tell the stars, if thou be able to number them: and he said unto him, So shall thy seed be.” (Genesis 15:1 – 5)
“Now Sarai Abram’s wife bare him no children: and she had an handmaid, an Egyptian, whose name was Hagar. And Sarai said unto Abram, Behold now, the LORD hath restrained me from bearing: I pray thee, go in unto my maid; it may be that I may obtain children by her. And Abram hearkened to the voice of Sarai. And Sarai Abram’s wife took Hagar her maid the Egyptian, after Abram had dwelt ten years in the land of Canaan, and gave her to her husband Abram to be his wife. And he went in unto Hagar, and she conceived:” (Genesis 16:1 – 4)
Abraham and Sarah lived a secure life in Ur, with friends and family. One day God appeared to Abraham and told him to leave his land and go to a place, which He would point out to him. Most women would find it hard to leave their home to face an unknown future, but Sarah got on board and stood behind her husband, obeyed God and went willingly. After moving over 600 miles away, God told Abraham to move again. All the while Sarah was waiting for the promise of God to bear a child.
Abraham and Sarah continued moving around, and because of a famine, they decided to move to Egypt. For the first time, Sarah saw Abraham not take counsel from God. She must have really questioned her husband when he asked her to tell the people that she was his sister. Here was a man who had walked beside God, now running ahead. Sarah honored her husband, and God honored Sarah by protecting her in Egypt. Sarah knew from experience that to live a life of faith she would need to be patient. Faith and patience go together. You can’t buy them, you have to experience them; but Sarah was growing older and now past her days of child bearing. She suggested to Abraham that he take Hagar as his concubine. Although these things happened frequently back then, it was still wrong, because of her lack of faith.
A year after God appeared to them again, Sarah conceived and bore a child. Finally, receiving the promise from God.
Today we have two nations from the loins of Abraham: the Arabs, the descendants of Ishmael; and the Jews, the descendants of Isaac. They are still at war with each other, all because Sarah ran ahead of God.
We too must follow by God’s side; never running ahead or dragging behind. We should follow closely by God’s side because His timing is the perfect timing. Moving only when God moves us, and waiting when He is working. Psalm 119:105 says, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” If you ever walked in the woods at night with a flashlight, you know you must walk next to the one holding the light. Too far behind or ahead, and you are in darkness. You might go down the wrong path, stumble, or fall. So let’s take the Saviour’s hand and walk together by His side.
In conclusion, I do not want to leave Sarah on a sour note. Sarah’s life had experienced many sacrifices. Her faith grew after the birth of her son, Isaac. She experienced hardships and disappointments, all without complaint. She was flexible with the changes that were made in her life. By her obedience to Abraham, she allowed him to obey God. In Hebrews 11, she was honored for the faith she had, without having her failures pointed out.
Have patience, have patience, Don’t be in such a hurry.
Have patience, have patience, You’ll only start to worry.
Remember, Remember, that God is patient too!
Just think of all the times that others had to wait for you!
Thank You
1 John 5:13
Posted in Just for Ladies by Phil Erickson with 3 comments.
JUST FOR LADIES – BY CAMILLE STAHL
Today’s Passage – 1 Kings 1 – 2 (Click on the references to listen to the audio – Click here to view the passage from Blue Letter Bible)
(Second Milers also read – Mark 3 – 4 ; Proverbs 16; Psalms 76 – 80
Scripture Memorization for March – John 1:1 – 18
Listen to this morning’s Scripture song – Psalm 61:1 – 3
Read a great article by Pastor Cary Schmidt – “The Dangers of Depletion“
Read the “0416 Evening and Morning” devotion for today, by the late Charles Haddon Spurgeon.
A Study of Women in the Bible
Michal, A Woman Whose Marriage Lacked Unity
“And Saul sought to smite David even to the wall with the javelin; but he slipped away out of Saul’s presence, and he smote the javelin into the wall: and David fled, and escaped that night. Saul also sent messengers unto David’s house, to watch him, and to slay him in the morning: and Michal David’s wife told him, saying, If thou save not thy life to night, to morrow thou shalt be slain. So Michal let David down through a window: and he went, and fled, and escaped. And Michal took an image, and laid it in the bed, and put a pillow of goats’ hair for his bolster, and covered it with a cloth. And when Saul sent messengers to take David, she said, He is sick. And Saul sent the messengers again to see David, saying, Bring him up to me in the bed, that I may slay him. And when the messengers were come in, behold, there was an image in the bed, with a pillow of goats’ hair for his bolster. And Saul said unto Michal, Why hast thou deceived me so, and sent away mine enemy, that he is escaped? And Michal answered Saul, He said unto me, Let me go; why should I kill thee?” (1Samuel 19:10-17)
“And as the ark of the LORD came into the city of David, Michal Saul’s daughter looked through a window, and saw king David leaping and dancing before the LORD; and she despised him in her heart. And they brought in the ark of the LORD, and set it in his place, in the midst of the tabernacle that David had pitched for it: and David offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before the LORD. And as soon as David had made an end of offering burnt offerings and peace offerings, he blessed the people in the name of the LORD of hosts. And he dealt among all the people, even among the whole multitude of Israel, as well to the women as men, to every one a cake of bread, and a good piece of flesh, and a flagon of wine. So all the people departed every one to his house. Then David returned to bless his household. And Michal the daughter of Saul came out to meet David, and said, How glorious was the king of Israel to day, who uncovered himself to day in the eyes of the handmaids of his servants, as one of the vain fellows shamelessly uncovereth himself! And David said unto Michal, It was before the LORD, which chose me before thy father, and before all his house, to appoint me ruler over the people of the LORD, over Israel: therefore will I play before the LORD. And I will yet be more vile than thus, and will be base in mine own sight: and of the maidservants which thou hast spoken of, of them shall I be had in honour. Therefore Michal the daughter of Saul had no child unto the day of her death.” (2Samuel 6:16-23)
Michal was the youngest daughter of King Saul. Saul had arranged David’s marriage to Michal hoping that it would make him unhappy and cause his death. (See 1Samuel 18:21). But Michal loved David. David was handsome, courageous, a brave warrior, popular with the people, and had a relationship with God.
Saul never changed his mind about David, and hated him more. He tried to get rid of him through war. When that failed, Saul plotted to kill David in his own home. However, Michal heard of it and warned David. She lied to her father by saying David was sick and placed a large idol in David’s bed. Let’s take a closer look at that. Why was there an idol in their home? David loved the true God. Their marriage was doomed from the start. They were unequally yoked.
“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?” (2Corinthians 6:14)
Later, we see Jerusalem rejoicing together in receiving the ark of the Lord, in the place David had appointed it to be. The priests and Levites had prepared themselves spiritually for their tasks. Leader of the people, with the singers and musicians ready themselves for the joyous occasion, David was overjoyed. He too prepared himself for this great event. He put aside his royal robe and girded himself with linen breeches that God had ordered for the priests to wear. (See Exodus 28:42). David then expressed his overwhelming joy and thankfulness in a religious dance. Michal did not share the religious convictions of her husband. Like her father, Michal was not concerned about the ark of God. She had no desire to play a tambourine and lead the women in song as Miriam once did. Her words were of sarcasm to David. She was putting her husband down.
Michal had a sad life. Her father and husband used her to gain their own ends. Obviously she wasn’t ‘Miss Innocent’. But we can’t blame her for disliking her treatment as a pawn in the political game. It just makes me wonder why she didn’t turn to the one true God. Things would have turned out much better for her than they did.
Lack of spiritual unity in a marriage at first might seem to be only a small crack, but it will quickly widen into a gulf that cannot be bridged. A family must be started with a solid foundation, Jesus Christ. You would never build a house without a foundation, because it would never pass through a storm. The same is true with marriage. Single ladies, look for a mate who is on the same page as you are, spiritually. Married ladies, be true to your husband. No matter if he is saved or not, be careful of your treatment to him. Remember, the husband you put down may meet another woman willing to build him up. Why take a chance. Always encourage him to do right in the Lord. God takes marriage very seriously. It pictures His relationship with us, and cannot be put on and taken off at will.
The marriage of David and Michal stands as a warning in history. If a husband and wife are not one in God, sharing spiritual unity, their marriage will fold under life’s pressures.
Thank You
1 John 5:13
Posted in Just for Ladies by Phil Erickson with 1 comment.
Just for Ladies – by Camille Stahl
Today’s Passage – 2 Samuel 4 – 7 (Click on the references to listen to the audio – Click here to view the passage from Blue Letter Bible)
(Second Milers also read – Matthew 17 – 18; Proverbs 9; Psalms 41 – 45
Scripture Memorization for March – John 1:1 – 18
Listen to this morning’s Scripture song – Psalm 34
Read the “0409 Evening and Morning” devotion for today, by the late Charles Haddon Spurgeon.
The Study of Women in the Bible
This Week – The Widow Of Zarephath, Who Gave Her All.
“And the word of the LORD came unto him, saying, Arise, get thee to Zarephath, which belongeth Zidon, and dwell there: behold, I have commanded a widow woman there to sustain thee. So he arose and went to Zarephath. And when he came to the gate of the city, behold, the widow woman was there gathering of sticks: and he called to her, and said, Fetch me, I pray thee, a little water in a vessel, that I may drink. And as she was going to fetch it, he called to her, and said, Bring me, I pray thee, a morsel of bread in thine hand. And she said, As the LORD thy God liveth, I have not a cake, but an handful of meal in a barrel, and a little oil in a cruse: and, behold, I am gathering two sticks, that I may go in and dress it for me and my son, that we may eat it, and die. And Elijah said unto her, Fear not; go and do as thou hast said: but make me thereof a little cake first, and bring it unto me, and after make for thee and for thy son. For thus saith the LORD God of Israel, The barrel of meal shall not waste, neither shall the cruse of oil fail, until the day that the LORD sendeth rain upon the earth. And she went and did according to the saying of Elijah: and she, and he, and her house, did eat many days.” (1 King 17:8-15)
The great famine that Elijah prophesied would affect many lives, not just wicked King Ahab. When Elijah became hungry, and the ravens fed him no more, God provided another food source, a widow, who’s name is not mentioned. She didn’t have a storage shelter filled with food and water, she just had a great need. I always wondered what she thought when Elijah first ask her to give him some of the last of her food. She knew this was the last meal she and her son would eat before their death, and yet she gave. God kept his promise and supplied food for Elijah, the widow, and her son, and they lived. I wonder why God did not continue to supply Elijah with food through the ravens or some other way. Instead, He sent Elijah to a poor woman. It seemed that she would not be a likely candidate to provide food for anyone, but God graciously allowed this woman to become part of His plan. God caused the little that she had to accomplishing much.
WARNING!! Things are tough now, but be warned they will get tougher. The prices of everything are going up (except our paychecks). Our country, as a whole, is in a drought. With less rain there will be less food, which will drive up prices even more. There are so many people out of work, but will we give? You say ,“We have no way to pay the bills”, but the work of the Lord must go on. It takes money to keep the doors open at the church. People are dying and going to hell every minute.
“Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings. Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation.” (Malachi 3:8-9)
Fret not. All is not doom and gloom with God. God promises to take care of His children when we obey Him.
“Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.” (Malachi 3:10)
“I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread. He is ever merciful, and lendeth; and his seed is blessed.” (Psalms 37:25-26)
God is no respecter of persons. He took care of and greatly blessed the widow and her son; He’ll take care of, and bless us as well.
Prolong your life. If your not tithing, I challenge you to start. To you who are tithing, don’t stop.
GIVE.
Thank You
1 John 5:13
Posted in Just for Ladies by Phil Erickson with no comments yet.
JUST FOR LADIES – BY CAMILLE STAHL
Today’s Passage – 1 Samuel 15 – 16 (Click on the references to listen to the audio – Click here to view the passage from Blue Letter Bible)
(Second Milers also read – Matthew 3 – 4; Proverbs 2; Psalm 6 – 10
Scripture Memorization for March – John 1:1 – 18
Listen to this morning’s Scripture song – Isaiah 40:31
Read the “0402 Evening and Morning” devotion for today, by the late Charles Haddon Spurgeon.
A Bible Study of Women In The Bible
The Daughter of Pharaoh
“And there went a man of the house of Levi, and took to wife a daughter of Levi. And the woman conceived, and bare a son: and when she saw him that he was a goodly child, she hid him three months. And when she could not longer hide him, she took for him an ark of bulrushes, and daubed it with slime and with pitch, and put the child therein; and she laid it in the flags by the river’s brink. And his sister stood afar off, to wit what would be done to him. And the daughter of Pharaoh came down to wash herself at the river; and her maidens walked along by the river’s side; and when she saw the ark among the flags, she sent her maid to fetch it. And when she had opened it, she saw the child: and, behold, the babe wept. And she had compassion on him, and said, This is one of the Hebrews’ children.” (Exodus 2:1-6)
Today in the worlds eyes being important, and well known, is everything. But is it really? Pharaoh’s daughter was educated, powerful, and well known in her time. She had all that anyone could ever have. Wealth, servants, beautiful clothing…. Her father was the ruler of Egypt. He just commanded, that all Hebrew boys 2 years old and younger be drowned in the Nile River. When she saw the baby, the Bible says she had compassion on him. She was brave enough to disobey her father and kept the baby. She would later raise Moses in the house of Pharaoh. The education, and training, helped Moses in many areas of his life; and God used him in a mighty way.
Even with the important role she played, and what she did, no one knows her name. The Bible doesn’t say if she came to know the God of the Hebrews, but God placed the right woman in the right place at the right time.
How many people do you know that may be unsaved that performs good deeds? a coworker, a family member, your friends. God can use the unsaved to fulfill His will in our lives. God can use different people to fulfill His goals. However, He never forces them to have faith in Him.
There are many daughters of Pharaoh living among us. They are guided by God and doing His will, but lost. We see them and think all is well. They have it all, as Pharaoh’s daughter, and yet they have nothing.
“For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” (Matthew 16:26)
We can never take for granted that a person knows the Lord. There will be many “nice people” in hell. They must come to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. But how can they know unless we are out there telling them.
Will you reach out to someone today? Will you give them a track or invite them to church? We can all rejoice when they come to know Jesus too!
“Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.” (Matthew 9:37-38)
Thank You
1 John 5:13
Posted in Just for Ladies by Phil Erickson with no comments yet.
The Women at the Cross – JUST FOR LADIES – BY CAMILLE STAHL
Today’s Passage – Judges 18 – 19 (Click on the references to listen to the audio – Click here to view the passage from Blue Letter Bible)
(Second Milers also read – Revelation 1 – 3; Proverbs 26; Psalms 126 – 130
Scripture Memorization for March – 1 Corinthians 6:9 – 20
Listen to this morning’s Scripture song – Psalm 61:1 – 3
Read a blog post from today’s passage in Judges – “Speak Your Minds“
Read a great article by Pastor Paul Chappell – “The Price of Prayer“
Read the “0326 Evening and Morning” devotion for today, by the late Charles Haddon Spurgeon.
A Study Of Women Of The Bible
The Women At The Cross
“And there followed him a great company of people, and of women, which also bewailed and lamented him.” (Luke 23:27)
“Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene.” (John 19:25)
“And many women were there beholding afar off, which followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering unto him: Among which was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedee’s children.” (Matthew 27:55-56)
“There were also women looking on afar off: among whom was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James the less and of Joses, and Salome; (Who also, when he was in Galilee, followed him, and ministered unto him;) and many other women which came up with him unto Jerusalem.” (Mark 15:40-41)
Last week, we talked about the women who cried “Hosanna” and “Crucify Him”. We saw that these women were fickle. They were “the follow the crowd” group. This week’s women were “the faithful through good and bad” group. These women not only cried Hosanna when Jesus entered Jerusalem, but stood fast when all others had turned against Him. When other’s hearts were cold in anger, theirs were drowned in sorrow. The One who they were waiting to come and loved so dearly; the One who was being treated worse then any other guilty criminal they had ever seen. They stood by the cross at Jesus’ feet, not knowing if they too would be persecuted. Not even Jesus’ disciples, except one, was there; and another one stood “afar off”. These women were always close to Jesus and they weren’t going to leave Him now. They heard the mocking of the soldiers and the striking of the hammer on the nails. They turned their eyes downward as they took our Lord’s garments. Where were the crowds? Where were the people He healed? Only a hand full of women and one man.
As I sit here writing this blog, I think to myself how many times have I left the foot of the cross? Jesus has giving me everything I need and even things I didn’t know I needed. Even at times when I feel He is nowhere to be found, He is always right by my side.
“Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” (Hebrews 13:5)
He has shown me time and again, how much He loves me. He loves you, too. He loves us in a way we could never understand.
Ladies, look around you. The signs of the time are all around us. Men of God are being arrested in our world for preaching the Gospel. You can say the name of Jesus as a curse word, but not in worship. The list is unending.
We too must stand strong at the foot of the cross. We must take a stand for our Lord. If your not involved at your church, ask how you can help. Give Gospel tracts to people you meet. Read your Bible and pray everyday. Develop a close relationship with the Lord. We must teach our children, and encourage other women not to leave the feet of Jesus. Don’t be ashamed of our Lord and Saviour. When times get rough, and they will, stay at His feet.
Where will Jesus find you?
Thank You, and have A blessed Resurrection Sunday
1 John 5:13
Posted in Just for Ladies by Phil Erickson with 1 comment.